Hue, often described as the Imperial City of Vietnam, boasts a history, culture, and natural tourism sites. Sitting on the south bank of the Perfume River, visitors of this destination can grab a rich understanding of the Vietnamese royal period as there are centuries-old pagodas, tombs, and palaces nearby. Hue attracts historically interested tourists and those who want to explore a calm and beautiful place. Below you will find a guide to Hue that includes the main attractions and exciting activities.
Places to Visit in Hue
Here’s a list of must-visit places in Hue for an unforgettable journey through Vietnam’s historical and cultural gems:
Imperial City
The Imperial City is the most significant symbol of Hue and a tremendous area that was the political, cultural, and religious part of the Nguyen dynasty. The Citadel comprises palaces, temples, and halls in the city’s center and is surrounded by a moat and broad double walls. The Vietnam War affected some of the constructions but have been rebuilt.
Guide to the Imperial City:
- Open: From 8:00 am to 5:30 pm daily.
- Travel Tip: It is always advisable to embark on a guided tour to have an understanding of the role that each of the structures played in Vietnamese royal history.
- Address: Huế in Thừa Thiên Huế Province.
Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh
It is an extravagant burial place, considered one of the most outstanding examples of Oriental architecture with a glimpse of European architectural craft. The inside of the tomb is lavished with mosaics and intricate carvings that make it one of the most marvelous royal burial chambers in the region.
Guide to Khai Dinh’s Tomb:
- Open: Daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Travel Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat, as the tomb is on a hillside.
- Address: Thủy Bằng, Hương Thủy, Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam.
Thien Mu Pagoda
Thien Mu Pagoda is Hue’s oldest religious structure and one of its most important ones. Seven stories tall, it stands on the eastern bank of the Perfume River. The pagoda has a long history and also represents the city's image where you can enjoy the fantastic view of the surrounding countryside. This is also the place where you can see a legendary car that was used during the Buddhist protests in the 1960s.
Guide to Thien Mu Pagoda:
- Open: Every weekday, from 6:00 am until 6:00 pm.
- Travel Tip: A more picturesque way of getting to the pagoda is by boat from the Perfume River.
- Address: Huong Long, Hue, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam.
Minh Mang Tomb
Easily one of the most magnificent and architectonically integrated royal mausoleums in Hue, Minh Mang Tomb, or Royal Tomb of Minh Mang, is filled with tombs, gardens, several lakes, and even forests. You would definitely feel you are in some secluded countryside of Vietnam after getting through the gate. Chen, the tomb’s layout is great because it combines natural aspects with the building.
Guide to Minh Mang’s Tomb:
- Open: From 7 in the morning up to 5 in the evening.
- Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and footwear because one gets to walk during the trip and take rounds in the enormous area.
- Address: Huong Tho, Thừa Thiên Huế – National Route 49, Vietnam.
Things to Do in Hue
Here are some exciting activities to make your visit to Hue even more memorable:
Dragon Boat Riding
Dragon boat trip along the Perfume River has become one of the most peaceful and delightful experiences in the locality of Hue. It is called ‘fragrant’ due to water that comes floating from nearby flower orchards. A boat trip offers beautiful and close-up views of the beautiful riverside of Hue and includes a visit to Thien Mu pagoda and several royal tombs.
Travel Tip: Boat rides in the evening give the best vantage view of the river and the scenery within the river.
Visit the Dong Ba Market
If one wants to be a touch with the local life, then it becomes compulsory to visit Dong Ba Market. Viethui market is the biggest one which is a wholesale and retail market – selling everything from vegetables and fruits to souvenirs and handicrafts of Hue. The lively food market here is worth a visit, especially for Bun Bo Hue – beef noodle soup and Banh Beo – steamed rice cakes.
Travel Tip: Visit in the morning and try bargaining for souvenirs.
Where to Eat in Hue
Hue is particularly famous for the royal food, which is quite elaborate, as is expected of food that stormed the emperor’s palace. Here are a few recommended places to enjoy local delicacies:
Les Jardins de la Carambole
This restaurant has a dainty appearance, and they serve dishes that come from Hue, together with some combination of France and Vietnam. It is right at the heart of town near the Citadel, so after a day of sightseeing, you can comfortably take a break and enjoy a good meal.
- Must Try: Banh khoai, the crispy Vietnamese pancakes for which this restaurant is particularly famous, and lemongrass chicken.
- Address: 33 32 Dang Tran Con, Hue City, Thua Thien – Hue Province, Vietnam.
Ancient Hue
Located in a wooden structure that has been revamped, Ancient Hue presents imperial dishes that used to be on the tables of the kings. The tranquility of the restaurant, coupled with the well-designed meals, makes this eating place properly royal.
- Must Try: Nem Cong cha Phuong (peacock-shaped spring rolls).
- Address: 104/47 Kim Long, Thua Thien Hue Province, Hue City, Vietnam.
Best Time to Visit Hue
Traveling to Hue can be best done between February, March, and April since the weather is quite warm and the skies often shine, which is perfect for taking pictures. The period from September to December is the wet period but the festivals and the scenery of Hue are worthy of a visit.
How to Get to Hue
Hue is easily accessible by various modes of transport:
- By Air: There is Phu Bai International Airport near Hue, which is only about 15 kilometers away from the city center. It also has frequent domestic connections originating from cities including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
- By Train: Hue is also among the essential train stations via the Reunification Express railway, which links Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
- By Road: You can also get to Hue by bus and car if you reside in nearby towns such as Da Nang, about one hundred kilometers from Hue.
Travel Tip: Traveling from Da Nang City to Hue City is probably one of the most picturesque experiences as the trains will cross the mountains and the sea.
What Travel Experts Say
The city of Hue is an essential destination for any cultural enthusiast of Vietnamese history. The place is tranquil, and the city provides an excellent opportunity to combine history tourism and nature exploration. Hue actually takes 2-3 days to explore its main sights comprising the royal tombs, pagodas, and indeed the ancient citadel. Taking a boat ride on the Perfume River is a must. It is impossible to overlook the royal food in this city, although most people associate it with imperial history.
FAQs
Is 2 days enough in Hue?
Yes, two days can be enough to explore the main attractions in Hue, especially if you're focused on visiting the historical and cultural landmarks. With well-planned days, you can visit the Imperial City, the royal tombs, and pagodas like Thien Mu, as well as enjoy a boat ride along the Perfume River. However, if you're interested in diving deeper into the local culture or want a more relaxed pace, you may find yourself wanting more time to fully absorb Hue's beauty and charm.
Do you need a tour guide in Hue?
While it's possible to explore Hue independently, having a tour guide can enhance your experience significantly. Hue is rich in history, especially with its role as the former imperial capital of Vietnam. A knowledgeable guide can provide detailed context for the sites you visit, such as the Imperial City and the royal tombs, helping you appreciate the historical significance and cultural nuances. For first-time visitors or those with limited time, a tour guide can also ensure that you don't miss any key attractions.
How many days is enough for Hue?
The ideal amount of time to spend in Hue depends on your interests. For most visitors, two to three days is enough to see the main sites without feeling rushed. In two days, you can cover the highlights, including the Imperial City, pagodas, and tombs. With three days, you could explore more off-the-beaten-path attractions or take a day trip to nearby destinations like the Bach Ma National Park or the coastal town of Lang Co.
Is Hue worth visiting in Vietnam?
Hue is absolutely worth visiting in Vietnam, especially if you are interested in the country's history and culture. As the former capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, it offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past. The city's architecture, including the Imperial City and royal tombs, is stunning, and the peaceful riverside atmosphere adds to its appeal. Hue also offers a distinct culinary experience, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. For those looking to explore beyond the bustling urban centers, Hue provides a more laid-back, culturally enriching experience.
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