Top 10 Things To Do in Hue: Beyond the Citadel Walls

Nestled along the picturesque Perfume River, Hue stands as a living testament to Vietnam's imperial legacy. As the former royal capital, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that captivate visitors from around the globe. Whether you're a history buff, food enthusiast, or cultural explorer, the countless things to do in Hue will keep you enchanted throughout your stay. 

Get ready to explore, to savor, and to fall in love with Hue. This guide from TravelThru will help you plan a great itinerary for your trip to the heart of Vietnam.

Best Things to Do in Hue

1. Explore Hue's Imperial City

For history buffs, exploring the Imperial City is an absolute must-do in Hue. This UNESCO World Heritage site, a sprawling walled palace complex, was the heart of Vietnam's Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945.

On a map of Hue, you'll see a distinctive square within a square, both surrounded by moats. The inner square represents the Imperial City, the former seat of the emperors, while the larger surrounding area is often referred to as the Citadel. Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, the Imperial City specifically designates the innermost palace grounds.

Here are some of the must-see highlights:

Ngo Mon Gate (Meridian Gate): The grand southern entrance to the Imperial City, featuring five imposing entrances and a two-tiered pavilion known as Ngu Phung (Belvedere of the Five Phoenixes). This is where the emperor would address his mandarins and where the last emperor, Bao Dai, abdicated in 1945.

Thai Hoa Palace (Palace of Supreme Harmony): Used for official receptions and important ceremonies, this majestic hall boasts a richly decorated interior with a stunning timber roof supported by 80 ironwood columns.

Dien Tho Residence: This was the residence of the Queen Mothers of the Nguyen Dynasty. Explore its beautiful courtyards, pavilions, and living quarters to learn more about the life of the royal women.

The Mieu Temple Complex: Dedicated to the worship of past Nguyen emperors, this complex houses temples for each ruler, altars, and ancestral tablets.

Forbidden Purple City (Tu Cam Thanh): Once the exclusive residence of the emperor, his consorts, and concubines, this innermost enclosure was largely destroyed during the wars. However, ongoing excavations and restorations are revealing its former layout and structures.

Entrance fee: 200,000 VND for adults and 40,000 VND for children (7-12 years old).

Open hours: 6:30 AM to 17:30 PM (Summer) | 7 AM to 17 PM (Winter).

2. Discover Royal Tombs

After exploring the Imperial City, many visitors to Hue chose to tour the royal tombs of the former emperors. While seven of these impressive mausoleums exist, most tourists focus on the tombs of Khai Dinh, Minh Mang, and Tu Duc. These three are not only the best-preserved but also the most easily accessible. 

Unless you're a dedicated Nguyen Dynasty enthusiast, exploring these three will provide a satisfying glimpse into this aspect of Hue's history. As they are located at least 5 km (3 miles) from the city center, you'll need to arrange transportation, such as a cyclo or Grab, to reach them.

Tomb of Khai Dinh

Unlike the more expansive and park-like setting of some royal tombs, the Tomb of Khai Dinh presents a more compact but dramatically elaborate experience. Its monumental design and intricate details are immediately striking. To reach the inner sanctum, you would have to climb a staircase adorned with dragon banisters and traverse a courtyard featuring stone honor guard statues.

At the summit, the crypt houses a life-size bronze statue of Emperor Khai Dinh. As the 12th Nguyen Emperor, he was the last to be honored with such a tomb in Hue. His successor, Bao Dai, marked the end of the Nguyen Dynasty's rule. History remembers Khai Dinh as a controversial emperor who imposed heavy taxes to finance the construction of this very tomb.

Entrance fee: 150.000 VND for adults and 30.000 VND for children (7-12 years old).

Open hours: 6:30 AM to 17:30 PM (Summer) | 7 AM to 17 PM (Winter).

Tomb of Minh Mang

Emperor Minh Mang's tomb is among the largest of Hue's seven royal tombs, renowned for its remarkable symmetry and serene natural setting. Spanning a forested 44-acre lot, the complex comprises around forty structures meticulously arranged along a central pathway.

Interestingly, unlike Khai Dinh's tomb, where the emperor's resting place is visible, the exact location of Minh Mang's tomb within this vast expanse remains a mystery. Minh Mang, the second emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty, ruled from 1820 until his death in 1841. He was a staunch opponent of French involvement in Vietnam and a strict adherent to Confucian principles.

Entrance fee: 150.000 VND for adults and 30.000 VND for children (7-12 years old).

Open hours: 6:30 AM to 17:30 PM (Summer) | 7 AM to 17 PM (Winter).

Tomb of Tu Duc

The Tomb of Tu Duc stands apart as the largest and most opulent of Hue's royal tombs. Uniquely, it was designed to function as both a luxurious residence and a final resting place for the emperor.

During his lifetime, Tu Duc, the Nguyen Dynasty's longest-reigning emperor (1847-1883), utilized the 30-acre complex as a retreat, complete with a manor, pine forests, pavilions, and a lake with a hunting island. This dual purpose explains the meticulous design and lavish scale of the tomb.

Entrance fee: 150.000 VND for adults and 30.000 VND for children (7-12 years old).

Open hours: 6:30 AM to 17:30 PM (Summer) | 7 AM to 17 PM (Winter).

3. Cruise Along the Perfume River

The most iconic way to experience the Perfume River is on a traditional dragon boat. These colorful, elaborately decorated vessels are modeled after the boats once used by the Nguyen emperors. Many dragon boat cruises include live performances of Hue folk music (Ca Hue). You can easily book a Perfume River cruise through your hotel, a local travel agency, or directly at the boat pier near Trang Tien Bridge.

Prices vary depending on the type of boat, the duration of the cruise, and the inclusions (e.g., meals, drinks, entertainment). Expect to pay anywhere from 100,000 VND for a basic boat trip to 500,000 VND or more for a luxury dinner cruise.

4. Immerse Yourself in Nha Nhac - Hue Royal Court Music

Step into the refined world of Vietnam's former imperial capital through Nha Nhac, a unique art form recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Meaning "elegant music," Nha Nhac served as the official soundtrack of the Vietnamese court from the 15th to the mid-20th century.

To enjoy the true Hue Royal Court Music, we highly recommend visiting Duyet Thi Duong Royal Theater. Located within the Forbidden City's southeast corner, it's the oldest theater in Vietnam. Performances take place twice a day at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Tickets are 300,000 VND per person (minimum 10 people per performance).

5. Take a Hue Cooking Class

If you love Vietnamese food, you've got to try a cooking class in Hue! This city is famous for its refined imperial cuisine, a unique culinary tradition that sets it apart. You'll learn the secrets behind those amazing Hue flavors and gain the skills to recreate them in your own kitchen. Trust us, this is one experience you won't want to miss!

6. Cycle Through the Tranquil Countryside

Hue stands out as arguably the best city for cycling in Vietnam, thanks to its relatively light traffic compared to other major urban centers. Many visitors enjoy leisurely cycling along the scenic banks of the Perfume River (Huong River) to the Citadel. Your two wheels can also take you to several temples located just beyond the city center. 

Many hotels offer complimentary bicycles, and affordable rentals are readily available downtown. For the truly dedicated cyclist, venturing out of the city to explore the tranquil countryside is highly rewarding.

Here are a few popular cycling routes around Hue:

• Thanh Toan Bridge to the Citadel: This relatively flat route takes you through picturesque villages, across lush rice paddies, and along the Perfume River, culminating at the Imperial Citadel.

   

• Tam Giang Lagoon: This route leads to the largest lagoon in Southeast Asia. It is home to many fishing villages, and you can take a boat on the lagoon to see more of it. You can even stop at one of the many seafood restaurants and have a feast.

   

• Thuy Bieu Village: This charming village, known for its pomelo orchards and traditional houses, is a great destination for a leisurely bike ride.

7. Explore Dong Ba Market

For a truly authentic taste of Hue, head to Dong Ba Market, the city's largest and most vibrant marketplace. More than just a place to shop, Dong Ba Market is a microcosm of local life, a bustling hub where you can immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, smells, and flavors of central Vietnam. Be prepared for a sensory overload as you navigate its labyrinthine aisles, packed with everything from fresh produce and local delicacies to clothing, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

8. ​​Experience Hue Cuisine

Get ready to fall in love with Vietnamese food all over again! Hue's culinary is a knockout, a delicious reminder of the city's imperial past. We're talking seriously flavorful dishes, artful presentations that are a feast for the eyes, and a blend of influences you won't find anywhere else. Your taste buds are in for a treat – here are the must-try dishes and experiences that'll make your trip to Hue unforgettable!

• Bun Bo Hue: A rich and aromatic broth simmered with lemongrass, chili oil, and other spices, is served with tender slices of beef, pork, rice vermicelli noodles, and a medley of fresh herbs. You can try it at Quan Cam (38 Tran Cao Van Street) or Bun Bo Hue Ba Phung (14 Nguyen Du Street).

   

• Banh Khoai: Made with rice flour and coconut milk, they are filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and served with a flavorful peanut dipping sauce. Lac Thien (6 Dinh Tien Hoang Street) and Hanh Restaurant (11 Pho Duc Chinh Street) are known for their excellent Banh Khoai.

   

• Com Hen: This unique dish features rice with tiny baby clams, peanuts, roasted rice powder, herbs, and spices. Look for street vendors specializing in Com Hen near the Trang Tien Bridge, or visit Com Hen Hoa Dong (64 Kiet 7 Ung Binh).

   

• Che Hue: Satisfy your sweet tooth with Che Hue, a delightful array of sweet dessert soups. From lotus seed and mung bean to tapioca and fruit, these colorful and refreshing treats are the perfect way to end a meal. We highly recommend giving this sweet a try at Che Hem (1 Kiet 29 Hung Vuong Street).

9. Thuy Tien Abandoned Water Park

For a unique and slightly offbeat adventure in Hue, venture to Ho Thuy Tien, an abandoned water park that has become a hauntingly beautiful attraction in its own right. Ho Thuy Tien was built in 2004 with hopes of becoming a major tourist destination. 

However, the park was never fully completed, and its doors were closed shortly after opening due to financial difficulties. Since then, it has been left to the elements, slowly decaying and becoming overgrown with vegetation.

While access is technically not allowed, there have been reports of a small "entrance fee" (around 10,000-20,000 VND) being collected by locals at the gate.

10. Bach Ma National Park

Bach Ma National Park, a former French hill station, encompasses over 40,000 hectares of natural beauty. Here, you'll discover excellent hiking trails, remnants of dilapidated French villas, cascading waterfalls, a designated campsite, and abundant wildlife. 

Trekking tours are the best way to immerse yourself in the park's lush forests. Several routes cater to different preferences, with the most scenic trails leading you past picturesque lakes and waterfalls.

Entrance fee: 65.000 VND for adults | 25.000 VND for children, students and elderly.

Things to Do in Hue at Night

11. Enjoy Hue Folk Songs on the Perfume River

Ever wanted to experience something truly unique? Then you have to try a Ca Hue performance on the Perfume River in Hue! Just imagine: the sun setting, the city lights twinkling, and you're gently cruising along the river. Then, the beautiful sounds of Ca Hue, the traditional folk music of Hue, fill the air. It's such a magical way to connect with the city's culture and history. Trust us, you won't forget it!

12. Explore Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street

For a fun night out in Hue, head to Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street. It's a pedestrian-only area on the south bank of the Perfume River, right by the Truong Tien Bridge. You'll find all sorts of cool stuff there – shopping, food, music, you name it. It's a great place to hang out, especially on weekends between 6 PM and 11 PM. 

Free Things to Do in Hue

13. Visit Thien Mu Pagoda

Dominating the banks of the Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda is one of Hue's most iconic landmarks. Often referred to as the Pagoda of the Celestial Lady, this historic temple complex spans over two hectares. Its most recognizable feature is the seven-story, 21-meter (69 ft) octagonal tower Thap Phuoc Duyen.

Legend tells of an elderly woman who appeared on Ha Khe Hill, prophesying that a Lord would build a Buddhist pagoda on that very spot. In 1601, Lord Nguyen Hoang, upon hearing this prophecy, ordered the temple's construction. 

While initially a simple structure, Thien Mu Pagoda underwent numerous renovations and expansions over the centuries. The iconic Thap Phuoc Duyen tower, for instance, wasn't added until 1844. Located about 3 km west of the Imperial Citadel, the pagoda can be easily reached by cyclo, Grab, or dragon boat.

Entrance fee: Free.
Open hours: All day.

14. Lim Wooden Bridge

Need a break from the hustle and bustle of Hue? Then take a leisurely stroll along the Lim Wooden Bridge, a charming pedestrian walkway that offers a peaceful escape from the city's buzz.

While not as ancient or historically significant as some of Hue's other landmarks, the bridge offers a pleasant and free way to enjoy the beauty of the Perfume River and experience a more local side of Hue. Plus, you can easily combine a visit to the bridge with a stroll along Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street, which is located nearby. 

15. Lang Co Beach

Just a short distance from Hue lies Lang Co Beach, one of the best beaches in Vietnam. This stunning 10-kilometer stretch of coastline boasts palm trees, crystal-clear waters, and a selection of excellent resorts. While it's approximately a 60 km drive from the city center, it's well worth the trip.

You can choose to spend a night or two at one of the resorts, enjoy a relaxing day trip, or make it a scenic stop on your journey between Hue and Da Nang, conveniently located just before the famous Hai Van Pass.

What to Do in Hue for a Day

If you only have one day in Hue, you can still experience its highlights, but be prepared for a fast-paced and immersive journey. This itinerary focuses on the must-see attractions, giving you a taste of Hue's imperial history and cultural charm.

Morning: 

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Start your day at the Imperial Citadel. Allow at least 3-4 hours to explore this vast complex. Consider hiring a guide to enhance your understanding of its history and significance.

Lunch:

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Fuel up with Bun Bo Hue. Head to a local eatery near the Citadel, such as Bun Bo Hue Ba Phung or Quan Cam, for an authentic and flavorful experience.

Afternoon: 

1:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Khai Dinh Tomb and Ming Mang Tomb.

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM: Make a stop at Thien Mu Pagoda, it's a beautiful and tranquil spot to soak in the late afternoon atmosphere.

Evening: 

6:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Sunset Cruise on the Perfume River.

7:30 PM Onward: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice. Afterward, you can explore the Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street for souvenirs or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Hue

The best time to visit Hue is during the dry season, which typically runs from February to August.

February to April is particularly pleasant, with mild temperatures and low rainfall. This is a great time for outdoor activities like exploring the Citadel and cycling in the countryside.

May to August can be hot and humid, but it's still a good time to visit if you don't mind the heat. This period also coincides with the Hue Festival (held in even-numbered years), a major cultural event featuring performances, exhibitions, and traditional ceremonies.

The rainy season runs from September to January, with heavy rainfall and occasional flooding, especially in October and November. While this period may not be ideal for outdoor activities, it can be a good time to visit if you're looking for lower prices and fewer crowds.

How to Get to Hue

By Plane

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Hue is by flying into Phu Bai International Airport (HUI), located about 15 kilometers south of the city center.

• Domestic flights: Several domestic airlines, including Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways, and Pacific Airlines, operate daily flights to Hue from major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.

   

• International flights: Currently, there are limited direct international flights to Hue. Most international travelers will need to connect through Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. There are some direct flights from cities like Bangkok.

After arriving at the airport, you can use the following airport transfer service to reach the city center:

• Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport. The fare to the city center should be around 250,000 - 350,000 VND. Make sure the meter is running, or agree on a price beforehand.

   

• Grab: The ride-hailing app Grab is also operational in Hue and can be a convenient and affordable way to get from the airport to the city.

   

• Private car: You can pre-book a private car transfer with TravelThru for a more comfortable and hassle-free experience.

By Train

Traveling to Hue by train is a scenic and memorable experience, especially the journey over the Hai Van Pass from Da Nang. Hue Railway Station is conveniently located in the city center.

You can book train tickets online through the official Vietnam Railways website, through travel agencies, or at the train station.

From Da Nang/Hoi An

Many travelers choose to combine their visit to Hue with a trip to Da Nang or Hoi An, as these cities are relatively close by.

Da Nang to Hue:

• Train: The most scenic option (approximately 2-3 hours).

   

• Bus: Frequent and affordable (approximately 2-3 hours).

   

• Taxi or private car: Convenient but more expensive (approximately 1.5-2 hours).

   

• Motorbike: Popular among adventurous travelers, offering stunning views along the Hai Van Pass (approximately 3-4 hours).

Hoi An to Hue:

• Bus: The most common and affordable option (approximately 4-5 hours).

   

• Taxi or private car: More expensive but faster and more comfortable (approximately 3-4 hours).

   

• Shuttle van: Some companies offer shuttle van services between Hoi An and Hue, often with stops at attractions along the way, like the Marble Mountains.

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With its impressive historical sites, delicious food scene, and diverse range of activities, Hue offers something for every traveler. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of the best things to do in Hue, from exploring ancient wonders to immersing yourself in local culture. 

Now it's time to start planning your own adventure. Book your flights, choose your accommodations, and get ready to experience the beauty of Hue firsthand.