Thua Thien Hue: Vietnam's Ancient Imperial Capital

What Makes Hue Worth Visiting in Vietnam?

Yes, Hue is worth visiting in Vietnam! Hue is a city full of history and culture. During the Nguyen Dynasty, from 1802 to 1945, it was the capital of Vietnam. This makes Hue very important for anyone who loves learning about the past.

The most famous place in Hue is the Imperial City. It was the home of the royal family and the center of power in Vietnam. Due to its historical significance, the city is currently protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hue is not only about history. It is also famous for traditional music, like the Hue Royal Court Music, and unique poetry on old buildings. The city has rich traditions that have been passed down for many years.

Today, Hue is still an important place in Vietnam. It is a center for culture, education, and science. Tourists visit to see its beauty and learn about Vietnam’s history. The city’s peaceful rivers and ancient buildings make it a special destination. So, if you love culture and history, Hue is a must-see!

The Perfume River gracefully winds through Hue, offering scenic views and a tranquil setting for exploring the city’s rich history and culture.

How to Get to Hue, Vietnam?

The distance between Hanoi and Hue is approximately 670 kilometers.

With this distance, there are several convenient transportation options available between the two cities.

• By flight: Flying is the fastest way to travel between Hanoi and Hue, with a flight time of around one hour from Noi Bai International Airport to Hue Airport
• By bus: Hanoi-Hue bus takes approximately 12-14 hours. Currently, there are numerous bus brands specializing in the Hanoi-Hue route, such as Queen Cafe Open Bus, Thuy Ngan Limousine Bus, and Camel Travel Bus,...
• By train: Opting for a safe train journey can provide a sense of comfort, especially for those prone to motion sickness. Moreover, you can enjoy the majestic mountains and tranquil countryside scenery. If traveling by train, the journey takes about 12-13 hours

You can easily combine a visit to nearby destinations like Da Nang and Hoi An or even venture farther to Quang Binh on your way to Hue. This way, you’ll experience central Vietnam’s rich diversity, from Da Nang’s coastal beauty to Hoi An’s charming ancient town, before arriving in Hue’s historic heart.

You might want to read about these destinations:

• Hoi An Travel: A Complete Guide
• The ultimate Quang Binh travel guide

Phu Bai International Airport serves as the main gateway to Hue, connecting travelers to Vietnam’s imperial city.

Hue's Weather and Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Hue is from January to April. During these months, the weather is cool, with temperatures around 20°C to 24°C. There is some light rain, but it won’t stop you from exploring the city’s famous temples and historical sites.

The rainy season in Hue is from September to December. It’s quieter, and hotels are cheaper, but expect more rain, especially in October and November. If you want to avoid heavy rain, it’s better to visit outside these months.

Hue Festival has cultural events all year, including traditional festivals, art, sports, and religious celebrations. The events are divided into four seasons. It starts on January 1st with a Calendar Ceremony and ends on December 31st with a Countdown Program.

The biggest event is the International Art and Cultural Festival in April. Other key events are the Lantern Festival in autumn, the Circus Festival in winter, the Food Festival in spring, and the Ao Dai Festival in summer. At the Ao Dai Festival, people wear traditional Vietnamese outfits.

Every autumn, the Lantern Festival lights up Hue with vibrant colors and cultural performances.

Top 11 unmissable things to do in Hue

1. Experience the Imperial City of Hue

The Imperial City of Hue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a large complex surrounded by a square fortress. The walls are 2 km long and 6 meters high, with a wide moat for protection.

Built by Emperor Gia Long and finished by Minh Mang, the city was Vietnam's capital from 1802 to 1945. It had palaces, temples, homes, and gardens. The Forbidden Purple City, where the emperor lived, was the most important part.

Over time, the Imperial City has suffered damage. The American War in 1968, especially during the Tet Offensive, destroyed many buildings.

Some have been restored, and work continues today. Walking through the site takes about 2 hours on your own or longer with a guide. Visitors can also enjoy traditional dance and music at the Royal Theatre.

Visitors can experience the Imperial City of Hue, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Vietnam's royal heritage.

2. Enjoy traditional Hue music on the Perfume River

The Perfume River is 80km long and flows through Hue, with small streams branching off throughout the city. In Vietnamese, it’s also called the Huong River, with "huong" meaning "perfume" or "incense."

There are many stories about how the river got its name. Some say it comes from the flowers that fall into the river in autumn, making it smell sweet. Others believe the name comes from the herbs poured into the river during festivals.

Along the river, you’ll find villages, temples, tombs, and parks. The water is green in the morning, turns yellow at noon, and changes to purple in the afternoon.

Take a boat trip to see the royal tombs and pagodas along the banks. The Imperial City, Minh Mang’s tomb, and Hon Chen Temple are also accessible by boat.

Two islands, Con Hen and Con Da Vien, protect the Imperial City from bad spirits. Con Hen is famous for its clams, while Con Da Vien was once home to tiger and elephant fights.

At sunset, take a walk along the river’s paths, surrounded by trees and flowers. Boats near Truong Tien Bridge can take you on a tour. You can even choose your own route.

For a unique experience, try a Ca Hue Cruise at night, with traditional music on the water. Or, enjoy a fine-dining dinner cruise with champagne as you release lanterns into the river.

Traditional Hue music on the Perfume River offers a peaceful experience with melodies inspired by Vietnam’s past.

3. Take photos at Thien Mu Pagoda and Tu Hieu Pagoda

Thien Mu Pagoda means "Heavenly Fairy Lady Temple." An elderly lady once appeared on the hill where the pagoda now stands. She told the villagers that a lord would come to build a temple for the good of the country. So, Lord Nguyen Hoang ordered the pagoda's construction and named it after her.

You can climb the tall Phuoc Duyen Tower to see the big bronze bell and a stone slab on the back of a giant turtle. Inside the temple, you’ll find beautiful artworks.

Nhat Dinh was a monk who became famous for caring for his sick mother. He prepared meat and fish for her, even though monks should not harm animals. Because of this story, Emperor Tu Duc named the temple "Tu Hieu," meaning "Filial Piety," a valued Buddhist principle.

Visit the temple at 10 a.m. or 4 p.m. to hear the monks chanting. Tu Hieu Pagoda was also home to Thich Nhat Hanh, a famous Buddhist monk and peace activist. He entered the monastery at 16 and lived there until he passed away in 2022.

Visitors capture stunning shots at Thien Mu Pagoda and Tu Hieu Pagoda, both iconic spiritual sites.

4. Explore the tombs of the Nguyen kings

The Nguyen emperors had wealth and power, and their tombs were full of stories. Did you know Tu Duc’s beautiful tomb was built using forced labor? It even caused a failed rebellion.

Khai Dinh loved luxury and taxed his people heavily to build his tomb, which took 11 years to finish. Duc Duc ruled for only 3 days before being jailed and dying from starvation.

The royal tombs in Hue, Vietnam are not ordinary. They are spread across the area, hidden in hills, guarded by stone warriors, and full of history. These tombs, belonging to Vietnam's last royal family, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Minh Mang’s tomb shows his love for traditional designs. Tu Duc’s tomb was his peaceful place to write poetry. Khai Dinh’s tomb mixes French and Gothic styles because of his love for French culture.

Gia Long’s tomb is hard to reach and rarely visited. Thieu Tri’s tomb is simple and partly in ruins. Duc Duc, Thanh Thai, and Duy Tan share a modest tomb due to their bad ties with French colonizers. Dong Khanh’s tomb has beautiful views and a touch of French influence.

The royal tombs of the Nguyen kings invite exploration, revealing Hue’s rich dynastic history.

5. Walk through Hue’s old town and visit Dong Ba Market

Hue City's largest marketplace is Dong Ba. It’s on Tran Hung Dao Street, near the Perfume River and Hue Citadel. The market opens from 4 am to 6:30 pm, so you can visit anytime. But if you want to see more goods, the afternoon is the best time to go.

If you buy something, be sure to bargain. Sellers often raise prices, so you should ask for a lower price. You can also check other shops first, as they sell similar things.

Dong Ba Market is huge! You might even get lost. A good place to start is at the “Bell Tower” building. On the third floor, you'll find colorful fabrics, while the lower floors have crafts like conical hats and ceramics. Don’t miss the local seafood and sauces on the first floor.

Lastly, Dong Ba is famous for street food. Try local dishes like Bun Bo (beef noodle soup) and Bun Hen (noodles with mussels). Even renowned chef Anthony Bourdain loved it!

A walk through Hue’s old town takes you to the bustling Dong Ba Market, full of local goods and flavors.

6. Taste Hue’s royal cuisine and try Huda beer

During the Nguyen dynasty, royal cuisine became a true art form. The emperors wanted their food to look beautiful and taste amazing. That's why Hue's food is often considered the best in Vietnam.

Have you heard of Bun Bo Hue? Anthony Bourdain called it the “best soup in the world.” This tasty dish has a rich broth made from pork and beef. People usually eat it for breakfast, but you can find it all day long.

After a long day, bun thit nuong is perfect. It features cold rice noodles topped with grilled caramelized pork and a special peanut sauce that’s unique to Hue.

Hue also has many types of banh or savory cakes. Banh khoai is crispy and comes with pork, shrimp, and egg. Banh loc is a chewy dumpling filled with shrimp. These small bites are great for sharing and can be found easily, especially in the touristy Phu Hoi area.

When it comes to beer, each region in Vietnam has its favorites. In Hue, Huda is the local beer everyone loves.

It was established in 1992 and has a name that combines Hue and Denmark, thanks to its brewing technology. After the trade embargo lifted in 1994, Carlsberg invested in Huda, and now it also produces other well-known beers.

Food enthusiasts delight in Hue’s royal cuisine, with dishes best enjoyed alongside a Huda beer.

7. Embrace the Serenity of Lang Co Beach

Have you ever visited Lang Co? The beaches here are relaxed and local, perfect for a chill day. But be careful—there are no flags to show safe swimming areas and no lifeguards around.

From August to October, surfers come for the great waves. If you want to surf, bring your board or rent one in Danang since there are no rentals here.

When you arrive from Hai Van Pass, Lang Co Beach is the first you’ll see. It’s 7 km long, mostly empty, with warm water and gentle waves. There are a few seafood restaurants and beach resorts if you want a lounger or a cocktail.

Just north is Canh Duong Beach, a 5 km crescent with clear water. You can find tents, cabins, and fresh seafood there. Beyond that, Loc Binh Beach is quiet and spacious, often feeling abandoned so that you can enjoy it all to yourself.

Finally, Ham Rong Beach is remote, surrounded by jungle and rocky formations. Remember to bring everything you need since there are few amenities.

Lang Co Beach draws visitors seeking serenity and breathtaking coastal views near Hue.

8. Visit local traditional craft villages

Hue has many traditional craft villages worth visiting. These villages show the culture and skills passed down through generations.

One famous craft is making conical hats. In villages like Da Le, Phu Cam, and Kim Long, you can see how these hats are carefully made, from picking the frame to polishing the final design.

Another well-known village is Thanh Tien, where colorful paper flowers are created, especially during Tet. In Thuy Xuan village, visitors can watch the making of fragrant incense sticks, a tradition kept alive for generations.

Bronze casting is another long-standing craft, with Duc ward being a great place to see this unique skill in action. Nearby is Sinh village, where traditional woodblock paintings are made, reflecting the peaceful countryside.

Phuoc Tich village, famous for its pottery, was once used in the royal court. Here, you can learn about the history of the village, see ancient houses, and watch pottery being made.

Artisans in Thuy Xuan Village create vibrant incense sticks by hand, preserving Hue’s cultural heritage with every colorful bundle.

9. Bike through the countryside and royal tombs

Explore Hue and its beautiful countryside at your own pace. Want to cycle through the city and nearby rural areas? The streets in the city are flat but busy, while the country roads are a bit hilly and quieter.

You can start by riding to the Imperial City and take a 2-hour walk around the Citadel. After that, cycle along the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda and climb the tower. Then, head south to the rolling hills and stop at Khai Dinh’s royal tomb before riding back to your hotel. This route is about 28 km.

If you prefer visiting royal tombs, you can cycle to the Tiger Arena, where tigers and elephants used to fight. From there, take a small road to Tu Duc’s royal tomb, one of the most stunning tombs of the Nguyen emperors.

Next, ride through peaceful villages to Thieu Tri’s royal tomb. Finally, head to Khai Dinh’s tomb, known for its mix of Eastern and Western styles, before returning to the city center. This route is about 24 km.

Renting a bike in Hue is simple. You can find bright yellow bikes at public rental stations along the Perfume River and near the Imperial City. Just download the Hue Smart Bike app to get started!

Cyclists enjoy scenic countryside paths that pass by the grand tombs of former royalty.

10. Take part in activities at Bach Ma National Park

Bach Ma National Park is huge, covering almost 37,500 hectares. It has around 1,700 species of animals and 2,300 types of plants. The best time to visit is in March and April, when the rhododendrons bloom.

Climb to Vong Hai Dai, the highest point at 1,448 meters, for amazing views of mountains, valleys, beaches, and even Hue City.

Afterward, hike to Ngu Ho, a series of five lakes, perfect for a picnic. The third lake has a beautiful waterfall that shines in the sun.

Then, visit Do Quyen Waterfall, named after the rhododendron flowers, or head to Truot Falls, famous for its natural water slide.

If you have more time, drive to Truc Lam Zen Monastery at the foot of Linh Son Mountain. Explore the ancient Buddhist site, or sit and meditate with the peaceful sounds of bells and incense filling the air.

Outdoor lovers can dive into nature with exciting activities at Bach Ma National Park.

11. Learn about Vietnam’s history at the DMZ

The Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) was a no-war area that ran along the former border of North and South Vietnam.

It stretched from the Laotian border to the coast, following the Ben Hai River, with 5 kilometers of land on each side. Many fierce battles happened here during the American War.

Now, the area is used for rubber and coffee farms, and most war signs are gone since military bases were destroyed when the Americans left.

Visitors can still see monuments for local war heroes and Truong Son National Cemetery, the largest war cemetery in Vietnam. There’s also a small museum with war artifacts and another one about the Vinh Moc Tunnels.

At the DMZ, history buffs get a deeper grasp of Vietnam's past by learning about important events.

Where to Stay in Hue: Top Picks for Every Traveler

Hue offers many great places for travelers to stay, from budget-friendly accommodations to luxury hotels.

For a luxury experience, you can choose the Anhill Boutique Hotel, a wellness retreat with a pool and zen garden. Hotel Pilgrimage Village is another option, providing a beautiful spa in the quiet countryside. Melia Vinpearl Hue, the tallest hotel in the city, gives you stunning views of the Perfume River.

If you’re looking for mid-range options, Villa Louise Beach & Spa is a charming spot with ocean views. Kawara My An Onsen Resort offers a Japanese-style experience with modern rooms and relaxing spa treatments.

For budget-friendly stays, try Hue Eco Homestay, which focuses on recycling. Pinehill Tu Hieu Homestay has cozy rooms near Tu Hieu Temple. EMM Hotel Hue features stylish accommodations with a pool and garden. Lastly, Hue Sweethouse 2 Homestay offers clean, comfy rooms right in the heart of Hue.

No matter your budget, you’ll find a great place to stay in Hue!

Hue Foodie Guide: Best Restaurants for Local Specialties

Thừa Thiên Huế is famous for its unique and flavorful dishes, with a rich culinary tradition that showcases the city's royal heritage and diverse ingredients.

Bánh lọc, bánh lá, bánh bèo

Bánh bèo, bánh nậm, and bánh lọc are tasty dishes from Huế, often served together and known as "royal cakes." Bánh bèo is a small, white rice and tapioca cake topped with shrimp, pork, and fried onions, eaten with a spoon and fish sauce.

Bánh nậm is a flat cake wrapped in banana leaves, filled with ground pork and shrimp, also topped with fish sauce. Bánh lọc has a shrimp and pork filling wrapped in tapioca and banana leaves, served with a stronger fish sauce. These delicious treats are must-tries when visiting Huế!

Bánh lọc, bánh lá, and bánh bèo are three well-liked local delicacies that highlight Hue's culinary variety and are enjoyed by tourists.

Bún bò Huế

Bún bò is a famous noodle soup from central Vietnam. It usually has beef brisket, oxtail, and pork, along with herbs like coriander and basil. The broth is made with lemongrass and spices, and served over vermicelli noodles with lime and shrimp paste.

You can find it all over Huế, like at Bún Bò Huế Bà Rớt, popular for breakfast or dinner. Late-night spots like Bún Bò Đêm Bà Ty add to the fun. Wherever you go, don’t miss trying bún bò in Huế!

Foodies savor the famous bún bò Huế, a delicious beef noodle soup that is a specialty of the region.

Bánh ép Huế

Bánh ép is a tasty snack from Thuận An beach near Huế. It’s a warm rice-flour pancake filled with herbs and mango slices, then dipped in fish sauce.

This fun street food is perfect for sharing with friends, especially for students who love affordable snacks. Vendors gather in certain streets, and Bánh Ép Chị Huệ is a popular spot near Vọng Cảnh hill, where you can enjoy great views too!

Many locals enjoy bánh ép Huế, a delightful dish made with rice flour and filled with tasty ingredients.

Cơm hến, bún hến

Cơm and bún mean rice and vermicelli noodles, but hến (tiny clams) make this Huế dish special. It includes starfruit, green mango, pork rind, peanuts, and fresh herbs.

Spicy pastes at the bottom add unique flavor. Vendors sell cơm hến everywhere, mainly for snacks. Hến Island is the best place to try it. Despite development threats, it still feels charming and peaceful.

The meals cơm hến and bún hến, which highlight Hue's seafood selection, are enjoyed by diners.

Bánh canh Nam Phổ

Bánh canh Nam Phổ is a special dish loved in Huế but not well-known outside the province. The noodles are cut smaller and served with crab and pork meatballs in a thick, orange broth. Green onions add a nice touch.

You can find it at places like Quán Thuý, which has been serving it for over 28 years, or Quán Hoà, a popular spot in the southwest. More places could bring this tasty dish to even more people!

Bánh canh Nam Phổ is a classic noodle dish with a thick broth that culinary explorers attempt.

Chè - Vietnamese sweet soup

Dessert isn’t big in Vietnamese food, but chè is a popular sweet snack. Huế is famous for its many types of chè, like banana, green bean, and sweetcorn. Street vendors have pots ready, and you can pick one flavor or mix several in a cup, often with coconut and condensed milk.

Everyone has a favorite chè. One popular choice is chè khoai mì, a chewy cassava ball that’s delicious but filling. For something unique, try chè bột lọc heo quay, which has roast pork in it. It sounds strange, but many enjoy it.

Dessert lovers treat themselves to chè, a sweet Vietnamese dessert soup that comes in various flavors and textures.

Salt coffee

Cà phê muối means "salt coffee." At first, the name might sound odd, but the taste is like salted caramel or a chocolate brownie. It’s a delightful treat for both coffee lovers and those who usually don't drink coffee.

This drink is made with a creamy, sweet mix served in the cup. Once the coffee filters in from above, give it a good stir and add ice if you want it cold. Sip it slowly to really enjoy the flavors—you might find yourself wanting more!

The strong flavor of salt coffee, a distinctive beverage that gives coffee lovers a savory twist, is experienced by coffee lovers.

How to Get Around Thua Thien Hue Like a Local

Getting around Hue is easy and fun! Here are some local ways to explore the city.

• By boat: The Perfume River is a key part of Hue. Traditional Dragon boats offer a scenic ride. You can choose single boats for up to 8 people or double boats for up to 30. Enjoy the views, listen to Hue folk songs, and release flower lanterns. Boat rentals vary by type and route
• By cyclo: Cyclos are three-wheeled cycles with a driver. They are a charming way to see the inner city. You can find them near hotels or along the river. The price is about 80,000 VND for 30 minutes, but it’s best to negotiate before you ride
• Walking: Walking is a great way to explore. A popular route is from the city center to the Imperial City. You can also join a street food tour to taste local treats
• By car or taxi: If traveling with family, consider booking a private car. Taxis are available from companies like Mai Linh and Thanh Do
• By motorbike: Motorbike taxis are common, but not as many as in larger cities. Renting a motorbike is also a good option, costing around 100,000-150,000 VND per day
• By bicycle: Renting a bicycle is a fun way to see the countryside. Rentals are usually around 50,000-80,000 VND per day
• By bus: Public buses are a budget-friendly choice, with routes covering the city and surrounding areas. A bus ride costs only 4,000-5,000 VND

With these options, getting around Hue is easy and enjoyable!

Tourists can take a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River for a picturesque view of Hue's landscape.

Do’s and Don’ts in Hue: A Quick Cultural Guide

Do’s:

• Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas: These sacred places are considered to be holy ground. Showing respect for the local culture by dressing modestly is a sign of good manners
• Visit local artisans: Check out traditional craft shops and support local artisans by buying handmade goods, like conical hats or silk products
• Participate in a cooking class: Join a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Hue dishes. It’s a fun way to dive deeper into the local cuisine
• Explore the surrounding countryside: Rent a bicycle and take a ride through the picturesque countryside to enjoy the fresh air and stunning landscapes
• Engage with locals: Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with locals. They are often friendly and willing to share stories about their city
• Visit during festivals: If possible, plan your trip around local festivals, like the Hue Festival, to experience vibrant performances and celebrations
• Use sunscreen and stay hydrated: Hue can be hot and sunny, so wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water to stay comfortable while exploring

Don’t:

• Don’t rush: Take your time to enjoy the sights and sounds. Hue is known for its relaxed pace, so savor every moment
• Avoid loud behavior: Keep noise levels down, especially in temples and quieter areas. This shows respect for local customs and traditions
• Don’t bargain too aggressively: While it’s common to negotiate prices in markets, be fair and respectful. Remember, the vendors rely on these sales for their livelihood
• Avoid littering: Keep the city clean by disposing of trash properly. Hue’s beauty should be preserved for everyone to enjoy

A Must-try Itinerary for 3 Days in Hue

A 3-day trip to Hue is a perfect way to explore the city's rich history and culture. Each day offers unique experiences that highlight the best of this beautiful city. Here’s a must-try itinerary to make the most of your visit.

Day 1: Start your trip at the Imperial City, exploring its rich history and stunning architecture. Next, visit Dong Ba Market to sample local snacks and shop for souvenirs. End your day at Thien Mu Pagoda, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere by the Perfume River.

Day 2: Discover the Royal Tombs, marveling at the elaborate designs. Take a relaxing Dragon Boat cruise along the river, then admire the charming French colonial architecture in the city.

Day 3: Enjoy a day trip to Bach Ma National Park for hiking and stunning views, or explore the historic DMZ for a glimpse into Vietnam’s past.

Adventure Awaits

Our Hue travel guide has shown you the beauty and history of this unique city. With its stunning sights and rich culture, Hue is a perfect destination for your next adventure. Whether you're exploring the Imperial City or relaxing by the Perfume River, there's so much to discover.

Are you excited to plan your trip to Hue now?

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