HUE
Tours and Vacation Packages
Explore HUE with Our Travel Guide and Tour Packages
Nestled along the banks of the Perfume River in Central Vietnam, Hue is a destination that radiates history, elegance, and tranquility. Once the imperial capital under the Nguyễn Dynasty from 1802 to 1945, Hue stands today as a cultural and architectural gem, offering travelers a glimpse into Vietnam’s regal past.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, the Complex of Monuments in Hue—including the Imperial City, royal tombs, pagodas, and ancient citadels—showcases a harmonious blend of traditional Vietnamese architecture and landscape design. These historic landmarks make Hue holidays not only scenic but deeply enriching for history enthusiasts.
Often included in many well-designed Vietnam tour packages, Hue is more than just a stop—it’s the soul of Vietnam’s cultural legacy. From ancient palaces to solemn temples, and from royal performances to authentic local cuisine, the city invites visitors to step into a slower rhythm, ideal for reflective and immersive travel.
For those seeking a thoughtfully curated journey, a reputable Vietnam tour company will often include Hue in its central Vietnam tours, giving travelers the chance to experience this “Imperial Heart” as part of their broader discovery of the country. Whether you're interested in exploring Vietnam’s dynastic history or savoring its elegant dishes, Hue fits beautifully into any Vietnam holiday package.
In the evenings, lanterns illuminate the riverside and gentle boat rides drift across the Perfume River, adding a touch of romance to the city’s historic ambiance. Hue history comes alive not only in museums and citadels, but in every detail—from the architecture to the people’s way of life. For a meaningful escape that blends heritage and serenity, Hue offers a timeless experience unlike any other in Vietnam.
Hue’s culinary culture is deeply rooted in its imperial past. Once the capital of the Nguyễn Dynasty, this city developed a unique style of cuisine that emphasized sophistication, presentation, and complexity—values that continue to shape its modern food scene. Today, many travelers choose Vietnam holiday packages or a curated Vietnam tour package that includes Hue holidays, specifically to explore this rich gastronomic heritage.
Hue’s dishes are often served in small portions but are big on flavor—showcasing meticulous technique and local ingredients. From riverside eateries to traditional garden houses, visitors on Vietnam tours are treated to an immersive taste of royal dining. Many Vietnam tour company itineraries also offer hands-on cooking classes for those who want to experience Hue’s culinary traditions up close.
- Bún Bò Huế (Hue beef noodle soup): Spicy beef noodle soup with lemongrass and shrimp paste, a must-try rival to pho!
- Cơm Hến (Mussel rice): Baby clams with rice, crispy pork skin, herbs, peanuts, and chili.
- Nem Lụi (Vietnamese pork lemongrass skewer): Grilled pork skewers on lemongrass stalks, wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs.
- Bánh Khoái (Hue crispy pancake): Crispy savory pancakes filled with shrimp and pork, dipped in peanut sauce.
- Bánh Bèo & Bánh Nậm (Water fern cake & flat steamed rice dumplings): Small steamed rice cakes topped with shrimp and scallion oil.
- Chè Huế (Hue sweet soup): A mix of sweet soups and desserts, with ingredients like lotus seeds, mung beans, and coconut milk.
- Royal Tea: A fragrant herbal blend traditionally prepared for the Nguyễn royal family. Often made with ingredients like jasmine, lotus stamen, and green tea leaves, this soothing tea is still enjoyed in Hue’s garden houses and traditional tea ceremonies.
- Sugarcane Juice: Pressed fresh on the street, this sweet and energizing drink is usually served with a squeeze of kumquat or a hint of ginger. It’s a perfect way to cool down during a day of sightseeing in Hue.
- Rượu Bàu Đá (Bau Da Wine): A strong, clear rice wine originally from Binh Dinh but popular throughout Central Vietnam. This traditional spirit is often sipped slowly in small cups and shared in festive gatherings or countryside meals.
- Lotus Tea: Made by scenting green tea with lotus flowers, this refined beverage is a symbol of purity and peace. It’s especially favored in Hue, where lotus blossoms bloom in abundance across royal lakes and pagodas.
Hue Travel Guide
Hue, the ancient imperial capital of Vietnam, offers travelers a captivating blend of cultural depth and scenic beauty. Situated in Central Vietnam, this historic city is an essential stop on many Vietnam tours, particularly for those fascinated by Hue history and royal heritage. With its impressive palaces, tranquil tombs, and elegant pagodas lining the serene Perfume River, Hue provides an atmosphere where time slows down, allowing visitors to experience a more poetic pace of life.
- Imperial City: Known for its ancient citadel and the Forbidden Purple City, the Imperial City offers a deep dive into Vietnam’s royal past and remains a highlight of any Hue tour.
- Thien Mu Pagoda: As Hue’s most iconic spiritual site, the 7-story Thien Mu Pagoda offers breathtaking views along the Perfume River and is an essential stop for any Hue holiday.
- Tombs of the Emperors: The majestic tombs of emperors such as Minh Mang, Khai Dinh, and Tu Duc each offer a unique glimpse into the grandeur of the Nguyễn Dynasty, making them must-see spots in Hue tours.
- Dong Ba Market: A lively, bustling market where visitors can taste local specialties and shop for traditional crafts, perfect for immersing yourself in the culture during your Hue tour.
- Perfume River: Dividing the city, the Perfume River is perfect for boat cruises, offering a peaceful and picturesque way to experience the charm of Hue during your Hue holidays.
- Thanh Toan Bridge: This charming covered bridge, surrounded by peaceful countryside, offers a serene escape from the city and is ideal for visitors seeking tranquility on their Hue tours.
- An Dinh Palace: Blending European and Vietnamese royal influences, the An Dinh Palace is known for its intricate murals and offers a fascinating cultural experience in Vietnam tours.
- Tu Hieu Pagoda: A place of peace and reflection, the Tu Hieu Pagoda is a spiritual sanctuary and the final resting place of Thich Nhat Hanh, offering a deep connection to Hue history.
The best time to visit Hue is from March to May, when the weather is mild, and flowers are in full bloom. This period offers the most pleasant experience for tourists exploring the rich cultural heritage of the city. If you're booking a Hue tour, this is the ideal season for comfortable sightseeing. However, it's advisable to avoid the rainy season from September to November when heavy rains can disrupt travel plans and outdoor activities, including exploring the royal tombs and the Imperial City.
Navigating Hue is easy and enjoyable. In the city center, cyclo rides are a popular, relaxing way to explore the Imperial City and nearby attractions. For a quicker option, electric shuttles can take you around the main sights. If you're venturing out to the Tombs of the Emperors or the Thanh Toan Bridge in the countryside, renting a bicycle or motorbike is highly recommended for a more flexible experience. Whether you’re taking a boat cruise along the Perfume River or biking through lush landscapes, these options will enhance your Hue holiday.
To make the most of your Hue tour, be sure to pack comfy walking shoes as the city's historical sites require a lot of walking. A hat and sunscreen are essential to protect yourself from the sun, especially when touring outdoor sites like the Tombs of the Emperors or the Perfume River. Don’t forget modest clothing when visiting pagodas and tombs, as dressing appropriately is a sign of respect in these sacred spaces.
In Hue, local etiquette is important when visiting spiritual and historical sites. Always remove your shoes before entering pagodas and temples, including the famous Thien Mu Pagoda. It's also respectful to dress modestly when visiting the Tombs of the Emperors and other sacred locations. This ensures that your visit to Hue is not only memorable but also culturally respectful, helping you fully embrace the essence of this ancient city.
Activities
Our pick: Spend 2 or 3 day for Hue tours to explore complex of monuments and Kings’ tombs, old palace and Hue Antique Museum. Take a boat trip on Perfume River and enjoy hot spring spa in rural area.
Slow biking inside city and nearby villages, join a boat trip on the Perfumed river.
Hub for heading North to the historical sites and war relics at DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) during the Vietnam War.
Hub for heading North to Phong Nha or Son Doong, the incredible longest cave in the world famous in blockbuster Kong Skull Island.
Stree food tasting, culinary tours, Ao Dai performance and wildlife discovery in Bach Ma national park.
Recommended Tours
Boat trip & Dinner on perfumer river
1 Day(s)
55
Sense the ancient beauty and romance of Hue city through boat experience along the Perfume river and enjoy the traditional music.
Discover Royal City In Hue
1 Day(s)
85
Hue Citadel is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top things to do in Hue. A day trip around Hue city give you a great chance to explore the former royal capital of Vietnam with its high stone walls and the refined palaces and temples.
The long way up
18 Day(s)
1589
Let's trace through prominent historical and cultural sites along the country, relax at breath-taking beaches at the best Vietnam's beach paradise in Mui Ne and Nha Trang then move on to hill resorts at the city of the enternal spring - Da Lat. Your full relaxation holiday is not only to explore beyond the beach on cultural excursions of Vietnam but also to simply kick back and relax amid stunning natural scenery in style and high comfort.