HUE
Hue, located on the banks of the Perfume River, is a city in central Vietnam known for its rich history and imperial past. With its majestic royal palaces, ancient temples, and scenic landscapes, Hue offers visitors a captivating blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hue is during the months of March to August when the weather is generally warm and dry, making it suitable for outdoor activities and exploring the city's historical sites. However, be prepared for occasional rainfall, especially during the later months of this period. It's also worth noting that the city can experience high temperatures and humidity, so it's advisable to plan your activities accordingly and stay hydrated.
How to Get There
There are several ways to get to Hue, Vietnam. Here are the most common methods of transportation:
By Plane: Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) is the nearest airport to Hue, located about 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the city center. You can fly into this airport from major cities in Vietnam, as well as from international destinations. From the airport, you can take a taxi or pre-arranged transfer to reach your accommodation in Hue.
By Train: Hue has a train station, making it easily accessible by rail. You can take a train from various cities in Vietnam, including Hanoi in the north and Ho Chi Minh City in the south. The train journey offers scenic views of the countryside, and the station is located in the city center, making it convenient to reach your destination in Hue.
By Bus: Hue is well-connected to other cities in Vietnam by an extensive network of buses. You can take a long-distance bus from major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or Hoi An to reach Hue. The bus journey duration and comfort level may vary, so it's advisable to choose reputable bus companies for a more comfortable experience.
By Private Car or Shuttle: Another option is to hire a private car or join a shuttle service to travel to Hue. Private cars or shared shuttles can be arranged from neighboring cities like Da Nang or Hoi An. This option offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to travel at your own pace.
Once you arrive in Hue, taxis, motorbike taxis (xe om), cyclos, and rental bicycles are available for transportation within the city.
Top 22 Attractions in Hue
Hue is a city rich in historical and cultural attractions. Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Hue, Vietnam:
Imperial Citadel (The Citadel): This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the centerpiece of Hue's historical landmarks. Explore the grand complex that served as the seat of Nguyen Dynasty emperors, featuring palaces, temples, gates, and stunning architecture.
Hue Royal Palace: Located within the Imperial Citadel, the Hue Royal Palace showcases the opulent lifestyle of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors. Explore the royal residences, ceremonial halls, and gardens to get a glimpse into the grandeur of the imperial court.
Hue National School: Visit the historic Hue National School, which played a significant role in Vietnam's education and nationalist movements. It served as a gathering place for intellectuals and activists during the early 20th century.
Thien Mu Pagoda: Located on the banks of the Perfume River, this iconic seven-story pagoda is one of Hue's most recognizable landmarks. Admire the elegant architecture, beautiful gardens, and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Long Chau Temple: Long Chau Temple is a serene and historic temple known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance, dedicated to the worship of the God of Prosperity and Happiness.
Huyen Tran Princess Temple: Pay a visit to Huyen Tran Princess Temple, dedicated to Princess Huyen Tran, a respected figure in Vietnamese history. The temple features intricate architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Tu Hieu Pagoda: Discover the tranquility of Tu Hieu Pagoda, a serene Buddhist temple located in a peaceful setting outside of the city center. It's known for its beautiful gardens, ancient trees, and serene atmosphere.
Thien An Hill: Climb Thien An Hill, located near Thien Mu Pagoda, to enjoy panoramic views of Hue and the Perfume River. The hill is home to several small pagodas and offers a peaceful environment for relaxation and reflection.
Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang: Explore the serene and grand tomb complex of Emperor Minh Mang, nestled amidst beautiful gardens, lakes, and ornate architecture. The tomb is a harmonious blend of natural landscapes and traditional Vietnamese design.
Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc: Visit the final resting place of Emperor Tu Duc, known for its tranquil setting and beautiful gardens. The tomb complex features pavilions, lakes, and a serene atmosphere.
Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh: Marvel at the unique architectural style of Emperor Khai Dinh's tomb, which blends traditional Vietnamese elements with European influences. The elaborate interior features intricate mosaic work made from broken ceramics.
Museum of Royal Antiquities: Located within the Imperial Citadel, this museum houses a collection of artifacts from the Nguyen Dynasty, including royal clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and historical documents.
Thuan An Beach: Located about 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the city center, Thuan An Beach offers a tranquil escape with its sandy shores, calm waters, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Lang Co Beach: Lang Co Beach offers a picturesque coastal retreat with its pristine sandy shores, turquoise waters, and stunning mountain views.
Bach Ma National Park: Located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Hue, Bach Ma National Park offers pristine natural landscapes, including lush forests, waterfalls, and panoramic mountain views. Enjoy hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities in this biodiverse park.
Hai Van Pass: Hai Van Pass is a breathtaking mountain pass that traverses the Annamite Range, offering panoramic views of the coastline and lush landscapes.
Perfume River: Take a boat ride along the Perfume River, named for the fragrant flowers that fall into the water during autumn. Enjoy the scenic views of the riverbanks, including temples, pagodas, and lush greenery.
Thuy Tien Lake Abandoned Water Park: For those seeking a unique and slightly eerie experience, explore the abandoned Thuy Tien Lake Water Park. Wander through the overgrown paths and encounter the hauntingly beautiful remnants of this former amusement park.
Hue Royal Theatre: The Hue Royal Theatre, also known as Duyet Thi Duong, is a beautifully preserved royal theater where traditional music and dance performances were once held.
Conical Hat Making Village: The Conical Hat Making Village allows you to witness the meticulous craftsmanship behind the iconic Vietnamese conical hats, known as "non la," and even try your hand at making one.
Phuong Duc: Phuong Duc is a rural village famous for its traditional bronze casting techniques, where skilled artisans create intricate bronze products using age-old methods.
Dong Ba Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Hue's largest market. Explore the bustling stalls selling a wide range of goods, including local produce, handicrafts, clothing, and street food.
Top Activities to do in Hue
Explore the Imperial Citadel: Spend time exploring the vast Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to discover the history and architectural wonders of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Cruise the Perfume River: Take a boat cruise along the Perfume River and enjoy the scenic views of Hue's landscapes, including pagodas, temples, and countryside.
Visit Thien Mu Pagoda: Explore Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue's most iconic landmarks, and admire its elegant architecture and serene surroundings.
Enjoy Hue Cuisine: Indulge in Hue's famous cuisine, known for its delicate flavors and royal influences. Try local specialties such as Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and Banh Khoai (Hue-style savory pancakes).
Take a Cyclo Ride: Experience a traditional cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxi) ride through the streets of Hue, allowing you to observe the city's daily life and landmarks at a leisurely pace.
Visit the Royal Tombs: Explore the royal tombs scattered throughout Hue, such as the tombs of Emperor Minh Mang, Emperor Tu Duc, and Emperor Khai Dinh, each offering unique architectural styles and serene settings.
Cycle to Thanh Toan Bridge: Take a bike ride to Thanh Toan Bridge, a beautiful covered bridge located in a rural setting. Experience the countryside charm and visit the nearby agricultural museum.
Join a Cooking Class: Learn to cook authentic Vietnamese dishes with a local cooking class. Visit a local market to select ingredients and master the techniques of Vietnamese cuisine.
Attend a Traditional Music Performance: Immerse yourself in the traditional music of Hue by attending a live performance at one of the venues in the city. Experience the melodic sounds of ancient instruments and captivating performances.
Visit Local Villages: Explore the surrounding countryside and visit traditional craft villages near Hue, such as Phuoc Tich Pottery Village or Sinh Village, to observe traditional handicraft production and interact with local artisans.
Hue Festival: If your visit coincides with the biennial Hue Festival, immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural extravaganza featuring music, dance, art, and performances from both local and international artists.
Hue Street Food Tour: Embark on a street food tour to taste a wide variety of local delicacies and snacks, guided by a knowledgeable food enthusiast who can introduce you to the best hidden food spots in Hue.
Hue Garden Houses: Explore the traditional garden houses of Hue, known as "nha vuon," which feature beautiful gardens, intricate architecture, and a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor spaces.
Hue Motorbike Adventure: Experience the thrill of a motorbike tour, where you can explore the outskirts of Hue, ride along scenic routes, and discover lesser-known attractions and landscapes under the guidance of experienced riders.
Tam Giang Lagoon: Take a boat trip to Tam Giang Lagoon, the largest lagoon in Southeast Asia, where you can witness the picturesque landscapes, observe the local fishing activities, and enjoy the tranquility of this natural gem.
Hue Traditional Martial Arts Performance: Attend a traditional martial arts performance in Hue to witness the grace, skill, and cultural significance of these ancient martial arts forms.
Hue Night Walking Street: Explore the lively Night Walking Street, where the roads around Pham Ngu Lao and Chu Van An turn into a pedestrian-only zone at night, offering a vibrant atmosphere with street performances, food stalls, and local vendors.
Bach Ma National Park: Venture out of Hue and visit Bach Ma National Park, known for its diverse ecosystems, lush jungles, and stunning waterfalls. Take a hike, explore the trails, and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Immerse yourself in the opulent world of the Nguyen Dynasty with a royal dinner in Hue. Indulge in an elaborate feast featuring meticulously prepared dishes inspired by imperial cuisine, served in a setting reminiscent of the grandeur of the royal court. Enjoy impeccable service, traditional music performances, and a taste of the flavors and traditions once reserved for royalty.
Best Shopping
Hue offers a variety of shopping experiences where you can find unique souvenirs, traditional handicrafts, and local products. Here are some of the best shopping areas in Hue:
Dong Ba Market: Dong Ba Market is the largest and most famous market in Hue. It offers a vibrant and bustling atmosphere, where you can find a wide range of products, including fresh produce, spices, clothing, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Don't miss the chance to explore the market's food section, where you can sample local specialties and snacks.
Hue Night Market: Located along the Perfume River, the Hue Night Market comes alive in the evening, offering a great place to shop and enjoy the local atmosphere. You can find an array of goods, including clothing, accessories, crafts, artwork, and souvenirs. It's a perfect spot for picking up lanterns, traditional Vietnamese clothing, or unique gifts.
Hue Craft Villages: Hue is home to several traditional craft villages, such as Phuong Duc Bronze Casting Village, Sinh Village for lacquerware, Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village, Kim Long Carpentry Village, and Ke Mon Ceramic Village. These villages offer an immersive experience where you can witness skilled artisans practicing ancient techniques and create exquisite products, preserving the city's cultural heritage.
Truong Tien Bridge Area: The area around Truong Tien Bridge, which spans the Perfume River, is a popular spot for shopping. You can find a range of boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops offering items like lacquerware, traditional paintings, silk clothing, and jewelry. Enjoy the riverside views as you browse for unique treasures.
Art Galleries and Boutiques: Hue is home to several art galleries and boutiques where you can find local artwork, paintings, and handicrafts created by talented local artists. These establishments showcase the artistic heritage of the city and offer a chance to purchase unique pieces of art.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Hue's nightlife may not be as vibrant as that of larger cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, but it still offers some enjoyable options to unwind and have a good time. Here's an overview of Hue's nightlife:
Bars and Pubs: There are a few bars and pubs in Hue where you can relax with a drink and socialize. These establishments often have live music performances, creating a lively atmosphere. Some popular choices include DMZ Bar, Brown Eyes Bar, and Café on Thu Wheels.
Night Market: The Night Market along the Perfume River is a popular spot to explore in the evenings. Here, you can find a variety of stalls selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, and street food. It's a great place to wander, shop, and try some delicious snacks.
Traditional Music Performances: Hue is known for its traditional music, and attending a traditional music performance is a delightful way to experience the local culture. Many venues in Hue offer nightly shows featuring traditional Vietnamese music and dance.
Cafés and Restaurants: Hue has a range of cozy cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a relaxing evening. Many establishments offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the pleasant weather and soak in the ambiance of the city while sipping on Vietnamese coffee or enjoying a delicious meal.
Cruise on the Perfume River: Take a leisurely cruise along the Perfume River at night and enjoy the city's illuminated landmarks and bridges. It's a peaceful and romantic way to appreciate the beauty of Hue under the night sky.
Nighttime Motorbike Tour: Join a nighttime motorbike tour to explore Hue's streets after dark. Riding through the city's illuminated streets and visiting popular attractions at night can be an exciting and memorable experience.
It's worth noting that Hue's nightlife scene is generally quieter and more relaxed compared to other cities in Vietnam. The city has a curfew, and most establishments close by midnight. However, this can be a positive aspect for those seeking a more laid-back and intimate atmosphere.
Local Cuisine
Hue's local cuisine is known for its distinct flavors, intricate preparation, and royal influences. As the former capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, Hue's cuisine reflects the refined tastes of the imperial court. Here are some highlights of Hue's local cuisine:
Bun Bo Hue: This iconic dish is a spicy beef noodle soup that showcases the bold flavors of Hue. The broth is rich and flavorful, often infused with lemongrass and shrimp paste, and served with thick rice noodles, tender slices of beef, pork, and various herbs.
Com Hen: Com Hen is a dish of baby clams served with rice. It features a combination of different textures and flavors, with the clams being cooked with fish sauce, chili, and herbs, and then mixed with rice, crispy pork rinds, peanuts, and aromatic herbs.
Banh Beo: Banh Beo are steamed rice cakes topped with savory ingredients such as dried shrimp, scallions, and fried pork skin. They are often served in small saucers and eaten with a special dipping sauce.
Banh Khoai: Banh Khoai is a crispy pancake made from rice flour and turmeric, filled with a variety of ingredients such as pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and mung bean. It is typically wrapped in lettuce leaves and herbs and dipped in a sweet and sour sauce.
Nem Lui: Nem Lui is a popular dish consisting of grilled pork skewers served with rice paper, fresh vegetables, and a special peanut dipping sauce. You assemble the ingredients into rolls, creating a flavorful and interactive dining experience.
Che Hue: Che Hue refers to a variety of sweet desserts and snacks. These colorful treats often feature ingredients like mung beans, glutinous rice, coconut milk, and fresh fruits. Che Hue can be enjoyed as a refreshing dessert or snack on a hot day.
Royal Cuisine: For a truly unique culinary experience, try the royal cuisine of Hue. These elaborate dishes were once reserved for the imperial court and showcase a combination of flavors, presentation, and attention to detail. Many restaurants in Hue offer royal-style menus that allow you to savor the taste of the past.
Hue's local cuisine offers a balance of spicy, savory, and delicate flavors, showcasing the region's culinary heritage. Exploring the local street food stalls, family-run eateries, and specialty restaurants is a must to fully appreciate the diverse and delicious cuisine of Hue.
When it comes to street food in Hue, there are a few areas where you can find a concentration of delicious and authentic local flavors. Here are some of the best areas for street food in Hue:
Dong Ba Market: As the largest market in Hue, Dong Ba Market offers a wide array of street food options. You can find stalls and vendors selling popular Hue dishes like Bun Bo Hue, Banh Beo, Banh Khoai, and more. The market is a bustling hub of culinary delights, especially in the morning and early afternoon.
Vo Thi Sau Street: Located near Dong Ba Market, Vo Thi Sau Street is known for its street food scene. Here, you'll find a variety of food stalls and small eateries offering local specialties like Banh Canh, Banh Mi, Banh Trang Tron, and other snacks.
Ben Nghe Street: Ben Nghe Street, also known as "Food Street," is a popular spot for street food enthusiasts. It is lined with numerous food stalls and vendors offering a diverse range of Hue's traditional dishes, such as Banh Loc, Nem Lui, Banh Uot, and Che Hue.
Pham Ngu Lao Street: This vibrant street in the city center is filled with restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors. While it's more known for its nightlife, Pham Ngu Lao Street also offers a variety of street food options, including Banh Xeo, Com Hen, and Bun Thit Nuong.
Truong Dinh Street: Truong Dinh Street is another popular spot for street food in Hue. Here, you can find street vendors selling a range of local delights, including Che Hue, Banh Trang Nuong (grilled rice paper), and Banh Mi.
Hue Night Market: Along the Perfume River, the Hue Night Market comes alive in the evening, offering a vibrant street food experience. You can find stalls selling a variety of local snacks, seafood, and desserts, making it a great place to sample a range of Hue's street food specialties.
Remember that street food is best enjoyed in the early evening when vendors are fully set up and bustling with customers. Don't hesitate to explore smaller alleys and side streets around these areas, as you may stumble upon hidden gems and local favorites.
Accommodations
Hue offers a range of accommodation options catering to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best areas in Hue to consider for your stay:
City Center (Pham Ngu Lao Street): The city center, particularly Pham Ngu Lao Street, is a convenient and popular area to stay in Hue. It's a bustling district with a wide selection of hotels, guesthouses, and budget accommodations. Staying in this area allows for easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions, including the Imperial Citadel and Perfume River.
Le Loi Street: Le Loi Street is another central location, dotted with hotels, guesthouses, and boutique accommodations. This area offers a vibrant atmosphere and is within walking distance of popular attractions like Trang Tien Bridge and Dong Ba Market.
Hue Riverside: Choosing accommodation along the Perfume River offers a serene and picturesque setting. Some hotels and resorts offer beautiful river views and easy access to popular attractions like the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda.
Nguyen Cong Tru Street: Located near the Imperial Citadel, Nguyen Cong Tru Street is a quieter area with a selection of mid-range and boutique hotels. It provides a more relaxed atmosphere while still being within reach of the city center.
Toa Kham Boat Station Area: This area, near Toa Kham Boat Station, offers a mix of accommodations ranging from budget guesthouses to upscale hotels. It's a convenient location if you plan to explore attractions along the Perfume River, including Thien Mu Pagoda and boat tours.
The Beach Area (Thuan An or Lang Co): If you prefer a beach getaway, Thuan An Beach and Lang Co Beach, located a short distance from the city center, offer a tranquil setting with a selection of resorts and beachfront accommodations.
Itinerary
Cultural Delights in Hue: A 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning:
Start your day by visiting the Imperial Citadel, the heart of Hue's historical landmarks. Explore the palaces, temples, and gardens while learning about the city's royal past.
Visit the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum within the Citadel to view a collection of artifacts from the Nguyen Dynasty.
Afternoon:
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Hue cuisine like Bun Bo Hue or Com Hen.
Take a boat cruise along the Perfume River to admire the picturesque landscapes and pass by iconic landmarks like Thien Mu Pagoda.
Evening:
Head to the vibrant Dong Ba Market and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere. Explore the stalls, try local street food, and shop for souvenirs.
Experience a traditional Hue Royal Court Music performance, a captivating display of traditional music and dance at a local venue.
Day 2:
Morning:
Journey to the outskirts of Hue to explore the Royal Tombs. Visit the magnificent tombs of Emperor Minh Mang, Emperor Tu Duc, and Emperor Khai Dinh, marveling at their intricate designs and tranquil settings.
Afternoon:
Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant or opt for a picnic in the gardens of one of the tombs.
Explore the charming Hue Garden Houses and learn about their unique architectural style and cultural significance.
Evening:
Join a guided Hue Street Food Tour to sample the city's culinary delights. Indulge in Banh Khoai, Banh Beo, Nem Lui, and other local specialties while strolling through the vibrant food streets of Hue.
Day 3:
Morning:
Venture to the outskirts of Hue and visit the nearby Craft Villages. Explore Phuong Duc Bronze Casting Village, Sinh Village for lacquerware, or Ke Mon Village for ceramics, where you can witness artisans practicing traditional crafts.
Afternoon:
Visit the Thien An Hill to enjoy panoramic views of Hue and the Perfume River. Explore the hill's small pagodas and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Return to the city center and visit the Thuy Tien Lake Abandoned Water Park for a unique and slightly eerie experience of exploring the remnants of this former amusement park.
Evening:
Indulge in a final dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Hue one last time.
Take a leisurely walk along the Truong Tien Bridge and enjoy the illuminated views of the Perfume River and the city's landmarks.
