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Overview

Itinerary

Included

must-try

HUE CITY Tour

Imperial City | Thien Mu Pagoda | The Emperors’s Tombs

 Starting from 100 $/person | Dual Rider (tax inclusive)

Inclusions

• Private Car
• Airport Transfers
• Accommodation in Hotels
• Delcious Food
• Experienced Trip Leader

Highlights Included

• experience local culture
• experience being a farmer
• Sightseeing

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Your Ultimate Hue City Tour Guide: Discover the Dreamy Ancient Capital & A Journey Back to Heritage

Welcome to Hue, the serene ancient capital, where poetic verses, folk songs, and the echoes of a faded imperial dynasty still resonate in the sunset of Vietnamese history. Nestled gracefully alongside the romantic Perfume River, embraced by majestic mountains and lush green gardens, Hue is not merely a city but a living museum of Vietnam’s rich history and culture. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its Complex of Hue Monuments, a Hue City Tour is more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s a unique journey through time. It transports you back to golden palaces, solemn royal tombs, and ancient pagodas deeply marked by Buddhist traditions, offering an unparalleled experience of the final monarchy’s power and grandeur.

At centralvietnamtour.com, we are proud to be your trusted companion, providing insightful and helpful information to help you plan your perfect Hue City Tour. From its unique architecture and refined royal cuisine to the slow, peaceful pace of local life, Hue promises unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. Let’s explore every corner of this dreamy ancient capital together!

1. Best Time to Enjoy Your Hue City Tour

Choosing the right time is crucial for a comfortable and complete Hue City Tour. Hue, influenced by a tropical monsoon climate, has distinct weather characteristics that offer different experiences depending on the season.

Dry Season (February to August): The Ideal Time for Your Hue City Tour

This period is preferred by many travelers for their Hue City Tour because the weather is generally dry and sunny, perfect for visiting outdoor historical sites.

• February – April (Spring/Early Summer): Highly Recommended!

  This is the golden time to visit Hue. The weather is incredibly pleasant, cool, with little rain, and average temperatures ranging from 20∘C to 28∘C (68∘F to 82∘F). The sun isn’t too harsh, making it ideal for walking through the Imperial City, exploring tombs, or cruising the Perfume River.

• May – August (Summer): Hot but Still Appealing

  During this period, Hue enters its peak summer season, with temperatures that can be quite high, ranging from 30∘C to 38∘C (86∘F to 100∘F), sometimes accompanied by the dry, hot “Lao winds” characteristic of Central Vietnam. However, it’s still a popular choice for visitors who want to enjoy the summer sun, combining their Hue City Tour with trips to nearby beaches like Lang Co or even traveling to Da Nang to visit My Khe Beach—one of the world’s most beautiful beaches in Da Nang as voted by Forbes. This period coincides with school holidays, so popular tourist spots may be more crowded.

Wet Season (September to February): A Poetic and Romantic Hue City Tour

Hue’s rainy season brings its own unique beauty, making the ancient capital more contemplative, ancient, and romantic. However, travelers need to be well-prepared for rain and high humidity.

• September – November (Heavy Rainy Season): Be Prepared

  This is when Hue is strongly affected by the Northeast monsoon and typhoons from the East Sea, often leading to prolonged heavy rains and sometimes flooding. Temperatures begin to drop, ranging from 20∘C to 25∘C (68∘F to 77∘F).  Despite the rain, Hue’s rainy scenery carries a lingering melancholy, perfect for those who love quiet spaces, enjoy coffee, and seek contemplation. Visiting Hue in the rain will leave a lasting impression that you won’t forget.

• December – January (Cold and Humid Winter): Quite Unique

  The weather during this period is quite cold and humid, with temperatures potentially dropping to 15∘C to 20∘C (59∘F to 68∘F), sometimes with deep cold spells. This is an excellent time to experience a completely different Hue, with fewer tourists, and to deeply feel the “poetic essence” of the ancient capital. It’s particularly suitable for visitors from countries with colder climates, such as Europe or Northern India.

Our Recommendation for Your Hue City Tour: For the best weather and outdoor activities, plan your trip between February and April. If you don’t mind the summer heat and want to combine it with beach activities, May to August is a good choice. If you seek a contemplative, romantic, and peaceful Hue, consider the rainy season from September to February, but always be ready for sudden showers.

Itinerary

2. Suggested 3-Day Hue City Tour Itinerary: Immerse Yourself in Heritage & Cultur

Note: Please keep in mind that this is only a suggested itinerary, ideal for those who have more time and wish to explore local life and activities in depth. Most Tours are customized based on your available time and budget. Feel free to leave your information — we’ll be happy to create a personalized itinerary just for you!

Day 1: Exploring the Imperial City of Hue – The Heart of the Ancient Capital

Morning (Arrival & Check-in): Arrive at Phu Bai Airport (HUI) or Hue Railway Station. Transfer to Hue city center (approximately 30-45 minutes from the airport, 10-15 minutes from the station) and check into your hotel/homestay. Settle in and enjoy a light breakfast of the famous Hue Beef Noodle Soup (Bún Bò Huế) at a local eatery nearby.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch with characteristic Hue dishes at a restaurant near the Imperial City area.

Afternoon (Hue Imperial City – The Citadel):

• Hue Imperial City (Đại Nội Kinh Thành Huế): Dedicate the entire afternoon to exploring the Hue Imperial City, a massive and majestic architectural complex. You’ll pass through the Ngo Mon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, the Forbidden Purple City (the exclusive area for the emperor and royal family), The Mieu Temple, Hien Lam Cac Pavilion, and the Nine Dynastic Urns. Imagine the golden era of the Nguyen Dynasty as you walk through each palace and gate. This is the heart and main highlight of any Hue City Tour.
• Hue Royal Antiquities Museum: Located within the Imperial City grounds, this museum displays thousands of precious artifacts from the Nguyen Dynasty, helping you gain a deeper understanding of royal culture and history.

Evening (Royal Court Music Performance & Perfume River Cruise):

• Enjoying Hue Royal Court Music (Nhã nhạc cung đình Huế): This is a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage. You can enjoy a Nhã nhạc performance at Duyet Thi Duong in the Imperial City or on dragon boats cruising the Perfume River. The delicate sounds of traditional instruments and royal singing will transport you back to ancient times.
• Perfume River Cruise: Rent a dragon boat and leisurely cruise along the poetic Perfume River in the evening. Admire Truong Tien Bridge sparkling with lights and enjoy the riverside scenery under the moonlight. This is an essential romantic experience on your Hue City Tour.

Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant serving Hue royal cuisine or explore Hue’s street food at the night market.

Day 2: Majestic Tombs & The Spiritual Beauty of the Ancient Capital

Morning (Exploring Royal Tombs):

• Minh Mang Tomb (Lăng Minh Mạng): Start your day with a visit to Minh Mang Tomb, one of the most beautiful and harmonious royal tombs in Hue, perfectly integrated with nature. The tomb’s architecture is majestic and solemn, blending seamlessly with the surrounding rivers and greenery.
• Khai Dinh Tomb (Lăng Khải Định): Continue to Khai Dinh Tomb, a unique architectural masterpiece blending Vietnamese classical and European/Chinese styles. The tomb boasts a grand, opulent exterior with intricate mosaic details made of ceramic and glass. These two tombs offer completely different architectural styles, giving you a multifaceted view of Nguyen Dynasty tomb construction art.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the tombs or return to the city center.

Afternoon (Thien Mu Pagoda & Thuy Xuan Incense Village):

• Thien Mu Pagoda (Chùa Thiên Mụ / Linh Mụ Pagoda): The oldest and most sacred pagoda in Hue, perched on Ha Khe Hill, overlooking the Perfume River. Thien Mu Pagoda, with its seven-story Phoc Duyen Tower, has become a symbol of Hue. Stroll through the pagoda grounds, listen to the ringing of the pagoda bell, and learn about its long history of Buddhism. This is a tranquil and serene destination on your Hue City Tour.
• Thuy Xuan Incense Village (Làng Hương Thủy Xuân): After Thien Mu Pagoda, visit Thuy Xuan Incense Village, a famous traditional incense-making village. You’ll witness colorful bundles of incense drying in the sun, learn about the manual incense-making process, and can purchase incense bundles as souvenirs.

Evening (Hue Street Food & Garden Cafes):

• Spend the evening exploring Hue’s renowned street food and snacks like Banh Bot Loc, Banh Nam, Banh Ram It, Nem Lui, etc., at small roadside eateries or Dong Ba Market.
• Relax at a peaceful garden cafe, savoring Hue coffee and observing the city’s nightlife.

Day 3: Discovering Natural Beauty & Local Cuisine

Morning (Vong Canh Hill & Tay Ho Conical Hat Village):

• Vong Canh Hill (Đồi Vọng Cảnh): Start your day with a trip to Vong Canh Hill, a small hill offering a stunning panoramic view of the poetic Perfume River winding through lush green hills and ancient gardens. From here, visitors can gaze far into the distance to see ancient orchards, moss-covered roofs, and tombs hidden among the greenery. Sunrise or sunset is the ideal time to visit Vong Canh Hill, offering peaceful moments and beautiful photo opportunities.
• Tay Ho Conical Hat Village (Làng Nón Tây Hồ): Continue your journey to Tay Ho Conical Hat Village, one of the oldest traditional villages specializing in making conical hats (nón lá). You’ll witness firsthand the intricate process of creating a delicate conical hat, from selecting leaves and weaving the frame to embroidering elaborate patterns.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a famous restaurant specializing in Hue’s unique vegetarian cuisine, for which the city is well-known.

Afternoon (Dong Ba Market & Souvenir Shopping):

• Dong Ba Market (Chợ Đông Ba): Dedicate the afternoon to exploring Dong Ba Market, Hue’s largest and oldest market. This is where you can find everything from local specialties (sesame candy, sour shrimp), clothing, handicrafts, to tempting street food. Practice your bargaining skills!
• Souvenir Shopping: Shop for characteristic Hue products like conical hats, Ao Dai, embroidered goods, Bat Trang ceramics, or traditional candies and preserves as gifts for family and friends after your Hue City Tour.

Evening (Farewell Dinner & Departure):

• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant along the Perfume River, savoring your favorite Hue dishes.
• Transfer to Phu Bai Airport or Hue Railway Station for your departure, concluding your memorable Hue City Tour.

What's Inclusion

• Transportation
• Professional and friendly English-speaking guide
• Meals: 3 breakfasts; 2 lunches: Asian set menu & buffet (We can offer vegetarian food, halal food, or any special dietary requirements upon request. Simply let our sales team know your preferred food option)
• All entrance fees for the sites mentioned in the tour itinerary
• Hotels with good locations, comfortable, and well-equipped rooms

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CentralVietnamTour.com: Your Partner in Discovery

We are committed to making your trip not just a vacation, but a transformative journey. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Tailored Experiences: Your journey, your way. Whether you’re passionate about history, crave culinary delights, love outdoor adventures, or simply want to unwind, we personalize every detail of your tour to match your unique interests and preferences.
• Local Immersion: We work closely with local communities, from seasoned guides to family-run businesses, ensuring you get authentic experiences while supporting the local economy.
• 24/7 Support: From the moment you inquire until you safely return home, our dedicated team is available around the clock to assist with any needs or adjustments.
• Unbeatable Value: We believe incredible experiences shouldn’t break the bank. Our packages offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality or authenticity.
• Seamless Planning: Forget the stress of logistics. Our experienced team handles everything – accommodation, transportation, activities, and local insights – allowing you to simply relax and enjoy.

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Live for the experience. Start your journey today — book your tour and make memories that last a lifetime!

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A Hue City Tour isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the life, culture, and rhythm of the ancient capital. Here are some exciting activities you shouldn’t miss:

Perfume River Boat Trip & Listening to Hue Folk Songs (Ca Huế):

• This is one of Hue’s most romantic and characteristic experiences. As dusk falls or in the evening, you’ll board a traditional dragon boat, gently drifting along the poetic Perfume River. In the ethereal ambiance of sparkling lights and the radiant Truong Tien Bridge, you’ll enjoy performances of Ca Huế (Hue Royal Court Music), a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage. The delicate sounds of zithers, flutes, two-stringed fiddles, and the sweet voices of Hue’s singers will transport you into a refined, nostalgic artistic space. This is an indispensable highlight of every Hue City Tour.

Enjoying Hue Royal Court Music (Nhã nhạc cung đình Huế):

• If you want a deeper experience of Nhã nhạc, attend professional performances at Duyet Thi Duong (within the Imperial City) or traditional theaters. This is an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of this unique royal music form, once performed exclusively for emperors and the royal family.

Exploring the Hue Imperial City (Đại Nội Kinh Thành Huế):

• Walking and exploring the entire Hue Imperial City complex is a must-do activity. It will take you many hours to traverse the palaces, temples, royal gardens, and learn about the lives of the Nguyen emperors. Don’t forget to hire a tour guide or use an audio guide app to better understand the history and significance of each structure.

Visiting Royal Tombs (Lăng Tẩm Hoàng Gia):

• Each of the Nguyen emperors’ tombs boasts a unique architectural style and story. Besides Minh Mang Tomb and Khai Dinh Tomb, you can also visit Tu Duc Tomb (the most poetic tomb) or Gia Long Tomb (the most ancient and majestic tomb). Visiting these tombs gives you a more comprehensive view of the culture and beliefs of Vietnam’s last feudal dynasty. These are crucial stops on any Hue City Tour.

Visiting Thien Mu Pagoda (Chùa Thiên Mụ):

• This ancient and sacred pagoda is not only a spiritual site but also a symbol of Hue. You can reach the pagoda by motorbike, taxi, or even by boat from Toa Kham Wharf on the Perfume River. Strolling through the pagoda grounds, admiring the Phoc Duyen Tower, and listening to the pagoda bell resonate will bring a sense of peace and tranquility.

Savoring Hue Street Food & Snacks:

• Hue is famous for its diverse and rich street food culture. Take time to try snacks like: Banh Bot Loc, Banh Nam, Banh Ram It, Nem Lui (grilled pork skewers), Banh Khoai (crispy pancake), and especially the various types of Hue sweet soups (Chè Huế). You can find them at night markets, small roadside stalls, or in alleys. This is a fantastic way to experience local culinary culture authentically.

Strolling through Dong Ba Market (Chợ Đông Ba):

• Dong Ba Market is not just a shopping center but also an important cultural and culinary destination in Hue. Located on the banks of the Perfume River, the market is bustling with thousands of stalls selling all kinds of goods: from Hue specialties (sesame candy, sour shrimp, fermented pork sausage), handicrafts (conical hats, embroidery), fabrics, to enticing street food. Visiting Dong Ba Market during your Hue City Tour is an excellent opportunity to experience the lively trading atmosphere of local people and enjoy delicious, affordable food.

Learning to Make Conical Hats or Traditional Handicrafts:

• Visit traditional craft villages like Tay Ho Conical Hat Village or Thuy Xuan Incense Village to learn about the production process of intricate handicrafts. You can try making a conical hat or an incense stick yourself, taking it home as a unique souvenir from your Hue City Tour.

Cycling through the Outskirts:

• Hue has peaceful, less traffic-filled village roads, very suitable for cycling. Rent a bicycle and explore the villages, green rice fields, or fruit orchards on the outskirts, feeling the fresh air and the simple beauty of Hue’s countryside.

Experiencing Hue-style Spa and Massage:

• After a long day of sightseeing, relax with a traditional spa or massage session. Hue has many quality spa centers that offer relaxing treatments using local herbs, helping you rejuvenate and enjoy tranquility.

To enrich your Hue City Tour experience, don’t miss these beautiful and famous nearby attractions, each offering unique beauty and significance:

1. Hue Imperial City (Đại Nội Kinh Thành Huế):

   This is the heart and soul of every Hue City Tour. The Hue Imperial City is a massive architectural complex, built according to Eastern architecture, harmoniously integrated with nature. It was once the residence, workplace, and living area of 13 Nguyen emperors and the royal family. The complex includes:

   • Kinh Thanh (Citadel): The outermost wall, with a circumference of over 10km, surrounded by a deep moat system and 10 gates.
   • Hoang Thanh (Imperial City): Where palaces and temples were built for the emperor and court. Notable features include Ngo Mon Gate (the main gate), Thai Hoa Palace (where official ceremonies took place), and The Mieu Temple (where Nguyen emperors were worshipped).
   • Tu Cam Thanh (Forbidden Purple City): A forbidden area, exclusively for the emperor and the royal family.

     Exploring the Imperial City helps visitors gain a deep understanding of the history, architecture, and culture of Vietnam’s last feudal dynasty.

2. Thien Mu Pagoda (Chùa Thiên Mụ / Linh Mụ Pagoda):

   The oldest and most sacred pagoda in Hue, located on Ha Khe Hill, directly overlooking the poetic Perfume River. Thien Mu Pagoda was built in 1601 and is an inseparable symbol of Hue city. With its unique architecture, highlighted by the seven-story Phoc Duyen Tower (21m high) and the Great Bell (Đại Hồng Chung), the pagoda offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Visiting here on your Hue City Tour, you’ll not only admire the ancient architecture but also feel the tranquility and contemplation of Buddhism.

1. Royal Tombs (Lăng Tẩm Hoàng Gia):

   Hue is famous for its system of royal tombs of the Nguyen emperors, each tomb being a unique architectural work, expressing the personality and post-mortem beliefs of each emperor. The 5 most famous tombs include:

   • Minh Mang Tomb: Known for its majestic architecture, perfectly harmonized with the natural landscape of rivers, trees, and strong Confucian influences.
   • Khai Dinh Tomb: Features a unique architectural style, blending Asian and European influences, with intricate ceramic and glass mosaic details, making it exceptionally opulent.
   • Tu Duc Tomb: The most poetic and beautiful tomb, with harmonious architecture nestled amidst green pine forests and clear lakes, resembling a miniature park.
   • Gia Long Tomb: The first tomb of the Nguyen Dynasty, possessing ancient, pristine, and majestic beauty amidst vast mountains.
   • Dong Khanh Tomb: Features a subtle blend of traditional Vietnamese architecture and French style, evident in its decorative patterns.

     Visiting these tombs is an indispensable part of understanding the Nguyen Dynasty’s culture and history during your Hue City Tour.

2. Vong Canh Hill (Đồi Vọng Cảnh):

   Located about 7km southwest of the city center, Vong Canh Hill is an excellent spot to admire the panoramic view of the poetic Perfume River winding among lush green hills. From here, visitors can gaze far to see ancient gardens, moss-covered roofs, and tombs hidden among the trees. Sunrise or sunset is the ideal time to visit Vong Canh Hill, offering peaceful moments and beautiful photo opportunities.

3. Dong Ba Market (Chợ Đông Ba):

   More than just a commercial center, Dong Ba Market is an important cultural and culinary destination in Hue. Situated on the banks of the Perfume River, the market is bustling with thousands of stalls selling all kinds of goods: from Hue specialties (sesame candy, sour shrimp, fermented pork sausage), handicrafts (conical hats, embroidery), fabrics, to tempting street food. Visiting Dong Ba Market on your Hue City Tour is a great opportunity to experience the vibrant trading atmosphere of local people and enjoy delicious, affordable food.

Hue’s cuisine is renowned for its sophistication, meticulous preparation, rich yet subtle flavors, and its diversity, ranging from royal dishes to rustic street food. A Hue City Tour would be incomplete if you missed the following specialties:

1. Bún Bò Huế (Hue Beef Noodle Soup):

   This is Hue’s iconic dish, and perhaps the most famous one you cannot miss. Bún Bò Huế features thick vermicelli noodles, a rich, spicy, and distinctly lemongrass-infused broth. It typically includes sliced beef, pork hock, crab paste, and sometimes pork blood. When eaten, it’s usually accompanied by fresh herbs like shredded banana blossoms, water spinach, bean sprouts, and a touch of chili oil. The spicy, aromatic, and rich flavor of Bún Bò Huế will surely leave a deep impression on you.

2. Bánh Bèo, Bánh Nậm, Bánh Lọc (The “Banh” Trio):

   This is a trio of traditional cakes you absolutely must try.

   • Bánh Bèo: Small, round cakes steamed in tiny cups, made from rice flour, topped with dried shrimp, crispy pork cracklings, and fried shallots. Served with sweet and sour dipping sauce.
   • Bánh Nậm: Flat, soft cakes wrapped in dong or banana leaves, with a shrimp and pork filling. Steamed and served with a similar dipping sauce to Bánh Bèo.
   • Bánh Lọc: Comes in two types: Bánh lọc trần (transparent, chewy, with shrimp and pork filling, eaten with chili fish sauce) and Bánh lọc gói lá chuối (steamed in banana leaves, with shrimp and pork filling, unwrapped before eating). Both types have a distinctive chewiness and irresistible flavor. These cakes demonstrate the Hue people’s skill and meticulousness and are an indispensable part of any culinary Hue City Tour.
3. Bánh Khoái (Hue Crispy Pancake):

   Similar to the Southern Vietnamese Banh Xeo but smaller, with a crispy crust made from rice flour, eggs, turmeric, and filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Bánh Khoái is deep-fried and served with fresh herbs, nem lui, and especially Hue’s unique “nước lèo” (dipping sauce) made from pork liver, peanuts, sesame, lean pork, and shrimp, giving it a rich and savory flavor.

4. Nem Lụi (Hue Grilled Pork Skewers):

   Pork is seasoned, skewered onto small bamboo sticks (or lemongrass stalks), and grilled over charcoal until golden brown and fragrant. Nem Lụi is typically wrapped in thin rice paper with fresh herbs, cucumber, star fruit, green banana, and dipped in the special “nước lèo” sauce, similar to Bánh Khoái. The aroma of grilled meat, the freshness of vegetables, and the rich dipping sauce create a perfect combination.

5. Chè Hẻm (Hue Sweet Soups/Desserts):

   Hue is famous for its wide variety of sweet soups, ranging from subtly sweet and creamy to warm and comforting, or cool and refreshing. You can find over 20 different types of sweet soups, such as taro sweet soup, white bean sweet soup, corn sweet soup, lotus seed sweet soup, tapioca sweet soup with roasted pork (a famous savory-sweet version), green bean sweet soup, red bean sweet soup, etc. Sweet soup stalls are often located in small alleys, creating the distinctive “chè hẻm” (alley sweet soup) charm of Hue. Trying these sweet soups is a wonderful experience to explore street food and cool down during your Hue City Tour.

6. Cơm Hến / Bún Hến (Clam Rice / Clam Noodles):

   A rustic yet incredibly distinctive Hue dish. Cơm Hến consists of cold rice mixed with stir-fried seasoned clams, crispy pork cracklings, fried pork skin, fermented shrimp paste, roasted peanuts, fresh herbs, and various aromatic vegetables. When eaten, hot clam broth is often poured over it and thoroughly mixed. Bún Hến is similar but uses vermicelli noodles instead of rice. The spicy, savory, and rich flavor of this dish will surprise you.

7. Bánh Canh Cá Lóc (Snakehead Fish Noodle Soup):

   This noodle soup features thick rice flour noodles, a sweet and clear snakehead fish broth, richly braised snakehead fish meat, and delicious fish cakes. Bánh Canh Cá Lóc is usually topped with fried shallots, pepper, and served piping hot, making it perfect for a cool morning in Hue.

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