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Things to Do in Hue City

Hue city, a testimony to the imperial glory of Vietnam, stands to boast of the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty. It is located in Central Vietnam and is famous for the edifice of a grand citadel marking the seat of power. With the best things to do in Hue City, its charm lies in the narratives of history, captured in the nooks and corners of the grand old buildings, standing tall amidst the upcoming essence of modern life. For the traveller, Hue causes one to stop and introspect on how far humanity has come, on the larger than life achievements of our predecessors from centuries ago. Hue is the story of one such enterprising lot whose achievements have literally left a mark on the culture as it has evolved over time.

Hue is located on the Song Huong- Perfume River and offers a little bit of everything, making it a captivating destination within Vietnam packages. Within accessible range is the lovely turquoise sea and white sand beaches and for the ones who like a little bit of elevation, there is the Bach ma mountain. Try out the best things to do in Hue City from cycling tours to cave adventures, it provides the traveller with a palette of options to explore different aspects of awe-inspiring activities. For the food lovers, Hue appears to offer art for plain gastronomic delight. True to the personality of the place, Hue’s food is elegant, artful, noble and an absolute treat to the senses.In catering to the expectations of a tourist, Hue offers a holistic experience involving every sense perception. No wonder then, that it has been given the prestigious position of being a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Imperial City,Hue

It goes without saying that the Imperial City, Hue has some promising places to visit and attractions to see. Deeply steeped in history, it comprises of some of the rich historical and architectural facets that attracts the attention of the locals and tourists alike. It goes without saying that the Imperial City, Hue has some promising places to visit and attractions to see. Deeply steeped in history, it comprises of some of the rich historical and architectural facets that attracts the attention of the locals and tourists alike.

Highlights: Some of the prominent places of attractions include the Imperial Citadel, the imperial tombs, the Thien Mu Pagoda, etc. Every visitor would love to be a part of the culture and heritage reflected through this beautiful place. In addition to that, it also offers the opportunity to carry out hosts of activities like boat riding or shopping in the local markets. A motorbike tour can also be a great point of interest.

Best time to visit: The months from September to March are ideal for tourists to this place.

Price: Most places do not require any separate entry free in the Imperial city.

Lang Co Beach

Lang Co Beach is one of the best beaches to visit when you are on a trip to Vietnam with family. This beach is situated away from the hustle and bustle of city life. You will find that the place is very peaceful and clean. The water is quite clean and you can easily go for a dip. The waves cab get quite high so swimming is not really an option. But the beach is surrounded by a resort that offers life guard services making it a very safe beach for the whole family. You will not have any problem finding the place though it is a bit away from the actual city life. This is definitely a must go to places if you are visiting Vietnam and want to spend some quality time with your family.

Location: Lang Co, Th?aThiênHu? 537360, Vietnam

Highlight: There are small shacks surrounding the beach so you can grab something to eat and drink from there.

Imperial City

The Imperial city in hue is a prominent historic sight and landmark in the city which attracts a number of visitors all round the year to its rustic surroundings and marvellous creations. The imperial city was formerly the site for the old capital city and hence, an important site in the city. It is prominently marked by a moat and ten ornate gates which guard the palace and maintain its integrity. The gates also act as a guard to the numerous gardens and tombs situated here. Among the many features of this city is the flagship tall flag tower.

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Location: The imperial city is located in the Thua Thien Hue province in Vietnam city.

Highlights: The walled fortress is a complete repertoire of cultural history and an expanse of beautiful constructions, worth a visit.

Best time to visit: One can visit during cool season to avoid the sweltering heat.

Tomb Of Khai Dinh

The tomb of Khai Dinh in hue is a prominent historic landmark in the city and a point of interest for visitors. The tomb has been built in remembrance of Emperor Khai Dinh who ruled Vietnam and under whose influence, the city witnessed the emergence of western culture. Thus, western culture and architecture is clearly visible in the construction of this edifice. Traces of oriental architecture are also visible around the construction. Construction on the tomb was concluded in the year 1931.

Location: The tomb of Khai Dinh lies on a steep hill in the Huong Thuy province in Vietnam.

Highlights: Despite its historic prominence, the tomb has been constructed using materials of modern day construction including cement and electricity. One can get a glimpse of authentic Eastern and Western art from the period under one roof in this tomb.

Best time to visit: Visit to the tomb is preferred during winter season.

Mount Ngu Binh

The Mount Ngu Binh in Hue is often described as an ascending beauty. The architectural edifice lies on top of the Ngu Binh mountain, exhibiting a picturesque view of a strikingly symmetric figure. The mount is considered to be an invaluable gift endowed by the nature to this city. The area is surrounded by an immense expanse of natural and scenic views that together enhance the enticing attractiveness of the place. Earlier, it was called the Nui Bang. The flat top of the mount is encircled with pine trees on all sides.

Location: Ngu Binh is a mountain that is located in Vietnam.

Highlights: The mount Ngu Binh reaches a height of 105 metre with a symmetrical view. On either side of the mount are two small mounts as well. After the perfume river, the mount is considered to be the second best wonder of nature bestowed upon this land.

Thien Mu Pagoda

The Thien Mu Pagoda is a well known sacred and religious site in the city of Hue. As an important landmark in the city, this pagoda is still in use in the present day by Buddhists. One can reach here via a boat ride, which is an adventure in itself. Once here, one can benefit for the twin views of the surrounding area and the popular perfume lake. The inside of the pagoda offers a nice and peaceful aura for relaxation and exploration. The history of the pagoda is immensely deep so it is a nice place to explore the culture of the city at the pagoda.

Location: The Thien Mu Pagoda is located on the banks of the perfume river in Vietnam.

Highlights: The pagoda is highly recognisable as a landmark in the city, consisting of a seven tiered monument and a bell tower.

Best time to visit: All year

The Mieu

The Mieu in hue city is another prominent landmark of religious sanctity, whereby, a beautiful temple is constructed, eligible for viewing and exploring. The ancestral temple dedicated to the Emperors of the city and was constructed under the kingship of Minh Mang in the year 1823. The divine purpose for the construction of the temple lay in offering a platform for the worship of previous rulers of the Nguyen dynasty. A prominent feature of the temple is the construction of nine urns in front of the temple in dedication to the rulers.

Location: The Mieu temple is located in the Imperial city in Vietnam.

Highlights: The temple is a part of a three building complex which is sight to the numerous pictures of the rulers of the Nguyen dynasty. This is a nice place to come and meet knowledgeable monks.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year.

Thai Hoa Palace

For a city that is filled with repertoire of historical landmarks and sightseeing opportunities, Vietnam does not fail to impress once again with the historical Thai Hoa Palace, which is again, a prominent landmark in the city and a historical castle. Although the palace is nothing too elaborate and alluring at first sight, however, once within the precincts, one will be able to observe and appreciate the numerous symbolic statues that line within the captivating palace. The main entrance of the palace is a glimpse into the rich history of the city. The palace is influenced by the Chinese style of construction and was used in the earlier centuries by emperors for holding relevant meetings and ceremonies.

Location: The palace is located within the imperial city in Vietnam. Highlights: The palace is also popular by the name ‘Palace of Supreme harmony’. The spacious hall boasts of ornate timber roof construction.

Best time: All year

Royal Tombs

The Royal tombs in Hue are another prominent sightseeing destination in the city of Vietnam. These tombs are a collection of ancient ruins and cemeteries which have now come to form an important focal point for tourist activity. Since the city of Hue was a prominent capital of Vietnam and home to the emperors of the place, therefore, the tombs of these emperors has been erected along the perfume river, marking the history of the rulers of the Nguyen dynasty. The three famous tombs are Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, and the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh.

Location: The tombs are located alongside the perfume river in the city.

Highlights: The tombs merit a visit owing to the rich history that comes to be associated with their erection and their construction.

Best time to visit: For sightseeing, it is best to travel on a cool day.

Tomb Of Tu Duc

The tomb of Tu Duc is Hue city is an important landmark that marks the history of another great Emperor of the city. The tomb is the final resting place of the great emperor who happened to be a great ruler as well as a scholar. The tomb had been erected before his actual death. The place is marked as an alluring landmark owing to the presence of a lake, a pavilion and a theatre. The tomb has been divided into a temple area and a tomb area. An ironical feature though lies in a secret location that is the actual burying ground for the emperor, instead of the tomb where he was supposed to be buried.

Location: The tomb of Tu Duc lies along the perfume rive in the city.

Highlights: The historical landmark is expressive of the history and culture of the era of the emperor.

Best time: Any time of the year.

Forbidden Purple City

The Forbidden purple city is a repertoire of history and culture from the ancient era and symbolises the historic relevance of the city of Hue. Today, what remains of the purple city are charred remains of the royal family’s inner sanctum. These remains occupy the area within the citadel. Having been partially rebuilt, the landmark is under consideration for further renovation and restoration projects. When visiting this place, one can observe and explore the various incidents of wars that might have waged through the city, reflecting along every construction.

Location: The forbidden purple city is located centrally in the Hue imperial city, hence easily accessible.

Highlights: The forbidden purple city is the place where the emperors and their families used to reside but during waging wars, the precincts were badly destroyed. Hence, basically the city is a collection of ruins.

Best time to visit: All round the year.

Thanh Toan Bridge

The Thanh Toan Bridge in Hue city is a prominent place of attraction for the tourists who come to this city in exploration of its many historic landmarks and places. The bridge is an exemplary point to discover the historical construction of the era of the emperors. The Thanh Toan Bridge is also a perfect place to discover the beauty of the nature and the implicit little constructions along the bridge. It is also an opportunity to meet the local folk who can express more about the features of this place.

Location: The Thanh Toan Bridge is located in the Hue city of Vietnam.

Highlights: The Thanh Toan Bridge is surrounded by the best endowed features of the nature including greenery and rice fields. This is also a nice place to observe the silence and peace of the landmark, worth a visit.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year

Truong Tien Bridge

The Truong Tien Bridge in Vietnam is a prominent bridge that marks an important sight and landmark that attracts numerous visitors all round the year. The bridge is a very nice place to observe, especially during the night time when it is lit up with electrifying lights. The prominence to the markets adds glamour to the attraction. Although, the location is just a bridge but holds an immensely deep history as well. The location of the Truong Tien Bridge is apt for taking soulful photographs and observing the place.

Location: The Truong Tien Bridge spans the distance of the Huong River in the city of Vietnam.

Highlights: The sparkling bridge is worth a visit during the night time when it is lit in full glory. The changing colours of the light lend a spectacular view of the bridge that is worth the visit.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year.

Perfume River

Among the most popular and lovely attractions in the city of Vietnam is the perfume river, which is a water body and is marked by the presence of natural parks. The river literally crosses the city of Hue. The river derives its name from the flowers from various orchards, which fall into the waters of the river in the autumn season that lens a perfume like aroma to the river. The perfume river originates from two tributaries. The river has been featured in popular culture and media for its attractive beauty.

Location: The perfume river flows through the hue city in Vietnam.

Highlights: The perfume river offers plenty of rejuvenation opportunities to its visitors who can take a boat ride on its waters. It flows through the central city and is the highlight of tourist attractions here.

Best time to visit: One can visit in cool season to enjoy the boat ride.

Tam Giang Lagoon

The Tam Giang Lagoon in Hue city is a prominent water body that attracts tourists on large scale. The lagoon presents a soulful opportunity to explore the vast expanse of natural beauty and scenic views. This is also the perfect spot to explore the life of local fishermen who make a living off these waters. Sometimes, they will also allow you to join in the fishing and have local sea food too. Although the lagoon is a little away from the city, it is a visit you should not miss. The fishermen will also help you learn about the culture of this place and the history as well.

Location: The Tam Giang Lagoon is located in the city of Hue in Vietnam.

Highlights: The quiet and mystic atmosphere of the Tam Giang Lagoon is an impressive state of ambience and is a lovely place to visit.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year

Elephant Springs

The Elephant springs is a prominent natural springs which merits a visit if you are coming for a trip to Vietnam. There is a natural pool below the waterfall here that makes for a very special dipping place. The smooth rocks below the falls and various upstreams are worth exploring and navigating. The place is often deserted during weekdays and off season, which is a nice opportunity to spend some time in privacy. Getting here is an easy task via motor cycle taxi drivers.

Location: The Elephant springs are located some 53 kilometres from Hue city.

Highlights: The natural springs are worth a visit as they present an opportunity to explore the vast beauty of the nature bestowed up the city. The road that leads to the springs is very convenient for visitors and is very attractive for tourists.

Best time to visit: Weekends and during hot season are best.

Bach Ma National Park

Bach Ma National Park in city of Hue is a very well known national park, filled with the beauty of the nature and greenery. Owing to the prominent location and importance of the national park, it has been declared as a protected area. The park covers an area of 220 square kilometre in all and is comprised of three zones including a strictly prohibited core area, administrative area, and a buffer zone. In spite of its abundant beauty, the national park also has immense history associated with it.

Location: The Bach Ma National Park is conveniently located in the Annamite Mountains, which happens to be one of the wettest places in Vietnam.

Highlights: Located in Central Vietnam, the Bach Ma National Park is rich in biodiversity and consists of vegetation like moist evergreen and montane forest. Some mammals can also be found inside the park.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year.

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Hue City Things To Do FAQs

What are the best things to do in Hue City?

Hue City offers a range of options in terms of things to do in the city. A few of the
most popular activities are listed as follows:
Motorcycle Tour in Hue City
Biking tour to Prao Tribe Village and Hoi an
Cruise in Phong Nha cave
Helicopter ride to Quang Binh
Tour of Tonle Sap Lake
Visit Silk Farm
Visit Angkor National
Visit Mount Ngu Binh
Visit Thien Mu Pagoda
Visit Forbidden Purple City
Visit Tam Giang Lagoon

What are the best adventure activities to do in Hue City?

The best adventure activities to do in Hue City spans over pretty much the entire
landscape of the region. A list of the activities are as follows:

Biking tour through Vinh Moc Tunnels
Motorbike trip through Prao tribe village
Cruise through Phong Nha cave
Night Motorcycle tour
Motorcycle tour to Marble mountain and Hai Van Pass
Tam Giang Eco Tour
Visit Thanh Tan hot spring and experience Zipline and Highwire

Which are the best places to get a cruising experience in Hue City?

Cruising is an unforgettable experience in Hue specially owing to the picturesque
scenery all around. The shoreline caves into the land at locations and lagoons
make for adding an interesting dimension to the scene from a boat. The most
popular cruising locations are:
Perfume River Cruise
Cruise at Phong Nha Cave
Cruise at Tien Son Caves

Where can I enjoy a helicopter ride in Hue city? How much will it cost?

One can enjoy Helicopter ride in Quang Binh and also take a tour of the ancient

city of Hue on a helicopter. It will cost around 2250 USD per head.

Which are the best beaches to visit in Hue City?

The best beaches in and around Hue are as follows:
Vinh Thanh beach
Ham Rong beach
Thuan An beach
Lang Co beach
Canh Duong Beach

Which are some famous routes for biking in Hue City?

It is quite an experience to explore Hue city on a bike. Few of the most popular

routes for biking are as follows:

Hue to Danang

Route to Prao tribe village

Biking through Hai Van Pass

Cycling through back roads from Hue to Hoi

Which are some famous caves to explore in Hue City? Is it safe to go there?

Few of the most famous caves in Hue are Phong Nha caves and Tien Son
Caves.
The caves are dark and can be muddy and may require tourists to have one of a
kind experience of exploring the formations with their hands, on their knees and
even at times in certain places, on one’s bellies. However, the tour is
unforgettable and perfectly safe. A certain portion of the caves can be explored
through a cruise and the rest on feet while trekking up into the heart of the rocky
cliffs.