Imperial city of Hué
Hué is an imperial treasure, renowned for its historic citadel, ancient tombs, and majestic pagodas. Once the capital of Vietnam, its serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage offer a glimpse into the regal past, making it a perfect destination for those seeking history and tranquility.
Whether you're exploring the ancient Imperial City, wandering through the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, or visiting the royal tombs, you'll find a sense of peace and wonder in this historical gem of Vietnam.
Hué is easily accessible, being a 3-hour drive from Da Nang, a 5-hour drive from Hoi An, and a 2-hour flight from Hanoi.
Hanoï
Hoi An
Hué
Ha Long
Ninh Binh
Sapa
Phong Nha
Hoh Chi Minh
Mui Né
1 - Imperial citadel of Hué
The Imperial Citadel of Hué stands as a testament to Vietnam's rich imperial history, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by the formidable Ngo Mon Gate, the main entrance to the citadel complex. Inside, sprawling gardens, pavilions, and ancient structures unfold, showcasing traditional Vietnamese architecture and royal court life.
To fully explore the citadel, plan for at least 2-3 hours. Entrance fees typically range around 150,000 VND (approximately $6.50 USD) per person, with discounts for students and children. Inside, you'll discover the Dien Tho Residence, once home to the Queen Mothers, as well as the Thai Hoa Palace, where lavish ceremonies were held. Don't miss the Forbidden Purple City, reserved exclusively for the emperor and his concubines, which offers a fascinating glimpse into imperial life and intrigue.
Visiting the Imperial Citadel provides not only a historical journey but also a serene escape within its well-preserved grounds.
2 - Explore Hué city
In Hué, besides exploring the Imperial Citadel, there are several other captivating activities and sights to experience:
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Thien Mu Pagoda: A historic pagoda situated on the banks of the Perfume River, offering serene gardens and panoramic views.
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Royal Tombs: Visit elaborate tombs of Nguyen emperors such as Minh Mang, Khai Dinh, and Tu Duc, each showcasing unique architectural styles and serene surroundings.
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Perfume River Boat Cruise: Take a scenic boat ride along the Perfume River, passing by lush landscapes and traditional villages.
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Dong Ba Market: Explore this bustling market for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicious Hue cuisine.
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Hue Museum of Royal Fine Arts: Discover a collection of artifacts and artworks that depict the cultural and artistic heritage of the Nguyen Dynasty.
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Thuan An Beach: Relax on the sandy shores of this nearby beach, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
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Hue Royal Antiquities Museum: Delve deeper into Hue's royal history with a visit to this museum, housing a diverse collection of royal artifacts and treasures.
These activities offer a blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and relaxation, making Hué a compelling destination for travelers interested in Vietnam's rich heritage.
Where to stay ?
We carefully selected accommodations that offered comfort and convenience. Our chosen stays enhanced our exploration and provided moments of relaxation throughout our adventure.
Hué : Le robinet homestay ($) , Hue serene palace hotel ($$)
Explore Phong Nha safely and efficienctly
By Plane:
Hué is served by Phu Bai International Airport, located about 15 kilometers south of the city center. Upon arrival at Phu Bai Airport, you can easily reach downtown Hué within a 20-minute drive. Taxis, airport shuttles, and private car services are readily available outside the terminal, providing convenient options to continue your journey into the city.
By Train:
Traveling to Hué by train offers a scenic and comfortable journey from major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Hué Railway Station is centrally located, making it convenient for travelers to access the city's attractions. You can book train tickets online through Vietnam Railways' official website or third-party platforms like Baolau or 12go.asia. Tickets are also available for purchase at Hué Railway Station and through local travel agencies.
By Car:
Exploring Hué and its surroundings by car allows for flexibility and independence in your travels. Car rentals are available in Hué, providing options to explore nearby attractions such as the royal tombs and Thien Mu Pagoda at your own pace. While traffic in Hué is generally less congested compared to larger cities, having a car gives you the freedom to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems in the region.
By Bus:
Local buses are a cost-effective and practical means of transportation within Hué and its neighboring areas. The city has a well-developed bus network, offering routes to nearby towns and attractions. Tickets can be purchased directly from bus stations or through mobile apps like 12Go.
Hué is also well-connected by long-distance buses from major cities like Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Da Nang, offering a convenient option for travelers exploring Vietnam by road.
This transportation guide provides various options to suit different travel preferences and budgets, ensuring a seamless journey to and around Hué.
Discover Ninh Binh cuisine and restaurants
Hué's culinary scene offers a delightful array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Here are some must-try dining experiences while in Hué:
($$) Nook Café: One of the best options for vegetarians, Nook Café offers a cozy spot to enjoy a variety of coffees, teas, and light snacks. Perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon break, Nook Café provides a comfortable setting to enjoy Hue's relaxed atmosphere while sipping on your favorite beverage.
($$) Hanh Restaurant: Delight in traditional Hue cuisine at Hanh Restaurant, where dishes like bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup), banh khoai (Hue-style pancakes), and nem lui (grilled pork skewers) highlight the city's culinary heritage. Enjoy these flavorful dishes in a cozy setting adorned with Hue's cultural motifs.
($$) Ancient Hue Restaurant: Indulge in a royal dining experience at Ancient Hue Restaurant, known for its imperial cuisine inspired by dishes once served to Nguyen emperors. Savour delicacies such as banh beo (steamed rice cakes) and banh bot loc (transparent shrimp and pork dumplings), meticulously prepared to reflect the sophistication of Hue's royal kitchens.
($) Street Food Stalls: Explore Hue's vibrant street food scene and sample local favorites like banh mi Hue (Hue-style sandwiches), com hen (rice with baby clams), and bun thit nuong (grilled pork noodle salad). These street food stalls offer a budget-friendly and authentic taste of Hue's culinary treasures.
($$) Lac Thien Restaurant: Experience a taste of Hue's bustling atmosphere at Lac Thien Restaurant, famous for its hearty portions of bun bo Hue served with fresh herbs and a side of mam ruoc (fermented shrimp paste). This local favorite provides a lively dining experience amidst the city's bustling streets.
($$$) La Residence Hue Hotel & Spa: Indulge in a luxurious dining experience at La Residence Hue Hotel & Spa, where French-Vietnamese fusion cuisine is served against the backdrop of the Perfume River. From exquisite seafood dishes to decadent desserts, each meal is crafted to provide a sophisticated taste of Hue's culinary diversity.
($$) DMZ Bar & Restaurant: Enjoy a relaxed dining experience at DMZ Bar & Restaurant, known for its casual ambiance and international menu. Feast on a variety of dishes ranging from Vietnamese specialties to Western favorites, all while enjoying live music and views of Hue's vibrant nightlife scene.
($) Dong Ba Market: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Dong Ba Market, where food vendors offer a diverse selection of Hue's street food delights. Sample local treats like banh bot loc (clear shrimp and pork dumplings) and che Hue (sweet dessert soup) as you navigate through this iconic market.
These dining options in Hué promise to tantalize your taste buds and provide a memorable culinary journey through the flavors of central Vietnam.
