Hue

Written by Lorraine Aust, Minh Nguyen
15/08/2025
Scenic night view of the Imperial City in Hue with reflections on the water.
Quang Nguyen Vinh, Pexels

Hue, Vietnam, is a city deeply rooted in imperial history and rich cultural heritage, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors are drawn to its well-preserved ancient monuments, majestic royal tombs, and the tranquil Perfume River. The destination is also recognized for its distinctive local cuisine and provides a relaxing atmosphere.

For travelers looking to connect with others, various backpacker hostels in Hue cultivate a social environment with on-site bars and organized evening events. The city also offers a night walking street and a vibrant riverside area where locals and tourists can gather. While some find opportunities to socialize within specific establishments, the overall nightlife experience in Hue is not consistently highly rated by all visitors.

Top 5 Things to do in Hue

Activities in Hue primarily involve exploring historical landmarks, engaging with local culture, and experiencing its distinctive culinary scene.

1. Explore the Hue Imperial City (The Citadel)

Stepping into the Hue Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transports visitors to Vietnam's imperial past. This vast complex served as the former capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, encompassing royal palaces, grand gates, and engaging museums. One can spend a good three hours or more wandering through its well-preserved grounds, admiring the intricate architecture and learning about the royal history. Key areas include the Ngo Mon Gate, the Nine Dynastic Urns, and the Forbidden Purple City, offering a glimpse into the lives of past emperors.

Cost: Entrance fee for adults is 200,000 VND (approximately $8 USD). For children aged 7-12 (or 0.8-1.3m tall), the fee is 40,000 VND (approximately $1.60 USD).

Transport: The Imperial City is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many hotels in Hue's city center.

2. Visit Thien Mu Pagoda via Perfume River Boat Trip

Embarking on a dragon boat trip along the tranquil Perfume River is a quintessential Hue experience, leading to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda. This seven-story pagoda, also known as the Pagoda of the Celestial Lady, is a significant symbol of Hue. The boat ride offers scenic views of the riverbanks and local life, providing a peaceful journey to the pagoda. Once there, explore the pagoda grounds, its historic bell, and the classic octagonal tower, Thap Phuoc Duyen. Arriving in the morning is recommended to avoid larger tour groups.

Cost: Entrance to Thien Mu Pagoda is free. A private dragon boat trip on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda typically costs around 450,000 VND (approximately $18 USD) for a single boat. Shared tours, which may include a boat trip to the pagoda, range from $5 to $20 USD per person, or a basic shared ride for international visitors might be around 150,000 VND (approximately $6 USD).

Transport: Thien Mu Pagoda is located about 4-5 km southwest of the Citadel. The most scenic way to arrive is by dragon boat on the Perfume River. Alternatively, one can take a taxi, motorbike, or cycle to the pagoda. A motorbike rental averages around $6-$15 USD per day. Taxis are also readily available.

3. Explore the Royal Tombs of the Nguyen Emperors

The elaborate royal tombs scattered around Hue offer a profound insight into the Nguyen Dynasty's final resting places. Each tomb, often designed while the emperor was still alive, reflects unique architectural styles and philosophical beliefs. Key tombs to visit include Minh Mang Tomb, known for its harmonious layout and symmetrical design amidst lush gardens and ponds; Khai Dinh Tomb, distinguished by its elaborate mosaics and a striking blend of Eastern and Western architectural influences; and Tu Duc Tomb, recognized for its serene setting with a lotus-filled lake. Exploring these mausoleums provides a deeper understanding of imperial life and funerary traditions.

Cost: Entrance fees for individual tombs like Minh Mang, Tu Duc, and Khai Dinh are 150,000 VND each (approximately $6 USD) for adults. Combo tickets are available, for instance, a 3-site pass (Imperial Palace, Minh Mang Tomb, Khai Dinh Tomb) costs 420,000 VND (approximately $17 USD) for adults, valid for two days.

Transport: The royal tombs are located outside the city center, typically requiring transport. Taxis or Grab services are convenient, with a private car for a half-day tour to major sites costing around 700,000 VND (approximately $28 USD). Many visitors also opt to hire a motorbike (around $6-$15 USD per day) or join organized tours that include transport to the tombs.

4. Immerse in Local Life at Dong Ba Market

Dong Ba Market is Hue's largest and oldest traditional market, providing a bustling and authentic local experience. Visitors can navigate through its vibrant lanes, discovering a wide array of goods from fresh produce, seafood, and spices to traditional clothing, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The market is also a fantastic place to sample local Hue street food specialties, such as Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and various types of Banh (steamed rice cakes). It offers a sensory immersion into the daily rhythms of Hue's residents.

Cost: Entrance to Dong Ba Market is free. Costs will be for purchases, food, or souvenirs. Bargaining is common, especially for non-food items, and having small bills in Vietnamese Dong (VND) is advisable.

Transport: Dong Ba Market is located in the heart of Hue city, along the Perfume River, and is easily reachable by walking from most central accommodations.

5. Partake in a Hue Cooking Class

Delving into Hue's renowned imperial and local cuisine through a cooking class offers a hands-on cultural experience. Many classes begin with a visit to a local market, like Dong Ba Market, to select fresh ingredients, providing insights into Vietnamese produce and culinary traditions. Under the guidance of local chefs, participants learn to prepare authentic Hue dishes, such as Banh Khoai (sizzling crepes), Nem Lui (lemongrass skewers), or Hue Beef Noodle Soup. This activity culminates in enjoying the prepared meal, offering a deeper appreciation for the city's gastronomic heritage.

Cost: Cooking class prices vary depending on the provider, duration, and whether it's a group or private session, typically ranging from $29 to $89 USD per person. Some classes include a market visit, while others focus solely on the cooking session.

Transport: Cooking classes are usually located within or close to the city center. Many classes offer hotel pick-up, especially if a market visit is included, or are easily accessible by taxi or a short walk.

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