Hue offers a rich tapestry of historical sites, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. To make the most of your visit, consider exploring the UNESCO-listed Hue Citadel, visiting the majestic royal tombs, taking a boat ride on the Perfume River, and enjoying local cuisine by doing a street food tour.
Here’s a more detailed look at things to do in Hue:
1. Explore Imperial Relics
Hue Citadel: The leading historical and cultural site in Hue City, a must-see destination to experience the life of the Nguyen Kings, learn about palace decoration, and explore traditional architecture. You will learn how the building, made of wood, is painted with a red and golden interior or why there is a yellow or green title on the building.
Royal Tombs: Visit the tombs of emperor Tu Duc – a romantic design with lakes – pine forest, and a traditional palace; Minh Mang – a serence atmosphere with two lakes as wings and main yellow-title temples and palace in the main line; and Khai Dinh – a modern and ancient style of European and Vietnamese design, each unique in its architecture and reflecting the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Enjoy the royal music: The traditional music and culture of the Nguyen Dynasty are preserved through performances, often showcased in the royal theatre within the citadel. During the show, you can experience a blend of royal sounds from various traditional musical instruments used in Nhã nhạc (Royal Music), including one-string instruments, pipa, moon lute, bamboo flutes, sanxian, and clappers. You can also witness the royal dance in red or the performance of giving birth to a dragon.
2. Visit Religious Temples in Hue
Thien Mu Pagoda: Admire the iconic seven-tiered tower and take in the serene atmosphere of this important spiritual site situated along the Perfume River.
Tu Hieu Pagoda: The second famous one is nestled under green trees in the mountains, where many eunuchs worshipped here, and it is also the place where Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh spent his last days.
3. Live with Nature in Hue City
Explore Perfume River: Taking a walk along the river on the wooden bridge and through the parks is an easy activity that allows you to experience the natural beauty of the lush surroundings. Take a boat ride to explore the river’s beauty and its surrounding landscape, with plenty of green trees lining the banks. Suggested routes include a boat ride from the city center to Thien Mu Pagoda or from the city center to Hon Chen Temple.
Trekking in Bach Ma National Park: Escape the city and explore the lush forests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife of this national park. Make your wonderful day with a trekking tour through trails covered by lush green jungle plants to Do Quyen Waterfall, or walk up to its peak for a chance to see morning clouds or a picturesque landscape that can envelop you in its breathtaking beauty.
Meet Tam Giang Lagoon: Explore the diverse ecosystems and fishing villages of this unique lagoon in the early morning or late afternoon, when you can capture incredible photos with water, boats, fishing nets, and sunlight casting.
4. Study History and Arts Through Museums
Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities: Explore a collection of artifacts from the Nguyen Dynasty, providing deeper insights into the royal court. Many unique artifacts are crafted from wood, ceramics, and bronze, featuring intricate decorations.
Le Ba Dang Museum: Visit the top art paintings of the famous painter Le Ba Dang, who lived and worked in France. An elegant space on Le Loi Street near the Perfume displays his famous paintings. This museum, with its diverse exhibits, invites you to explore different aspects of life and nature.
Diem Phung Thi Museum: Located near the Perfume River, opposite the Saigon Morin Hotel, the museum features a collection of sculptures by talented artist Diem Phung Thi. She created modules in stone that are easy to connect, allowing for the establishment of various statues depending on the imagination of each person.
5. Relax on Beaches
Besides historical travel, Hue City also has many beautiful beaches, such as Thuan An Beach – 14 km from the city center with ample sand space; Lang Co Beach – 65 km away from the city center, under the foot of Hai Van Pass with long coast and white sand like soft silk, or Canh Duong Beach – nested under mountains and near Chan May Port for soft waves and sallow water that is suitable for family travel. Taking a lazy day to refresh your body and mind at these beaches is a great idea.
6. Cycle Around the City
Hue City offers a laid-back lifestyle, perfect for cycling, where you can leisurely explore the city, its rich culture, and beautiful natural surroundings.
One route you won’t forget takes you along the north side of the Perfume River, winding through parks shaded by lush green trees, with the gentle sound of rustling leaves and the scent of fresh grass in the air. Near the water, a cool breeze awaits.
Another scenic path loops around the royal palace in the ancient citadel, lined with towering old trees and passing through gates adorned with vibrant greenery.
7. Visit a Traditional Garden House in Hue
One of the most charming ways to understand Hue’s soul is by visiting its traditional garden houses—known as nhà vườn. These homes are not only architectural gems but also living remnants of the city’s royal past.
Set in lush gardens carefully arranged according to feng shui principles, the houses were once residences of mandarins, princesses, and nobles during the Nguyen dynasty. Today, they offer visitors a peaceful retreat and a rare look into how the royal elite once lived.
Imagine walking through a green archway of tea bushes, the path winding gently to reveal a wooden house with a tiled roof nestled among frangipani and lotus ponds. The air is still, scented with the fragrance of blooming flowers. Here, time seems to slow down.
A notable example is the Ngoc Son Princess Garden House, currently preserved by Hue culture researcher Phan Thuan An. With its serene layout, traditional altars, and graceful design, it gives guests an intimate glimpse into the life of a Hue royal family member.
Visiting a garden house isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about feeling the rhythm of a city that values harmony between architecture, nature, and history.
8. Study the Trading Life of Hue People
Visit Dong Ba Market: Enter the bustling Dong Ba Market, where you can find local goods, souvenirs, and a unique local trading style. Red, green, and yellow vegetables and fruits are displayed in an eye-catching manner, and fish stores are arranged to supply fresh seafood and fish to meet daily consumption needs. The Hue Flavour Food Tour will visit Dong Ba Market, offering a variety of options, allowing you to explore the market with guidance when you join the tour.
Spend time at AEON Mall: Life is becoming increasingly modern, catering to the diverse needs of locals and tourists. Thus, AEON Mall Hue has become a modern shopping destination with international standards, offering a diverse range of shopping options in Hue City.
9. Take a Food Tour
Hue City’s cuisine is a must-experience highlight, reflecting both the royal heritage and the vibrant everyday life of its people. The flavors here are rich and distinctive—each dish is an intricate blend of spices and ingredients that tell a story, influenced by the refined cooking style of the Nguyen dynasty.
For a taste of royal dining, indulge in a meal at Y Thao Garden Restaurant, where traditional dishes are carefully prepared and presented in the style of ancient Hue royalty. Every bite transports you back to the opulence of the imperial courts.
If you’re a street food enthusiast, join a food tour with Mr. Thom, a passionate local guide who will lead you through bustling markets and food stalls. Here, you’ll savor the sizzling sounds of grilled meats, the fragrant aroma of herbs and spices, and the satisfying crunch of freshly made Bánh Khoái. This is the true essence of Hue’s culinary soul, where each dish is a flavorful story waiting to be discovered.
Leave a Comment