Hue walking tour & city guide
The old imperial capital on the Perfume River.
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Hue was the capital of Vietnam's last royal dynasty, the Nguyen, from 1802 to 1945. On the banks of the Perfume River, its walled citadel, royal tombs and pagodas form a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the city keeps a calm, poetic atmosphere and a refined culinary tradition.
The Imperial City
The Citadel is surrounded by thick walls and a moat. Inside lies the Imperial City, with the Noon Gate, the Thai Hoa Palace, where emperors held ceremonies, and the remains of the Forbidden Purple City, which was reserved for the emperor and his family. Much was damaged during the wars, but restoration continues and the gardens and pavilions are very atmospheric.
Tombs, pagodas and the river
In the hills south of the city, the emperors built elaborate tombs set in landscaped gardens. The tomb of Tu Duc has lakes and pavilions, while the tomb of Khai Dinh mixes Vietnamese and European styles with dazzling glass and porcelain mosaics inside. The tomb of Minh Mang is known for its harmonious layout.
The seven-story tower of the Thien Mu Pagoda overlooks the Perfume River and is a symbol of Hue. Dragon boats cruise the river, and the city comes alive in the evening along the riverside walking streets.
Visiting tips
Hue is about two to three hours from Da Nang and Hoi An, via the Hai Van Pass or by train. It rains a lot from September to December. A combined ticket covers the Imperial City and several tombs.
Top sights in Hue
- 1
Imperial City
The walled palace of the Nguyen emperors.
- 2
Thien Mu Pagoda
A seven-story tower by the river.
- 3
Tomb of Khai Dinh
A tomb with glittering mosaics.
- 4
Tomb of Tu Duc
A tomb set in gardens and lakes.
- 5
Perfume River
Dragon boat cruises.
- 6
Dong Ba Market
The city's main market.
Food markets & where to eat in Hue
Dong Ba Market
Hue's biggest market, with food stalls.
Pham Ngu Lao walking street
Bars and street food near the river.
Riverside night market
Snacks and sweet soups in the evening.
Local street stalls
Small family stalls with Hue specialties.
Food to try in Hue
Bun bo Hue
A spicy beef and lemongrass noodle soup.
Banh khoai
A crispy pancake with shrimp and pork.
Banh beo
Small steamed rice cakes with dried shrimp.
Che Hue
Sweet dessert soups in many flavors.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Hue
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in HueCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Hue.
- eSIM for VietnamStay online from the moment you land.
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