Welcome to Hue Vietnam! Vietnam is always an interesting destination for those who love history as well as want to learn about culture, especially Vietnamese culture. With the desire to learn about the roots, about the royal feudal culture of Vietnam or simply to experience the peaceful, simple life of a land rich in nature and beautiful space, Hue is the most interesting destination to visit in Vietnam.

1. All you should know about Hue Vietnam 

Hue, located in central Vietnam, is a city rich in history and culture, once the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty. Known for its ancient citadel, royal tombs, and pagodas, Hue offers a deep dive into Vietnam’s feudal past. The iconic Perfume River runs through the city, adding to its tranquil charm. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Hue Imperial City, enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Thien Mu Pagoda, and indulge in Hue’s famous cuisine, particularly its delicate desserts. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, Hue is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience in Vietnam.   [caption id="attachment_12502" align="aligncenter" width="800"]All you should know about Hue Vietnam All you should know about Hue Vietnam[/caption]  

1.1 Why should you visit Hue Vietnam?

So why is Hue so special and a destination that tourists should not miss? That is because Hue in Vietnam is a place that can meet all your travel needs. Hue Vietnam used to be the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty - the last feudal dynasty of Vietnam. So the atmosphere and lifestyle in Hue is very gentle and elegant, this lifestyle is reflected everywhere, from the architecture to the people, everyone exudes friendliness and gentleness. And also because this place used to be the capital, the place for the king to live, so from the scenery to the architecture of the capital, the living and working places are very charming, meticulously designed in every detail, creating a beauty that is both nostalgic and not outdated because at that time, some architectures were a combination of France and Vietnam. This will be an interesting way for visitors to better understand the culture of Vietnam, how Vietnam maintains and preserves culture from the feudal period to the present.    [caption id="attachment_12503" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Why should you visit Hue Vietnam Why should you visit Hue Vietnam[/caption]   In addition, Hue's royal cuisine is also very special because these are dishes originally served to the king and the royal family, so the dishes in Hue all have very special flavors.If tourists like to explore nature, they can visit the pine hills or go trekking in the mountainous areas. In Hue, Vietnam, tourists can learn more about Vietnamese culture and have interesting experiences through amazing activities.   

1.2 How to travel to Hue? From Hanoi to Hue Vietnam 

Unlike other tourist destinations, traveling to Hue is very convenient as visitors can travel in many different ways because Hue has a train station, airport, bus station, etc. Visitors can refer to some ways to travel to Hue 

By Plane

Flights to Hue operate frequently throughout the week. Both from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, there are multiple daily flights to Phu Bai International Airport (Hue). Major airlines like Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways usually offer several flights per day, making it convenient for travelers to find flights almost any day of the week. In general, there are dozens of flights to Hue weekly, ensuring a flexible schedule for visitors.  

By Train

There are trains running during the day and at night every day, however, due to the long travel time, visitors are usually encouraged to experience the night trains with sleeper service and after a night's rest, they will also have time to visit Hue more fully the next day. This scenic train ride offers passengers the chance to experience the stunning landscapes of Central Vietnam, passing through lush mountains, peaceful countryside, and along the famous Hai Van Pass, known for its breathtaking coastal views. The train is designed to reflect the cultural heritage of the region, with traditional decor and comfortable amenities, making it a unique and immersive journey for both locals and tourists alike.  

By Sleeper Bus

This is another option for tourists considering travel to Hue. Sleeper buses offer the convenience of overnight rest, as most buses depart at 7 pm daily. However, it's important for visitors to carefully check photos of the buses before booking, as bed types may vary depending on the company. Selecting a comfortable option is key to ensuring a good night's sleep because you might have to stay in the car for nearly 20 hours based on where you started. Visitors should pay attention to the rest stops along the route, as some buses do not have onboard restrooms, and passengers will need to use facilities at the stopovers. Remember to prepare medicines if you get car sick easily because the journey will pass through mountainous terrain.   

By Private Car

Since this is a special service, make sure to have a driver who knows the route when renting a car to ensure safety and can fit into your schedule.  

1.3 What you should prepare for Hue Vietnam weather

Due to Hue's geographical location in Central Vietnam, the weather here will be divided into two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.    Therefore, the most appropriate time to travel to Hue is from November to February next year, when the weather will not be too hot, cool and not the peak tourist season to avoid crowding.    [caption id="attachment_12504" align="aligncenter" width="800"]What travelers should prepare for Hue Vietnam weather What travelers should prepare for Hue Vietnam weather[/caption]   When traveling in Hue as well as the whole of Central Vietnam in hot weather, visitors should carefully prepare sunscreen or umbrellas and shirts to protect from the sun. For the rainy season, visitors do not need to worry too much about the flood situation in Vietnam because most of the storm and flood time do not last, and the recovery time is also very fast.  In particular, after this time, Hue will have light and drizzled rains,visitors can rest at roadside cafes, and while visitors are waiting for the rain to stop, have a hot coffee and enjoy the romantic scenery of Hue when it rains.  

2. Enjoy and capture every peaceful moments in Hue

Hue stands out as a tourist destination with a historical tourist destination, imbued with the culture of Vietnam from feudal times. Visitors will experience a cultural space imbued with the traditional characteristics of Vietnam from ancient times, especially when almost all historical relics in Hue have been preserved and maintained until now. Or visitors can experience exciting activities and this will be the best cultural trip of your life because these are activities that only Hue has. Besides, try to enjoy the taste of Hue's dishes with rich flavors. Hue specialties are the pinnacle of Vietnamese culinary art because it always contains quintessence and sophistication. The whole country of Vietnam has about 3,000 dishes, while Hue alone has about 1,300 dishes. In particular, there were about 700 outstanding folk dishes. 

2.1 Places to see in Hue Vietnam

Hue Imperial city 

As a place once known as the capital, visitors should definitely take the time to explore the entire Hue ancient capital relic site. The first destination is the Hue Imperial City. The Hue Imperial City was built from the early 19th century to the first half of the 20th century, and is one of the relics belonging to the Hue Monuments Complex recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site since 1993. The entire Hue Imperial City still retains many unique marks of the Nguyen Dynasty's feudal court for hundreds of years. Because this was once the place where the Nguyen Dynasty kings lived and worked, the architecture and surrounding scenery are all very beautiful, luxurious enough to match the king's style and also have a comfortable entertainment space with royal gardens, tennis courts, and villas reserved for the king in the past.    [caption id="attachment_12505" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Hue Imperial city Hue Imperial city[/caption]   The Imperial City is very large with many architectural structures such as Ngo Mon Gate, which is the entrance to the Hue Imperial City, Thai Hoa Palace where the king worked, or the villas where the king and the royal family lived. When visiting, visitors should get a map of the Imperial City at the ticket counter to avoid getting lost and save time visiting. Visitors should note that the entrance ticket to the Imperial City is 200,000 VND/ticket (about 8 USD) and to be more convenient and easier in learning about Hue Imperial City, visitors will also have two options: listen to audio commentary by renting a listening device for 100,000 VND (about 4 USD) or hire a tour guide with the price depending on the time and the number of individual or group guests, both of these services are purchased at the ticket counter.  

Khai Dinh Mausoleum 

Khai Dinh Mausoleum or Khai Dinh Tomb is considered one of the most beautiful royal tombs in Hue. Although the area of ​​the tomb is quite small and close to the mountainside, visitors to the tomb will have to climb the stairs to get inside the tomb, but visitors will be overwhelmed by the majesty in the decoration of this tomb. The construction and decoration team at that time were not only skilled Vietnamese workers, closely associated with traditional architecture, but the tomb also impressed when combined with architecture and construction materials from France. Because of that, the beauty and grandeur of the tomb is a combination of the architectural quintessence of Vietnam and France. There are also many relics and ancient paintings of King Khai Dinh on display so that visitors can learn more about this king.   [caption id="attachment_12506" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Khai Dinh Mausoleum Khai Dinh Mausoleum[/caption] The entrance fee to Khai Dinh Tomb is 150,000 VND (about 6 USD) and there is a tour guide service here.  

Tu Duc Mausoleum

If Khai Dinh Tomb impresses with its splendor and magnificence, Tu Duc Mausoleum or Tu Duc Tomb will be a very peaceful destination. The reason why Tu Duc Tomb was named Khiem Lang by King Tu Duc and Khiem in the name of the tomb means modesty is because the tomb was built very simply. Tu Duc Tomb has a peaceful and gentle beauty, because before being the final resting place of the king, this was once a place where the king often visited to rest during his lifetime. The king would often relax and recite poetry, play chess at the fish pond with a quiet mountain view. Visitors can visit and feed the fish in the pond in the tomb as well as visit the towers in Tu Duc Tomb, these towers are also decorated with bold and traditional colors of the Vietnamese royal family.   [caption id="attachment_12507" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Tu Duc Mausoleum Tu Duc Mausoleum[/caption]   The entrance fee to Tu Duc Tomb is 150,000 VND (about 6 USD) and there is a tour guide service here.  

Minh Mang Mausoleum 

The Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang, located about 12 km from the center of Hue, is one of the most beautiful tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty, renowned for its traditional architecture harmoniously blending with nature. Constructed from 1840 and completed in 1843, the mausoleum is set amidst stunning mountains and rivers. Visitors can engage in several special activities at the mausoleum, such as exploring its intricate gardens, taking part in traditional ceremonies, and enjoying scenic boat rides on the nearby Perfume River. The site also features various unique structures, including pavilions, bridges, and stone statues that reflect the cultural heritage of the era.   [caption id="attachment_12508" align="alignnone" width="800"]Minh Mang Mausoleum Minh Mang Mausoleum[/caption] The entrance fee to Minh Mang Mausoleum is 150,000 VND (about 6 USD) and there is a tour guide service here.  

An Dinh Palace

An Dinh Palace Hue was built in 1917, the second year of Khai Dinh. Before that, at this location, Phung Hoa Cong Nguyen Phuc Buu Dao established the palace, named An Dinh Palace. After ascending the throne, King Khai Dinh renovated the palace and passed it on to Prince Vinh Thuy, who was also King Bao Dai later. Both King Khai Dinh and King Bao Dai were art lovers and had a lot of contact with French art and architecture, so when building and renovating, An Dinh Palace, although built during the feudal period, had both traditional and modern beauty with Vietnamese architectural and decorative arts and French superstructure. During the renovation process, the king even completely demolished the old building to start building the new one. From then on, the palace was changed to An Dinh Palace after the power of King Bao Dai was transferred. In 1945, King Bao Dai's family, with a lifestyle that mixed Catholicism and Buddhism, moved from the Royal Palace to live here, but only for a short time.   [caption id="attachment_12509" align="aligncenter" width="800"]An Dinh Palace An Dinh Palace[/caption]   The entrance fee to An Dinh Palace is 50,000 VND (about 2 USD) and tourists can visit the palace by themselves.   

Thien Mu pagoda 

Thien Mu Pagoda, located on the banks of the Perfume River in Hue, is one of Vietnam's most iconic and ancient temples. Built in 1601, it is known for its striking 7-story Phuoc Duyen Tower, beautiful gardens, and peaceful atmosphere. The pagoda holds significant historical and cultural importance, attracting both tourists and locals seeking spiritual reflection and a glimpse into Vietnam's rich heritage.   [caption id="attachment_12510" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Thien Mu pagoda Thien Mu pagoda[/caption]  

2.2 Experiences that tourist should not miss while visit Hue Vietnam 

Experience the Hue Royal Court Live Music

When visiting Hue, one must experience Hue Royal Court Music performed on the Perfume River. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, this traditional court music was once reserved for royal ceremonies and reflects the refined culture of the Nguyen Dynasty. It is a unique blend of music, dance, and poetry, offering insight into Vietnam’s royal history.   [caption id="attachment_12511" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Experience the Hue Royal Court Live Music Experience the Hue Royal Court Live Music[/caption]   Cruising on the Perfume River while listening to this elegant music creates an unforgettable atmosphere, with the gentle river and picturesque surroundings adding to the charm. Visiting the Perfume River is essential when in Hue, not only for the cultural experiences like Nha Nhac but also for its peaceful beauty, especially at sunset. The river holds a special place in the hearts of locals and is deeply tied to Hue’s history and identity.  

Enjoy tea at An Hien ancient house and garden 

Another must-do experience in Hue is enjoying tea at the An Hien Garden House. This centuries-old house, known for its traditional architecture and serene garden, offers visitors a glimpse into the elegance of Hue’s past. The house was once home to royal descendants and prominent families, and it remains a symbol of Hue’s refined lifestyle.   [caption id="attachment_12512" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Enjoy tea at An Hien ancient house and garden Enjoy tea at An Hien ancient house and garden[/caption]   Sipping tea in the tranquil garden surrounded by ancient trees and fragrant flowers is a peaceful, meditative experience. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of Hue’s cultural heritage, where time seems to slow down, offering a retreat from the hustle and bustle.  

Night city tour by cyclo

Life in Hue is very peaceful, and the way to visit the beauty of this city, especially at night, is to visit by cyclo. Cyclo is an extremely convenient means of transportation for tourists to choose to visit, admire the palaces with sparkling lights or the simple local life at night. Moreover, most of the cyclo drivers are locals, so when tourists choose to travel by cyclo, they can support the local community a lot as well as a great way to protect the environment.   [caption id="attachment_12513" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Night city tour by cyclo Night city tour by cyclo[/caption]  

Buy souvenirs and Food tour at Dong Ba market 

A visit to Dong Ba Market is a vibrant cultural experience and the perfect opportunity to shop for local souvenirs. This bustling market offers a wide variety of items, from traditional handicrafts like conical hats, silk scarves, and embroidered textiles, to local specialties such as dried fruits, spices, and delicious snacks. It’s a great place to pick up authentic mementos of Hue and interact with friendly vendors who proudly represent the region’s rich traditions.   [caption id="attachment_12514" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Buy souvenirs and Food tour at Dong Ba market Buy souvenirs and Food tour at Dong Ba market[/caption]   Food in Hue is also very reasonable, so if you have the opportunity to visit Dong Ba market, don't forget to try the delicious traditional and local dishes here. In Vietnam, bargaining when buying and selling is very normal, so visitors should feel comfortable when bargaining to be able to buy at the most reasonable price.  

Relax at Lang Co beach 

After exploring Hue’s cultural treasures, unwind at Lang Co Beach, one of the most beautiful coastal spots in Central Vietnam. With its white sandy shores, clear blue waters, and a peaceful atmosphere, it's the ideal place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Whether swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the stunning sunset, Lang Co Beach offers a refreshing break from the historical and cultural explorations of Hue.   [caption id="attachment_12515" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Relax at Lang Co beach Relax at Lang Co beach[/caption]  

2.3 What to eat in Hue Vietnam 

Hue beef noodle soup

When in Hue, Hue beef noodle soup or Bun bo Hue is a must-try dish. This spicy beef noodle soup is made with a rich broth flavored with lemongrass, chili oil, and shrimp paste, served with tender beef, pork, and thick rice noodles. The combination of spicy, savory, and slightly sour flavors makes it a true culinary highlight of Hue. However, visitors with seafood allergies should be cautious as shrimp paste is a key ingredient in the broth.   [caption id="attachment_12516" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Hue beef noodle soup Hue beef noodle soup[/caption]   When eating Hue beef noodle soup, you will be served with a basket of fresh vegetables such as lettuce, banana flowers,...and fried breadsticks. With a warm and rich soup, whether it is summer or winter, this is still a specialty of Hue and always attracts tourists to experience for its flavorful taste.   

Beo steamed rice cake 

Another popular dish is Banh Beo, a delicate steamed rice cake topped with crispy shrimp, fried shallots, and a drizzle of savory sauce. It offers a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a mildly sweet and salty taste. While it’s a light and enjoyable snack, travelers with seafood allergies should be aware that the topping usually includes shrimp.   [caption id="attachment_12518" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Beo steamed rice cake Beo steamed rice cake[/caption]  

A great combination - Banh Xeo Vietnamese pancake and grilled spring roll Nem Lui 

For something crispy and flavorful, try Banh Xeo, a Vietnamese savory pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. It’s known for its crispy outer layer and savory filling, served with fresh herbs and a tangy dipping sauce. Travelers with seafood or peanut allergies should check the ingredients, especially in the dipping sauce.   [caption id="attachment_12517" align="aligncenter" width="800"]A great combination - Banh Xeo Vietnamese pancake and grilled spring roll Nem Lui A great combination - Banh Xeo Vietnamese pancake and grilled spring roll Nem Lui[/caption] Nem Lui, grilled pork skewers wrapped around lemongrass stalks, complements Banh Xeo perfectly. Served with fresh herbs, rice paper, and a peanut dipping sauce, it offers a fragrant, savory flavor with a hint of smokiness from the grill. If you’re allergic to peanuts, make sure to request an alternative dipping sauce or skip it altogether.  

Salt Coffee - Hue’s signature 

  [caption id="attachment_12519" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Salt Coffee - Hue’s signature Salt Coffee - Hue’s signature[/caption]   Each region of Vietnam will have different tastes and the same goes for coffee. If in the North, Hanoi is famous for egg coffee; in the South, Ho Chi Minh has iced milk coffee; in the Central region, Hue has salt coffee. For a unique beverage, try salt coffee, a distinctive drink made with strong Vietnamese coffee topped with a sprinkle of salt and sometimes a touch of butter. The combination of bitter coffee and savory salt creates a surprisingly delightful flavor experience. While generally safe for most, those with specific dietary restrictions should check the ingredients in the coffee preparation.  

Hue sweet porridge 

Lastly, don’t miss Hue sweet porridge, a sweet soup that comes in a variety of flavors and textures, often made with beans, coconut milk, lotus seeds, and fruits. Each type has a unique blend of sweet and creamy flavors, making it a refreshing treat. However, some versions of Chè contain peanuts or coconut milk, so it’s essential to check the ingredients if you have nut allergies.   [caption id="attachment_12520" align="alignnone" width="800"]Hue sweet porridge Hue sweet porridge[/caption]   General Note for Tourists:Many dishes in Hue include ingredients like shrimp, peanuts, or fish sauce. If you have allergies, it’s important to inform the restaurant staff in advance and inquire about specific ingredients in the dishes.   Visit Hue in a family trip with Asia Viva Travel in lots of tours and amazing other destinations: https://asiavivatravel.com/vietnam-family-trip-15-days-truly-colorful-image  https://asiavivatravel.com/en/vietnam-family-tour-15-days-landscape-beach https://asiavivatravel.com/vietnam-itinerary-14-days-escapade-to-dragon-shaped-country

3. Conclusion

In conclusion, Hue stands as a gateway to Vietnam's rich past and vibrant culture, offering visitors a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring the ancient citadels, enjoying the serene atmosphere by the Perfume River, or savoring Hue's renowned cuisine, this charming city promises an unforgettable journey. For those seeking a deeper understanding of Vietnam's heritage and a peaceful retreat into its tranquil landscapes, Hue is truly a must-visit destination.   At Asia Viva Travel, we are committed to supporting society, especially in Vietnam’s remote regions. By traveling with us, you help support local tourism workers and contribute to building schools and providing free lunches for disadvantaged children in North Vietnam’s mountains. Join us to help build a better future for Vietnam’s children and vulnerable communities in the “Nuôi em” project .