Top 10 Best Things to Do in Hue: Your Essential Travel Checklist

From the moment you set foot in Hue, you’ll be transported back in time, immersed in the captivating legacy of Vietnam’s dynastic past. So prepare to be enchanted by this former imperial capital, where thousands of wonderful things to do in Hue await to captivate the senses of families, backpackers, and history enthusiasts alike.

Get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with awe-inspiring sights, flavors that tantalize the palate, and experiences that will leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.

Top 10 Things to Do in Hue for an Unforgettable Vietnamese Adventure

Wander through Hue Imperial City

Exploring the Imperial City is the most essential activity when visiting Hue. The former capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945) boasts iconic landmarks such as the Imperial Citadel, Flag Tower, and Forbidden Purple City. 

Another highlight is the Forbidden Purple City, which showcases intricate architecture and serene gardens that reflect imperial grandeur. Take guided tours to delve deeper into the rich history and cultural significance of these revered sites within Hue’s ancient walls.

Tips you should know:

• The daytime entrance fee to Hue Imperial Citadel is $8.70 for adults, while children aged 7 to 12 pay $1.74.
• The time to visit Hue Citadel at night is from 19:00 to 22:00 daily. The ticket prices are $5.22 for domestic tourists and $6.53 for international visitors. 

Cruise the Perfume River by boat

Let’s unwind on a traditional wooden boat while exploring the Perfume River. Boats crafted from wood and steeped in local tradition navigate this fragrant waterway. Once aboard, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Hue’s landscape, including ancient pagodas, verdant forests, and picturesque limestone cliffs that adorn the riverbanks. 

These boat tours also provide insights into local life as they pass by traditional villages, offering a glimpse into Hue’s cultural heritage and daily rhythms. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy year-round angling, with springtime offering prime opportunities due to increased fish activity.

Tips you should know:

• The double dragon boat can hold up to 30 passengers, while the single dragon boat has a maximum capacity of 10 people. 
• Pickup and drop-off are at Toa Kham Tourist Boat Wharf, located at 49 Le Loi in Hue City.

> Visit Perfume River in this tour: Vietnam Essentials

Relax on stunning Lang Co Beach

While Hue boasts historical wonders, a trip wouldn’t be complete without unwinding on Lang Co Beach, a must-do for any visitor seeking relaxation. Imagine this: pristine white sand stretches endlessly, meeting turquoise waters ideal for swimming or simply soaking up the sun. Lush greenery and swaying palm trees frame the scene, offering a picture-perfect backdrop. 

For those looking for adventure, water sports such as kayaking or jet skiing offer an exhilarating escape. If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, you can go hiking or cycling through nearby villages, or explore the vibrant markets filled with traditional Vietnamese delicacies and handcrafted souvenirs.

After a day of adventure, choose from various accommodations, including luxurious beachfront villas. Lang Co Beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, making it an unforgettable experience for your Hue trip.

Tips you should know: The center is still 60 kilometers away by car. Before reaching the Hai Van Pass, you may choose to stay overnight, go on a day trip, or make it the halfway point between Hue and Da Nang.

Experience serenity at Thien Mu Pagoda

Thien Mu Pagoda, located on the bank of the Perfume River, is a symbol of Buddhism in Vietnam. The beauty and grandeur of the temple will amaze every visitor once arriving. Two large stone lions guard the entrance, and inside, you will find several shrines dedicated to various Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. 

The main attraction is the seven-story tower known as “Heaven’s Gate” or “Thap Phuoc Duyen,” built in 1844 to honor a monk who dedicated his life to spreading Buddhism in Vietnam. Surrounded by lush gardens, fragrant flowers, and tranquil ponds, Thien Mu Pagoda offers a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation and meditation.

Tips you should know: The pagoda is open every day from 8:00 to 17:00, with the free entrance fee. You can take a boat on the river or drive along its banks to get to the pagoda.

> See tour: Exploring Vietnam’s Arts & Crafts

Explore ancient tombs and majestic mausoleums

No historical buff should ignore the age-old tombs and magnificent mausoleums scattered around Hue. These captivating sites, like King Thieu Tri’s tomb, the Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang, and the iconic Tu Duc Tomb, provide a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past. 

Each complex boasts unique architectural styles and serene gardens, offering a fascinating look at royal life. For example, the Tu Duc Tomb, built in the mid-1800s, features pavilions, bridges, and an artificial island tomb, showcasing the grandeur of the era. Exploring these architectural wonders is a must-try in Hue.

Tips you should know:

• Each of these three tombs is located about 5 km (3 miles) from downtown Hue, necessitating transportation via cyclo or Grab.
• The entrance fee is around $7 per tomb. Combination tickets are also available: one includes the Imperial City and two tombs (Minh Mang, Khai Dinh) for $19, or three tombs (Minh Mang, Khai Dinh, Tu Duc) for $24.

Shop for treasures at Dong Ba Market

Hue’s Dong Ba Market is a feast for the senses and an unmissable part of any things to do in Hue list. This bustling hub explodes with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and the friendly chatter of vendors and shoppers. Fresh produce towers in colorful piles, hand-crafted treasures line the aisles, and the air hums with the energy of generations-old traditions. 

Explore sections overflowing with everything from silk scarves and lacquerware to live chickens and steaming bowls of local delicacies. Haggling is a fun part of the experience, so brush up on your bargaining skills and prepare to bring home unique souvenirs while immersing yourself in Hue’s vibrant culture.

Tips you should know: Every day at 18:00, the Dong Ba Night Market opens on the front side. It exhibits a different beauty at night with various food vendors, creating a place for this city’s culinary culture. 

Bike through the city streets

Hue’s reputation as a cyclist’s paradise is well-deserved. With light traffic and wide streets, exploring the city on two wheels is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Hue. Cruise along the scenic Huong River to the Imperial Citadel or weave through the charming backstreets, stopping at hidden temples. Many hotels offer free bikes, with rentals readily available downtown for a minimal fee.

For the adventurous cyclist, Hue’s countryside beckons. Escape the city limits and delve into the tranquil farmlands. Guided bike tours are available, providing a safe and informative way to explore off-the-beaten-path gems. This authentic experience will take you through unseen corners of Hue, offering a truly calming escape.

Tips you should know: If you’d rather not ride a bike, you may take a classic cyclo ride. A cyclo is a kind of bicycle taxi with three wheels that first emerged in Vietnam during the French colonial period.

> You might want to know: Vietnam Cycling Tours – Perfect Sites For Bike Tours and Essential Tips

Uncover the mystery of an abandoned water park

For photography enthusiasts and urban explorers, a visit to Ho Thuy Tien is an interesting option. This once-joyful water park, now abandoned for over a decade, sits on a lake just outside the city limits. Crumbling structures and overgrown foliage create an atmosphere eerily reminiscent of a horror movie. 

A dragon’s head, the park’s centerpiece, emerges from the lake’s center, guarding empty pools and forgotten slides. While not an official tourist attraction, venturing into this forgotten fairytale can be a unique addition to your Hue itinerary. Just be sure to wear sturdy shoes, as broken glass may be on the ground.

Tips you should know: 

• Since the park is abandoned, it may not be a safe location to go.
• The entrance may be guarded; you may pay between $0,5 and $1 to go inside.

Delight in delicious local cuisine

A trip to Hue wouldn’t be complete without delving into its delectable cuisine, a true highlight of any visit. From bustling street markets overflowing with fresh ingredients and steaming bowls of bun bo hue (spicy beef noodle soup) to upscale restaurants serving both classic dishes and creative fusion creations, Hue caters to every palate.

Cooking classes and food tours delve deeper, allowing you to learn the secrets behind these delectable dishes and become a temporary Huevian chef yourself. So, come hungry and prepare to be impressed by the depth and deliciousness of Hue’s culinary scene – it’s simply unmissable among the many things to do in Hue.

Suggested street vendors to visit:

• Grilled pork sausages Nhu Y: 102 Nguyen Sinh Cung Street
• Beef noodles soup My Tam: 24 Le Duan Street
• Breads (banh my) under Trang Tien Bridge
• Hue sweet soups: 29 Hung Vuong Street
• Pho O Tung: Mai Thuc Loan Street
• Eel soup Mr.Nen: Block A5 Phan Van Truong Street
• Dong Ba Market food stalls

> Read more: Top 9 Tasty Food Souvenirs From Vietnam

Immerse yourself in traditional royal court music

One of the most captivating things to do in Hue is to immerse yourself in traditional royal court music, also known as Nha Nhac. Recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage, Nha Nhac offers a window into Vietnamese court culture.

These sophisticated melodies, often performed with both traditional and modern instruments, were historically used during royal ceremonies and dances. While traditional folk music is readily available on dragon boat trips, attending a Nha Nhac performance allows you to experience a rarer and more refined art form. The Hue Academy of Music offers free weekly performances, making this an extraordinary cultural immersion opportunity in Hue.

Tips you should know:

• A dragon boat excursion ticket, including folk music performances, costs $5 – $10.
• In addition to the nighttime, daytime dragon boat trips are also offered.

Don’t Just Dream It, Live It: Design Your Perfect Hue Itinerary with Asia Trip Deals

You have just reviewed the top 10 unforgettable things to do in Hue. This city offers a captivating blend of historical immersion, cultural exploration, and natural beauty. From exploring the majestic Imperial City to unwinding on a Perfume River cruise, Hue caters to various interests. Whether you crave historical insights or seek tranquil escapes, Hue promises an unforgettable experience. 

Don’t just read about it – make it a reality! Reach out to the experts at Asia Trip Deals and craft the perfect itinerary tailored to your passions and preferences. Let’s unlock the doors to an unforgettable adventure, where memories are made and the essence of Vietnam’s rich heritage is truly savored.