15 Best Things To Do In Hue

Your vacation wouldn’t be complete without exploring Hue while you are in Vietnam. This place is very rich in culture and heritage and makes it the most loved destination by all. There are many sightseeing options where you can visit while you are vacationing in Vietnam.

From learning about the culture to exploring some exotic beach Hue has it all. Whether you are with your friends or family you should definitely explore all the amazing places. The Hao Palace, Tomb of Tu Duc, Forbidden Purple city, Thanh Toan Bridge etc are few of the best places you should definitely visit while you are in this town.

Here is the list of things to do in Hue you should definitely visit during your vacation:

01

Imperial City

Image Credit : archer10 (Dennis)

The Imperial city in hue is a prominent historic sight and landmark in the city which attracts a number of visitors all round the year to its rustic surroundings and marvellous creations. The imperial city was formerly the site for the old capital city and hence, an important site in the city. It is prominently marked by a moat and ten ornate gates which guard the palace and maintain its integrity. The gates also act as a guard to the numerous gardens and tombs situated here. Among the many features of this city is the flagship tall flag tower.

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Location: The imperial city is located in the Thua Thien Hue province in Vietnam city.

Highlights: The walled fortress is a complete repertoire of cultural history and an expanse of beautiful constructions, worth a visit.

Best time to visit: One can visit during cool season to avoid the sweltering heat.

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02

Bach Ma National Park

Bach Ma National Park in city of Hue is a very well known national park, filled with the beauty of the nature and greenery. Owing to the prominent location and importance of the national park, it has been declared as a protected area. The park covers an area of 220 square kilometre in all and is comprised of three zones including a strictly prohibited core area, administrative area, and a buffer zone. In spite of its abundant beauty, the national park also has immense history associated with it.

Location: The Bach Ma National Park is conveniently located in the Annamite Mountains, which happens to be one of the wettest places in Vietnam.

Highlights: Located in Central Vietnam, the Bach Ma National Park is rich in biodiversity and consists of vegetation like moist evergreen and montane forest. Some mammals can also be found inside the park.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year.

Read More: Places To Visit in Vietnam

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03

Tomb of Khai Dinh

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The tomb of Khai Dinh in hue is a prominent historic landmark in the city and a point of interest for visitors. The tomb has been built in remembrance of Emperor Khai Dinh who ruled Vietnam and under whose influence, the city witnessed the emergence of western culture. Thus, western culture and architecture is clearly visible in the construction of this edifice. Traces of oriental architecture are also visible around the construction. Construction on the tomb was concluded in the year 1931.

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Location: The tomb of Khai Dinh lies on a steep hill in the Huong Thuy province in Vietnam.

Highlights: Despite its historic prominence, the tomb has been constructed using materials of modern day construction including cement and electricity. One can get a glimpse of authentic Eastern and Western art from the period under one roof in this tomb.

Best time to visit: Visit to the tomb is preferred during winter season.

Must Read: Places To Visit in Ho Chin Minh

04

Mount Ngu Binh

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The Mount Ngu Binh in Hue is often described as an ascending beauty. The architectural edifice lies on top of the Ngu Binh mountain, exhibiting a picturesque view of a strikingly symmetric figure. The mount is considered to be an invaluable gift endowed by the nature to this city. The area is surrounded by an immense expanse of natural and scenic views that together enhance the enticing attractiveness of the place. Earlier, it was called the Nui Bang. The flat top of the mount is encircled with pine trees on all sides.

Location: Ngu Binh is a mountain that is located in Vietnam.

Highlights: The mount Ngu Binh reaches a height of 105 metre with a symmetrical view. On either side of the mount are two small mounts as well. After the perfume river, the mount is considered to be the second best wonder of nature bestowed upon this land.

Read More: Activities To Do In Hanoi?

05

Thien Mu Pagoda

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The Thien Mu Pagoda is a well known sacred and religious site in the city of Hue. As an important landmark in the city, this pagoda is still in use in the present day by Buddhists. One can reach here via a boat ride, which is an adventure in itself. Once here, one can benefit for the twin views of the surrounding area and the popular perfume lake. The inside of the pagoda offers a nice and peaceful aura for relaxation and exploration. The history of the pagoda is immensely deep so it is a nice place to explore the culture of the city at the pagoda.

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Location: The Thien Mu Pagoda is located on the banks of the perfume river in Vietnam.

Highlights: The pagoda is highly recognisable as a landmark in the city, consisting of a seven tiered monument and a bell tower.

Best time to visit: All year

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06

The Mieu

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The Mieu in hue city is another prominent landmark of religious sanctity, whereby, a beautiful temple is constructed, eligible for viewing and exploring. The ancestral temple dedicated to the Emperors of the city and was constructed under the kingship of Minh Mang in the year 1823. The divine purpose for the construction of the temple lay in offering a platform for the worship of previous rulers of the Nguyen dynasty. A prominent feature of the temple is the construction of nine urns in front of the temple in dedication to the rulers.

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Location: The Mieu temple is located in the Imperial city in Vietnam.

Highlights: The temple is a part of a three building complex which is sight to the numerous pictures of the rulers of the Nguyen dynasty. This is a nice place to come and meet knowledgeable monks.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year.

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07

Thai Hoa Palace

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For a city that is filled with repertoire of historical landmarks and sightseeing opportunities, Vietnam does not fail to impress once again with the historical Thai Hoa Palace, which is again, a prominent landmark in the city and a historical castle. Although the palace is nothing too elaborate and alluring at first sight, however, once within the precincts, one will be able to observe and appreciate the numerous symbolic statues that line within the captivating palace. The main entrance of the palace is a glimpse into the rich history of the city. The palace is influenced by the Chinese style of construction and was used in the earlier centuries by emperors for holding relevant meetings and ceremonies.

Thai Hoa Palace

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Location: The palace is located within the imperial city in Vietnam. Highlights: The palace is also popular by the name ‘Palace of Supreme harmony’. The spacious hall boasts of ornate timber roof construction.

Best time: All year

08

Royal Tombs

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The Royal tombs in Hue are another prominent sightseeing destination in the city of Vietnam. These tombs are a collection of ancient ruins and cemeteries which have now come to form an important focal point for tourist activity. Since the city of Hue was a prominent capital of Vietnam and home to the emperors of the place, therefore, the tombs of these emperors has been erected along the perfume river, marking the history of the rulers of the Nguyen dynasty. The three famous tombs are Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, and the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh.

Royal Tombs

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Location: The tombs are located alongside the perfume river in the city.

Highlights: The tombs merit a visit owing to the rich history that comes to be associated with their erection and their construction.

Best time to visit: For sightseeing, it is best to travel on a cool day.

09

Tomb of Tu Duc

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The tomb of Tu Duc is Hue city is an important landmark that marks the history of another great Emperor of the city. The tomb is the final resting place of the great emperor who happened to be a great ruler as well as a scholar. The tomb had been erected before his actual death. The place is marked as an alluring landmark owing to the presence of a lake, a pavilion and a theatre. The tomb has been divided into a temple area and a tomb area. An ironical feature though lies in a secret location that is the actual burying ground for the emperor, instead of the tomb where he was supposed to be buried.

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Location: The tomb of Tu Duc lies along the perfume rive in the city.

Highlights: The historical landmark is expressive of the history and culture of the era of the emperor.

Best time: Any time of the year.

10

Forbidden Purple City

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The Forbidden purple city is a repertoire of history and culture from the ancient era and symbolises the historic relevance of the city of Hue. Today, what remains of the purple city are charred remains of the royal family’s inner sanctum. These remains occupy the area within the citadel. Having been partially rebuilt, the landmark is under consideration for further renovation and restoration projects. When visiting this place, one can observe and explore the various incidents of wars that might have waged through the city, reflecting along every construction.

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Location: The forbidden purple city is located centrally in the Hue imperial city, hence easily accessible.

Highlights: The forbidden purple city is the place where the emperors and their families used to reside but during waging wars, the precincts were badly destroyed. Hence, basically the city is a collection of ruins.

Best time to visit: All round the year.

11

Thanh Toan Bridge

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The Thanh Toan Bridge in Hue city is a prominent place of attraction for the tourists who come to this city in exploration of its many historic landmarks and places. The bridge is an exemplary point to discover the historical construction of the era of the emperors. The Thanh Toan Bridge is also a perfect place to discover the beauty of the nature and the implicit little constructions along the bridge. It is also an opportunity to meet the local folk who can express more about the features of this place.

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Location: The Thanh Toan Bridge is located in the Hue city of Vietnam.

Highlights: The Thanh Toan Bridge is surrounded by the best endowed features of the nature including greenery and rice fields. This is also a nice place to observe the silence and peace of the landmark, worth a visit.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year

12

Truong Tien Bridge

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The Truong Tien Bridge in Vietnam is a prominent bridge that marks an important sight and landmark that attracts numerous visitors all round the year. The bridge is a very nice place to observe, especially during the night time when it is lit up with electrifying lights. The prominence to the markets adds glamour to the attraction. Although, the location is just a bridge but holds an immensely deep history as well. The location of the Truong Tien Bridge is apt for taking soulful photographs and observing the place.

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Location: The Truong Tien Bridge spans the distance of the Huong River in the city of Vietnam.

Highlights: The sparkling bridge is worth a visit during the night time when it is lit in full glory. The changing colours of the light lend a spectacular view of the bridge that is worth the visit.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year.

13

Perfume River

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Among the most popular and lovely attractions in the city of Vietnam is the perfume river, which is a water body and is marked by the presence of natural parks. The river literally crosses the city of Hue. The river derives its name from the flowers from various orchards, which fall into the waters of the river in the autumn season that lens a perfume like aroma to the river. The perfume river originates from two tributaries. The river has been featured in popular culture and media for its attractive beauty.

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Location: The perfume river flows through the hue city in Vietnam.

Highlights: The perfume river offers plenty of rejuvenation opportunities to its visitors who can take a boat ride on its waters. It flows through the central city and is the highlight of tourist attractions here.

Best time to visit: One can visit in cool season to enjoy the boat ride.

14

Tam Giang Lagoon

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The Tam Giang Lagoon in Hue city is a prominent water body that attracts tourists on large scale. The lagoon presents a soulful opportunity to explore the vast expanse of natural beauty and scenic views. This is also the perfect spot to explore the life of local fishermen who make a living off these waters. Sometimes, they will also allow you to join in the fishing and have local sea food too. Although the lagoon is a little away from the city, it is a visit you should not miss. The fishermen will also help you learn about the culture of this place and the history as well.

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Location: The Tam Giang Lagoon is located in the city of Hue in Vietnam.

Highlights: The quiet and mystic atmosphere of the Tam Giang Lagoon is an impressive state of ambience and is a lovely place to visit.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year

Read More: Places To Visit In Hanoi

15

Elephant Springs

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The Elephant springs is a prominent natural springs which merits a visit if you are coming for a trip to Vietnam. There is a natural pool below the waterfall here that makes for a very special dipping place. The smooth rocks below the falls and various upstreams are worth exploring and navigating. The place is often deserted during weekdays and off season, which is a nice opportunity to spend some time in privacy. Getting here is an easy task via motor cycle taxi drivers.

Image Credits : jonolist

Location: The Elephant springs are located some 53 kilometres from Hue city.

Highlights: The natural springs are worth a visit as they present an opportunity to explore the vast beauty of the nature bestowed up the city. The road that leads to the springs is very convenient for visitors and is very attractive for tourists.

Best time to visit: Weekends and during hot season are best.

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Elephant Springs

Location: The Elephant springs are located some 53 kilometres from Hue city. Highlights: The natural springs are worth a visit as they present an opportunity to explore the vast beauty of the nature bestowed up the city. The road that leads to the springs is very convenient for visitors and is very attractive for tourists. Best time to visit: Weekends and during hot season are best.For those visiting Vietnam in a group, don't miss out on the convenience and savings offered by Vietnam Group Tour Packages.

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Hue City Reviews

Tanya Reddy Tam Giang Lagoon

Excellent

The guide was very friendly and knowledgable. We are extremely grateful to Thrillophilia for giving us such a great start to our trip in Vietnam.

Leela Gill Bach Ma National Park Tour

Excellent

The trekking experience at bach ma national park was a great idea. My best trip ever with Thrillophilia. It was challenging and fun as well.

Kashyapi Agarwal Bach Ma National Park Tour

Excellent

Bach ma national park trip was truly wonderful. The pickup and drop off was on time and the food was amazing. Worth the penny!

Satyen Naik Hue Cyclo Tour

Excellent

Visiting the whole city on a cycle was a great experience. The Hue city cyclo tour guide was friendly and knowledgeable. Amazing experience!

Chandrani Pothuvaal Private Dinner Cruise on Perfume River

Excellent

Booked private dinner cruise on Perfume river with Thrillophilia and I must say it was an amazing experience. Thank you Thrillophilia for such a great day!