Hue
Quiet, reflective and deeply historical
Hue is best explored slowly, with time to understand how imperial life, river culture and everyday Vietnam overlap.
A To-Do List to Truly Feel Hue
1. Cycle around the old town
Cycling is one of the best ways to experience Hue. The terrain is flat, traffic is calmer than in larger cities, and riding around the old town and along the river gives you a strong sense of local rhythm.
2. Visit the Imperial City and Forbidden Palace
The Imperial City of Huế is essential. Once the seat of the Nguyen emperors, it offers a powerful introduction to Vietnam’s imperial past. Allow plenty of time to wander rather than rushing between buildings.
3. Explore the Emperor’s Tombs thoughtfully
Visiting the royal tombs is one of the most rewarding experiences in Hue. The three most compelling are:
Other tombs are also interesting, but trying to see them all in one day often diminishes the experience. Fewer sites, explored more deeply, gives better historical context.
4. Take a boat trip on the Perfume River
A particularly rewarding way to reach the tombs is by boat along the Perfume River.
Start with a stop at Thien Mu Pagoda, then continue upstream to Vọng Cảnh Boat Station.
From the boat station, walk uphill past an old war bunker, through Điểm Xanh Park, and on towards your chosen tombs. Google Maps is essential if you plan to wander independently. Allow several hours to explore at a relaxed pace.
5. Return to Hue your own way
After visiting the tombs, you have a few good options:
• Take a Grab taxi back into the city
• Pre-arrange for your boat to collect you again at the boat station at a time of your choosing
Most hotels can help organise boats, or you can arrange one yourself at Bến thuyền Tòa Khâm if you are feeling adventurous.
6. Eat Hue’s street food
Hue is nationally regarded as one of Vietnam’s best food cities. Do not miss local specialities such as:
• Bún bò Huế, a rich and aromatic beef noodle soup
• Small plate dishes like bánh bèo, bánh nậm and bánh lọc
Street food here is refined, flavourful and deeply tied to imperial traditions.
7. Visit Dong Ba Market
Dong Ba Market is lively, local and full of colour. It is a great place to try snacks, see daily life up close and pick up small souvenirs.
8. Escape into nature
For a change of pace, head beyond the city to tranquil landscapes such as Bach Ma National Park, known for its cooler climate, forest walks and scenic viewpoints.
9. Embrace the slower tempo
Hue is calmer than many Vietnamese cities. Evenings are quieter, conversations softer, and the city rewards observation rather than constant activity.
10. Let history linger
Hue is not just about monuments. It is about atmosphere. Sit by the river, cycle without urgency, and allow the past to feel present rather than distant.