Hue City is known for its serene and tranquil beauty, with the local people’s gentle and dignified charm. It is also a land of intellect, with a rich history and numerous cultural heritages and unique festivals of the Nguyen Dynasty, the last feudal dynasty of Vietnam. In this article, VLS will suggest the top 9 tourist attractions in Hue that attract international tourists, especially first-time travelers!
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Hue Imperial Citadel
The Hue Imperial Citadel was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1993. Constructed over a span of approximately 30 years, it is not only the last imperial capital but also the most well-preserved architectural complex of its kind in Vietnam.
Nowadays, when visiting the Hue Imperial City, you will be able to admire the grandeur of the palaces, and the ancient and majestic features of the temples and shrines. The complex includes the Hoang Thanh, where the kings ruled, and the Tu Cam Thanh where the kings and royal family resided.
Additionally, each area has many other famous structures such as the Thai Hoa Palace, Ngo Mon Gate, and Can Chanh Palace. You can choose to explore the Hue Imperial City by cyclo or horse-drawn carriage or take a guided walking tour, listening to the guide’s analysis and stories related to the history of the Nguyen Dynasty, the activities of the Vietnamese royal court, as well as the meanings behind the architectural style of the imperial palaces.
Ticket price: Adults: 200,000 VND/pax; Children (from 7-12 years old): 40,000 VND/pax; Children under 6 years old: Free.
Hue Royal Tombs
In addition to the Hue Imperial City, the royal tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty are also a popular destination for the first-time international tourists, due to the picturesque scenery and grandiose architecture of the tombs. These tombs were carefully selected in terms of location and architectural style by the kings themselves when they were still alive. Each tomb has its own unique beauty, reflecting the personality of the respective king.
If you have ample time in Hue, it is highly recommended to explore all of these Hue royal tombs. You will deeply appreciate the magnificence and meticulous investment that the kings put into their final resting places, as well as the natural beauty of Hue’s landscape and the unique architectural and artistic elements. Some of the most famous tombs include Gia Long Tomb, Minh Mang Tomb, Tu Duc Tomb, and Khai Dinh Tomb.
Ticket price: 150,000 VND for each royal tomb
Thien Mu Pagoda
Thien Mu Pagoda is a captivating Buddhist temple that holds great cultural and historical significance. Its iconic seven-story tower, known as the Phuoc Duyen Tower, is a symbol of the city and a sight to behold. The pagoda is not only a place of worship but also a peaceful haven where visitors can immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere and admire the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Huong River
The Huong River is located in the heart of Hue city, dividing it into two banks: the north and the south. It is renowned for its poetic and romantic beauty, often mentioned in Vietnamese poetry. The Huong River is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the slow-paced lifestyle of Hue. Taking a leisurely walk along the Huong River, observing the bustling activities, and listening to Hue singing on a boat ride along the river, are delightful experiences. Moreover, you can admire the sunset and the illuminated cityscape, capturing stunning photos with the colorful Trang Tien Bridge as a backdrop at night.
Hai Van Pass
Hai Van Pass, dividing Thua Thien Hue province and Danang City, is a thrilling and challenging route for adventurous travelers. Hai Van Pass captivates with its winding curves along the mountainside, offering panoramic views of majestic mountains on one side and the sparkling blue sea on the other, creating a stunning natural landscape. In addition to traveling by motorbike, the Huế – Đà Nẵng railway also passes through the Hai Van Tunnel, providing a unique experience where you can admire this most beautiful coastal mountain pass in Vietnam!
Bach Ma National Park
Bach Ma National Park is a favorite destination for international travelers who love nature and are passionate about trekking. With an elevation of around 1450m, Bach Ma boasts a diverse range of vegetation and wildlife species listed in the Vietnam Red Book. It offers a challenging trekking route if you choose to explore it in a day. At Bach Ma, you can enjoy the refreshingly cool water in natural lakes, admire the 300m-high Do Quyen Waterfall, and visit the ancient villas perched on the mountaintop. Especially, if you visit in March or April, you will be able to witness the enchanting beauty of vibrant red rhododendron flowers amidst the majestic Bach Ma mountain range.
Ticket price: 60,000 VND/pax/entrance ticket. You can book a trekking tour that includes an entrance ticket, lunch meal, a tour guide, and transports with a fee of around 900,000 VND.
Dong Ba Market
Dong Ba Market is one of the oldest and largest markets in Hue, which is a treasure trove of local culture and culinary delights. Strolling through its vibrant aisles, you can explore an endless variety of fresh produce, local handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Indulge in the flavors of Hue by sampling the delicious street food and traditional dishes offered at the market’s food stalls. Don’t miss the opportunity to bargain and interact with friendly vendors, immerse yourself in the vibrant local atmosphere, and capture the essence of Hue’s daily life at Dong Ba Market.
Lap An Lagoon
Lap An Lagoon, located in Lang Co town, is one of the tourist attractions known as the “romantic bay of Hue,” offering a serene, peaceful, and incredibly picturesque landscape, making it an ideal destination for impressive photos. With harmonious mountains and tranquil waters without a ripple, the scenery is both majestic and untouched, creating a strangely peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Do not miss this location to capture stunning virtual corners when you visit Hue!
Tam Giang Lagoon
Tam Giang Lagoon, 12 km far from Hue City, is the largest brackish water lagoon system in Southeast Asia. The best of this place lies in its tranquil and picturesque surroundings. Visitors can embark on boat tours or explore the lagoon by kayak, the best time to immerse yourself in the beauty of Tam Giang is sunrise or dawn. The lagoon is also a paradise for birdwatchers, as it is home to a diverse range of bird species. Additionally, Tam Giang Lagoon offers a glimpse into the daily lives of local fishermen, who can be seen casting their nets and going about their traditional fishing activities.
Traveling to Hue Imperial City will undoubtedly be an exciting journey when exploring these tourist attractions above. It becomes even more special if you can speak basic Vietnamese to converse with the locals here. However, the Central dialect of Hue is quite unique and can pose a significant challenge compared to the accents of the North and the South. If you’re interested in learning Vietnamese, especially the local dialect of Hue, consider enrolling in VLS’s Survival Vietnamese course. We provide you with basic Vietnamese language skills, and essential dialogues for traveling, and help you gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese dialects and the local culture of the place you want to visit!
