Hue, a centuries-old and tranquil city located in central Vietnam, is not only renowned for its famous cultural heritage but also for preserving numerous historical, artistic, and culinary treasures. As the former capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty, Hue holds within it legendary stories, majestic royal architectural landmarks, and stunning natural landscapes.
Time to travel
The tourist season in Hue runs from November of the previous year to April of the following year, with the best months being the first three to four months, when the weather is cool and pleasant. For travelers who love the mountains, the sea, and enjoy watching the sunrise and sunset, the ideal time to visit is from June to August, when the sun is at its brightest and the sea is clearest.
Hue doesn’t really have a dry season, but rather a rainy season and a less rainy season. The less rainy season usually lasts from March to August, with hot and humid weather. From September to January of the following year is the rainy season, with cooler temperatures. Particularly, from October to November, Hue is prone to storms, with heavy rains that seem unrelenting.
Means of transportation
Hue is a relatively small city, so there are several convenient transportation options for visitors. Renting a motorbike is one of the most popular choices for tourists, as it allows for easy exploration of the city and its surroundings. Most hotels and rental shops offer motorbike rentals, with prices ranging from 100,000 to 150,000 VND per day. Some places may require a deposit, while others only need an ID for rental.
In addition, taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are widely available in Hue, offering a more comfortable way to get around, especially for shorter trips. However, taxis can be more expensive, especially for longer journeys. For those on a budget, public transportation such as buses is an affordable option, though it may not be as convenient for tourists. Visitors can also explore the city by foot or bicycle, with bicycles available for rent in the central area, allowing for a leisurely way to discover Hue’s historic sites.
Best place to visit
1. Imperial City (The Citadel)
Address: 23/4 Street, Hue City, Thua Thien-Hue Province, Vietnam
Reference opening hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Reference ticket price: 200,000 VND/person for adults and 40,000 VND/person for children
The royal citadel of Hue was built in 1804 as the imperial court and residence for emperors of the Nguyen dynasty, inspired by the Forbidden City of Beijing. The massive compound features various layers of embattlements surrounding several palaces, halls, and colleges. Visitors can enter through Ngo Mon Gate, which remains relatively intact. Unfortunately, only a few relics remain after the devastation of the Vietnam War and time. However, what’s preserved still appeals to visitors who may spend half a day admiring its beauty and glory.
2. Thien Mu Pagoda
Address: Nguyen Phuc Nguyen Street, Hue City, Thua Thien-Hue Province, Vietnam
Reference opening hours: All day
Reference ticket price: Free
Thien Mu Pagoda is the most recommended religious site to visit in Hue. The significance lies in the seven-story stupa called Phuoc Duyen, 21 meters tall, with each floor holding a meaning associated with Buddhist theory. The beautiful temple lies on the bank of the peaceful Perfume River estuary, making it ideal to reach by sampan boat.
3. An Dinh Palace
Address: 97 Phan Chu Trinh Street, Hue City, Thua Thien-Hue Province, Vietnam
Reference opening hours: 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM in summer; 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM in winter
Reference ticket price: 25,000 VND/person for adults and free for children
Referred to as the “summer palace” of the Hue court, An Dinh palace has the appearance of a magnificent ancient European castle, but bears traditional Hue royal patterns. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage, An Dinh Palace is considered a unique architectural work of art, representing the neoclassical school of architecture in Vietnam in the early 20th century.
4. Hue High School for the Gifted
Address: 12 Le Loi Street, Hue City, Thua Thien-Hue Province, Vietnam
Reference opening hours: Afternoons from Monday to Saturday and all Sunday
Reference ticket price: Free
The first high school in Hue built during the reign of King Thanh Thai, in 1896. The school is located at 12 Le Loi Street, right in the center. The school stands out with its bright red paint and rows of green ancient trees all year round. The Hue National University campus is very large, so you can leisurely stroll through the hallways, classrooms, and schoolyard, visit ancient French architecture and take souvenir photos.
5. Dong Ba Market
Address: 2 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hue City, Thua Thien-Hue Province, Vietnam
Reference opening hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Reference ticket price: Free
Formed in 1899, Dong Ba market is one of the symbols of the ancient capital, bustling with buyers and sellers all year round. The market stretches from Gia Hoi bridge to Truong Tien bridge with thousands of stalls. Entering the market, you will see the colorful atmosphere of a Hue market. Tourists come here to freely find delicious food, or stroll around the shops of clothes, fabrics, hats, fish sauces, and cakes that are only available in Hue to buy and take home.
6. Perfume River
Address: Near the Thien Mu Pagoda or Dong Ba Market
The Perfume River winds its way through the mountains and forests, passing through villages from Kim Long, Vi Da to Dong Ba, Gia Hoi, Nam Pho… mingling with the scent of Hue flowers. If you have the opportunity, take a boat trip on the river to admire the poetic Huong River scenery.
7. Lang Co Beach
Address: Lang Co Town, Phu Loc District, Thua Thien-Hue Province, Vietnam
Lang Co Beach is an underrated gem, offering clear water and a long white sand stretch. The pristine beach is backed by green hills, creating a memorable landscape. Located midway along Hai Van Pass from Danang, it’s accessible with ease. However, August to September should be avoided due to the stormy season in the South China Sea.
