Best things to do and see in Hue

Discover the top things to do in Hue, a city rich in imperial history and cultural charm. Wander through ancient citadels, visit royal tombs, enjoy the peaceful Perfume River, and savor authentic Hue cuisine for an unforgettable journey in Vietnam’s heritage city.

The imperial city of the Nguyen dynasty

The Imperial City of Hue is one of the most iconic landmarks in Vietnam, offering a fascinating glimpse into the country’s royal past. Once the political and cultural center of the Nguyen Dynasty, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is surrounded by moats and massive walls, housing grand palaces, temples, and traditional architecture. It’s an unmissable things to do in Hue on any Hue travel itinerary.

Opening hours:

• Summer (April – September): 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Winter (October – March): 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Entrance fee (updated 2025):

• Adults: 200,000 VND (≈ $7.75)
• Children under 12: 40,000 VND (≈ $1.55)

The mausoleums of the Nguyen dynasty

Visiting the royal tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty are must-do things to do in Hue, each reflecting the emperor’s personality and artistic legacy. They offer visitors a deep insight into Vietnam’s imperial history and culture.

Tomb of Minh Mang – Famous for its symmetrical layout, serene lakes, gardens, and bridges, blending Confucian design with nature.

• Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Fee (2025): adult: about $6, children (7-12 years old): about $1 and free for children under 6 years old

Tomb of Tu Duc – Nestled among pine trees and lotus ponds, this peaceful retreat reflects the emperor’s poetic soul and love of nature.

• Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Fee (2025): adult: about $6, children (7-12 years old): about $1 and free for children under 6 years old

Tomb of Khai Dinh – The most ornate tomb, blending Vietnamese and European styles with striking mosaics and dragon-guarded stairways.

• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Fee (2025): adult: about $6, children (7-12 years old): about $1 and free for children under 6 years old

Thien Mu pagoda (Pagoda of the celestial lady)

Among the top things to do in Hue, visiting Thien Mu Pagoda is a must. Perched on a hill overlooking the Perfume River, this 17th-century pagoda is the oldest in the city and a symbol of Hue’s spiritual life. Its iconic seven-story tower, peaceful gardens, and historic relics make it not only a sacred site but also a beautiful spot to enjoy stunning river views and learn more about Vietnam’s Buddhist heritage.

Some must-see sites of Thien Mu Pagoda

• Iconic Phuoc Duyen Tower (seven stories, symbol of Hue)
• Peaceful gardens and bonsai trees overlooking the Perfume River
• Historic relics, including the car once driven by monk Thich Quang Duc
• Oldest pagoda in Hue (built in 1601), important Buddhist center

Opening hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance fee: Free

Chuon lagoon in Tam Giang

About 20 km from the city, visit Tam Giang Lagoon is one of the most unique things to do in Hue. Known as the largest lagoon system in Southeast Asia, it offers travelers a chance to witness the daily life of fishermen, explore traditional aquaculture, and enjoy the peaceful scenery at sunrise or sunset.

Top things to do at Tam Giang Lagoon:

• Take a sampan boat trip to explore the lagoon
• Experience the local fishing lifestyle and techniques
• Visit aquaculture farms and meet local artisans
• Enjoy sunset views over the tranquil waters

Visit traditional craft villages in Hue

Exploring traditional craft villages is one of the most authentic things to do in Hue. These communities preserve centuries-old skills, allowing visitors to discover local heritage and bring home meaningful souvenirs. Each village has its own specialty and charm:

• Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village – Famous for delicate paper flowers traditionally used in rituals and home decoration.
• Sinh Village – Renowned for folk woodblock paintings that reflect Hue’s cultural and spiritual values.
• Phu Cam Conical Hat Village – A historic place where artisans craft the iconic Vietnamese nón lá.
• Thuy Xuan Incense Village – Brightly colored incense sticks line the streets, offering a fragrant glimpse into local craftsmanship.

You can explore more: Top 7 traditional craft villages in Hue you shouldn’t miss

The beauty of Hue is something you should see with your own eyes and experience with your own hands to truly feel its authenticity. Let us – a travel company with over 20 years of experience – take you on an unforgettable journey through this imperial city

Thuy Bieu village

Thuy Bieu Village to discover the life of the inhabitants with a small bike ride – must-do things to do in Hue. It is at the Thuy Bieu market, with its local colors, that one can buy all the necessary ingredients for the ongoing cooking class.

Vietnamese cooking class: demonstration and lesson followed by a tasting as lunch. Instructive and tasty.

Thanh Toan tile covered bridge

Visit the village of Thanh Thuy with the Thanh Toan Tile Covered Bridge – one of the oldest bridges in Vietnam and an exhibition house of agricultural tools – a place to reproduce scenes of daily life in ancient villages.

Dragon boat cruise on the Perfume river

Stretching over 80 km, the Perfume River is the heart and soul of Hue. When it comes to best things to do in Hue, you can’t miss this site. Legend has it that over 100 years ago, the river carried a strong scent of flower petals falling and flowing along the streams, hence the name Perfume River.

Today, the scent may not be as strong due to the enormous amount of boats and river cruises on the Perfume River, but it is still a popular landmark for foreigners and locals alike.

You can dine on the Perfume River while admiring a stunning view of the sunset and the sparkling lights that illuminate the Trang Tien Bridge.

Bike or cyclo ride

Take a bike or cyclo ride to explore the charming colonial architecture, tree-lined avenues, and the Imperial City of the Nguyen Dynasty with its citadel. It is a very relaxing and fun experience.

Hands-on cooking class in Hue

Experience a morning of learning Vietnamese cuisine, starting with choosing ingredients at Dong Ba Market, followed by a boat transfer to the cook’s house for a demonstration, lesson, and lunch tasting. It is an informative and delicious experience – one of the most interesting things to do in Hue.

Flash flavors

Some must-try food in Hue

We will be happy to take you to one of our favorite places in Hue known for its specialties. Your palate will discover the unique flavors of our Vietnamese cuisine!

TOP famous delicious dishes you must try

• Bun bo Hue (vermicelli soup with Hue-style beef)
• Cha gio: Hue-style pork spring rolls
• Banh nam: shrimp and pork stuffed dumplings
• Bo xao: spicy beef with onions
• Banh khoai: turmeric-scented rice crepe with shrimp, pork, and coriander
• Nem lui: lemongrass pork skewers
• Banh beo: steamed rice cake with shrimp and pork pieces

Flash show

For the unique best things to do in Hue, don’t miss a traditional performance at Hue’s Royal Theater, located inside the Imperial City. Built in 1826, this historic theater once hosted exclusive shows for the Nguyen emperors and their royal court. Today, it offers visitors the chance to admire royal court music and dance, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The show features performers in elaborate costumes, graceful dances, and classical music played on traditional instruments, recreating the refined atmosphere of the royal court.

• Showtime: Daily at 10:30 AM (reservation recommended through your guide)
• Entrance Fee: Optional, ~10 USD per person (in addition to the Imperial City ticket)
• Tip: Arrive a little early to get a good seat and enjoy the theater’s historic architecture.

When to go to Hue for the best experiences

Best time to visit Hue – From March to August

It is important to note that Hue is largely affected by the tropical climate. Therefore, the climate is divided into two distinct periods: the dry season and the rainy season. The best time to visit Hue is from March to August, during the dry season.

• The dry season, from March to August: the average temperature is around 30 °C, and sometimes the temperature can reach up to 40 °C. During this period, it is rather hot and sunny.
• The rainy season, from September to March: average temperature is from 18 °C to 23 °C with high humidity.

The weather in Hue is known to be unpredictable. It can be very beautiful during the day and then rain heavily at night! Therefore, it is advisable to always prepare an umbrella or raincoat with you.

👉 NOTICE: Many festivals are held in this city, such as Tet (Lunar New Year), traditional village festivals, and the Hue Festival in April. You can attend cultural performances, spring markets, traditional music concerts, royal ceremonies, and seasonal local dishes.

How many days to visit Hue

Wondering how many days to spend in Hue? Whether you have just 1 day to explore the highlights or 2 days to dive deeper into its imperial heritage, Hue offers flexible itineraries to match every traveler’s schedule.

1 day to discover Hue

Hue Monument

• Visit the Imperial City of the Nguyen Dynasty with citadels, pagodas, imperial tombs.
• Relaxing cruise on a typical boat on the famous Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda (Pagoda of the Celestial Lady).
• Visit the An Hien Garden House to discover the traditional and typical architecture of old Hue.
• Visit the Mausoleums of the Nguyen Dynasty, complexes formed by small ponds, pavilions, temples and courtyards.
• The making of incense sticks will no longer be a secret to you after a stop in a village near Hue, specialized in this activity.
• Stroll through Dong Ba market.

2 days to discover Hue

Day 1: Visit to the Imperial City by cyclo

Dong Ba market

• Visit the Imperial City of the Nguyen Dynasty with citadels, pagodas, imperial tombs.
• Visit the Mausoleums of the Nguyen Dynasty, complexes formed by small ponds, pavilions, temples and courtyards.
• The making of incense sticks will no longer be a secret to you after a stop in a village near Hue, specialized in this activity.
• Stroll through Dong Ba market.

Day 2: Visit to Thuy Bieu Village – Cooking Class

• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest religious monuments in Hue.
• Continue to Thuy Bieu Village to get a deeper insight into the life of the locals through a bike ride.
• Visit the old worship house.
• At the colorful Thuy Bieu market, all the necessary ingredients for the cooking class will be purchased.
• Vietnamese cooking class: demonstration and lesson followed by a tasting as lunch. Instructive and delicious.
• Herbal foot bath and massage to end the Zen afternoon.

You can also refer: Exploring Hue in 2 to 3 days: Must-visit attractions and travel tips

Where to stay in Hue?

Looking for the best place to stay in Hue when experiencing the best things to do in Hue? From elegant riverside resorts to cozy boutique guesthouses, the city offers a wide range of options for every budget and travel style.

3-star hotels in Hue

If you’re after comfort, convenience, and good value, 3-star hotels in Hue are a great choice. They usually feature comfortable rooms, friendly service, and modern facilities at affordable rates – ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families.

📌 Popular 3-star hotels in Hue:

• Thanh Lich Hue Hotel
• The Scarlett Boutique Hotel
• Hue Ecolodge
• Hue Serene Palace Hotel

4-star hotels in Hue

For travelers who want a balance between luxury and affordability, 4-star hotels in Hue are the perfect option. With stylish design, quality amenities, and attentive service, they offer a touch of elegance without being too costly.

📌 Recommended 4-star hotels in Hue:

• Spatel d’Annam
• Anhill Boutique
• Century Riverside Hue
• Romance Hotel

5-star hotels in Hue

If you’re dreaming of a truly indulgent stay, 5-star hotels in Hue deliver world-class service, luxurious rooms, spa treatments, and fine dining. Surrounded by stunning landscapes or historic charm, they’re perfect for honeymoons, romantic escapes, or anyone looking for an elevated experience.

📌 Top 5-star hotels in Hue:

• Vedana Lagoon Resort & Spa
• Pilgrimage Village Resort & Spa
• Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel
• Azerai La Residence Hue

Choose Hanoi Voyages for a seamless and personalized travel experience crafted by experts dedicated to exceeding your expectations. From tailored itineraries to insightful cultural tours, we ensure every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on exploring Hue’s imperial citadel, serene pagodas, and poetic Perfume River. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, consider our 12-day Vietnam tour for an unforgettable journey through this beautiful country. This season, immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Vietnam’s ancient capital, where history, culture and cuisine come together in perfect harmony.

Book your unforgettable journey to explore the best things to do in Hue with Hanoi Voyages today!

You can also refer more information for your trip to Hue, Vietnam:

>>> Explore Hue with family: 9 best things to do
>>> Top 10 must-visit attractions in Hue
>>> Hue weather by season: What should you expect?

FAQs