Things to Do in Hue

Choose from 19 Fun Things to Do in Hue

Flag Tower

The main focal point of the Imperial City, Hue’s Flag Tower greets visitors upon arrival at the Citadel, sitting opposite its main entrance and facing out across the river. The tower was built at the beginning of the 19th century during Emperor Gia Long's reign, although the flag staff has been destroyed and rebuilt a number of times since.

This is Vietnam's tallest flagpole. The yellow flag of royalty was the first to fly here, before being replaced by many others throughout Vietnam's colorful history. During the Viet Cong occupation in the 1960s, the flag of the National Liberation Front flew from the Flag Tower for more than three weeks. The tower itself is made up of three platforms, with the third featuring eight canons and a sentry box at either end.

Practical Info

The Flag Tower in Hue sits right opposite the main entrance to the Citadel, overlooking the river. Although visitors are free to take photographs, they are no longer permitted to climb up on the structure.

Imperial City, Hue, Vietnam

From $ 25

Tomb of Tu Duc

It took nearly three years to build some 50 structures that make up the Tomb of Tu Duc, located 8 kilometers outside of Hue amid an expansive pine forest. The grounds are divided into two main parts—tomb and temple areas. Near the entrance visitors can wander the pavilion where the emperor once perched to compose poems and admire the flowers. This leads to his work station, and ultimately to his resting place. The impressive tomb, located just beyond the Honor Courtyard, houses a massive stone engraved with a narrative written by the Emperor himself.

Practical Info:

Visit after the rainy season, when the tomb’s foliage is in full bloom. Tomb of Tu Duc is accessible by bike from Hue. The ride along the Perfume River is flat and scenic. Open daily from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 pm.

Thủy Xuân, Hue Thua Thien, Hue Province, Vietnam

Open Daily: 7:30am - 5pm.

From $ 49

Forbidden Purple City

This royal structure, which sits at the center of Hue’s Imperial Enclosure, was once reserved for exclusive use by the emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty. Only eunuchs passed through its halls, since even his most trusted servants weren’t allowed beyond the gates. Today, this historic citadel sits mostly in ruins, destroyed during several wars throughout the nation’s history. Despite some recent rebuilding efforts, travelers can easily spend a long afternoon wandering paths that crisscross the grounds, exploring portions of the foundation, now overgrown with foliage, and examining the painting, woodwork and architecture that still remains. A 10 kilometer moat surrounds what was created to resemble the Forbidden City of Beijing, and 10 gates protect these once royal grounds.

Practical Info:

Be sure to catch one of the eight performances of traditional nha nhac dance at the nearby Hue Monuments Conservation Center from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily.

Vietnam

From $ 25

Nine Dynastic Urns

The Hien Lam Pavilion can be found inside Hue Citadel across the courtyard from the Mieu Temple. It was built in the 1820s in memory of the mandarins who served the Nguyen dynasty. Just in front of the pavilion stand the Nine Dynastic Urns, which were cast in bronze in the 1830s and each dedicated to a different Nguyen emperor.

The urns each have their own name and are uniquely decorated with Vietnamese motifs and patterns, which include stars, rivers, mountains, and oceans. After their casting by Emperor Minh Mang, the Nine Dynastic Urns were placed in position according to the altars within the Mieu Temple. Cao Urn stands slightly forward in the center, with the others sitting behind, symmetrical on either side.

Practical Info

The Nine Dynastic Urns can be found inside Hue’s Citadel. They are located in front of the Hien Lam Pavilion across the courtyard from the Mieu Temple.

Imperial City, Hue, Vietnam

VND 105,000 (Entry into Citadel)

From $ 25

Bach Ma National Park

Encompassing more than 154 square miles (400 square kilometers) of an old French hill station, Bach Ma National Park protects one of the most visually stunning natural areas of Central Vietnam. More than 1,400 species of plants grow in the park — a fifth of the total flora in the country — alongside 132 species of mammals and 358 species of birds. Among the rarer residents, many of them nocturnal, are the douc langur, leopard, stump-tailed macaques and Asiatic black bear.

The ruins of French resorts and villas lie scattered throughout the park, evidence of the era when French residents of Hue retreated to the cooler climes of the park during the hottest parts of the year. Well-marked trails wind through the park, and there are a few guesthouses at the summit.

Practical Info

March and April, when the rhododendrons begin to bloom, are two of the best months to visit Bach Ma National Park.

Hue, Thua Thien Hue province, Vietnam

40,000 VND

From $ 33

Quang Dien District

On the north-central coast of Vietnam, Quang Dien is a rural district in the Hue-Thua Thien province. The livelihood of Quang Dien’s population relies on the Bo river, its fertile banks providing farmland that’s perfect for growing vegetables and rice. The 163-square-km district has a population of 91,000 that is concentrated in seven villages along the banks of the river as well as a few hamlets and the district capital of Sia. In spring, the small town of Sia hosts its own traditional boat races along the Bo river.

On the coastal plain northwest of Hue, Quang Dien district is a popular place for travelers looking to experience rural Vietnamese life. A perfect spot for cyclists looking for a relaxing ride, it’s a good place to bike among the rice paddies and riverbanks. While you’re in the area, be sure to sample some freshly-caught fish from the Bo, too.

The Quang Dien district is located in the Hue-Thua Thien province.

Vietnam

From $ 75

Tinh Tam Lake

Tinh Tam Lake, one of the most famous sites in Vietnam’s ancient imperial capital, sits just north of the Imperial City. Rectangular in shape and surrounded by brick walls, the manmade lake and its small islets -- many connected by bridges -- once served as private leisure grounds where the Vietnamese royalty could go walking. Built in the early nineteenth century, the lake was considered a major achievement in landscape architecture at the time.

Due to it’s proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Imperial Palace, it’s convenient to visit Tinh Tam Lake immediately before or after a tour of the palace grounds. If you have time, take a cyclo ride along the banks. During festivals in Hue, the lake is sometimes used as a venue for musical and cultural performances, complete with a floating stage.

Hue, Vietnam

All Day

From $ 25

Perfume River (Song Huong River)

The Perfume River may have gotten its fame from the film Full Metal Jacket, but visitors to Hue traveled on this scenic body of water even before the movie’s 1987 debut. Each fall, blossoms from nearby orchards drop into the river, producing the unique fragrance that gives this river its name. The unpolluted waters offer cooling breezes for cyclists riding along the winding banks of local rice fields, and breathtaking views of Ngu Binh Mountain. Watch the sun go down and the city light up while you enjoy a cool beer on a late-afternoon dragon boat ride through Hue.

Practical Info:

The river provides interesting views of the city at any time of year, but only those who visit in fall months will be able to enjoy the river’s uniquely beautiful aroma. Dragon boat prices can vary greatly so be prepared to barter.

Hue, Vietnam

From $ 20

Thai Hoa Palace

Situated in the Forbidden City, just inside the Citadel’s entryway, this palace was constructed in 1805 and first used for the emperor’s coronation in 1806. It later served as the meeting place between royalty and commoners, as well as for signing ceremonies and announcements of new laws. Visitors can cross the Trung Dao Bridge, over Thai Dich pond, into the Great Rites Court, where the emperor once received foreign ambassadors and conducted important international meetings. Stand at the exact center of the palace, where the royal throne was placed—and hear whispers from anywhere in the building, just as the emperor did when he held court.

Practical Info:

Don’t miss the historical film shown near the rear of the palace. It brings to life the structure’s history, restoration and use. Because photography is not allowed, pictures can only be taken outside palace gates.

Vietnam

From $ 25

Dong Ba Market

On the north bank of the Huong River is Hue’s lively Dong Ba Market, stretching out for 16,000 square meters. Still retaining its old bell tower from when it was first opened by King Dong Khanh in 1887, the atmospheric market is divided into separate sections, with the whole upstairs floor dedicated to clothes.

Though Hue has plenty of supermarkets, Dong Ba is an important market for locals and a great place to experience Vietnamese life, with 5,000 to 7,000 people coming here to barter daily.

While you’re at Dong Ba Market, look out for popular local handicrafts like non la bai tho (conical hats with poems woven in the design), xung sesame candies, and Tuan black tea. Dong Ba is also a great spot for trying traditional regional food like beef vermicelli. You’ll find the street vendors serving specialty dishes on the ground floor of the market, on the street parallel to the river.

Practical Info

The food stalls at Dong Ba Market begin setting up at 3 a.m., and it’s in the early hours when the freshest food is sold at the lowest price. The market is open until 8.30 p.m., and there’s a convenient bus station inside the market.

Chương Dương, Phú Hòa, tp. Huế, Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam

Daily 3am-8:30pm

From $ 20

Tam Giang Lagoon

Stretching 700 km along the Thua Thien-Hue seashore, Tam Giang is the largest lagoon in Southeast Asia with over 300,000 Vietnamese living along its shores. Just 15 km from Hue, it’s a popular place to enjoy Vietnamese rural life and go out on a fishing boat with a local, learning traditional Vietnamese fishing methods along the way. At dusk, you’ll see traps being set to collect fish and shrimps before dawn the next day, and women working hard in the water to collect the oysters and clams which are then sold at the local markets.

Popular fishing villages to visit include Ngu My Thanh, Bao La, and Tan My: learn about daily life on the banks of the lagoon, take a boat trip, sleep overnight on a homestay, or learn how local women making fishing nets and pick up the art of bamboo weaving -- there’s plenty to do on the banks of Tam Giang Lagoon. If you go to Ngu My Thanh village, be sure to visit the traditional floating market which is open in the early mornings.

A photographer’s dream, Tam Giang Lagoon is also famous for its biodiversity -- look out for lake-loving birds and flora while you’re here, and of course, try fresh seafood like squid, clams, crab and shrimp fresh from the lake at one of the cottages lining the lagoon.

Practical Info

Fifteen kilometers from Hue, Tam Giang Lagoon is huge, so consider making your base at one of the fishing villages like Ngu My Thanh, Bao La, or Tan My, and exploring from there.

Vietnam

From $ 54

Thanh Toan Bridge

Thanh Toan Bridge spans a canal in the countryside village of Thuy Thanh, around seven kilometers east of Hue. It’s a small, covered bridge – the sister to Hoi An’s famous Japanese Covered Bridge (although some argue Hue’s is more distinct in many ways). The structure is both Japanese and Chinese in style and has a square-timber arch decorated with ancient ceramics, along with inscriptions in traditional Chinese script.

There is a story behind the origins of Thanh Toan Bridge: It is said to have been built during Emperor Le Hien Tong’s reign in the mid-18th century, with construction initiated by Tran Thi Dao, the wife of a high-ranking mandarin in the Emperor's court. Tran Thi Dao established the bridge to create smooth transportation and communication around the village, which was divided in two by the canal. Emperor Le Hien Tong recognized Thi Dao’s initiative and charity by exempting the village from imperial taxations.

Practical Info

There are a number of ways to reach Thanh Toan Bridge from Hue, with the most scenic being by motorbike or bicycle. There’s a small agricultural museum near the bridge that’s free to visit.

Thuy Thanh, Hue, Huong Thuy, Vietnam 536100, Vietnam

From $ 23

Tomb of Khai Dinh

Built as a monument and mausoleum for the Nguyen Emperor, Khai Dinh, this impressive tomb is located on a steep slope at the foot of Mount Chau Chu near Hue. The structure is an architectural blend of Vietnamese and Western influences that took 11 years to build, with the construction beginning in 1920 and finishing in 1931.

Upon crossing the gateway to the imperial tomb, visitors must climb 37 steps and proceed up further levels to reach the extravagant main building of Thien Dinh. The walls here are adorned with designs carved from porcelain and glass, while the floor is covered with enameled flowers. Above, the room’s elaborate ceiling features nine depictions of intricately designed dragons amid swirling clouds. At the centre of the main room sits the bronze statue of Khai Dinh, his altar, and his grave beneath.

Practical Info

The Tomb of Khai Dinh is located approximately 10 kilometers from Hue city centre along Highway 49. It’s open daily from 7am until 11:30am and again from 1:30 pm to 5:30pm. There is a small admission fee to enter.

Hue, Vietnam

Open daily 7:00am-11:30am and 1:30pm-5:30pm

Small fee

From $ 39

The Citadel (Dai Noi)

Constructed in 1804, this massive fortress designed for the Gia Long Emperor, is surrounded by a zigzag moat and defensive barrier that’s 21 meters thick. But visitors to this citadel-in-a-citadel-in-a-citadel won’t need to swim across rivers or scale towering walls to get a look inside. The Imperial Enclosure is accessible by crossing one of the 10 pedestrian bridges into the once royal land. Pass through Ngo Mon (Noon) Gate, once reserved for those in power, then wander through Flag Tower (Cot Co) and stare up at the nation’s tallest flagpole before weaving through the Nine Dynastic Urns representing different Nguyen kings.

Practical Info:

The Citadel is an easy walk from numerous hotels in Hue and also accessible by bike. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes or consider hiring a rickshaw to experience the entire complex. Open daily from 7:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Vietnam

Open Daily from 7:30am - 5pm.

From $ 24

Noon Gate (Cua Ngo Mon)

Perhaps the most-visited gate of the Imperial City, this entrance was the site of numerous historically significant announcements (like the resignation of the last emperor, Bao Dai). A list of successful doctoral candidates whose names were announced at these gates still hangs on the wall of the upper floor. Although it was significantly damaged during war, yellow tiles, which demarcate areas reserved for use only by the emperor, can still be seen on rooftops. Climb to the upper level and enjoy unmatched views of both the Citadel and the Hall of Supreme Harmony.

Practical Info:

Pass through Noon Gate from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily, as part of a visit to the Forbidden City and Citadel grounds.

Vietnam

Open from 9am - 4pm.

From $ 25

Tomb of Minh Mang

Located 12 kilometers outside of Hue, the Tomb of Minh Mang honors the late Nguyen Dynasty emperor. Beautifully preserved gardens and flower-lined walkways make this picturesque tomb's entrance fee (about USD $5) worth the cost of admission. Tomb of Minh Mang is part of a large complex that sits on the west bank of the Perfume River and includes a summer home and lake. Photographers will love the scenic views and lush landscapes, while meditative sorts will appreciate the well-kept grounds and tranquil setting.

Practical Info:

Only a few signs identify this tomb, so it can be difficult to find. Hop a motor taxi or participate in a local historical tour to avoid the hassle of finding Tomb of Minh Mang on your own. It’s best to visit in the early morning before crowds arrive. The tomb is also accessible by Dragon Boat on the Perfume River.

49, Hương Thọ Thua Thien, Hue Province, Vietnam

From $ 39

Royal Antiquities Museum

The Royal Antiquities Museum displays a huge collection of ornaments, furniture, jewelry, clothing, and other items relating to royal life during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945). It is housed in the former Long An Palace, which is widely considered to be one of Vietnam’s most beautiful palaces. The striking building has seven compartments at its front, with eight beams covered in sculptures of dragons. The wooden parts of the palace feature elaborate carvings depicting various scenes, along with poems and essays written in Chinese script.

Having been relocated from the An Dinh residence to its original setting on Le Truc Street, the Royal Antiquities Museum sits just outside Hue’s Citadel (Imperial City). The building was used as a place of worship and a library before being established as a museum by King Khai Dinh and presented to his son, the last reigning emperor. The purpose of the museum was said to be “to revive generations of artisans who had built up the glorified Hue royal court.”

Practical Info

The Royal Antiquities Museum is located just outside the walls of the Citadel at number 3 Le Truc Street and can be easily reached on foot.

3 Le Truc Street, Hue, Vietnam

Tues-Sun 7am-5pm (closed on Mondays)

40,000 VND

From $ 26

Bao Quoc Pagoda

On Hàm Long hill by the Perfume River in Hue, Bao Quoc Pagoda is a Buddhist temple that dates back to the Nguyen Dynasty, when it was commissioned in 1670 by Chinese Zen Master Thích Giác Phong.

Though Bao Quoc was renovated in the mid-20th century, it still retains its traditional charm. A spring flows from the top of the hill down into the grounds of the temple, where the peaceful courtyard is surrounded by balconied buildings and stupas built in honor of Buddhist patriarchs, the oldest of which was built in 1714 and dedicated to Thich Giác Phong. At the temple, look closer at its four pillars carved with dragon figures.

Bao Quoc Pagoda is also famous for its monk training center, which has been running since 1940 when Vietnam initiated a revival in Buddhist education.

Practical Info

Open from sunrise to sunset on Ham Long Hill, Bao Quoc is free to enter. About a kilometer west of Hue city center on the south side of the Perfume River, the pagoda is on Báo Quoc Street in the Phuong Ðúc ward.

Lịch Đợi, tp. Huế, Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam

Daily sunrise to sunset

From $ 88

Thien Mu Pagoda

Regarded as the unofficial symbol of Hue, Tien Mu Pagoda stands seven stories--the tallest monument in Vietnam. This working monastery was originally designed for Buddhist scholars, however it’s recently become known as a site for anti-communist protests. Thich Quang Duc was the first Buddhist clergy member to self-immolate and bring attention to the plight of his people. His actions inspired the artwork for a Rage Against the Machine album, raising awareness of injustice for a wider audience.

Kim Long, tp. Huế, Thua Thien, Hue Province, Vietnam

From $ 20