Wondering what are the best things to do in Hue? From exploring the UNESCO-listed Imperial City and royal tombs to tasting authentic Hue cuisine and cruising along the Perfume River, Hue offers unforgettable cultural experiences. If you’re visiting for the first time, joining a Hue Tour is one of the easiest ways to discover the city’s top attractions efficiently while learning about its fascinating history from a local guide.
Table of Contents
1. Explore Hue Imperial City
- Location: 23/8 Street, Thuan Hoa district, Hue City
- Operating Hours: 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM [Summer] and 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM [Winter]
- Cost: VND 200,000/person
Hue Imperial City is the most important historical site in Hue and one of the best places to understand Vietnam’s royal past. Located inside the Hue Citadel, this large walled complex was once the political, ceremonial and residential center of the Nguyen Dynasty, Vietnam’s last royal dynasty.
This was where the emperors worked, held important court ceremonies and made major decisions for the country. It was also where members of the royal family lived, together with queens, concubines, mandarins and selected court servants. Inside the Imperial City, visitors can see ancient gates, palace courtyards, royal halls, temples, gardens and the remains of the Forbidden Purple City, an area once reserved mainly for the emperor and the royal household.
Two of the most important sites inside the complex are Ngo Mon Gate and Thai Hoa Palace. Ngo Mon Gate was the main ceremonial entrance, while Thai Hoa Palace was used for major court meetings and royal events. Although parts of the Imperial City were damaged by war and time, many areas have been restored, helping visitors imagine the scale and atmosphere of royal life in old Hue.
2. Visit the royal tombs of Hue
The royal tombs of Hue are among the most unique attractions in the city. They were built as resting places for the Nguyen emperors, but they are much more than burial sites. Each tomb was designed as a symbolic landscape, combining architecture, nature, feng shui, lakes, gardens, temples and stone statues.
For first-time visitors, the three most recommended tombs are Khai Dinh Tomb, Minh Mang Tomb and Tu Duc Tomb. Each tomb offers a different atmosphere, helping travelers understand the personalities, beliefs and artistic tastes of the Nguyen emperors.
Khai Dinh Tomb
Address: Thuy Bang Commune, Hue City
Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily
Entrance fee: 150,000 VND/adult – 30,000 VND/child aged 7–12
Khai Dinh Tomb is one of the most visually impressive royal tombs in Hue. Built on a hillside, it stands out for its dramatic stairways, dark stone exterior and unique blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles. Compared with other royal tombs, Khai Dinh Tomb feels more compact, but its details are extremely rich and decorative.
The highlight of the tomb is the interior of Thien Dinh Palace, where visitors can see colorful glass and ceramic mosaics, detailed wall decorations and a grand royal atmosphere. This is a great stop for travelers who enjoy architecture, photography and striking historical sites
Tu Duc Tomb
Address: Thuan Hoa District, Hue City
Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily
Entrance fee: 150,000 VND/adult – 30,000 VND/child aged 7–12
Tu Duc Tomb is one of the most poetic and peaceful royal tombs in Hue. Unlike the dramatic style of Khai Dinh Tomb, this complex feels more like a quiet royal garden, with lakes, pine trees, stone paths, pavilions and temples surrounded by nature. It was built not only as a burial site but also as a retreat where Emperor Tu Duc came to rest, write poetry and escape the pressure of court life.
One of the highlights is Luu Khiem Lake, a calm lotus-filled lake that adds to the romantic atmosphere of the tomb. Visitors can also see Xung Khiem Pavilion, where the emperor once relaxed and composed poems. With its gentle scenery and personal story, Tu Duc Tomb is ideal for travelers who enjoy quiet walks, royal history and a softer side of Hue’s imperial architecture.
Minh Mang Tomb
Address: Huong Tho Commune, Hue City
Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily
Entrance fee: 150,000 VND/adult – 30,000 VND/child aged 7–12
Minh Mang Tomb is known for its harmony, symmetry and traditional royal design. Set in a spacious natural landscape, the tomb combines gates, courtyards, temples, bridges, lakes and tree-lined paths in a balanced layout. Compared with Khai Dinh Tomb and Tu Duc Tomb, Minh Mang Tomb feels more formal and philosophical, reflecting the emperor’s Confucian values and strong sense of order.
The complex is a great place for visitors who want to experience the peaceful beauty of Hue’s royal architecture. Walking through the tomb, travelers can enjoy quiet gardens, calm water features and carefully arranged structures that blend naturally with the surrounding scenery. Minh Mang Tomb is especially suitable for those who love nature, photography and historical sites with a calm, elegant atmosphere.
3. See Thien Mu Pagoda by the Perfume River
- Location: Nguyen Phuc Nguyen street, Phu Xuan district, Hue city
- Entrance fee: Free entry
- Recommended visit time: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thien Mu Pagoda is one of the most famous spiritual landmarks in Hue and among the oldest pagodas in Central Vietnam. Located on Ha Khe Hill overlooking the Perfume River, this sacred site has long been associated with the cultural and religious identity of the former imperial capital.
The name “Thien Mu” means “Heavenly Lady” or “Lady from Heaven.” According to local legend, an old woman once appeared on the hill and told people that a great lord would come to build a pagoda there to bring peace and prosperity to the land. After hearing the story, Lord Nguyen Hoang ordered its construction in 1601, giving rise to the name still used today.
Over the centuries, the pagoda became an important Buddhist site in Hue. Its most recognizable feature is Phuoc Duyen Tower, the seven-storey tower standing at the front of the complex. Today, the image of this tower beside the Perfume River is one of Hue’s most iconic symbols.
For international travelers, this riverside attraction is not only beautiful but also meaningful. Its peaceful gardens, ancient architecture and river views offer a gentle way to understand the spiritual side of Hue, making it a perfect stop between the Imperial City, royal tombs and a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River.
4. Go Trekking in Bach Ma National Park
- Location: Phu Loc District, Hue
- Operating Hours: 24/7
- Entrance fee: 65,000 VND/person
Bach Ma National Park is one of the best nature escapes near Hue, ideal for travelers who want to combine cultural sightseeing with forests, mountains and waterfalls. Located between Hue and Da Nang, the park is known for its cool climate, rich biodiversity, jungle trails and scenic viewpoints.
The name “Bach Ma” means “White Horse,” often linked to the white clouds around the mountain peak. During the French colonial period, Bach Ma was developed as a hill station thanks to its fresh air and cooler weather. Today, it is a national park and a popular trekking destination in Central Vietnam
One of the main highlights is Bach Ma Peak, rising about 1,450 meters above sea level, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of mountains, forests, lagoons and the coastline on clear days. Popular stops include Hai Vong Dai viewpoint, Five Lakes Trail and Do Quyen Waterfall.
Trekking in Bach Ma can be moderate to challenging, especially after rain, so it is best for active travelers. A day trip from Hue is possible, but visitors should start early and consider a guided tour or private car for a smoother experience.
5. Visit Dong Ba Market for souvenirs
- Location: No. 02 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hue city
- Opening hours: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Dong Ba Market is one of the best places in Hue to shop for local souvenirs and traditional products. As one of the city’s largest and most famous markets, it offers travelers a lively shopping experience filled with colors, sounds, aromas and everyday local life.
Inside the market, visitors can find a wide range of gifts to bring home, from conical hats, sesame candy, tea, spices and dried foods to local snacks, handmade items and Hue specialties. It is also a good place to look for small, affordable souvenirs that reflect the culture and flavors of the former imperial capital.
For international travelers, shopping at Dong Ba Market is not only about buying gifts. It is also a chance to observe how local people shop, bargain and interact in a traditional Vietnamese market. The best time to visit is in the morning, when the market is most active and fresh products are widely available.
6. Visit Thuy Xuan Incense Village
- Location: Huyen Tran Cong Chua Street, Hue City
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thuy Xuan Incense Village is one of the most colorful cultural stops in Hue, known for its bright incense bundles and long-standing craft tradition. Incense burning is an important spiritual practice in Vietnam, with fragrant smoke often seen as a connection between the earthly and spiritual worlds. In Hue, the craft became closely linked with the former imperial capital during the Nguyen Dynasty and is still preserved by local families today. Visitors can watch incense-making, take photos and learn more about local traditions. The village is also associated with Hue’s poetic conical hats, a unique souvenir decorated with hidden poems or images inside the palm leaves.
7. Take a Dragon Boat Cruise on the Perfume River
- Departure Pier: No. 49 Le Loi Street, Hue City (Toa Kham Tourist Wharf)
A dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River is one of the most relaxing things to do in Hue, offering travelers a slower and more poetic way to see the former imperial capital. The Perfume River flows through the heart of the city and connects many important landmarks, including Thien Mu Pagoda, Minh Mang Tombs. Sitting on a dragon-shaped boat, visitors can enjoy the river breeze, admire Truong Tien Bridge, riverside houses and peaceful mountain views
The experience becomes even more memorable in the late afternoon or evening, when the light softens over the water and Hue feels especially calm. For travelers looking for cultural things to do in Hue nightlife an evening cruise with Hue folk singing on the Perfume River is a beautiful way to experience the city’s artistic soul. Some cruises may also include floating lanterns, creating a gentle and atmospheric moment that is ideal for couples, families and anyone who wants a peaceful break from temples, tombs and busy sightseeing.
8. Taste Hue’s Cuisine
Hue’s cuisine is one of the most memorable parts of visiting the former imperial capital. Beyond its palaces, temples and royal tombs, Hue is also known as one of Vietnam’s most distinctive food destinations, where every dish reflects the city’s history, culture and refined way of life.
Because Hue was once the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, its food culture was strongly influenced by royal cuisine. Many dishes are carefully prepared, beautifully presented and balanced in flavor. At the same time, Hue cuisine is not only about royal dining. The city is equally famous for humble local dishes made with fresh herbs, local spices and traditional cooking techniques passed down through generations.
What makes Hue food special is the harmony between elegance and simplicity. A meal in Hue may include small, delicate dishes once inspired by imperial dining, as well as rustic specialties loved by local families. From Hue beef noodle soup and Beo cake to Nam cake, Loc cake, Hue Clam rice and Hue sweet soup, each dish gives visitors a deeper taste of the city’s heritage.
For international travelers, tasting Hue’s cuisine is more than just trying local food. It is a way to experience the spirit of Hue through flavor, presentation and tradition.
9. Recommend Hue City Tour Itinerary
08:30 – Dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River
09:00 – Thien Mu Pagoda
10:00 – Hue Imperial Citadel
11:30 – Dong Ba Market
12:00 – Lunch with Hue traditional dishes
13:30 – Khai Dinh Tomb
14:45 – Minh Mang Tomb
16:00 – Conical Hat Village and Incense Stick Village
10. Final thoughts
Whether you’re passionate about history, culture, food, or scenic landscapes, there are countless things to do in Hue for every traveler. While it’s possible to explore independently, many first-time visitors choose a Hue Tour to make the most of their time, enjoy expert local insights, and visit the city’s top attractions in a convenient itinerary. If you’re ready to discover the former imperial capital, explore our Hue City Tour and start planning your unforgettable journey today.
- COMBO 2 ROYAL TOMB + IMPERIAL CITY
- Hours Summer: 6:30 - 17:30 | Winter: 7:00 - 17:00
- Entrance Fee 420.000/pax
Wanna to explore this place?
Cooking Class at Madam Thu Restaurant
Love Hue cuisine and want to learn how to create its most iconic dishes? Join the “From Market to Table” cooking class with Madam Thu!
Sunset in Tam Giang Lagoon Guided Tour
Explore Tam Giang Lagoon from Hue on a sunset tour. Enjoy breathtaking lagoon views, local fishing culture and an authentic experience with a local guide.
Taste of Hue Food Tour by walking or cyclo
The romantic Hue city has long been famous not only for the harmonious beauty of the architecture and nature but also for the delectable rustic dishes luring the hearts of travelers. Therefore, your trip may not be complete if you come to Hue without tasting Hue food
