25 Must-Visit Attractions in Hue Vietnam for First-Timers | 2023

Explore Hue's cultural richness through its top 25 must-visit attractions in this article, spanning from ancient citadels to serene pagodas. Delve into Vietnam's history and allure by discovering these carefully chosen attractions in Hue. Each attraction in Hue, which  provides a unique window into the city's rich heritage and charm, allowing you to uncover captivating stories of its past.

Hon Chen Temple

  • Admission: Free;
  • Opening hours: All day;
  • Address: Hai Cat Village, Huong Tra District, Thua Thien Hue;
  • Things not to miss: Explore the small structures inside Hon Chen Temple, join the Hon Chen Temple Festival.

Hon Chen Temple, situated on Ngoc Tran Mountain in Ngoc Ho Village, Huong Tra Town, Thua Thien Hue Province, holds profound spiritual significance for locals in Hue. It uniquely blends court rituals with folk beliefs, making it a singular place of worship in the region.

At the temple, ten structures grace the slopes of Ngoc Tran Mountain, overlooking the Huong River amidst verdant trees. Beyond its architectural marvel, Hon Chen Temple offers picturesque vistas, drawing tourists seeking sightseeing and photo opportunities.

Accessing the Hon Chen Temple is straightforward, with two primary transportation options:

  • A scenic Dragon Boat ride along the Huong River from the city center;
  • Traveling by road via Bui Thi Xuan Street to Huyen Tran Cong Chua Street, leading to Than Wharf, and crossing by ferry to reach the temple.

While open year-round, the best times to visit are the second and third days of the third lunar month (around April in the Gregorian calendar) and the autumn ceremony in lunar July (approximately August in the Gregorian calendar), coinciding with the Hon Chen Temple Festival - a grand folk celebration embodying the Holy Mother beliefs, offering insights into Hue's ancient spiritual heritage.

Tu Hieu Pagoda

  • Admission: Free;
  • Opening hours: All day;
  • Address: Duong Xuan Thuong III village, Thuy Xuan, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue;
  • Things not to miss: Admire the architecture of Tu Hieu Pagoda, Visit the unique cemetery of Nguyen Dynasty's high-ranking mandarins.

Tu Hieu Pagoda, located in Duong Xuan Hamlet amidst a vast pine forest, stands as one of Hue's oldest pagodas, constructed during the Nguyen Dynasty. Its architecture, influenced by the 19th-century feudal era, showcases intricately carved dragon and phoenix motifs on pillars and traditional tiled roofs, presenting a unique and impressive design.

Apart from its historical importance, the pagoda's tranquil atmosphere attracts visitors throughout the year. During the lunar month of July, which coincides with the Vu Lan Festival, one of the two major events in Buddhism, young Buddhists often come to the pagoda to honor their parents as an expression of gratitude for their nurturing and the gift of life. Easily accessible, just 5km from Hue's center, visitors can reach Tu Hieu Pagoda by motorbike, car, or taxi via Dien Bien Phu and Le Ngo Cat streets, following clear signs along the way.

Huyen Tran Princess Temple

  • Admission: Free;
  • Opening hours: All day;
  • Address: Huyen Tran Cultural Center, An Tay, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue;
  • Things not to miss: Visit the temple, join the Huyen Tran Festival.

Situated 8 kilometers south of Hue City, the Huyen Tran Cultural Center, known as the Huyen Tran Princess Temple, is a revered spiritual and tourist site. 

Originally established by Thua Thien - Hue locals, a temple dedicated to Princess Huyen Tran faced destruction due to historical turmoil and prolonged wars. In 2006, construction commenced on the Huyen Tran Cultural Center, culminating in its inauguration on March 26, 2007, marking 700 years since the region's formation.

Celebrated annually from the first to ninth days of the Lunar New Year, the Huyen Tran Festival commemorates the princess's legacy. This vibrant event features cultural performances from provinces like Quang Binh, Quang Tri, and traditional Hue court music, drawing thousands of visitors and locals for prayers, contemplation, and cultural immersion.

Bach Ma National Park

  • Admission:
    • Adults: VND 60,000 (~ USD 2.61) per person;
    • Children: 20,000 VND (~ USD 0.87) per child.
  • Opening hours: All day;
  • Address: Bach Ma National Park, Phu Loc district, Thua Thien Hue province;
  • Things not to miss: Visit Vong Hai Dai (sea observatory), Explore Bach Ma Five Lakes, Do Quyen and Tri Sao waterfall, Cho Den forest, Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery, Hue.

Bach Ma National Park in Hue allures adventurers with its diverse biology, rare flora, and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking unspoiled beauty and serenity. Encompassing 22.031 hectares, this primary forest shelters 1406 plant species and 931 animal species, many listed in Vietnam's Red Book.

The park experiences distinct dry and rainy seasons. Travelers are suggested  visiting during the dry season from December to April for a cooler, less rainy climate, perfect for outdoor activities like trekking and swimming.

Located 40 kilometers from Hue City, access is feasible via motorbike, self-driving, or taxi. Ascending to the park's peak can be done by trekking or hiring a tour vehicle. Prioritize your health and fitness before selecting your mode of transport.

Hue Temple of Literature

  • Admission: Free;
  • Opening hours: All day;
  • Address: Van Thanh Street, Huong Ho, Huong Tra, Thua Thien Hue;
  • Things not to miss: Explore and capture famous spots within the premises of the Hue Temple of Literature.

The Hue Temple of Literature is a dignified structure situated atop a gentle hill, facing southward and overlooking the poetic Huong River. It stands as a historical relic, offering a picturesque and majestic scenery that attracts numerous visitors, blending antiquity with grandeur.

Despite severe damage from its early days, the Hue Temple of Literature in Hue retains only a few significant architectural features. However, its mystical charm has transformed the site into a sought-after photography spot in Hue, drawing tourists to landmarks like:

  • The 32 stone steles at Hue Temple of Literature
  • The Divine Gate
  • The Grand Entrance of Hue Temple of Literature
  • Hue Temple of Literature's flower garden

Hue Temple of Literature welcomes visitors year-round with no entrance fee. Visitors are advised against scratching, writing, or sitting on the stone steles, dragon heads, etc., to preserve the aesthetic and historical value of the monument.

Nam Giao Esplanade

  • Admission: VND 50,000 (~USD 2) per person;
  • Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM;
  • Address: Truong An Ward, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue;
  • Things not to miss: Explore the architecture inside the Nam Giao Esplanade.

Nam Giao Esplanade, situated in the southern part of Hue's ancient citadel in Duong Xuan village, stands as a unique and artistically rich tourist attraction. This site served as the ceremonial grounds where kings conducted rituals to honor celestial and earthly elements.

Covering a 10-hectare area, the esplanade encompasses the Giao Altar and auxiliary structures like the Temple of the Than Tru, Trai Cung, Than Kho,... Besides the main altar, it includes auxiliary buildings such as the Royal Chamber, where the king performed purification rituals. In 1993, the Nam Giao Esplanade was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site. Four years later, in 1997, this site was officially designated as a national-level historical and cultural relic.

To reach Nam Giao Esplanade, visitors can use transportation options like motorcycles, taxis, or buses. This tourist spot welcomes visitors every day of the year, providing flexibility in planning your visit according to your schedule.

Quoc Hoc Hue - Century Old High School

  • Admission: Free;
  • Opening hours: 6:45 AM - 5:00 PM;
  • Address: 12 Le Loi, Vinh Ninh, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue;
  • Things not to miss: Exploring the school campus.

The Quoc Hoc High School, also known as Quoc Hoc Junior High School, sits serenely beside the scenic Huong River within the heart of Hue City. Its distinctive vibrant red gate adorns the lively main thoroughfare. With a rich history spanning over 120 years, it stands among Vietnam's three oldest educational institutions, fostering the growth of revered figures like President Ho Chi Minh, Prime Minister Pham Van Dong, historian Dao Duy Anh, General Vo Nguyen Giap, and Dr. Dang Van Ngu.

Accessing the school for visits might not always be feasible as it remains an active educational facility dedicated to its primary function. Visitors are generally welcomed in the afternoon on weekdays, while on Sundays, the school opens its doors to guests throughout the day. It's advisable to dress respectfully, avoiding overly casual or revealing attire to align with the school's esteemed educational ambiance.

Hue Imperial Citadel

  • Admission:
    • Adults: VND 150,000 (~ USD 6.16) per person;
    • Children: VND 30,000 (~ USD 1.23) per person.
  • Opening hours: Summer: 6:30 AM - 5:30 PM;  Winter: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM;
  • Address: Hue City, Thua Thien Hue;
  • Things not to miss: Explore the history, architecture, and historical sites within the Imperial City of Hue.

Hue Imperial Citadel, a significant part of the Hue Citadel, is renowned as a major tourist attraction. It once served as both the residence of kings and a place for ancestor worship in the Nguyen dynasty.

Centrally located in Hue City, visitors can easily access the Imperial City via Trang Tien or Phu Xuan Bridge from the southern Huong River bank. Optimal visiting times span any season, but particularly April and June of even-numbered years coincide with vibrant festivals showcasing unique art forms like water puppetry and traditional Hue singing.

Beyond its historical significance, the Hue Imperial Citadel offers a range of engaging activities for tourists. Admire the artistic masterpieces, such as Tu Cam Thanh, and immerse yourself in the enchanting Hue royal court music. Explore the exquisite architecture, enjoy traditional performances like water puppetry, and partake in vibrant festivals celebrating art and culture. 

For those planning a visit, mornings offer a refreshing atmosphere, while early afternoons are suitable for exploring the distinctive architecture within the Imperial City.

Tiger Arena & Voi Re Temple (Long Chau Temple)

  • Admission: Free;
  • Opening hours: All day;
  • Address: Truong Da Village, Thuy Bieu Ward, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue;
  • Things not to miss: Explore the history of formation and the unique architecture of the Tiger Arena & Voi Re Temple.

Tiger Arena & Voi Re Temple, a historical site in Hue with a legacy spanning over 200 years, is often hailed by locals as the "Vietnamese Colosseum”. Its unique architecture and the legendary story of a fierce battle between a tiger and an elephant draw the attention of tourists.

Historical documentation notes that the final life-or-death confrontation between a tiger and an elephant occurred at Tiger Arena in 1904, during King Thanh Thai's reign. Acknowledged as a national historical landmark in 1988 and esteemed by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site in 1993, Tiger Arena not only holds historical significance but also embodies profound cultural and ideological values from the Nguyen Dynasty era.

Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge

  • Admission: Free;
  • Opening hours: All day;
  • Address: Thuy Thanh Commune, Huong Thuy Town, Thua Thien Hue Province;
  • Things not to miss: Explore the ancient beauty and capture memorable photos at the Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge in Hue, and participate in the Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge festival.

The Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge stands as a significant tourist destination and historical landmark in the charming city of Hue. Beyond its artistic allure, this site holds deep historical significance, symbolizing the evolution of the ancient capital across centuries.

The architectural style of the Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge is described as "upper grandeur, lower simplicity", a unique construction method shared with a select few ancient bridges like the Khuc Thoai Bridge and the Phu Khe Bridge in the North, as well as the Cau Pagoda in Hoi An.

Visitors can experience the Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge during the 15th day of the lunar month, a time when the community in Thanh Thuy commune commemorates Mrs. Tran Thi Dao, a significant figure in the bridge's construction. The festivities include opening ceremonies, traditional rituals, and a range of cultural and tourism activities, offering visitors engaging and immersive experiences.

Dong Ba Market

  • Admission: Free;
  • Opening hours: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM;
  • Address: No. 2 Tran Hung Dao, Phu Hoa, Hue City;
  • Things not to miss: Experience shopping, taste local dishes, and buy souvenirs.

Dong Ba Market in Hue stands as the city's most renowned traditional market, steeped in rich cultural and historical significance. It presents a diverse array of goods, ranging from clothing and household items to fresh produce, dried foods, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Situated at the heart of Hue, locating Dong Ba Market is hassle-free. Accessing it from your accommodation, whether by taxi or motorbike, along Tran Hung Dao Street beside the Perfume River, leads directly to this vibrant market.

At all times, Dong Ba Market bustles with activity, offering a wide variety of items for sale. However, based on the experience of visiting, exploring the market after 3:00 PM is advisable. The weather is usually more pleasant, and the crowd thins out, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Additionally, this is when many food stalls begin selling, making it an ideal time to sample local delicacies.

Duyet Thi Duong - Hue Royal Theater

  • Admission: VND 200,000 (~ USD 8.22) per person;
  • Opening hours: 6:30 AM - 5:30 PM;
  • Address: Doan Thi Diem, Phu Hau, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue;
  • Things not to miss: Experience various traditional art forms, explore the architecture of the ancient theater.

The Duyet Thi Duong Theater was erected during the Nguyen Dynasty as a performance venue nestled within the Forbidden City. This grand architectural masterpiece served primarily as the royal court theater.

It showcased various traditional art forms: court music, court dances, classical opera, tuong (classical Vietnamese opera), and dramas. The audience comprised the king, court ladies, high-ranking officials, and esteemed foreign guests.

The theater schedules four performances daily:

Morning:

  • Show 1: 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM;
  • Show 2: 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM;

Afternoon:

  • Show 3: 2:30 PM - 3:15 PM;
  • Show 4: 3:30 PM - 4:15 PM.

Visiting during these time slots allows you to experience court music performances and admire the aesthetics of Vietnam's oldest theater. Its intricate designs, architecture, and exquisite details reflect the essence of the Nguyen royal court.

My Lam Conical Hat Making Village

  • Admission: Free;
  • Opening hours: All day;
  • Address: Phu My Commune, Phu Vang District, Thua Thien Hue Province;
  • Highlights: Explore the beauty of the craft village, learn how to make conical hats with local artisans.

For centuries, Hue has been the hub for crafting conical hats in traditional villages like Da Le, Sia, Phu Cam, Kim Long, Đoc So, and Trieu Tay. Spanning almost 160 years, the My Lam conical hat-making village has sustained generations - around 80% of households still practice this traditional craft.

Recognized in 2013 as a key traditional craft village of Hue, My Lam celebrates its dedication to preserving this art, safeguarding a unique cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the meticulous process of creating these elegant hats, from frame selection to intricate pattern design, each step requiring exceptional skill and attention to detail.

The best time to visit My Lam hat craft village in Hue would be during the dry season, which typically spans from March to August. This period offers more favorable weather conditions for exploring the village and witnessing the intricate process of crafting conical hats. However, it's also worth noting that the village welcomes visitors throughout the year, so you can plan a visit based on your preferences and schedule.

Mo Waterfall

  • Admission:
    • 150,000 VND (~ USD 6.16) per person;
    • Free for children under 1,3m;
  • Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM;
  • Address: Xuan Phu Hamlet, Huong Phu Commune, Nam Dong District, Thua Thien Hue Province;
  • Things not to miss: Bathing in the stream, participating in team-building activities, overnight camping, enjoying Hue's specialty dishes.

Mo Waterfall, also called Nam Dong Mo Waterfall within Hue's YesHue Eco-ecotourism area, showcases a majestic sight of cascading white waters and four natural pools. 

The pristine and refreshing waters offer an ideal escape, perfect for unwinding and team-building activities. Camping at Mo Waterfall is a popular choice, providing the necessary gear for families and friends to revel in the natural beauty amidst the mountains.

The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to August, allowing convenient travel and a chance to cool off under the refreshing waterfall amid the summer heat. However, exploring the waterfall in other seasons offers a diverse natural beauty within the mountainous forests.

Hue Royal Antiquities Museum

  • Admission: 50,000 VND (~ USD 2.05) per person;
  • Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM;
  • Address: 03 Le Truc, Phu Hau, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue;
  • Things not to miss: Explore the museum and admire the Hue Royal Antiquities.

Established in 1923, the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum stands as the oldest museum in the former imperial capital. The Hue Imperial City Relics Preservation Center is housed in Long An Palace, a historic architectural gem dating back to 1845. This museum showcases invaluable collections reflecting the Nguyen dynasty's aristocracy and ruling class, displaying their material life, political ceremonies, and ideologies.

Additionally, it houses a unique Cham antiquities section, exhibiting exemplary Cham sculptural art spanning centuries. This section aims to bridge the gap between visitors and Cham culture, highlighting the significance of Cham sculptural art in its cultural evolution.

Located within Hue's Imperial City precinct, reaching the museum is easy by motorbike or taxi. The city center offers motorcycle rentals ranging from USD 4.93 to USD 6.16 per day. The museum operates daily from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM (7:00 AM during winter), welcoming visitors any day of the week.

Tam Giang Lagoon

  • Admission: Free;
  • Opening hours: All day;
  • Address: Spanning the territories of 4 districts: Phong Dien, Quang Dien, Huong Tra, and Phu Vang, Thua Thien Hue Province;
  • Things not to miss: Witnessing the sunset and sunrise at Tam Giang Lagoon, exploring Chuon Lagoon, visiting Thai Duong Ha fishing village, and the brackish Ru Cha Mangrove Forest.

The Hue region boasts the expansive Tam Giang Lagoon, a vast wetland spanning approximately 52 square kilometers within Thua Thien Hue province. This lagoon stands out as the largest brackish water lagoon in Southeast Asia.

Exploration of Tam Giang Lagoon doesn't require an entry fee. However, certain services come at a cost:

  • Renting a motorbike in Hue: Typically priced between 120,000 - 150,000 VND per day;
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) on Tam Giang Lagoon: Approximately 100,000 VND per person;
  • Boat rentals: Prices vary as per local rates.

Travel options to access Tam Giang Lagoon include taxis, motorbikes, or cars. For taxi rides, opting for reputable companies is recommended for safety.

For travelers with a limited day in Hue, consider arriving in the afternoon to catch the sunset, spend the night, and witness the sunrise over Tam Giang Lagoon the next morning. This captivating experience will undoubtedly be a memorable part of any visit to Hue.

Thien Mu Pagoda

  • Admission: Free;
  • Opening hours: All day;
  • Address: Kim Long Ward, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province;
  • Things not to miss: Learn about the history and stories surrounding Thien Mu Pagoda, and explore the structures inside the pagoda.

Thien Mu Pagoda is widely recognized as the most prominent temple in Hue city, earning the prestigious title of the "Foremost Ancient Pagoda" in this former imperial region due to its ancient architectural grandeur, spiritual significance, and rich tapestry of enigmatic historical narratives. 

Situated merely 5 kilometers away from Hue's city center, accessing Thien Mu Pagoda is hassle-free through various transportation modes like cyclos, taxis, or scooter rentals. You can explore Thien Mu Pagoda at any time throughout the year. However, the optimal time might be the early months, spanning from January to March. During this period, the weather remains pleasantly cool, providing a comfortable atmosphere ideal for leisurely exploration amidst the temple's picturesque setting.

Tu Duc Tomb

  • Admission: VND150,000 (~ USD 6.16) per person;
  • Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM;
  • Address: Thuy Ba Hamlet, Thuy Bieu Commune, Thuy Xuan Ward, Hue City;
  • Things not to miss: Explore the structure and smaller constructions within Tu Duc's Tomb.

Nestled in a serene valley near Duong Xuan Thuong village, Tu Duc Tomb graces the picturesque Vong Canh Hill. Despite the 143-year Nguyen Dynasty rule with 13 kings, only 7 royal tombs endure.

Among them, Tu Duc Tomb proudly stands as one of the four most beautiful tombs in the former capital, recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site. It also holds the honor of being among Vietnam's earliest historical relics featured in the 3D digital museum of the Google Arts & Culture project.

Tu Duc Tomb distinguishes itself through five unique subdivisions, each contributing to the distinctive character of this royal burial site. Khiem Cung Mon serves as a grand entrance, leading to Luong Khiem Palace, showcasing imperial architecture. The Minh Khiem Theater highlights cultural aspects, while Tinh Khiem Island provides a serene retreat amidst greenery. The Tomb area, Tu Duc's final resting place, features intricate design and symbolic elements, collectively making Tu Duc Tomb a captivating blend of history and architecture.

Just 6 kilometers from the city center, it's easily reachable by motorbike, bicycle (if you don't mind the sun), or taxi. Enveloped in lush greenery, the tomb combines regal grandeur with romantic touches. Visitors revel in its serene atmosphere amidst Hue's scenic landscapes.

Minh Mang Tomb

  • Admission:
    • Adults: VND100,000 (~ USD 4.11) per person;
    • Elderly: VND 50,000 (~ USD 2.05) per person;
    • Children aged 7 - 12: 80,000 VND (~ USD 3.27) per child;
    • Children under 7: Free.
  • Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM;
  • Address: Cam Ke Mountain, Huong Tho Commune, Huong Tra Town, Thua Thien Hue Province;
  • Things not to miss: Explore the history and architecture of Minh Mang's Tomb, discover its unique highlights.

Emperor Minh Mang's Tomb is renowned for its harmonious Feng Shui placement amidst nature's elements - mountains, rivers, and lakes. Its imperial architecture reflects the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty. Serving as a tribute to past generations, it's now a prime attraction in Hue, part of the city's historical ensemble.

Spread across 18 hectares, the tomb complex features 40 symmetrically arranged structures, resembling a reclining figure. Trung Minh Lake's serene curves add to its tranquility. You can explore the unique check-in points at Minh Mang Mausoleum, including:

  • The grand entrance Dai Hong Mon;
  • The spiritual Bai Dinh Pagoda;
  • The historic Lau Minh Lau;
  • The tranquil Tam Dien area;
  • The picturesque Tan Nguyet Lake;
  • The symbolic Bridge of Intelligence and Integrity;
  • The intricately designed Hien Duc Mon.

Each location offers a distinct facet of Minh Mang's legacy, creating a captivating journey through imperial history and architectural splendor.

The most pleasant weather in Hue falls around early spring, from January to February, featuring cool, sunny days with minimal rain - an ideal time for visiting Minh Mang's Tomb and other historical sites.

To reach Minh Mang's Tomb, you have two options including:

  • Option 1: Taxi or rent a motorbike, follow QL49 along the Huong River to Tuan Bridge, then head straight to the tomb;
  • Option 2: Take a dragon boat upstream on the Huong River, merging at Ta Trach and Huu Trach streams to reach the tomb.

When visiting, dressing modestly in harmonious, traditional colors is advised to respect the solemn atmosphere of the site.

Khai Dinh Tomb

  • Admission:
    • Adults: 150,000 VND (~ USD 6.16) per person;
    • Children: 30,000 VND (~ USD 1.23) per child.
  • Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM;
  • Address: Thuy Bang Commune, Huong Thuy District, Hue;
  • Things not to miss: Explore the architecture of Khai Dinh Tomb, and visit prominent areas within Khai Dinh Tomb.

Khai Dinh Tomb, a significant part of Hue's imperial tomb complex, allures tourists with its unique design featuring intricate porcelain art. As one of the Nguyen Dynasty's distinguished tomb areas, it showcases Vietnam's ancient architecture blending Eastern and Western cultural styles.

Roughly 10 kilometers southwest of the city center, there are diverse transport options available to reach the tomb, including cars, taxis, or the freedom of a motorbike ride along Highway 49. Budget-friendly bus routes from the South to Dong Ba Market have stops close to Khai Dinh Tomb.

Khai Dinh Tomb boasts unique check-in points that set it apart from other royal tombs. The grand Triple Gate, picturesque Nghi Mon and Bai Dinh Yard, and the magnificent Thien Dinh Palace showcase Khai Dinh's eclectic taste, blending Western and Eastern design elements. These distinct features make Khai Dinh Tomb a culturally rich and unforgettable destination.

The best time to explore Hue and visit Khai Dinh Tomb is during the pleasant months of January and February, perfect for sightseeing and photography. Furthermore, during select holidays, Khai Dinh Tomb offers free entry, making it a recommended addition to your Hue itinerary.

Gia Long Tomb

  • Admission:
    • Adults: 150,000 VND (~ USD 6.16) per person;
    • Children: Free.
  • Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM;
  • Address: Dinh Mon Hamlet, Huong Tho Commune, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province;
  • Things not to miss: Explore the tomb's architecture, discover the story of King Gia Long and the Empress, and visit prominent areas within Khai Dinh Tomb.

Gia Long Tomb, also known as Thien Tho Tomb, is the resting place of Vietnam's first Nguyen Dynasty monarch, steeped in the romantic history of Emperor Gia Long and the Empress. In fact, the Gia Long Tomb is a complex of tombs, including the beloved family members of the king. Among them, the key sites are the tombs of King Gia Long and Queen Thua Thien Cao.

This historic site stands out as a captivating jewel among the renowned royal mausoleums of the Nguyen Dynasty in Hue. Nestled within a sprawling pine forest, adorned with 42 picturesque hills of all shapes and sizes, the tomb exudes an enchanting blend of ancient charm and pristine tranquility. 

Visitors today can access the mausoleum by two routes:

  • Crossing a locally-built pontoon bridge over the Ta Trach River;
  • Taking the main road via Tuan Bridge, passing Minh Mang Tomb and Huu Trach Bridge en route.

Stepping inside, one experiences a solemn and peaceful atmosphere amidst stone and enamel brick structures showcasing diverse architectural styles. Beyond its architectural marvels, Gia Long Tomb boasts lush gardens and trees, fostering a thriving ecosystem for various bird species and wildlife. Tourists can leisurely explore the grounds, delve into the nation's cultural history, and enjoy the stunning vistas.

It's advisable to avoid visiting Gia Long's tomb from September to November due to heavy rainfall during the late monsoon season. 

Dong Khanh Tomb

  • Admission:
    • Adults: 50,000 VND (~ USD 2.05) per person;
    • Children aged 7 - 12: Free.
  • Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM;
  • Address: Thuong Hai Hamlet, Thuy Xuan Commune, Hue City;
  • Things not to miss: Explore the Dong Khanh Tomb complex.

Dong Khanh Tomb, also referred to as Tu Lang, resides in Cu Si Village, Duong Xuan Commune (now Thượng Hai Hamlet, Thuy Xuan Commune, in Hue City). Adorned with ancient charm and a serene atmosphere, Dong Khanh Tomb holds a significant place within Hue's Complex of Monuments, acknowledged as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site since 1993.

Exploring Dong Khanh Tomb offers insights into its extensive history of construction. Over 35 years, this tomb underwent construction, refurbishment, and modernization across four reigns, from King Dong Khanh to King Thanh Thai, King Duy Tan, and finally, during the era of King Khai Dinh.

For a visit, it's advisable to plan during the initial months of the year, typically from January to April. This period boasts pleasant weather in Hue City, characterized by sunny days and a peaceful atmosphere, free from rain and with cooler temperatures.

Huong River

  • Admission: Free;
  • Opening hours: All day;
  • Address: City center of Hue, Thua Thien Hue Province;
  • Things not to miss: Enjoy the beauty of the Huong River on a boat cruise, experience Hue's traditional music, admire the sunset on the Huong River.

The Huong River in Hue proudly stands as a hallmark of the ancient city, mesmerizing visitors with its innate beauty that never fails to captivate. Throughout history, this river has been a conduit for poets, carrying their emotions and thoughts, serving as an endless muse for crafting enduring literary and artistic masterpieces, a legacy cherished till present times.

Hue's traditional royal music on the Huong River is hailed as a unique delicacy. Any visitor to the ancient capital must set aside at least an evening to indulge in this exceptional art form, surrendering to its deep melodies and evocative tunes, an experience unparalleled elsewhere. The ticket prices for these activities range from approximately 200.000 - 1.000.000 VND ($8.70 to $43.50)

The prime time to witness the Huong River's beauty is typically from 5:00 PM to 5:30 PM, when the sunset casts its mesmerizing glow, revealing the river's unbridled charm. Generally, tourists can explore the Huong River in Hue at any time of the year, yet spring or autumn emerges as the most ideal. These seasons offer agreeable weather, gentle and clear river waters, and a myriad of delectable local specialties unique to the ancient capital.

Vong Canh Hill

  • Admission: Free;
  • Opening hours: All day;
  • Address: 102 Huyen Tran Cong Chua, Thuy Bieu, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue;
  • Things not to miss: Enjoying the sunset at Vong Canh Hill.

The Vong Canh Hill in Hue stands as an essential destination for those exploring the city. It showcases exquisite natural beauty amidst the sky, rivers, mountains, and lush greenery, earning its reputation as the prime spot to witness Hue's stunning sunset.

Visitors arriving at Vong Canh Hill will be treated to the enchanting landscapes of Hue's natural allure. Surrounded by expansive pine forests, the hilltop offers a panoramic view of majestic mountains and the serene curves of the Huong River below. Tourists have the opportunity to explore the tombs of kings from various dynasties located approximately 500 - 700 meters away from Vong Canh Hill.

While there are various transportation options to reach Vong Canh Hill, the preferred choice for many is using a motorbike. From the city center, renting a self-driven motorbike equipped with Google Maps or seeking directions from locals is a convenient option. The travel time to the hill is approximately 30 minutes. It's advisable to drop off belongings at the hotel for check-in and then rent transportation to reach the hill.

The most favorable time to appreciate Vong Canh Hill's beauty is during dusk, typically between 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM in summer. This period presents an ideal opportunity to witness the captivating Hue sunset. 

Thuan An Beach

  • Admission: Free;
  • Opening hours: All day;
  • Address: Thuận An Town, Phu Vang District, Hue City;
  • Things not to miss: Sea bathing and savoring local specialties, visit tourist attractions (near) Thuan An beach.

Thuan An Beach, situated near the Thuan An River, boasts three well-developed sections, making it a thriving hub for beach tourism in Hue. Regarded as one of the city's most stunning beaches, it charms visitors with its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. Ideal for those seeking a tranquil and refreshing beach experience.

Thuan An Beach is approximately 15 kilometers away from Hue City, so it takes you about a 30-minute drive to get here.The best time to visit Thuan An Beach is from April to September, the summer season when the weather is sunny and warm, yet the sea remains cool and inviting, providing the perfect escape for relaxation and water activities amidst scenic views of blue skies, white clouds, and golden sunlight. Travelers have various options for activities and sightseeing near Thuan An Beach, such as visiting Tran Hai Dai, Thai Duong Phu Nhân Temple, the fishing port, camping, and checking in at Century Beach.

These 25 must-visit attractions in Hue encapsulate the city's rich cultural heritage and historical significance, ensuring an unforgettable experience for first-timers exploring the diverse array of attractions in Hue. From imperial citadels to scenic landscapes, Hue offers a captivating journey through its heritage, enticing travelers to delve into its charm and immerse themselves in the allure of the attractions in Hue, Vietnam.