Is Hue Vietnam Worth Visiting? 6+ Reasons Why This City Attracts Millions Of Tourist

Is Hue Vietnam worth visiting? Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hue attracts visitors from all around the world who are eager to explore its remarkable landmarks, ancient temples, royal tombs, beautiful beaches, and vibrant traditions. Let’s take a deeper look at why Hue has become such a popular tourist destination and why you should consider visiting this historic gem.

1. Overview of Hue Ancient Capital 

1.1. Location and Characteristics

Hue is located in central Vietnam, approximately 700 kilometers north of Ho Chi Minh City and 100 kilometers south of Da Nang. Nestled along the banks of the Perfume River, this city is famous for its historical landmarks, royal architecture, and tranquil landscapes. Geographically, Hue is surrounded by lush greenery and is backed by the Annamite Mountains, creating a picturesque environment that invites exploration.

The city enjoys a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons. The dry season lasts from March to August and is ideal for sightseeing, while the rainy season runs from September to December. Despite the tropical weather, the air in Hue is often more temperate due to its proximity to the mountains, making it a comfortable destination year-round.

Hue is located in central Vietnam, renowned for its rich historical and cultural heritage (Source: Internet)

1.2. Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Hue is between January and April when the weather is cooler, and the chance of rain is lower. This period offers pleasant temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring Hue’s historical landmarks. Avoid traveling during the summer months (June to August) when the city can experience high temperatures and increased humidity.

1.3. 3+ Ways to get to Hue 

Traveling to Hue is convenient from various regions in Vietnam:

• By train: The train journey to Hue offers scenic views of the coast and mountains. It is an enjoyable and comfortable way to reach the city.

• By bus: Numerous bus services connect Hue with major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The bus ride typically takes 12-15 hours, depending on the departure city.

• By private car: For more flexibility and comfort, traveling by private car or taxi is an excellent choice.

• By air: Phu Bai International Airport is located about 15 kilometers from the city center, offering domestic flights from major airports in Vietnam.

Within Hue, transportation options include:

• Car or motorbike rental: Renting a car or motorbike allows for easy exploration of the city at your own pace.

• Taxi: Taxis are readily available for short trips within Hue

• Bicycle: For a more eco-friendly and leisurely way to explore the city, bicycles are available for rent.

Hue, once the capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty, is an enchanting city that combines a rich cultural heritage, a fascinating history, and a stunning natural landscape  (Source: Internet)

2. 6+ Reason Why Hue Became a Famous Tourist Destination

2.1. UNESCO World Heritage Monuments

Hue is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it a top cultural and historical destination:

• The Imperial Citadel: Located in the heart of Hue, this enormous fortress complex served as the seat of the Nguyen emperors. It is a stunning architectural masterpiece with its vast courtyards, grand halls, and intricate carvings.

• The Tombs of the Nguyen Emperors: The royal tombs scattered around the city are spectacular and reflect the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty. Notable tombs include those of Emperor Minh Mang, Emperor Tu Duc, and Emperor Khai Dinh. Each tomb is set in a tranquil natural environment and features remarkable architectural designs that combine traditional Vietnamese and French influences.

• An Dinh Palace: A beautiful example of 19th-century Vietnamese architecture.

• Thien Mu Pagoda: A symbol of Hue’s spiritual heritage, this pagoda is one of the oldest and most iconic in Vietnam. Located on a hill overlooking the Perfume River, the pagoda is a peaceful place for reflection and a must-see for anyone visiting Hue

The royal tombs showcase unique architectural styles and historical significance (Source: Internet)

2.2. Natural Beauty

Hue is not only known for its historical sites but also for its stunning natural beauty. The region boasts pristine beaches, lush mountains, and serene lakes.

• Lang Co Beach: Located about 30 kilometers from Hue, Lang Co is an idyllic beach known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine sand. It’s perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

• Lap An Lagoon: This peaceful lagoon offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is an ideal spot for photography and picnics.

• Bach Ma National Park: Known for its biodiversity and natural beauty, Bach Ma National Park is a haven for nature lovers and hikers. With waterfalls, hiking trails, and rich wildlife, it’s a fantastic destination for those who want to escape the city and connect with nature.

The outskirts of Hue are home to many picturesque and scenic landscapes (Source: Internet)

2.3.  “Ca Tru”– Intangible Cultural Heritage

Hue is famous for Ca Tru, a unique form of Vietnamese opera that dates back over 1,000 years. Ca Tru is performed by a female singer accompanied by a traditional ensemble, and the lyrics often explore themes of love, fate, and the human condition. This art form has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, and you can experience it at several venues around Hue.

Tourists can book a night river cruise on the Perfume River to enjoy Ca Tru performances (Source: Internet)

2.4. Exquisite Local Cuisine

Hue is renowned for its royal cuisine, which was developed during the Nguyen Dynasty and is known for its delicate flavors and intricate presentation.

• Banh khoai: A crispy, savory pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and vegetables. It is often served with a dipping sauce.

• Banh beo: Small, steamed rice cakes topped with shrimp, pork, and crispy shallots, typically served with fish sauce.

• Banh loc: Transparent tapioca dumplings filled with shrimp or pork, usually wrapped in banana leaves.

• Banh nam: A type of steamed rice cake with shrimp, wrapped in banana leaves.

• Com hen: A simple but flavorful dish made with rice, baby clams, herbs, and crispy rice crackers, reflecting the region’s coastal culture.

Com Hen is a humble yet must-try dish (Source: Internet)

2.5. Unique Craft Villages

Hue is also known for its craft villages, where visitors can observe traditional artisans at work and purchase authentic handmade products.

• Huong So Village: Famous for its production of traditional Vietnamese conical hats 

• Xuan Thuy Village: Renowned for its incense-making.

• Phuoc Tich Village: Known for producing high-quality pottery.

• Tu Lien Flower Village: A vibrant flower village that grows a wide variety of blossoms, from lotus flowers to chrysanthemums.

The vibrant scene at Xuan Thuy Village (Source: Internet)

2.6. Entertainment and Shopping

Aside from sightseeing, Hue also offers several entertainment options for visitors to enjoy.

• Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street: This pedestrian-friendly street is filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s an excellent place for a leisurely stroll, enjoy street performances, and shop for souvenirs.

• Night Market: The bustling night market in Hue is a great place to experience the local culture, taste street food, and buy handmade products from the region.

Hue city is lively at night (Source: Internet)

3. 3+ Tips When Travel to Hue

3.1. Travel Tips

• By air: Flying is the quickest way to get to Hue, especially if you're coming from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. The Phu Bai International Airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.

• By train: The train journey to Hue offers stunning views, making it an enjoyable way to reach the city. Train rides are comfortable and afford the chance to relax while traveling.

• By bus: Long-distance buses connect Hue to many other major cities, but they are usually more time-consuming compared to trains and flights.

3.2. Accommodation Tips

Hue offers a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Some popular options include:

• Meliá Vinpearl Hue: No. 50A Hung Vuong Street, Phu Nhuan District, Hue City

• Senna Hue Hotel: No. 07 Nguyen Tri Phương Street, Phu Nhuan District, Hue City

• Pilgrimage Village Resort & Spa: No. 130 Minh Mang Street, Thuy Xuan District, Hue City

• Azerai La Residence: No. 05 Le Loi Street, Hue City

• Indochine Palace: No. 105A Hung Vuong Street, Phu Nhuan District, Hue City

Hotels in Hue are very diverse, offering a wide range of options across different price segments (Source: Internet)

3.3. Additional Tips

• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing, as you’ll likely be walking a lot while exploring the historical sites. In the summer, it’s best to dress light, while in the cooler months, a jacket or sweater might be needed.

• Shopping: Hue is known for its local handicrafts, so be sure to pick up some souvenirs like traditional conical hats, handmade pottery, or embroidered silk.

Is Hue Vietnam worth visiting? This place is a unique blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring the ancient citadel, enjoying the delicious local food, or relaxing by the beach, Hue offers something for every traveler. With proper planning, your trip to Hue will be a memorable and enriching experience.

To explore the unique heritage of Hue , book your Flight to Hue with Vietnam Airlines today! For more details on flights, baggage policies, and travel itineraries, contact Vietnam Airlines via their hotline at 1900 1100, or through Fanpage or Zalo for expert advice.