Hue is located in the central coastal region of Vietnam, about 670 km south of Hanoi and far from Ho Chi Minh City. Ho Chi Minh is about 1080 km to the North. The city is located on both sides of the romantic Perfume River, to the East is adjacent to the East Sea, to the West is adjacent to the majestic Truong Son range, creating harmony between mountains, rivers and sea.
Hue (full name is Thua Thien Hue) is the ancient capital city of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 - 1945). This place is famous for its ancient, quiet beauty, associated with world cultural heritages recognized by UNESCO, along with lyrical and poetic nature. For those who are planning to visit Hue City, immediately save the Hue city travel guide shared below. There will definitely be all the information for everyone to have the most memorable trip!

Province location Thua Thien Hue on Vietnam map
Perfume River and Ngu Mountain: Perfume River and Ngu Mountain are poetic symbols of the ancient capital of Hue, where nature and history harmonize blend together to create a lyrical, profound beauty. The peaceful Perfume River is like a blue silk strip winding around the city, reflecting the towering Ngu Binh Mountain - a "screen" protecting the capital. Standing on Ngu Mountain watching the Perfume River slowly drift by, visitors feel the peaceful breathing of the dreamy land of Hue. Perfume River and Ngu Mountain are not only landscapes but also endless sources of inspiration for poets and musicians, creating the soul of Hue poetry.

Lang Co Beach: is one of the most beautiful bays in the world, featuring a long winding strip of fine white sand, clear blue sea water and wild, majestic natural scenery. Located in Phu Loc district, Thua Thien Hue province, Lang Co captivates tourists with its peace and poetry, nestled between Hai Van Pass and Lap An Lagoon. With its harmonious natural beauty and fresh air, Lang Co beach is an ideal destination for tourists looking for a peaceful retreat, away from urban noise.
Thien Mu Pagoda (Linh Mu Tu): Thien Mu Pagoda (or Linh Mu Tu) is the most famous and sacred ancient pagoda in the ancient capital Hue, located on Ha Khe hill, overlooking the romantic Perfume River. Founded by Lord Nguyen Hoang in 1601, the pagoda is a long-standing symbol of Buddhist history, culture and architecture of Central Vietnam. The most prominent building is the towering 7-storey Phuoc Duyen Tower, not only an architectural highlight but also an inseparable symbol of Thien Mu Pagoda and Hue city.

Thien An Hill - Thuy Tien Lake: Thien An Hill - Thuy Tien Lake is a famous tourist destination in Hue city, covered with green pine forests and a peaceful space. Thuy Tien Lake is located in the middle of the hill, has a magical beauty with calm water surface and mysterious abandoned buildings. This place is an ideal check-in point for those who love to explore and seek a nostalgic feeling amidst poetic nature.

Vong Canh Hill: is the most ideal viewing spot in Hue, where tourists You can admire the entire winding, poetic beauty of the Perfume River. From the top of the hill, you can also have a panoramic view of the ancient tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty kings hidden among the green pine forests.
Bach Ma National Park (Eco-tourism and nature discovery destination): is an area Ecotourism is famous, attracting nature lovers with its diverse ecosystem and cool climate all year round. This place possesses majestic landscapes such as Do Quyen waterfall, Five Lakes and trekking routes through the forest, ideal for exploration and picnic activities.
Truong Tien Bridge:is a historical and architectural symbol of Hue city, spanning the gentle Perfume River with a design of six graceful curved steel rims. The bridge is not only a traffic artery but also a great place for visitors to stroll and enjoy the beauty of the ancient capital's rivers and waters, especially when the bridge lights up in the evening.
Hue Monuments Complex: Hue Monuments Complex is a world cultural heritage that includes many historical and architectural works built by the Nguyen Dynasty, such as the Imperial Citadel, Imperial Citadel, Forbidden City, mausoleums, palaces, temples, pagodas, and many other relics in Hue city today. Prominent relics include the Imperial Citadel, mausoleums of Nguyen kings (such as Minh Mang, Khai Dinh), An Dinh palace, Thien Mu pagoda, Ky Dai, and other works such as Temple of Literature and Vo Mieu.

Hue Monument Complex

Forbidden City: lis the central, sacred and most secret area in the Hue Citadel, once the living place of the king and royal family of the Nguyen Dynasty. This place is surrounded by a solid wall, only those with official duties are allowed in and out, clearly demonstrating the authority and seriousness of the ancient royal court. Despite going through time and war, the Forbidden City still has a quiet beauty, reminiscent of royal life and the golden history of the ancient capital of Hue.

Ming Mang Tomb: Minh Mang Tomb, also known as Hieu Lang, is the resting place of the second king of the Nguyen Dynasty, Minh Mang (1791-1841). The mausoleum is located on Cam Khe mountain (now Hieu Son), in Huong Tho commune, Huong Tra town, Hue city. This place is an ancient architectural masterpiece in harmony with nature, imbued with Confucian philosophy.
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Khai Dinh Tomb: Is the tomb of the 12th King of the Nguyen Dynasty. This is a unique architectural work, a delicate combination of Asian and European styles, with extremely sophisticated porcelain and glass mosaic reliefs. Although the scale is modest compared to other mausoleums, the construction is extremely elaborate, especially the Thien Dinh Palace with its splendid and detailed ceramic mosaic art (porcelain, colored glass), clearly demonstrating the lavish, "modern" personality of the 12th king of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Tu Duc Tomb (The mausoleum has the most poetic and lyrical architecture)
Hon Chen Palace (Religious relic located on the banks of the Perfume River)
Ky Dai Hue (The largest flagpole in Vietnam is located in the south of Hoang Hoang Citadel)
Tran Binh Dai (Mang Ca) (Military rampart area northeast of the capital)
An Dinh Palace (Residence of King Bao Dai and Queen Nam Phuong after the abdication)
Perfect time The best idea to travel to Hue is in the dry season, from around January to April.
January - February: The weather is cool, chilly, very suitable for exploring the relics without getting hot.
March - April: Warm weather, little rain, is when many festivals take place in Hue, especially Hue Festival (usually takes place in April, May or June of even-numbered years).
Note: From September to December is the rainy and stormy season, there may be floods.
Airplane: Phu Bai Airport (HUI): Route Hanoi, City. HCM. Hanoi - Hue / City. HCM - Hue: 700,000 - 2,000,000 VND/way (depending on airline and time).
Train: North - South railway line (Hue station): Hanoi - Hue, City. HCM - Hue, Da Nang - Hue. Hanoi/City. HCM - Hue: 600,000 - 1,500,000 VND (air-conditioned soft chair - air-conditioned bed). Da Nang - Hue: 100,000 - 300,000 VND (very beautiful, should try).
Passenger car: Route National Highway 1A: Hanoi - Hue, City. HCM - Hue, Da Nang - Hue. Hanoi/City. HCM - Hue: 350,000 - 550,000 VND (bed). Da Nang - Hue: 80,000 - 150,000 VND (limousine or seat). Reputable bus companies that you can refer to are: Hoang Long, Queen Cafe Open Bus, Camel Travel, Duc Thinh, Duy Tan Limousine, Phi Long...
Motorcycle/Bicycle: The most popular and versatile means of exploration. Motorbike rental price is about 100,000 - 150,000 VND/day.
Taxi/Grab: Convenient, available local taxi companies and Grab service (car and motorbike). Reputable Taxi companies such as Mai Linh Hue (Vehicle booking hotline: 1055); Thanh Cong Hue Taxi (Telephone number: 0234 357 5 757); Sun Hue Taxi (Phone number: 0234 366 77 88)
Cyclo: Ancient experience, very suitable for walking around the Citadel area and the banks of the Perfume River. You should negotiate the price before going (about 50,000 - 100,000 VND/hour).
Indochine Palace Hue Hotel (105A Hung Vuong): Indochine Palace Hue Hotel (105A Hung Vuong) is the most luxurious 5-star hotel in the ancient capital, with elegant and sophisticated Indochina architectural style. This place possesses a classy resort space, harmoniously combining classic features and modern amenities. With a city center location, Indochine Palace is an ideal stop for tourists who want to explore the cultural beauty and heritage of Hue. Room prices range (Reference): From 2,500,000 - 5,000,000 VND/night

Azerai La Residence Hue Hotel (5 Le Loi): Azerai La Residence Hue Hotel (5 Le Loi) is located on the banks of the romantic Perfume River, standing out with its unique and sophisticated Art Deco architecture. This is a luxurious resort, providing a peaceful and royal experience in the heart of the ancient capital. Room prices range from 3,500,000 - 8,000,000 VND/night.
In addition, you can refer to some other reputable addresses including:
TTC Imperial Hotel: Address: 08 Hung Vuong, Thuan Hoa Ward, Hue City. Phone: 0234 3882 222
Meliá Vinpearl Hue: Address: 50A Hung Vuong, Phu Nhuan Ward, Hue City. Phone: +84 234 368 8666
Senna Hue Hotel: Address: 07 Nguyen Tri Phuong, Phu Hoi Ward, Hue City. Phone: 0234 3858 686
Vedana Lagoon Resort & Spa (Phu Loc, Hue - far from the center 40km):Vedana Lagoon Resort & Spa (Phu Loc, Hue) is located in the middle of the romantic Lap An lagoon, about 40km from the city center, an ideal place to immerse yourself in peaceful nature. The resort is famous for its overwater villas, high-end spa services and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Room prices range from 3,000,000 - 6,000,000 VND/night

Angsana Lang Co (Lang Co, Phu Loc - 60km from the center):Angsana Lang Co (Phu Loc, Hue) is an area The 5-star resort is located between the blue sea and majestic mountains, about 60km from the city center. This place offers a luxurious, modern space along with many unique entertainment activities and cultural experiences. Reference price is about 3,000,000 - 5,000,000 VND/night

Huong Giang Hotel Resort & Spa: Address: 51 Le Loi, City. Hue; Phone: 0234 3822 122
Hue Riverside Boutique Resort & Spa: Address: 588 Bui Thi Xuan, Ward Thuy Bieu, City. Hue; Phone: 0234 3978 484
Vedana Lagoon: Address: 41/23 Doan Trong Truyen, Phu Loc, Thua Thien Hue; Phone: 0234 3681 688
A-mâze House (Homestay, 126B Phan Chu Trinh): A-mâze House (126B Phan Chu Trinh, Hue) is a homestay with creative design, youthful style and close to nature. This place offers a cozy, friendly accommodation space, suitable for those who want to experience Hue in a gentle and unique way. Room prices range from 350,000 - 700,000 VND/night
Hue Ecolodge (3-star hotel, 638 Nguyen Tat Thanh): is a 3-star hotel The star is located in the middle of a cool green space, imbued with an ecological style close to nature. This place offers a peaceful resort experience, suitable for tourists looking for relaxation and simplicity in the heart of Hue. Room prices range from 800,000 - 1,500,000 VND/night

You can also refer to:
Tinh Gia Vien Palace Restaurant: is a unique culinary destination, recreating the ancient royal space in the heart of Hue city. Here, visitors can enjoy exquisite royal dishes, elaborately prepared and presented in an elegant, Hue-style setting. Address: 7 Kiet/ 28 Le Thanh Ton, Hue Citadel; Phone: 02343.522.243 - 077 441 000. Popular prices range around 250,000 VND - 350,000 VND/person for a basic meal (about 8-10 dishes) in royal style.
Les Jardins de La Carambole Restaurant: (32 Dang Tran Con) located near the Hue Citadel, stands out with a classic and romantic French-style space. This is the ideal address to enjoy exquisite European and Asian cuisine in an elegant, cozy and artistic setting. Phone number to book a table is 0243.3815. Prices range from 200,000 VND - 300,000 VND/person for a meal with regular dishes.
Also you can refer to:
Ancient Hue Garden Houses Restaurant:Address: 104/47 Kim Long, Kim Long Ward, City. Hue; Phone: +84 923 321 988
Khai Hoan Com Nieu Restaurant: Address: 90–94 Le Loi, Phu Hoi Ward, City. Hue, Thua Thien Hue; Phone: 0234 383 7827
Hue Beef Noodles: Mother Candy Hue Beef Noodles( Local only: 20 Ba Trieu, Hue City; Characteristics: Clear, sweet broth from beef bones, mildly spicy, typical of Hue. The stewed pork and sausage are moderately soft and delicious). Hue beef noodle soup O Cuong – Uncle Diep (Address: 6 Tran Thuc Nhan, Hue city; Features: Famous for a long time, rich flavor, soft small noodles. The restaurant is crowded with locals and tourists; Hue beef noodle soup Ba Gai (Address: 11 Hanoi, Hue city; Features: The broth is rich in shrimp flavor, spicy, true to Hue. Rich toppings: pork sausage, beef patties, blood, rare beef...; Hue O Phung beef noodle soup (Address: 19 Nguyen Du, Hue City; Features: Famous for its dark broth, fragrant lemongrass and shrimp paste. Rustic atmosphere, friendly service)...Price ranges from only 20,000 - 50,000 VND/ 1 bowl
Banh Beo, Nam, Loc Restaurant: Ba Do Restaurant (Address: 8 Nguyen Binh Khiem, Hue City; Features: The oldest famous banh beo - nam - loc brand in Hue. Beautiful small cakes, rich shrimp and meat filling, harmonious sweet and spicy fish sauce. Clean space, quick service light; Banh beo is about 60,000 VND/serving (15 small cups); Banh beo, fried, and fried is about 50,000 VND/serving); Ba Cu Restaurant) (Address: 71 Nguyen Hue, Hue City; Features: Famous for sticky banh loc wrapped in banana leaves, fragrant with the smell of simmered shrimp. Banh beo is soft, fatty, poured in a small bowl - traditional Hue style; Prices range from about 25,000 - 50,000 VND for a portion/plate of all kinds of cakes); Quan Ba Hue (Address: 109 Le Huan, Hue City; Features: Handmade banh beo, nam, filter, filled with fresh peeled shrimp, spicy dipping sauce, rich in ancient Hue flavors. The restaurant is near the Citadel, convenient for tourists to visit and enjoy. Price ranges from 10,000 - 15,000 VND/serving..)
Dong Ba Market:If you come to Hue and have not visited Dong Ba Market, it is considered that you have not truly touched the culinary soul of the ancient capital. This place is not only the oldest and busiest market in Hue, but also a "paradise" of delicious rustic dishes, imbued with ancient Hue identity. Amidst the bustling space, visitors can easily see dozens of stalls close together with all kinds of colors - aromas - flavors: from spicy Hue beef noodle soup, soft and delicious banh beo, nam, lentil, to pressed cake, Hue sweet soup, trê or sesame truffle - simple yet sophisticated gifts. Every dish here is prepared by the people with all their heart, keeping the traditional flavor intact for many generations.

Mussel Rice (Con Hen): Enjoy mussel rice and mussel vermicelli right in the "capital" of Hen (Con Hen area). The most characteristic feature of Com Hen is the harmony of many flavors: the characteristic spicy taste, the salty taste of shrimp, the nutty taste of peanuts and the sweetness of hot mussel juice (drinked together or eaten separately). Hoa Dong Mussel Rice (64 Kiet 7 Ung Binh, Vy Da Ward, Hue City): Located right in the Con Hen area, famous for its original, rich flavor, a restaurant with more than 30 years of history. Ba Cam Mussel Rice (49 Tung Thien Vuong, Vy Da Ward, Hue City): A popular restaurant, famous for its meticulousness in processing and fresh mussels taken from Con Hen. Quan Nho (28 Pham Hong Thai or 07 Pham Hong Thai, Hue City): Located in the central area, convenient for tourists, serving mussel rice, mussel vermicelli and mussel noodles. Price only from 10,000 - 25,000 VND/plate
Festival Hue: Cultural, arts, and tourism festivals of national and international stature take place periodically every 2 years (usually in even years). Hue Festival is a national and international cultural and artistic event, held periodically in Hue city - a land of rich traditional heritage. Originating in 2000, Hue Festival is not only the largest festival of Thua Thien Hue but also a symbol of the intersection between heritage and modernity, tradition and integration.
Hon Chen Palace Festival: Hon Chen Palace Festival is held annually on two occasions, March and July of the lunar calendar, at Hue Nam Palace (Hon Chen Palace) on the banks of the romantic Perfume River, in Ngoc Tran Mountain (Huong Tho commune, Huong Tra town, Thua Thien Hue). This is a folk festival imbued with the belief of worshiping Mother Goddess Thien Y A Na, delicately blending folk culture and royal rituals.
Nam Giao and Xa Tac Sacrifices: are two of the most important ceremonies (ranked among the Great Temples) of the Vietnamese feudal court, especially under the Nguyen Dynasty in Hue Capital. These two sacrifices represent the king's concept of "Son of Heaven" and are the spiritual pillars of the agricultural nation.
Listening to Hue Ca on the Perfume River: Sitting on a dragon boat in the evening, enjoying traditional Hue melodies, admiring the city at night. In the middle of the peaceful Perfume River, when night falls, dragon boats glide lightly on the water, taking visitors into the enchanting artistic space of Ca Hue - a type of royal music combining folk quintessence, imbued with the soul of the ancient capital.

Participate in a conical hat/incense making class: Go to traditional craft villages such as Phu Cam hat village or Thuy Xuan incense village to make handmade products yourself.
Wearing Royal Costumes:Rent Nhat Binh costumes or traditional ao dai to take photos at the Citadel and mausoleums.
Meditation and Yoga at Ancient Pagodas: Participate in retreat activities at large pagodas such as Tu Hieu Pagoda.
Hue does not have many modern entertainment areas, but focuses on cultural and biological experiences Thai.
Amusement area/Park: Thuy Tien Park (currently abandoned but a unique check-in point). The park is located on Thien An Hill, in Thuy Bang commune, Huong Thuy town, about 10km southwest of Hue city center. The large dragon head statue located in the middle of the lake, once an aquarium, is the most famous symbol of the park.

Walking streets: Chu Van An, Pham Ngu Lao, Vo Thi Sau walking streets (Tay Ba Lo area) open on weekends, with many bars, pubs, and street food. This is the center of street art and entertainment activities. On weekend evenings, you can enjoy performances of singing, playing traditional and modern musical instruments, and dancing (group dance, modern dance) that attract both locals and tourists. Along the three streets are a series of colorful restaurants, eateries, bars, and cafes. This is the ideal place to enjoy both Hue specialties and international dishes, along with a bustling space, suitable for gathering with friends. The neighborhood also has shops selling souvenirs and handicrafts, making it easy for you to find Hue-style gifts.
Cinemas: Vincom Plaza or Big C (now GO!) have modern cinema complexes. great.
Hue one day:
Visit the Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, Khai Dinh Tomb, enjoy Com Hen, and learn to make Hue Cake.
Suggested organizer (Reference): Vietravel, Saigontourist, Hue Smiling Tour
Gestimated price is about 800,000-1,200,000 VND/person
Suburban cycling tour:
Cycling along the Perfume River, through craft villages and fields, visiting Tu Duc Tomb and Tu Hieu Pagoda.
Suggested organizers: Velo Tour Hue, Homestay organizers
Reference price: 1,000,000-2,500,000 VND/person
Trekking Bach Ma National Forest:
Explore the Five Lakes, Do Quyen waterfall, conquer Bach Ma peak.
Suggested organizer: Bach Ma Village, local travel companies specializing in Trekking
Reference price:1.500,000-3,000,000 VND/person
SUP on Tam Giang Lagoon/Huong River:
Stand up paddle boarding experience (SUP) watch sunrise/sunset.
Suggested organizer: Tam Giang Lagoon Tour, SUP River Hue
Reference price:600,000-1,200,000 VND/person
Tour combining Mausoleum - Sea:
Visit Minh Mang Tomb, Hon Chen Palace, then relax and swim at Thuan An or Lang Co beach.
Organizer: Local travel companies with private car rental services
Reference price:700,000-1,500,000 VND/person
Eco-tourism:
Experience Tam Giang lagoon: Take a boat tour, learn how to fish with fishermen, enjoy fresh seafood.
Organizer: Lagoon Discovery Tour, floating restaurants on Tam Giang Lagoon
Reference price:800,000-1,800,000 VND/person
Dong Ba Market: The largest market in Hue, selling all kinds of specialties such as Hue sour shrimp paste, Royal tea, sesame dried cakes and handicrafts. The market is usually open from 5:00 a.m. to about 7:00 p.m. daily. The afternoon is usually the busiest time for shopping and dining. The market is divided into 4 areas: 1st floor (Food area): Fresh food, dried seafood, fish sauce such as shrimp paste, Hue sour shrimp paste, fish sauce, dried seafood (dried shrimp, dried fish). 2nd floor (Handicraft area): Souvenirs, crafts, jewelry such as Bai Tho conical hats (Phu Cam conical hats), Hue Royal Tea, Sesame Dried Cake (Sesame Truong), incense, cajuput essential oil. Food area/Outside the bell tower is the Snacks area, Hue culinary specialties such as Hue beef noodle soup, mussel rice, banh beo, banh nam, banh loc, banh hoi, pressed cake, all kinds of Hue sweet soup (corn sweet soup, lotus seed sweet soup). 3rd floor (Fabric area): Garment fabrics, traditional ao dai. High quality fabric for sewing Hue ao dai (a cultural characteristic of Hue women).
Craft villages: Hue conical hats (Phu Cam hat village), Huong agarwood (Thuy Xuan incense village)

Special souvenirs: Ao dai, Nhat Binh shirt, handicraft products simulating Royal architecture (models of gates, towers)
Packaged culinary specialties: Sesame truffle (peanut candy) (A marshmallow or crunchy candy, made from malt, sugar, peanuts and covered with a layer of fragrant roasted sesame. Sesame truffle is one of the culinary symbols of Hue. Famous brands: Thien Huong, Hien Ky, Nam Thuan); Sour shrimp (A specialty sauce of Hue, made from fresh shrimp, usually ground shrimp, mixed with spices (galangal, garlic, chili) and wine, naturally fermented and sour); Royal Tea (As the name suggests, this is a type of tea prepared according to a recipe for ancient kings, including many precious herbs such as artichokes, licorice, chrysanthemums, lotus hearts, jasmine buds,...); banh it, banh loc (Traditional cakes of Hue such as Banh Bot Loc (filled with shrimp and meat, wrapped in banana leaves) and Banh It (filled with shrimp, meat or green bean paste) now have packaged and frozen versions for tourists to easily take home)
Attire: Hue has quite sunny weather in the summer and a lot of rain in the fall - winter, so you should bring a light jacket, hat, sunglasses and Sports shoes for ease of movement when visiting monuments. If visiting pagodas or mausoleums, you should choose polite, discreet clothing to show respect.
Cuisine: Hue is famous for many typical dishes such as Hue beef noodle soup, mussel rice, banh beo - nam - loc, sweet soup Hue and exquisite royal dishes. You can visit popular shops at Dong Ba market, or enjoy the luxurious atmosphere at restaurants like Tinh Gia Vien or Les Jardins de La Carambole.
Experience: You should spend time taking a boat ride on the Perfume River in the evening to listen to music. Hue, visit the Citadel, Thien Mu pagoda, Minh Mang and Tu Duc mausoleums. Early morning or late afternoon is the ideal time to take photos because of the soft light and fresh air.
Food and spending: Prices in Hue are relatively reasonable. When buying goods at the market or taking a cyclo, you should ask the price in advance to avoid price increases.
Rainy and stormy season (September - December): Monitor the forecast Be careful with weather reports, especially information about floods if going at the end of the year.
Security: Hue is a peaceful city with good security. However, you still need to be careful to preserve personal belongings, especially in crowded places like Dong Ba market.
Transportation: If renting a self-driving motorbike, bring all documents and wear a helmet according to regulations.
Police/Police: 113 (Emergency call)
Fire: 114 (Emergency call)
Ambulance: 115 (Emergency call level)
Thua Thien Hue Department of Tourism: (0234) 3822 590 (Standard tourist support)
Consumer Protection: (0234) 3822 052 (Contact Thua Thien Hue Market Management Department
Tourist Information: (0234) 3835 729 (Tourism Promotion Information Center)