Vietnam’s city of Hue is a destination like no other. With a long and proud history, captivating culture and a wealth of amazing sights to take in, it’s a travel experience not to be missed. The city, located just southwest of Hanoi on the Huong River near the ocean, offers an amazing range of experiences that is sure to please any traveler. Here’s all you need to know about visiting Hue and the top things to see!

History of Hue

Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue has a long and proud history that’s still seen in the city today. Founded in the early 19th century, this was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty and the imperial court, and it’s still known as the Cultural Capital of Vietnam. In fact, it has also been declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its history and culture.

The old imperial architechture, royal tombs, pagodas and ancient monuments tell a story of the past and create a unique atmosphere in the city, making it an ideal destination for culture-seekers.

Top 7 Things to See in Hue

Hue has plenty of amazing sights and attractions to take in. Here are the top 7 sights you should add to your itinerary:

  • Imperial Citadel: This ancient walled city was built between 1805 and 1832, and still stands today as a testament to Vietnam’s imperial past. Inside the Citadel, explore pavilions, courtyards, gardens, and other buildings.
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: This pagoda is one of the oldest and most iconic in Hue. Take in the beautiful architecture, explore the grounds and visit the museum to learn more about its history.
  • Tomb of Minh Mang: This memorial was built to honor the second emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty, and features an amazing fusion of Chinese and Vietnamese architecture. It’s considered one of the most beautiful tombs in the city.
  • Vong Canh Hill: This picturesque hill provides a stunning view of the city and the Huong River. It’s a popular spot to watch the sunset and get some amazing photographs.
  • Hue Royal Theater: This beautiful theater was built in the late 19th century and still stands today. Catch a performance here to get a glimpse of traditional music, song, and dance.
  • Dong Ba Market: Visit this lively market to find all sorts of unique souvenirs, handicrafts, and other one-of-a-kind items.
  • Truong Tien Bridge: This historical bridge, built in 1899, was the first steel bridge to be constructed in Vietnam. It’s an iconic sight in the city, and a great spot for photography.

Food Culture in Hue

Hue is known for its rich and diverse cuisine, which is influenced by both Vietnamese and imperial Chinese traditions. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and food stalls to explore, as well as some unique dishes. Try some of the local delicacies, such as banh khoai (a type of crepe made with shrimp), banh beo (rice cakes) and com hen (clam rice).

Food lovers should also make sure to sample some of the amazing street food on offer in Hue. Vendors sell everything from grilled meats to fresh fruit and desserts, and the city is well-known for its banh cuon (thin rolls of steamed rice flour filled with pork and mushrooms).

Unique Things About Hue

Hue has plenty of activities to keep travelers busy. One lesser-known activity is dragon boat racing, which is held annually in August. You can also take a cruise on the Huong River and watch the sun set over the city.

The city hosts plenty of events throughout the year, from music and art festivals to film screenings, parades, and markets. Visit during the Hue Festival for the ultimate cultural experience.

Getting to Hue

Hue is located within the Thua Thien-Hue province of Vietnam, and is a great place to explore the central area of the country. The easiest way to get to Hue is to fly into Vietnam’s second largest airport, Da Nang, which is located just a few hours away. From there, it’s a short bus or taxi ride to Hue itself.

There is also a comprehensive train system in Vietnam that connects Hue to other cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, making it easy to explore the country. Buses are also available for those who prefer to take the scenic route.

When to Visit

Hue has an ideal tropical climate, and the best time to visit is during the dry season from February to April. During this time, temperatures are mild and the weather is generally sunny, making it an ideal time to explore the city.

The city can also be visited year-round, although the months from June through to late October are when it receives the most rain. However, this is still a great time to visit, as the city is at its greenest and most vibrant during this time.

Explore the Province of Thua Thien-Hue

Hue is just one of the amazing cities in the province of Thua Thien-Hue. Be sure to check out the other cities in the area, such as Hoi An, Da Nang, and Phu Loc. All of these cities are accessible via bus or train from Hue and offer their own unique experiences. For more information, visit Tripfany’s website.

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip to Hue!

Hue is an amazing city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for culture, food, or unique experiences, it has it all. So don’t wait – start planning your dream trip to Hue today.