Hue is a city located in central Vietnam, close to the South China Sea. It was the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty and remains an important cultural center. Known for its beautiful architecture, romantic gardens, unique cuisine, and vibrant culture, Hue is a must-see destination when visiting Vietnam. Whether you’re a history buff or an adventurous traveler, read on to find out why Hue is a must-visit destination.

History of Hue

Hue was the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945), and the first emperor of the dynasty, Gia Long, chose to establish the city as the capital in 1802. The Nguyen Dynasty is known for leaving a rich cultural legacy in the city, and much of the architecture and sights in Hue still reflects the dynasty’s influence.

In the late 1880s, Hue was briefly occupied by the French, who set up an administration center. Through the 20th century, the city went through different political changes but still held true to its historical roots and culture.

Today, Hue is still an important cultural center for the country and is known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful architecture.

Top 7 Things to See in Hue

Hue is full of amazing sights and activities to explore. Here are the top 7 things to do in Hue:

  • Visit the Citadel – The Citadel of Hue was the home of the Nguyen Dynasty and is now a World Heritage Site. The iconic structure is full of moats, walls, and gates, and visitors can explore its huge grounds.
  • Explore the Thien Mu Pagoda – The Thien Mu Pagoda is an iconic symbol of Hue, and a visit to the temple is a must-do. The temple is located on a riverbank and is known for its inspiring architecture and incredible views of the city.
  • Discover the Royal Tombs – The tombs of the emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty are a must-see in Hue. Visitors can explore the graves of the emperors and learn more about the city’s rich history.
  • Take a Boat Tour – The best way to explore the city and its sights is by taking a boat tour along the Perfume River. The tours offer beautiful views of the city, so be sure to bring a camera!
  • Shop at Dong Ba Market – Dong Ba Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local goods. The vibrant market is filled with delicious food, local crafts, and souvenirs.
  • Visit Duyet Thi Duong – Duyet Thi Duong is the royal theater of the Nguyen Dynasty and is an important cultural landmark in the city. Visitors can learn more about the theater’s history and appreciate its unique architecture.
  • Explore the Imperial City – The Imperial City is a huge complex of ruins and walls that are left over from the Nguyen Dynasty. The impressive ruins are a must-see for any visitor to Hue.

Food Culture in Hue

Hue is known for its unique food culture and has some of the best cuisine in Vietnam. The city is home to a variety of special dishes, including bun bo hue, a spicy noodle soup; banh beo, a savory steamed cake; and banh khoai, a fried savory pancake.

The city is also known for its street food, and visitors can find a variety of delicacies while exploring the streets of Hue. One must-try is banh loc, a savory tapioca dumpling.

Unique Things About Hue

Hue is full of unique sights and things to do, but here are a few lesser-known things that many tourists don’t know about.

Visit the Flag Tower – The Flag Tower of Hue is an ancient structure that was built during the Nguyen Dynasty. The structure is located in the Citadel and is still standing tall today. Visitors can climb the tower and get a great view of the city.

Explore the Conical Hat Village – Hue is home to a conical hat village, where visitors can learn about the traditional craft of making conical hats. The village is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Hue.

Visit the Ung Prince Pagoda – The Ung Prince Pagoda is a unique temple located on the outskirts of the city. The temple is dedicated to a prince who died in battle and is known for its unique architecture.

Getting to Hue

Hue is located in central Vietnam, close to the South China Sea. The closest airport is Phu Bai Airport, which is located about 15 km from the city. Visitors can also reach Hue by train or bus.

The city is also near the cities of Quang Tri, Quang Ngai, and Thua Thien Hue, which can all be easily reached by public transportation or car.

Explore More with Tripfany

Hue is an amazing destination, and there is plenty more to explore. Through Tripfany, you can explore nearby cities like Quang Tri, Quang Ngai, and Thua Thien Hue and make your trip to Hue even more memorable.

Let Us Help You with Your Itinerary

We hope this travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Hue. If you need help with your travel itinerary or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.