Hue Vietnam Travel Guide
Welcome to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital and one of the country’s most culturally rich cities. Nestled along the Perfume River, Hue is a living museum of Vietnam’s royal history, known for its grand Citadel, majestic royal tombs, and serene pagodas.
As the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945, Hue offers a unique blend of historical grandeur, spiritual atmosphere, and poetic beauty. Whether you’re exploring the UNESCO-listed Imperial City, cruising the Perfume River, or visiting the elaborate royal tombs, Hue delivers a deeply immersive and elegant experience unlike anywhere else in Vietnam.
Best Vietnam Itineraries
Transport
How to Get to & Around Hue
Best ways to reach Hue and explore the Imperial City, royal tombs & Perfume River
By Air
Phu Bai International Airport (HUI)
Hanoi → Hue: ~1 hour 15 min
Ho Chi Minh City → Hue: ~1 hour 30 min
Many daily flights
By Train
Hanoi → Hue: 10–12 hours overnight
Ho Chi Minh City → Hue: 12–14 hours
Scenic coastal route, very popular
By Bus
Hanoi → Hue: 8–10 hours
Ho Chi Minh City → Hue: 12–14 hours
Comfortable sleeper buses available
Local Transport
Cyclo (traditional rickshaw) – very popular
Motorbike / Taxi
Boat tours on Perfume River
Top Things To See & Experiences In Vietnam
Top Attractions in Hue
4 must-visit places that define Vietnam’s ancient imperial capital
Imperial City & Citadel
UNESCO World Heritage Site and former royal palace.
Must-See:
• Grand palaces and throne hall
• Forbidden Purple City
• Beautiful gardens and architecture
Thien Mu Pagoda
Iconic 7-storey pagoda overlooking the Perfume River.
Must-See:
• Stunning riverside location
• Historic Buddhist temple
• Peaceful and photogenic
Royal Tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty
Elaborate mausoleums of former emperors.
Must-See:
• Tomb of Khai Dinh (most ornate)
• Tomb of Tu Duc & Minh Mang
• Beautiful gardens and architecture
Perfume River (Song Huong)
Scenic river flowing through Hue.
Must-See:
• Sunset boat cruises
• Views of Thien Mu Pagoda
• Traditional dragon boat rides
