Full-Day Hue City Private Guided Cultural Tour with Boat Trip

Hue , Vietnam

Full-Day Hue City Private Guided Cultural Tour with Boat Trip

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About this experience

PROGRAM :

8am:Our tour guide and driver pick you up at your hotel in Hue City

First stop is to Visit the Citadel which is Hue’s prime attraction, and contains the Imperial City, the Forbidden Purple City and the Emperor’s Private Residence.Visit the former royal capital of Hue from 1802 to 1945 (the last feudal system of Viet Nam with Nguyen Dynasty),
Second Stop is Thien Mu Pagoda, which is considered by many as the unofficial symbol of Hue.Then, we will take one of the local Dragon Boats and cruise up the Perfume River to the Pagoda.

Lunch at Local Restaurant.

Third Stop is Khai Dinh Tomb.this tomb is unique as it is a blend of Western and Eastern architecture.It was built from 1920 to 1931.

Last Stop is Minh Mang Tomb. He was the second emperor of the Nguyễn dynasty of Vietnam, reigning from 14 February 1820 until his death, on 20 January 1841.
Minh Mang’s tomb is in An Bang village, on the west bank of the Perfume River, 12km from Hue.
Finish the Tour & Send you back hotel

Available options

Full-Day Hue City Private Guided Cultural Tour with Boat Trip

Pickup included

What's included

Boat Trip on Perfume River

Bottled water

Private Modern Vehicle with Safe Driver

English Speaking Tourguide

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Entrance Tickets

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The citadel was oriented to face the Huong River (Perfume River) to the southeast. The entire complex was the seat of power until the imposition of the French protectorate in the 1880s. Thereafter it existed mostly to carry on symbolic traditions until the monarchy was ousted in 1945. At the time, the Purple Forbidden City had many buildings and hundreds of rooms. Once vacated it suffered from neglect, termite ravages, and inclement weather including a number of cyclones. Nonetheless the Imperial City was an impressive sight. Most destructive were man-made crises as evidenced in the bullet holes still visible from the military conflicts of the 20th century.

Out of 160 buildings only 10 major sites remain, such as the Thái Hòa and Cần Thanh temples, Thế Miếu, and Hiển Lâm Các. The city was made a UNESCO site in 1993. The buildings that still remain are being restored and preserved, so some areas may not be available to visit.

Stop 2

Thien Mu Pagoda which is considered by many as the unofficial symbol of Hue. To reach the Pagoda, we will take one of the local Dragon Boats and cruise up the Perfume River to the Pagoda.

Thien Mu is an active Buddhist monastery with origins dating back to 1601. One of its most poignant displays is a car belonging to a former monk who in 1963 drove to Saigon and set himself alight to protest against the South Vietnamese regime and its cruel treatment of Buddhist monks and followers.

Stop 3

30 Minute Boat ride on Perfume River

Stop 4

Khai Dinh Tomb. There are seven significant imperial tombs along the Perfume River and surrounding countryside but this tomb is unique as it is a blend of Western and Eastern architecture.It was built for Khải Định, the twelfth Emperor of the Nguyễn dynasty. It was built from 1920 to 1931 taking 11 years to complete. It is located on a steep hill outside of the capital city of Huế.

Stop 5

Minh Mạng was the second emperor of the Nguyễn dynasty of Vietnam, reigning from 14 February 1820 until his death, on 20 January 1841.

This majestic tomb is renowned for its architecture and sublime forest setting. The tomb was planned during Minh Mang’s reign (1820–40) but built by his successor, Thieu Tri.

Minh Mang’s tomb is in An Bang village, on the west bank of the Perfume River, 12km from Hue.

The Honour Courtyard is reached via three gates on the eastern side of the wall. Three granite staircases lead from the courtyard to the square Stele Pavilion (Dinh Vuong).

Sung An Temple, which is dedicated to Minh Mang and his empress, is reached via three terraces and the rebuilt Hien Duc Gate. On the other side of the temple, three stone bridges span Trung Minh Ho (Lake of Impeccable Clarity). The central bridge was for the emperor’s use only. Minh Lau Pavilion (Pavilion of Light) stands on the top of three superimposed terraces that represent the ‘three powers’: the heavens, the earth and water. To the left is the Fresh Air Pavilion, to the right, the Angling Pavilion.

From a stone bridge across crescent-shaped Tan Nguyet Lake (Lake of the New Moon), a monumental staircase with dragon banisters leads to Minh Mang’s sepulchre. The gate to the tomb is opened only once a year on the anniversary of the emperor’s death.

What's not included

Drinks & Personal Expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Hue

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is renowned for its historic monuments, royal tombs, and beautiful architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam's imperial past with its well-preserved citadel, palaces, and temples.

Top Attractions

Imperial City

The Imperial City is a walled fortress and palace in the former capital of Vietnam. It was the seat of Nguyen Dynasty emperors and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate (around 150,000 VND for entrance)

Thien Mu Pagoda

Thien Mu Pagoda is an iconic Buddhist pagoda overlooking the Perfume River. It is one of the most beautiful and historic pagodas in Vietnam.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Tomb of Khai Dinh

The Tomb of Khai Dinh is the final resting place of Emperor Khai Dinh, the twelfth emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty. It is known for its unique blend of Vietnamese and European architecture.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (around 100,000 VND for entrance)

Dong Ba Market

Dong Ba Market is the largest and oldest market in Hue, offering a wide variety of local products, including food, textiles, and souvenirs.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for items

Perfume River

The Perfume River is a scenic river that flows through Hue, known for its beautiful views and cultural significance. It is a popular spot for boat tours and leisurely walks along the riverbank.

Nature Varies by activity Low to moderate (boat tours around 100,000 VND)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bun Bo Hue

A spicy beef noodle soup with a rich, flavorful broth made from pork, beef, and lemongrass. It is typically served with rice vermicelli, slices of beef, and pork, and various herbs and vegetables.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef and pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Banh Khoai

A crispy, savory pancake made from rice flour, turmeric, and water. It is filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, and served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Snack/Dinner Contains shrimp and pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Nem Lui

Grilled minced pork skewers wrapped in fresh herbs and served with a peanut hoisin sauce. The pork is marinated in a mixture of fish sauce, garlic, and lemongrass before being grilled.

Snack/Appetizer Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Banh Beo

Steamed rice cakes topped with shrimp, scallions, and crispy pork rinds. They are served in small dishes and eaten with a small spoon, accompanied by a fish sauce-based dipping sauce.

Snack/Appetizer Contains shrimp and pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Bach Ma National Park Boat tours on the Perfume River Water activities at Lang Co Beach Sunbathing and swimming at Lang Co Beach Visiting spas and wellness centers in Hue Exploring the Imperial City and its historical sites Visiting local markets and shopping streets Attending traditional performances and festivals

Best Time to Visit

February to August

The best time to visit Hue is during the dry season when the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

20°C to 33°C 68°F to 91°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hue is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it is important to take standard precautions to protect yourself and your belongings, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding isolated areas, and keeping valuables secure.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use reputable taxi companies or app-based services, such as Grab or Mai Linh
• Bargain for better prices and be cautious when using ATMs or making purchases with credit cards

Getting there

By air

Phu Bai International Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Hue Railway Station

By bus

Hue Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are affordable and convenient for getting around Hue. The system includes routes to major tourist sites like the Imperial City and Thien Mu Pagoda.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Mai Linh

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Hue University Area An Cuu Island

Day trips

Tam Giang Lagoon

15 km from Hue • Half day to full day

Tam Giang Lagoon is a scenic and tranquil destination located just a short drive from Hue. It is the largest lagoon in Southeast Asia, offering beautiful views, peaceful boat rides, and a variety of water activities.

Vinh Moc Tunnels

25 km from Hue • Half day

The Vinh Moc Tunnels are a network of underground tunnels located near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in central Vietnam. They were used by local residents during the Vietnam War to escape the bombing and shelling by American forces.

Bach Ma National Park

40 km from Hue • Full day

Bach Ma National Park is a stunning and biodiverse destination located just a short drive from Hue. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including rare and endangered species, as well as beautiful waterfalls, lakes, and hiking trails.

Festivals

Hue Festival • Biennial, typically held in April or May Hue Traditional Boat Racing Festival • Annually, typically held in May or June Hue Poetry Festival • Annually, typically held in August

Pro tips

Visit the Imperial City early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat
Try the local street food, such as bun bo Hue and banh khoai, for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
Take a boat tour on the Perfume River for a unique and scenic perspective of the city
Hire a local guide or join a tour to learn more about the history and culture of Hue and the Nguyen Dynasty
Explore the local markets, such as Dong Ba Market, for a glimpse into the daily life and culture of the city