Walking Food Tour in Hue – Traditional Dishes & Hidden Gems

Hue , Vietnam

Walking Food Tour in Hue – Traditional Dishes & Hidden Gems

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About this experience

Discover the true taste of Hue on this immersive walking street food tour led by a passionate local guide. Wander through lively streets, hidden alleyways, and vibrant markets as you sample iconic dishes like Bánh Khoái, Bún Bò Huế, Bánh Bèo, Nem Lụi, and more. Each bite reveals the rich flavors and deep traditions of Hue’s royal culinary heritage. From sizzling pans to fragrant bowls, let the sights, sounds, and aromas of Hue’s food scene captivate your senses. End your journey with Vietnamese coffee and a stop at the night market (for evening tours). Join us and experience the heart of Hue through its unforgettable cuisine.

Available options

Walking Food Tour in Hue – Traditional Dishes & Hidden Gems

Pickup included

What's included

All street food list

English-speaking Vietnamese Food Enthusiast Guide

A bottle of water, Umbrella

Detailed itinerary

Your Hue street food adventure begins with a scenic ride across the iconic Truong Tien Bridge, a historic architectural symbol spanning the romantic Perfume River (Huong River). On the other side, you'll dive into the lively atmosphere of Dong Ba Market — Hue’s busiest and most colorful local market. Here, surrounded by vibrant stalls and the aroma of sizzling street food, you’ll get your first taste of local flavors while learning about daily life and culinary traditions from your expert guide.

Stop 2

Join this unforgettable Hue street food tour led by a friendly local expert, starting with a stroll across the iconic Truong Tien Bridge to the bustling Dong Ba Market, where you’ll discover fresh ingredients and sample local snacks. Then, dive into Hue’s rich culinary world as you visit handpicked eateries to taste iconic dishes like Bún Bò Huế, Bánh Bèo, Nem Lụi, Bánh Khoái, and more. End your evening with Vietnamese coffee, sweet chè, and seasonal fruits. This tour is the perfect way to experience Hue like a local through its unique flavors and food culture.

After savoring a variety of Hue’s best local dishes, we’ll cross back over the river and take a short city drive to soak in the evening atmosphere. Relax with a cup of authentic Vietnamese coffee while your guide shares stories about its cultural significance. For evening tours, you’ll also visit the Hue Night Walking Market, where you can sample even more street food and enjoy the vibrant local life. The tour ends with a comfortable drop-off at your hotel — full, happy, and immersed in the flavors of Hue.

What's not included

Personal Fees

Available languages

Guide guide

VI EN

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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