Hue Walking Tour: Explore The Imperial City & Tour Guide
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This program is flexible for either morning or afternoon sessions, spanning from 2 to 2.5 hours. Your expert guide in historical matters will meet you at Cuu Than Cong in Cua Ngan, guiding you through ticket acquisition and commencing your walking tour of the Hue Imperial City. Explore the historical significance of the Nine Holy Cannons (Cửu Vị Thần Công),
1. The Noon Gate (South Gate or Ngọ Môn Huế)
2. The Flag Tower (Kỳ Đài Huế)
3. The Supreme Harmony Palace (Điện Thái Hòa)
4. The Nine Dynastic Urns (Cửu Đỉnh Huế)
5. The Mieu Temple (Thế Miếu Huế)
6. Dien Tho Palace (Cung Diên Thọ)
7. The Forbidden Purple City (Tử Cấm Thành Huế)
8. Thieu Phuong Garden (Vườn Thiệu Phương)
9. Thai Binh Pavilion (Thái Bình Lâu)
As your exploration of the Nguyen Dynasty's history concludes, I extend wishes for a joyful day ahead.
Available options
Hue Walking Tour: Explore The Imperial City & Tour Guide
Pickup included
What's included
English-speaking guide
Bottled water
Detailed itinerary
1
Our knowledgeable history tour guide will pick you up at Nine Holy Cannons in Cua Ngan, and then assist you in purchasing tickets and continuing your Hue Imperial City Walking Tour. The tour guide will be holding a sign waiting for you.
2
Stop 2
The Flag Tower: The structure was built in 1807 at a height of 30 meters but was damaged by artillery, then rebuilt in 1948 and has a height of 37 meters.
3
Stop 3
Noon Gate: This is the main gate of Hue Imperial built in 1833 and the entrance is only for the king. Above Noon Gate there is also outstanding architecture Ngu Phung Pavilion.
4
Ngu Phung Pavilion (Lầu Ngũ Phụng) has a frame structure made entirely of ironwood with 100 pillars and is located above Ngo Mon Gate.
5
Thai Hoa Palace: The most important palace in the Hue Imperial is where the throne is located, a symbol of the power of the Nguyen Dynasty.
6
Duyet Thi Duong Royal Theater: This is an ancient theater located inside Hue Imperial, this place has royal architecture. Currently, there are still performances with royal acts.
7
Kien Trung Palace: This place was built in 1923 with a combination of Asian and European architecture but completely collapsed in 1947. In 2019, it was rebuilt, and will not be completed until 2024.
8
Dien Tho Palace: This is a private place for the king's mother, built-in 1804. This is one of the buildings inside Hue Imperial that remained intact during the war.
9
Thieu Phuong Garden: A garden with a total area of about 8,000 square meters, surrounded by gardens and brick walls.
10
Stop 10
The Nine Dynastic Urns: This is one of the unique bronze works during the reign of King Minh Mang. On these bronze urns, images of Vietnam at that time were depicted and there were a total of 162 images.
11
Hien Lam Pavilion: This place was built in 1821 to 1822, and is a 3-storey building with royal architecture. Considered as a memorial and remembering the merits of the Nguyen Kings.
12
The To Mieu (often called The Mieu) is a general shrine to the kings of the Nguyen Dynasty. The temple is located in the southwest corner of the Imperial Citadel.
13
The three-story wooden structure was built on a rectangular Bat Trang brick-tiled block. There are two stone staircases leading to the pavilion. Each of them has 9 steps. The stair holders are decorated with dragon patterns
What's not included
Personal expenses
Entrance ticket: Imperial City 200.000 VND/ 1 person
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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