Hue Royal Tombs & Dragon Boat: Private Half-Day Tour
Active
3h
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
Discover Hue’s royal heritage on a private half-day tour combining a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River with expert-guided visits to Thien Mu Pagoda, Minh Mang Tomb, and Khai Dinh Tomb. Travel in a comfortable private car, enjoy flexible departure times, and hear captivating stories of the Nguyen emperors from a local guide. This exclusive experience blends river scenery, UNESCO-listed architecture, and personalized service—ideal for travelers seeking authentic history without the crowds.
Available options
Guided Tour to 3 Tombs+ Pagoda
3 Tombs + Thien Mu pagoda: *Tu Duc Tomb, Minh Mang Tomb, Khai Dinh Tomb, Thien Mu Pagoda
Private Dragon Boat ride on Perfume River (one-way to Thien Mu)<br/>Private Tour: Private Tour (Private car & English-speaking guide)<br/>Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes<br/>Bottled water provided<br/>Thien Mu - 3 imperial tombs: Thien Mu Pagoda → Perfume River (Dragon Boat) → Minh Mang Tomb → Tu Duc Tomb → Khai Dinh Tomb<br/>Private Car<br/>Pickup included
Guided Tour: 2 Tombs + Pagoda
Private Tour: Thien Mu pagoda with boat trip + Minh Mang and Khai Dinh tomb<br/>Private half-day tour: Includes: Guide, entrance fees at Minh Mang and Khai Dinh tomb,Private car & boat.
<br/>Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes: Dragon Boat to pagoda: 30 mins + around 30mins at Thien Mu pagoda, 2 hours at Minh Mang and Khai Dinh tomb + Moving time!<br/>water bottles<br/>Private car<br/>Pickup included
Guided: Hidden Tomb Combo
Private tour: Entrance fees included for all tombs
Hotel pickup & drop-off (Hue city center)<br/>Duration: 4 hours 10 minutes<br/>Water bottle<br/>Hidden tombs combo: Thien Mu Pagoda to Hidden tombs (Gia Long and Dong Khanh)<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private boat
Bottled water
Entrance fee at the tombs
Air-conditioned vehicle
Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The driver and I will come to pick you up at your hotel. We go for the first attraction.
Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue's earliest pagodas. Constructed in 1601, it proudly sits atop a hill, overlooking the majestic Perfume River. Let's explore why this Pagoda is so important to the Nguyen Dynasty.
2
Stop 2
Visit Minh Mang Tomb, known for its harmonious architecture, serene lakes, and lush gardens. Discover the royal mausoleum of the Nguyen Dynasty’s second emperor and hear stories of his legacy. The site features traditional Vietnamese design, reflecting imperial philosophy.
3
Stop 3
Experience the striking blend of Eastern and Western styles at Khai Dinh Tomb. Marvel at intricate mosaics, colorful glass and porcelain inlays, and the dramatic stairways leading to the emperor’s ornate burial chamber. This site offers unique photo opportunities and rich historical context.
What's not included
Personal expenses
Gratitude for Tour guide and driver for good service
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Walking involved at tombs and pagoda – please wear comfortable shoes.
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
Instant confirmation
