Hue Imperial Citadel Walking Tour Explore Vietnam's History

Hue , Vietnam

Hue Imperial Citadel Walking Tour Explore Vietnam's History

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About this experience

Hue Imperial Citadel walking tour will take you to visit the most prominent landmark of Hue as well as all of Vietnam: Hue Imperial Citadel. This site is a part of the complex of Hue Monuments, imbued with culture, history and architecture of the Nguyen Dynasty, recognized by UNESCO as a a World Heritage Site in 1993.

Hue Imperial Citadel was founded in 1804 by the Emperor Gia Long for the royal family and completed in 1832 during the reign of Emperor Ming Mang. Join our walking tour to admire the beauty of the Imperial City of Hue, its architecture as well as learn more about the lives of Nguyen Emperors.

Available options

Hue Imperial Citadel Walking Tour Explore Vietnam's History

What's included

Knowledgeable English speaking guide

Bottled drinking Water

Detailed itinerary

We will walk to Thuong Tu Entrance and here you will learn about the amazing life story of Gia Long Emperor. Go into The Citadel, you will see Nine Holy Cannons, Phoenix Tower and the Flag Tower.

Stop 2

Get in the Noon Gate and walk about 330 feet across Trung Dao Bridge, you will arrive at Supreme Harmony Palace (Thai Hoa Palace). Visit the Place and learn about its royal art and architecture. Furthermore, you have a chance to learn about the Nguyen Emperor’s ruling system.
In Hue Forbidden City, you will know more about the Emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty and their family’s lives in the Hue Forbidden City. Visit The To Temple, Hien Lam Cac, Cuu Dinh and listen to extra-ordinary stories of each Nguyen Emperors.

With the guide, you will also explore the charming Queen’s Mother Residences, Dien Tho Palace and Truong Sanh Place.

Stop 4

After that, you will stop at the Co Ha Royal Garden and Duyet Thi Duong Royal Theater. Finally, your Hue Imperial City walking tour will finish at the Museum of Antiquities. The glory of Nguyen Dynasty through their valuable treasures will be told at this site.

What's not included

Entrance Fee The Citadel

Personal Expense and Tip

Available languages

Guide guide

VI EN

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

Meeting point

Our guide will meet you at the meeting point: Toa Kham Boat Station, 45 Le Loi street, Hue city. Or at your hotel if it is on the way to the Imperial Citadel. Then we will start the Hue Imperial walking tour.

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