Hue City Tour - The Imperial City from Hoi An/ Da Nang

Pick up at hotel

Your adventure begins bright and early at 7 AM as our friendly, basic English-speaking driver picks you up from your hotel or homestay in Hoi An. Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive along Vietnam’s stunning central coast. Along the way, you'll pause at the famous Hai Van Pass — a winding mountain road offering breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and surrounding landscapes. It’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs and snap some unforgettable photos.

Please note: While your driver is happy to assist with transport, they are not a tour guide and speak limited English. Once you arrive in Hue, you'll be warmly welcomed by a knowledgeable local guide who will lead your private city tour.

At the foot of Hai Van Pass, you'll pause at Lang Co Beach—an ideal spot to admire the coastal beauty and snap some memorable photos.

Around 10 AM, you’ll arrive in the historic city of Hue, where your private city tour begins with the guidance of a knowledgeable local expert. Your first stop is a tranquil cruise along the Perfume River aboard a traditional dragon boat — the perfect way to soak in Hue’s peaceful charm.

Glide through the gentle waters toward Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s most sacred and iconic landmarks. Built in 1601, this beautiful seven-story pagoda holds deep spiritual significance and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding landscape. As you explore the temple grounds, your guide will share fascinating stories and ancient legends, including the famous "love curse" tied to the pagoda’s mysterious past.

It’s a magical and memorable start to your Hue adventure, where history, culture, and local lore come to life in a truly captivating setting.

After your visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, the journey continues into the heart of Hue’s imperial legacy. Step inside the vast and impressive Hue Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as the political and cultural center of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Wander through the Hue Royal City and into the mysterious Hue Forbidden City — the former residence and working space of 13 Nguyen emperors. As you explore the ancient halls, courtyards, and ornate gateways, your local guide will bring the past to life with captivating stories about the emperors who ruled here, their many concubines, and the lives of the loyal eunuchs who served in the royal court.

After a fascinating morning exploring enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

Savor the flavors of Hue with an array of regional specialties once reserved for royalty — from bún bò Huế (spicy beef noodle soup) to bánh bèo, nem lụi, and more. It’s a true culinary journey through the heart of central Vietnam.

After lunch, we’ll head to one of the most visually stunning landmarks in the country — the tomb of Khai Dinh, the 12th emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty. Unlike any other royal tomb in Vietnam, Khai Dinh Tomb is a remarkable fusion of Eastern and Western architecture, adorned with intricate mosaics, dragon motifs, and lavish interior designs. Often hailed as the most beautiful and extravagant of the Nguyen tombs — and possibly the world — it’s sure to leave you speechless (you might even say “WOW WOW” twice!).

As the tour winds down, we’ll say goodbye to our friendly local guide. Then, sit back and relax as your driver takes you on a scenic ride back to your hotel in Hoi An