Imperial City and Royal Tombs Group Tour with Lunch and Boat

Hue , Vietnam

Imperial City and Royal Tombs Group Tour with Lunch and Boat

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About this experience

Explore the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a guide

Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, the most sacred temple in Central Vietnam

Enjoy a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River and a traditional lunch

Visit the Tu Duc tomb to admire the architecture and picturesque landscape

Spend time breathing the fresh air and enjoying the view of the Perfume River by the dreamy pine hill

Make a stop at Khai Dinh Tomb, a blend of East and West architecture

Available options

Full Tour with Entry Ticket

Pickup included

What's included

1 bottled water/person

Entrance fee

Lunch

Air-conditioned vehicle

Dragon boat

English speaking tour guide

Travel Insurance

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Start your day with the Imperial City. Built in 1802 by the first king of Vietnam’s last feudal dynasty, the citadel was the living and working place of 13 Nguyen Dynasty kings. As you walk through the majestic gates, you’ll explore the Royal City, the Forbidden Purple City, and various areas that once served as the political and cultural heart of the Nguyen court. The intricate carvings, golden roofs, and dragon-shaped ornaments bring you back to the grandeur of imperial Vietnam.

Visit the Ancient Hue Garden House and explore the unique architecture and feng shui. Delve into the historical value of the residence and workplace of the Nguyen Dynasty’s officials.

Stop 3

Proceed to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the most sacred ancient pagoda in Central Vietnam. Explore the beautiful architectural works and listen to the history and mystical spiritual stories of the pagoda.

Stop 4

After the morning tour, board a dragon boat and sail down the Perfume River. Be immersed in the charming scenery and indulge in the traditional lunch of Hue.

After lunch, continue to the Thuy Xuan Conical Hat and Incense Village. Witness the radiant beauty of meticulously and skillfully displayed incense bundles lining both sides of the streets.

Stop 6

Next, visit the Tu Duc Tomb, renowned as one of the most beautiful works of the Nguyen Dynasty. With its refined architecture and picturesque landscape, the tomb was constructed to resonate with the romantic, dreamy yet profound and sagacious soul of this king.

Visit Vong Canh Hill, a favored spot for the Nguyen Kings to rest and enjoy the view. Known for its perfect beauty combining the mountains and rivers of romantic Hue, it is a great destination for relaxing.

Continue to the Khai Dinh Tomb, situated on Chau Chu mountain. Although the tomb is smaller in size compared to the tombs of other kings, it is meticulously crafted, blending the exquisite architecture and culture of both East and West.

What's not included

Personal expense

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Customers will be provided the color and number plate of the bus on Whatsapp message before pick-up time.

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