Hue Food Tour 5 Delicious Stops for Culinary Exploration

Hue , Vietnam

Hue Food Tour 5 Delicious Stops for Culinary Exploration

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About this experience

Delve into Hue's culinary heritage with a half-day food tour featuring five unique stops. Sample royal savory cakes like Bánh Bèo and Bánh Nậm, savor fresh rice noodle soups such as Bún Bò Huế, and indulge in delightful desserts like Chè. This tour offers an authentic taste of Hue’s renowned street food, guided by local experts who share insights into each dish's significance and preparation. Perfect for food enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, this tour guarantees a flavorful journey through the heart of Hue's gastronomy.

- Half-day culinary adventure exploring five diverse food stops
- Taste royal savory cakes, rice noodle soups, and local desserts
- Learn from knowledgeable guides about Hue's rich food culture
- Ideal for food lovers and those seeking local experiences

Available options

Hue Food Tour 5 Delicious Stops for Culinary Exploration

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Guide

Coffee and/or Tea

Meals

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Experience the shimmering iconic riverbank, with views of dragon boats and fishing boats gliding on the water. Then head to the third stop to enjoy a steaming bowl of Bún Bò Huế - Hue’s signature noodle soup, rich with beef broth, lemongrass aroma, tender slices of beef, and thick round noodles.

Take a short walk, soak up the vibrant nightlife where lots of tourists hang out, and arrive at the second stop: you will enjoy Com hen, which is a rice dish with rural ingredients like baby mussels and fresh herbs combined through a sophisticated process - a humble yet flavourful local favourite.

The local market is always vibrant and lively, a place where the city’s culture truly comes to life. It sits close to Hue’s hidden corners and narrow alleys, making it the perfect starting point to explore the city.

After Bún Bò Huế, we’ll take you to try Vietnam’s most unique bread – the famous Bánh Mì. This Vietnamese sandwich may sound like an unusual mix, but the crispy baguette packed with savoury meats, fresh herbs, and pickled vegetables makes it unforgettable. A fresh Bánh Mì is truly one of Vietnam’s must-try dishes.

Finally, end your journey with a sweet and colorful bowl of Chè – a delightful mix of beans and fruits, blended into a refreshing dessert. Along the way, your guide will share stories and food traditions, giving you a true taste of Hue’s culture and daily life. This isn’t just a food tour – it’s a journey into the heart of the city.

With a local guide, you’ll discover Hue through its tastiest dishes. You will enjoy 5 traditional cakes
First of all, you will try the royal savory cakes including: Bèo, Nậm, Lọc, Ram Ít and Nem Lụi.
• Bánh Bèo – small steamed rice cakes with shrimp and crispy pork.
• Bánh Nậm – flat rice dumplings wrapped in banana leaves.
• Bánh Lọc – chewy tapioca dumplings with shrimp and pork.
• Ram Ít – sticky rice dumpling on a crunchy fried base.
• Nem Lụi – grilled minced pork on lemongrass, served with herbs and dipping sauce.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

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