Hue: Imperial City Walk, Motorbike Tour & Private Car Options
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Hue: Imperial City Walk, Motorbike Tour & Private Car Options

Active
(694 reviews)
2h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Customize Your Sightseeing Tour or Transfer Trip between Hue - Danang - Hoi An
Take a Walking Tour in Imperial Citadel & Ruined Forbidden City of Hue Vietnam
Riding on the Back of the Motorbike with Driver to Explore the Countryside of Hue
Learning about Real Life of the Emperors, Their Wives - Concubines - Eunuchs
Learning about history and culture of Hue city and Vietnam with a local expert
Cruising on Perfume River with Traditional Dragon Boat (for Boat Option Only)

Available options

Motorbike with Guide & Driver

To Countryside, Heritage Sites: Thanh Toan Bridge, Vong Canh Hill, Tiger Arena, Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial City, Up to 2 Tombs of Minh Mang/Khai Dinh/Tu Duc.<br/>Duration: 7 hours: But time is flexible and depends on number of sites you like to visit and how much time you like to spend in each stop.<br/>Scooter with Driver & Helmet: We have scooter with helmet. Tour guide and driver will take you on tour, you just need to seat behind and enjoy your time.<br/>Entry Tickets are not included: You need to pay 200k/p/Citadel, 150k/p/Tomb, Free Entry for Thanh Toan Covered Bridge/Thien Mu Pagoda/Vong Canh Hills.<br/>Pickup included

Hue to/from Phong Nha Transfer

with English Speaking Driver: One way transfer by Private Car, and trip starts either from Phong Nha, Dong Hoi or Hue City<br/>Duration: 4 hours: We have direct transfer, trip takes about 3 hours driving Hue to/from Dong Hoi, or 4 hours to/from Phong Nha National Park.<br/>Private Car with 4 or 7 Seat: Pick-up/drop-off included in city center of Hue, Dong Hoi or Phong Nha. There will be surchage if pick-up outside of center.<br/>Trip Notes: Please confirm if you would like to visit DMZ Area (Hien Luong Bridge, Ben Hai River, Vinh Moc Tunnels), with extra charge.<br/>Pickup included

Private Car to Visit 5 Places

With English Speaking Driver: for communication and provide some information about history and local culture (but not like tour guide with license).<br/>Sightseeing Places to visit: You ll visit 5 best tourist spots:
1. Hue Imperial City
2. Thien Mu Pagoda
3. Minh Mang Tomb
4. Tu Duc Tomb
5. Khai Dinh Tomb<br/>Duration: 8 hours: but flexible depending on the sites & how long you like to spend in each place, as we do not limit your time of sightseeing.<br/>Tour Guide and Entry Fee: Not included, 200K/pax to Imperial City, 150k/tomb or Combo Ticket is recommended if you visit Citadel with 2 or 3 tombs.<br/>Pick-up and Drop-off: included if you are in city center/Hue train station. Please provide details of location/train number for convenience.<br/>Trip Inclusions: Private Car with English speaking driver, Road Tolls, Parking Fees. Tour guide is not included (available with surcharge).<br/>Pickup included

Private Car to Visit 2 Places

With English Speaking Driver: for communication and provide some information about history and local culture (but not like tour guide with license).<br/>Sightseeing Places to visit: You can choose any 2 places from:
1. Hue Imperial City
2. Thien Mu Pagoda
3. Minh Mang Tomb
4. Tu Duc Tomb
5. Khai Dinh Tomb<br/>Duration: 3 hours: but flexible depending on the sites & how long you like to spend in each place, as we do not limit your time of sightseeing.<br/>Tour Guide and Entry Fee: Not included, 200K/pax to Imperial City, 150k/tomb or Combo Ticket is recommended if you also visit 2 or 3 more royal tombs.<br/>Pick-up and Drop-off: included if you are in city center/Hue train station. Please provide details of location/train number for convenience.<br/>Trip Inclusions: Private Car with English speaking driver, Road Tolls, Parking Fees. Tour guide is not included (available with surcharge).<br/>Pickup included

Walking Tour with Dragon Boat

Small Group - Max 8 People: Walk 2.5 hours in Imperial City with tour guide, Dragon Boat on Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda, then transfer back to City.<br/>Duration: 4 hours: Walk 2.5 hours in Imperial City with tour guide, then 25 minutes Dragon Boat on Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda.<br/>Entry Fee is not included: 200/pax, to save the waiting time at the ticket office, please prepare cash & our guide can help to buy for the whole group.<br/>Pick-up not included: our guide 'll meet you at 4 cannons of Ngan Gate. Drop-off is included: our driver will drop you to hotel in city center only<br/>Tour Inclusions: English speaking guide for Imperial City Walking Tour, Dragon Boat on Perfume River, Transfer Pagoda back to City Center.

Hue - Hoi An via Hai Van Pass

with English Speaking Driver: One way transfer by Private Car with sightseeing stops, and trip starts either from Hoi An or Hue City<br/>Duration: 5 hours: Trip includes sightseeing stops in Lap An Lagoon, Lang Co Beach, Hai Van Pass and Marble Mountains (not include entry fee).<br/>Private Car with 4 or 7 Seat: Pick-up/drop-off included in Phu Bai Airport/Train Station of Hue, hotels in city center of Hue or Hoi An.<br/>Trip Notes: Please confirm if you like to visit An Bang Cemetery, Ba Na Hills, Monkey Mountain and My Son Sanctuary with extra charge.<br/>Pickup included

Walking Tour in Imperial City

Small Group of 8 with Guide: 2.5 Hours Walking in Imperial Citadel, Forbidden City with tour guide to learn about Hue History & Vietnamese Royal Culture.<br/>Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes: we have about 2.5 hours walking with tour guide. But you can stay longer after our tour finish to enjoy more of Imperial City<br/>Entry Fee is not included: 200/pax, to save the waiting time at the ticket office, please prepare cash & our guide can help to buy for the whole group.<br/>Pick-up and Drop-off: not include, our guide 'll meet you at 4 cannons of Ngan Gate (Cửa Ngăn). Please note that, there are 5 cannons on other side<br/>Tour Inclusions: Friendly and Informative English speaking tour guide, Pick-up at 4 Cannons of the Ngan Gate (Cửa Ngăn).

Hue - Da Nang via Hai Van Pass

with English Speaking Driver: One way transfer by private car with sightseeing stops, and trip starts either from Da Nang or Hue City<br/>Duration: 3 hours: Trip by Private Car includes sightseeing stops in Lap An Lagoon, Lang Co Beach, and Hai Van Pass.<br/>Private Car with 4 or 7 Seat: Pick-up/drop-off included in Airports/Train Stations or hotels in city center of Hue and Da Nang.<br/>Trip Notes: Please confirm if you like to visit An Bang Cemetery, Ba Na Hills, Monkey Mountain and My Son Sanctuary with extra charge.<br/>Pickup included

Private Car to Visit 3 Places

With English Speaking Driver: for communication and provide some information about history and local culture (but not like tour guide with license).<br/>Sightseeing Places to visit: You can choose any 3 places from:
1. Hue Imperial City
2. Thien Mu Pagoda
3. Minh Mang Tomb
4. Tu Duc Tomb
5. Khai Dinh Tomb<br/>Duration: 4 hours: but flexible depending on the sites & how long you like to spend in each place, as we do not limit your time of sightseeing.<br/>Tour Guide and Entry Fee: Not included, 200K/pax to Imperial City, 150k/tomb or Combo Ticket is recommended if you visit Citadel with 2 or 3 tombs.<br/>Pick-up and Drop-off: included if you are in city center/Hue train station. Please provide details of location/train number for convenience.<br/>Trip Inclusions: Private Car with English speaking driver, Road Tolls, Parking Fees. Tour guide is not included (available with surcharge).<br/>Pickup included

Hue Private Airport Transfer

By 4 - 7 - 16 Seat Car: Private Transfer Phu Bai Airport to/from Hotels in City Center by Private Car. Please inform us details of your flight number<br/>Duration: 30 minutes: It usually takes about 30 minutes to travel between Phu Bai Airport to/from Hue city center by car if without traffic jam.<br/>Pick-up and Drop-off: included in city center hotel/Hue train station. Please provide details of location/train /flight numbers for convenience.<br/>Trip Inclusions: Private Car/Van with experienced driver, Road Tolls, Parking Fees. Tour guide is not included (available with surcharge).<br/>Pickup included

Private Car to Visit 4 Places

With English Speaking Driver: for communication and provide some information about history and local culture (but not like tour guide with license).<br/>Sightseeing Places to visit: You can choose any 4 places from:
1. Hue Imperial City
2. Thien Mu Pagoda
3. Minh Mang Tomb
4. Tu Duc Tomb
5. Khai Dinh Tomb<br/>Duration: 5 hours: but flexible depending on the sites & how long you like to spend in each place, as we do not limit your time of sightseeing.<br/>Tour Guide and Entry Fee: Not included, 200K/pax to Imperial City, 150k/tomb or Combo Ticket is recommended if you visit Citadel with 2 or 3 tombs.<br/>Pick-up and Drop-off: included if you are in city center/Hue train station. Please provide details of location/train number for convenience.<br/>Trip Inclusions: Private Car with English speaking driver, Road Tolls, Parking Fees. Tour guide is not included (available with surcharge).<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Please check in each option you choose, as we have some different options with different inclusions.

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

This was living area for 13 Emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1804 to 1945 when Hue was the Capital of Vietnam.

2
Stop 2

Hue Imperial Citadel is the Home of Vietnam's last Royal Dynasty, and the complex of the monument is the first UNESCO Heritage Site in Vietnam. In 1802, after Nguyen Phuc Anh founded the Nguyen Dynasty. He became the first King with tittle Gia Long, and decided Hue to become the Capital for the whole Country. In 1804, King Gia Long decided to build Imperial Citadel in the present area.

3
Stop 3

Thien Mu Pagoda (Temple of the Celestial Lady, or Linh Mu Pagoda - Chùa Thiên Mụ) was built in 1601 by the Founder of the Nguyen Family in Central Vietnam. Before the time of setting up Thien Mu Pagoda, there was a pagoda named Thien Mo or Thien Mau on the hill of Ha Khe, which is a Cham temple. Thien Mu Pagoda is a famous religion spot in Hue, and was built there because of a dream of local people.

4
Stop 4

4.5
(2,648)
Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang
Tomb built from 1840 to 1843 by Son of Minh Mang - King Thieu Tri. Minh Mang Tomb, whose literal name is Hieu Lang, built by Emperor Thieu Tri of the Nguyen Dynasty, is located on Cam Ke mountain, An Bang hamlet, Huong Tho commune, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue province, near Bang junction. Lang is the confluence of two streams, Huu Trach and Ta Trach, forming the Perfume River, 12 km from the center of Hue city. Minh Mang Mausoleum was built from 1840 to 1843, when it was completed, it mobilized up to ten thousand workers and soldiers.

5
Stop 5

Tu Duc started his tomb long before die in 1883. The major area of the tomb were built from 1864 to 1867, along with later temple buildings that used as a royal palace for Tu Duc and his wives when he was still alive. Construction of the tomb needed too much labor and heavy tax that there was an abortive coup against Tu Duc in 1866.

6
Stop 6

Built from 1920 to 1931, and this is only one Tomb of the Nguyen's Emperors built with blended architecture of Vietnamese, Indian and Western.

7
Stop 7

Bridge built in 1776 by Mrs Tran Thi Dao. It is now one of only 4 Covered Bridge in Vietnam. Thanh Toan Covered Bridge (Also known as Hue Japanese Covered Bridge) is a Wooden Arch Bridge with a tile roof crossing a ditch, located in Thanh Thuy Chanh village, Thuy Thanh commune, Huong Thuy town, Thua Thien - Hue province. It is about 8 km southeast of Hue city. This wooden bridge is classified as rare and has the highest artistic value among the ancient bridges in Vietnam.

8

Vong Canh Hill used to be the place where the Nguyen kings chose to take a rest and sightseeing. Surrounding the hill is a system of tombs of Nguyen kings such as: Dong Khanh tomb, Tu Duc tomb, Thieu Tri tomb, Xuong Tho tomb, Ba Cung palace,... This was also an army base of US Army during Vietnam War, and there are still some army bunkers left here.

9

The pagoda, also known as the “Root Temple” of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, is where he returned to live after long years of teaching Buddhism to bring his beliefs of mindfulness, global ethics and peace around the world. With its cultural and historical values, Tu Hieu is such a great pagoda Hue Vietnam to discover on your spiritual journey in this S-shaped country.

10

Surrounded by the imposing Bach Ma Mountain and the magnificent Lang Co Bay, Lap An Lagoon is widely regarded as the most impressive natural landscape in the poetic city of Hue. Coming here, you can have a chance to admire breathtaking scenery, breathe in fresh air, and savor delectable dishes made with regional aquatic specialties.

11

Lang Co beach is a part of Lang Co bay - one of the most beautiful bays on the face of the earth. It's a place that combines mountains, rivers, seas, and lagoons. At present, it still remains on top of the wish list of many travelers. Lang Co beach is perfect place for lunch with really nice view and fresh seafood

12

Tiger Elephant Arena (Vietnamese: Hổ Quyền) is a relic in the ancient ruins of Hue, located in Truong Da hamlet, Thuy Bieu ward, Hue city. This place was a tiger breeding case and a unique arena that can not be found anywhere in the world. During the Nguyen Dynasty, this was the arena of the death war between elephants and tigers in order to sacrifice to the festival and serve the entertainment of the king, mandarins and people.

13
Stop 13

Hai Van pass is recognized as one of the world's top ten most beautiful coastal roads. This pass is not only connected with numerous historical events, but it is also a wonderful place for many travelers due to its spectacular and artistic beauty that captivates everyone’s heart. The perilous death curve, together with zigzag roads, will create a challenging trek for backpackers and bring incredibly unique experiences.

14

Hai Van pass is recognized as one of the world's top ten most beautiful coastal roads. This pass is not only connected with numerous historical events, but it is also a wonderful place for many travelers due to its spectacular and artistic beauty that captivates everyone’s heart. The perilous death curve, together with zigzag roads, will create a challenging trek for backpackers and bring incredibly unique experiences.

15
Stop 15

This is a group of five limestone mountains in Vietnam. This destination is not only a tourist attraction but also a Buddha worship site. Marble Mountains is a natural masterpiece bestowed to the land of Da Nang. With the harmonious beauty of the ecological area and the spiritual and cultural life, this destination attracts a lot of visitors. According to Cham legend, one day a dragon flew to Non Nuoc beach and laid an egg there. After a long time, the egg hatched and a beautiful girl stepped out of the egg. The egg shell was broken into 5 pieces that became the five magical mountains as we see today. In 1825, emperor Minh Mang named this mountain complex Marble Mountains, which means “Ngu Hanh Son” in Vietnamese. Each mountain was named after one of the five elements of Eastern philosophy: metal, water, fire, wood and earth. These names remain unchanged until now, and Marble Mountains have become a natural attraction with many majestic peaks, caves and temples.

16

Hai Van pass is recognized as one of the world's top ten most beautiful coastal roads. This pass is not only connected with numerous historical events, but it is also a wonderful place for many travelers due to its spectacular and artistic beauty that captivates everyone’s heart. The perilous death curve, together with zigzag roads, will create a challenging trek for backpackers and bring incredibly unique experiences.

What's not included

Tips/Gratuities for Guide/Driver, Entry Fees (200k/Imperial City, 150k/Royal Tomb OR Combo Tickets).

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8
43 reviews
5★
37
4★
5
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 5.0
651 reviews
5★
634
4★
16
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We do not include entry fee as you may want to buy COMBO TICKET (VALID for 2 DAYS) with better value for visiting the Citdel and 2 or 3 Royal Tombs.
To save the waiting time for queue up at the ticket office, please prepare money and our tour guide can help everyone to buy entry ticket (if you have not bought yet)!

Meeting point

For walking tour: Pick-up is not included, and our local tour guide will be meeting at 4 Cannons Area of Ngan Gate (Cửa Ngăn). Please note that, there are also 5 cannons on the other side!

Important notes

• Dress code is smart casual

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.

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

Adults
Age 12-85
1
Childs
Age 3-6
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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