Hue, Vietnam: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

Hue Vietnam Thien Mu Temple and Pagoda
Hue Vietnam Thien Mu Temple and Pagoda
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Photo by CEphoto, Uwe Aranas

Hue is a city rich in history and stories. The Nguyen Dynasty kings established their feudal capital along Hue's fertile riverbanks and forested hills, leaving behind an impressive imperial legacy. However, this is just one of the many reasons to visit. Hue's exquisite cuisine is legendary, and its verdant streets are adorned with moss-covered pagodas, art déco mansions, and vibrant markets. The Perfume River meanders through the city, setting a relaxed pace that permeates the entire scene.

History of Hue

Ancient Origins of Hue

Hue’s history dates back to ancient times when it was part of the Champa Kingdom. The region’s fertile lands and strategic location made it a significant area for various Vietnamese dynasties.

Hue and the Nguyen Dynasty

In the early 19th century, Hue became the imperial capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty. Emperor Gia Long established the city as the political, cultural, and religious center of the nation. The construction of the Imperial City, a vast complex of palaces, temples, walls, and gates, symbolized the dynasty’s power and influence.

French Colonial Influence in Hue

During the mid-19th century, French colonial forces took control of Vietnam, including Hue. The city remained an important administrative center, with French architecture blending with traditional Vietnamese styles. The period saw significant changes in infrastructure and cultural exchanges.

Hue During the Vietnam War

Hue played a crucial role during the Vietnam War. The city was the site of the Battle of Hue in 1968, one of the longest and bloodiest battles of the war. The conflict caused extensive damage to the city and its historical monuments, many of which have since been restored.

Modern Day Hue

Today, Hue is recognized for its historical significance and cultural heritage. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors worldwide. The city’s rich history is preserved in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions, making it a vibrant destination for those looking to explore Vietnam’s past and present.

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Moira & Andy

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Visiting Hue for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Hue on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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21 Best places to See in Hue

This complete guide to Hue not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Hue and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Phu Van Tower

Phu Van Lau
Phu Van Lau
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Xiquinho Silva
Phu Van Lau, also known as Phu Van Tower, is one of the most iconic structures along the main axis of Hue Imperial City. Built in 1819 during the reign of King Gia Long, this elegant two-story pavilion served as the official platform for displaying royal documents, decrees, and the results of imperial examinations. Its prominent location facing the Perfume…
Location: Phu Van Lau, Lê Duẩn Phú Thuân Thành phố Huế Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Phu Van Tower
4.7 (569)

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Hue. Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Nine Holy Cannons

Nine Holy Cannons of Nguyen Dynasty
Nine Holy Cannons of Nguyen Dynasty
Public Domain / Lưu Ly
The Nine Holy Cannons, or Cửu Vị Thần Công, stand proudly beside Hue’s Flag Tower, forming one of the most distinctive landmarks within the Imperial City landscape. Cast between 1803 and 1804 under Emperor Gia Long, these enormous bronze weapons were created not for war but as protective symbols embodying imperial authority. Their immense size, intricate details, and storied origins…
Location: Nine Holy Cannons, P, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Nine Holy Cannons
4.5 (303)

Traveling to a country with a different currency? Avoid ATM transaction fees and pay in local currency with a Wise Card. Having used it for over 5 years, we've saved loads on fees!

Noon Gate

Hien Nhan Gate
Hien Nhan Gate
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Bùi Thụy Đào Nguyên
Noon Gate or Hien Nhan Gate is one of the lesser-known but historically meaningful entrances to the Hue Imperial Citadel. Located along the eastern wall, this gate once served as a controlled access point into the royal precincts, helping manage daily movement within the bustling political and ceremonial heart of the Nguyen Dynasty. While it lacks the grandeur of the…
Location: Hien Nhon Gate, Đoàn Thị Điểm, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Noon Gate
4.7 (114)

Click here to read our blog about 24 Hours in Hue 2026: The Ultimate One-Day Itinerary

Meridian Gate

Meridian Gate, Hue
Meridian Gate, Hue
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Supanut Arunoprayote.
Ngo Mon Gate or Meridian Gate is the most important of the five ceremonial entrances into Hue’s Imperial City, designed to project authority the moment you arrive. It’s a U-shaped structure with five passageways, where the central route was reserved for the Emperor while attendants and officials used the side gates—an architectural way of turning hierarchy into something you could…
Location: Meridian Gate, Thuận Thành, Huế, Hue City, Vietnam | Hours: (Summer) 16 March – 15 October; Daily: 06:30–18:00. (Winter) 16 October – 15 March; Daily: 07:00–17:30. | Price: 200,000 VND (adults); 40,000 VND (children 7–12); free for children under 7. | Website | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Meridian Gate
4.6 (2,033)

The Royal Theatre

Royal Theatre Citadel of Hu Forbidden Purple City
Royal Theatre Citadel of Hu Forbidden Purple City
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Francisco Anzola
The Royal Theatre or Duyệt Thị Đường, located southeast of the Purple Forbidden City within the Hue Imperial Citadel complex, is one of the most atmospheric corners of the imperial grounds. Built in 1826 for the exclusive use of the royal family, the theater was once a private sanctuary of music, opera, and courtly performance. Visiting today offers a serene…
Location: Duyet Thi Duong Royal Theater FHCH+4C6, Đoàn Thị Điểm Phú Hậu Thành phố Huế Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting The Royal Theatre
4.4 (264)

Thai Hoa Palace

Hall of Supreme Harmony Hue
Hall of Supreme Harmony Hue
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Christophe95
Thai Hoa Palace is one of the top attractions in Hue, serving as the ceremonial core of the ancient Imperial City. Standing just beyond the imposing Ngo Mon Gate, it’s the first major building visitors encounter, radiating grandeur with its brilliant colours, graceful symmetry, and refined imperial details. This palace hosted the most important state affairs, including royal audiences, national…
Location: Thái Hòa Palace, Hai Mươi Ba Tháng Tám, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Thai Hoa Palace
4.6 (423)

Nhat Thanh Lau

Nhat Thanh Pavillon
Nhat Thanh Pavillon
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Suicasmo
Nhat Thanh Lau, located in the eastern sector of the Hue Imperial City, is a two-story historical structure rebuilt on the original foundation of a royal Buddha temple. Positioned east of Can Thanh Palace and south of Thai Binh Lau, the building once formed part of the inner sanctum of the Forbidden City. Serving as a private Buddhist worship hall…
Location: Nhật Thành Lâu, Phú Hậu, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Nhat Thanh Lau
4.8 (24)

Hien Lam Pavilion

Pavilion of Splendour
Pavilion of Splendour
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Supanut Arunoprayote
The Hien Lam Pavilion, standing at the heart of the Dynastic Temple’s courtyard in the southwest corner of the Imperial Enclosure, is one of the most striking architectural symbols of the Nguyen Dynasty. Built in 1824 by Emperor Minh Mang, this three-story structure was designed as a grand memorial to individuals who shaped the dynasty’s rise. Its refined proportions, ornate…
Location: Hien Lam Pavilion, Hai Mươi Ba Tháng Tám, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Hien Lam Pavilion
4.7 (85)

The Royal Library

Royal Reading Pavilion
Royal Reading Pavilion
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Christophe95
The Royal Library, set within the northeastern quarter of the Forbidden Purple City, is one of the most peaceful and evocative historic structures in the entire Imperial City complex. Built in 1821 by Emperor Minh Mang, it was conceived as a personal haven for reading and reflective study, far from the pressures of court life. Its quiet beauty, set beside…
Location: Thai Binh Pavilion, Đoàn Thị Điểm Phú Hậu Thành phố Huế Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting The Royal Library

Halls of the Mandarins

Ta Vu
Ta Vu
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Christophe95
The Halls of the Mandarins sit just behind the grand Thai Hoa Palace, forming a pair of elegant pavilions that once served as working and ceremonial spaces for the emperor’s mandarins. These atmospheric buildings, flanking a broad courtyard, feel like stepping into the quiet backstage of imperial life, where officials prepared their robes and gathered before entering the formal halls…
Visiting Halls of the Mandarins
4.5 (20,682)

Forbidden Purple City

Royal Theatre Citadel of Hu
Royal Theatre Citadel of Hu
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Aleksey Gnilenkov
The Forbidden Purple City is one of the must-see places in Hue, offering a rare glimpse into the secretive world of Vietnam’s emperors. Hidden behind Thai Hoa Palace and once accessible only to the royal family, it was the most exclusive section of the Imperial City. Although much of it was destroyed by fire and wartime damage, the remaining structures…
| Hours: Typically 7:00–17:00, with longer hours in peak season. | Price: Included within the general Imperial City ticket. | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Forbidden Purple City
4.5 (38,288)

Hung Mieu Temple

Hung Mieu Temple
Hung Mieu Temple
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Suicasmo
Hung Mieu Temple, constructed in 1821 by Emperor Minh Mang, stands as a graceful and historically rich shrine within the Imperial City of Hue. Dedicated to the emperor’s grandparents, the temple embodies the Confucian emphasis on filial piety and ancestral reverence. Its beautifully carved rooflines, refined layout, and serene courtyards make it one of the top attractions in Hue. The…
Location: Hung Mieu Temple, Lê Huân, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Hung Mieu Temple
4.6 (153)

Mieu Temple

Mieu Temple
Mieu Temple
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Adam
The Mieu Temple, also known as Thế Miếu or Thế Tổ Miếu, is one of the most spiritually important sites within the Imperial City of Hue. Built between 1822 and 1823 by Emperor Minh Mang, it stands as a grand Confucian ancestral shrine dedicated to honoring the emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty. With its yellow glazed roof tiles, quiet courtyards,…
Location: The To Temple, Lê Huân Phú Hậu Thành phố Huế Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Mieu Temple
4.6 (153)

Tu Phuong Vo Su Tower

Tu Phuong Vo Su Tower
Tu Phuong Vo Su Tower
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Trần Anh Đức
Tu Phuong Vo Su Tower, also known as the Tower of Peace or the Pavilion of Four Directions, stands near the Hoa Binh Gate on the Bac Khuyet platform of the Hue Imperial Citadel. Built in 1923 under King Khai Dinh for his 40th birthday celebrations, the two-story structure quickly became a serene retreat for the royal family. Its breezy…
Location: Lầu Tứ Phương Vô Sự, Đặng Thái Thân, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Tu Phuong Vo Su Tower
4.4 (332)

Dien Tho Residence

Dien Tho palace
Dien Tho palace
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Suicasmo
The Dien Tho Residence, built in 1804, served as the luxurious living quarters and audience hall for the Queen Mothers of the Nguyen Dynasty. Situated in the northeastern area of the Imperial City, this partially ruined yet captivating complex showcases a blend of Vietnamese and French architectural styles, reflecting changing tastes across centuries. Its atmospheric halls and shaded courtyards make…
Location: Dien Tho Palace 75 Lê Huân Phú Hậu Thành phố Huế Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Dien Tho Residence
4.5 (234)

Cung Truong Sanh

Cung Truong Sanh
Cung Truong Sanh
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Vinhtantran
Cung Truong Sanh, also known as the Grand Queen Mother’s Residence, sits in the northwest corner of the Hue Imperial Citadel and offers one of the most atmospheric glimpses into royal domestic life. Originally built in 1821 during the reign of Emperor Minh Mang, it began as a tranquil flower garden where emperors could invite their mothers to relax amidst…
Location: Cung Trường Sanh, Lê Huân, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Cung Truong Sanh

Imperial Citadel

Imperial Citadel in Hue
Imperial Citadel in Hue
The Imperial Citadel in Hue stands as one of Vietnam’s most extraordinary historical landmarks—a vast walled complex surrounded by a protective moat, once the political, cultural, and ceremonial centre of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. Constructed under Emperor Gia Long in the early 19th century, the citadel blends traditional Vietnamese imperial design with influences from French military engineer…
Location: Imperial City, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Hours: April - September : from 6:30 AM to 18:00 October - March: 7:00 AM to 17:30 | Price: 200,000 (£7) | Website | Imperial Citadel Walking Tour | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Imperial Citadel
4.5 (20,682)
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Ho Quyen Arena

Hue Ancient Tiger Arena
Hue Ancient Tiger Arena
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Public Domain
Ho Quyen Arena or the Ancient Tiger Arena, located across the Perfume River from Thien Mu Pagoda, is one of Hue’s most unusual and overlooked historical sites. Tucked deep within the quiet lanes of Truong Da village, the arena suddenly emerges—a massive circular stone structure with walls rising nearly 5 metres high. Though reminiscent of an ancient Roman amphitheatre, this…
Location: Ho Quyen, Bùi Thị Xuân, Thủy Biều, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Ho Quyen Arena
4.1 (391)

Tomb of Tu Duc

Tomb of Tu Duc
Tomb of Tu Duc
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Bùi Thụy Đào Nguyên
Tu Duc Tomb, located about 8 kilometres from Hue, is one of the most atmospheric and elegantly designed mausoleums in the Complex of Hue Monuments. Built for Emperor Tu Duc, who ruled from 1847 to 1883, the site reflects his poetic soul, his deep connection to nature, and the personal tragedies that shaped his reign. With lotus-filled lakes, forested walkways,…
Location: Tu Duc Tomb, Cầu Đông Ba, thôn Thượng, Thủy Xuân, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Hours: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm daily | Price: 150,000 VND per adult | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Tomb of Tu Duc
4.5 (9,310)

Thien Mu Pagoda

Chua Thien Mu
Chua Thien Mu
CC BY-SA 3.0 / LÊ TẤN LỘC
Thien Mu Pagoda, also known as Linh Mu Pagoda, sits gracefully atop Ha Khe Hill overlooking the Perfume River, about 5 kilometres west of Hue. Founded in 1601 by Lord Nguyen Hoang, it is one of the oldest and most revered Buddhist temples in Central Vietnam. Steeped in legend, crowned with the iconic seven-storey Phuoc Duyen Tower, and surrounded by…
Location: Thien Mu Pagoda, Huế, Hương Long, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Hours: 8AM–6PM | Price: Free | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Thien Mu Pagoda
4.5 (17,933)
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Thanh Toan Bridge

Thanh Toan Bridge
Thanh Toan Bridge
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Contributeur2019
Thanh Toan Bridge, located about 6 kilometres southeast of Hue, is one of the most picturesque and culturally significant bridges in central Vietnam. Built in the late 18th century, this covered wooden bridge spans a quiet rural canal and showcases traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship with its curved roof, carved beams, and elegant tiled walkway. Surrounded by lush rice fields and village…
Location: Thanh Toàn Bridge, Lang Xá Bàu Hương Thủy Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam | Distance: 103.1km
Visiting Thanh Toan Bridge
4.6 (693)
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Best Day Trips from Hue

A day trip from Hue offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Hue provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary.

Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh

Khai Dinh Mausoleum Hue
Khai Dinh Mausoleum Hue
CC BY-SA 2.0 / dronepicr
The Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh rises dramatically from the forested hills outside Hue, offering one of the most visually striking experiences among Vietnam’s imperial tombs. Built for the 12th emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty, who ruled from 1916 to 1925, the tomb reflects Khai Dinh’s fascination with Western styles and materials encountered during his travels abroad. With its steep…
Location: Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh, Thủy Bằng, Hương Thủy, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Hours: 7 AM and 5 PM | Price: 150,000 VND Adult | Distance: 7.6km
Visiting Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh
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Minh Mang Tomb (Mausoleum of Minh Mang)

Hue Vietnam Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang
Hue Vietnam Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang
CC BY-SA 3.0 / CEphoto, Uwe Aranas
Minh Mang Tomb, located 12km from central Hue in An Bang village, is one of the most impressive and spiritually resonant mausoleums in Vietnam. Built for Emperor Minh Mang, the second emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty, the tomb reflects his strong commitment to Confucian ideals, Vietnamese tradition, and perfect architectural balance. With serene lakes, symbolic terraces, dragon-guarded stairways, and a…
Location: Hiếu Lăng - lăng mộ Minh Mạng Đế, Hương Thọ, Hương Trà District, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Hours: 7:30 am to 5 pm | Price: 150,000 VND Adults (Combined Tickets 420,000 VND) | Distance: 9.1km
Visiting Minh Mang Tomb (Mausoleum of Minh Mang)

Da Nang

Da Nang
Da Nang
With its expansive beaches, amazing street food, the legendary Hai Van Pass, and an ever-growing array of cafes, restaurants, and bars, it's no wonder the residents of Da Nang are some of the happiest in the country. The golden sands of My Khe Beach stretch southward from the mountainous Son Tra Peninsula. Da Nang is home to some of Vietnam's…
Visiting Da Nang
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Hoi An

hoi an night lanterns
hoi an night lanterns
Visiting Hoi An in Vietnam is like stepping back in time. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its well-preserved Ancient Town, where traditional wooden houses, lantern-lit streets, and historic temples create a picturesque and enchanting atmosphere. Walking through the narrow lanes, you can explore bustling markets, charming cafes, and artisanal shops selling everything from tailor-made clothing to intricate…
Visiting Hoi An
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Where to Stay in Hue

Staying in the city center near the Perfume River offers easy access to the Imperial City, pagodas, and river cruises. For a quieter stay, guesthouses in the countryside near Thanh Toan Bridge provide a peaceful retreat.

A 2 to 3-day stay is ideal for exploring Hue’s historic sites and enjoying local cuisine. A 4-day stay allows for visits to DMZ sites, Bach Ma National Park, or nearby fishing villages.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Hue. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Hue Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Hue

Visiting Hue in Spring

Spring, from March to April, is one of the best times to visit Hue. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The city experiences less rainfall during this period, making it ideal for exploring historical sites, enjoying outdoor activities, and experiencing local festivals.

Visiting Hue in Summer

Summer, from May to August, brings hot and humid weather to Hue, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). While this season can be intense, it’s a great time to visit the city’s beaches and enjoy water activities. Additionally, summer festivals and vibrant markets offer a lively cultural experience.

Visiting Hue in Autumn

Autumn, from September to November, is another favorable time to visit Hue. The weather becomes cooler and more comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). This season also marks the beginning of the rainy season, but the showers are typically short and infrequent, adding a refreshing touch to the city’s lush landscapes.

Visiting Hue in Winter

Winter, from December to February, is the coolest season in Hue, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). While it can be chilly, this is an excellent time to explore the city’s historical and cultural sites without the crowds. The cooler weather makes walking tours and outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 24°C
  • February 27°C
  • March 28°C
  • April 30°C
  • May 30°C
  • June 30°C
  • July 30°C
  • August 30°C
  • September 30°C
  • October 28°C
  • November 26°C
  • December 24°C

How to get to Hue

Traveling to Hue by Air

Hue is accessible by air through Phu Bai International Airport, located about 15 kilometers south of the city center. The airport offers both domestic flights from major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and some international flights. Upon arrival, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to reach the city center.

Traveling to Hue by Train

You can travel to Hue by train via the North-South Railway, also known as the Reunification Express. The Hue Railway Station is centrally located, making it convenient for travelers. Trains from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer comfortable and scenic journeys, allowing you to enjoy Vietnam's landscapes along the way.

Traveling to Hue by Bus

Several bus companies operate services to Hue from various cities across Vietnam. The main bus station, located in the city center, provides easy access to local transportation. Buses are a cost-effective and flexible option for reaching Hue, with both day and night services available.

Traveling to Hue by Car

Driving to Hue is another option, especially if you prefer flexibility and comfort. The city is well-connected by road, with the National Highway 1A running through it. The journey from nearby cities like Da Nang and Hoi An offers scenic views of central Vietnam's countryside and coastal areas.

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