Hue: The Complete Guide

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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.

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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16 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
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Xiquinho Silva
Phu Van Lau, also known as Phu Van Tower, is a significant historical structure located on the main axis of Hue Imperial City, directly in front of the Flag Tower and overlooking the Perfume River. Built in 1819 during the reign of King Gia Long, this two-story tower served as a place to display important […]
Location: Phu Van Lau, Lê Duẩn Phú Thuân Thành phố Huế Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Phu Van Tower

Nine Holy Cannons of Nguyen Dynasty

Nine Holy Cannons Of Nguyen Dynasty
Public Domain / Lưu Ly
The Nine Holy Cannons (Cửu Vị Thần Công) are a renowned landmark in Hue and a symbol of the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty. Cast between 1803 and 1804 at the command of Emperor Gia Long, these cannons, also known as the “Nine Gods,” are celebrated as masterpieces of bronze art and are considered the […]
Location: Nine Holy Cannons, P, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Nine Holy Cannons of Nguyen Dynasty

Hien Nhan Gate

Hien Nhan Gate
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Bùi Thụy Đào Nguyên
Hien Nhan Gate is one of the significant gates in the Hue Imperial Citadel, part of the complex of structures that make up the historic capital of the Nguyen Dynasty in Hue, Vietnam. The gate is one of the smaller, lesser-known gates compared to the more prominent ones like Ngo Mon Gate, but it still […]
Location: Hien Nhon Gate, Đoàn Thị Điểm, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 1.1km
Visiting Hien Nhan Gate

The Royal Theatre, Hue

Royal Theatre Citadel Of Hu-Forbidden Purple City
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Francisco Anzola
Duyệt Thị Đường (Royal Theater) is an important historical site located southeast of the Forbidden Purple City within the Hue Imperial City complex. Built in 1826 during the reign of Emperor Minh Mang, this theater was initially intended exclusively for the royal family, making it a significant cultural landmark of the Nguyen Dynasty. Duyệt Thị […]
Location: Duyet Thi Duong Royal Theater FHCH+4C6, Đoàn Thị Điểm Phú Hậu Thành phố Huế Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam | Distance: 1.3km
Visiting The Royal Theatre, Hue

Thai Hoa Palace

Hall Of Supreme Harmony Hue
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Christophe95
Thai Hoa Palace, or Hall of Supreme Harmony, is an integral part of the Hue Imperial City, an ancient walled complex dating back to the 19th century. This historic area served as the residence of the royal family and included a variety of structures such as palaces, shrines, offices, and gardens. Located in the outer […]
Location: Thái Hòa Palace, Hai Mươi Ba Tháng Tám, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 1.3km
Visiting Thai Hoa Palace

Nhat Thanh Lau

Nhật Thành Pavillon
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Suicasmo
Nhat Thanh Lau is a historically significant two-story building located in the eastern part of the Hue Imperial City, specifically to the east of Can Thanh Palace and south of Thai Binh Lau. This site originally served as the location of Minh Than Palace. According to historical accounts, Nhat Thanh Lau functioned as a Buddha […]
Location: Nhật Thành Lâu, Phú Hậu, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 1.4km
Visiting Nhat Thanh Lau

Hien Lam Pavilion

Pavilion Of Splendour
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Supanut Arunoprayote
The Hien Lam Pavilion, also known as the Pavilion of Splendour or Pavilion of the Glorious Coming, is a significant historical structure located in the center of the Dynastic Temple’s courtyard within the Hue Citadel, in the southwest corner of the Imperial Enclosure. Built in 1824 by Emperor Minh Mang, this three-story pavilion serves as […]
Location: Hien Lam Pavilion, Hai Mươi Ba Tháng Tám, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 1.4km
Visiting Hien Lam Pavilion

The Royal Library, Hue

Royal Reading Pavilion
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Christophe95
The Royal Library, constructed by Emperor Minh Mang in 1821, is a serene and culturally significant structure located in the northeastern quarter of the Forbidden Purple City within the Hue Imperial City complex. Originally designed as a personal retreat for the emperor, the library served as a quiet sanctuary where he could immerse himself in […]
Location: Thai Binh Pavilion, Đoàn Thị Điểm Phú Hậu Thành phố Huế Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam | Distance: 1.4km
Visiting The Royal Library, Hue

Halls of the Mandarins

Ta Vu
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Christophe95
The Halls of the Mandarins are located just behind Thai Hoa Palace, flanking either side of a paved courtyard. These halls played a significant role in the imperial court, serving as offices and preparation areas for the mandarins before they attended court ceremonies. One hall was designated for military mandarins, while the other was reserved […]
Visiting Halls of the Mandarins

Forbidden Purple City

Royal Theatre Citadel Of Hu
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Aleksey Gnilenkov
The Forbidden Purple City, inspired by Beijing’s Forbidden City, was once a magnificent part of the imperial complex. The emperor would have entered this secluded area from Thai Hoa Palace, passing through the Great Golden Gate. Enclosed by a low wall, the Forbidden Purple City contained residential palaces, quarters for the state physician and royal […]
Visiting Forbidden Purple City

Hung Mieu Temple

Hung Mieu Temple
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Suicasmo
Hung Mieu Temple, constructed in 1821 by Emperor Minh Mang, was built to honor his grandparents. This temple, located within the Imperial City of Huế, is renowned for its refined design and exquisite roof carvings, which reflect the artistic sophistication of the Nguyen Dynasty. The temple suffered significant damage from a fire in 1947, but […]
Location: Hung Mieu Temple, Lê Huân, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 1.5km
Visiting Hung 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 a significant Confucian royal ancestral shrine located within the Imperial City of Huế. Constructed between 1822 and 1823 by Emperor Minh Mạng, the temple was built to honor and worship the emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty, from Gia Long to Khai Dinh. […]
Location: The To Temple, Lê Huân Phú Hậu Thành phố Huế Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam | Distance: 1.5km
Visiting Mieu Temple

The Tower of Peace

Tu Phuong Vo Su Tower
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Trần Anh Đức
Tu Phuong Vo Su Tower is a notable two-story architectural structure located on the Bac Khuyet platform of the Hue Imperial Citadel, near Hoa Binh Gate, the north gate of the Imperial City. Built in 1923 under the reign of King Khai Dinh, the tower was constructed to prepare for the “Tu tuan dai khanh […]
Location: Lầu Tứ Phương Vô Sự, Đặng Thái Thân, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 1.6km
Visiting The Tower of Peace

Dien Tho Residence

Diên Thọ Palace
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Suicasmo
The Dien Tho Residence, originally constructed in 1804, served as the apartments and audience hall for the Queen Mothers of the Nguyen Dynasty within the Imperial City of Huế. This partially ruined yet stunning complex provides a glimpse into the royal lifestyle of the era. The residence, located in the northeastern part of the Imperial […]
Location: Dien Tho Palace 75 Lê Huân Phú Hậu Thành phố Huế Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam | Distance: 1.6km
Visiting Dien Tho Residence

Cung Truong Sanh (Grand Queen Mother’s Residence)

Cung Truong Sanh
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Vinhtantran
Cung Trường Sanh, also known as the Grand Queen Mother’s Residence, is an important part of the Hue Imperial Citadel, located in the northwest section of the complex. Originally built in 1821 during the reign of Emperor Minh Mang, it was initially intended as a flower garden where the Nguyen Dynasty kings could invite their […]
Location: Cung Trường Sanh, Lê Huân, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 1.7km
Visiting Cung Truong Sanh (Grand Queen Mother’s Residence)

Thien Mu Pagoda

Chùa Thiên Mụ
CC BY-SA 3.0 / LÊ TẤN LỘC
Thien Mu Pagoda, also known as Linh Mu Pagoda, is an ancient and significant Buddhist temple located on Ha Khe Hill, on the left bank of the Perfume River, about 5 kilometers west of Hue city center in Vietnam. Established in 1601 during the reign of Lord Nguyen Hoang, the first Nguyen Lord in Dang […]
Location: Thien Mu Pagoda, Huế, Hương Long, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 5.1km
Visiting Thien Mu Pagoda

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.

Average Temperatures in Hue

  • January 26°C 22
  • February 29°C 11
  • March 30°C 12
  • April 35°C 15
  • May 35°C 26
  • June 35°C 18
  • July 35°C 25
  • August 35°C 25
  • September 32°C 55
  • October 30°C 65
  • November 28°C 64
  • December 26°C 44

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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