Thinking of visiting Hue? Don’t go before reading these 8 answers

Hue was once the imperial capital of the country of the Dragon in the 19th century. With a UNESCO World Heritage site designation, Hue is an exceptional city in terms of culture, history and architecture. It is surrounded by mountains, lagoons, and beaches, with the poetic Paerfume River flowing through it. Hue is considered a must-visit destination in the country. Join us as we explore the top sites not to be missed and provide you with all the practical information to fully enjoy this beautiful city in Central Vietnam.

Written by Tieu Bao (Local Expert) Updated on 05-07-2025

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1. Where is Hue located?

Hue, officially Thua Thien Hue, is a central Vietnamese city, located near Da Nang, the regional capital. Positioned between Hanoi to the north and Ho Chi Minh City to the south, it’s bordered by the stunning Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam's most scenic routes. Hue boasts a 120 km coastline, blending sea views with the grandeur of the mountains.

As one of the central region's cultural and tourism hubs, Hue is known as the "Once Glorious Capital" due to its UNESCO World Heritage sites.

2. Hue - The former imperial capital of Vietnam

When we think of Hue, we immediately think of the former imperial capital of Vietnam. As the last imperial capital of Vietnam (1802-1945), Hue is home to numerous cultural-historical monuments linked to feudal dynasties: citadels, palaces, tombs, temples, and pagodas.

Because of its artisanal towns that focus on producing these recognizable hats, Hue is referred to as the "conical hat capital." Local craftspeople are praised for their abilities, particularly when it comes to making caps with poems and embroidered motifs.

The Trang Tien Bridge, which elegantly crosses the Perfume River, is another representation of Hue. Constructed by the French in 1899, this graceful bridge silently observes the passing of time and continues to serve as an eternal link between the past and present.

3. How to get to Hue?

>>> Learn more about:

• How to Travel to Vietnam? Your Ultimate Guide 
• How to get from Hue to Hoi An
• How to Get from Hanoi to Hue

4. What is the best time to visit Hue?

For pleasant weather, visit Hue in spring (late January to March), when temperatures are cool with some sunshine and light showers in January.

Summer (April to August) is perfect for beachgoers, with warm weather, beautiful beaches, and refreshing sea water.

The rainy season lasts from September to early January of the following year. The rains are heavy, especially in October, sometimes causing flooding. In November, storms can occur. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before traveling.

5. The 10 best places to visit in Hue: What to Do and See in Hue?

• Imperial City Hue

The Imperial Citadel of Hue is a significant historical site, serving as the capital of the Nguyen dynasty from 1805 to 1945. Now part of the UNESCO-listed Hue Monument Complex, it stands as a treasured relic.

The citadel, which housed monarchs and their concubines, was once home to more than 150 palaces and was decorated with elaborate sculptures and vibrant reliefs. It displays a distinctive fusion of Vauban elements and Eastern philosophy in its architectural design.

>>> Read More: Hue Imperial City

• The Tombs of the Kings

Tu Duc Tomb

Among a group of monuments in Huế that are absolutely worth visiting, the Tu Duc Tomb is one of the most appreciated tombs among the seven imperial tombs of Hue, not only for its large number of buildings built, but also for its majestic architectural ensemble, meticulously designed and decorated.

Minh Mang Mausoleum

Minh Mang Mausoleum is dedicated to the second emperor of the Nguyen dynasty. The Minh Mang mausoleum is simpler than that of Tu Duc but is no less magnificent. It rivals the Tu Duc mausoleum for its harmonious beauty and its undeniable charm.

Khai Dinh Mausoleum

Built after the mausoleums of its predecessors and influenced by Western architectural trends, the Khai Dinh mausoleum stands out from the others, both in substance and in form. Although it is also built with a concern for harmony as tradition dictates, the Khai Dinh mausoleum is, on the other hand, shaped with cement on a very steep hill.

Some notes we take away:

• The Gia Long Mausoleum may not be the grandest, but it gives an interesting overview of the Nguyen dynasty.
• Minh Mang’s Mausoleum is the standout, boasting beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings. A must-see.

The beauty of other mausoleums is appreciated differently by tourists, depending on their tastes. For example, French tourists generally prefer Minh Mang, then Tu Duc. On the other hand, the English and the Japanese are more attracted by Khai Dinh. Everyone can find something of interest in discovering the different facets of these magnificent sites.

• Mausoleum of Emperor Dong Khanh

Dong Khanh Tomb (Tu Lang) is in Hue’s Thuy Xuan Ward, where King Dong Khanh, who reigned from 1886 to 1888, is buried. Construction began in 1888 and continued under later kings. The tomb combines traditional and modern designs, with the Ngung Hy Palace featuring lacquer work and Chinese-inspired motifs. It’s an important site, reflecting Vietnam's historical shift in the late 19th century.

• The Incense Village of Thuy Xuan

Located just 7 km southwest of downtown Hue, Thuy Xuan Incense Village has its roots in a rich history dating back around 700 years to the Nguyen Dynasty. Once a supplier of incense to the royal court, mandarins, and residents of surrounding areas, this village continues to preserve and develop its traditions despite many changes over time.

Visitors can get an up-close look at the traditional incense-making process and even take part in some stages. Plus, you can wear the elegant Ao Dai (traditional Vietnamese clothing) and take stunning photos among the vibrant incense of the village.

• Dong Ba Market

To the right of Truong Tien Bridge is Dong Ba Market, the oldest and largest market in Hue. With everything from fresh food to apparel and trinkets, it's one of the biggest marketplaces in central Vietnam and gives tourists a genuine taste of local culture.

Hue is also the birthplace of the iconic Non La (Vietnamese conical hat). Dong Ba Market is the ideal spot to pick up a beautiful one as a souvenir.

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• Perfume River

Beginning in the Truong Son Range on the boundary between Laos and Vietnam, the Perfume River runs through Hue. It is a representation of Hue's imperial past and is lined with temples, pagodas, and royal tombs. You must take a dragon boat trip here to experience the natural fragrances that give the river its name.

• Thiên Mụ Pagoda

The most well-known pagoda in Hue is Thiên Mụ, which is situated on a hill and offers breathtaking views of the Perfume River. From a distance, one can see its seven-story octagonal tower. A magnificent pagoda sits in the middle of the roomy courtyard, which leads to a lovely bonsai garden on either side. This lovely pagoda provides a calm environment for meditation.

>>> Read More: Thien Mu Pagoda: Hue's Timeless Icon

• Village Thuy Bieu

Hue is famous for its collection of imperial monuments, but we often forget that its essential excursions also include exploring the surrounding villages.

Hue's traditional villages, with their garden houses, are essential to its cultural identity. Thuy Bieu, located 6 km from the city center, stands out as a magnificent rural village where time seems to have stood still, making it one of the most beautiful in Vietnam.

• Discover the ghost town of An Bang

An Bang Cemetery, also referred to as the "Ghost Town," is around 35 kilometers from Hue and is well-known for its opulent mausoleums. Despite not being a recognized tourist destination, it attracts a lot of tourists because of its moniker, "City of Tombs."

These tombs, which combine aspects of Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism, and Islam, are distinguished by their magnificent pillars, elaborate carvings, and imaginative decorating with shattered pottery.

• Tam Giang Lagoon

Tam Giang Lagoon is located near to Thuan An Beach, one of Hue's most stunning beaches, and is approximately 45 minutes from the city center. The lagoon offers a look into the lake life of Hue's fisherman and is similar to Tonle Sap with its fishing settlements on the sea. Off the usual route, it's a tranquil, genuine getaway.

>>> Discover now: The Best Lagoons and Lakes in Vietnam!

• Lang Co Beach & Bay

Lang Co Bay is known for its clear blue waters and expansive white sand beaches. With an average temperature of 25°C, the air is pleasantly mild. The bay maintains its natural, peaceful charm, with a quaint fishing village along the coast and friendly, welcoming fishermen. 

• Hai Van Pass

Hai Van Pass is a famous road that runs along the coast from Hue to Hoi An, so named because its summit is often covered in clouds. It is one of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in the world. On one side you will see majestic mountains, on the other, the immensity of the sea, creating a unique visual harmony.

From the top of Hai Van Pass, looking south, you can see the modern city of Da Nang. Turning north, you will discover charming fishing villages and Lang Co Bay with its emerald green water beaches.

• Ru Cha mangrove forest

In Thuận Hòa village, along the Tam Giang Lagoon, lies Rú Chá - a wild mangrove forest named after the native "chá" tree. "Rú" means forest. Come in autumn and you’ll catch the whole place glowing with golden blossoms. No ticket needed.

>>> Map of places to visit in Hue:

Please click on the "[ ]" at the top right for better visibility

7. What are the culinary specialties of Hue not to be missed?

• Bun Bo Hue

Bún Bò Huế is a culinary specialty originating from the imperial city of Huế. This flavorful noodle soup combines spicy broth, rice vermicelli (bún), beef (bò), and various spices. Known for its rich, aromatic, and spicy taste, it's a standout among other soups. Its preparation is intricate, thanks to the blend of complex flavors and fragrances.

• Banh bot loc

Bánh bột lọc, a dish originating from the city of Huế. It is a kind of small transparent and translucent glutinous rice cake, stuffed with seasoned minced pork or shrimp, all steamed. Bánh bột lọc is often served with lettuce leaves, aromatic herbs and a sauce for dipping.

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• Com hen

Cơm hến, a typical rice dish from the city of Huế. It is composed of steamed rice, small freshwater mussels called "hến", different herbs and vegetables, and a sauce made from chili pepper, garlic, nuoc mam (fish sauce) and lime. Everything is mixed together to create a flavorful and spicy dish, popular with Huế locals and visitors to the city.

Our last words,

Considered the heart of the national heritage, with its fabulous royal constructions, this city with poetic charm, where life is good, is also a paradise for gastronomy and sumptuous natural landscapes! Hué will satisfy travelers in search of nature, culture and culinary discoveries. Hué has everything to seduce you. So… what are you waiting for, go there!

 Or if you wish to visit Hanoi or any other travel destination in Vietnam, you can contact us to plan ahead for your trip.

✈️ Continue your travel:

• Hue Vietnam: all about the cultural and historical heart of the Centre
• Bun bo Hue, history and recipe for one of the best noodle soups in the world
• Hoi An, Vietnam: COMPLETE Sights, Weather & Practical Information Guide
• My Son Sanctuary, a cultural treasure near Hoi An
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Hue's Timeless Icon
• Is Hue or Hoi An the Better Choice for Your Trip?