What’s new for 2027
- Since 1 January 2025 Hue is a centrally-run city (it replaced Thua Thien Hue province), and since 1 July 2025 its wards have been merged and renamed. Addresses below keep the street and old ward names; your map app may show the new ward.
- Monument entrance fees change, so we removed the old ticket prices; street-food prices below are indicative only. Let your guide handle tickets on a private Hue city tour.
| Tour | Length | From (per person) |
|---|---|---|
| Hue City Tour (full day) | Day trip | US$67 |
| DMZ Tour from Hue | Day trip | US$87 |
| Bach Ma National Park Day Trip | Day trip | US$100 |
| Da Nang and Hue in 4 Days | 4 days | US$560 |
| Central Vietnam in 6 Days | 6 days | US$840 |
| Vietnam: 9 Days of Culture and History | 9 days | US$1,454 |
Book a private Hue city tour
Tell us your date and hotel and we confirm your guide, car and the best order for the day – usually within 24 hours.
1. Overview of Hue City
Hue City is a vibrant and lively city located in the central region of Vietnam. It has a rich cultural heritage, with many temples, pagodas, and monuments that are popular tourist attractions. Hue is also known for its stunning natural beauty, including beaches, rivers, and mountains. The city offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy, from shopping at local markets to exploring ancient ruins or taking a boat ride along the Huong River. With its unique blend of culture and nature, full day Hue City tour is an ideal option for travelers looking to experience something truly special in Vietnam.
Book a private Hue city tour: price and what is included
If you want this route done for you, our private Hue city tour covers the whole day described in this guide: a dragon boat on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda, the tombs of Emperor Minh Mang and Emperor Tu Duc, a Hue-style lunch, the Imperial Citadel and Dong Ba Market, with door-to-door pick-up from your hotel.
From US$67 per person (2 travellers, private car, guide, boat, lunch and all entrance tickets). Your final price is confirmed in your quote.
| Morning | Dragon boat on the Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda |
| Midday | Tombs of Minh Mang and Tu Duc, Hue-style lunch |
| Afternoon | Imperial Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City |
| Late afternoon | Dong Ba Market, return to your hotel |
Private car and guide in your language (on request), private boat, lunch, entrance tickets, water.
2. Itinerary of Hue city tour
Hue city tour will start in the morning when you move to the private car from the hotel to go sightseeing. The tour begins with a visit to the Hue Imperial Citadel, a 17th-century citadel that serves as a reminder of the time when Hue was the imperial capital of Vietnam. Continuing the tour tourist move to Thien Mu Pagoda, a majestic Buddhist Pagoda established in 1601. After exploring these two sites, visitors will take a boat ride along the Perfume River and enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants.
In the afternoon, the tour continues with visits to Khai Dinh Tomb, Tu Duc tomb, and Dong Ba market. The final stop for the tour is Traditional Conical Hat and Incense Making Class. Finally, visitors will wrap up the Hue city full-day tour with the Huong River Cruise, a perfect way to finish a wonderful itinerary. Click to Hue city tour to know more information.
3. Where to visit in Hue city full day tour
3.1. Thien Mu pagoda
Thien Mu Pagoda, also known as Linh Mu Pagoda, is a historic temple located in Hue City. Built-in 1601 by the Nguyen Lords, Thien Mu Pagoda is one of the oldest and most iconic religious structures in Vietnam. The pagoda is filled with unique and vibrant architecture, statues, and other religious artifacts which have been collected over its 400-year history. Thien Mu Pagoda is also famous for its carillon bell, which was gifted to the temple by Emperor Thieu Tri in 1844. The bell is rung four times a day and can be heard throughout Hue City. The pagoda is open daily and visitors can explore its grounds, observe religious ceremonies, and learn about its history. It’s a great place for travelers in Hue city full-day tour.
- Opening hours: 6 am – 6 pm
- Entrance: free
Plan your Vietnam trip in 1 minute
Pick your month to see the weather by region, or estimate your budget — then get a private itinerary from our Hanoi team.
Typical seasonal patterns; weather varies year to year. Our team checks your exact dates when we prepare your itinerary.
"From" prices published on our Vietnam tour cost guide: per person per day, 2 travellers sharing, private guide & driver, hotels, listed activities. International flights, e-visa, insurance and tips not included. Final price is confirmed in your written quote.
3.2. Hue Imperial Citadel
The Imperial City of Hue, famous for being one of Vietnam’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is a must-see destination for travelers visiting Hue. The Imperial City of Hue was a walled stronghold and palace of the ancient city of Hue, which served as the capital city of the Nguyen Dynasty for 140 years, from 1805 to 1945. These structures took many years to build, but many of them were destroyed by bombs during the French and American Wars, and they are currently being restored. Many of the remaining structures are now vacant and open to visitors, while some have been restored, such as halls and city gates.
- Opening hours: 8 am – 5:30 pm
- Entrance: check the current fee at the ticket office before you go (prices change; combo tickets for several monuments are sold).
3.3. Dong Ba Market
Dong Ba Market is the next place in your Hue city full day tour itinerary. Dong Ba Market is an important trading location in Hue City for locals. The market is open daily from early morning until late evening and it offers a wide range of items such as food, clothing, souvenirs, handicrafts and more. Here visitors can find unique items that are not available elsewhere, as well as sample local specialties. In addition to the traditional Vietnamese goods and products, there are also plenty of modern items such as electronics and fashion accessories. Dong Ba Market is a great place to get lost in its vibrant atmosphere and find something unique to take home as gifts.
- Opening hours: 6 am – 6 pm
- Entrance: free
3.4. Khai Dinh King’s Tomb
Khai Dinh King’s Tomb is a unique and impressive place of worship located in Hue City. Built in 1920, this tomb is dedicated to Emperor Khai Dinh who ruled Vietnam from 1916 until his death in 1925. The tomb is unique for its combination of traditional Vietnamese and European architectural styles, symbolizing the country’s transition from a monarchy to a republic. Visitors can explore the various chambers of the tomb, as well as learn about Khai Dinh’s life and reign. In addition, there are also several statues and sculptures decorating the site, making it an interesting place to visit and admire.
- Opening hours: 6:30 am – 5:30 pm
- Entrance: check the current fee at the ticket office before you go (prices change; combo tickets for several monuments are sold).
3.5. Tu Duc King’s Tomb
The final destination of your visit to Hue is Tu Duc King’s Tomb. Tu Duc King’s Tomb is a majestic and elaborate tomb complex located in Hue City, dedicated to Emperor Tu Duc who ruled from 1848 to 1883. This stunning temple stands out for its unique combination of traditional Vietnamese and French architectural styles. The complex includes several gates, pavilions and monuments that offer insight into the life and rule of the emperor. Visitors can explore the site and admire its peaceful atmosphere, as well as learn more about Tu Duc’s life through a visit to his tomb.
- Opening hours: 7 am – 5:30 pm
- Entrance: check the current fee at the ticket office before you go (prices change; combo tickets for several monuments are sold).
4. Other experiences you should try in Hue City
4.1. Walk along the Huong River
Perfume River is a famous place that is considered a symbol of Hue city. Walking along Huong river is an interesting experience for you to fully enjoy the beauty of Hue. There is a lovely waterfront walkway along the river’s banks that is a terrific area to come for a gorgeous evening walk. If you want to have a closer look at the river, you can rent a paddleboat or go on an elegant dinner cruise.
4.2. Discover Bach Ma National Park
Bach Ma National Park is 1,450m above sea level and contains some of Hue’s most beautiful landscapes. There are several ancient French villas to see along the way, as well as towering waterfalls and beautiful hiking trails. The national park is part of the larger Annamite Range, which is recognized for its rich vistas. You can either stay overnight at the campground or simply spend a day swimming in clear pools and admiring its flora and animals.
4.3. Cycle around the city
Hue is often regarded as one of the best cities in Vietnam for cycling. You will find significantly less traffic here compared to other regions and you can also cycle along the green banks of the Huong River or visit all the important sights for which Hue is famous. You can rent a bike to go it alone, or you could just join a guided bike trip that will take you through Hue or out into the neighboring countryside. It definitely is a great experience in your Hue city full-day tour.
5. What to eat in Hue city full day tour
5.1. Bun bo Hue
Bun bo Hue is a popular and delicious type of Vietnamese noodle soup that originates from the city of Hue. It is characterized by its robust, spicy flavor that comes from a combination of lemongrass, shrimp paste, chili pepper and pork broth. The noodles used for this dish are wide, flat and slightly chewy, and the soup is usually served with a side of fresh herbs and lime. Bun bo Hue is an iconic dish that provides an unforgettable taste of Hue City’s vibrant culinary culture.
Place to eat bun bo hue
Bun Bo Hue Hanh
- Address: Kiet 56, Nguyen Cong Tru, Hue City
- Price: 30,000 VND per bowl
Bun Bo Hue My Tam
- Address: 5 Tran Cao Van, Vinh Ninh, Hue City
- Price: 40,000 VND per bowl
5.2. Com hen Hue
Hue Clam rice or Com hen Hue is not only a common meal for Hue residents, but it is also a well-known Vietnamese dish in Central Vietnam. That is why Com Hen is at the top of the list of Hue delicacies for food lovers. Hue Clam rice needs an abundance of things to be mixed together in a bowl. Basket clams, rice, fried onions, fried pork skin, roasted peanuts, chilli, basil, annato oil, garlic, Hue shrimp paste, spices, star fruit, roasted sesame seeds, and fish sauce are all required. Com hen Hue will be a great choice for your lunch in the hue city full day tour itinerary.
Place to eat com hen Hue
Com Hen Hoa Dong
- Address: 64 Kiet 7 Ung Binh Street, Vy Da Ward, Hue City
- Price: 15,000 VND per bowl
Com Hen Han Mac Tu
- Address: 17 Han Mac Tu Street, Vy Da Ward, Hue City
- Price: 10,000 – 20,000 VND per bowl
5.3. Banh beo
Banh beo is one of Hue’s most well-known rice flour cakes. It comprises of steamed rice cakes covered with pork rinds and dried shrimp, as well as scallions, mung bean paste, roasted peanuts, and fried shallots. Banh beo Hue has a unique and delicious flavor thanks to its combination of fish sauce, chili pepper, and other spices. The dish is usually served with a side of fresh herbs and lime wedges, adding an extra layer of flavor to the already flavorful dish.
Place to eat banh beo
Hang Me Me
- Address: 14 Vo Thi Sau, Phu Hoi, Hue City
- Price: from 15,000 VND
Hanh Restaurant
- Address: 11 Pho Duc Chinh Street, Hue City
- Price: from 40,000 VND
6. Conclusion
In conclusion, Hue city full day tour is a perfect way to experience the rich history and culture of this ancient city in Vietnam. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, visitors can learn about the city’s fascinating history, witness its stunning architecture and natural scenery, and taste its delicious cuisine. If you want to know more information about this beautiful city, please visit our website – Metta Voyage.
7. Contact us
Website: mettavoyage.com
Email: [email protected]
Hotline 24/7: + 84 812 247 572
Planning your Hue city tour: practical tips
A full day is enough for the essentials covered above: Thien Mu Pagoda, the Imperial Citadel, Dong Ba Market and the tombs of Khai Dinh and Tu Duc, finishing with a boat trip on the Perfume (Huong) River. With a second day you can add Bach Ma National Park, a bike ride through the countryside or a slower evening by the river.
Most travellers combine Hue with Da Nang and Hoi An, a few hours to the south by road or rail, so it fits naturally into a central Vietnam itinerary.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to see Hue in one day?
Start early at Thien Mu Pagoda, spend the late morning in the Imperial City, take a boat on the Perfume River, then visit the Khai Dinh and Tu Duc tombs and Dong Ba Market in the afternoon.
How much does a private Hue city tour cost?
Our private Hue City Tour is listed from US$67 per person for 2 travellers, with lunch, a private car and driver and a private English-speaking guide; guides in your language are available on request. The final price is in your quote.
Is one day enough for Hue?
One full day covers the Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda and two royal tombs. Stay a second day for Minh Mang’s tomb, the DMZ or Bach Ma National Park.
Is the Hue Imperial City a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes. The Complex of Hue Monuments, including the Imperial City, was inscribed by UNESCO in 1993. Hue was the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1805 to 1945. Official information: the Hue Monuments Conservation Centre (hueworldheritage.org.vn).
What should I eat in Hue?
Try bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup), com hen (rice with baby clams) and banh beo (steamed rice cakes), the local specialities described above.
Plan your private Vietnam tour
See our Hue city day tour or Da Nang & Hue in 4 days, or get my free itinerary.
