During my six weeks backpacking through Vietnam, Hue was probably the most unassuming stop on my itinerary. Hardly anyone mentioned it to me, and all I really knew beforehand was the abandoned waterpark – something that’s become a bit of a TikTok sensation.
Many travellers see Hue as a stepping stone to get from the North to the South, whilst others skip it altogether. But I was genuinely surprised by how much Hue has to offer.
It has an immense amount of history: once the national capital, Hue was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors from 1802 to 1945. Today, it is filled with grand palaces, tombs, and shrines fit for royalty waiting for you to explore.
With two days in Hue, you can discover its imperial past, wander through abandoned spaces, and explore the gorgeous landscape surrounding the city. I’ve also included some more things to do in case you have more time in Hue.
Travelling to or from Hoi An?
I’ve included details on what I think is the best way to travel to or from Hue and Hoi An: The Hải Vân Pass.
This stunning bike route takes just a few hours along Vietnam’s beautiful coastline and is the perfect way to end (or start) your time in Hue. And don’t worry if you can’t ride a bike yourself, I’ll show you how you can still enjoy it.
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Hue at a Glance
Hue may be smaller and less famous than Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, but that’s part of its charm. With fewer crowds and a rich history of its own, it can feel more rewarding in many ways. This riverside city was once the centre of Vietnam, and its central location makes it the perfect stop to break up those long journeys between north and south.
Location
Hue sits in central Vietnam along the Perfume River, just a short drive from the coast. It’s only a few hours from Da Nang and Hoi An, making it easy to add to most itineraries. Being roughly halfway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, it’s an ideal stop to break up a long bus ride across the country.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hue is between March and August, when the weather is warm and mostly dry. From September to January, the rainy season brings cooler days and the chance of flooding.
Having said that, I did visit in January, right at the tail end of the wet season. I often found myself a little soggy from the rain, but the upside? Fewer crowds at the main attractions, and I had the eerie abandoned waterpark almost entirely to myself. Plus, there were plenty of dry spells during the day to explore without being drenched the whole time.
Historical and Cultural Overview
Hue is often called Vietnam’s cultural heart. From 1802 to 1945, it was the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, the last royal family to rule the country. This legacy is still visible today in the grand Imperial City, royal tombs scattered across the hills, and countless temples and pagodas.
What surprised me most was how impressive this side of Hue is. The Imperial Palace, in particular, is breathtaking – an incredible piece of architecture that really shows off the city’s royal past.
Things to do in Hue: Day 1
With this itinerary, I’ve assumed you’re already in Hue the night before, ready to start the morning bright and early, as whilst 2 days is plenty of time to explore Hue, you’ll want every second of it to do so.
Morning: The Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City
Time | 2-3 hours
Entrance Cost | Single ticket: 200k VND (Approx. 6.30 €).
Combo Ticket (Citadel + 2-3 Tombs): 420k – 530k VND.
Start your first day diving straight in with its biggest draw: the Imperial City. Arriving early means you’ll miss the worst of the crowds and, if you’re visiting in the dry season, avoid the midday heat too.
This sprawling UNESCO site (much bigger than it looks from the front), was built as the seat of the Nguyen emperors. Inside, you’ll find beautiful courtyards, atmospheric temples, and incredibly detailed palaces.
Highlights include the Noon Gate, where emperors once greeted visitors, and the Hall of Supreme Harmony, decorated with intricate dragon carvings. The Nine Holy Cannons outside are another impressive sight. Crafted in 1803, they’re considered masterpieces of Vietnamese bronze work.
And then there’s Hue’s Forbidden Purple City. Built in 1804 by Emperor Gia Long, this was once the private world of emperors, their wives, and concubines. Though much of it was damaged during wartime, wandering through its remains still gives you a powerful sense of the city’s imperial past.
I’d recommend setting aside at least two hours to explore, though history lovers could easily spend half a day here. To really get the most out of the experience, consider joining a walking tour.
Group tours can be very affordable at just a few euros, though tipping at the end is expected, and your entrance ticket is not included. Having a guide explain the stories and symbolism behind what you’re seeing makes the Citadel feel far more alive than exploring on your own.
Afternoon: Visit the Royal Tombs
Time | 3–5 hours (including transport and visiting 2–3 tombs)
Entrance Cost | Single tombs: expect to pay between 50k VND and 150k VND
Combo Ticket (Citadel + 2-3 Tombs): 420k – 530k VND.
In the afternoon, head out to see Hue’s famous royal tombs. There are seven main royal tombs in Hue, but is you only visit one, make it the Tomb of Khai Dinh. Perched on a hillside, it’s a dramatic blend of Vietnamese and French architecture, with colourful mosaics and sweeping views once you climb the steep staircase.
For something more tranquil, the Tomb of Tu Duc offers shady pine forests, peaceful lakes, and a sprawling layout perfect for a quiet wander. Minh Mang’s tomb is another highlight, with its symmetrical design and Confucian influence creating a sense of calm order.
Reaching the tombs is easiest by renting a motorbike and driving yourself. However, if you don’t feel comfortable renting a scooter, you can always take a Grab, but this can get quite expensive quickly if you plan to visit more than one tomb.
A better option is to hire a driver for the day. Expect to pay around 600k VND (about US$24) for visiting the three main tombs – Tu Duc, Khai Dinh, and Minh Mang – with plenty of time (around 1–1.5 hours) to explore each. It’s a stress-free way to get around and surprisingly affordable if you’re travelling with someone else to split the cost
Another option is booking a private group tour online. This takes care of the logistics and includes commentary so you learn more about the history behind each tomb. However, whilst it gives you the most information, it is the most expensive option. The choice is really up to you.
Between tomb visits, stop for lunch and try bún bò Huế – the city’s signature spicy beef noodle soup. It’s hearty, fiery, and absolutely delicious.
Evening: Perfume River and Dong Ba Night Market
After a busy day, you’re brain may need a rest after overloading on all of Hue’s history. Head back to the city and take an evening walk along the Perfume River for a slower pace.
The riverside comes alive in the evenings, with locals walking, cycling, or just enjoying the breeze. Crossing the Trang Tien Bridge as it lights up after dark is a simple but lovely experience.
For dinner, head to the Dong Ba Night Market, where you can graze on all kinds of Hue specialities. Having been around for more than a hundred years, it’s a bit of Hue’s history you can quite literally taste. Try some crispy bánh khoái pancakes, grilled meat skewers, or sweet chè desserts to end your first day in Hue.
Things to do in Hue: Day 2
After exploring Hue’s imperial past on Day 1, today is all about mixing culture with adventure. You’ll start with a peaceful riverside temple, step into an eerie abandoned water park, and end the day with a sunset dragon boat ride followed by a food-filled evening. It’s the perfect balance of history, quirk, and flavour.
Morning: Thien Mu Pagoda and Riverside Walk
Time | 2–3 hours
Entrance Cost | Free
Start your second day with a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s most iconic Buddhist temple. Built in 1601, it’s perched on a hill overlooking the Perfume River, and its 7-storey pagoda is instantly recognisable in photos. Take your time wandering the peaceful grounds, admire the intricate statues, and enjoy the serene riverside views.
It’s about an hour’s walk downriver from the Imperial City, so depending on where you’re staying, you can stroll along the riverbank. Alternatively, consider renting a bike or scooter to make the most of being on this side of town.
Cycling or riding through the nearby countryside offers a glimpse into everyday life. You’ll pass small villages, rice paddies, and locals working in the fields. Pause at a riverside café for a cup of strong Vietnamese coffee before continuing into your afternoon adventure.
Afternoon: Abandoned Water Park (Hồ Thủy Tiên)
Time | 1–2 hours
Entrance Cost | Free (informal entry, no official ticket, but a local may be there to take an unofficial fee)
For something completely different, head out of the city to Hồ Thủy Tiên, Hue’s abandoned water park. Originally planned as a lively attraction, it opened briefly before shutting down due to a lack of funds, leaving behind a half-finished, forgotten site.
Today, it’s overgrown yet eerily beautiful, with moss-covered slides, a giant dragon sculpture, and crumbling pools. It feels straight out of a dystopian novel and is a dream spot for photographers or anyone who loves offbeat places.
The park was once sealed off, with guards stopping visitors, but it’s now accessible with a newly built walkway around the site. No more sneaking in under fences, sorry.
Entrance is technically free, though locals will often “charge” a small fee for parking your scooter or entering the grounds. It’s only a couple of euros, so it’s best to pay and enjoy the experience hassle-free.
Evening: Dragon Boat Ride And Local Food Tour
Time | 2–3 hours
Cost | Around 900k VND (Approx. 30 €)
Finish your final day with something special: a trip down the Perfume River with a dragon boat ride. These traditional boats offer a relaxing way to see Hue from the water, especially as the sun sets. Many tours also include live traditional music, adding a magical cultural experience to your evening.
Afterwards, explore some of Hue’s local cuisine on a guided food tour or self-guided street food crawl. Must-tries include bánh bèo (steamed rice cakes), nem lụi (grilled pork skewers), and sweet chè desserts. This combination of scenic river views and delicious food makes for a perfect, leisurely end to your two-day itinerary.
Must Do: The Hải Vân Pass
If you’re heading from Hue to Hoi An (or vice versa), I highly recommend taking the Hải Vân Pass. This 21-kilometre stretch of road is one of the most famous in Southeast Asia, winding between the Truong Son Mountains and the South China Sea. Think coastal cliffs, dense jungle, and sweeping ocean views as far as you can see.
The journey takes just a day with plenty of scenic stops along the way, like the historic Hải Vân Gate, the Marble Mountains, and many more.
The best way to experience the pass is by renting a scooter and driving yourself. This gives you complete flexibility, and there’s nothing like the sense of freedom that comes from riding through those mountain curves. Most rental companies let you pick up a bike in one city and drop it off in the other, since the route is so popular.
If you’re not comfortable driving, an easy rider tour is the perfect alternative. A local drives you while you ride pillion, stopping at highlights along the way. It’s a fun and stress-free option. And if motorbikes really aren’t your thing, you can also book a private car or join a shuttle that makes photo stops.
Where to Stay in Hue
Most travellers stay near the Perfume River, where you’ll find budget hostels, boutique hotels, and plenty of restaurants within walking distance. For a quieter vibe, look for guesthouses in the countryside surrounding the city. Hue is very affordable, so you can easily find comfortable stays without stretching your budget.
Here are some places I recommend:
Luxury: La Vela Hue Hotel
If you’re looking for a touch of comfort, La Vela Hue Hotel is a great choice. It’s set a little further out from the city centre, but that means you get much more for your money, with spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and excellent service. The hotel also offers a free shuttle into town, so you can easily explore Hue without worrying about transport.
Amenities | 3 swimming pools, free WiFi, spa and wellness centre, bar, fitness centre, 3 restaurants
Price | From £110 per night
Mid-Range: The Orchid Premium Hotel
For something central, The Orchid Premium Hotel is a fantastic option. It’s right in the heart of Hue, just steps from the Perfume River and plenty of restaurants. Rooms are modern and comfortable, the staff are known for being incredibly welcoming, and the location makes it perfect if you want to be close to all the action.
Amenities | Rooftop swimming pool, restaurant, free WiFi, free breakfast, central location
Price | From £40 per night
Budget: New World Hotel
New World Hotel offers excellent value for budget-conscious travellers seeking comfort and convenience. Located approximately a 16-minute walk from the city centre, the hotel provides easy access to local attractions while offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle.
Enjoy the indoor swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary breakfast. The friendly staff are known for their warm hospitality, ensuring a pleasant stay. With its combination of affordability and quality service, New World Hotel Hue is a great choice for those looking to explore the city without breaking the bank.
Amenities | Free WiFi, free breakfast, indoor swimming pool, central location, private, family and dorm rooms available
Price | From £4 per night (dorms) to £14 per night (privates)
Practical Information for Visiting Hue
How to Get to Hue
Hue is well-connected by bus, train, and plane. The train ride from Da Nang is particularly scenic, running along the coastline and through lush hills. Buses are frequent between major cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Hoi An, while Phu Bai Airport (just outside Hue) has daily flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Getting Around Hue
Hue is compact, and many of the main sights are close together, making cycling or walking easy options. For longer distances, Grab (the local version of Uber) is widely available and cheap. If you’re confident on two wheels, renting a scooter is the most flexible way to explore both the city and the tombs outside it.
Important: Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is always important, but especially so if you plan on renting and driving your own scooter. Scooters are one of the best ways to explore Vietnam, but accidents do happen.
I used SafetyWing’s Essential plan throughout my entire time in Southeast Asia, and it’s perfect for backpackers. It covers medical emergencies, lost luggage, and trip delays almost anywhere in the world.
For more information on their coverage, you can check out the Essential Plan here. If you’re travelling long-term or working remotely, their Complete Plan offers extra coverage tailored to digital nomads.
Entrance Fees, Dress Codes and Etiquette
Most major attractions charge entrance fees, with combo tickets available for the Citadel and tombs. Payment is usually cash only, so carry enough VND. When visiting temples and tombs, dress respectfully (cover shoulders and knees) and remove shoes when required. A light scarf or sarong is handy to carry for this.
FAQs about Visiting Hue
Is Hue worth visiting for 1 day?
Yes, you can see the Imperial City and one or two tombs in a day, but it will feel rushed. Two days give you a much more relaxed experience.
What should I wear when visiting temples and tombs?
Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Lightweight trousers or long skirts with a t-shirt work perfectly. A scarf or shawl is useful if you’re in shorts.
Is it easy to get around Hue without a tour?
Definitely. You can walk, cycle, or Grab your way around most sites. Tours are great for convenience and background info, but independent travel here is very doable.
The Wrap: Best Things to do in Hue
Hue might be smaller and quieter than Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, but its mix of history, culture, and offbeat adventures makes it a truly memorable stop in Vietnam. With so many different things to do in Hue, from wandering the majestic Imperial City and exploring royal tombs to cycling through peaceful countryside and visiting the abandoned water park, you definitely won’t be bored.
Spending 2 days in Hue gives you enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed, while a little extra time lets you uncover even more hidden gems. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or photographer, Hue rewards curiosity and slow exploration.
