7 of the Best Things to do in Hue

Set on the banks of the Perfume River, Hue was once the nation’s imperial capital. Home to the ruling emperors and fashionable elite, this impressive city produced royal cuisines and set the pulse of the classical nation. 

Often times overlooked this sleepy town, is gaining traction with history-buffs and travellers seeking to get off the typical tourist trail in Vietnam. People describe Hue as a place filled with poetic beauty, a term I didn’t totally understand until visiting, but with the curving river, bamboo jungles and spiritual tombs, Hue is nothing less than magical. Here are 7 of the best things you must do in Hue. 

Things to do in Hue:

 

Marvel at the Khai Dinh Tomb

Heavily influenced by the French in Vietnam, Emperor Khai Dinh built his tomb to mimic it’s culture’s ornate style. A mix of Eastern and Western styles the Tomb of Khai Dinh is truly an impressive sight. Built into the steep hillside, the stark white and black exterior juxtaposes it’s colourful interior. 

TIP: in the late afternoon the sun streams through the large windows, making for an airy photo. 

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Versailles of Vietnam 🇻🇳 Emperor Khai Dinh’s tomb is unreal 😱✨ Ceramic designs line the walls and the famous nine dragon painting looms above. 🐉 every inch is covered in ornate and delicate design. Amazing!🥰

A post shared by Kelsey Lynn | Brand Design (@milesofsmiles._) on Sep 20, 2019 at 7:38am PDT

Explore the peaceful Ming Mang Tomb

One of the largest tombs in Hue, 44 structures are set on over 40 acres. Stroll through the peaceful grounds, admiring the enormous koi fish or expansive lotus pond. The stillness is astounding. Keep walking through a few gates and buildings for the most impressive buildings lie at the end of the 40 acres. 

TIP: Find a taxi driver who will take you to multiple tombs, discuss a set rate and they will wait for you at the entrance.

Traveling to Hoi An next? Check out everything you need to see there!

 

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Are you planning to move SE Asia?! ✈️🗺 I moved out here exactly FOUR years ago TODAY and wow that time has flown by! ⏳ I moved first to Thailand solo and hadn't ever been there before! Woahh was I nervoussss — but turned out to be an incredible life-changing adventure! SWIPE for my teary airport photo where I am so scared and so excited 🙈😱 – Thinking of doing the same? 😍 Drop your questions below, I’m happy to answer any of em’ ❤️

A post shared by Kelsey Lynn | Brand Design (@milesofsmiles._) on Sep 26, 2019 at 6:40am PDT

 

Wander the expansive Imperial Citadel

The moated ancient city is full of lush courtyards, gilded corridors, grand gates and impressive gardens. Much of the city has been destroyed over the years but restoration is currently underway over much of the grounds. You are free to wander around the huge complex from 8am – 5:30pm, though I think two hours is a good amount of time to budget for it!

 

TIP: if you plan of seeing the tombs buy a joint ticket — it’s much cheaper.

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If you have plans to ever check out #Huế, save this post!! 🗺🇻🇳 . – STAY: @pilgrimagevillage 🏠 – EAT : @thenookeatery (all meals), Madam Thu (lunch), Spice Viet (dinner)🥢 – DO: @hueinnsideout_cooking_class — Hue Night Market, motorbike to the beach – SEE: Minh Mang Tomb, Khai Dinh Tomb, Tu Duc tomb, Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial Citadel . – HOW TO GET THERE: 🚂Trains from Da Nang (3 hours 200K VND-ish), 🚘Taxi (2 hours 1M VND), ✈️Flights from major cities (2M+VND), Da Nang – Hue Flight w/ @haiauaviation . – IDEAL # OF DAYS: at least 3! . – GETTING AROUND: Rent a motorbike or use grab taxis to go everywhere. 🚘🛵 . – BUDGET FRIENDLY? 100% 🎉

A post shared by Kelsey Lynn | Brand Design (@milesofsmiles._) on Sep 18, 2019 at 7:32am PDT

 

Admire the Thien Mu Pagoda

The impressive Thien Mu pagoda is the oldest temple in Hue, and sits overlooking the Huong river. It is located on a large temple complex, with a few structures which house ancient relics and Buddhist symbols. This is also a perfect spot to catch the sunset!

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The imperial city of Hue is full of pagodas, tombs and palaces. It was once home to the royals of Vietnam and after visiting I can see why! Sitting on the banks of the Perfume River – the lush mountains, and proximity to the coast make it a win, win, win. – @lisacronk and I made a girls trip to Hue and visited this temple in the evening. We watched the sun go down over those iconic mountains and famous river. 🌅 Little boats whirred slowly past and local fishermen chatted in the distance. Truly an experience to remember! ✨💕 – Where would you choose to go in Vietnam for a gals (or guy) trip?!

A post shared by Kelsey Lynn | Brand Design (@milesofsmiles._) on Apr 3, 2019 at 7:07am PDT

Cook authentic Hue Dishes with Inn Side Out 

Hue cuisine boasts some of the tastiest dishes in Vietnam – though they are not simple! Book a cooking class with Phuong at her riverside home. Cook Hue specialities along with classic Vietnamese favourites. 

Devour Hue specialities:

For more Hue fare stop of Madam Thu located in the centre of town. Must-try’s here are:

Bánh khoáii: Vietnamese Tumeric pancake with pork (wrap these inside rice paper with herbs)

Nem lụi: Pork grilled on a lemongrass stick with peanut sauce

Bún thịt nướng: grilled meat with rice noodles and fresh herbs

Chả Giò: Hue style fried spring rolls

 

TIP: Craving a more ‘western’ inspired meal? Look no further than Nook Eatery, with a large menu you can stop in here for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! Located down a small alley it is somewhat hidden from sight. Keep an eye out for the lanterns outside. 

 

Where to next, Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City? I’ve got you covered for both!

 

Grab beers and souvenirs at the night market (Phố Đi Bộ Hue)

During the evenings this walking street is blocked off from cars. Shop for souvenirs, artisan jewellery or pick up some tasty snacks. When you are ready for a rest, cool off at one of the many open-air bars and grab a Hue, Huda beer. 

TIP: download the Grab App for cheap motorbike or car taxis in the city. 

 

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Looking for the perfect Vietnam Souvenir? Click here for the 50-page Vietnam Coloring Book I created! This hand-drawn book is full of illustrations, and fun facts about different places in Vietnam.