Things to do in Hue

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All about Hue

When to visit

For the most comfortable temperatures, visit Hue between January and April—though you’re still likely to encounter some daytime drizzle, you’ll avoid the worst of the humidity. Hue Festival, one of Vietnam’s biggest and boldest celebrations, takes place biennially in April and sees the town come to life with art, performances, and traditional Vietnamese cultural expressions.

Getting around

Hue’s small size means it’s easy to explore on foot. However, if you’re looking to explore further afield, you can hire a bicycle or a scooter—certainly the most popular mode of transport in Vietnam. The city also has an extensive bus network, which only runs between early morning and evening. Cyclos are a must-try mode of transport—these three-wheeled bike cabs date back to the 20th century.

Travelers tips

Once you’ve satisfied your appetite for history, enjoy Hue’s natural landscapes. Nestled between Hue and the world-famous Hai Van Pass, you’ll find Lang Co Beach, unanimously hailed as one of Vietnam’s best beaches. White sands, blue waters, and lush green forest combine for a picture-perfect setting, while the Lap An Lagoon behind the beach draws a wide variety of birdlife.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hue, Vietnam worth visiting?

Yes, Hue is a must-visit place in central Vietnam. It’s home to the UNESCO-listed Hue Citadel (Da Noi) and the tombs of three famous Vietnamese emperors. It’s also worth visiting for its famous dish bun bo hue (beef soup), and is close to famous natural attractions such as Lang Co Beach and the Hai Van Pass.

What is Hue, Vietnam famous for?

Hue is most famous for the imperial Hue Citadel (Da Noi), a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back hundreds of years. It’s also renowned for the grand tombs of Vietnamese emperors such as Tu Duc, Minh Mang, and Khai Dinh, as well as the Perfume River—so-called because of the fragrant flowers that fall into its water.

How many days do I need in Hue, Vietnam?

Two days in Hue gives you enough time to experience all the top attractions in the Ancient Capital of Vietnam. You’ll have a chance to explore Hue Citadel (Da Noi) and the Forbidden Purple City; take a boat ride down the fragrant Perfume River (Song Huong River); and tick off the seven-story Thien Mu Pagoda.

How should I spend a day in Hue?

Spend the morning exploring the UNESCO-listed Hue Citadel (Da Noi) before taking a traditional cyclo to further afield attractions such as the Thien Mu Pagoda and the Minh Mang tomb. Then, sample signature street food such as bun bo hue (beef soup) before floating down the Perfume River on a dragon boat at sunset.

What are the best outdoor activities in Hue?

The most popular outdoor activity in Hue is traversing the Hai Van Pass on a motorbike tour—the 12-mile (20-kilometer) stretch is hailed as one of the most scenic in the world and offers views of Lang Co Beach. You can also go hiking in Bach Ma National Park, home to the 4,757-foot (1,450-meter) White Horse Mountain.

What kind of food can you eat in Hue?

Hue’s most famous dish is bun bo hue, a hearty beef noodle soup with added spice. Other signature typical street foods include bun thit nuong (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles and herbs) and banh beo (steamed rice cakes with various toppings). You can also try va tron, a fig salad that was prepared for royalty.

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