Located in the central region of Vietnam, Hue is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage city. The ancient capital boasts a rich history and long-standing traditions, characterized by its unique values and cultural identity. Hue is a province in the central coastal region of Vietnam, bordering Laos and the East Sea, and adjacent to Quang Nam, Da Nang, and Quang Tri. Hue is renowned for its poetic, tranquil, and gentle beauty. This charm entices anyone to visit Hue at least once in their lifetime.

Best Time to Visit Hue

Hue’s tourist season typically runs from November to April, with the most pleasant weather occurring in the first three to four months of the year when the climate is cool and refreshing. For travelers who love mountains, beaches, and watching sunrises and sunsets, the best time to visit is from June to August, when the sun is at its most beautiful, and the sea water is at its clearest.

Hue doesn’t have a distinct dry season but rather a rainy season and a less rainy season. The less rainy season, from March to August, is marked by hot and humid weather. The rainy season, from September to January, brings cooler temperatures. Especially from October to November, the region can experience heavy rains and storms that seem unending.

Spring in Hue lasts from late January to March, with beautiful weather featuring mild sunshine and occasional cool breezes. From April to July, during the hot summer, Hue becomes an ideal destination for beach lovers. The city in summer is adorned with the golden hue of flame trees, the pink of cassia javanica flowers, and the purple of crape myrtles. In August, Hue transitions into autumn, which is often considered the most beautiful season of the year.

Transportation options in Hue

  • Bicycle: Renting a bicycle is a popular way to explore Hue, especially for short distances and within the city center. It allows you to leisurely visit attractions like the Imperial City, pagodas, and local markets.
  • Motorbike: Renting a motorbike offers greater flexibility and is ideal for exploring not only the city but also nearby attractions like the Tombs of the Emperors and beaches. Many rental shops offer motorbikes for daily or weekly use.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Hue and are a convenient option for traveling longer distances or for those who prefer a more comfortable ride. They are also useful for airport transfers.
  • Boat: Hue is situated along the Perfume River, and taking a boat ride can be a scenic and enjoyable way to see the city from a different perspective. Boat tours often include visits to various historical sites along the river.

Attractions in Hue

  • Perfume River (Sông Hương): A scenic river that runs through Hue, offering boat tours and picturesque views of the city and surrounding landscapes
  • Hue Royal Antiquities Museum (Bảo Tàng Cổ Vật Huế): This museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the Nguyen Dynasty, including ceramics, costumes, and imperial treasures.
  • Dong Ba Market (Chợ Đông Ba): A bustling local market where you can experience Hue’s vibrant culture, shop for traditional goods, and sample local street food.
  • An Dinh Palace (Cung An Định): A lesser-known but beautifully restored palace with impressive architecture and historical significance.
  • Imperial City (Kinh Thành Huế): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Imperial City is a vast complex of palaces, temples, walls, and gates. It was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty and showcases traditional Vietnamese architecture and design.
  • Tombs of the Emperors: The royal tombs scattered around Hue are impressive architectural feats and are dedicated to the emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty.

  • An Dinh Palace (Cung An Định): A lesser-known but beautifully restored palace with impressive architecture and historical significance.
  • Dong Ba Market (Chợ Đông Ba): A bustling local market where you can experience Hue’s vibrant culture, shop for traditional goods, and sample local street food.
  • Thien Mu Pagoda (Chùa Thiên Mụ): Located on the banks of the Perfume River, this iconic seven-story pagoda is one of the oldest and most revered Buddhist temples in Vietnam. Its scenic location and historical significance make it a must-visit.
  • Hue Royal Antiquities Museum (Bảo Tàng Cổ Vật Huế): This museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the Nguyen Dynasty, including ceramics, costumes, and imperial treasures.
  • Dong Ba Market (Chợ Đông Ba): A bustling local market where you can experience Hue’s vibrant culture, shop for traditional goods and sample local street food.
  • Imperial Museum (Bảo Tàng Cung Đình Huế): Located within the Imperial City, this museum offers insights into the life and times of the Nguyen emperors through various artifacts and exhibits.

How to get to Hue

  • By Air: Hue Phu Bai Airport (HUI):The most convenient way to reach Hue is by flying into Hue Phu Bai Airport. It has domestic flights connecting major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle service to the city center.
  • By Train: Vietnam Railway:Hue is well-connected by train, with regular services from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. The train journey offers scenic views of the countryside and coastline. The main train station in Hue is located near the city center.
  • By Motorbike: Self-Drive Motorbike:For the adventurous, renting a motorbike and riding from nearby cities like Da Nang can be an exciting option. The route includes scenic landscapes and allows for a more flexible travel experience.
  • By Motorbike: Self-Drive Motorbike:For the adventurous, renting a motorbike and riding from nearby cities like Da Nang can be an exciting option. The route includes scenic landscapes and allows for a more flexible travel experience.

Must try food

  • Bún Bò Huế:A signature Hue dish, this spicy beef noodle soup features a rich, aromatic broth with beef slices, pork, and sometimes beef shank. It’s garnished with fresh herbs, lime, and chili.
  • Bánh Bèo:These are steamed rice cakes topped with crispy shallots, dried shrimp, and a drizzle of savory fish sauce. They are light, flavorful, and often served with a side of dipping sauce.
  • Bánh Nậm:Thin, square rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves, filled with a mixture of pork and shrimp. The combination of savory filling and the soft, chewy texture of the cake makes it a must-try.
  • Bánh Lọc:Chewy tapioca cakes wrapped in banana leaves, filled with minced pork and shrimp. These cakes have a unique texture and a delicious, savory flavor.
  • Bánh Xèo:Crispy, savory pancakes made with rice flour and turmeric, filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. They are typically served with lettuce leaves and herbs for wrapping.
  • Cơm Hến:A distinctive Hue dish featuring rice topped with tiny clams, shredded pork, peanuts, and crispy shallots, accompanied by a flavorful clam broth.
  • Bún Thịt Nướng:Grilled pork served over rice noodles with fresh herbs, vegetables, and a drizzle of fish sauce. It’s often garnished with crushed peanuts and fried shallots for added texture and flavor.