Things To Do
in Huế

Huế, Vietnam, is a historical city known for its rich cultural heritage and role as the former imperial capital of the Nguyen dynasty. Nestled along the banks of the Perfume River, it boasts stunning architecture, including ancient citadels and pagodas. The city is also famous for its traditional cuisine, which reflects the royal culinary history of Vietnam.

With its tranquil atmosphere, Huế is a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Imperial City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Imperial City (Đại Nội), exploring its vast grounds, palaces, and museums.

afternoon
:

Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most iconic Buddhist temples in Vietnam, located on the banks of the Perfume River.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Huế dinner at a local restaurant and take a boat ride on the Perfume River to experience the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Local Flavors
morning
:

Tour the Tombs of the Emperors, including the elaborate tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh and the serene tomb of Emperor Minh Mang.

afternoon
:

Visit the local Dong Ba Market for a taste of Huế's street food and shopping for local handicrafts.

evening
:

Explore the lively streets of Huế, stopping for dessert at a local cafe and enjoying traditional music performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Pho$1.50
Vietnamese Coffee$1.00
🍺Local Beer$1.00
🏨Budget Hotel Night$15
🚌Bus Ticket$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious and unique local cuisine.
  • Beautiful landscapes and tranquil riverside.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Traffic congestion in the city center.
  • Humidity can be uncomfortable during summer months.
  • "Xin chào" - Hello
  • "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
  • "Tôi không hiểu" - I don't understand
  • "Giúp tôi với" - Help me
  • "Xin lỗi" - Sorry

Places to Visit in Huế

Visit one of these nice places.

Imperial City

The historic center filled with grand architecture, courtyards, and picturesque views.

Thien Mu Pagoda

A beautiful seven-story pagoda that overlooks the Perfume River, perfect for sunset shots.

Tombs of the Emperors

A series of ornate royal tombs set in serene landscapes, ideal for capturing the essence of Huế.

Culinary Guide

Food in Huế

Huế is renowned for its unique cuisine, which features a blend of royal dishes and local street food, making it a culinary haven for visitors.

Huế Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bún bò Huế

A spicy beef noodle soup that is a signature dish of the region.

Must-Try!

Cơm hến

A rice dish served with baby clams, herbs, and peanuts.

Nem lụi

Grilled pork skewers served with rice paper and fresh vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Dong Ba Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, street food, and local handicrafts.

Street vendors along the Perfume River

Local vendors offering a variety of snacks and drinks, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Huế is tropical, characterized by a wet and dry season. The dry season lasts from March to August, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The wet season, from September to February, can bring heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures, especially in the winter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for temples and pagodas

Dress modestly and observe silence when visiting religious sites.

Politeness in greetings

A slight bow with a smile is customary when greeting locals.

Dining etiquette

It's polite to wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin.

Safety Guide

Safety

Huế is generally safe for tourists; however, it’s advisable to be cautious of petty crimes like pickpocketing in crowded areas. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Additionally, it’s best to avoid isolated areas after dark.

Tipping in Huế

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping customs

While tipping is not mandatory, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, some restaurants and shops accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Mild weather and blooming flowers make it a pleasant time for sightseeing.

Summer (June to August)

Hot and humid; ideal for enjoying riverside activities and water sports.

Autumn (September to November)

Cooler temperatures and less rain create perfect conditions for exploring the city.

Winter (December to February)

Cool and occasionally rainy; dress warmly but enjoy the quieter atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Huế at Night

Huế's nightlife is comparatively quiet, focusing more on cultural experiences rather than loud bars or clubs. Visitors can enjoy traditional music performances, relaxed riverside cafes, and some local bars offering live music. The atmosphere is generally family-friendly, with many places closing by midnight.

Hiking in Huế

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ba Na Hills

Located about 60 km from Huế, this area offers scenic hiking trails and stunning views, especially from the Golden Bridge.

Tam Giang Lagoon

A beautiful area for hiking and exploring the natural scenery, with opportunities for bird watching and photography.

Airports

How to reach Huế by plane.

Phu Bai International Airport (HUI)

Located about 15 km from the city center, it serves domestic flights and some international routes.

Getting Around

Walkability

Huế is quite walkable, with many attractions located close to each other. The city center features wide sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some attractions, like the Tombs of the Emperors, are located further out and may require biking or taking a taxi.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kinh

The majority ethnic group in Vietnam, making up most of the population in Huế.

Thái

A significant ethnic minority in the region, known for their rich cultural traditions and languages.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Widely loved in Huế, with local teams playing in various leagues.

Badminton

Popular among locals, with many parks and recreational areas dedicated to the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Huế can be congested, especially during peak hours. Motorbikes are the most common form of transportation, and while there are some taxis and ride-hailing services available, navigating can be challenging for newcomers. Public transportation options are limited, making walking or biking a preferable choice for tourists.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Huế.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it’s best to ask for specific dishes.

Gluten-free

Some traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free, but always confirm with the restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Huế are generally sufficient for basic needs, with several hospitals and clinics available. The largest facility is Hue Central Hospital, which offers a range of services. However, for more serious medical issues, it is recommended to seek treatment in larger cities like Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City.

Discover Vietnam

Read more in our Vietnam 2025 Travel Guide.

Vietnam Travel Guide