Hue Imperial Walking Tour: Small Group Heritage Exploration
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the rich history and majestic architecture of Hue's Imperial City with our captivating small group walking tour. Begin your journey at Toa Kham Boat Station or your hotel, where our knowledgeable guide will lead you through Thuong Tu Entrance into the ancient Citadel. Admire iconic landmarks such as the Nine Holy Cannons, Phoenix Tower, and Flag Tower before delving into the heart of the Imperial City. Wander through the Supreme Harmony Palace, Hue Forbidden City, and other royal residences, gaining insights into Vietnam's royal past. Conclude your enlightening tour at the Museum of Antiquities, leaving with a deep appreciation for Hue's cultural heritage.
Available options
Hue Imperial Walking Tour: Small Group Heritage Exploration
What's included
Knowledgeable English speaking guide
Bottled drinking Water
Detailed itinerary
1
Our guide will meet you at the meeting point: Toa Kham Boat station, Le Loi str, Hue city. Or at your hotel if it is on the way to the Imperial Citadel ( discuss when booking). Then we will start the Hue Imperial walking tour.
2
Stop 2
We will walk to Thuong Tu Entrance to get to the Imperial Citadel. Go into The Citadel, you will see Nine Holy Cannons, Phoenix Tower and the Flag Tower.
Start to do a walking tour inside the Hue Imperial City. You will visit the Supreme Harmony Palace (Thai Hoa Palace), Hue Forbidden City, The To Temple, Hien Lam Cac, Cuu Dinh, Queen’s Mother Residences, Dien Tho Palace and Truong Sanh Place, Co Ha Royal Garden and Duyet Thi Duong Royal Theater.
Finally, your Hue Imperial City walking tour will finish at the Museum of Antiquities.
3
Good bye and see you again! End of the tour!
What's not included
Entrance Fee The Citadel
Personal Expense
Available languages
Guide guide
VI
EN
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Our guide will meet you at the meeting point: Toa Kham Boat station, Le Loi str, Hue city. Or at your hotel if it is on the way to the Imperial Citadel
About Hue
Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is renowned for its historic monuments, royal tombs, and beautiful architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam's imperial past with its well-preserved citadel, palaces, and temples.
Top Attractions
Imperial City
The Imperial City is a walled fortress and palace in the former capital of Vietnam. It was the seat of Nguyen Dynasty emperors and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate (around 150,000 VND for entrance)
Thien Mu Pagoda
Thien Mu Pagoda is an iconic Buddhist pagoda overlooking the Perfume River. It is one of the most beautiful and historic pagodas in Vietnam.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Tomb of Khai Dinh
The Tomb of Khai Dinh is the final resting place of Emperor Khai Dinh, the twelfth emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty. It is known for its unique blend of Vietnamese and European architecture.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (around 100,000 VND for entrance)
Dong Ba Market
Dong Ba Market is the largest and oldest market in Hue, offering a wide variety of local products, including food, textiles, and souvenirs.
Market
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for items
Perfume River
The Perfume River is a scenic river that flows through Hue, known for its beautiful views and cultural significance. It is a popular spot for boat tours and leisurely walks along the riverbank.
Nature
Varies by activity
Low to moderate (boat tours around 100,000 VND)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bun Bo Hue
A spicy beef noodle soup with a rich, flavorful broth made from pork, beef, and lemongrass. It is typically served with rice vermicelli, slices of beef, and pork, and various herbs and vegetables.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains beef and pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Banh Khoai
A crispy, savory pancake made from rice flour, turmeric, and water. It is filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, and served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Snack/Dinner
Contains shrimp and pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Nem Lui
Grilled minced pork skewers wrapped in fresh herbs and served with a peanut hoisin sauce. The pork is marinated in a mixture of fish sauce, garlic, and lemongrass before being grilled.
Snack/Appetizer
Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Banh Beo
Steamed rice cakes topped with shrimp, scallions, and crispy pork rinds. They are served in small dishes and eaten with a small spoon, accompanied by a fish sauce-based dipping sauce.
Snack/Appetizer
Contains shrimp and pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Bach Ma National Park
Boat tours on the Perfume River
Water activities at Lang Co Beach
Sunbathing and swimming at Lang Co Beach
Visiting spas and wellness centers in Hue
Exploring the Imperial City and its historical sites
Visiting local markets and shopping streets
Attending traditional performances and festivals
Best Time to Visit
February to August
The best time to visit Hue is during the dry season when the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
20°C to 33°C
68°F to 91°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Vietnamese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Hue is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it is important to take standard precautions to protect yourself and your belongings, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding isolated areas, and keeping valuables secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable taxi companies or app-based services, such as Grab or Mai Linh
- • Bargain for better prices and be cautious when using ATMs or making purchases with credit cards
Getting there
By air
- Phu Bai International Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Hue Railway Station
By bus
Hue Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are affordable and convenient for getting around Hue. The system includes routes to major tourist sites like the Imperial City and Thien Mu Pagoda.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab, Mai Linh
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Hue University Area
An Cuu Island
Day trips
Tam Giang Lagoon
15 km from Hue • Half day to full day
Tam Giang Lagoon is a scenic and tranquil destination located just a short drive from Hue. It is the largest lagoon in Southeast Asia, offering beautiful views, peaceful boat rides, and a variety of water activities.
Vinh Moc Tunnels
25 km from Hue • Half day
The Vinh Moc Tunnels are a network of underground tunnels located near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in central Vietnam. They were used by local residents during the Vietnam War to escape the bombing and shelling by American forces.
Bach Ma National Park
40 km from Hue • Full day
Bach Ma National Park is a stunning and biodiverse destination located just a short drive from Hue. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including rare and endangered species, as well as beautiful waterfalls, lakes, and hiking trails.
Festivals
Hue Festival • Biennial, typically held in April or May
Hue Traditional Boat Racing Festival • Annually, typically held in May or June
Hue Poetry Festival • Annually, typically held in August
Pro tips
- Visit the Imperial City early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat
- Try the local street food, such as bun bo Hue and banh khoai, for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
- Take a boat tour on the Perfume River for a unique and scenic perspective of the city
- Hire a local guide or join a tour to learn more about the history and culture of Hue and the Nguyen Dynasty
- Explore the local markets, such as Dong Ba Market, for a glimpse into the daily life and culture of the city
$25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
