Hue City private Tour: Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda & Lunch
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Escape Da Nang for a full-day Hue tour exploring the Imperial City, Khai Dinh Tomb, and Thien Mu Pagoda, with private or small-group options.
Highlights:
- Explore the Imperial City, former home of 13 Nguyen Emperors.
- Admire East–West artistry at the unique Khai Dinh Royal Tomb.
- Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, the timeless symbol of Hue.
- Enjoy stunning Lang Co Bay views via the Hai Van Pass.
Available options
Hue City Full Day-Private Tour
Duration: 10 hours<br/>local food<br/>Hue city tour: pick up - move through Hai Van Tunnel-Thien Mu padoda- Have lunch- Hue imperial city- Khai Dinh tomb- Return to Danang<br/>bus or minivan: Depending on the number of guests each day, we will assign a suitable vehicle <br/>Pickup included
What's included
All entrance fees: Hue Citadel & Khai Dinh Tomb
Professional English-speaking tour guide
Chilled bottled water (1 bottle/pax)
Air-conditioned vehicle
travel insurance
Authentic Hue-style lunch
Detailed itinerary
1
8:00 a.m: Start your day trip with a convenient pickup from your hotel. We traverse the Hai Van Tunnel and pause at Lang Co Bay. Take a deep breath of sea air and capture the panoramic beauty of the lagoon - a dream for photography tours enthusiasts.
2
Stop 2
10:00 a.m: Step back in time as we enter the Hue Imperial City (The Citadel), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking through the majestic Noon Gate, your expert guide will breathe life into the stone walls with fascinating stories of the 13 Nguyen Dynasty Emperors. Discover the intricate architecture of the Thai Hoa Palace and the Forbidden Purple City, once the private sanctuary of the royal family. Learn about the royal secrets, court rituals, and the resilient history of this fortress.
3
Stop 3
12:00 p.m: Relish a traditional Hue lunch. We handpick local restaurants that serve authentic "royal-standard" dishes, ensuring a gastronomic memory of Central Vietnam.
4
Stop 4
13:00 p.m: We visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest and most sacred religious site in Hue. Perched gracefully on Ha Khe Hill overlooking the poetic Perfume River, its seven-story Phuoc Duyen tower stands as an eternal symbol of the city. Hear the legends of the "Celestial Lady" and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the temple grounds while watching the dragon boats glide by.
5
Stop 5
15:00 p.m: Experience the pinnacle of Nguyen Dynasty artistry at the Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh. Unlike any other, this tomb is a breathtaking fusion of Vietnamese tradition, French influence, and Oriental mysticism. Marvel at the world-renowned porcelain and glass masonry (mosaics) that cover the interior walls - a visual spectacle of craftsmanship that remains vibrant to this day.
6
Stop 6
17:00 p.m: Relax as our private drivers (for private option) or shuttle take you back to your hotel, finishing a full-day tour filled with history and culture.
What's not included
10% VAT (required for official invoices)
Tips for guide and driver (recommended)
Personal expenses not mentioned
Not wheelchair accessible
Stroller accessible
Available languages
Audio guide
VI
EN
Guide guide
VI
EN
Written guide
VI
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
You will receive a confirmation email immediately at the time of booking.
Adult pricing applies to travelers aged 10 - 99 years.
Child pricing applies to children aged 5 - 9 years.
Includes door-to-door airport & hotel transfers within Da Nang city center.
Please provide your WhatsApp/Kakaotalk/Line ID with your country code so our operator can confirm the exact pickup time and location.
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level for walking tours.
Please inform us of any specific dietary requirements (e.g., Vegetarian, Indian, Halal food) at the time of booking so we can arrange the best service for you.
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather (typhoon/storm), you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25-30 travelers (Group Tour) or maximum 12 travelers (Private Tour)
Free date changes are allowed at least 7 days before departure (limit: one change per booking).
Important notes
Our staff will contact you to reconfirm the pick-up time at your hotel in Da Nang via your contact phone number or email address
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
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
