Things to do in Hue

Thị Thanh Hiền

From Thị Thanh Hiền's guidebook

About 15 minutes’ drive from our Airbnb, Khai Định Tomb is a deeply meaningful and breathtaking imperial site—built over 11 years as the final resting place of Emperor Khải Định, it uniquely blends traditional Vietnamese design with European artistic influences, reflecting a pivotal moment in Vietnam’s history and offering intricate mosaics and architecture that can only be appreciated in person.

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

The tomb was built between 1920 and 1931. It is located on top of the Chau E Mountains, 10km of Hue. Located in a vast expanse of wilderness, Khai Dinh tomb looks like a magnificent palace perched on the slope of a limestone mountain. It is an accessible by climbing 109 stone steps. Unlike the construction materials used for the other tomb, Khai Dinh mausoleum was built with modern materials such as steel and reinforced concrete. The peculiar feature of the tomb is the magnificent porcelain decorations on the walls, columns and ceilings

Nghia

From Nghia's guidebook

🎟 Entrance Fee: 150,000 VND per adult | 30,000 VND per child • Khai Dinh Tomb – A blend of Eastern and Western architecture, this imperial tomb is the most elaborate of the Nguyễn Dynasty. Adorned with intricate mosaics and grand interiors, it showcases a fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French influences.

Nghia

From Nghia's guidebook

🎟️ 150,000 VND (Adults) • Children (7-12 years old): 30,000 VND • Children under 7: Free • Tự Đức Tomb is one of the most beautiful royal tombs in Huế, Vietnam, built between 1864 and 1867 as Emperor Tự Đức’s resting place. Surrounded by serene lakes and lush greenery, it reflects traditional Vietnamese architecture and poetic landscapes.

Thị Thanh Hiền

From Thị Thanh Hiền's guidebook

Just 5 minutes from our Airbnb, Lăng Tự Đức invites you into a dreamy, poetic world of lotus ponds, quiet pine forests, and the timeless beauty of Vietnam’s imperial past.

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

The Tu Duc Royal Tomb in Hue, Vietnam, the approximate location of the tomb is one of several Royal Tombs in the outskirts of the former Imperial Capital. Was built between 1864 and 1867, and was designed as a tribute to the fourth Nguyen Emperor’s long and somewhat sad life. The imperial tomb of Tu Duc is considered to be the most beautiful Imperial tomb of every Hue. This tomb set in a beautiful natural and bathed by a Lake, 6 km outside of Hue, was used by the Emperor Tu Duc in life as Summer Palace and spiritual retreat

Lucy

From Lucy's guidebook

The Imperial City is a walled enclosure within the citadelof the city of Huế, the former imperial capital of Vietnam during the Nguyễn dynasty. It contains the palaces that housed the imperial family, as well as shrines, gardens, and villas for mandarins. Constructed in 1803 under Emperor Gia Long as a new capital, it mostly served a ceremonial function during the French colonial period. After the end of the monarchy in 1945, it suffered heavy damage and neglect during the Indochina Wars through the 1980s. The Imperial City was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 and is undergoing restoration.

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

Hue Citadel Hue has chosen to be the capital city of the Southern Kingdom by all Nguyen Lords and officially became the capital under Tay Son’reign. For approximately 400 years, Hue has become a great landscape and architectural site. Hue’ royal complex has been officially recognized by the UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Situated on the Northern bank of the Perfume River, with an area of 500 ha and a system of three circles of ramparts, namely from outside to inside: Kinh Thanh (Capital Citadel), Hoang Thanh (Royal Citadel) and Tu Cam Thanh (Forbidden Citadel). Kinh Thanh Hue (Hue Capital Citadel): Resumed in 1805, during the reign of Emperor Gia Long, this structure was completed in 1832 under the sovereignty of Emperor Ming Mang. Kings during Nguyen time in power planned to erect ramparts, palaces and constructional works of royal. Kinh Thanh is still original with nearly 140 small and large constructions. This Citadel is a remarkable piece of architecture. Square in shape, 10 km in circumference, 6 m high, 21 m thick with 10 entrances, and this structure has an additional gate connecting the Tran Binh Bastion called the Thai Binh Mon. On the top of the walls that surround it, 24 bastions are established for defensive purposes.

Anh

From Anh's guidebook

The Imperial City of Hue was once an enormous complex full of all the executive and bureaucracy you would expect from a country’s capital. It was enclosed within a square fortress (also known as the Hue Citadel), with each of the four walls about 2 kilometres long and a wide moat on the outside. All through this city were temples, palaces, offices, gardens, and residences. The most important bit was in the middle. It was called the Purple Forbidden City and it was where the emperor and his closest confidants lived and worked. Once, it would have been inaccessible to most people. Now, of course, we can all walk through it and see what remains.

Nghia

From Nghia's guidebook

🎟️ Free • Thiên Mụ Pagoda is a historic Buddhist temple in Huế, Vietnam, overlooking the Perfume River. Built in 1601, it is famous for its seven-story Phước Duyên Tower, ancient statues, and peaceful atmosphere. The pagoda is a symbol of Huế and an important spiritual site.

Anh

From Anh's guidebook

Built on a small hill overlooking the Song Huong (Perfume River), 4km southwest of the Citadel, this seven-storey pagoda is an icon of Vietnam and as potent a symbol of Hue as the Citadel.

Thị Thanh Hiền

From Thị Thanh Hiền's guidebook

Only 10 minutes from our Airbnb, Thiên Mụ Pagoda stands gracefully above the Hương River, offering timeless architecture, sacred history, and a peaceful atmosphere that has made it one of Huế’s most iconic spiritual landmarks.

Mina

From Mina's guidebook

Tu Hieu Pagoda is a historic Buddhist temple in Hue, Vietnam, best known as the place where Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh entered monkhood. Nestled in a serene pine forest, it offers a peaceful retreat for meditation and reflection. The pagoda also holds unique historical significance as a former place of refuge for thái giám (eunuchs) of the Nguyen dynasty, who sought spiritual solace in their later years. Visitors can admire its traditional architecture, observe the tranquil daily life of monks, and experience the deep spiritual heritage of Vietnamese Buddhism. Entry is free, making it an accessible and meaningful stop just a short drive from Hue’s city center.

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

Nestled in a pine forest, this popular pagoda was built in 1843 and later co-opted by eunuchs from the Citadel. Today 70 monks reside at Tu Hieu; they welcome visitors to the twin temples (one dedicated to Cong Duc, the other to Buddha). Listen to their chanting daily at 4.30am, 10am, noon, 4pm and 7pm. Tu Hieu Pagoda is about 5km from the centre of Hue, on the way to the tomb of Tu Duc. Tu Hieu is associated with Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh, who studied at the monastery in the 1940s, but lived in exile for more than 40 years and was only permitted to return to Vietnam in 2005

Nghia

From Nghia's guidebook

🎟 Entrance Fee: Free • Từ Hiếu Pagoda – A tranquil Buddhist temple nestled in a pine forest, known for its serene atmosphere and historical significance. It is the resting place of royal eunuchs and a retreat for meditation and spiritual reflection.

Nghia

From Nghia's guidebook

Phu Cam Cathedral is a prominent Catholic church in Hue, Vietnam, designed by architect Ngo Viet Thu. Located on Phu Cam Hill, it features modern Roman-style architecture with twin bell towers and a grand facade. The church is a peaceful place for worship and a cultural landmark of the city.

Phuong-Thao

From Phuong-Thao's guidebook

Roman Catholic cathedral - one of the biggest churches in the city. Only 2 mins away from the house. The interior is stunning - a must see for any architecture fan

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

Phu Cam main Cathedral is situated at Phuoc Vinh, Hue City. The Cathedral was built with modern architecture, designed by the architect Ngo Viet Duc. In early 1963, the construction of the Cathedral was built. To 1967 only the Saint Palace was built and then to 1965, the Cathedral was basically completed .Phu Cam cathedral was built by new concept of physical structure. Supporting pillars were concreted closely attached to the walls and gradually and supplely bended ahead. The three supporting pillars at each of four corners stretch out and create a fairly large space to embrace the whole of Saint Palace and Saint Altar

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

Although small, the lesser-visited Ho Chi Minh Museum is a local cultural landmark. It remembers the late leader’s visit to the city and has a display of photos and documents related to his time in Hue. Additionally, there are a few of Ho Chi Minh’s personal artefacts on display too. In my opinion, this is only really worth a visit if you have ample time in the city; if time is short, save the museums for a different destination in Vietnam.

Vĩnh Khâm

From Vĩnh Khâm's guidebook

DMZ loves you and celebrates times of joy with you and your loved ones. From the holy spirit and atmosphere of Christmas eve or the exciting fast past night of New Years eve. Local people as well foreign tourists come together and share a great experience not only in these times of celebration but at any time of the year. Sharing a cold beer, a glass of warm wine, a game of billiards or leaving a memorable statement on our walls, are just a few of the great experiences one receives at the DMZ Bar.

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

This bar is located on the major restaurant and hotel street in Hue, which is closed to two of the main riverfront hotels. DMZ, a casual place having a pool table offers a great choice of Vietnamese and Italian food

F75 Homestay

From F75 Homestay's guidebook

It's convenient with young people to drink, play billard and enjoy nightlife in Hue city

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

Large trattoria with a decent line-up of Italian favourites (pasta, calzoni, pizzas and seafood), a choice of beers and a palatable Sicilian house wine.

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

Ancient Hue Restaurant occupies a spacious two-storey wooden house dating back to the 1800s, offering authentic royal cuisine which made Hue a culinary hotspot of Vietnam, along with local artwork, and traditional dance performances. Set along Kim Long Street, the restaurant is surrounded by an impressive landscaped garden and lake while its indoor dining sections are fitted with decorative items to resemble royal quarters of the Nguyen Dynasty, such as silk cushions, ceramic vases. There’s also an art gallery within the restaurant, which exhibits abstract paintings, traditional crafts, and ceramic works by local artists

Dzung

From Dzung's guidebook

French style restaurant in a nice and quiet place near the Citadel

Nghia

From Nghia's guidebook

A beloved local spot in Hue serving authentic central Vietnamese steamed rice cakes — banh beo, banh nam, and banh loc. Known for its rich flavors, homemade dipping sauce, and affordable prices. Cozy, no-frills, and always full of locals — a must-try for anyone wanting to taste real Hue cuisine.

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

Hanh Restaurant Hue specialises in nem lui, a regional dish that’s made of minced pork rolls wrapped in lemongrass, and served with rice paper, vegetables, and peanut sauce. Set along Pho Duc Chinh Street, this local establishment is a 10-minute drive from Hue Imperial City via Truong Tien Bridge. If you’re looking to some of Hue’s most popular dishes in a single sitting, its set menu comes highly recommended.

Huy

From Huy's guidebook

This place serves you with local cakes such as rice cakes (bánh nậm, bánh lọc,...), pan cakes, Vietnamese grilled sausages,...

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

Nina’s Café is a family-owned establishment that’s well frequented for its authentic yet affordable Vietnamese dishes. Signature dishes here include squid cooked with lemongrass and chili peppers , banana flower salad , and steamed rice cakes . Set menus , where diners can enjoy a choice of Hue specialities such as bun thit nuong (barbecued pork with rice noodles and greens), nem lui (pork wrapped in lemongrass) or mien xiao (fried noodles) as well as caramel pudding or ice-cream for dessert. Aside from its extensive food and beverage offerings, Nina’s Café also offers cooking classes and tours to iconic landmarks in Hue

Phuong-Thao

From Phuong-Thao's guidebook

#EATERY#VIETNAMESE #ENGLISHMENU Easy place to go with plenty of Vietnamese options - for when you want to take it easy. Foreigner-friendly

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

An authentic Japanese restaurant with tasteful furnishings including lanterns and calligraphy, and a winning menu with sushi, tempura and yakitori dishes. The air-conditioned interior is a calming haven away from Hue's increasingly busy streets.

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

Tucked away near a tangle of cheaper accommodation and travel agencies, Nook's breezy upstairs location is a good spot for well-executed Vietnamese dishes and Western comfort food like veggie burgers and toasted sandwiches. Top marks for the quirky decor, good music, and refreshing and rejuvenating fresh juices and smoothies.

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

Mandarin Café is a legendary establishment in Hue, where travellers can relax and enjoy cheap Vietnamese and western fare as well as refreshing fruit shakes and local coffee. Founded in 1990 by Mr. Cu, a local photographer, this restaurant is fitted with numerous portraits of the local lifestyle and iconic attractions, all of which are for sale. Food-wise, we highly recommend its signature fried noodle (with beef, pork, shrimp or vegetables) banh khoai with seafood (Vietnamese crepe), and banana pancake. Mandarin Café also has a tour booking desk, where you can arrange for city tours, boat trips, and car or motorcycle rental

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

Tropical Garden Restaurant is a popular stopover for tour buses in Hue, where travellers can enjoy a wide range of Vietnamese dishes and live music every night. Occupying a two-storey Vietnamese house along Chu Van An Street, the restaurant has plenty of communal tables within its indoor dining section and several thatched huts within its tropical garden. Standout dishes include nem lui (minced pork rolls wrapped in lemongrass, served with rice paper, fresh greens, and peanut sauce), banh beo (steamed rice cake), and fried crab. Tropical Garden Restaurant Hue is a 20-minute walk from Dong Ba Market via Truong Tien Bridge

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

With a laid-back vibe, this is our favourite of the cafes and restaurants along Pham Ngu Lao. Friendly service and Asian-chic decor combine with the best street-side tables in town, and food is a versatile mix of Western and Vietnamese favourites. Look forward to one of central Vietnam's best mojitos, too.

Soleil

From Soleil's guidebook

This pub serve both Western and Asian foods such as spaghetti, burgers, Vietnamese noodles, steaks etc. They often offer happy hour for beer and another drink. The staffs are friendly and fluent in English.

Nghia

From Nghia's guidebook

🎟️ Free • Vong Canh Hill is one of the most beautiful scenic spots in Hue, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Perfume River, lush forests, and ancient tombs. Located just a few kilometers from the city center, this peaceful hill is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy nature.

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

Vong Canh hill is 43 meters in height and located about 7km from the central area of Hue, with the foot lying next to flowing Huong River . This hill at first seems to be rather normal among many famous Hue attractions. Nevertheless, visitors should not miss this site because it is considered as the best spot to see a panoramic view of Huong River. This could easily be understood from its name: “Vọng” means observing, watching and “Cảnh” means scenes.

Phuong-Thao

From Phuong-Thao's guidebook

Save this for one afternoon/sunset. Stunning view of the river from the hill top. Pleasant walk with carefully paved pathway & scenic viewpoints. Lots of photo opts but also surprisingly peaceful.

Nghia

From Nghia's guidebook

🎟️ Adults: 150,000 VND • Children (7-12 years old): 30,000 VND • Children under 7: Free • Minh Mạng Tomb is a majestic royal mausoleum in Huế, Vietnam, constructed between 1840 and 1843 for Emperor Minh Mạng, the second ruler of the Nguyễn Dynasty. The tomb is renowned for its traditional Vietnamese architecture, harmonious layout, and serene natural surroundings, including lakes and pine forests.

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

The construction of the tomb of Minh Mang started in 1840 and was completed in 1843. It is located in an enclosed hilly area of 18ha in Cam Khe village, 12 km from the centre of Hue. Minh Mang tomb is a standard architectural complex consisting of 40 big and small constructions which include palaces, temple, pavilions, etc., designed on symmetric axis along the Dai Hong gate outside to the foot of La Thanh behind the Emperor’s tomb. Visit to Minh Mang tomb, tourist fancy that they are wandering in a world of painting, poetry and philosophy – besides the strictness, majesty and symmetry of the architectural constructions

Thanh

From Thanh's guidebook

Buy combo ticket save your moner if you also visit Citadel and Khai Dinh tomb. Its around 7 km from center, by bicycle or by car.

Nghia

From Nghia's guidebook

🎟 Entrance Fee: Free • Văn Thánh Huế – The Temple of Literature in Huế, dedicated to Confucius and scholars of the Nguyễn Dynasty. A peaceful site with ancient stone steles honoring successful imperial exam candidates.

ThanhLich

From ThanhLich's guidebook

Formerly, various Temple of Literature were built by the Nguyen Lords in the capital and moved to three different places: Trieu Son Village, Luong Quang Village and Long Ho Village. Characteristic: The Temple of Literature is a worship temple founded by the Nguyen Dynasty to dedicate to celebrated scholars of Confucianism. In 1808, Gia Long and his Imperial Court decided to choose a low hill beyond the Thien Mu Pagoda, on the left bank of the Perfume River, i.e. the current position, to be built a new imposing and striking Temple of Literature. The construction of the Temple of Literature was commenced on April 17th, 1808 and finished on November 12th, 1808.