Welcome Lykkers! Get ready to explore one of Vietnam's most captivating destinations. Hue, nestled along the Perfume River, is a city where history, architecture, and natural beauty blend into a charming and serene experience.

Once the capital of a united Vietnam, Hue is a destination full of cultural treasures, historical marvels, and peaceful landscapes.

Getting to Hue

By Plane

Hue's Phu Bai Airport is just 15 km southeast of the city. Direct flights are available daily from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Travel time is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes from Hanoi and 1 hour and 40 minutes from Ho Chi Minh City. Ticket prices start at around 500,000 VND.

By Train

Hue is on Vietnam's main north-south railway line. Trains from Hanoi take 13–14 hours, while those from Ho Chi Minh City take about 19–20 hours. Tickets range from 300,000 to 400,000 VND. It's an affordable and scenic choice, especially for routes like Da Nang to Hue, which takes only 2.5 hours.

By Bus

Long-distance buses connect Hue with both major cities. Travel time is comparable to the train, and prices are similar.

Exploring the City

Getting Around

Hue is easy to explore by bicycle, motorbike, or taxi. Many of the top attractions are close to the Perfume River and within cycling distance of one another. For trips to the tombs or pagodas in the countryside, taxis or private cars are more comfortable.

The Imperial City

Overview

At the heart of Hue lies the Imperial City, a 40-hectare complex surrounded by a 10-kilometer wall and a wide moat. Built in the early 19th century, it was modeled after the Forbidden City in Beijing and served as the royal seat of the Nguyen dynasty.

Main Entrance

The Ngo Mon Gate on the southern side is the main entrance. From here, visitors encounter the Thai Hoa Palace, used for ceremonial occasions.

Key Structures

Further inside are the Mandarins' Halls, the Emperor's Reading Hall, and the Royal Theater. Though many original buildings were lost in conflicts, several have been carefully restored.

Temples and Gardens

Notable features include The Mieu Temple in the southwest and To Mieu Temple in the northeast. Visitors can also stroll through Co Ha Garden and Thieu Phuong Garden, tranquil spaces offering glimpses into the past.

Visitor Information

• Hours: 6:30–17:30 (summer), 7:00–17:00 (winter)

• Open daily

• Entry: 200,000 VND (adults), 40,000 VND (children 80 cm–1.3 m), free for children under 80 cm

• Combo ticket with three tombs: 530,000 VND (adults), 100,000 VND (children)

• Location: 400 m northwest of the Perfume River

Thien Mu Pagoda

A Riverside Icon

Perched on a hill overlooking the Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda is the most iconic temple in Hue. With roots over 400 years old, it has evolved through centuries with additions and renovations.

Striking Architecture

The highlight is the Phuoc Duyen Tower, an octagonal structure rising 21 meters into the sky. Built in 1844, it offers an impressive view of the surroundings and is a popular photo spot.

Peaceful Setting

Visitors can reach the pagoda by boat or road, enjoying a serene journey either way.

Visitor Information

• Hours: 6:00–18:00

• Open daily

• Entry: Free

• Location: 4 km southwest of the Imperial City, along the Perfume River

Tomb of Khai Dinh

A Monument of Elegance

Located in the hills southwest of Hue, this majestic tomb was built for one of the Nguyen emperors. It took 11 years to complete and blends Vietnamese design with international influences.

Multi-Level Structure

The tomb rises across five levels, culminating in the Thien Dinh Palace. The structure features detailed carvings, ceramic mosaics, and vibrant decorations, making it one of the most artistic tombs in the area.

Interior Highlights

Inside, colorful mosaics and elaborate frescoes adorn the walls and ceiling. Below the main hall rests the emperor's final chamber.

Visitor Information

• Hours: 7:00–18:00

• Open daily

• Entry: 150,000 VND (adults), 30,000 VND (children 80 cm–1.3 m), free for children under 80 cm

• Combo ticket with Imperial City and other tombs: 530,000 VND (adults), 100,000 VND (children)

Conclusion: Why Hue is Worth Visiting

Hue offers a harmonious mix of majestic architecture, scenic landscapes, and calm riverfronts. Its historical significance is evident in every corner of the Imperial City and echoed in the serene pagodas and tombs nestled in the countryside. Lykkers looking for a journey that combines cultural exploration with peaceful surroundings will find Hue to be a deeply enriching destination.