Hue

Planning Your Hue Trip: Essential Information

Vietnam Travel Basics

• Country: Vietnam
• Time Zone: GMT +7
• Language: Vietnamese
• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Hue Weather & Climate: When to Visit

Hue enjoys a tropical monsoon climate. January is the coolest month, averaging around 20°C (68°F). Rainfall is heaviest from September to January. The dry season runs from March to August, with July reaching up to 35°C (95°F). Typhoon season is during the rainy months, so keep an eye on weather forecasts.

Discovering Hue: City Overview

Welcome to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam! Sitting pretty on the Perfume River, Hue is a fascinating mix of ancient history and captivating culture. As the home of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945, the city’s packed with impressive architecture and history. Explore the UNESCO-listed Imperial City, with its palaces, temples, and pavilions. Don’t miss the tombs of emperors Minh Mang, Tu Duc, and Khai Dinh – each a reflection of their personality. And be sure to visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, perched on the Perfume River’s bank. Get ready to dive into the local culture and savor some amazing Hue cuisine!

Best Time to Visit Hue: Seasonal Breakdown

Here’s a breakdown to help you pick the best time to visit:

• February to April (Dry Season):
  • Pros: Great weather, clear skies, and fewer crowds than peak season. Ideal for exploring historical sites.
  • Cons: Prices might be a tad higher.
• May to August (Hot Season):
  • Pros: Fewer tourists and potential deals on hotels.
  • Cons: It can get HOT and humid!
• September to January (Rainy Season):
  • Pros: Lush scenery, fewer tourists, and cooler temperatures.
  • Cons: Be prepared for rain and the possibility of typhoons.

Getting to Hue & Visa Information

Your journey starts here! Flights, trains, and visa details explained:

• Flights: Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) is your gateway to Hue, with domestic flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. International flights usually connect through these cities. Check flight prices on Skyscanner.
• Trains: Hue is on the North-South Railway, a scenic way to travel between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Book train tickets on Baolau.
• Visa Requirements: Check the latest visa rules for Vietnam based on your nationality. Many can get a tourist visa on arrival or an e-visa. Always confirm with the Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
• Airport Transfers: Taxis and ride-hailing apps are easy to find at Phu Bai Airport. Pre-booking a private transfer is another option.

Hue Highlights: History & Culture

Fun Fact: The Perfume River’s Scent

The Perfume River gets its lovely name from the fragrant flowers that drop into it from upriver orchards each autumn, creating a subtle, natural perfume.

Famous Personalities from Hue

Ho Xuan Huong: A celebrated Vietnamese poet, known for her witty and feminist poems during the late Le dynasty.

Top 10 Hue Attractions: A Must-See List

1. Imperial City (Kinh Thanh Hue): Wander through this walled fortress, the former capital of the Nguyen Dynasty. Explore palaces, temples, and gardens.
   • Address: Tran Hung Dao Street, Hue
   • Book a guided tour of the Imperial City
2. Thien Mu Pagoda (Chùa Thiên Mụ): Visit this historic temple with its iconic seven-story pagoda overlooking the Perfume River.
   • Address: Hương Thọ, Thành phố Huế, Thừa Thiên Huế
3. Tomb of Minh Mang (Lăng Minh Mạng): An impressive tomb complex for Emperor Minh Mang, featuring gardens, lakes, and stunning architecture.
   • Address: Hương Thọ, Hương Trà, Thừa Thiên Huế
4. Tomb of Tu Duc (Lăng Tự Đức): A peaceful and beautiful tomb complex, reflecting the artistic side of Emperor Tu Duc.
   • Address: Thủy Xuân, Thành phố Huế, Thừa Thiên Huế
5. Tomb of Khai Dinh (Lăng Khải Định): A unique tomb blending Vietnamese and European styles, dedicated to Emperor Khai Dinh.
   • Address: Thủy Bằng, Hương Thủy, Thừa Thiên Huế
6. Perfume River (Sông Hương): Take a boat trip and soak in the scenic views of Hue’s waterfront.
   • Address: Runs through the city of Hue
7. Dong Ba Market (Chợ Đông Ba): A bustling market with everything from fresh food to souvenirs.
   • Address: Trần Hưng Đạo, Phú Hòa, Thành phố Huế, Thừa Thiên Huế
8. An Dinh Palace (Cung An Định): A stunning palace that showcases a mix of Vietnamese and European architecture.
   • Address: 97 Phan Đình Phùng, Phú Nhuận, Thành phố Huế, Thừa Thiên Huế
9. Ho Quyen Arena (Hổ Quyền): An ancient arena where elephants and tigers once battled in royal ceremonies.
   • Address: Trường Đá, Hương Hồ, Hương Trà, Thừa Thiên Huế
10. Truong Tien Bridge (Cầu Tràng Tiền): A historic bridge over the Perfume River, with great views of Hue.
    • Address: Lê Lợi, Vĩnh Ninh, Thành phố Huế, Thừa Thiên Huế

Hue’s Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path

• Thanh Toan Bridge (Chùa Cầu Ngói Thanh Toàn): A beautiful covered bridge, offering a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.
  • Address: Thanh Thủy Chánh, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Abandoned Water Park (Công Viên Nước Hồ Thuỷ Tiên): An eerie but intriguing abandoned water park, for adventurous souls.
  • Address: Hồ Thủy Tiên, Thủy Bằng, Hương Thủy, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Dieu De Pagoda (Chùa Diệu Đế): A peaceful pagoda, away from the crowds.
  • Address: 110 Bạch Đằng, Phú Cát, Thành phố Huế, Thừa Thiên Huế

Hue Festivals & Events: Immerse Yourself in Culture

• Hue Festival: A biennial festival celebrating traditional music, dance, and performances.
• Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese Lunar New Year): A time for celebrations with traditional customs, food, and cultural activities.

Day Trips from Hue: Exploring Beyond the City

• Bach Ma National Park: Hike in this mountainous national park (about 1.5-hour drive).
• Lang Co Beach: Relax on this beautiful beach and enjoy fresh seafood (about 1-hour drive).

Hue Photography: Insta-Worthy Spots

• Imperial City: Capture the palaces, temples, and courtyards.
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Photograph the iconic pagoda with the Perfume River.
• Tomb of Tu Duc: Capture the peaceful gardens and architecture.
• Truong Tien Bridge: Take panoramic shots of Hue from the bridge.
• Abandoned Water Park: Capture unusual photos of this unique abandoned park.

Where to Stay in Hue & Getting Around

Recommended Stay Duration

3-4 days is perfect for exploring Hue.

Top Hue Hotels (by Budget)

Budget-Friendly Hotels

• Hue Backpackers Home: 22 Nguyen Cong Tru, Hue. Check availability on Booking.com
• Stop and Go Hostel: 3/12 Hai Ba Trung, Hue
• Amy Hostel Hue: 25/9 Nguyen Cong Tru, Hue
• Freedom Hostel: 4/13 Chu Van An, Hue
• Hong Thien Ruby Hotel: 11/8 Nguyen Cong Tru, Hue

Mid-Range Hotels

• Romano Hotel: 15 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Hue
• Park View Hotel: 9 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue
• Midtown Hotel Hue: 29 Doi Cung, Hue
• Rosaleen Boutique Hotel: 79 Ben Nghe, Hue
• Senna Hue Hotel: 08 Nguyen Tri Phuong, Hue

Luxury Hotels

• Azerai La Residence Hue: 5 Le Loi Street, Hue
• Indochine Palace: 105A Hung Vuong Street, Hue
• Imperial Hotel Hue: 8 Hung Vuong Street, Hue
• Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel: 2 Le Loi, Hue
• Vedana Lagoon Resort & Spa: Zone 1, Phu Loc Town, Hue

Getting Around Hue: Transportation Options

• Taxis: Easy to find and affordable. Mai Linh and Vinasun are reliable.
• Motorbike Taxis (Xe Om): Good for short trips, but negotiate the price.
• Cyclos (Rickshaws): A relaxing way to see the Old Quarter. Agree on the price first.
• Bicycles: Rent a bike to explore at your own pace.
• Walking: The Old Quarter is perfect for walking.
• Buses: Available, but can be tricky for non-Vietnamese speakers.

Prepare for Your Hue Adventure: Packing & Tips

What to Pack for Hue

• Light, breathable clothing.
• Rain gear (especially in the rainy season).
• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
• Insect repellent.
• Modest clothing for temples.
• A universal adapter.

Useful Travel Apps for Hue

• Google Maps: Navigation and exploring.
• Grab: Ride-hailing app.
• ShopeeFood: Find restaurants and order food.
• Google Translate: Translate Vietnamese.

Hue: Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette

• Do:
  • Dress modestly at temples.
  • Remove shoes before entering temples or homes.
  • Ask permission before taking photos.
  • Learn basic Vietnamese phrases.
  • Respect local customs.
• Don’t:
  • Wear revealing clothing in public.
  • Touch someone’s head.
  • Point your feet at someone.
  • Litter.
  • Engage in public displays of affection.
• Scams to Avoid:
  • Be careful of overly friendly strangers.
  • Negotiate prices.
  • Avoid unlicensed taxis.
  • Be cautious of fake currency.

Hue Food, Fun & Finds: A Sensory Feast

Top Hue Restaurants

• Les Jardins de La Carambole: French cuisine in a historic setting. 46 Kim Long Street, Hue.
• Ancient Hue Restaurant: Traditional Hue cuisine. 104/47 Kim Long, Hue.
• Lac Thien Restaurant: Vegetarian dishes. 6 Dinh Tien Hoang, Hue.
• Hanh Restaurant: Affordable and delicious local dishes. 11 Pho Duc Chinh, Hue.

Must-Try Hue Dishes

• Bun Bo Hue: Spicy beef noodle soup.
• Banh Khoai: Crispy savory pancake.
• Banh Beo: Steamed rice cakes with shrimp powder.
• Com Hen: Rice with baby clams.

Hue Nightlife & Entertainment

• DMZ Bar: Popular bar with live music. 60 Le Loi, Hue.
• Brown Eyes Bar: Relaxed bar with good drinks. 56 Chu Van An, Hue.
• Gold 3 Club: Hue’s premier club. Nguyễn Huệ, Phú Nhuận, Thành phố Huế, Thừa Thiên Huế.

Hue Souvenirs & Shopping

• Conical Hats (Non La): Traditional Vietnamese hats.
• Silk Products: Scarves, clothing, and accessories.
• Lacquerware: Bowls, vases, and decorative items.
• Calligraphy: Custom calligraphy scrolls.