Top 5 things to do in Hue

Hue is a city full of legends. The Nguyen Dynasty's Kings built their feudal capital along Hue's rich soil rivers and atop its wooded hills, but their imperial legacy is only one of many reasons for visiting. Hue's refined gastronomy is legendary, and its leafy roads are lined with mossy pagodas, art déco mansions, and eye-catching markets. The Perfume River runs through the entire scene, setting a languid pace that the rest of the city is content to follow.

Discover imperial Vietnam

Explore what remains of Vietnam's last royal dynastic family's 143-year reign. Uncover the Hue Citadel's palaces, pavilions, and theaters, and stop by the tombs of Emperors Tu Duc, Minh Mang, and Khai Dinh.

Relive colonial history

Visitors with an eye for architectural design will appreciate seeing what persists of French influence in Hue. Wander down Lê Loi street to see the art déco lines of La Residence Hotel and the majestic crimson structures of Quoc Hoc High School.

Discover the city's Buddhist origins

The tranquil mood of Hue is particularly apparent in its pagodas and monasteries. Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, with its unique seven-tiered tower, and Tu Hieu Monastery, where Thich Nhat Hanh spent his days as a neophyte monk.

Cycle through the paddy fields

Hue's picturesque streets and lush farmlands are a cyclist's dream. The road to the tile-roofed Thanh Toan Bridge is one of Hue's most scenic, passing vegetable farms, pedestrian bridges, and swarms of ducks.

Eat as if you're a king

In Hue, you're never far from a world-class supper. For a teaser, nose around Dong Ba Market's fluttering produce, then warm your stomach with Hue's beloved snacks, such as sweet-potato cake (bánh khoai) and water-fern cake (bánh bèo). Read more