Hue Imperial City Tour & Hai Van Pass : From Hoi An /Da Nang

Exploring the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of central Vietnam, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Discover the Imperial City of Hue, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and traverse the legendary Hai Van Pass, offering panoramic vistas. With round-trip transportation, a local lunch, and all entrance fees included, this full-day excursion from Hoi An or Da Nang provides a hassle-free way to take in the region’s cultural and natural wonders. The captivating itinerary and reasonable price point make this tour a compelling choice for travelers seeking an authentic Vietnamese experience.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Hoi An or Da Nang provides a comprehensive exploration of Hue’s Imperial City and the scenic Hai Van Pass.
• The tour is priced at $47.90 per person, includes transportation, lunch, entrance fees, and is limited to 12 participants with English-speaking guides.
• The itinerary features a 20-minute photo stop at Hai Van Pass, a 2-hour guided tour of the Imperial City, and visits to the Pagoda of the Celestial Lady and Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh.
• The tour offers high-quality transportation, an experienced guide, local lunch, and all entrance fees covered, with no additional out-of-pocket expenses.
• The Hai Van Pass provides breathtaking vistas of the East Sea, setting the tone for the cultural explorations in the historic city of Hue.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Hue’s Imperial City and the renowned Hai Van Pass. Priced from $47.90 per person, it’s a full-day adventure starting from Hoi An and Da Nang.

The tour is limited to 12 participants, with English-speaking guides. Highlights include photo stops at Hai Van Pass and Lap An Lagoon, a 2-hour guided tour of the Imperial City, and visits to Hue’s iconic pagoda and mausoleum.

Transportation, lunch, entrance fees, and bottled water are all included. With a flexible cancellation policy and no upfront payment required, this tour provides a seamless experience for travelers.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with an early morning pickup from Hoi An between 7:00 AM and 7:30 AM, or from Da Nang between 8:00 AM and 8:30 AM. The first stop is the iconic Hai Van Pass, where participants enjoy a 20-minute photo opportunity. Next, the group visits the Lap An Lagoon for a 20-minute break and more photos. The highlight of the day is a 2-hour guided tour of the Imperial City in Hue, followed by a 1-hour lunch break at a local restaurant. The tour continues with a 40-minute guided visit to the Pagoda of the Celestial Lady and a 1-hour tour of the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh before returning to the drop-off locations.

| Stops | Duration |

| — | — |

| Hai Van Pass | 20 minutes |

| Lap An Lagoon | 20 minutes |

| Imperial City, Hue | 2 hours |

| Lunch | 1 hour |

| Pagoda of the Celestial Lady | 40 minutes |

Tour Features

The tour includes high-quality transportation in a van and an experienced tour guide to lead the group throughout the day.

A local lunch is provided at a restaurant, along with bottled water. Hotel pickup is offered for those not staying in the city center.

All entrance fees, including the 350,000 VND per person for the Imperial City, are covered. Drinks during lunch are also included.

Gratuities are covered, so there are no additional out-of-pocket expenses during the tour.

Hải Vân Pass: A Scenic Detour

As the tour departs from the coastal city, travelers will be treated to a scenic detour along the Hải Vân Pass.

This winding mountain road offers breathtaking vistas of the East Sea and the surrounding lush hills. Drivers will make a 20-minute photo stop, allowing participants to capture the stunning panoramas and snap some memorable shots.

The pass is a popular spot for its natural beauty, with the towering Hải Vân Mountain serving as a dramatic backdrop.

This picturesque stop sets the tone for the rest of the day’s explorations in the historic city of Hue.

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Exploring the Imperial City of Hue

After the scenic stop at the Hải Vân Pass, the tour continues its journey to the historic city of Hue.

Guests embark on a 2-hour guided tour of the Imperial City, the former seat of the Nguyễn Dynasty. They explore the intricate structures, pagodas, and imperial tombs that showcase the grandeur of Vietnam’s last royal dynasty.

Visitors learn about the city’s rich history and cultural significance as they wander through the well-preserved monuments.

The tour then proceeds to a local restaurant for a 1-hour lunch break before visiting the Pagoda of the Celestial Lady and the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh.

Lunch Break at a Local Restaurant

Following the guided tour of the Imperial City, guests are treated to a 1-hour lunch break at a local restaurant. This is an opportunity to savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine and recharge before continuing the day’s exploration. The menu typically features a variety of regional specialties, including:

| Dish | Description | Price (VND) |

|——|————-|————-|

| Bún Chả | Grilled pork with vermicelli noodles | 80,000 |

| Cơm Hến | Aromatic rice with small clams | 70,000 |

| Bánh Bèo | Steamed savory cakes | 50,000 |

| Chè | Traditional Vietnamese dessert soup | 30,000 |

| Trà Đá | Iced Vietnamese tea | 20,000 |

Guests can enjoy a satisfying meal while taking in the local atmosphere and preparing for the next leg of the tour.

Visiting the Pagoda of the Celestial Lady

After the lunch break, the tour proceeds to the Pagoda of the Celestial Lady, also known as Thiên Mụ Pagoda.

This iconic Vietnamese Buddhist temple sits majestically on the banks of the Perfume River. Guests will enjoy a 40-minute guided tour of the complex, exploring its various halls, gardens, and historical relics.

The pagoda’s seven-story stupa, built in 1844, is a prominent feature and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The tour provides insight into the pagoda’s importance as a spiritual and cultural landmark in Hue’s rich heritage.

Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh

The Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh stands as a captivating blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles.

The Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh stands as a captivating blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles.

Situated atop a hillside, the mausoleum features a unique combination of traditional Vietnamese elements, including colorful tile mosaics, and European-inspired designs, such as Gothic-style arches.

Visitors can explore the elaborate interior, adorned with intricate carvings, inlaid mother-of-pearl, and exquisite artworks.

The guided tour provides insights into the life and reign of Emperor Khai Dinh, whose resting place is a testament to the artistic and cultural fusion that defined his era.

This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, you can book this tour for a private group. The tour operator offers flexible group sizes, allowing you to arrange a private experience tailored to your needs.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

According to the tour overview, the group size for this tour is limited to 12 participants. The tour is offered in an intimate setting, ensuring a personalized experience for all guests.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour guide is fluent in English, but the tour’s language options are not specified. Travelers should inquire about availability of guides proficient in other languages if needed, as the tour description only mentions English.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for This Tour?

There are no special discounts mentioned in the tour details. However, the tour offers flexible booking options with no upfront payment required. Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

While the tour’s itinerary is fixed, the operator may be able to accommodate additional stops or customize the experience for an extra fee. Clients should inquire about personalization options when booking to ensure their desired sites are included.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour through Hue’s Imperial City and the scenic Hai Van Pass offers an immersive experience into Vietnam’s rich history and natural beauty. With round-trip transportation, a delicious local lunch, and all entrance fees included, it’s a hassle-free way to explore Hue’s iconic landmarks like the Pagoda of the Celestial Lady and the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh, all at an affordable price of just $47.90 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here: