Hue: Private City Tour With Dragon Boat Ride and Lunch

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, beckons with its captivating history and cultural richness. This private city tour promises an immersive experience, allowing visitors to uncover the grandeur of the UNESCO-listed Imperial City, drift along the serene Perfume River, and indulge in local cuisine. From exploring royal tombs to discovering traditional crafts, the tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Hue’s enduring legacy. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an authentic Vietnamese adventure, this excursion promises to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• A private city tour in Hue, priced from €111.52 per person, offering a dragon boat ride, visits to 7 must-see sites, and a local lunch.
• Highlights include the scenic Perfume River cruise, UNESCO-listed Imperial City, and cultural experiences like visiting a conical hat maker.
• The tour provides an immersive experience showcasing Hue’s rich history, spiritual significance, and enduring artisanal traditions.
• Wheelchair accessibility and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance are offered for added convenience.
• The tour is led by an English-speaking guide and valid for 1 day, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of Hue’s key attractions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The private city tour in Hue offers an immersive experience, priced from €111.52 per person.

Enjoy Hue’s rich history and culture with a private city tour priced from €111.52 per person.

Guests can pay later and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The tour is valid for 1 day and features an English-speaking live guide, making it wheelchair accessible.

Customers will embark on a private group experience to discover Hue’s rich history and culture.

The tour includes a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River, visits to 7 must-see places, and a lunch at a popular local restaurant.

Tour Highlights

This private city tour allows guests to discover Hue’s rich history and culture.

Visitors will take a scenic dragon boat ride on the Perfume River to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda.

The tour includes visits to 7 must-see sites: the Imperial City, Citadel, Khai Dinh Tomb, Minh Mang Tomb, Dong Ba Market, and the traditional villages of Thuy Xuan and a conical hat maker.

Guests will enjoy local cuisine at a popular restaurant.

This comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience showcasing Hue’s UNESCO-recognized heritage, spiritual sites, and vibrant cultural traditions.

Key Attractions

Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-story structure built in 1601, stands as a symbol of Hue’s spiritual significance.

The UNESCO-listed Imperial City, with its original construction beginning in 1804 under Emperor Gia Long, offers a glimpse into the city’s imperial past.

Other key attractions include:

• Khai Dinh Tomb, blending Vietnamese and Western architectural styles, constructed between 1920-1931

• Minh Mang Tomb, noted for its classical Vietnamese design, integrating natural elements and traditional motifs

• Dong Ba Market, the largest traditional market established in the 19th century, a vibrant hub for local commerce

Cultural Experiences

Along With the key historical attractions, the private city tour also provides opportunities to explore Hue’s vibrant cultural experiences.

Visitors can visit a conical hat village and witness the intricate process of crafting the iconic Vietnamese hats.

They’ll also explore Thuy Xuan Incense village, one of Vietnam’s oldest craft villages, and learn about the traditional production of fragrant incense.

These cultural immersions offer a glimpse into the enduring artisanal traditions that have shaped Hue’s identity over centuries.

Engaging with the local craftspeople enriches the overall tour experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Imperial City

The Imperial City stands as the centerpiece of Hue’s rich history, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has borne witness to the reigns of Vietnam’s Nguyen dynasty.

This walled citadel was originally constructed in 1804 under Emperor Gia Long’s orders, spanning over 500 acres and featuring:

• Elaborate palaces, temples, and administrative buildings showcasing a blend of Vietnamese and French architectural styles

• The Forbidden Purple City, once reserved exclusively for the emperor and his family

• Carefully preserved artifacts and personal possessions that provide a glimpse into the Nguyen era’s opulence and grandeur

Exploring the Imperial City offers visitors a profound connection to Hue’s imperial legacy.

Exploring Hue’s Royal Tombs

Hue’s royal tombs stand as magnificent testaments to the Nguyen dynasty’s lasting legacy.

The tour visits two of the most renowned – Khai Dinh Tomb and Minh Mang Tomb. Khai Dinh Tomb blends Vietnamese and Western styles, constructed between 1920-1931.

Minh Mang Tomb exhibits classical Vietnamese design, integrating natural elements and traditional motifs.

Both offer a glimpse into the architectural prowess and cultural sophistication of the former emperors.

Exploring these regal structures provides a deeper appreciation for Hue’s rich history and the enduring imperial splendor that continues to captivate visitors today.

Navigating the Perfume River

As visitors board the private dragon boat, they embark on a serene journey along the Perfume River. This tranquil waterway offers a unique perspective on Hue’s history and culture.

A serene journey along the Perfume River, offering a unique perspective on Hue’s rich history and culture.

The dragon boat ride includes:

• Passing by the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a 7-story landmark that has stood since 1601.

• Observing the local life along the river’s edge, with fishermen and residents going about their daily activities.

• Appreciating the picturesque scenery, including the surrounding hills and lush greenery that inspired Hue’s reputation as the "Poetic City".

The Perfume River cruise provides a peaceful respite and a chance to witness Hue’s timeless charm.

Discovering Local Markets and Crafts

After experiencing the tranquility of the Perfume River, the tour moves on to explore Hue’s vibrant local markets and craft villages.

The first stop is Dong Ba Market, the largest traditional market in the city. Visitors can browse the bustling stalls, haggle with vendors, and sample local delicacies.

Next, the tour visits a conical hat village, showcasing the colorful, intricately patterned hats that are a symbol of Vietnamese culture.

Finally, the group explores Thuy Xuan Incense Village, one of Vietnam’s oldest craft communities, where traditional incense-making techniques have been passed down for generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit your preferences. The provider offers flexibility, allowing you to focus on the areas of Hue that interest you most within the overall itinerary.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Cultural Sites?

The tour recommends dressing modestly when visiting cultural sites. This typically means covering shoulders and knees to respect local customs. Light, breathable fabrics are best to stay comfortable in the warm climate.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Dragon Boat Ride?

There are no age restrictions for the dragon boat ride. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy the Perfume River cruise.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, you can take photographs during the tour. The tour overview states that it’s a private group experience, so you’re free to capture the sights and scenes as you explore Hue’s rich history and culture.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Included in the Price?

According to the tour overview, personal expenses and tips are not included in the tour price. However, the key inclusions like transportation, lunch, guide, and entrance fees are covered in the stated price.

The Sum Up

This private Hue city tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into the city’s rich heritage. Visitors can expect to explore iconic sites, enjoy local culture, and enjoy a scenic dragon boat ride along the Perfume River, all while savoring delicious regional cuisine. With an expert guide, this tour provides an in-depth and authentic experience of Hue’s vibrant history and traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: