From Hue: Hue Imperial City Day Trip With Lunch on Boat

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam’s former imperial capital on this comprehensive day trip from Hue. Discover the ornate Hue Citadel, explore the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum, and marvel at the serene Thien Mu Pagoda. Indulge in a delightful dragon boat lunch on the Perfume River before uncovering the grandeur of the Khai Dinh and Tu Duc Tombs. Along the way, gain insights into the region’s traditional crafts. This immersive experience offers a chance to…

Contents show

Key Points

This 7-hour tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Hue’s imperial heritage, including visits to the Hue Citadel, Hue Royal Antiquities Museum, and Thien Mu Pagoda.
Guests will enjoy a relaxing dragon boat lunch cruise on the scenic Perfume River, providing a unique perspective of the ancient city.
The tour includes visits to the elaborate Khai Dinh Tomb and the Incense & Conical Hat Village, offering insights into Vietnam’s rich cultural traditions.
An English-speaking guide will provide commentary and insights throughout the tour, enhancing the understanding of Hue’s imperial history and cultural significance.
The tour offers pickup from Meliá Vinpearl Hue or Hue Imperial City, ensuring a convenient and hassle-free experience for visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This day trip provides a rundown of Hue’s imperial heritage. It runs for 7 hours and costs from $46.68 per person.

Pickup is included from Meliá Vinpearl Hue or Hue Imperial City. The tour explores Hue Citadel, the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the tombs of Khai Dinh and Tu Duc.

Guests enjoy a dragon boat lunch on the Perfume River and visit Incense & Conical Hat Village.

A dragon boat lunch on the Perfume River and a visit to Incense & Conical Hat Village await guests.

With an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transport, entrance fees, and bottled water, this tour offers an immersive experience of Hue’s imperial past.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Hue Vietnam

Pickup and Departure

The tour begins with a pickup between 8:00 AM and 8:20 AM from either the Meliá Vinpearl Hue or Hue Imperial City hotels.

Once guests are aboard the high-quality, air-conditioned vehicle, the journey to Hue city commences. The English-speaking guide will be on hand to provide insights and information throughout the day.

The tour itinerary includes exploring the Hue Citadel, visiting the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum, and touring the Thien Mu Pagoda.

Guests can look forward to a delightful lunch on a dragon boat along the Perfume River, setting the stage for the rest of the day’s adventures.

Hue Citadel Exploration

After pickup, the tour group ventures to the captivating Hue Citadel, the former imperial capital and residence of the Nguyen Dynasty.

They explore the royal family’s living and working areas, marveling at the intricate architecture and historical significance.

The group visits the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum, learning about the powerful Nguyen Dynasty that ruled Vietnam for over 140 years.

Guests witness the grandeur and opulence that defined the Nguyen emperors, providing a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich past and the enduring legacy of its imperial heritage.

Hue Royal Antiquities Museum Visit

From the Hue Citadel, the tour group makes its way to the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum.

The museum houses an impressive collection showcasing the Nguyen Dynasty’s reign. Visitors can explore:

Elaborately decorated royal attire, jewelry, and accessories
Intricate imperial seals, royal documents, and historical artifacts
Informative exhibits detailing the dynasty’s traditions and cultural practices

The knowledgeable guide provides insights into the museum’s treasures, allowing the group to gain a deeper understanding of Hue’s regal past.

This stop offers a captivating glimpse into the opulent world of Vietnam’s last imperial family.

More Great Tours Nearby

Thien Mu Pagoda Tour

Next, the tour group heads to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue’s oldest and most iconic landmarks.

This historic Buddhist pagoda sits on the north bank of the Perfume River and dates back to 1601. Visitors can explore the serene grounds, admire the 7-story octagonal tower, and learn about the pagoda’s significant role in Vietnam’s history.

The guide provides insights into the pagoda’s architecture, symbolism, and the monks who once resided here.

This stop offers a glimpse into Hue’s rich cultural and religious heritage, complementing the earlier visit to the Imperial City.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Hue Vietnam

Perfume River Lunch Cruise

Following the visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, the tour group boards a traditional dragon boat for a leisurely lunch cruise along the serene Perfume River.

The slow-paced cruise offers a unique perspective of Hue’s scenic landscape, including:

Views of the iconic Truong Tien Bridge and the city’s ancient citadel walls
Observation of local fishermen and riverside activities
A delicious lunch featuring Hue’s renowned cuisine, served on the boat

This tranquil river experience provides a peaceful respite from the day’s explorations, allowing travelers to savor the ambiance of this historic waterway.

Khai Dinh Tomb Exploration

After the leisurely river cruise, the group heads to the Khai Dinh Tomb, a notable example of the Nguyen Dynasty’s architectural legacy. The tomb is known for its opulent design, blending Vietnamese and European elements. Visitors can explore the intricate carvings, ornate tiles, and grand staircase leading to the main hall. The tomb offers a glimpse into the extravagance of the Nguyen rulers.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Construction | Completed in 1931 |

| Style | Eclectic, mixing Vietnamese and European influences |

| Highlights | Ornate tiles, intricate carvings, grand staircase |

| Significance | Represents the wealth and luxury of the Nguyen Dynasty |

| Duration | Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to explore |

Incense & Conical Hat Village Discovery

After the visit to Khai Dinh Tomb, the group now heads to the Incense & Conical Hat Village.

This quaint village is known for its traditional craft of making incense and conical hats.

The travelers will:

Meet skilled artisans and watch them demonstrate the intricate process of crafting these iconic Vietnamese items
Browse the local shops, finding unique souvenirs and learning about the cultural significance of incense and conical hats
Gain a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage and skilled craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations in this charming village

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour does not allow guests to bring their own food and drinks. Lunch is provided on the dragon boat, and the tour includes 2 mini bottles of water per person. Personal expenses, such as additional drinks, are not included in the tour price.

Is the Tour Available on National Holidays?

The tour is available on national holidays, but there’s an additional charge of 50,000 VND per person. It’s important to check with the tour provider for any holiday-related surcharges before booking.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Dietary Meal?

Yes, the tour provider can accommodate special dietary requests, such as vegetarian or halal meals, with advance notice. Guests should inform the tour operator of any dietary requirements when booking the tour.

How Do I Know if the Tour Is Suitable for My Physical Abilities?

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women. Guests should be able to walk and climb stairs comfortably. Guests with mobility concerns should check with the tour provider before booking.

Can I Make Changes to the Pickup Location After Booking?

Yes, you can make changes to the pickup location after booking. The tour provider allows you to update the pickup address up to 24 hours before the tour starts without any additional fees.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive day trip from Hue offers a well-rounded exploration of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can admire the imperial architecture, learn about traditional crafts, and enjoy a peaceful river cruise with a delightful lunch. It’s an excellent way to experience the best of Hue’s attractions in a single day.