Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, boasts a rich cultural heritage that captivates visitors. A private car and dragon boat cruise tour offers an immersive experience, allowing travelers to explore the city’s iconic landmarks. From the majestic Imperial Citadel to the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, this tour promises to unveil the essence of Hue’s history and traditions. With a customizable itinerary and accessible accommodations, the tour caters to diverse interests and needs. Embark on this journey to uncover the enchanting world of Hue’s past and present.
Key Points
- This 1-day private tour of Hue includes visits to the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the tombs of Minh Mang or Tu Duc, along with a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River.
- The tour is priced at £31.35 per person and lasts 7-8 hours, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
- Highlights of the tour include a 30-minute dragon boat cruise, a traditional Hue noodle soup lunch, and a visit to a local craft workshop.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible and can be customized based on individual preferences, with the option to choose between the tombs of Minh Mang or Tu Duc.
- The tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and lunch, while a driver-only option is also available for a lower price.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Hue City Tour offers a comprehensive 1-day exploration of the historic city by private car and dragon boat cruise. Priced at £31.35 per person, the tour lasts 7-8 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include visiting the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and Tombs of Minh Mang or Tu Duc. The tour includes a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, lunch at a local restaurant, and a visit to a traditional craft workshop.
Guests can opt for an English-speaking guide, and the itinerary is flexible to accommodate preferences. The tour is wheelchair accessible and can accommodate private groups.
Looking for more options in Thua Thien Hue Province? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Highlights
Beginning with the Imperial Citadel, the tour takes visitors through this historic walled fortress built between 1804-1833. Guests explore the Holy Cannons, Flag Tower, Supreme Harmony Palace, and Ruined Forbidden City. Next, they visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, a 17th-century Buddhist temple overlooking the Perfume River. A 30-minute dragon boat cruise on the river follows, leading to a local restaurant for a traditional Hue noodle soup lunch. The tour then visits the tombs of emperors Minh Mang or Tu Duc, and the architectural marvel of Khai Dinh’s tomb. Finally, a traditional craft workshop showcases incense and conical hats.
| Itinerary Highlights |
| — | — | — |
| Imperial Citadel | Thien Mu Pagoda | Dragon Boat Cruise |
| Tomb of Minh Mang or Tu Duc | Tomb of Khai Dinh | Traditional Crafts |
Tour Inclusions
This tour includes a private transfer with an air-conditioned vehicle.
Guests will enjoy a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River for about 20 minutes. An English-speaking tour guide is available, and entrance fees for sightseeing are included if a guided tour is selected.
Lunch featuring the famous Hue noodle soup, Bún Bò Huế, is provided. Drinks are available for purchase. Tips and gratuities are optional.
If the driver-only option is chosen, tickets, a guide, and meals aren’t included. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the itinerary can be customized to suit individual preferences.
Accessibility and Flexibility
The Hue City Tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors of all abilities to explore the historical sights.
The tour is a private group experience, providing flexibility to customize the itinerary based on preferences. Guests can choose to visit the Tomb of Minh Mang or the Tomb of Tu Duc, depending on their interests.
The tour schedule is also adjustable, subject to change to accommodate individual needs. With various pickup options in Hue, the tour caters to the convenience of travelers.
More Great Tours NearbyImperial Citadel: Exploring the Historic Fortress
The Imperial Citadel stands as a testament to Hue’s rich history, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of Vietnam’s imperial past.
The Imperial Citadel stands as a testament to Hue’s rich history, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of Vietnam’s imperial past.
Built between 1804-1833, this sprawling complex features impressive structures like the Holy Cannons, Flag Tower, Supreme Harmony Palace, and the Ruined Forbidden City.
Tourists can explore the intricate architecture, ornate designs, and strategic layout that once housed the Nguyen Dynasty‘s imperial power.
From ancient temples to imperial tombs, the Imperial Citadel provides a captivating insight into Hue’s cultural heritage and the country’s imperial legacy.
Thien Mu Pagoda: Iconic Riverside Temple
After exploring the majestic Imperial Citadel, the tour continues to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a renowned riverside temple overlooking the serene Perfume River.
The pagoda features:
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A 7-story stone tower, built in 1844, representing the seven reincarnations of Buddha.
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The historic Austin car that transported the Buddhist monk Thích Quảng Đức to his self-immolation in 1963.
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A beautiful garden and peaceful grounds for reflection.
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Panoramic views of the Perfume River and surrounding landscape.
This ancient temple offers a tranquil respite from the bustling city and provides insights into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
Perfume River Cruise: Relaxing on the Water
Next, the tour takes visitors on a serene dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River.
The 30-minute boat ride offers a chance to admire the scenic riverbanks and landmarks from a different perspective. Passengers can enjoy views of the Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic temple situated on the river’s edge.
The gentle rhythm of the boat’s movement and the tranquil ambiance of the river create a relaxing experience. This river cruise complements the tour’s exploration of Hue’s historic sites, providing a peaceful respite amidst the cultural discovery.
Tomb Visits: Discovering Hue’s Royal Heritage
As part of the Hue City Tour, visitors have the opportunity to explore the captivating tombs of Hue’s former emperors.
The tour may include visits to:
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The Tomb of Minh Mang (1841-1843), known for its grandeur and intricate architecture.
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The Tomb of Tu Duc (optional), a serene and picturesque complex that reflects the emperor’s personal taste.
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The Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh (1920-1931), a unique blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles.
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Other imperial tombs that offer a glimpse into Hue’s rich royal heritage and the lives of its past rulers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, participants can take photos during the tour. The tour allows for ample opportunities to capture the historical sites, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences. Photography is encouraged to help create lasting memories of the excursion.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, cool clothing suitable for warm weather. Visitors should avoid shorts, tank tops, or revealing attire out of respect for the cultural sites visited.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended. The itinerary is flexible and can be customized based on the traveler’s preferences. Additional activities or sites can be included for an extended tour at an additional cost.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour, though lunch is provided if you opt for the guided option. Any additional snacks or beverages you wish to have during the tour can be brought along.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges?
There are no additional fees or charges beyond the tour price. The inclusions cover private transfers, boat cruise, guide, entrance fees, and lunch. Drinks and tips are optional expenses that can be purchased separately during the tour.
The Sum Up
The Hue city tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the captivating imperial history and cultural treasures of this UNESCO World Heritage site. From the majestic Imperial Citadel to the serene Thien Mu Pagoda and the regal tombs, this private car and dragon boat cruise tour provides an unforgettable way to discover the essence of Hue. The tour’s flexibility and accessibility ensure an enjoyable day for all visitors.
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