Exploring the imperial legacy of Hue is a captivating opportunity. This full-day excursion immerses visitors in the city’s storied past, from the serene Perfume River to the grand tombs of former emperors. Traversing historic sites like the Thien Mu Pagoda and the Hue Imperial Citadel, travelers uncover the region’s rich cultural tapestry. What awaits is a chance to appreciate Vietnam’s dynamic heritage and gain deeper insights into the nation’s formative years.
- Good To Know
- Tour Overview
- Itinerary Highlights
- Inclusions
- Important Information
- Booking Details
- Exploring Thien Mu Pagoda
- Discovering Hue Imperial Citadel
- Visiting Tomb Sites and Villages
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?
- Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?
- Do You Have Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
- How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Attraction Visit?
- Can I Take Photographs Inside the Temples?
- The Sum Up
- More Full-Day in Hue Vietnam
- More City Tours in Hue Vietnam
- More Tour Reviews in Hue Vietnam
- Still browsing? Here are more Hue Vietnam experiences we've covered recently
Good To Know

- This full-day guided tour explores Hue’s rich history and cultural heritage, including a dragon boat ride and visits to the Hue Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda.
- The tour is priced at $16.24 per person and includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, local lunch, and all entrance fees.
- The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues and requires cash payment for entry tickets (470,000 VND per person).
- Recommended items for the tour include a camera, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and preparation for varying weather conditions.
- The tour can be booked online with flexible scheduling and no upfront payment required, allowing for easy adjustments to travel plans.
Tour Overview

The Hue Imperial City Sightseeing Full-Day Trip offers a comprehensive exploration of Hue’s rich history and cultural heritage. Priced from $16.24 per person, this 8-hour tour provides an English-speaking guide and includes hotel pickup, a dragon boat ride, and visits to key sites like the Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue Imperial Citadel, Khai Dinh Tomb, and Minh Mang Tomb.
Lunch at a local restaurant is included, along with entrance fees and transportation. Travelers should come prepared with cash for admission, comfortable clothing, and sun protection. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues.
Booking is flexible, with a pay-later option available.
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Itinerary Highlights

This full-day tour kicks off with hotel pickup and a transfer to a dragon boat that takes visitors along the Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hue.
Next, the group explores the Hue Imperial Citadel, the former residence of the Nguyen Dynasty. After a local lunch, the tour visits the Khai Dinh Tomb, a mix of Western and Eastern architecture, and the Minh Mang Tomb, known for its majestic design.
The tour then explores nearby conical hat and incense stick villages before returning to the hotel.
Inclusions

A hotel pickup and drop-off in the city center are included in the tour price.
Plus, the tour provides an English-speaking guide to lead the way.
Enjoy a scenic dragon boat ride along the Perfume River and a local lunch with water and beverages.
Experience a serene dragon boat ride along the Perfume River and savor a local lunch with refreshing beverages.
All entrance fees to the sites are covered, including the Hue Imperial Citadel, Khai Dinh Tomb, and Minh Mang Tomb.
The tour also takes you to explore the conical hat and incense stick villages.
VAT and personal fees are included, making this a comprehensive and convenient sightseeing experience.
Important Information

Although the Hue Imperial City Sightseeing Trip is suitable for most travelers, it may not be the best option for individuals with mobility impairments. Visitors should bring cash for the entry ticket, which costs 470,000 VND per person. Plus, recommended items include a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. When visiting temples, it’s important to follow the dress code by covering armpits, knees, and midriffs.
| Requirement | Recommendation |
| — | — |
| Mobility | Not suitable for individuals with impairments |
| Attire | Cover armpits, knees, and midriff in temples |
| Essentials | Camera, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, cash for entry ticket |
More Great Tours NearbyBooking Details
Two booking options are available for the Hue Imperial City Sightseeing Trip.
Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later, or they can book and pay upfront.
The tour provider offers a flexible scheduling system, allowing guests to check availability for different start times and party sizes.
Booking a spot doesn’t require any upfront payment, giving travelers the flexibility to adjust their travel plans as needed.
The tour can be booked online, providing a convenient way to secure a spot on this immersive day trip through Hue’s historic imperial sites.
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Exploring Thien Mu Pagoda

The tour begins with a scenic boat ride along the Perfume River to reach the historic Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hue.
Visitors can explore the seven-story octagonal tower, a symbol of Hue, and learn about its rich history dating back to 1601.
The pagoda’s architecture features a blend of Vietnamese and Chinese influences, showcasing the region’s cultural diversity.
The pagoda’s architecture blends Vietnamese and Chinese influences, reflecting the region’s rich cultural diversity.
Guests have the opportunity to observe the daily practices of the resident monks and learn about their beliefs and traditions.
This stop provides a peaceful introduction to the imperial city’s spiritual heritage.
Discovering Hue Imperial Citadel

After the tranquil visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, the tour continues to the iconic Hue Imperial Citadel. This sprawling complex was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty, Vietnam’s last royal family. Guests will explore the ancient palaces, gates, and temples within the citadel walls. The highlight is the Forbidden Purple City, once off-limits to the public. A table provides key details:
| Highlight | Description |
| — | — |
| Imperial Citadel | Seat of Nguyen Dynasty |
| Forbidden Purple City | Once restricted public access |
| Palaces, Gates, Temples | Explore ancient structures |
| Nguyen Dynasty | Vietnam’s last royal family |
| UNESCO World Heritage Site | Recognized for cultural significance |
The Imperial Citadel offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past.
Visiting Tomb Sites and Villages

Next, the tour moves to the impressive tomb sites and traditional villages.
First, visitors explore the Khai Dinh Tomb, a blend of Western and Eastern architecture.
Visitors explore the Khai Dinh Tomb, a unique blend of Western and Eastern architectural elements.
Then, they visit the majestic Minh Mang Tomb.
After lunch, the tour ventures into the conical hat and incense stick villages, where travelers can observe the local artisans and purchase unique souvenirs.
Throughout the day, the English-speaking guide provides commentary, ensuring travelers gain a deeper understanding of Hue’s rich cultural heritage.
The tour ends with drop-off at the hotel, leaving guests with lasting memories of their immersive Hue experience.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, you can book this tour for a private group. The tour offers flexible options, allowing you to customize the itinerary and schedule based on your group’s preferences.
Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?
Yes, the tour can be customized. Customers can work with the tour operator to adjust the itinerary, activities, and timing to meet their specific interests and needs. This provides a personalized experience for the group.
Do You Have Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
There are no special discounts or package deals currently available for this tour. However, you can save by booking in advance online. The tour offers a flexible booking policy with no upfront payment required.
How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Attraction Visit?
The tour allocates about 1-2 hours for each main attraction visit, including the Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial Citadel, Khai Dinh Tomb, and Minh Mang Tomb. Visitors will also have time to explore the conical hat and incense stick villages.
Can I Take Photographs Inside the Temples?
Visitors are generally allowed to take photographs inside the temples, but they should follow the dress code and be respectful of the sacred nature of these sites. However, flash photography may be prohibited in some areas.
The Sum Up
This Hue Imperial City Sightseeing Full-Day Trip from Hue provides an immersive experience exploring Vietnam’s rich history and culture. Visitors will enjoy a scenic dragon boat ride, visit iconic sites like the Thien Mu Pagoda and Hue Imperial Citadel, and explore the Khai Dinh and Minh Mang Tombs. With a local lunch, all entrance fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off, it’s a convenient and memorable way to discover the highlights of Hue.
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