Hue is a heritage city and a cultural symbol of Vietnam. Consequently, it always holds a magical attraction for tourists from all over the world. A trip to Hue is not just a walk among ancient temples; furthermore, it is an experience of touching the depth of history and the slow pace of life in the ancient capital. In the following article, Laguna Lăng Cô will provide the most detailed Hue travel handbook to help you easily plan your upcoming journey.
Index
When is the best time for your Hue travel trip?
According to the experience of many travelers, the period from March to August is considered the “golden time” to start a Hue travel trip. This is because the ancient capital enters the dry season with clear blue skies and plenty of sunshine. Moreover, this weather is extremely convenient for checking in at the Imperial City or the royal tombs.
- From March to April: The weather is cool and pleasant. Therefore, this is the most ideal time to explore every corner of the city.
- From May to August: The sun is intense and it can be quite hot. However, it is a wonderful time to combine sightseeing with a beach vacation. Specifically, the crystal-clear blue water and brilliant sunrises at Lăng Cô or Thuận An will surely leave you in awe.
- From September to November: This period often brings heavy rain and storms. Nevertheless, watching the rain in Hue is also a poetic experience for romantic souls.
In addition, if you visit in spring, you will enjoy the chilly breeze of the new year. Alternatively, if you go in August, when Hue enters early autumn, you will fall in love with the gentle, poetic beauty of this heritage land as the weather begins to transition.
Transportation for your Hue travel journey
How to travel to Hue?
Depending on your departure point and personal plan, you can choose one of the following options to start your hue travel journey:
By Air
- Domestic travelers: All airlines operate direct flights to Phu Bai Airport. Flight time ranges from 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. Round-trip ticket prices are approximately VND 1,300,000 – 1,800,000, depending on the time of booking.
- International travelers: Most visitors choose to land at Da Nang International Airport (DAD). From there, you can experience one of the most beautiful coastal routes in Vietnam to Hue by limousine bus, train, or private car (around 2 hours of travel).
By Railway (Train)
This is a favorite option for travelers who wish to admire the majestic Hai Van Pass. Ticket prices range from VND 400,000 – 1,000,000, depending on the seat type.
By Coach & Self-driving Car
High-quality sleeper buses from nearby provinces to Hue are quite affordable, starting from VND 250,000 – 350,000 per trip, making them suitable for budget-conscious travelers.
Getting around on your Hue visit
To proactively explore every nook and cranny, you may consider the following options:
- Motorbike Rental: This is the most flexible and economical means of transport. With prices ranging from 100,000 – 150.000 VNĐ/day, you can freely roam the streets or visit tombs far from the center.
- Cyclo: A very “Hue-style” experience that is especially popular among international tourists. Sitting on a cyclo and leisurely admiring the Imperial City at prices from VND 50,000 – 150,000 is a wonderful way to feel the city’s slow rhythm of life.
- Taxi & Ride-hailing apps (Grab): Suitable for groups or families, ensuring comfort and safety regardless of Central Vietnam’s hot sun or drizzling rain.
Best Hotels & Resorts for your Hue trip
Choosing the right accommodation significantly determines your overall experience. Currently, Hue offers a wide variety of choices, from 5-star resorts to budget homestays.
Laguna Lăng Cô - A 5-Star Resort Paradise for Hue Travel
Located by Lăng Cô Bay, one of the most beautiful bays in the world, Laguna Lăng Cô offers a rare “all-in-one” experience. Specifically, we provide three world-class accommodation areas:
Banyan Tree Lăng Cô: A system of luxurious private pool villas with architecture inspired by the Hue royal court, offering a regal and sophisticated space.
Angsana Lăng Cô: A perfect blend of modernity and local identity, featuring a long, winding pool system right next to the white sandy beach.
Laguna Parkside Lăng Cô: An ideal choice for families with a row of villas located along a lush green golf course.
Furthermore, the difference of Laguna Lăng Cô also lies in the 18-hole golf course designed by legend Nick Faldo, along with beach entertainment activities, international standard spas, and high-end restaurants. Consequently, this is the perfect stop to elevate your Hue travel journey into a true luxury retreat.
Other Accommodation Options
Besides, if you prefer the city center, hotels like Azerai La Residence or Silk Path Grand Hue are excellent suggestions. Conversely, if you want to save money, homestays such as a-mâze house or Trầm Homestay will provide a close, friendly feeling of living with the locals.
Top Hue Travel Attractions to Visit
The ancient capital of Hue is not only a historical treasure with mossy architecture but also possesses poetic natural beauty. Below is a list of attractions you must visit:
Dong Ba Market
Dong Ba Market has long been a familiar name to both domestic and international travelers. Established in the late 19th century (1899), the market stretches from Gia Hoi Bridge to Truong Tien Bridge.
Here, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of Hue specialties or browse stalls selling fabrics, clothes, conical hats, Hue shrimp paste, and traditional cakes as souvenirs. In particular, you should visit the food area after 4:00 PM, when street vendors captivate visitors with authentic local flavors.
The Imperial City of Hue
The Imperial City of Hue served as the political center of the Nguyen Dynasty for 143 years. Passing through Ngo Mon Gate, you feel as though you are traveling back in time to the majestic royal palace. With more than 100 iconic architectural works such as Ngo Mon, Thai Hoa Palace, Dien Tho Residence, and The Mieu Temple, each site holds deep historical stories that fascinate every visitor.
Due to its vast area, you should start your visit early in the morning. Remember to bring hats and water, as the weather can be quite sunny. The entrance ticket currently costs around VND 200,000 per person. In addition, visitors can rent traditional Nhat Binh costumes for photography, recreating the ancient royal atmosphere.
Quoc Hoc Hue High School
Quoc Hoc Hue is the first secondary school in Hue, built in 1896 during the reign of King Thanh Thai. Located at 12 Le Loi Street, right in the city center, the school impresses visitors with its iconic red color and rows of ancient trees.
During your hue travel journey, you can leisurely stroll around the spacious campus, admire French colonial architecture, classroom corridors, and take memorable photos. The most suitable visiting times are around noon (11:30 AM) or after 5:00 PM when students leave school. The parking fee is approximately VND 5,000.
Perfume River
The Perfume River gently winds through mountains, villages, and Hue’s neighborhoods such as Kim Long, Vi Da, and Gia Hoi, carrying a subtle fragrance of grass and flowers. Taking a boat ride along the river is an unforgettable experience during hue travel.
At night, visitors can board dragon boats to enjoy Hue traditional music, a unique art form that combines royal court music and folk songs. The performance lasts about one hour, with ticket prices ranging from VND 100,000 – 150,000 per person, offering a distinctive cultural experience.
Vong Canh Hill
Located in the southwest of the city, Vong Canh Hill stands approximately 43 meters high. With a strategic location bordering the Perfume River on one side and lush green hills on the other, this site offers a breathtaking panoramic view. Furthermore, it has become a familiar stop in many Hue travel tours, especially when combined with visiting Tu Duc Tomb, Thieu Tri Tomb, and Thuy Xuan Incense Village.
In addition, the best time to visit Vong Canh Hill is during the late afternoon. At that moment, the sunset dyes the river in brilliant red hues while dragon boats glide quietly, creating a truly peaceful and poetic atmosphere.
Phu Cam Cathedral
Located on Doan Huu Trung Street, Phu Cam Cathedral is one of the most stunning religious landmarks in Hue. Since 1682, the church has undergone multiple renovations. Consequently, it now possesses a grand and majestic appearance. The architectural structure features a vast main sanctuary and two soaring bell towers.
Inside, the cathedral can accommodate up to 3,000 people. In addition, the interior space is remarkably airy and solemn. When visiting, tourists should dress modestly. Furthermore, please remain quiet to show respect for the sacred religious environment.
Thuy Xuan Incense Village
Located 7km from the center, Thuy Xuan Village is vibrant with “blooming” incense bouquets. Indeed, this is a popular check-in spot for any Hue travel itinerary. You can easily combine this visit with Vong Canh Hill and Tu Duc Tomb. Besides taking photos, tourists can chat with local artisans. Doing so helps you understand the traditional craft and the cultural life of Hue people.
Thien Mu Pagoda
Thien Mu Pagoda is a spiritual landmark you cannot miss. Specifically, the pagoda sits on Ha Khe Hill, about 5km from the Imperial City. Here, visitors can admire the 7-story Phuoc Duyen Tower. Also, you can visit Dai Hung Palace and stroll through the peaceful green gardens. Entry is free. However, visitors should dress modestly and maintain silence during their visit.
Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery
The monastery is located about 30km from Hue city center. Nestled by Truoi Lake, it is surrounded by lush green mountains. To reach the monastery, tourists must take a boat across the lake. Afterward, you need to climb 172 stone steps to reach the main gate. The architecture harmonizes perfectly with the natural landscape. Consequently, the main hall provides a deep sense of tranquility for every visitor.
What to eat during your Hue travel?
Cuisine is an unforgettable part of any Hue travel experience. In fact, Hue people believe that food must be both delicious and aesthetically pleasing. You should try signature dishes such as Bun Bo Hue, clam rice, and various traditional cakes. Additionally, do not forget to taste the famous Hue sweet soups.
Local Foodie Tips: Eat Like a True Hue Native: To truly experience the authentic flavors of Hue, you should prioritize small eateries hidden deep in narrow alleys or places with old, weathered signboards. In particular, look for eateries whose names begin with words like “Mụ,” “Mệ,” “O” or “Bé.” These are often run by native Hue locals, where family recipes have been passed down through generations, preserving rich and distinctive flavors.
Recommended “local-approved” places to eat in Hue:
- Bun bo Hue: Bun bo Me Keo (20 Bach Dang), Bun bo O Be (90 Bach Dang), Bun bo Ba Tuyet (47 Nguyen Cong Tru).
- Com hen / Bun hen: Com hen Hoa Dong (64 Kiet 7 Ung Binh), Com hen Ba Cam (49 Tung Thien Vuong).
- Banh beo, banh nam, banh loc: Banh beo Ba Do (8 Nguyen Binh Khiem), Banh beo Hue Xua (1 Nguyen Binh Khiem), Banh beo Ba Cu (23/177 Phan Dinh Phung).
- Banh khoai & nem lui: Quan Hanh (11–15 Pho Duc Chinh), Banh khoai Hong Mai (110 Dinh Tien Hoang).
- Che Hue: Che Hem (1/29 Hung Vuong), Che Mo Ton Dich (20 Dinh Tien Hoang).
What to buy as gifts for your Hue travel?
Besides enjoying the scenery and food, choosing a meaningful gift is essential. Hue souvenirs are often rustic and simple. However, they are incredibly sophisticated. Each gift carries the genuine affection of the local people.
Reputable shopping addresses in Hue:
- Sesame candy (Me xung): Thien Huong (20 Chi Lang), Nam Thuan (135 Huynh Thuc Khang).
- Royal tea (Tra Cung Dinh): Duc Phuong (24 Nguyen Hue), Nhat Da (18 Nguyen Hue).
- Sour shrimp paste (Mam tom chua): Co Ri (Dong Ba Market), Trong Tin (21 Dang Tran Con).
- Cajeput oil (Dau tram): Be Tho (15 Xuan 68), Dan Vien Thien An (Thuy Bang).
- General markets: Dong Ba Market (Tran Hung Dao Street), Ben Ngu Market (Phan Boi Chau Street).
Conclusion
In summary, Hue remains a “hidden gem” of Central Vietnam with its blend of past and present. From the quiet steps in the Imperial City to the relaxing moments at Laguna Lăng Cô, every second of your trip will be a memorable highlight.
We hope this guide provides all the necessary information for your Hue travel plans. If you are looking for a 5-star vacation combined with heritage discovery, let Laguna Lăng Cô be your companion on this journey!
