Vietnam’s ancient capital of Hue offers excellent river experiences along the poetic Perfume River. The classic dragon boat tours connect you with must-see landmarks like the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and royal tombs, while giving you a local’s perspective of riverside life. I especially love the sunset cruises – they’re peaceful, reasonably priced at $25, and offer the best lighting for photos of the citadel.
For the best value, pick the full-day guided tours that combine boat rides with walking exploration of the Imperial City. The guides really know their history, and you’ll appreciate seeing both perspectives – from water and land.
Ready to explore Hue’s waterways? Check out our favorite boat tours below.
Key Points
- Hue offers a variety of scenic cruises along the Perfume River, including the popular 2-hour sunset cruise priced at $25.64 per person.
- Luxury tours to the Imperial City are available for €56.63, providing a comprehensive experience of Hue’s historical sites and cultural heritage.
- Small group tours with a maximum of 12 participants are priced at $59.80, offering a more personalized and immersive experience.
- The Perfume River Dragon Boat Cruise is a 5-hour tour priced at $63.60, allowing visitors to explore the river’s natural beauty and local villages.
- Combination tours, such as the 3-hour cyclo ride with a dragon boat dinner experience, are available for $53.34, blending different modes of transportation and dining.
Hue: Visit Pagoda, Royal Tombs By Private Car & Dragon Boat
Visitors can explore Hue’s rich cultural heritage on this private tour that combines a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River with visits to iconic sites like the Thien Mu Pagoda, the tombs of Khai Dinh, Minh Mang, and Tu Duc, and the Hue Incense Village.
Priced from $30.77 per person, the 4-5 hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, and an English-speaking driver.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reviews praise the tour’s efficiency, comfortable vehicles, and knowledgeable staff.
An optional add-on to visit the Imperial City is available for $8.
Read our full review: Hue: Visit Pagoda, Royal Tombs By Private Car & Dragon Boat Review
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Hue : Royal Tombs- Thien Mu Pagoda- Dragon Boat Private Tour
This private tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore Hue’s rich cultural heritage by combining a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River with visits to iconic sites.
The highlights include the Thien Mu Pagoda, the Tomb of Minh Mang, and the Tomb of Khai Dinh, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
With a duration of 4 hours and a price from £23.20 per person, this tour provides excellent value.
Travelers can marvel at the stunning architecture, enjoy sightseeing and photography opportunities, and learn about the region’s history from an English-speaking guide.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient and stress-free experience.
Read our full review: Hue : Royal Tombs- Thien Mu Pagoda- Dragon Boat Private Tour Review
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Hue: Full-Day Guided Tour With Dragon Boat Ride From Hue
A full-day guided tour from Hue provides travelers with an immersive experience exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage. Priced from $32.78 per person, the 8-hour tour includes a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River, visits to the Thien Mu Pagoda, the Hue Imperial Citadel, and the tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Highlights include the blend of Western and Eastern architecture at Khai Dinh King’s Tomb and the majestic Minh Mang King’s Tomb. Travelers can also explore the Dong Ba Market and the Thuy Xuan Incense-making Village.
With an English-speaking guide, lunch, and all entrance fees included, this comprehensive tour offers an excellent value for visitors to Hue.
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Hue: Sunset Cruise on the Perfume River
For those seeking a more tranquil experience on the Perfume River, a sunset cruise offers a captivating alternative to the day’s activities.
This 2-hour tour allows visitors to witness the stunning transition from day to night, as the river is bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. Guests can relax on the boat while taking in the serene surroundings, including the picturesque riverbanks and traditional Vietnamese architecture.
With a rating of 4.9 from 141 reviews and a price starting at $25.64, this sunset cruise provides a peaceful and memorable way to explore Hue’s natural beauty.
The tour is available for individual or private bookings, making it suitable for various group sizes and preferences.
Read our full review: Hue: Sunset Cruise on the Perfume River Review
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Hue: Sunset Perfume River Cruise
Embarking on a sunset cruise along the serene Perfume River in Hue offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s tranquil waterways and cultural heritage.
Priced from $41.03 per person, this 2.5-hour cruise allows guests to explore daily life along the riverbanks, admire panoramic city views, and witness the sunset from the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and round-trip river cruise.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether seeking to discover garden houses, ancient pagodas, or local villages, this sunset perfume river cruise provides an immersive cultural experience in Hue.
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Hue Sunset: Dragon Boat Along Perfume River and Salt Coffee
Although the Perfume River is known for its serene sunset cruises, the Sunset Dragon Boat along Perfume River offers a more immersive cultural experience.
For $49.24 per person, this 4-hour private tour includes a dragon boat cruise, visits to historic sites like Thien Mu Pagoda, and the opportunity to try Hue’s signature dishes, including hot tofu and the unique salt coffee.
Guests can also relax and enjoy the scenic views, especially during the sunset at Ha Khe Hill.
With round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and free cancellation, this tour is a convenient and comprehensive way to explore Hue’s rich heritage along the Perfume River.
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Hue: Luxury Imperial City Full Day Trip With Dragon Boat
This full-day tour offers travelers an immersive exploration of Hue’s imperial heritage.
Guests will visit the iconic Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Forbidden City, the former home of Vietnam’s royal family.
The tour also includes a scenic dragon boat ride along the Perfume River.
Travelers can admire the city’s ancient architecture and learn about its rich history from a local guide.
The tour is available for pickup, and with its 5-star rating and 2 reviews, it provides a luxury experience to discover Hue’s imperial wonders.
Priced at €56.63 per person, this comprehensive tour is an excellent way to explore Hue’s captivating past.
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Hue Full-Day City Tour: Citadel, Pagoda & Dragon Boat
Travelers can explore the highlights of Hue city on this full-day tour, which includes a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River and visits to the iconic Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and other historic sites.
Priced at $59.80 per person, the small group tour is limited to 12 participants and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Throughout the day, travelers will enjoy scenic views, local cuisine, and cultural experiences like traditional craft demonstrations.
With pickup and drop-off at the same location, this comprehensive tour provides a hassle-free way to discover the rich history and beauty of Hue.
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Hue: Dragon Boat Cruise, Imperial Citadel, & Market Day Trip
A captivating day trip awaits travelers who embark on the Hue: Dragon Boat Cruise, Imperial Citadel, & Market adventure.
This 9-hour tour offers a comprehensive look at Hue’s cultural highlights, from a tranquil dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River to exploring the ancient Imperial Citadel.
Guests will also visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Dong Ba Market, and the royal tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a local guide, and lunch included, this tour provides exceptional value at just $57.44 per person.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether seeking history, culture, or local market experiences, this day trip is an excellent choice for visitors to Hue.
Read our full review: Hue: Dragon Boat Cruise, Imperial Citadel, & Market Day Trip Review
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Hue : Imperial Citadel – Thien Mu Pagoda – Dragon Boat Trip
Visitors to Hue can embark on a captivating tour that showcases the city’s imperial heritage and natural beauty.
The 4-hour excursion includes a 30-minute dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River to the historic Thien Mu Pagoda, followed by a 2-hour exploration of the impressive Imperial Citadel.
Participants can also opt to visit the lively Dong Ba Market.
The tour is priced at $29.54 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an English-speaking driver, are included.
Comfortable attire and sun protection are recommended for this immersive cultural experience.
Read our full review: Hue : Imperial Citadel – Thien Mu Pagoda – Dragon Boat Trip Review
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Hue City Tour: Explore All Day With Boat Ride and Lunch
This comprehensive Hue city tour offers a day-long immersion into the former imperial capital’s premier attractions. Priced from $59.50 per person, it features a guided exploration of the Flag Tower, Ngo Mon Gate, Nine Dynastic Urns, and the Forbidden Purple City.
Guests will also visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda by boat and enjoy a local lunch.
The tour further includes the Khai Dinh Tomb, blending East and West styles, as well as the Imperial City’s historical highlights like Thai Hoa Palace and Nine Holy Cannons.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a flexible and enriching way to discover Hue’s treasures.
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Hue Boat Tour On Perfume River
One of the most popular boat tours in Hue, Vietnam is the Perfume River Dragon Boat Cruise. Priced at $63.60 per person, this 5-hour tour includes a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River, visits to Thien Mu Pagoda and Hon Chen Temple, and a trip to Minh Mang Tomb.
While the tour covers key cultural sites, customer reviews have been mixed, with concerns about the tour duration, boat condition, and aggressive sales tactics. Given the 2/5 overall rating, this tour may not be the best choice for an optimal Hue boat experience.
Travelers should carefully consider the pros and cons before booking this particular Perfume River cruise.
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Private Dragon Boat, Thien Mu Pagoda, Royal Tomb Tour in Hue
For travelers seeking a more immersive and personalized Hue boat experience, the Private Dragon Boat, Thien Mu Pagoda, Royal Tomb Tour offers an enriching 4-hour journey.
Guests embark on a 30-minute dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, then visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and the majestic tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh.
The tour provides insights into Vietnamese royalty, Buddhism’s significance, and the historical importance of these sites.
Priced at $65.65 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, private transportation, and entry tickets, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance ensures flexibility for travelers.
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Hue: Private Dragon Boat, Thien Mu Pagoda, & Royal Tomb Tour
Embarking on a 4-hour excursion, the Hue: Private Dragon Boat, Thien Mu Pagoda, & Royal Tomb Tour offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of Hue’s iconic landmarks.
Priced at $65.65 per person, the tour includes a private dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, a guided tour of the Thien Mu Pagoda, and visits to the Tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh.
With a maximum group size of 8 participants, the tour provides an intimate and personalized experience.
Offering hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as English-speaking guides, the tour ensures a seamless and enriching experience.
Additional costs apply for entry tickets to the royal tombs, with combo passes available for those wishing to explore more of Hue’s historic sites.
Read our full review: Hue: Private Dragon Boat, Thien Mu Pagoda, & Royal Tomb Tour Review
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From Hue, Phong Nha : Ha Long Bay Day Cruise End at Ha Noi
Travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip can embark on the “From Hue, Phong Nha: Ha Long Bay Day Cruise End at Ha Noi” excursion.
This 13-hour journey departs from Hue, taking guests to the stunning Phong Nha region before culminating in a 5-star cruise on the iconic Ha Long Bay.
The cruise features a jacuzzi and a buffet lunch, providing a luxurious experience.
With pickup available, this tour offers a convenient way to explore the natural wonders of central Vietnam in a single day.
Priced at $55 per person, it’s an excellent value for the comprehensive itinerary.
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Hue: Private Dragon Boat, Thien Mu Pagoda & Minh Mang Tomb
Hue’s private dragon boat tour offers an immersive journey along the Perfume River, leading visitors to the city’s revered religious site, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the majestic Minh Mang Tomb.
Priced at SEK 643 per person, the 4.5-hour tour includes a 30-minute cruise to Thien Mu Pagoda and a 1.5-hour voyage to Minh Mang Tomb, with guided tours at each destination.
The itinerary also features stops at Khai Dinh Tomb and Thuy Tien Lake.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy and book with no upfront payment.
Included in the tour are the services of a guide, boat trip, transportation, travel insurance, and bottled water.
Read our full review: Hue: Private Dragon Boat, Thien Mu Pagoda & Minh Mang Tomb Review
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Hue: Cyclo Ride and Dragon Boat Dinner
For those seeking a more immersive cultural experience in Hue, the Cyclo Ride and Dragon Boat Dinner tour offers a captivating way to explore the city’s notable landmarks and savor its renowned cuisine.
Priced from $53.34 per person, this 3-hour activity takes travelers on a cyclo ride through Hue’s streets before a romantic dinner aboard a Dragon Boat on the Perfume River.
Along the way, guests will admire Hue’s nighttime scenery, learn about its culinary traditions, and release flower lanterns for peace.
With an English-speaking guide, hassle-free pickup, and free cancellation, this tour promises an unforgettable introduction to the charms of ancient Hue.
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Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Explore Thien Mu Pagoda & Royal Tombs
The Hue Dragon Boat Tour offers a captivating journey along the Perfume River, enabling visitors to explore the city’s illustrious past.
Priced at $104.63 per person, this 6-hour tour includes a guided exploration of Thien Mu Pagoda and the royal tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh.
Highlights include learning about Hue’s rich history and Vietnamese royal culture, as well as savoring a local Hue cuisine lunch.
The tour includes convenient transportation, entrance fees, and travel insurance.
While not suitable for certain groups, the Hue Dragon Boat Tour provides an immersive cultural experience for those seeking to uncover the city’s architectural and historical treasures.
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Halong Bay Discovery Day Cruise Trip From Ha Noi
Embarking on a Halong Bay Discovery Day Cruise from Hanoi offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site.
Priced at Kč 2,538 per person, the 8-hour tour includes roundtrip transportation, a guided cave exploration, kayaking, and a sunset party with Vietnamese refreshments.
Highlights include the Sung Sot Cave and Luon Cave, as well as the opportunity to climb Titov Island for panoramic views.
The cruise features a buffet lunch with seafood and Vietnamese cuisine, and optional relaxation activities like an outdoor Jacuzzi.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this day cruise provides a convenient and comprehensive Halong Bay experience from Hanoi.
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Hue: Dragon Boat Trip to Visit Thien Mu Pagoda & Royal Tombs
One of the top water activities in Hue is the Dragon Boat Trip to Visit Thien Mu Pagoda & Royal Tombs.
This full-day tour allows visitors to explore the city’s key historical and cultural sites by boat. The tour includes a visit to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and several royal tombs, including the Tomb of Tu Duc.
With a duration of 1 day and pickup available, this small-group tour is priced at $59.91. Travelers rate it highly, praising the beautiful scenery and informative guides.
For those interested in Hue’s rich history and architecture, this dragon boat excursion provides an immersive and convenient way to experience the city’s top attractions.
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From Hue: Full Day With Tombs, Citadel, Pagoda & Boat Trip
This full-day private tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Hue’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Highlights include a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, followed by a visit to the Hue Imperial Citadel.
After exploring Dong Ba Market, guests enjoy a local lunch.
In the afternoon, the tour visits the elaborate tombs of Khai Dinh and Minh Mang Kings.
Travelers also discover the villages known for making conical hats and incense sticks.
With round-trip hotel transfers, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees included, this comprehensive tour provides a convenient way to see Hue’s top sights in a single day.
Read our full review: From Hue: Full Day With Tombs, Citadel, Pagoda & Boat Trip Review
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Hue: Walking Tour to Thien Mu Pagoda and Back by Boat Trip
Travelers seeking an immersive Hue experience can embark on a captivating walking tour that culminates in a serene boat ride along the Perfume River.
This 3-hour adventure allows visitors to explore the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, sip tea in a traditional garden house, and enjoy the scenic river journey back. Priced from $34.88 per person, the tour is available in English and French, with private or small group options.
Highlights include the 400-year-old Thien Mu Pagoda, guided sightseeing, and photo opportunities.
Free cancellation, reserve now & pay later, and good customer reviews make this an attractive option for discovering Hue’s natural and cultural charms.
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From Hue: Hue Imperial City and Dragon Boat Tour
Hue’s Imperial City and Dragon Boat Tour invites visitors to enjoy the region’s rich history and scenic beauty. Priced from $65 per person, this private tour takes travelers on a 1-day journey through Hue’s captivating landmarks.
Highlights include a 20-minute dragon boat ride to Thien Mu Pagoda, a guided tour of the Imperial City, and visits to the Minh Mang and Khai Dinh Tombs.
Along the way, you will enjoy a local lunch, photo stops, and an opportunity to explore the Dong Ba Market.
With free cancellation and convenient hotel pickup, this tour provides an exceptional way to discover Hue’s imperial legacy and natural splendor.
Read our full review: From Hue: Hue Imperial City and Dragon Boat Tour Review
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Dragon Boat, Royal Tombs, Thien Mu Pagoda With Guide
One of the most popular day tours in Hue, Vietnam, is the dragon boat tour on the Perfume River, which allows visitors to explore the region’s royal tombs and the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda.
The 7-hour tour starts with a hotel pickup and a 30-minute cruise to Thien Mu Pagoda, followed by a guided tour.
Next, visitors take a 30-minute boat ride to Hon Chen Palace and a 20-minute cruise to the Tomb of Minh Mang.
The tour concludes with a visit to the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh.
The dragon boat tour is priced at €58.96 per person and includes an English-speaking guide, bottled water, and a private car drop-off at the hotel.
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Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Royal Tombs, Thien Mu Pagoda, Market
The Hue Dragon Boat Tour offers a captivating exploration of Hue’s rich cultural heritage. Priced from ₹3,974 per person, the 12-hour tour includes a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, the tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh, and the lively Dong Ba Market.
Visitors can enjoy the scenic Perfume River cruise, marvel at the majestic architecture, and enjoy the city’s historical significance. With free cancellation, reserve-now-pay-later options, and overall 5/5 customer ratings, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an authentic and memorable experience in Hue.
The tour includes transportation, an English-speaking driver, and basic amenities, making it a convenient and hassle-free way to explore the city’s top attractions.
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Recap
Hue offers a range of captivating cruises and boat tours that allow visitors to explore its historic landmarks, including the Thien Mu Pagoda, Royal Tombs, and the Perfume River. Whether it’s a private tour or a group excursion, these boat trips provide a unique and immersive way to experience the beauty and cultural heritage of this Vietnamese destination.