From Hue: Full Day With Tombs, Citadel, Pagoda & Boat Trip

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is a city steeped in history and cultural significance. Visitors can embark on a captivating full-day excursion that showcases the region’s most iconic landmarks and offers a glimpse into its rich heritage. From the serene Thien Mu Pagoda to the majestic Imperial City, the journey promises to be a truly immersive experience. Along the way, guests will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant Dong Ba Market, discover the regal tombs of Khai Dinh and Minh Mang, and even enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the Perfume River. With a professional guide to provide insight and context, this remarkable tour promises to leave a lasting impression on those who seek to uncover the captivating essence of Hue.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Hue Vietnam.

Key Points

• Explore Hue’s iconic landmarks, including the Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial City, and royal tombs, on a full-day private excursion from Hue.
• Experience a boat ride on the Perfume River and explore the local culture at the bustling Dong Ba Market.
• Visit the Khai Dinh and Minh Mang tombs to discover Vietnam’s imperial legacy and architectural wonders.
• Enjoy a guided tour of the Imperial City, the former home of the Nguyen Dynasty, and explore its grand palaces, temples, and gardens.
• Conclude the tour with a visit to the tranquil Thuy Bieu Village, where you can interact with friendly locals and experience Vietnam’s rural charm.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a full-day private excursion to explore Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. Priced from $129.58 per person, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Lasting one day, it’s available in English and French. Pickup and drop-off are provided in Hue’s city center.

Highlights include a boat ride on the Perfume River, visits to the Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial City, and royal tombs, as well as a stop at the bustling Dong Ba Market.

Lunch, entrance fees, transportation, and a professional guide are all included.

With an impressive 5/5 rating from customer reviews, this tour provides an efficient way to experience Hue’s top attractions in a single day.

Itinerary Highlights

A boat ride along the serene Perfume River kickstarts the tour, providing a tranquil approach to the Thien Mu Pagoda – Hue’s oldest and most iconic pagoda.

Visitors then explore the Imperial City, the former home of Vietnam’s last royal dynasty. A guided tour and free time allow discovery of this sprawling complex.

Next, the tour heads to the bustling Dong Ba Market, where guests enjoy local life and a food workshop.

The itinerary continues at the Royal Tombs, including the ornate Khai Dinh and majestic Minh Mang tombs.

Thien Mu Pagoda

Kicking off the tour is a boat ride along the serene Perfume River, providing a tranquil approach to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda – Hue’s oldest and most renowned Buddhist temple.

Dating back to 1601, the seven-tiered pagoda towers over the riverbank, its ornate architecture reflecting Vietnam’s rich spiritual heritage.

Visitors can explore the temple’s grounds, including the Pavilion of the Mandarins and the octagonal tower, before continuing on to the Imperial City for a deeper dive into Hue’s storied past.

With its picturesque setting and historical significance, Thien Mu Pagoda offers a captivating start to an immersive tour of this ancient capital.

Imperial City, Hue

After the serene boat ride along the Perfume River, visitors arrive at the Imperial City, the former home of Vietnam’s last royal dynasty, the Nguyen Dynasty.

This sprawling complex offers a guided tour and free time for sightseeing, spanning 2.5 hours. Visitors can explore the grand palaces, temples, and gardens that once housed the imperial family.

The guide provides insights into the city’s rich history and architecture, blending Eastern and Western influences.

Wandering through the Imperial City offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s past, allowing travelers to enjoy the grandeur and traditions of the Nguyen era.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Dong Ba Market

Leaving the grandeur of the Imperial City behind, visitors head to the bustling Dong Ba Market, the heart and soul of Hue’s local life.

This lively market offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant culture. Vendors hawk an array of fresh produce, fragrant spices, and traditional handicrafts.

Visitors can browse the stalls, haggle with merchants, and enjoy the cacophony of sounds and aromas.

The market visit provides a hands-on opportunity to experience the daily rhythms of Hue, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s culinary traditions and the importance of this commercial hub in the lives of the local community.

Royal Tombs

What follows the exploration of the vibrant Dong Ba Market is a visit to the majestic Royal Tombs, remarkable relics of Hue’s royal past.

Travelers will get to explore the Khai Dinh King Tomb, a captivating blend of Western and Eastern architecture, and the Minh Mang King Tomb, considered the most majestic of all royal tombs.

Spending around 1.5 hours at each site, visitors can marvel at the intricate designs, ornate decorations, and the serene atmosphere that pervades these regal structures.

The Royal Tombs offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial legacy and provide a profound understanding of the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Thuy Bieu Village

The tour now moves on to the quaint Thuy Bieu Village, where visitors can enjoy the charming rural atmosphere.

The guide leads the group on a 30-minute exploration of this picturesque community, showcasing its highlights:

• Traditional Vietnamese houses and gardens
• Serene waterways for a tranquil boat ride
• Opportunities to interact with friendly locals
• Demonstrations of age-old handicrafts and customs

Guests are free to wander the village, absorbing the peaceful pace of life and gaining a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s cultural heritage.

This intimate encounter with the countryside provides a fitting end to an enriching day of discovery in the historic city of Hue.

Included Services

The tour package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors.

A private car with a driver provides convenient transportation throughout the day. An English or French-speaking guide accompanies guests, sharing insights and historical information.

Lunch at a local restaurant is included, as are all entrance fees to the featured attractions. Bottled water and tissues are provided for comfort.

The tour also includes travel insurance and tips for the guide and driver, so there are no hidden costs. With these inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the rich cultural heritage of Hue’s landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing customers with flexibility in planning their trip to Hue, Vietnam’s ancient capital.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. Customers can discuss their preferences with the tour provider and adjust the schedule to focus on specific sites or experiences within the overall tour.

How Many People Can Be Accommodated in the Private Car?

The private car can accommodate up to 4 people comfortably. The tour is designed for a private group, so the size of the vehicle can be adjusted based on the number of participants.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements for the Included Lunch?

The tour description doesn’t mention any specific dietary requirements for the included lunch. However, it’s recommended that travelers with special dietary needs contact the tour provider in advance to ensure their needs can be accommodated.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and lightweight, breathable clothing are recommended. Visitors should avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless tops when visiting religious sites like the Thien Mu Pagoda.

Recap

This full-day private excursion in Hue offers a comprehensive exploration of Vietnam’s imperial legacy. Visitors can marvel at the stunning Thien Mu Pagoda, discover the majestic Imperial City, and visit the royal tombs of Khai Dinh and Minh Mang. The serene boat ride on the Perfume River, vibrant Dong Ba Market, and tranquil Thuy Bieu Village further enhance the experience, providing a well-rounded culture.

You can check if your dates are available here: