From Hue: Hue Imperial City Day Trip With Lunch on Boat

Discover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. This comprehensive day trip takes travelers on a journey through the Hue Citadel, Hue Royal Antiquities Museum, and Thien Mu Pagoda, offering a deep dive into the region’s enduring legacy. The excursion also includes a scenic boat cruise along the Perfume River and a traditional Vietnamese lunch, providing a well-rounded experience for those eager to enjoy the rich heritage of this remarkable destination.

Key Points

• This 7-hour Hue Imperial City day trip explores the city’s cultural heritage, including the Hue Citadel, Hue Royal Antiquities Museum, Thien Mu Pagoda, and a dragon boat cruise with lunch.
• The tour is priced at $46.76 per person and includes pickup, entry fees, an English-speaking guide, and a lunch cruise along the Perfume River.
• Key highlights of the tour include the ancient architecture and cultural significance of the Hue Citadel, as well as the opportunity to learn about the Nguyen Dynasty at the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum.
• The tour also includes a visit to a local Incense & Conical Hat Village, where visitors can experience traditional crafts and techniques.
• Cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Hue Imperial City Day Trip offers a comprehensive tour that explores the rich cultural heritage of Hue, Vietnam. Priced from $46.76 per person, the 7-hour excursion includes pickup, entry fees, an English-speaking guide, and a delightful lunch cruise on the Perfume River.

Highlights include the iconic Hue Citadel, the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum, the Thien Mu Pagoda, and the tombs of Emperors Khai Dinh and Tu Duc. Visitors can also experience a local craft village.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s an ideal way to discover Hue’s treasures.

Itinerary Highlights

Drivers and guides pick up guests at designated locations in Hue’s center, such as Meliá Vinpearl Hue or the Imperial City.

The tour explores ancient imperial architecture and cultural heritage at the Hue Citadel. At the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum, visitors learn about the Nguyen Dynasty.

The group then visits the oldest and most sacred pagoda in Hue, Thien Mu. Next, they tour the impressive tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh and one of the most beautiful Nguyen Dynasty works, the Tomb of Tu Duc.

The day ends with a dragon boat cruise and Hue cuisine lunch along the Perfume River.

Hue Citadel: Exploring Ancient Architecture and Cultural Heritage

As the first stop on the tour, visitors explore the renowned Hue Citadel, an ancient walled palace that serves as a testament to the architectural and cultural heritage of the Nguyen Dynasty. Wandering the citadel’s vast grounds, they marvel at the intricate structures, from the iconic Ngo Mon Gate to the serene Thai Hoa Palace. The following table highlights the poignant emotions evoked by the citadel’s grandeur and historic significance:

| Emotion | Description |

| — | — |

| Awe | Visitors are overwhelmed by the citadel’s sheer scale and masterful craftsmanship. |

| Reverence | The citadel’s role as the seat of the Nguyen emperors instills a sense of reverence for Vietnam’s past. |

| Contemplation | The citadel’s tranquil courtyards and gardens invite visitors to reflect on the passage of time.

Hue Royal Antiquities Museum: Learning About the Nguyen Dynasty

Next, visitors explore the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of the Nguyen Dynasty.

The museum showcases an impressive collection of royal artifacts, including exquisite ceramics, jade carvings, and intricate embroidered robes. Guests learn about the lavish lifestyles and cultural traditions of the Nguyen emperors, who ruled Vietnam for over 140 years.

Highlights include the emperor’s seals, imperial diplomas, and personal belongings, providing insight into the daily lives of the royal family.

With knowledgeable guides on hand, visitors gain a deeper understanding of this influential dynasty.

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Thien Mu Pagoda: Visiting the Oldest and Most Sacred Pagoda in Hue

The tour then proceeds to the Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest and most sacred Buddhist temple in Hue.

Built in 1601, the seven-tiered pagoda sits atop a hill overlooking the Perfume River. Visitors can climb the stone steps to explore the pagoda’s intricate architecture and learn about its storied history.

The site also houses the famous Austin car that a Buddhist monk used to set himself on fire in 1963 to protest the South Vietnamese government’s policies.

Afterward, the tour continues to the impressive tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors.

Imperial Tombs: Guided Tours of Khai Dinh and Tu Duc

After visiting the Thien Mu Pagoda, the tour proceeds to the impressive tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors. First, explore the Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh, an ornate monument blending Vietnamese and European architectural styles. Then, discover the serene Tomb of Tu Duc, one of the most beautiful works of the dynasty. Enjoy guided tours of these imperial mausoleums, learning about the history and significance of these structures.

| Site | Description |

| — | — |

| Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh | Ornate monument blending Vietnamese and European styles |

| Tomb of Tu Duc | Serene and beautiful imperial mausoleum |

Incense & Conical Hat Village: Experiencing Traditional Crafts

From the imperial tombs, the tour continues to a local Incense & Conical Hat Village, where visitors can experience the production of traditional Vietnamese crafts.

At the village, travelers visit a family home to observe the intricate process of making incense sticks and conical hats. They learn about the techniques and materials used, and may even have the opportunity to try their hand at these time-honored crafts.

This immersive experience provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Hue, complementing the earlier exploration of the imperial city’s architectural wonders.

Transportation and Services

This day trip provides comprehensive transportation and services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The tour includes a high-quality air-conditioned car and an English-speaking guide to accompany you throughout the journey. A delicious Hue cuisine lunch is served aboard a dragon boat as you cruise along the Perfume River.

Entrance fees to all the key sites are covered, and you’ll receive two mini bottles of water per person. Local travel insurance is also included for your peace of mind.

Pickup and drop-off are provided at two convenient locations in Hue.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour has a strict policy against bringing pets, as stated in the important information section.

Is the Tour Available on All Public Holidays?

No, the tour is not available on all public holidays. There’s an extra charge of 50,000 VND per person on certain public holidays like April 29-30, May 1-2, January 1, and Lunar New Year.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Lunch?

The tour does not offer vegetarian or halal lunch options. However, the customer can notify the tour provider in advance about any dietary requirements, and they’ll try their best to accommodate them, but this may incur an additional charge.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Needs?

Yes, the tour can be customized to accommodate special needs. Travelers should contact the tour provider to request accommodations for dietary restrictions, mobility issues, or other needs. The tour provider will work to accommodate requests where possible.

How Do I Get a Refund if I Need to Cancel the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can easily cancel their booking and receive their money back if they need to change their plans.

Final Words

The Hue Imperial City Day Trip offers a comprehensive exploration of Vietnam’s cultural heritage. Travelers can enjoy the grandeur of the Hue Citadel, discover the Nguyen Dynasty‘s history at the Royal Antiquities Museum, and experience the serenity of Thien Mu Pagoda. With a delightful lunch on a boat and the convenience of included transportation and services, this tour provides an unforgettable journey into the heart of Vietnam’s imperial past.

You can check if your dates are available here: