Experience the rich history and culture of Hue City with a private car and dragon boat cruise tour. Starting at just $40.66 per person, this 7-8 hour journey takes you to the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and royal tombs. Enjoy a traditional lunch on the Perfume River as you learn about Vietnam’s royal legacy. Comfortable transportation and cultural insights make this an unforgettable exploration of one of the country’s most captivating destinations.
Key Points
-
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Imperial Citadel, and learn about its historical significance in Vietnam’s royal legacy.
-
Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, a Buddhist monastery established in 1601, and gain insights into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
-
Discover the tombs of past emperors, showcasing a blend of Eastern and Western architectural influences.
-
Enjoy a serene dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, offering a tranquil break and picturesque views.
-
Experience a private, air-conditioned car and minivan transportation for a comfortable and efficient sightseeing tour, including hotel or airport pickup.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Hue City Tour is a 1-day private car and dragon boat cruise package that starts from $40.66 per person.
A 1-day private car and dragon boat cruise package in Hue starting from $40.66 per person.
This 7-8 hour tour includes pickup from your hotel or airport, visits to the Imperial Citadel, Forbidden City, Thien Mu Pagoda, royal tombs, and a cruise on the Perfume River.
Tour highlights feature guided visits of key sites, traditional food tasting, and cultural insights into Vietnamese history and architecture.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a "reserve now, pay later" option is available.
Transportation is provided by air-conditioned private vehicle, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
Want to keep it personal? More private experiences we love in Thua Thien Hue Province
Itinerary Highlights
The Hue City Tour offers a comprehensive itinerary highlighting the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Guests will visit the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for an in-depth exploration. They’ll then head to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a Buddhist monastery dating back to 1601.
The tour includes visits to the elaborate tombs of past emperors, allowing visitors to enjoy Vietnam’s royal past. A dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River provides a serene break.
Lunch features the renowned Hue noodle soup, offering a taste of the region’s culinary traditions.
Cultural Insights
Beyond exploring the historical sites, the Hue City Tour offers valuable cultural insights into Vietnam’s imperial past and enduring traditions.
Visitors can learn about the rich history and significance of the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Thien Mu Pagoda, built in 1601, provides a glimpse into the country’s Buddhist heritage.
On top of that, the elaborately designed Tomb of Khai Dinh showcases the blend of Eastern and Western architectural influences during the reign of the last Vietnamese emperor.
These cultural experiences enrich the understanding of Vietnam’s royal legacy and its lasting impact on the nation.
Transportation and Accessibility
As part of the Hue City Tour, private transfers with air-conditioned cars or minivans are provided for pickup and drop-off at three convenient locations: Hue, Hue Imperial City, and Imperial City.
This ensures a comfortable and efficient transportation experience throughout the tour. The tour is also wheelchair accessible, allowing guests with mobility challenges to fully participate in the cultural exploration.
Guests can focus on the immersive sightseeing experience without the hassle of navigating public transportation. The private transfers contribute to the overall seamless and personalized nature of the Hue City Tour.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImperial Citadel Exploration
Visitors embark on an immersive exploration of the Imperial Citadel, the former seat of the Nguyen Dynasty‘s emperors.
They’ll discover the architectural grandeur of this 19th-century walled complex, divided into the Forbidden Purple City and the Outer Court.
Guides provide insight into the citadel’s history, highlighting its role as the political and spiritual heart of Vietnam.
Guests marvel at the intricate designs, ornate gates, and elaborate pavilions that showcase the empire’s rich cultural heritage.
The two-hour tour offers a captivating glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the country’s regal legacy.
Ready to set sail again? More boat adventures we've reviewed in Thua Thien Hue Province
Thien Mu Pagoda Discovery
After exploring the grandeur of the Imperial Citadel, the tour continues to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda. This 7-story structure, built in 1601, is considered the unofficial symbol of Hue. Visitors can marvel at its impressive architecture and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.
| Architectural Highlights | Historical Significance |
| — | — |
| Octagonal design with carved dragons | Home to the nation’s largest bell, weighing over 2,000 kg |
| Elaborately decorated roof and tiers | Played a role in the Buddhist uprising against the Ngo Dinh Diem government in the 1960s |
| Intricate tile and stone carvings | Remains an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists |
The visit to Thien Mu Pagoda provides a deeper understanding of Hue’s religious and political history.
Royal Tomb Visits
The tour then ventures to the impressive royal tombs, showcasing the architectural legacy of Hue’s past emperors.
Visitors explore the Tomb of Minh Mang, a sprawling complex featuring pavilions, temples, and ornate gardens. Alternatively, they can opt to see the Tomb of Tu Duc, known for its serene lake and exquisite sculptures.
Next, they discover the Tomb of Khai Dinh, a unique blend of Eastern and Western styles, marked by its elaborate tile work and stone statues.
These royal resting places provide a window into Vietnam’s dynastic past and the cultural sophistication of the Nguyen emperors.
Perfume River Dragon Boat Cruise
The tour continues with a serene dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River.
A serene dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River continues the tour’s exploration of Hue’s imperial legacy.
This 20-minute experience offers a tranquil respite and a chance to admire the scenic riverbanks.
Passengers can:
-
Observe the lush vegetation and historical sites along the river
-
Take in the peaceful ambiance and soak up the local atmosphere
-
Learn about the cultural significance of the Perfume River to Hue’s heritage
-
Appreciate the traditional wooden boat design and skilled boatmen
-
Capture picturesque moments to immortalize the Hue river experience.
This relaxing boat ride complements the comprehensive exploration of Hue’s imperial legacy.
Since You Asked
Is Photography Allowed Inside the Imperial Citadel?
Photography is generally allowed inside the Imperial Citadel, but visitors should be mindful of any restrictions or rules. It’s best to check with tour guides or staff on site for the latest policies.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Dragon Boat Cruise?
Guests can bring their own snacks on the dragon boat cruise. The tour operator does not provide food during the boat ride, so bringing personal snacks is permissible and recommended if desired.
Is the Tour Guide Fluent in English?
The tour guide for this Hue City Tour is fluent in English, enabling seamless communication and cultural exploration throughout the day. Guests can expect attentive guidance and insightful explanations from the experienced English-speaking tour guide.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Fit My Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized to fit the traveler’s interests. The tour operator offers flexibility, allowing participants to substitute sites or activities based on their preferences within the overall itinerary and duration.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
Yes, the tour offers discounted rates for children under 12 and seniors over 65. Children get a 50% discount, while seniors receive a 25% discount off the standard per person price.
Final Words
This Hue city tour provides an immersive experience into Vietnam’s imperial heritage. Guests will explore the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, marvel at the Thien Mu Pagoda, and visit majestic royal tombs. The dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River offers a serene backdrop to savor local cuisine. With comfortable transportation and cultural insights, this tour is an excellent way to uncover Hue’s rich history and traditions in just one day.
You can check if your dates are available here:Not for you? Here's more things to do in Thua Thien Hue Province we have recnetly reviewed
- UNVEILING TAM GIANG LAGOONS ENCHANTING SUNSET
- Hue: Market Tour and Cooking Class With Typical Dishes
- Small Group Transfer Hoi an / Da Nang to Hue – Direct Bus
- Making the Paper Flowers Experience in Hue
- Hue: Half-Day Yellow Tam Giang Lagoon Sunset Tour
- Hue Royal Tombs Tour: Khai Dinh and Tu Duc Mausoleum
- Hue City Explore Full Day Tour
- Da Nang – Sightseeing Lang Co Beach – Hue
- Full-day Hue Excursion From Hue/Danang/Hoian
- Explore Phuoc Tich Ancient Village and Tam Giang Lagoon
- Explore the Community-Based Ecotourism in a Luoi
- Sunrise Floating Market on Tam Giang Lagoon