Hue: Dragon Boat Cruise, Imperial Citadel, & Market Day Trip

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, beckons travelers with its enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. A day trip to this captivating city promises an unforgettable journey, where visitors can embark on a serene dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, explore the grand Imperial Citadel, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Dong Ba Market. From the architectural marvel of Thien Mu Pagoda to the serene beauty of the royal tombs, this comprehensive tour offers a glimpse into Hue’s rich heritage, leaving visitors eager to uncover more of this enchanting destination.

This experience made our list of the 7 Best Shopping Tours In Hue Vietnam.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 9-hour tour that includes a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, guided visits to Hue’s top attractions, and free time at Dong Ba Market.
• Explore the tranquility and architecture of Thien Mu Pagoda, discover the historical significance of the Imperial Citadel, and shop at the vibrant Dong Ba Market.
• Observe artisans crafting traditional conical hats and incense sticks in local villages, providing an immersive cultural experience.
• Visit the Tomb of Minh Mang and Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh, gaining insights into Hue’s rich imperial history.
• Hassle-free experience with hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, live guide, entry tickets, and meals included in the tour price.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Hue: Dragon Boat Cruise, Imperial Citadel, & Market Day Trip is a comprehensive tour that offers travelers an immersive experience in the historic city of Hue.

Priced from $58.53 per person, the 9-hour tour includes a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, guided visits to the Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial Citadel, Minh Mang Tomb, and Khai Dinh Mausoleum, as well as free time at the vibrant Dong Ba Market.

Travelers can conveniently book the tour with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a live guide, and all necessary entry tickets and meals included, this day trip provides a hassle-free way to explore Hue’s top attractions.

Itinerary Highlights

The Hue: Dragon Boat Cruise, Imperial Citadel, & Market Day Trip takes travelers on a comprehensive journey through the historic sights and cultural experiences of Hue.

The tour includes a 20-minute dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, followed by a guided tour of the Thien Mu Pagoda. Guests will then explore the Imperial City, a sprawling complex of ancient royal palaces and temples, for about two hours.

The itinerary also features free time at the vibrant Dong Ba Market, a local restaurant lunch, and guided visits to the Tomb of Minh Mang and the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh.

Throughout the day, travelers can observe artisans in traditional villages crafting conical hats and incense sticks.

Experiences and Attractions

On this day trip, travelers glide along the Perfume River in a traditional dragon boat, admiring the tranquil riverside scenery as they approach the stunning Thien Mu Pagoda.

After exploring this iconic temple, the tour guides visitors through the Imperial Citadel, a complex of ancient royal palaces and temples that offers a glimpse into Hue’s imperial past.

The vibrant Dong Ba Market provides an opportunity to shop and take in local culture.

Plus, the tour visits the tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh, showcasing the region’s rich royal heritage.

Travelers also have the chance to observe artisans in traditional villages creating iconic Vietnamese crafts like conical hats and incense sticks.

• Glide along the Perfume River in a dragon boat
• Explore the tranquility of Thien Mu Pagoda
• Discover the Imperial Citadel’s ancient royal sites
• Shop at the vibrant Dong Ba Market
• Visit royal tombs and observe traditional craftsmanship

Boat Cruise on Perfume River

Though the Perfume River is known for its serene beauty, the dragon boat cruise offers travelers a unique perspective to admire this iconic waterway. Gliding along the river’s gentle currents, visitors can take in the picturesque landscapes and cultural landmarks that line its banks.

Experience	Duration	Highlights
Dragon Boat Cruise	20 minutes	Tranquil ride, riverside views
Thien Mu Pagoda	40 minutes	Iconic riverside temple, guided tour
Imperial Citadel	2 hours	Exploration of ancient royal palaces

The dragon boat cruise provides a relaxing and immersive way to explore the Perfume River, allowing travelers to soak in the beauty and history of Hue’s waterways.

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Visiting Thien Mu Pagoda

After the serene dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, the tour takes visitors to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue’s most iconic landmarks.

This 7-story pagoda, dating back to 1601, stands as a testament to Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the pagoda’s intricate architecture, including:

• The striking, octagonal tower that dominates the skyline
• The ornate altar and statues within the main temple
• The serene gardens and courtyards that promote contemplation
• The historic car that once belonged to Buddhist monk Thích Quảng Đức
• The sweeping views of the Perfume River and surrounding landscape

This guided visit to Thien Mu Pagoda offers a glimpse into Hue’s spiritual heart and the enduring influence of Buddhism in Vietnamese culture.

Exploring Imperial Citadel

Next, the tour explores the grand Imperial Citadel, the former seat of the Nguyen dynasty’s imperial power. Visitors wander through the massive complex, which includes ancient royal palaces, elaborate temples, and historic monuments.

Feature	Description	Duration
Royal Palaces	Stroll through ornate imperial residences and throne rooms	1 hour
Forbidden Purple City	Discover the exclusive inner sanctum of the emperor	30 minutes
Citadel Grounds	Soak in the tranquil atmosphere and manicured gardens	30 minutes

The guided tour provides fascinating insights into the citadel’s rich history and significance, allowing visitors to step back in time and envision the grandeur of the bygone imperial era.

Browsing Dong Ba Market

The tour now transitions to the bustling Dong Ba Market, where visitors are immersed in the vibrant sights, sounds, and aromas of local life.

Guests are given 40 minutes to freely explore this iconic marketplace, discovering a treasure trove of cultural experiences. They can browse stalls selling an array of goods, from traditional conical hats and aromatic incense to fresh produce and handcrafted souvenirs.

Visitors may also observe artisans skillfully crafting these items, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. The market’s lively atmosphere and friendly vendors create an engaging and authentic shopping experience that immerses travelers in the heart of Hue’s vibrant culture.

• Diverse array of traditional goods and handicrafts
• Opportunity to observe local artisans at work
• Immersion in the sights, sounds, and aromas of the market
• Vibrant, lively atmosphere that showcases local culture
• 40 minutes of free time to freely explore the market

Touring Royal Tombs

With the vibrant sights and sounds of Dong Ba Market now behind them, the tour moves on to explore the serene and majestic royal tombs that dot the countryside surrounding Hue.

First, they’ll visit the Tomb of Minh Mang, a sprawling complex featuring ornate temples, pavilions, and the emperor’s final resting place.

Next, they’ll continue to the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh, a unique combination of Vietnamese and European architectural styles.

As they stroll through these elegant imperial sites, guests will gain insights into Hue’s rich history and the powerful dynasties that once ruled over Vietnam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use My Own Transportation During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can use their own transportation during the tour, but they’ll still need to meet the group at the designated locations. This allows them to explore independently while still participating in the organized activities.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Religious Sites?

There is generally a dress code for visiting religious sites in Hue. Visitors are expected to wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees out of respect for local customs and traditions.

Are Vegetarian/Halal Meal Options Available for Lunch?

Yes, vegetarian and halal meal options are typically available for the included lunch on this tour. The tour provider can accommodate most dietary requirements with advance notice.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour’s itinerary can be customized to suit the traveler’s preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to modify the activities and timings based on the customer’s requests, subject to availability and additional charges.

What Should I Bring to Make the Most of the Day Trip?

To make the most of the day trip, one should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, cash for market purchases, a camera to capture the sights, and maybe a snack or water bottle for the journey.

Recap

This Hue day trip offers an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to cruise the serene Perfume River, explore the historic Imperial Citadel, and discover the vibrant Dong Ba Market. Highlights include visiting the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and touring the awe-inspiring royal tombs, providing an unforgettable glimpse into Hue’s rich heritage and scenic landscapes. This comprehensive tour is an excellent way to explore the enchanting charm of this renowned Vietnamese destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: