Hue : Full-Day City Tour With Dragon Boat Trip – Small Group

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is a city steeped in history and cultural significance. The full-day city tour with a dragon boat trip provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the UNESCO-listed landmarks and discover the enchanting essence of this ancient city. From the imposing Imperial Citadel to the serene Perfume River, the tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Hue’s rich heritage and the enduring traditions that shape its vibrant identity. With a knowledgeable guide, travelers can uncover the stories behind each captivating site and gain a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s captivating past.

Key Points

• A full-day city tour of Hue, priced at $35.78 per person, that includes hotel pickup/drop-off, English-speaking guide, dragon boat trip, and entrance fees.
• Highlights of the tour include Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial Citadel, Dong Ba Market, Khai Dinh Tomb, and Minh Mang Tomb, with an optional stop at Thuy Xuan Incense Village.
• The tour features a boat ride on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda, exploration of the Imperial Citadel, and visits to local markets and tombs.
• Lunch at a local restaurant serving Hue’s specialty dishes is included in the tour.
• Moderate walking is involved, and the tour is not suitable for individuals with back problems or wheelchair users due to uneven terrain.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Hue: Full-Day City Tour with Dragon Boat Trip – Small Group is a comprehensive day tour that allows visitors to explore the historical and cultural highlights of Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam.

Priced at $35.78 per person, the tour lasts one day and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, a dragon boat trip, and entrance fees to all sites.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes visits to the Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial Citadel, Dong Ba Market, Khai Dinh Tomb, Minh Mang Tomb, and an optional stop at the Thuy Xuan Incense Village.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors to Hue can look forward to a diverse itinerary during the full-day city tour.

The trip begins with a boat ride on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest in Hue. Next, guests explore the Imperial Citadel, the residence of 13 emperors.

After, they visit the bustling Dong Ba Market, the largest in Hue. Lunch at a local restaurant features Hue’s specialty dishes.

The tour then ventures to the ornate Khai Dinh Tomb and the scenic Minh Mang Tomb.

An optional stop at the Thuy Xuan Incense Village allows visitors to see local incense production.

Inclusions

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a lunch at a local restaurant, a dragon boat trip, and entrance fees to all the sites visited.

The tour covers a wide range of highlights, ensuring a comprehensive experience:

This comprehensive tour covers a wide range of highlights, ensuring a truly immersive experience for visitors.

• Enjoy a boat trip on the Perfume River to visit the historic Thien Mu Pagoda.

• Explore the expansive Imperial Citadel, the former residence of 13 Emperors.

• Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Dong Ba Market, the cultural and commercial hub of Hue.

• Visit the Khai Dinh Tomb and the Minh Mang Tomb, showcasing the region’s architectural heritage.

Personal expenses and tips aren’t included in the tour price.

Recommendations

Although a moderate amount of walking is involved, the tour is recommended for most visitors.

It’s suggested to wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay cool and protected.

The tour may not be suitable for those with back problems or wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain and steps.

Visitors are advised to bring cash for entry tickets, as credit cards may not be widely accepted at all sites.

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Customer Reviews

The Hue City Tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 5/5 based on 3 customer reviews.

The Hue City Tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 5/5 based on 3 customer reviews.

Reviewers praised the engaging and informative guide, the varied and comprehensive experience, and the thorough explanations throughout the tour.

Key highlights from the reviews include:

• A UK traveler who found the guide "engaging and interesting"

• A German traveler who described the experience as "varied and informative" with guide Ruby

• A Spanish traveler who noted the "friendly guide Ruby" and the "thorough explanations" during the comprehensive tour

Consistent praise for the knowledgeable and attentive guide who brought the tour to life.

Thien Mu Pagoda

One of the highlights of the Hue City Tour is the visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hue.

Situated on the north bank of the Perfume River, this iconic seven-story octagonal tower is a symbol of the former imperial capital. Visitors take a boat trip to reach the pagoda, where they can explore the beautiful grounds and admire the impressive architecture.

The pagoda’s origins date back to 1601, when it was built to house a celestial predicted by a monk.

Today, the Thien Mu Pagoda remains an important religious and cultural site, attracting visitors from around the world.

Imperial Citadel

Following the Thien Mu Pagoda, visitors explore the residence of 13 Emperors, featuring around 100 monuments spread over 520 hectares.

The Imperial Citadel showcases the architectural brilliance of the Nguyen Dynasty. Highlights include:

• The Noon Gate, the main entrance to the citadel

• The Imperial Palaces, where Emperors conducted affairs of state

• The Forbidden Purple City, once off-limits to all but the Imperial family

• The remaining ruins, reflecting the citadel’s turbulent history marked by wars and invasions

Exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a captivating glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past.

Dong Ba Market

Dong Ba Market, the largest market in Hue, serves as the cultural and commercial hub of the city.

Visitors can explore the bustling stalls, filled with an array of local produce, handicrafts, and traditional Vietnamese cuisine. From fresh seafood and exotic fruits to vibrant fabrics and handmade souvenirs, the market offers a glimpse into the daily life of Hue residents.

Shoppers can engage with friendly vendors, haggle for the best prices, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The 30-minute visit provides a captivating introduction to the local market culture and its importance in Hue’s daily activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour Typically Start?

The tour typically starts in the morning, though the exact start time may vary. Pickup is available from hotels in the Hue city center, ensuring a convenient start to the day’s activities.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There is no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is offered as a fixed 1-day program, with a set start and end time. The inclusions and itinerary are predetermined and cannot be customized or lengthened.

Can the Tour Be Customized Based on Personal Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized based on personal interests. The itinerary is flexible, and travelers can work with the tour provider to adjust the activities according to their preferences and time constraints.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator doesn’t currently offer any discounts for students or seniors. However, they may be willing to provide a discount if you inquire directly with them about your specific situation.

Can I Purchase Additional Incense From the Thuy Xuan Incense Village?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional incense from the Thuy Xuan Incense Village during the optional stop. The village is known for its traditional incense production, allowing travelers to observe the process and buy souvenirs.

Recap

This full-day tour of Hue offers an immersive experience into the city’s rich cultural heritage. Guests can explore iconic landmarks, enjoy a scenic boat ride, and savor local cuisine, all for a reasonable price. With an English-speaking guide, this small-group tour provides a convenient and informative way to discover the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage site of Hue.

You can check if your dates are available here: