Hue Tour: Walking in Imperial City With Optional Dragon Boat

Discover the rich history and imperial grandeur of Hue, Vietnam’s former capital, with this comprehensive walking tour. Explore the iconic sites of the Imperial City, including the Supreme Harmony Palace and the Forbidden Purple City, led by an English-speaking guide. For a truly immersive experience, opt for the 30-minute Dragon Boat cruise along the Perfume River, offering a unique perspective on the city’s cultural heritage. With a personalized group size, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Hue’s captivating past.

Key Points

• A 2.5 to 4-hour walking tour through Hue’s Imperial City, priced from $19.52 per person with a maximum of 8 participants.
• The tour includes visits to landmarks like the Nine Holy Cannons, Noon Gate, Flag Tower, and the Supreme Harmony Palace.
• An optional 30-minute Dragon Boat cruise along the Perfume River offers scenic views of the imperial landmarks.
• The tour is led by an English-speaking guide who provides historical insights about the sites.
• Entry tickets to the Imperial City can be purchased before the tour or with the guide’s assistance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Hue Tour: Walking in Imperial City offers an immersive experience, providing guests with a 2.5 to 4-hour walking tour through the historic Imperial City.

Priced from $19.52 per person, the tour is limited to 8 participants and led by an English-speaking guide.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior, and booking can be secured with a deposit.

Entrance fees to the Imperial City sites aren’t included, but can be purchased before or during the tour.

The tour’s flexible schedule and group size ensure a personalized and enriching exploration of Hue’s cultural heritage.

Imperial City Walking Tour

Although the tour begins at the Nine Holy Cannons (Cửu Vị Thần Công), the walking experience leads participants through the Noon Gate (Ngọ Môn Huế), Flag Tower (Kỳ Đài Huế), and Supreme Harmony Palace (Điện Thái Hòa) – iconic landmarks that showcase the grandeur and significance of the Imperial City. Along the way, guests will also visit the Nine Dynastic Urns (Cửu Đỉnh Huế), The Mieu Temple (Thế Miếu Huế), and the Forbidden Purple City (Tử Cấm Thành Huế) – all while learning about Hue’s rich history from a knowledgeable local guide.

| Site | Duration |

| ———————— | ——– |

| Nine Holy Cannons | 15 mins |

| Noon Gate | 20 mins |

| Flag Tower | 15 mins |

| Supreme Harmony Palace | 30 mins |

Optional Dragon Boat Cruise

Alternatively, guests can enhance their Hue tour experience by opting for the additional 30-minute Dragon Boat cruise to Thien Mu Pagoda.

This optional activity allows visitors to glide along the tranquil Perfume River, offering a unique perspective of Hue’s imperial landmarks. The Dragon Boat cruise provides a relaxing interlude, complementing the walking tour of the Imperial City.

Guests can sit back, take in the scenic views, and learn about the historical significance of Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue’s most iconic religious sites.

This optional add-on is ideal for those seeking a more immersive and memorable exploration of Hue’s cultural heritage.

Historical Sites Explored

During the Hue tour, participants explore a wealth of historical sites within the Imperial City.

The tour highlights:

• The Nine Holy Cannons (Cửu Vị Thần Công), impressive bronze cannons dating back to the 19th century.

• The Noon Gate (Ngọ Môn Huế), the main entrance to the Imperial Citadel, with its striking architecture.

• The Flag Tower (Kỳ Đài Huế), a symbol of Hue’s imperial legacy, offering panoramic views.

• The Supreme Harmony Palace (Điện Thái Hòa), the Emperor’s audience chamber, showcasing the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty.

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Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The Hue Tour: Walking in Imperial City includes a comprehensive walking tour of the historic Imperial City, with an optional dragon boat cruise to Thien Mu Pagoda. The tour is limited to 8 participants and led by an expert, English-speaking guide. Entrance fees to the Imperial City are not included, but can be purchased before the tour or with guide assistance. While gratuities for the guide and driver are not included, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

| What’s Included | What’s Not Included |

| — | — |

| 2.5-hour walking tour | Entry tickets to Imperial City |

| Optional 30-minute dragon boat cruise | Tips/gratuities for guide and driver |

| Live English-speaking guide | – |

| Group size limited to 8 | – |

Meeting Point and Entry Tickets

The meeting point for the Hue Tour: Walking in Imperial City is at the 4 Bronze Cannons Area near the Ngan Gate (Cửa Ngăn).

The meeting point for the Hue Tour: Walking in Imperial City is at the 4 Bronze Cannons Area near the Ngan Gate (Cửa Ngăn).

The tour guide will have the participant’s name for identification.

Entry tickets to the Imperial City aren’t included and can be purchased:

• Before the tour

• With the guide’s assistance when meeting at the starting point

• As a Citadel ticket (200k/person) or a Combo Ticket (420k for Imperial City with 2 Tombs, 530k for 3 Tombs), valid for two days.

Tour Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

This tour offers flexible booking options, allowing participants to reserve their spot now and pay later.

Plus, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a full refund. This policy offers peace of mind for travelers, who can book with confidence and adjust their plans if needed.

The tour’s limited group size of 8 participants also provides a more personalized experience.

With a live English-speaking guide, this Hue tour is designed to cater to the needs of international visitors, offering a hassle-free and enjoyable exploration of the Imperial City.

About Hue and the Imperial City

As the former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue holds a rich cultural and historical significance.

The Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the architectural grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Visitors can explore:

• The Nine Holy Cannons, a symbolic display of power

• The Noon Gate, the main entrance to the Citadel

• The Flag Tower, a landmark offering panoramic views

• The Forbidden Purple City, the once-restricted residence of the emperor

This walking tour provides an immersive experience, allowing travelers to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of Hue’s imperial legacy.

Since You Asked

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specified dress code for this tour. Visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes. Modesty is advised when visiting religious sites like the Imperial City. No formal attire is required.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is suitable for children, as the walking pace and activities can accommodate families. However, parents should consider their child’s interests and stamina, as the tour duration may be lengthy for younger kids.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific policies or restrictions. Food and drinks can be enjoyed during free time or breaks.

Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention discounts for seniors or students. However, many attractions in Hue offer reduced admission fees for these groups, so it’s worth inquiring about any available discounts when purchasing the required entry tickets.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is generally accessible for individuals with disabilities, though accessibility may vary. Travelers should inquire about specific accommodations when booking. The guides are happy to work with guests to ensure an enjoyable experience within the tour’s capabilities.

Final Words

This Hue tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s imperial heritage. Visitors can enjoy the history and culture of the Supreme Harmony Palace and Forbidden Purple City through a guided walking tour. The optional dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River further enhances the experience, providing a scenic and relaxing way to appreciate Hue’s natural beauty. With a personalized, small-group setting, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an in-depth understanding of Vietnam’s imperial past.

You can check if your dates are available here: