Welcome to Hue, Vietnam’s hidden gem. With its imperial opulence, colonial relics, and picturesque landscapes, Hue offers a sensory-rich getaway for culture seekers. The warm and proud residents of Hue are eager to share their exceptional cuisine and the city’s monumental history with visitors. In this three-day itinerary, you’ll explore the top highlights of Hue while also discovering some lesser-known neighborhoods, rarely-visited attractions, and local eateries. So grab a map and get ready for an enchanting adventure!
Day 1 – Street Scenes, Hue Citadel, and Imperial Tombs
Morning – Start your day early by venturing into the enticing streets surrounding the Hue Citadel. Take a bicycle or cyclo and explore photoworthy spots like Nguyễn Văn Trỗi park, Hiển Nhơn gate, Tịnh Tâm lake, and the twin ponds of Tấn Miếu and Võ Sanh, adorned with blooming pink lotus flowers from April to July.
TIP: If you’re a cafe lover, don’t miss Then Café, a contemporary art space-cum-café, or Bình An Đường Café, which offers stunning views of the Imperial City moat.
Finish your morning at the entrance to the Imperial City, a magnificent walled area with tree-lined avenues, parks, and canals crossed by ancient bridges. Consider hiring a guide to make the most of your time exploring the royal courtrooms, administrative buildings, and religious structures of this UNESCO-listed site.
Lunch – Sample Hue’s famed vegan food at the idyllic Ngự Hà Garden or indulge in a more upmarket experience at Les Jardins de la Carambole.
Afternoon – After a well-deserved rest, it’s time to discover Hue’s legendary royal tombs. Choose two or three that appeal to you the most, as each offers a unique experience. Explore the oldest and least visited tomb of Emperor Gia Long or marvel at the beautifully landscaped tomb of Emperor Tự Đức. Don’t forget to visit the Nam Giao Esplanade and Từ Hiếu Pagoda, two memorable and rarely-visited sites full of Hue’s history.
Dinner – Savor traditional Hue cuisine at Thiên Tâm vegan restaurant or Không Gian Xưa, immersing yourself in the flavors of the city.
Day 2 – Pagodas, Palaces, and Garden Houses
Morning – Start your day with a visit to Bảo Quốc Pagoda, a 17th-century pagoda that has witnessed many changes over time. Wander along the leafy canal to Bến Ngự Market, drop by Phủ Cam church, or enjoy a mid-morning coffee at the hip Nghĩa Cafe.
Next, explore the must-see An Định Palace, a stunning royal residence built during the Nguyen Dynasty. Consider hiring a guide at the entrance on Nguyễn Huệ street to enhance your experience.
Lunch – Delight in Hue’s savory royal cakes at Bánh Bèo Hương, located next to An Đinh Palace.
Afternoon – Discover the charming garden house district of Kim Long, located north of the river. Explore the area on foot, by bicycle, or cyclo to soak up Hue’s quiet atmosphere. Marvel at the historic garden houses, some of which are open to the public. Don’t miss a visit to the serene Thiên Mụ Pagoda at sunset, where you can witness the sky painted in shades of pink and purple.
Dinner – Indulge in Hue delicacies at Huyền Anh or treat yourself to fine dining at La Residence Hotel, a restored 1930s art-deco mansion located near the river.
Day 3 – Hue Beaches, Hến Island, and the Chinese Quarter
Morning – Make the most of your final day by heading to Thuận An Beach, easily accessed by taxi or motorbike from the city. Enjoy stunning views of the Tam Giang Lagoon along the way and spend the morning swimming and relaxing at the beach. Indulge in a seafood lunch before returning to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Afternoon – Explore Hến Island and the Chinese Quarter, starting with a visit to the rural corner of Hến Island. If you’re feeling hungry, try some local delicacies, such as cơm hến or bún hến, which are mussels caught by the locals. Cross the river and discover the charming streets of Chi Lăng and Bạch Đằng, where you’ll find beautiful Chinese and Vietnamese shophouses, French buildings, and impressive temples.
Finish your journey in the Citadel, heading towards the front gate of the Imperial City that you visited on day one. As the sky fades, the lights illuminate the entrance, welcoming you to the ancient city of the Nguyen Kings.
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Hue is waiting to captivate you with its rich cultural heritage. Get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with history, cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes.
