You might not think it at first or second glance, but this tranquil and conservative city has a lot to offer travelers! Located in the center of Vietnam on the bank of the picturesque Perfume River, Hue is our former royal capital for 150 years during feudal times (1802-1945), under the reigns of 13 Nguyen Kings. This city is well-known for its charming pagodas, palaces and emperors tombs, which represent the glories of imperial Vietnam.
Picking where to explore can be tricky as there are so many beautiful places, but that’s one thing we are really good at! Pop this handy little list in your pocket for next time you travel to Hue. Easy peasy.
Tam Giang Lagoon
Best place for sunset and seafood
This is one of the largest brackish water areas in Southeast Asia. This lagoon has spectacular natural landscapes and quiet beauty that’ll put your mind at rest and take your breath away. This vast open space is the best spot to watch the sunrise and sunset and to enjoy a variety of fresh seafood. The seafood here tastes sweeter than other places as most of it live in this natural water.
Vong Canh Hill
Best place for awe-inspiring views
Your arms are stretching wide, your lungs pumping fresh air and your eyes surveying this vast mind-numbing scenery on top of the hill. Here you’ll see the royal tombs of the Nguyen Kings such as the tomb of Minh Mang, Tomb of Khai Dinh, Tomb of Tu Duc, Thieu Tri Tomb, Dong Khanh Tomb, etc. The lovely views of the surrounding countryside will make you feel like you’ve escaped into a storybook. This hill especially lies on the most attractive curve of the Perfume River where you will get to admire the romantic views of Hue countryside.
Ru Cha Forest
Best place for wild adventures
Ru Cha forest is a rare mangrove forest, about 15km from Hue city. It’s one of the most precious gifts of nature to Hue. Here you’ll experience a boat trip to explore the wilderness, pristine landscapes, trek across hidden roads, learn about fisherman’s life and enjoy the local cuisine.
Sounds like an awesome adventure for nature lovers, don’t you think?
The dense, luscious and wildly-grown Cha trees cover more than 90% of the area makes this forest extremely mysterious and unspoiled. This forest is a shelter for different kinds of creatures including the white herons.
We encourage you to visit Hue in September to observe the beautiful golden autumn, unlike anywhere else on the planet. During this time, the forest is changing its coat, from green to yellow and red. This gorgeous ombre effect will bless your sight!
Huyen Khong Son Thuong Monastery
Best place for a quiet retreat
Not many people know about this monastery because of its location. It is hidden deep in the valley, surrounded by mountains and pine hills. If you are looking for a heavenly place to unwind, this one must be on your go-to list. It is located 300m above sea level, embraced by trees and lakes, so the atmosphere is peaceful and pleasant. Every corner of this hidden temple is meticulously decorated. Since there aren’t many tourists around this part, you will get to learn more about the simple life of the monks. Well, that’s not something you see every day!
Thien An Hill
Best place for picnics and camping
This mountainous area is a complex of many small and large rolling hills, created by French monks in the mid-20th century, Thien An gradually became a tourist attraction of Hue that you shouldn’t miss!
Thien An has a beautiful year-round climate, consistently cool and pleasant. Endowed to us by nature are the charming scenery, gentle hills, tall pine trees and lush greenery shining on Thuy Tien Lake. On sunny weekends, this hill is ideal for families and friends to go camping or have a little picnic.
Lap An Lagoon
Best place for picture-takers and relaxers
This lagoon is a big mirror of heaven and earth reflecting the green of majestic mountains and the blue of the sky. Lap An Lagoon is beautiful from dusk till dawn throughout all seasons, but it is best from March to June. You will find small boats of locals and giant fish nets on the water, bound by Bach Ma mountain. If you are looking for a place to take incredible pictures that are sure to make your friends back home green with envy, this is it!
The Imperial City Of Hue
The Imperial City of Hue is definitely kicking at all fronts. Despite being largely damaged by a fire in 1947 and bombing during the Vietnam wars, there is still a lot to see and the remaining buildings are continually restored. It is a place with a soul and is rich in meaning, symbology, and history. Here you’ll step into the past, where the emperor and his confidants used to live and work. This imperial complex is the heart of Hue and speaks of the city’s heritage.
Ready to explore Hue? We can’t wait for your visit! Xuan Tu Vietnam Tours is full of customized itineraries and private tours for travelers like you! Feel free to have a snoop around our website, drop us a message and you’re in for an unforgettable and unique travel experience in Vietnam!