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Imperial City, Hue

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The Imperial City in Hue, Vietnam is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a glimpse into the royal past of the Nguyen Dynasty. Visitors can explore the well-preserved palaces, temples, and gardens that tell the story of Vietnam's last imperial family amidst beautiful architecture and historical artifacts.
4.8 out of 5 stars
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7013 reviews
Average activity duration: 2-3 hours
Thành phố Huế, Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam
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Imperial City, Hue: Our most recommended tours and activities

Hue: Full-Day City Group Tour

Hue: Full-Day City Group Tour

Start your day with pickup from your hotel or meet point in Hue City Centre and head to the Imperial City. Built in 1802 by the first king of Vietnam’s last feudal dynasty, the citadel was the living and working place of 13 Nguyen Dynasty kings. Next, visit the Ancient Hue Garden House and explore the unique architecture and feng shui. Delve into the historical value of the residence and workplace of the Nguyen Dynasty’s officials. Proceed to the Thien Mu Pagoda, the most sacred ancient temple in Central Vietnam. Explore the beautiful architectural works and listen to the history and mystical spiritual stories of the pagoda. After the morning tour, board a dragon boat and sail down the Perfume River. Be immersed in the charming scenery and indulge in the dreamy cuisine of Hue. After lunch, continue to the Thuy Xuan Conical Hat and Incense Village. Witness the radiant beauty of meticulously and skillfully displayed incense bundles lining both sides of the streets. Next, visit the Tu Duc Tomb, renowned as one of the most beautiful works of the Nguyen Dynasty. With its refined architecture and picturesque landscape, the tomb was constructed to resonate with the romantic, dreamy yet profound and sagacious soul of this king. Continue to the Khai Dinh Tomb, situated on Chau Chu mountain. Although the tomb is smaller in size compared to the tombs of other kings, it is meticulously crafted, blending the exquisite architecture and culture of both East and West. Finally, visit Vong Canh Hill, a favored spot for the Nguyen Kings to rest and enjoy the view. Known for its perfect beauty combining the mountains and rivers of romantic Hue, it is a great destination for tourists. After a full day of sightseeing, return to your hotel in Hue.

Da Nang: Hue Imperial Day Trip, Hai Van Pass Train, & Lunch

Da Nang: Hue Imperial Day Trip, Hai Van Pass Train, & Lunch

Experience the picturesque Hai Van Pass on a unique train ride from Da Nang to Hue. Travel back in time to the ancient city of Hue and explore its prime attractions, including the Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Khai Dinh Royal Tomb. Choose from a tour that includes pre-purchased tickets to the Hue Imperial city, the Khai Dinh Tomb, and the Thien Mu pagoda, or pick the option that does not include tickets and get help from your guide with purchasing tickets on-site. Start with an early morning pickup from accommodations in the city center Da Nang and relax on the comfortable transfer to the Da Nang Train Station. Board the train and begin a journey through diverse landscapes. Pass through the countryside, the iconic Hai Van Pass, and lush mountains. Arrive at Lang Co station in Hue and hop aboard a comfortable bus. Head to the city's prime attraction, the Citadel. Step back in time as you hear stories about the last dynasty of Vietnam Wander through the vast complex which contains the Imperial City, the Forbidden Purple City, and the Emperor's private residence, and find out about Vietnam's last dynasty, the Nguyen dynasty. Discover architectural masterpieces such like temples, pavilions, gardens, and the city gates. Have lunch with local specialties at a restaurant. After lunch, depart to Thien Mu Pagoda, an active Buddhist monastery. Admire its 7-story pagoda, the unofficial symbol of the city. Snap pictures of this pagoda which is located on the bank of the poetic Perfume River. Continue to the serene Khai Dinh Royal Tomb, the final resting place of a Nguyen Emperor. Admire the tomb's unique architectural design and learn more about the many myths and legends that surround this controversial emperor before heading back to your hotel in Da Nang in the early evening.

Hue Walking Tour to Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City

Hue Walking Tour to Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City

Agreed Time: Our Friendly & Informative Tour Guide will pick you up at 4 Holy Cannons of Ngan Gate of the Citadel (Cửa Ngăn) for Hue Imperial City Walking Tour. Today, we will have about 2.5 hours walking in the Hue Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City to learn about History of Hue and Vietnamese Royal Culture with: Nine Holy Cannons (Cửu Vị Thần Công): 9 cannons that Hue artisans cast in Gia Long's second year (1803). Nine cannons are considered as one of the most valuable bronze works of art. The ancient nine cannons were placed at the foot of the Imperial Citadel, at the entrance of the Ngo Mon Gate - the imperial city of Hue. During the reign of King Khai Dinh, they were relocated to their current position. Noon Gate (South Gate - Ngọ Môn Huế): Built in 1833 in the traditional Vietnamese style under the rule of King Minh Mang and used by the Kings for troop movements and ceremonies. Flag Tower (Kỳ Đài Huế): an architectural monument of the Nguyen Dynasty located in the middle of the south face of Hue citadel within the Nam Chanh fortress which is also the place to hang the flag of the royal court. Supreme Hamorny Palace (Điện Thái Hòa): This Palace is located in the Imperial City area of Hue citadel, which is the coronation place of 13 Nguyen kings from Gia Long to Bao Dai. In feudal regimes, this palace was considered the center of the country. Nine Dynastic Urns (Cửu Đỉnh Huế): These are nine bronze urns, located in front of The Mieu Temple in Hue Imperial Citadel. The Nine Peaks was commissioned by Emperor Minh Mang in the winter of 1835 and inaugurated on March 1, 1837. The Mieu Temple (Thế Miếu Huế): The Mieu also called The To Mieu built in 1821 by Second Kings of the Nguyen Dynasty - Minh Mang. This is a temple to worship 10 Kings of the Nguyen Dynasty. Forbidden Purple City (Tử Cấm Thành Huế): The Forbidden Purple City belongs to a complex of the ancient capital of Hue, which is the center of daily life of the Kings, their Queens, Minor Wives and Cocubines of the Nguyen's Emperors. The Forbidden City is located behind the Thai Hoa palace, was first built by King Gia Long (1804). In the third year of Minh Mang's reign (1822), the king changed the name into Forbidden Purple City. After Hue Forbidden Purple City, our local guide will say good bye to you, and we finish our fantastic Hue Imperial City Walking Tour. You can have your own time to discover more about life of locals in the area of Hue Citadel.

From Hoi An/Da Nang: Hue Imperial City Group Tour with Lunch

From Hoi An/Da Nang: Hue Imperial City Group Tour with Lunch

Begin with pickup from your accommodation in Hoi An or Danang before setting off to Hue. Make your way along one of the best coastal roads in the world, the Hai Van Pass. You'll also stop at the beautiful Lap An Lagoon (Lang Co town) where you can take some photos. Next, head to the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh, a celebrated Vietnamese emperor, and admire the elaborate architecture of the tomb. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant and enjoy some specialty regional cuisine. Continue to the main attraction of Hue, the Imperial City. Explore the area and check out the impressive structures. Finally, stop at the Thien Mu Pagoda, the largest in the city Hue. Afterward, return to your accommodation.

Hue: Private Car To/From Hoi An Via Fabulous Stops (One-Way)

Hue: Private Car To/From Hoi An Via Fabulous Stops (One-Way)

NOTICE : THIS IS ONE-WAY TRIP . - IF YOU CHOOSE TO BE PICK UP IN HUE, YOU WIlL BE DROPPED OFF IN HOI AN _IF YOU CHOOSE TO BE PICK UP IN HOI AN, YOU WILL BE DROPPED OFF IN HUE WE OFFER MANY OPTIONS WITH PRODUCT. THE DESCRIPTION BELOW IS A ONE OF THE OPTIONS THAT WE OFFER . PLEASE SCROLL DOWN TO SEE THEM WHEN YOU CHECK AVAILABLITITY AND PLEASE SELECT THE OPTION YOU WANT TO CHOOSE. ——————————————— After picking you up at your hotel in Hue ( or Hoi An ) , you will begin your coastal excursion with beautiful roadside scenery . You will have many stop points to sightseeing such as : - Lap An Lagoon - Surrounded by verdant trees and full of crystal-clear water, see the locals living their daily lives in harmony with the nature around them. At the lagoon , there are coffee shop where you can take a rest. - Lang Co Bay - the next town you’ll stop at is the serene fishing township of Lang Co. This village’s incredible beach was recognized in 2009 as one of the 30 most beautiful bays in the world. - Hai Van Pass - This is one of the most scenic hillside roads in Vietnam. At the top of the pass, there are vestiges of an ancient fortified gateway. The American and French bunkers in Hai Van Pass provide views of the city. - Finally, visit the Marble Mountains, famous for the image of rocky peaks rising above city . You’ll see many beautiful caves and pagodas . You’ll then be dropped off at the location of your choice in Hoi An or Da Nang ( or drop off at Hue if you choose to pick up in Hoi An ) ———————————————. This is some attractions you can add to the itinerary described above when you choose Option 2 / Option 3 / Option 4 / Option 5 / Option 6/ Option 7/ Option 8 - Option 2: Monkey mountain ( Linh Ung pagoda ) - Linh Ung pagoda is now considered as the largest pagoda in Da Nang City . Linh Ung pagoda is considered as a work stamped development footprint of Buddhism in Vietnam - Option 3: An Bang Cemetery ( City of ghosts ) . It is considered the most luxurious and magnificent cemetery in Vietnam, with thousands of tombs of all colors and sizes, some of which are worth hundreds thousand US dollar. - Option 4: Golden Bridge. This bridge is located at the Ba Na Hills tourism resort complex and amusement park . The Golden Bridge is nested at the height of 1,414 meters from sea level. The Golden Bridge is no less than an iconic architectural wonder that envisages the sash-like route across heaven - Option 5: Option 2 + Option 3 (Monkey mountain- Linh Ung Pagoda + An Bang Cemetery - City of Ghosts). - Option 6: Visit 3 must - see attractions in Hue city (Imperial City - Khai Dinh tomb - Thien Mu pagoda) - Option 7: My Son Temple was recognized by World Heritage UNESCO in 1999. It is a complex with 70 constructions of Champa Kingdom monuments. My Son sanctuary contains the values of history, culture, architecture, and art in a long period of 9 centuries _ Option 8: Option 3 + Option 4 (An Bang Cemetery-City of Ghosts + Golden Bridge-Ba Na Hill)

Imperial City, Hue: Day Tour from Hoi An and Da Nang

Imperial City, Hue: Day Tour from Hoi An and Da Nang

Travel back to the Nguyen Dynasty on a multi-stop tour from Hoi An and Da Nang to Hue. See the Imperial City, the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh, and the Thien Mu Pagoda. Get a taste of Hue cuisine during lunch at a local restaurant. Following pickup in Hoi An, the journey to Hue begins by crossing one of the best coastal roads in the world, the Hai Van Pass. Take advantage of a 30-minute stop at the peak and 5 minutes to take photos at Lang Co Beach.  After a final round of pickup in Da Nang, visit the Khai Dinh Tomb, a blend of Western and Eastern architecture 19th century construction. Then, enjoy lunch at a local specialty restaurant serving Hue-style dishes.  With a full stomach of local cuisine, continue to Hue’s main attraction, the Imperial Citadel. Once the home of the Nguyen Emperor, the citadel also contains the Forbidden Purple City. Explore Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s largest pagoda. Built in 1601, it is the subject of many local folk rhymes and is considered the unofficial symbol of Hue. Finish the day with drop-off back in Da Nang and Hoi An.

Hue : Private City Tour - Customize Your Own Itinerary

Hue : Private City Tour - Customize Your Own Itinerary

NOTICE : - We offer many options with this product, please swipe up to see them when you check availability and please select the option corresponding to the number of sites you want to visit ————————————————— You will be pick up from your hotel in Hue city following your request time and begin the trip . • Imperial City. Visit the headquarters of the last feudal dynasty of Vietnam, where the Nguyen kings lived and worked for 143 years, from 1802 to 1945. • Minh Mang Tomb and see how its magnificent architecture blends in with the surrounding natural environment. • Khai Dinh tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire its outstanding architecture, being the last construction of the Nguyen Dynasty • Tu Duc tomb , the 4th king of the Nguyen Dynasty. Immerse yourself in nature, admire the poetic architectural beauty at the burial place of one of the longest-reigning kings of the Nguyen Dynasty . • Thuy Xuan Hue incense village, dating back 700 years, was a traditional incense-making village in the Nguyen Dynasty. It was once a supply center for the royal court and locals in the Thuan Hoa and Phu Xuan areas. Despite changes, the Hue incense village remains preserved and developed, with generations passing down the craft from generation to generation. The incense sticks were produced in two basic colors, brown and red, serving the spiritual life of locals and visitors. • An Dinh Palace where the Khai Dinh Emperor lived from a child until becoming the twelfth Emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty as a private residence. Between 1917-1919Nguyen Phuc Vinh Thuy (later Bao Dai Emperor) was renovated in a modern style and became the residence officially. • Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the most beautiful pagodas in Hue with 400 years old . Learn about its long history and marvel at its unique architecture. • Tu Hieu pagoda known as the famous “root pagoda” of Zen master Thích Nhất Hạnh, Từ Hiếu Pagoda is not only a place for the monks to lead an awakening life but also for anyone who wishes to find a serene haven to escape from the busy life or to learn meditation. • Abandoned water park is a favorite tourist destination for those who like to explore, experience and admire the magical and mysterious beauty. Driver will dropped you off back at your hotel at the end of the trip .

Hue: Private Car to/from Hoi An via Multi Attractions(1-Way)

Hue: Private Car to/from Hoi An via Multi Attractions(1-Way)

NOTICE : THIS IS ONE-WAY TRIP , YOU CAN CHOOSE TO BE PICK UP AT HUE/HOI AN AND THEN DROP OFF AT HOI AN/ HUE . THE DESCRIPTION BELOW IS A ONE OF THE OPTIONS THAT WE OFFER . WE OFFER A WIDE VARIETY OPTIONS WITH MANY DIFFERENT ATTRACTIONS BETWEEN HUE AND HOI AN . PLEASE SWIPE UP WHEN YOU CHECK AVAILABILITY TO SEE THE OTHER OPTIONS AND SELECT THE OPTION THAT YOU WANT —————————— After picking you up at your hotel in Hue ( or Hoi An ) , you will begin your coastal excursion with beautiful roadside scenery such as : - Lap An Lagoon - Surrounded by verdant trees and full of crystal-clear water, see the locals living their daily lives in harmony with the nature around them. - Lang Co Bay - This village’s incredible beach was recognized in 2009 as one of the 30 most beautiful bays in the world. - Hai Van Pass - This is one of the most scenic hillside roads in Vietnam. At the top of the pass, there are vestiges of an ancient fortified gateway. The American and French bunkers in Hai Van Pass provide views of the city - Finally, visit the Marble Mountains, famous for the image of rocky peaks rising above city . You’ll see many beautiful caves and pagodas . Learn about Buddhism, and see religious architecture in harmony with nature. You’ll then be dropped off at the location of your choice in Hoi An/Da Nang ( or drop off at Hue if you choose to pick up in Hoi An/Da Nang ) ————————— This is some attractions you can add to the itinerary described above when you choose Opt 2 / Opt 3 / Opt 4 / Opt 5 / Opt 6 / Opt 7 / Opt 8 / Opt 9 - Opt 2 : Monkey Mt ( Linh Ung pagoda ) - The largest pagoda in Da Nang . This pagoda is considered as a work stamped development footprint of Buddhism in Vietnam - Opt 3 : Nhi Ho Waterfall is a stunning waterfall that nature has generously gifted upon Hue City. The natural beauty here is as magnificent as an ink painting, nestled in the midst of unspoiled mountains and forests that have not been exploited by humanity. - Opt 4 : An Bang Cemetery ( City of ghosts ) . It is considered the most luxurious and magnificent cemetery in Vietnam, with thousands of tombs of all colors and sizes, some of which are worth hundreds thousand US dollar ( RECOMMENDED OPTION ) - Opt 5 : Golden Bridge - located at the Ba Na Hills tourism complex . The Golden Bridge is nested at the height of 1,414 meters from sea level. The Golden Bridge is no less than an iconic architectural wonder that envisages the sash-like route across heaven - Opt 6 : My Son Temple was recognized by World Heritage UNESCO in 1999. It is a complex with 70 constructions of Champa Kingdom monuments. My Son sanctuary contains the values of history, culture, architecture, and art in a long period of 9 centuries - Opt 7 : Visit 3 must - see attractions in Hue city ( Imperial City - Khai Dinh tomb - Thien Mu pagoda ) - Opt 8 : Opt 2 + Opt 4 ( Monkey Mt + City of Ghost ) ( RECOMMENDED OPTION ) - Opt 9 : Opt 2 + Opt 3 ( Monkey Mt + Nhi Ho waterfall ) ( RECOMMENDED OPTION )

Da Nang: Golden Bridge, Lady Buddha, Marble Mt & Am Phu Cave

Da Nang: Golden Bridge, Lady Buddha, Marble Mt & Am Phu Cave

Start the trip, you will be pick up at your hotel in Da Nang city following your desired time First , Marble Mountains, famous for the image of rocky peaks rising above the roofs of homes and resorts. As the road curves towards the mountain, you’ll see large stone dragons and seated figures of Buddha. Learn about Buddhism, and see religious architecture in harmony with nature. - Am Phu cave is Da Nang’s longest natural cave (300 meters). Its entrance is at the foot of Hon Thuy Son (the Water mountain) – the largest of the Marble mountains. Meaning that the cave is a part of the Marble mountains. It’s famous for its name, its extensive chambers and its historic role in the Vietnam war. In addition, this marvel connects with Buddhist culture about life after death, and karma. After that , you will go to Linh Ung pagoda - located at monkey mountain , this pagoda is now considered as the largest pagoda in Da Nang City in both scale and art of architecture. Linh Ung pagoda is considered as a work stamped development footprint of Buddhism in Vietnam in the XXI century and a meeting place of heaven and earth’s sacred air and people’s heart. Next , you will visit Golden bridge : this bridge is located at the Ba Na Hills entertainment and tourism resort complex . Golden bridge nested at the height of 1,414m from the sea level, the Golden Bridge is no less than an iconic architectural wonder that envisages the sash-like route across the heaven Finish the trip , you will be drop off at your hotel at Da Nang city center

From Da Nang: Hue Imperial City Full-Day Tour

From Da Nang: Hue Imperial City Full-Day Tour

Embark on a captivating journey to explore the timeless architectural wonders of the ancient imperial capital, Hue, featuring the Perfume River, the Citadel, and the Kings' tombs. Itinerary: 7:30 – 8:10 am: Your tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Da Nang City, initiating the journey to Hue. En route: Enjoy a stop at Lap An Lagoon, an ideal spot for relaxation and stunning photographs also learn about the traditional local job of pearl farms or tea-tree leaves oil cooking family. 11:00 am: Visit the Khai Dinh Royal Tomb, a captivating blend of Western and Eastern architectural influences. 11:30 - 12:30: Indulge in a delightful Vietnamese-style local lunch at a nearby restaurant. Explore the renowned Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the most beautiful and famous pagodas in Hue. Arrive and explore the Hue Citadel - Hue Imperial City, situated on the northern bank of the Perfume River. The Citadel encompasses the Purple Forbidden City and is the administrative and political center of the Nguyen dynasty, serving as the residence for the king and royal family. (In Hue Imperial City, we will visit some important parts of the city, not the whole city) Conclude the tour in Hue, and the driver will transport you back to your hotel. (For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change)

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What people are saying about Imperial City, Hue

Overall rating

4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8
(7,096 reviews)
5
5 out of 5 stars

The tour experience was great. Hai was on time and provided great information on the pagoda and tombs we visited as we drove around. The 4 hours was a good amount of time to do the boat and see the pagoda and two tombs given the heat in June.

5
5 out of 5 stars

We had a lovely, relaxed and informative tour with Linh, who spoke great English and told us interesting stories about the location. It was particularly hot and she allowed time to cool off inbetween the tour points of interest!

5
5 out of 5 stars

Recommend this as an option as we used this to travel between Hue and Hoi an. Guide was courteous and provided great options for sightseeing along route.

5
5 out of 5 stars

Hiểu did an amazing job at guiding, had great knowledge and was very thoughtful. Trip is a long day, however it was fun, and a great day nonetheless

5
5 out of 5 stars

Marianna did fantastic job showing us around the Emperor City Hue, and Hai Van. I recommend her.