Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. A full-day city tour provides an opportunity to take in this historic destination. Visitors can explore the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, wander through the grandeur of the Imperial Citadel, and discover the intricate tombs of Khai Dinh and Minh Mang. With a delectable local lunch and expert guidance, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Uncover the treasures of Hue and gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s captivating past.
Good To Know
- A full-day guided tour in Hue, Vietnam, priced at $86.65 per person, covering iconic sites like Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial Citadel, Khai Dinh Tomb, and Minh Mang Tomb.
- The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a boat ride on Perfume River, lunch at a local restaurant, and an English-speaking guide.
- Participants must be prepared for extensive walking and bring cash for the entry ticket fee of 470,000 VND.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and participants are advised to bring sun protection gear.
- The tour starts with a 30-minute boat ride on Perfume River and concludes with visits to a conical hat and incense-making village.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Hue City Tour is a full-day guided excursion that allows visitors to explore the historic and cultural landmarks of Hue, Vietnam.
Priced at $86.65 per person, the tour lasts 8.5 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat ride on the Perfume River, lunch at a local restaurant, and an English-speaking guide.
Participants can visit iconic sites like the Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial Citadel, Khai Dinh Tomb, and Minh Mang Tomb.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is offered.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
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Itinerary Highlights
After hotel pickup, the tour begins with a 30-minute boat ride along the Perfume River.
Visitors then explore the Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s oldest pagoda dating back to 1601.
Hue’s oldest pagoda, the Thien Mu Pagoda, dates back to 1601 and is explored by visitors.
Next, they spend 2 hours discovering the Imperial Citadel, the former home of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Lunch at a local restaurant follows.
The tour continues with visits to the Khai Dinh Tomb and the Minh Mang Tomb.
The final stop is a conical hat and incense-making village, offering photo opportunities and insights into traditional crafts.
The tour then returns guests to their hotel in Hue.
Tour Inclusions
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat ride on the Perfume River, lunch at a local restaurant, an English-speaking guide, and entrance fees to all the sites visited. The tour’s inclusions are summarized in the table below:
| Included | Not Included |
| — | — |
| Hotel Pickup & Drop-off | Personal Expenses |
| Perfume River Boat Ride | Tips |
| Lunch at Local Restaurant | |
| English-Speaking Guide | |
| Site Entrance Fees | |
Participants will need to bring cash (470,000 VND per person) to cover the entry ticket cost. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for this full-day tour.
Important Information for Participants
According to the provided information, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, the tour organizers recommend the following:
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves extensive walking at historical sites.
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay protected from the sun and heat.
Be mindful of the rules at the historical sites, as smoking and food/drink consumption are prohibited.
Plus, participants should have cash on hand to cover the entry ticket fee of 470,000 VND per person.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPickup and Drop-off
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, providing a convenient start and end to the day’s exploration. Guests can expect a reliable and punctual service, with the tour guide coordinating pickup times to ensure a smooth start to the tour.
| Pickup Location | Pickup Time | Drop-off Location |
| ————— | ———– | —————– |
| Hotel in Hue | 8:30 AM | Hotel in Hue |
| Airport in Hue | 9:00 AM | Hotel in Hue |
| Train Station | 8:45 AM | Hotel in Hue |
This door-to-door service allows travelers to maximize their time, focusing on the rich cultural experience rather than logistical challenges. The tour concludes with a drop-off at the original pickup location, ensuring a seamless return to one’s accommodation.
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Boat Ride on Perfume River
What better way to start the Hue City Tour than with a tranquil boat ride along the Perfume River? The 30-minute voyage offers:
Serene views of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Thien Mu Pagoda, from a unique vantage point.
Opportunities to observe local life along the riverbanks, where residents engage in traditional activities like fishing and laundry.
A peaceful introduction to the city’s rich history and culture, setting the tone for the day’s exploration.
This relaxing start to the tour allows visitors to enjoy Hue’s picturesque riverside setting before delving into the city’s fascinating heritage.
Exploring the Imperial Citadel
After the serene boat ride, the tour proceeds to the iconic Imperial Citadel, the former home of the Nguyen Dynasty. Spanning 520 hectares, this vast complex houses over 100 monuments, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Vietnam’s last imperial dynasty. Visitors spend two hours exploring the grounds, admiring the fusion of Vietnamese and European architectural styles. The tour highlights key attractions within the Citadel, including:
| Attraction | Duration | Highlights |
| — | — | — |
| Ngo Mon Gate | 15 mins | Grand entrance gate |
| Thai Hoa Palace | 30 mins | Ornate throne room |
| Forbidden Purple City | 45 mins | Former emperor’s residence |
| Ancestral Temple | 30 mins | Spiritual heart of the complex |
Customer Feedback and Recommendations
Customers have provided mixed feedback regarding the Hue City Tour.
While the overall rating is 4.5/5 based on 4 reviews, some customers suggest areas for improvement:
Time allocation: Some reviewers felt the tour was rushed, with insufficient time spent at each site for in-depth exploration.
Site focus: Some customers recommend a more focused tour on specific attractions like the Imperial Citadel, rather than trying to cover multiple sites in a single day.
Accessibility: The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, which may be a consideration for some travellers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Sites?
Yes, the tour can be customized to visit specific sites. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator and request adjustments to the itinerary to focus on the attractions they’re most interested in.
Are Guide Tips and Meals Included in the Tour Price?
No, guide tips and personal expenses are not included in the tour price. The tour package includes hotel pickup/drop-off, boat ride, lunch, English-speaking guide, and entrance fees. Participants will need to pay for tips and any additional personal expenses.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The full-day tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, but customers can request more time at specific sites or a less rushed pace. The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, boat ride, lunch, and entrance fees.
Can We Take a Break During the Tour to Rest?
Yes, the tour includes a lunch break at a local restaurant, which provides an opportunity to rest and recharge. Plus, the tour’s flexible schedule allows for short breaks as needed during the various site visits.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
The tour operator offers group discounts for bookings of 4 or more people. Guests can save up to 15% off the per person rate by booking as a group. It’s best to inquire about current group pricing when making the reservation.
The Sum Up
This full-day Hue city tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the Perfume River, marvel at the grandeur of the Imperial Citadel, and discover the intricate tombs and pagodas that define Hue’s unique identity. With convenient hotel pickup and a local expert guide, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to take in the history and beauty of this captivating Vietnamese destination.
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