Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, captivates visitors with its rich history and enchanting landscapes. The ‘Hue: Half Day Tour with Dragon Boat on Perfume River‘ offers an immersive experience, showcasing the city’s architectural wonders and natural beauty. From gliding along the serene Perfume River to exploring the grand Hue Citadel, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Hue’s cultural heritage. With a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation, travelers can discover the essence of this captivating destination. What surprises await as you delve deeper into Hue’s enchanting realm?
Good To Know
- This half-day tour in Hue includes a 30-minute dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, visits to Thien Mu Pagoda and Hue Citadel, and a stop at Thuy Tien Lake.
- The tour is priced from $26.37 per person and lasts 5-6 hours, with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
- Highlights of the tour include scenic views from the dragon boat, exploration of historic sites, and the opportunity for culture and photography.
- The tour package includes round-trip private car, English-speaking guide, travel insurance, and bottled water, with an additional entrance fee for the Imperial City.
- The tour has received a 5/5 rating based on customer feedback, with the guide’s knowledge of Vietnamese history and culture being particularly noteworthy.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Hue Half Day Tour with Dragon Boat on Perfume River is priced from $26.37 per person and lasts 5-6 hours.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour includes roundtrip private car transportation, an English-speaking guide, travel insurance, a dragon boat trip on the Perfume River, and bottled water.
The tour includes roundtrip private car transportation, an English-speaking guide, travel insurance, a dragon boat trip on the Perfume River, and bottled water.
Entrance to the Imperial City costs an additional 200,000 VND per person.
Based on 2 reviews, the tour has an overall 5/5 rating, with praise for the knowledgeable guide and well-paced itinerary allowing for enjoyment and photography.
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Itinerary and Destinations
The Hue Half Day Tour begins with pickup from the Hue city center.
The first stop is a 30-minute dragon boat cruise along the scenic Perfume River.
Next, visitors explore the historic Thien Mu Pagoda, a 400-year-old temple featuring the iconic Phuoc Duyen Tower.
The tour then moves to the Hue Citadel, the former imperial palace, for a 2-hour guided tour of its unique architecture.
The final stop is Thuy Tien Lake, an abandoned water park with a captivating atmosphere.
After the lake visit, the tour returns guests to their Hue hotel.
Highlights and Experiences
Highlights of the Hue Half Day Tour include the tranquil dragon boat ride along the Perfume River, which offers visitors scenic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Guests will also explore the historic Thien Mu Pagoda, a 400-year-old site featuring the iconic Phuoc Duyen Tower.
The historic Thien Mu Pagoda, a 400-year-old site, features the iconic Phuoc Duyen Tower, offering visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
Another highlight is the visit to the Hue Citadel, the royal palace of 13 Nguyen Dynasty kings, showcasing the unique architecture of this former capital.
Finally, the tour includes a visit to Thuy Tien Lake, an abandoned water park with a magical, otherworldly ambiance.
Perfume River Dragon Boat Cruise
What better way to take in the tranquil beauty of Hue than with a serene dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River? The 30-minute excursion offers a unique perspective of the city, showcasing its picturesque landscapes and historic landmarks. Gliding along the gentle waters, passengers can admire the Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic symbol of Hue, and the lush riverbanks dotted with imperial tombs and shrines. This enchanting experience allows travelers to fully connect with the serene ambiance of the Perfume River, leaving them with lasting memories of their Hue adventure.
| Duration | Highlights | Included | Price |
|———-|————|———-|——-|
| 30 mins | – Scenic views of Hue
– Thien Mu Pagoda | – Dragon boat ride
– Bottled water | From $26.37 per person |
Thien Mu Pagoda Exploration
Thien Mu Pagoda, an ancient Buddhist temple situated along the banks of the Perfume River, stands as a revered landmark in Hue.
Towering over the landscape, the pagoda’s iconic seven-tiered structure dates back over 400 years. Visitors can explore the pagoda’s grounds, admiring its impressive architecture and intricate carvings.
The highlight is the Phuoc Duyen Tower, a grand octagonal structure that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding river and countryside.
The pagoda also houses the historic Austin car that once transported the Buddhist monk Thích Quảng Đức to his self-immolation protest in Saigon.
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Hue Citadel Visit and Tour
After exploring the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, the tour moves on to the iconic Hue Citadel. This UNESCO World Heritage site was the former imperial capital of Vietnam, housing the royal palaces and temples of 13 Nguyen Dynasty kings. Visitors can wander through the elaborate architecture, admiring the unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French influences. The two-hour guided tour provides insights into the citadel’s history and significance.
| Experience | Emotion | Impression |
|————|———|————|
| Navigating the grand gates | Awe-inspiring | Majestic |
| Discovering the royal chambers | Enlightening | Captivating |
| Imagining the former imperial life | Intriguing | Immersive |
| Appreciating the architectural details | Admiring | Remarkable |
| Reflecting on Vietnam’s storied past | Contemplative | Profound |
Thuy Tien Lake Discovery
As the tour progresses, visitors are led to the enchanting Thuy Tien Lake, an abandoned water park that now exudes a captivating sense of solitude and mystery.
Nestled amidst lush greenery, the once-bustling attraction has been reclaimed by nature, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere.
Nestled amidst lush greenery, the once-bustling attraction has been reclaimed by nature, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere.
Travelers can explore the eerie aquarium, the decaying dinosaur statues, and the crumbling slides, all while seeing the lake’s serene ambiance.
The site offers a unique opportunity to witness the transient nature of human creations and the resilience of the natural world.
It’s a poignant yet fascinating stop on the Hue tour.
Inclusions and Customer Feedback
The tour package includes a round-trip private car, an English-speaking tour guide, and travel insurance. Also included are a dragon boat trip on the Perfume River and bottled water. Personal expenses and meals are not covered, and visitors must pay the 200,000 VND entrance fee for the Imperial City separately.
| Overall Rating | 5/5 |
| — | — |
| Number of Reviews | 2 |
| Noteworthy Feedback | Guide Lyly praised for extensive knowledge of Vietnamese history and culture. Tour well-paced for enjoyment and photography opportunities. |
Customer reviews praise the tour’s balance of activities and opportunities for photography, as well as the guide’s depth of knowledge about Vietnamese history and culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Bring My Own Life Jacket for the Dragon Boat?
No, you don’t need to bring your own life jacket for the dragon boat. The tour provider will provide life jackets for all passengers as part of the safety equipment for the boat ride.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Stops?
Yes, you can extend the tour duration or add additional stops. The tour operator offers flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your interests and time availability. Just let them know your preferences when booking.
Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?
The tour is available in other languages beyond English, such as French, German, and Japanese. Customers can request their preferred language when booking to ensure a guided experience tailored to their needs.
Are There Dietary Restrictions for the Included Bottled Water?
The bottled water included in the tour doesn’t have any dietary restrictions. It’s a standard bottled water offering to keep travelers hydrated during the tour.
Can I Leave the Tour Group to Explore Sites on My Own?
Participants can explore the tour sites independently, though it’s recommended to stay with the group for the guided portions to fully benefit from the tour. Advance notice to the guide is advised if planning to split off.
The Sum Up
This half-day tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Hue’s rich history and natural beauty. Travelers can enjoy the captivating sights and sounds of the Perfume River, revered Thien Mu Pagoda, and the majestic Hue Citadel. With comfortable transportation and an expert guide, this tour offers an enchanting and insightful experience for those eager to discover the enchanting city of Hue.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Boat Tours in Hue Vietnam
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