Hue Walking Tour to Imperial City and Dong Ba Market

Enjoy Vietnam’s rich history and vibrant culture on the Hue Walking Tour. Explore the former imperial capital’s iconic Imperial City and bustling Dong Ba Market, where you’ll uncover architectural gems and savor local delicacies. With expert guidance, this captivating 3-hour experience offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Hue’s captivating past while embracing its contemporary allure. Prepare to be swept away by the city’s timeless charm and leave with a deeper appreciation for its enduring legacy.

Good To Know

• The Hue Walking Tour offers a 3-hour exploration of Hue’s historical and cultural heritage, including the Imperial City and Dong Ba Market.
• Key sites visited on the tour include the Nine Holy Cannons, Noon Gate, Flag Tower, Supreme Harmony Palace, and the Forbidden Purple City.
• Visitors can experience the vibrant atmosphere of Dong Ba Market, browse traditional wares and handicrafts, and sample the iconic Bun Bo Hue.
• The tour includes an English-speaking guide, water, and admission fees, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Comfortable attire and footwear are recommended, and photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited inside the palace grounds.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Hue Walking Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the rich historical and cultural heritage of Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam.

Enjoy the rich history and culture of Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital, on the Hue Walking Tour.

Priced from $16 per person, the 3-hour tour takes guests through the iconic Imperial City and bustling Dong Ba Market.

Highlights include the Nine Holy Cannons, Noon Gate, and the Forbidden Purple City.

Visitors can also savor the famous Bun Bo Hue noodle soup.

The tour includes an English-speaking guide, water, and admission fees.

Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and camera are recommended.

The tour operates daily, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Itinerary Highlights

The Imperial City, a walled enclosure within the citadel, is the centerpiece of the Hue Walking Tour.

Visitors will explore key sites like the Nine Holy Cannons, Noon Gate, and Flag Tower. They’ll also visit the Supreme Harmony Palace, Nine Dynastic Urns, The Mieu Temple, Dien Tho Palace, and the Forbidden Purple City.

After seeing the history and architecture of the former imperial capital, the tour continues to Dong Ba Market, one of Hue’s largest and oldest local markets.

Here, guests can shop, bargain, and sample the iconic Vietnamese Spicy Beef Noodle Soup (Bun Bo Hue).

The Imperial City

At the heart of the Hue Walking Tour lies the Imperial City, a walled enclosure within the citadel that once served as the former imperial capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen dynasty. Exploring this historic site, visitors can marvel at the architectural wonders, including the:

| Key Sites | Description |

| — | — |

| Nine Holy Cannons | Impressive bronze cannons guarding the Citadel |

| Noon Gate | The main entrance to the Imperial City |

| Flag Tower | A symbolic landmark overlooking the Citadel |

| Supreme Harmony Palace | The emperor’s residence and seat of power |

| Forbidden Purple City | The inner sanctum, off-limits to commoners |

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich imperial legacy and cultural heritage.

Dong Ba Market

Dong Ba Market, one of the largest and oldest local markets in Hue, offers visitors a captivating cultural experience.

Dong Ba Market, one of the largest and oldest local markets in Hue, offers visitors a captivating cultural experience.

As part of the Hue Walking Tour, guests can explore this vibrant marketplace and:

1. Immerse themselves in the hustle and bustle of local life.

2. Browse stalls selling a variety of traditional wares, from handicrafts to fresh produce.

3. Engage in friendly bargaining with the vendors.

4. Savor the iconic Vietnamese Spicy Beef Noodle Soup (Bun Bo Hue) for a culinary delight.

The Dong Ba Market visit provides a unique opportunity to interact with the local community and gain a deeper understanding of Hue’s rich cultural heritage.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Culinary Experience

What better way to take in Hue’s culinary traditions than by savoring the iconic Vietnamese Spicy Beef Noodle Soup (Bun Bo Hue)?

As part of the Hue Walking Tour, travelers can taste this local delicacy. The rich, fragrant broth is simmered with lemongrass, chili peppers, and tender beef.

Diners can customize their bowl with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime. This slurp-worthy dish offers a flavorful introduction to the unique regional cuisine of Hue, where the legacy of the Nguyen Dynasty is reflected in its distinct culinary style.

Historical Context

The Hue Walking Tour offers visitors a glimpse into the rich historical context of the Imperial City, which served as the capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen dynasty.

Guests will learn about:

1. The Nguyen Dynasty’s influence on the city’s architectural styles, which blend Chinese and Vietnamese elements.

2. The significance of the Imperial City as the former seat of power, mirroring the layout of the Forbidden City in Beijing.

3. The various historical sites within the walled enclosure, including the Nine Holy Cannons, Noon Gate, and the Forbidden Purple City.

4. The cultural heritage and traditions that have been preserved within the Imperial City over the centuries.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The Hue Walking Tour includes an English-speaking guide who provides in-depth knowledge about the historical significance of the sites visited.

Visitors receive a water bottle and enjoy a light meal of the iconic Bun Bo Hue. Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the entrance fee of 200,000 VND per person, are also covered.

However, personal expenses, tips, and additional food and drinks inside the Imperial City aren’t included. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water.

Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited within the palace grounds.

Important Information

Not suitable for children under 6 years and wheelchair users, the Hue Walking Tour requires guests to be able to walk comfortably.

Visitors should bring:

• Comfortable shoes for exploring the historic sites

• A hat and sunscreen for protection from the sun

• A camera to capture the stunning imperial architecture

• Water to stay hydrated during the 3-hour tour

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so it’s essential to dress appropriately.

Photography is allowed, but flash photography is prohibited inside the palace buildings to preserve their cultural significance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour information doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, many walking tours limit groups to 15-20 participants to ensure an intimate and personalized experience. Exact group size may vary based on demand and logistics.

Are Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention student or senior discounts. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator as they may offer discounted rates for certain groups upon request.

How Physically Demanding Is the Walking Portion of the Tour?

The walking portion of the tour involves moderate exertion. Visitors will explore the Imperial City and Dong Ba Market on foot, covering a few miles over 3 hours. Comfortable shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Include Additional Activities?

The tour provider doesn’t offer an extension option, but they can customize the itinerary for visitors who’d like to add more activities based on their interests and available time. Guests should inquire about customization when booking.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Inside the Imperial City?

According to the tour overview, personal food and drinks are not included in the tour and are prohibited inside the Imperial City. Visitors should rely on the light meal (Bun Bo Hue) provided as part of the tour.

The Sum Up

The Hue Walking Tour provides an immersive cultural experience, exploring the Imperial City’s architectural wonders and immersing in the vibrant Dong Ba Market. With knowledgeable guides, travelers can discover the unique blend of Vietnamese and Chinese influences, savor the renowned Bun Bo Hue, and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history. At $16 per person, this 3-hour tour offers an enriching and affordable way to experience the former imperial capital.

You can check if your dates are available here: