Hue is an attractive city not only for the beauty of its culture, its history, but also for the friendliness and hospitality of the people here. In this ancient capital, you can come across the suave and tender smile of a local native or a romantic October rain… All these beautiful characteristics make the city of Hue mark the spirit of its visitors.
Here are the 8 must-see tourist sites of this beautiful city for you to discover:
Those who come to Hue without visiting the following 9 tourist spots will not be able to fully understand the beauty of this romantic city!
1. The Heavenly Lady Pagoda
Placed on the left bank of the Perfume River, on the Ha Khê hill, the pagoda of the Heavenly Lady is located around a natural and romantic space. It is the source of inspiration for many artistic works.
Grace Tower (Phước Duyên) can be seen from afar. It is the symbol not only of this pagoda but also of Hue. By coming here and listening to the ringing of the bell, you will be able to feel peace in your soul at the sound of the bell.
All the Imperial Palaces
Located on the banks of the romantic Perfume River, the Ensemble of the Imperial Palaces of Hué as well as all the cultural monuments are listed as world cultural heritage by UNESCO. This set includes the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City, both surrounded by the Citadel.
By visiting this set, you will contemplate the splendid palaces, the sacred temples… It will also be an opportunity for you to study history, you will also be able to observe the architecture of the Nguyễn Dynasty. More specifically, the Citadel opens to welcome visitors from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
2. The tomb of Tự Đức
Found in a narrow valley of Dương Xuân Thượng village, Cu Chi district, the tomb of Tự Đức (also known as Khiêm Lăng) is the most beautiful among the 7 tombs of emperors of the Nguyễn Dynasty. Why?
You will find the answer when you visit this tomb. It is located in a vast natural area. Surrounded by trees, near a large lake. It attracts many visitors with its architecture, the harmony of the surrounding nature and a certain ambient peace.
3. The tomb of Khải Định
Built on Châu Chư mountain, the tomb of Khải Định is the final resting place of the 12th emperor of the Nguyễn Dynasty. Its area is smaller than other tombs but it was ingeniously built with effort for 10 years.
It is the only tomb whose architecture is the result of the union between Eastern and Western cultures. This mixture is illustrated by splendid ceramic and glass reliefs, tea trays, the crown… or even modern decorations such as the tennis racket, and the oil lamp…
4. The Perfume River
The Perfume River is the emblem and pride of Hue. It flows gently like a long strip of silk through the middle of the ancient capital. It is covered by an emerald color and a perfect limpidity. On the calm surface of shining water, the city landscape is reflected below in the sunlight.
You can take a boat trip while enjoying the traditional music coming from the Court of Hue.
5. Ngự Bình Mountain
Besides the Perfume River, the mountain of Ngự Bình is a figure of nature and a source of pride for the inhabitants of Hué. If someone remembers “the Perfume River”, one cannot forget the mountain of Ngự Bình. From the top of this mountain, you can enjoy a view in the distance bringing together the natural landscape of Hue like on a painting. This mountain is covered by green pine forests up to the top.
6. Trường Tiền Bridge
Trường Tiền Bridge (also known as Tràng Tiền) crosses the Perfume River with curved spans. It is one of the particular symbols of Hue. Tràng Tiền Bridge is attached to the history of more than 100 years. He is witness to the history full of vicissitudes of our country. Nowadays, a modern lighting system on the bridge has been installed.
7. Lăng Cô Beach
Hue not only has historical and cultural sites but also great beaches that continue to fascinate a good number of visitors.
Lăng Cô beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam which is 10 kilometers in length, the azure color of the water table and vast tropical jungles. Around Lăng Cô, there are 3 world cultural heritage preservation centers: the Imperial City of Huế, the old town of Hội An and the Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary. This is why this beach is not only a resort but also an ideal destination for lovers of history and culture.
8. Vọng Cảnh Hill
If you are looking for a place to admire the panoramic view overlooking the city, Vong Canh Hill is a good choice. On the upper floor of Vong Canh’s house, you can admire the city in its entirety, from the romantic Perfume River, ancient palaces, tombs, and temples to the grandiose mountains in the distance.
If you have the chance, visit Vọng Cảnh Hill at dawn or dusk. You will see the bright sky of Hue by a twinkling sun.