2 days
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia CommonsHue Imperial City
Central Vietnam · UNESCO World Heritage
Hue was Vietnam's capital under the Nguyen dynasty from 1802 to 1945. Its vast walled citadel encloses the Imperial City, where the emperors ruled, and the Purple Forbidden City, their private residence. Much was damaged in war, and restoration continues, but the gates, halls and gardens remain hugely impressive.
Outside the city, the emperors built elaborate tombs among the hills along the Perfume River. Together they form the Complex of Hue Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What to see
- Ngo Mon Gate. The grand main gate to the Imperial City.
- Thai Hoa Palace. The throne hall where emperors held court.
- The Purple Forbidden City. Once reserved for the emperor and his household; partly rebuilt.
- Tomb of Minh Mang. Harmonious and set among lakes and pines.
- Tomb of Khai Dinh. A striking mix of European and Vietnamese styles, with glittering mosaic interiors.
- Tomb of Tu Duc. Pavilions and a lake the emperor used as a retreat.
Tips
- Buy a combo ticket if you plan to visit the tombs: it saves money.
- Visit early: Hue is hot from May to August, with little shade in the citadel.
- A dragon boat trip on the Perfume River makes a relaxing way to reach Thien Mu Pagoda.
Where it is
Multi-day tours that visit Hue Imperial City
Every tour here includes Hue Imperial City in its itinerary. Best rated first.
2 days2 days
2 days
3 daysCentral Vietnam
Central Vietnam Easy Rider: Phong Nha, DMZ, Hue via HCM Trail
5.0(10)Free cancellation
from$300
3 days
7 days
5 days
5 daysDa Nang
5-Day Explore Central Vietnam | Da Nang Hoi An Hue and Phong Nha
5.0(5)Free cancellation
from$559
2 days
2 days
2 days
2 daysCombine it with
Hai Van Pass
A winding mountain road over the sea between Hue and Da Nang, with some of Vietnam's best coastal views.
Visitor guide →Hoi An Ancient Town
UNESCOA beautifully preserved trading port of yellow shophouses and assembly halls, magical by lantern light.
Visitor guide →Phong Nha caves
UNESCOSpectacular caves in a jungle national park, from Paradise Cave's walkways to the giant Son Doong.
Visitor guide →Helpful planning guides
- How many days in Vietnam? Routes for 7, 10, 14 and 21 days →One week suits the north or the centre, two weeks covers north to south with a Ha Long Bay cruise, and three weeks adds Sapa, the Mekong and a beach.
- Typhoon and flood season in Vietnam: when, where and how to plan →Central Vietnam floods most years in October and November; storms can stop Ha Long Bay cruises from July to September. A month by month risk table and how to plan around it.
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Hue Imperial City: questions
How much is the Hue Imperial City ticket?
200,000 VND for adults. Combo tickets with royal tombs start at 420,000 VND. Prices can change, so check locally.
How long do you need in Hue?
One full day covers the citadel and two or three royal tombs; two nights allows a more relaxed pace.