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How to Spend One Day in Hue

How to Spend One Day in Hue

Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Hue with our expertly crafted one-day itinerary. From exploring ancient citadels to savoring local cuisine, our guide ensures you make the most of every moment in this enchanting city. Discover hidden gems, witness breathtaking landmarks, and experience the charm of Hue in just 24 hours. Let us be your trusted companion in creating unforgettable memories on your whirlwind tour of Hue's cultural wonders

  1. Travel Tips
  2. Thua Thien Hue
  3. How to Spend One Day in Hue
SamanthaUpdated August 10, 20263 min read

The historic city of Hue is an essential stop in your Vietnam tour, especially if you are a history and culture lover. Located on the banks of the Perfume River, the city holds the key to unlocking Vietnam’s majestic past (it was once the capital of the powerful Nguyen Dynasty). 

If you are short on time but still want to see the beautiful city of Hue you can choose to go on a 1-day tour.

One day in Hue itinerary

Let's take a look at the best places in Hue you can visit in one day. 

How to get around Hue

The best way to get around Hue is to rent a motorbike or a cycle and look at the sights at your own pace. You can also hop on any of the cyclos available around the city, especially near major tourist sights, or grab a taxi. 

Another popular method of getting around Hue is to join a Hue tour group. Most tours provide their transportation, so you don't have to worry about getting around the city on your own.

Imperial Citadel of Hue

Once home to the powerful Nguyen Emperors, the Imperial Citadel should be your first stop in your one-day tour of Hue. The sprawling citadel was once home to 148 buildings, out of which only 20 remain. But the remaining buildings are still worth a visit, especially the Purple Forbidden City( similar to Beijing's Forbidden City) which was once the residence of the royal family. 

Imperial Citadel of Hue

Thien Mu Pagoda

Nearby the Imperial Citadel is the famous Thien Mu Pagoda or Palace of the Celestial Lady. Located on the banks of the Perfume River, this seven-story Buddhist temple is one of the oldest pagodas in Hue. It is a peaceful place where you can observe Buddhist monks praying and admire the surrounding scenery.

View of Thien mu pagoda

Royal Tombs

The next stop in your Hue tour should be the Royal Tombs. The city has numerous royal tombs, each worth a visit. But if you have just one day in Hue, then the Tomb of Tu Duc, Tomb of Khai Dinh, and Tomb of Minh Mang are the best tombs to visit. All three have distinct architecture and have elaborate designs which make them stand out in comparison to the other royal tombs. 

Tomb of Khai Dinh

Dong Ba Market

After you are done with the historical tours, head to Dong Ba Market to get a taste of everyday life in Hue. The bustling market is a great place to shop for local handicrafts and clothes to take back home as souvenirs. You can also stop by the market for lunch at the food court where you can enjoy the best of Vietnamese cuisine.

Woman carrying spices in Dong Ba Market

Perfume River

End your day in Hue with a sunset cruise along the tranquil Perfume River. The river flows through the city and is home to many of Hue city’s sights including, the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, the royal tombs, and more. The river cruise is the perfect place to enjoy the views of the historical sights from a different perspective. On top of that, you get to watch the sunset over the horizon.

Sunset view at perfume river

Now that you know the best way to spend one day in Hue, it's time to pack your bags and explore the city in real life. But before that can happen, you will need to make sure you have all the correct documentation required to enter Vietnam, including a visa. You can apply for a Vietnam visa online with BDATrip. We will take care of the entire process for you. 

Hanoi - Thien Mu Pagoda - Minh Mang Tomb - Khai Dinh Tomb - Hue Citadel - Eye of the Citadel - Ru Cha - Dam Chuon - Tomb of Tu Duc - Dong Ba Market 5N4D

Hanoi - Thien Mu Pagoda - Minh Mang Tomb - Khai Dinh Tomb - Hue Citadel - Eye of the Citadel - Ru Cha - Dam Chuon - Tomb of Tu Duc - Dong Ba Market 5N4D

Time: 5 days / Vehicle: Car; Train / Date of department: Contact

5d4.7(1030)
From
$157
Hanoi - Thien Mu Pagoda - Minh Mang Tomb - Khai Dinh Tomb - Hue Citadel - Eye of the Citadel - Ru Cha - Dam Chuon - Tomb of Tu Duc - Dong Ba Market 5N4D

Hanoi - Thien Mu Pagoda - Minh Mang Tomb - Khai Dinh Tomb - Hue Citadel - Eye of the Citadel - Ru Cha - Dam Chuon - Tomb of Tu Duc - Dong Ba Market 5N4D

Time: 5 days / Vehicle: Car; Train / Date of department: Contact

5d4.7(1030)
From
$157
Hue - Ancient capital tour (From Da Nang city)

Hue - Ancient capital tour (From Da Nang city)

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Da Nang Hoi An Hue Quang Binh - Central Heritage Journey

Da Nang Hoi An Hue Quang Binh - Central Heritage Journey

The Central Vietnam has long been famous as the area that has a lot of attractions and tourism potential. In Quang Binh, Phong Nha National Park is a kingdom of the caves with many world famous caves. Hue city is a royal land with the Citadel, King’s tombs and many nice pagodas located on the banks of the romantic Perfume River. Da nang is a city of unique bridges and interesting amusement parks. And Hoi An is an ancient town with many old houses and streets and colorful lanterns. All of them created a special attraction for the Central that we called it Heritage.

4d4.8(241)
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$229$299
Hue - Ancient capital tour (From Da Nang city)

Hue - Ancient capital tour (From Da Nang city)

2d4.3(938)
From
$319$449
Da Nang Hoi An Hue Quang Binh - Central Heritage Journey

Da Nang Hoi An Hue Quang Binh - Central Heritage Journey

The Central Vietnam has long been famous as the area that has a lot of attractions and tourism potential. In Quang Binh, Phong Nha National Park is a kingdom of the caves with many world famous caves. Hue city is a royal land with the Citadel, King’s tombs and many nice pagodas located on the banks of the romantic Perfume River. Da nang is a city of unique bridges and interesting amusement parks. And Hoi An is an ancient town with many old houses and streets and colorful lanterns. All of them created a special attraction for the Central that we called it Heritage.

4d4.8(241)
From
$229$299
Hue – Phong Nha 2 Days 1 Night Tour: Explore Paradise Cave, Phong Nha Cave & Dark Cave Adventure

Hue – Phong Nha 2 Days 1 Night Tour: Explore Paradise Cave, Phong Nha Cave & Dark Cave Adventure

A 2-day adventure from Hue to Phong Nha, visiting iconic DMZ landmarks and exploring Phong Nha – Ke Bang’s most spectacular caves including Paradise Cave, Phong Nha Cave, and Dark Cave with zipline fun.

2d4.4(1372)
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Da Nang - Hoi An - Hue - "Worthing Living" Cities tour

Da Nang - Hoi An - Hue - "Worthing Living" Cities tour

This package will give you a memorable visit and insight of three famous destinations in the center of Vietnam including Da Nang, Hue and Hoi An. You will visit the highlights of Hoi An ancient town with the Japanese – covered bridge, Tan Ky old house, the Cantonese congregation; and an excursion to visit Marble mountains stop by Lang Co beach and full day Hue city tour.

4d4.2(1721)
From
$299
Hue – Phong Nha 2 Days 1 Night Tour: Explore Paradise Cave, Phong Nha Cave & Dark Cave Adventure

Hue – Phong Nha 2 Days 1 Night Tour: Explore Paradise Cave, Phong Nha Cave & Dark Cave Adventure

A 2-day adventure from Hue to Phong Nha, visiting iconic DMZ landmarks and exploring Phong Nha – Ke Bang’s most spectacular caves including Paradise Cave, Phong Nha Cave, and Dark Cave with zipline fun.

2d4.4(1372)
From
$250
Central Vietnam Essential

Central Vietnam Essential

Central Vietnam Essential – 6 Days’ is a perfect vacation for family and friends group to spend a great time together. The itinerary combines a blend of main attractions in Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue with different characteristics to ensure you a complete experience. The places you visit will range from cultural, historical, and local sites to pure entertaining hotspot like a museum park with a cable car ride. 

6d 2h4.0(145)
From
$899$1,099
Da Nang - Hoi An - Hue - "Worthing Living" Cities tour

Da Nang - Hoi An - Hue - "Worthing Living" Cities tour

This package will give you a memorable visit and insight of three famous destinations in the center of Vietnam including Da Nang, Hue and Hoi An. You will visit the highlights of Hoi An ancient town with the Japanese – covered bridge, Tan Ky old house, the Cantonese congregation; and an excursion to visit Marble mountains stop by Lang Co beach and full day Hue city tour.

4d4.2(1721)
From
$299
Central Vietnam Essential

Central Vietnam Essential

Central Vietnam Essential – 6 Days’ is a perfect vacation for family and friends group to spend a great time together. The itinerary combines a blend of main attractions in Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue with different characteristics to ensure you a complete experience. The places you visit will range from cultural, historical, and local sites to pure entertaining hotspot like a museum park with a cable car ride. 

6d 2h4.0(145)
From
$899$1,099

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