How to Spend One Day in Hue

How to Spend One Day in Hue

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. 

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