The 14 BEST things to do in Hue, Vietnam

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Hue, Vietnam!

If you’re looking for a place that’s equal parts beautiful, vibrant, and absurdly hilarious, then look no further than Hue, Vietnam! This city is full of life, love, and more than a few quirks that will have you laughing and marveling in equal measure.

Atmosphere / Vibes

Asian woman praying near tripod
Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh
The atmosphere in Hue is electric, to say the least. The streets are always bustling with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, and the locals are some of the friendliest and most welcoming people you’ll ever meet. The vibe in Hue is laid-back and relaxed, but there’s always something going on – whether it’s a traditional music performance, a colorful parade, or just a group of friends playing a lively game of cards.

Weather throughout the year

Teenage Boys in Suits Standing in front of the Imperial City, Hue in Hue, Vietnam.
Photo by Siêu Mẫu Hoàng Hôn
One of the great things about Hue is that it’s warm and sunny almost all year round. The summers can get a bit hot and humid, but the winters are generally mild and pleasant. Rain is always a possibility, but it tends to come and go quickly, leaving behind gorgeous rainbows and fresh, clean air.

Why Hue, Vietnam is the best place to be

Ground level of fresh delicate magnolia flowers scattered on ground near ancient Pagoda of the Celestial Lady located in Hue city in Vietnam in Hue, Vietnam.
Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh
There are so many reasons why Hue is the best place to be, it’s hard to know where to start! For one thing, the food is absolutely amazing – from steaming bowls of pho to crispy spring rolls, there’s something for everyone. The city is also home to a number of beautiful temples, palaces, and gardens that are perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll. And then there’s the nightlife – with its lively bars, clubs, and music scenes, Hue is definitely a city that knows how to party.

Cost of Travel

Unrecognizable woman against Pagoda Of The Celestial Lady
Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh
One of the great things about Hue is that it’s a very affordable destination, especially compared to some of the other cities in Vietnam. Hotels and hostels are generally inexpensive, and there are plenty of cheap street food options to choose from. That being said, there are also plenty of higher-end restaurants and hotels if you’re looking for something a little more luxurious.

Top 14 best things to do in Hue, Vietnam

People Walking on Pathway Near Brown Wooden Building
Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh
  1. Visit the Forbidden Purple City – this ancient palace is a must-see for anyone visiting Hue, with its beautiful gardens and ornate buildings.
  2. Take a boat ride along the Perfume River – the scenery along this beautiful river is breathtaking, and you’ll get to see some of the city’s most famous landmarks along the way.
  3. Try some local specialties – from banh beo (steamed rice cakes) to bun bo hue (spicy beef noodle soup), there are so many delicious dishes to try in Hue.
  4. Explore the Thien Mu Pagoda – this stunning temple is a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city, and the views from the top are not to be missed.
  5. Visit the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum – this museum is packed with fascinating artifacts and historical treasures, and it’s a great way to learn more about the city’s rich history.
  6. Go shopping at Dong Ba Market – this huge market is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs, gifts, and all kinds of local goodies.
  7. Enjoy a traditional music performance – Hue is home to a thriving music scene, and you can catch traditional performances of everything from folk music to opera.
  8. Go on a food tour – whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try something new, a food tour is a great way to sample all kinds of local specialties and get a taste of Hue’s culinary culture.
  9. Visit the Imperial City – this beautiful walled city is home to a number of temples, palaces, and other historical sites, and it’s a great place to explore on foot.
  10. Go on a bike tour – there are plenty of bike tour companies in Hue that offer everything from leisurely rides through the countryside to more strenuous mountain biking adventures.
  11. Relax at An Hien Garden House – this beautiful garden house is a tranquil oasis in the midst of the city, and it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.
  12. Experience a traditional Vietnamese massage – there are plenty of spas and massage parlors in Hue where you can experience the soothing, therapeutic effects of a traditional Vietnamese massage.
  13. Explore the Hue Citadel – this massive fortification is home to a number of historical sites, including the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City, and it’s a great place to spend a few hours exploring.

Conclusion

Full body back view of anonymous female traveler strolling on paved walkway near South Gate in Imperial City in Hue
Photo by Son Tung Tran
There’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Hue, Vietnam – from exploring ancient temples and palaces to sampling delicious local specialties, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and colorful city. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Hue today, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!


Have you thought about staying in Hue for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Hue

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Vietnam, such as Hoi An, Sapa or Nha Trang.