Located in the middle of Vietnam, Hue was the capital of the country during the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. Though the city was severely damaged in Vietnam War, the remains of a former imperial city still contain many interesting sights and was recognized as UNESCO World Heritage. Besides being home to some the most amazing architecture and history, Hue attracts tourist also with its beautiful landscapes and stunning monuments. When traveling up or down the length of Vietnam, travelers often make Hue as a stopover for a couple of nights on their Vietnam Customized Tours. There are many interesting things to learn and explore during a stay in Hue, below is the top 6 things should not be missed
1. The Imperial Citadel
Visiting the Imperial Citadel (also known as the Forbidden Purple City) should be at the top of to-do-list for any Vietnam Custom Tour. The citadel was built in 1803 by the founder of Nguyen Dynasty – Emperor Gia Long as a royal family members’ residence and workplace. Though much of the former structure was damaged in war, there are still many interesting sights as well as beautiful palace and temple to see. The history, legend and atmosphere make the Imperial Citadel as a breathtaking tourist site in Hue.
2. Perfume River
Flowing across the center of Hue city, Perfume River is famous for the relaxing boat tours. It is said that a visit to Hue will not be complete without a boat excursion on charming Perfume River. It is a perfect way to see the city views as well as getting some stops along the river trip to visit the popular tourist sites that are easily reached by boat. Autumn is the best time to visit Perfume River as the flowers in local orchards up river begin to lose their blossoms and go into the further downstream. Another way to feel the beauty of Perfume River is walking along the paths of the river’s edge. The sunset on the river is so romantic with golden scenery created by orange color. Watching local families gather for exercising or chatting, enjoying local snacks sold by street vendors are highlights of a Vietnam Customized Holidays.
3. Thien Mu Pagoda
Locating not far from the Imperial Citadel and can be reached easily with an enjoyable bicycle ride along Perfume River. Thien Mu Pagoda was built with seven stories high, on a hill overlooking Perfume River and it is the tallest religious building in Vietnam. The pagoda is one of the icons of Hue City together with the Imperial Citadel. The best time to visit Thien Mu Pagoda is in the morning, before the tour groups show up to feel the tranquility of the area as well as get the full appreciation of this historic pagoda.
4. Tombs of Nguyen Kings
In the South of Hue city, imperial tombs of Nguyen Kings are the popular attractions that are regularly included in all Vietnam travel packages. Among them, Khai Dinh Tomb and Minh Mang Tomb are the most visited by travelers. Khai Dinh Tomb is the last imperial tomb in Vietnam which took 11 years to complete. The tomb is well preserved and the most popular one in Hue. The tomb is an impressive mixture of Western and Eastern designs since Khai Dinh King loved the French architecture when he spent some time living in France.
Unlike Khai Dinh Tomb, Minh Mang Tomb took only three years to build. There is large ground of landscaped lakes, canals, gardens combine with stunning architecture to create a peaceful atmosphere. Tourists can freely explore most of the ground while the gate of the tomb is only opened once a year for the death anniversary of Kinh Minh Mang.
5. Hai Van Pass
Hai Van Pass is the longest mountain pass in Vietnam which takes tourists up and down, around the coastal line and connect Hue to Danang. Although there is another option for transports of taking Hai Van Tunnels to save time, Vietnam Travel Agents still arrange a longer drive that take Hai Van Pass for travelers to admire the spectacular landscape on the highest peak of the pass. Once was known as one of the most dangerous roads in Vietnam with sharp turns and often covered by thick fog, Hai Van Pass is now the ideal place for viewing the stunning natural beauty of Vietnam because most of the heavy trucks and local buses would take Hai Van Tunnels, leave the pass only for tour cars and motorbikes.
6. Taste Hue’s cuisine
Besides the interesting historical attractions, Hue is also well known for its special cuisine which is celebrated throughout the country and become an important strand of Vietnam’s culinary heritage. For foodie travelers, Hue is a paradise for tasting the most exquisite foods on the Vietnam Food Tours. From the luxurious and sophisticated dishes of the noble class to the rustic and common street food, all are cooked with amazing skills of Hue people to create a special flavor that nowhere can compare. Hue food can simply please even the most fastidious customers. Read more: Top 10 dishes to try when you travel to Hue.
Related posts:
6 interesting things to do in Mekong Delta
5 amazing things to do in Sapa
