Walking Hue, Vietnam’s imperial city, is best done with a local guide who can unlock the stories behind its magnificent landmarks. The historic heart of the city deserves a proper introduction, and guided walks deliver just that.
I particularly love the half-day Imperial Citadel tours, which smartly combine the must-see fortress complex with local insights you’d never get on your own. The riverside walks that include both the royal tombs and Perfume River are another standout – they offer the perfect mix of history and scenic beauty.
For food lovers, the evening street food walking tours are pure gold, letting you sample authentic Hue specialties while exploring the atmospheric old quarter. These tours typically run 3-4 hours and include 5-6 food stops.
Let’s look at our favorite walking tours that showcase the best of Hue’s imperial heritage and local culture.
Key Points
- Hue walking tours offer immersive experiences exploring the city’s iconic historical landmarks, including the Imperial City and Forbidden City.
- Walking tours range from $18 to $34.82 per person, with most tours lasting 2-3.5 hours and accommodating small group sizes.
- Key attractions on the tours include the Supreme Harmony Palace, Forbidden Purple City, Noon Gate, and Thien Mu Pagoda.
- Tours provide insights into Hue’s Nguyen Dynasty architecture, history, and cultural significance from knowledgeable English-speaking guides.
- Recommendations for participants include wearing comfortable shoes, dressing appropriately, and booking early for popular tours.
Hue Walking Tour to Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City
Typically, the Hue: Imperial City and Forbidden City Walking Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Hue’s most iconic historical landmarks.
Priced at $19.66 per person, this 2.5-hour tour limits group sizes to 8 participants and is led by a friendly, English-speaking guide.
Highlights include the Supreme Harmony Palace, the Flag Tower, the Nine Dynastic Urns, and the Forbidden Purple City – the center of royal life established in 1804.
Admission tickets can be purchased before the tour or arranged with the guide.
After the tour, participants can further explore the local life within the Hue Citadel area.
Read our full review: Hue Walking Tour to Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City Review
Book now: Check availability
Hue Imperial City Walking Tour
The Hue Imperial City Walking Tour offers a captivating exploration of Hue’s most iconic historical landmarks. Priced at €18.62 per person, this 2.5-hour small-group tour (limited to 10 participants) delves into the untold stories, Fengshui, architecture, and royal life of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Visitors can discover the Noon Gate, Flag Tower, Supreme Harmony Palace, and other key attractions, including the Forbidden Purple City. The tour includes a knowledgeable English-speaking guide and bottled water, though entrance fees aren’t covered.
Flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this tour an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive experience in Hue’s imperial heritage.
Read our full review: Hue Imperial City Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Hue : Deluxe Walking Tour to Imperial City With Local Guide
Exploring the grandeur and rich history of Hue’s Imperial City, the Deluxe Walking Tour offers visitors an immersive experience. Priced at $19.66 per person, the 2-2.5 hour tour explores the Nguyen Dynasty‘s pivotal sites, including the Noon Gate, Flag Tower, and Supreme Harmony Palace.
Led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides, the small group experience (limited to 10) provides insightful commentary on the emperors, concubines, and eunuchs who once inhabited these grounds. Accessible to wheelchair users, the tour includes entrance fees and bottled water.
Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This deluxe walking tour offers an immersive window into Hue’s imperial past.
Read our full review: Hue : Deluxe Walking Tour to Imperial City With Local Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Hue: Walking Tour to Thien Mu Pagoda and Back by Boat Trip
This walking tour offers visitors an immersive experience exploring Hue’s historical and natural gems.
Over 3 hours, travelers will stroll along the Perfume River, visiting the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, an ancient site over 400 years old.
The tour includes a relaxing boat ride back, allowing guests to soak in the scenic surroundings.
Knowledgeable English or French-speaking guides provide insights into Hue’s rich history and culture.
The tour is priced from $34.82 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water are recommended, as Hue can be hot, especially from May to September.
This small group or private tour promises a rewarding experience exploring Hue’s renowned attractions.
Read our full review: Hue: Walking Tour to Thien Mu Pagoda and Back by Boat Trip Review
Book now: Check availability
Exclusive Small Group Walking Tour of Hue Imperial City
Exclusive Small Group Walking Tour of Hue Imperial City offers a captivating exploration of Hue’s renowned historical landmark.
Lasting 2.5 hours, this highly-rated tour (4.9 stars from 416 reviews) takes visitors on a journey through the Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, guests will explore the rich history and architecture of these iconic sites.
The tour is priced at $19.66 per person and operates with small groups, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to learn about Vietnam’s cultural heritage, this walking tour is an excellent choice for discovering the magnificence of Hue’s Imperial City.
Read our full review: Exclusive Small Group Walking Tour of Hue Imperial City Review
Book now: Check availability
Hue Imperial City Walking Tour 3 Hours
A comprehensive 3-hour walking tour of Hue Imperial City provides visitors with an immersive exploration of this renowned historical landmark.
Priced at $30 per person, the tour offers guided visits to key attractions like the Nine Holy Cannons, Ngo Mon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, and more.
Along the way, guests will learn about the Nguyen Dynasty’s history, Feng Shui principles, and the royal life of emperors, concubines, and eunuchs.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, bottled water, and entrance fees to the Imperial Citadel complex.
Guests should dress appropriately and note that certain items are prohibited.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this 3-hour walking tour is an excellent way to discover the rich cultural heritage of Hue.
Read our full review: Hue Imperial City Walking Tour 3 Hours Review
Book now: Check availability
Hue: Evening Food Walking Tour
For those seeking an immersive culinary experience in Hue, the Evening Food Walking Tour offers a delectable journey through the city’s vibrant gastronomic landscape.
Priced at $26.63 per person, this 1.5 to 2.5-hour tour features 8 distinctive local dishes. Guests embark on a walking exploration, crossing from the south to the north bank of the Huong River, savoring the flavors and discovering the history and significance of each delicacy.
With knowledgeable guides, participants enjoy the nighttime scenery while indulging in the city’s culinary treasures. The tour accommodates private or small groups and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a convenient and enriching experience for foodies.
Read our full review: Hue: Evening Food Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Hue: Night Walking and Photo Tour – Explore Hue by Night
Enjoy the captivating night ambiance of Hue on this comprehensive 3-hour walking tour. Priced at $32.77 per person, this small-group experience is limited to 8 participants and guided by an English-speaking expert.
Explore the city’s iconic landmarks, like the Imperial Citadel, illuminated at night, and savor the flavors of local cuisine, including the rich Bun Bo Hue and sweet Che Mo Ton Dich.
Marvel at the panoramic views from The Time Coffee, and conclude your evening with the famous Tran Cao Van Banh Mi.
With free cancellation and no upfront payment required, this accessible and insightful tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into Hue’s vibrant nightlife and rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Hue: Night Walking and Photo Tour – Explore Hue by Night Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Hue Walking Tour to Imperial Citadel With Tour Guide
Set out on a captivating 2.5-hour private walking tour of Hue’s Imperial Citadel, led by an English-fluent guide.
Priced from $18 per person, this tour explores the history of the 143-year Nguyen Dynasty, including 13 kings and the secrets of the harem.
Key sites include the Flag Tower, Cua Ngo Mon, Thai Hoa Palace, and the Nine Dynastic Urns.
You’ll also visit the Duyet Thi Duong Royal Theater, Thiệu Phương Garden, and Kiến Trung Palace.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this private tour offers a comprehensive and flexible way to discover Hue’s rich imperial legacy.
Read our full review: Private Hue Walking Tour to Imperial Citadel With Tour Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Hue:Deluxe Walking Tour to Imperial City and Dong Ba Market
Explore the grandeur of Hue’s Imperial City and the lively bustle of Dong Ba Market on this 3.5-hour deluxe walking tour. Priced from $20.07 per person, this small-group tour (maximum 8 participants) offers an immersive experience led by an experienced, English-speaking guide.
Visit the UNESCO-listed Imperial City, a highlight of the Nguyen Dynasty. Then, venture to Dong Ba Market, one of Hue’s largest and oldest local markets, for shopping and a delectable Banh Mi tasting.
Convenient inclusions like bottled water, entrance fees, and tips ensure a seamless experience. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides flexibility to fit your schedule.
Read our full review: Hue:Deluxe Walking Tour to Imperial City and Dong Ba Market Review
Book now: Check availability
Hue Imperial City and Forbidden City Walking Tour
Visitors can uncover the grandeur of Hue’s Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City on this walking tour. The 2.5-3 hour tour costs $19.25 per person and is led by an English-speaking guide.
Highlights include the Flag Tower, Noon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, the Forbidden Purple City, and the Duyet Thi Duong Royal Theater. The tour also visits the Thiệu Phương Garden, Kien Trung Palace, the Nine Dynastic Urns, and the Hien Lam Pavilion.
Pickup service is available, and there’s free cancellation with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. The entrance ticket to the Imperial City is 200,000 VND per person.
Read our full review: Hue Imperial City and Forbidden City Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Hue Walking Street Food Tour
The Hue Walking Street Food Tour provides an immersive culinary experience, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant gastronomic landscape of this historic city.
Priced at $27 per person, the 3-hour tour takes guests on a journey to discover Hue’s best street food, including steamed rice pancakes, rice dumplings, Bun bo Hue, Hue pancakes, cheese grilled oysters, and Hue sweet soup.
Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour explores non-touristy locations, offering an authentic glimpse into local life and food history.
With free cancellation and a pay-later policy, the Hue Walking Street Food Tour is a convenient and highly-rated experience, as evident from its 5/5 rating based on 3 reviews.
Read our full review: Hue Walking Street Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Hue Food Tour by Walking or Cyclo or Motorcycle With Driver
Hue’s culinary prowess takes center stage in this immersive food tour, offering travelers a chance to indulge in the city’s renowned street food specialties.
Priced at $32.73 per person, the 3-hour tour is available via walking, cyclo, or motorcycle with a driver. Highlights include visiting Dong Ba Market, tasting local delicacies like Banh Khoai and Bun Bo Hue, and exploring the Imperial City.
With a total walking distance of 5 kilometers, the tour provides an engaging cultural experience, including insights from an English-speaking guide.
Flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this an attractive option for those seeking an authentic Hue food adventure.
Read our full review: Hue Food Tour by Walking or Cyclo or Motorcycle With Driver Review
Book now: Check availability
Hue Imperial City Walking Tour in 2,5 Hours
Unfolding before visitors is the captivating Hue Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that invites exploration through a meticulously crafted 2.5-hour walking tour.
Priced from $26.63 per person, this accessible tour allows guests to explore the history and architectural wonders of the former Vietnamese capital.
Highlights include the Mieu Temple, the ornate Cung Diên Thọ and Cung Trường Sanh, and the Kiến Trung Palace.
Along the way, knowledgeable guides enlighten participants about the Nguyen Dynasty’s legacy and the factors that led to its downfall.
With optional hotel pickup and small group options, this tour offers a personalized experience for travelers seeking an immersive look at Hue’s imperial past.
Read our full review: Hue Imperial City Walking Tour in 2,5 Hours Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
How Far in Advance Should I Book the Walking Tour?
It’s generally recommended to book walking tours in advance, often at least a few days before your desired tour date. This ensures availability and allows you to secure your spot on the tour.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Interests?
Yes, you can usually customize the itinerary to suit your interests. Many tour operators offer flexible walking tours that can be tailored to your preferences, allowing you to focus on the sights and experiences that most appeal to you.
What Should I Bring on the Walking Tour?
When going on a walking tour, it’s best to bring comfortable shoes, a water bottle, sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and any medications you may need. Bringing a camera is also recommended to capture the sights along the way.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
Many walking tours offer wheelchair accessibility, but it’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand. They can provide details on the terrain, accessibility, and any accommodations they can make to ensure a comfortable experience for all participants.
Do the Walking Tours Accommodate Vegetarian or Vegan Diets?
Many walking tour companies in Hue accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets. They offer alternatives to meat-based meals and can cater to dietary restrictions. Travelers should inquire about food options when booking a tour.
The Sum Up
Hue offers a variety of walking tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history and culture. From the Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City to the Thien Mu Pagoda, these tours provide an immersive experience. Whether you choose a guided tour or a self-guided exploration, walking is an excellent way to discover Hue’s architectural gems and savor its renowned street food.