Exploring the historic city of Hue from Hoi An or Da Nang is a must-do for any traveler in central Vietnam. This guided day tour showcases the region’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can expect a scenic drive along the famous Hai Van Pass, visits to iconic sites like the Khai Dinh Mausoleum and Thien Mu Pagoda, and a delightful local lunch. With convenient hotel pickup and air-conditioned transportation, it’s an ideal way to take in the captivating essence of Hue.
Key Points
- This 1-day Hue city tour from Hoi An or Da Nang provides a rundown of Hue’s historical and cultural attractions.
- The tour includes a scenic drive along the Hai Van Pass, visits to the Khai Dinh Mausoleum, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Imperial City of Hue.
- The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, entrance fees, local lunch, and bottled water/drinks during meals.
- The tour is suitable for individuals or small groups and is available with an English-speaking guide.
- Comfortable attire, a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle are recommended, and modest dress is required when visiting religious sites.
Tour Overview
The Hue City Tour is a 1-day excursion from Hoi An or Da Nang that allows visitors to explore the historical and cultural landmarks of Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam.
Priced from $72 per person, the tour lasts 11 hours and offers private or small group options with an English-speaking guide.
Pickup is available from Lăng Cô, Hoi An, and Da Nang. The tour can be freely canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Bookings have a "reserve now & pay later" option. Guests are advised to dress modestly and be prepared for varying weather conditions.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Hue Vietnam.
Itinerary Highlights
The Hue City Tour features several highlights along the itinerary.
Travelers will enjoy:
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A scenic coastal drive along the Hai Van Pass, offering panoramic views for 2 hours.
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A short 20-minute break at Lap An Lagoon for coffee and sightseeing.
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A guided tour of the royal Khai Dinh Mausoleum, lasting 30 minutes.
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A visit to the historic Thien Mu Pagoda, the first pagoda in Vietnam, for 30 minutes.
After lunch at a local restaurant, the tour explores the Imperial City of Hue for 105 minutes, before concluding at the Forbidden Purple City.
Inclusions
The Hue City Tour includes several key services and amenities to enhance the overall experience. The tour package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation via air-conditioned van, and entrance fees to all the attractions. A local lunch at a reputable restaurant and bottled water/drinks during meals are also provided. Other inclusions are:
| Included | Not Included |
|———-|————–|
| Entrance Fees | Personal Expenses |
| Lunch | Tips |
| Bottled Water | – |
These comprehensive inclusions ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey through the historical wonders of Hue.
Important Information
Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, a camera, sunscreen, and a water bottle to make the most of the Hue City Tour.
The tour isn’t suitable for:
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Pregnant women
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People with back problems
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Wheelchair users
Visitors are expected to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Plus, the tour includes:
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Varying weather conditions, so being prepared is recommended.
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Flexible itineraries, so check availability for starting times.
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No pets or smoking allowed in the vehicle.
Scenic Coastal Drive: Hai Van Pass
The Hai Van Pass offers a scenic coastal drive during the Hue City Tour. Winding through the mountains, the pass boasts panoramic views of the East Sea.
Travelers can admire the rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush greenery along the 2-hour journey. The drive showcases Vietnam’s natural beauty, providing a picturesque start to the day’s exploration.
Guests can pause for photos and stretch their legs, before continuing on to the next stop, Lap An Lagoon.
The Hai Van Pass segment allows visitors to experience the breathtaking landscapes that make Vietnam’s central region so captivating.
- Hue: Visit Lang Co Beach, Khai Dinh Tomb & Imperial City
- From Hue: Thanh Tan Hot Spring Zipline and Highwire Tour
- Full-Day Hue City Tour With Entrance Fees and Lunch
- From Hue: Bach Ma National Park Hiking Day Trip With Pickup
- Hue Walking Tour to Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City
- Hue Half-Day Tour With Boat Trip and Sightseeing
Exploring the Imperial City of Hue
What makes the Imperial City of Hue so captivating? The former royal capital boasts an impressive collection of historical monuments and structures that offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s dynastic past.
Visitors can explore:
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The Citadel: The walled inner sanctum that once housed the emperor’s residence, throne room, and imperial gardens.
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The Forbidden Purple City: The emperor’s private palace, off-limits to commoners, now partially restored.
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The Thien Mu Pagoda: Vietnam’s oldest pagoda, featuring a seven-story tower and serene riverside setting.
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The Royal Tombs: Elaborate mausoleums of past emperors, showcasing Hue’s rich architectural heritage.
Immersing oneself in the Imperial City’s captivating history is a highlight of any Hue city tour.
Visiting the Khai Dinh Mausoleum
A highlight of the Hue City Tour is a visit to the Khai Dinh Mausoleum, the final resting place of the 12th emperor of the Nguyen dynasty.
Located on Chau Chu mountain, the mausoleum features a unique blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles. Visitors can explore the royal tomb’s ornate decorations, including intricate mosaics, carved dragons, and a ceremonial hall.
The guided tour provides insight into the emperor’s life and the significance of the mausoleum’s design. Spending about 30 minutes here, travelers gain a deeper understanding of Hue’s imperial legacy before continuing their immersive journey through the city’s historic sites.
Discovering the Thien Mu Pagoda
After exploring the Khai Dinh Mausoleum, the Hue City Tour proceeds to the Thien Mu Pagoda, the first pagoda in Vietnam.
This iconic landmark stands seven stories tall, symbolizing the seven reincarnations of Buddha.
Visitors can:
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Marvel at the striking architecture featuring intricate carvings and decorations.
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Learn about the pagoda’s history dating back to 1601 and its significance in Vietnamese Buddhism.
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Admire the massive Stele of Hue, a massive stone monument inscribed with the history of the pagoda.
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Explore the surrounding gardens and grounds for a serene and peaceful experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit Our Preferences?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to suit personal preferences. Travelers can work with the tour operator to adjust the stops, duration, and activities according to their interests and needs.
Is There an Option to Add Extra Stops or Activities to the Tour?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility to add extra stops or activities. Customers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who can customize the itinerary to suit their interests within the tour duration and logistics.
How Much Space Is Available for Luggage in the Transportation Provided?
The air-conditioned van provides ample space for passengers’ luggage. Travelers can comfortably store their bags and personal belongings during the tour. The transportation is designed to accommodate the needs of the group size.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for Larger Groups?
The tour provider offers discounted group rates for parties of 4 or more. Larger groups can inquire about package deals and custom itineraries to accommodate their needs and budget. Prices are generally lower for group bookings.
Is It Possible to Request a Multilingual Guide for the Tour?
Yes, multilingual guides can often be requested for private tours. Travelers should inquire about availability and any additional fees when booking. The tour operator will do their best to accommodate requests for guides who speak multiple languages.
The Sum Up
The Hue City Tour offers a captivating one-day experience for visitors based in Hoi An or Da Nang. This comprehensive excursion includes a scenic coastal drive, guided visits to historical sites, and exploration of the iconic Imperial City of Hue, all with convenient transportation, a delicious local lunch, and expert guidance provided. It’s an excellent opportunity to take in Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
You can check availability for your dates here:More City Tours in Hue Vietnam
- From Da Nang/Hoi an : Hue City Luxury Tour With Hai Van Pass
- Hue: Hue Imperial City Full Day-Luxury Tour With Dragon Boat
- Hue: Full-Day City Tour With Boat Trip and Lunch
- Hue City Tour Full Day – Group Tour
- Hue Imperial Ancient City Tip-Based Walking Tour
- Hue: Imperial City and Forbidden City Photography Tour
More Tours in Hue Vietnam
- Hue Boat Tour on Perfume River With Royal Tombs
- From Da Nang/Hoi an : Hue City Luxury Tour With Hai Van Pass
- Hue To/From Hoi An: Easy Rider Tour via Hai Van Pass (1way)
- Tam Giang Lagoon Private Tour From Hue: Sunset & Fishing
- Flavors of Hue: Street Food Bike Tour
- Hue: Hue Imperial City Full Day-Luxury Tour With Dragon Boat
More Tour Reviews in Hue Vietnam
- Hue: Swedish Massage at Wellness Spa
- Hue Boat Tour on Perfume River With Royal Tombs
- From Da Nang/Hoi an : Hue City Luxury Tour With Hai Van Pass
- Hue To/From Hoi An: Easy Rider Tour via Hai Van Pass (1way)
- Hue to DMZ Historic: Vinh Moc Tunnels & Khe Sanh Combat Base
- Tam Giang Lagoon Private Tour From Hue: Sunset & Fishing
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Hue Vietnam we have reviewed
- Hue: Swedish Massage at Wellness Spa
- Hue Boat Tour on Perfume River With Royal Tombs
- From Da Nang/Hoi an : Hue City Luxury Tour With Hai Van Pass
- Hue To/From Hoi An: Easy Rider Tour via Hai Van Pass (1way)
- Hue Heritage Tour by Cyclo: Citadel, Museums & Local Market
- From Hue: Amazing Way Sightseeing Tour to Hoi An
- From Hue: Vietnams DMZ Full-Day Group or Private Tour
- Hai Van Pass & Hue City Explore Full Day | Da Nang, Hoi An
- From Hoi An: Hue Imperial City Full Day
- 2 Day Trekking In Pu Luong Loop & Overnight At Homestay
- Hue: Hue City Tour With Highlights Tour and Local Guide
- From Hue: Hoi an Guided Bus Tour With 4 Scenic Stops