Hue City Tour and Dragon Boat Trip Small Group From Hue

Explore the imperial legacy and natural beauty of Hue with our small group tour. We’ll float along the serene Perfume River on a dragon boat, visit the iconic Imperial City, and discover the architectural wonders of royal tombs. Along the way, learn about the local culture at the vibrant Dong Ba Market and learn the art of traditional incense-making. Priced at just $37 per person, this 8-hour adventure offers an unparalleled glimpse into Vietnam’s storied past. Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper into the remarkable highlights of this unforgettable experience.

Key Points

• A small group, 8-hour tour of Hue City, including a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River, Imperial City, Dong Ba Market, and a visit to an incense-making village.
• Pickup from hotels or a central meeting point, with an option to start the tour with a 30-minute dragon boat ride on the Perfume River.
• Exploration of the iconic Imperial City, the former seat of the Nguyen dynasty, with insights into the daily life and customs of the royal court.
• Visit to the lively Dong Ba Market, the Tomb of Minh Mang, and the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh, showcasing a blend of Vietnamese and European architectural influences.
• Tour includes transport, entrance fees, a local lunch, and the opportunity to witness the traditional craftsmanship of incense production in Thuy Xuan Incense-making Village.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This "Hue City Tour and Dragon Boat Trip" offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience in the historical city of Hue, Vietnam.

Priced from $37 per person, the 8-hour small group tour is limited to 13 participants and guided in English. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

A small group tour of Hue, Vietnam priced at $37 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Transport, entrance fees, and a local lunch are included. The itinerary features a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River, visits to the Imperial City, Dong Ba Market, and imperial tombs, as well as an incense-making village.

This tour provides an immersive look into Hue’s rich culture and history.

Pickup and Departure

The tour begins with pickup from our hotels between 8:00 AM and 8:30 AM, or we can meet the group at The Time Coffee, 18 Lê Lợi, Vĩnh Ninh, Hue at 8:15 AM.

Once we gather, we’ll embark on a 30-minute dragon boat ride along the serene Perfume River to the historic Thien Mu Pagoda.

This peaceful setting allows us to immerse ourselves in the local culture and ambiance before exploring the city’s iconic sites, including the Imperial City, Dong Ba Market, and the tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh.

Dragon Boat Trip

After boarding the dragon boat, we embark on a 30-minute ride along the serene Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda.

This peaceful atmosphere provides a tranquil contrast to the lively city. As we glide along the river, we admire the striking landscapes and historical sites that line the banks.

The dragon boat ride offers a unique perspective on Hue, allowing us to experience the city from a different vantage point. This leisurely journey sets the stage for our exploration of Thien Mu Pagoda, a renowned Buddhist temple with a rich history and impressive architecture.

Imperial City, Hue

Following our serene dragon boat ride, we now arrive at the iconic Imperial City of Hue. Established in the early 19th century, this walled palace complex served as the seat of the Nguyen dynasty.

We’ll spend 2 hours exploring its grand temples, ornate pavilions, and serene gardens. The Citadel’s imposing walls and gates showcase Vietnam’s rich imperial heritage.

As we wander the grounds, we’ll learn about the daily life and customs of the former royal court. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s dynastic past.

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Dong Ba Market

Stepping away from the grandiose Imperial City, we now find ourselves amidst the bustling energy of Dong Ba Market.

This lively marketplace offers a glimpse into the local way of life:

• Stalls brimming with vibrant produce, from crisp vegetables to fragrant herbs

• Hawkers calling out their wares, creating a symphony of sights and sounds

• Locals haggling with vendors, a time-honored tradition in Vietnamese culture

• The aroma of sizzling street food, tempting passersby to indulge in authentic Hue cuisine

We immerse ourselves in the rhythmic pulse of Dong Ba, a window into the heart of Hue’s community.

Tomb of Minh Mang

The Tomb of Minh Mang, a sprawling complex nestled amidst lush landscaping, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Nguyen dynasty.

We’ll explore the emperor’s final resting place, adorned with intricate architecture and surrounded by serene ponds and gardens.

The main mausoleum, with its symmetrical layout and ornate decor, reflects Minh Mang’s devotion to Confucian principles.

As we wander the grounds, we’ll uncover the fusion of Vietnamese and Chinese influences that defined the Nguyen era.

This historical gem offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage that has long shaped Hue’s landscape.

Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh

Although smaller in scale than the sprawling Tomb of Minh Mang, the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh commands our attention with its unique architectural blending of Vietnamese and European influences.

• Constructed in the early 20th century, the mausoleum features a harmonious mix of classic Vietnamese elements like ceramic tile and intricate carvings with Western touches like a grand staircase and arched entryways.

• As we explore the complex, we’ll discover the opulent interior adorned with colorful mosaics, exquisite stone and bronze statues, and dazzling views overlooking the surrounding hills.

• Khai Dinh’s resting place reflects his ambitious vision to modernize Vietnam while preserving its distinct cultural heritage.

• This captivating site offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s imperial past and the lasting impact of its emperors.

Thuy Xuan Incense-making Village

A short photo stop at the Thuy Xuan Incense-making Village allows us to witness the centuries-old tradition of creating fragrant incense sticks by hand.

We observe skilled artisans expertly rolling and molding ingredients like bamboo, sandalwood, and various aromatic herbs into delicate incense coils. The pungent scent fills the air as the incense is sun-dried on bamboo racks.

We learn that this time-honored craft has been passed down through generations, with families dedicating their livelihoods to perfecting the intricate techniques.

This visit offers a glimpse into Hue’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring traditions that continue to thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Boat Is Used for the Dragon Boat Trip?

We’ll get to experience a traditional dragon boat during the 30-minute river cruise along the Perfume River. These iconic boats are known for their dragon-shaped prows, which give the tour a unique and memorable flair.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal Option?

Yes, we can accommodate vegetarian or halal meal requests for this tour. Just let the tour operator know your dietary preferences when you book the tour, and they’ll ensure a suitable meal is provided.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, we can accommodate an extended tour duration if requested in advance. Additional time allows for more exploration of Hue’s historical sites and cultural experiences. Just let us know your preferred length, and we’ll be happy to adjust the itinerary.

Can I Visit the Imperial Citadel on My Own Before the Tour?

You can definitely visit the Imperial Citadel on your own before the tour. However, keep in mind that the tour includes entrance fees, so it may be more cost-effective to join the tour if you plan to see the Citadel.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

Unfortunately, the tour operator doesn’t seem to offer any discounts for seniors or students. The price is a flat rate of $37 per person, regardless of age or student status. You’ll need to pay the full tour cost.

The Sum Up

This small group tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Hue’s rich history and natural beauty. From the serene Perfume River dragon boat ride to the captivating Imperial City and royal tombs, we’ll immerse ourselves in Vietnam’s imperial legacy. Coupled with a traditional lunch and a visit to the bustling Dong Ba Market, this tour provides an authentic and memorable experience in Hue.

You can check availability for your dates here: