Hue: City Tour With Dragon Boat, Car & Local Food

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, captivates travelers with its enchanting allure. Set out on a comprehensive city tour that combines a tranquil dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, immersive explorations of the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, and a flavorful culinary adventure at the vibrant Dong Ba Market. This tour promises to unveil the rich history, vibrant culture, and local gastronomy that make Hue a truly remarkable destination. Prepare to be captivated as you uncover the city’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 5-hour Hue city tour featuring a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River and visits to iconic landmarks like Thien Mu Pagoda and the Imperial Citadel.
• Starts with hotel pickup and includes a tranquil 30-minute dragon boat ride, offering scenic views of the river, pagodas, and royal tombs.
• Exploration of the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, home to the Nguyen Dynasty, providing insights into Hue’s rich cultural heritage.
• Visit to the 17th-century Thien Mu Pagoda, the tallest in Vietnam, to learn about Buddhist history and its significance in Hue’s imperial past.
• Concludes with a visit to the vibrant Dong Ba Market, allowing visitors to enjoy the local culture and cuisine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Hue City Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the historic and cultural landmarks of Vietnam’s former imperial capital.

The 5-hour tour includes a 30-minute dragon boat cruise along the serene Perfume River, providing a unique perspective of the city. Guests will visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, once home to the Nguyen Dynasty.

The tour also includes a visit to the lively Dong Ba Market, where travelers can enjoy the vibrant local culture and sample delectable regional cuisine.

Throughout the experience, guests will gain valuable insights into Hue’s storied past.

Itinerary Breakdown

The Hue City Tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, allowing visitors to embark on their discovery of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Cruising along the serene Perfume River on a traditional dragon boat, guests enjoy a peaceful 30-minute ride.

The tour then visits the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest religious structure in Hue dating back to the 17th century.

The iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest religious structure in Hue dating back to the 17th century, is a must-visit during the tour.

Exploring the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, travelers explore the legacy of the Nguyen Dynasty, Vietnam’s last royal family.

The adventure concludes with a lively visit to Dong Ba Market, immersing guests in the vibrant local life and cuisine.

Exploring the Perfume River by Dragon Boat

A tranquil 30-minute dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River kicks off the Hue City Tour.

Gliding across the gentle waters, visitors take in the picturesque scenery:

• Lush riverbanks dotted with ancient pagodas and royal tombs

• Fishermen casting their nets in the serene stream

• Locals going about their daily lives along the riverfront

• The iconic Trang Tien Bridge spanning the river’s graceful curves

This relaxing boat ride provides a peaceful introduction to Hue’s rich cultural heritage and sets the stage for the fascinating exploration to come.

Discovering Thien Mu Pagoda

After the serene dragon boat cruise, the tour proceeds to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue’s most iconic landmarks.

This 17th-century temple stands as a symbol of Vietnam’s former imperial capital. Visitors can explore the pagoda’s seven-story tower, believed to be the tallest in Vietnam.

The grounds also feature a historic pagoda hall and a beautiful garden. As guests wander the site, they’ll learn about the pagoda’s significance in Buddhist history and its association with the Nguyen Dynasty.

Thien Mu Pagoda offers a glimpse into Hue’s rich cultural heritage and religious traditions.

More Great Tours Nearby

Uncovering the Imperial Citadel

Following the visit to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, the tour continues to the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, the former seat of the Nguyen Dynasty, Vietnam’s last royal family.

Visitors can explore:

• Impressive palaces, gardens, and pavilions that once housed the emperors

• The Forbidden Purple City, the innermost section reserved for the emperor and his family

• Towering defensive walls and impressive gateways that protected the imperial complex

• Bullet-scarred ruins, a poignant reminder of the Vietnam War’s devastation

The Imperial Citadel provides a window into Vietnam’s imperial past and the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Experiencing Local Life at Dong Ba Market

From the grandeur of the Imperial Citadel, the tour now takes visitors to explore the vibrant Dong Ba Market, where they can enjoy the local culture and cuisine. At the bustling market, sights, sounds, and smells assault the senses. Stalls overflow with fresh produce, exotic spices, and handmade crafts. Visitors can browse the colorful array and interact with friendly vendors.

| What to See | What to Try |

| — | — |

| Fresh, local produce | Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich) |

| Fragrant herbs and spices | Bun Cha (Grilled Pork with Noodles) |

| Handmade textiles and souvenirs | Vietnamese Iced Coffee |

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the daily life of the Hue people, creating a memorable connection to the vibrant local culture.

Cultural Insights and History Lessons

The Hue City Tour offers a rich cultural and historical experience for visitors. Guests will learn about the city’s storied past as the former imperial capital of Vietnam and the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty, the last royal dynasty.

Key insights include:

• The history of the Nguyen Dynasty and their architectural legacy, such as the Imperial Citadel

• The significance of Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest religious structure in Hue

• The cultural traditions and local cuisine showcased at the bustling Dong Ba Market

• The importance of the Perfume River in Hue’s development and daily life

Important Details and Recommendations

Although the Hue City Tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, the tour provides a range of other important details to consider.

Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat, camera, and sunscreen. Smoking is prohibited during the tour.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a dragon boat cruise, and entrance to Thien Mu Pagoda and the Imperial Citadel. However, the entrance fee for the Citadel is an additional 200,000 VND per person.

Visitors can also expect to enjoy local food and learn about Hue’s rich history and cultural insights during the 5-hour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s group size is not explicitly stated. Tour information typically doesn’t specify group size, as it can vary depending on demand and availability. Travelers should check with the tour provider for the current group size details.

Can I Book This Tour for a Different Time?

Yes, you can book this tour for a different time. The tour allows for flexible scheduling, and you can reserve your spot with no upfront payment. Just be sure to book in advance to ensure availability.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any specific discounts for children or seniors. However, travelers should contact the tour operator to inquire about potential discounts or special rates for those groups. The standard price is $76.57 per person.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The inclusions cover a local food experience, but outside food and drinks are not permitted. However, it’s a good idea to bring water to stay hydrated during the 5-hour tour.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour allows some customization of the itinerary to suit individual preferences. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour operator, who’ll try to accommodate any special requests within the tour’s scope and duration.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive Hue city tour offers an immersive cultural experience. Visitors will explore the historic Perfume River by dragon boat, visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and Imperial Citadel, and discover the vibrant Dong Ba Market. With insightful commentary on Hue’s rich history and opportunities to savor local delicacies, this tour provides an engaging and well-rounded introduction to Vietnam’s former imperial capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: