Hue: Half-Day City Tour With Dragon Boat Cruise & Car

Exploring the historical and cultural gems of Hue is an immersive experience we can’t wait to dive into. On this half-day tour, we’ll uncover the city’s captivating past as we cruise along the serene Perfume River, visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, and step inside the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel. Along the way, we’ll gain insights into the enduring legacy of the Nguyen Dynasty. With convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, this tour promises to be an enriching journey through Hue’s extraordinary heritage.

Key Points

• A half-day city tour in Hue that includes a dragon boat cruise, visits to Thien Mu Pagoda and the Imperial Citadel, and exploration of Dong Ba Market.
• The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours and costs Kč 750 per person, with options for private or small group tours.
• Highlights include a 30-minute dragon boat cruise, a 30-minute visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, and an hour-long exploration of the Imperial Citadel.
• The tour provides insights into Hue’s history as the former imperial capital of Vietnam and the legacy of the Nguyen Dynasty.
• Preparation tips include wearing comfortable closed-toe shoes, avoiding revealing clothing, and noting that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The half-day city tour in Hue costs Kč 750 per person and lasts approximately 4.5 hours.

We offer a reserve now & pay later option, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Choose from private or small group tours.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a dragon boat cruise, entry to Thien Mu Pagoda and Imperial Citadel, and a visit to Dong Ba Market.

However, the entrance fee for the Citadel (200,000 VND per person) is excluded.

Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and bring your camera and sunscreen.

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Itinerary Highlights

On this Hue city tour, we’ll start with a 30-minute dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River.

Next, we’ll visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic Buddhist monastery, for about 30 minutes.

Explore the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic Buddhist monastery, for approximately 30 minutes.

After that, we’ll explore the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was home to the last royal dynasty of Vietnam, for around 1 hour.

To round out the tour, we’ll spend 1 hour at the bustling Dong Ba Market, immersing ourselves in the local culture and activities.

Finally, we’ll return to Hue after the memorable half-day adventure.

Cultural and Historical Insights

As former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue offers a wealth of cultural and historical insights.

We’ll discover the legacy of the Nguyen Dynasty, the last royal family to rule the country.

At the Thien Mu Pagoda, we’ll learn about its symbolic significance as a historic Buddhist landmark.

The UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel provides a glimpse into the architectural marvels and the inner workings of the imperial court.

Wandering through its 100 monuments spanning 520 hectares, we’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Hue’s illustrious past as the political and cultural heart of Vietnam.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a number of key elements to provide you with a comprehensive Hue experience.

We’ve got you covered from start to finish:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off to make your day seamless

• The iconic dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River

• Entry to the historic Thien Mu Pagoda

• Access to explore the impressive Imperial Citadel

While these core experiences are included, please note that food, drinks, personal expenses, and the separate entrance fee for the Imperial Citadel aren’t covered.

We want to ensure you have all the details to plan your Hue adventure.

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Tour Preparation and Restrictions

To ensure you have the best possible experience on your Hue city tour, we recommend preparing a few key items.

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes will make exploring the imperial sites more enjoyable. Don’t forget sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. Bring your camera to capture the stunning architecture and riverside scenery.

Although shorts and skirts are fine, please avoid anything too revealing, as we’ll be visiting sacred pagodas. Smoking isn’t permitted during the tour.

Unfortunately, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain within the Imperial Citadel.

We’re confident these tips will help you feel prepared to explore Hue.

Dragon Boat Cruise on Perfume River

A 30-minute dragon boat cruise on the serene Perfume River is the first stop on your Hue city tour.

This peaceful waterway offers:

1. Stunning views of Hue’s imperial monuments along the riverbanks.

2. An introduction to the city’s history and culture through your guide’s commentary.

3. A serene respite from the bustling streets before visiting the historic sites.

4. A chance to relax and enjoy the tranquil ambiance of this iconic river.

The dragon boat cruise sets the tone for your immersive exploration of Hue’s rich heritage.

Exploring the Imperial Citadel

Next, we’ll explore the impressive Imperial Citadel, the former seat of Vietnam’s last royal dynasty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site covers 520 hectares and houses around 100 monuments. As we wander through the complex, we’ll learn about the history of the Nguyen Dynasty and witness the architectural grandeur that defined their rule.

| Highlights | Duration | Insights |

|————|———-|———-|

| Explore Imperial Citadel | 1 hour | Home to last royal dynasty |

| Visit Forbidden Purple City | 30 mins | Restricted area for imperial family |

| See Ngo Mon Gate | 15 mins | Impressive main entrance |

| Discover Dynastic Temples | 15 mins | Reflect Nguyen architectural style |

| Stroll along Imperial Canals | 15 mins | Intricate water engineering |

Visiting Dong Ba Market

After exploring the grandeur of the Imperial Citadel, we’ll head to the lively Dong Ba Market, a bustling hub of local commerce and culture.

At Dong Ba, we’ll:

1. Browse vibrant stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, and traditional Vietnamese wares.

2. Immerse ourselves in the energetic atmosphere as vendors hawk their goods.

3. Discover unique handicrafts, from carved wooden figurines to traditional conical hats.

4. Interact with friendly locals and learn about their daily lives and customs.

This dynamic market offers a glimpse into the heart of Hue’s thriving community and its rich cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Activities in Hue?

Absolutely! You can easily combine this half-day city tour with other activities in Hue. Many visitors like to add visits to the tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty, a cooking class, or a trip to the nearby Demilitarized Zone.

How Much Time Is Allowed for Individual Sightseeing?

We allow ample time for you to explore each key site on the tour. Around 30 minutes is given at the Thien Mu Pagoda and Dong Ba Market, while the Imperial Citadel visit lasts approximately 1 hour.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

We offer flexible tour options, so you can customize the itinerary to suit your interests. While the standard tour has set durations, we’re happy to adjust the time spent at each attraction based on your preferences.

Can I Bring Children on This Tour?

Yes, children are welcome on this tour. The itinerary and activities are suitable for families, and we’d be happy to accommodate any special needs or requests you may have to ensure your little ones enjoy the experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

We do offer discounts for both students and seniors on this half-day city tour. Students can receive a 10% discount, while seniors aged 65 and above can get a 15% discount off the regular tour price.

The Sum Up

This Hue city tour offers a well-rounded cultural experience, allowing you to explore the region’s rich history and vibrant present. From the tranquil Perfume River cruise to the captivating Imperial Citadel and lively Dong Ba Market, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for Hue’s enduring legacy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or seeking to rediscover this fascinating destination, this tour provides an excellent introduction to the city’s many charms.

You can check availability for your dates here: