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A Day In Hue, Vietnam: Things To Do In 24 Hours In Hue

What to do in a day in Hue to make the most of this ancient imperial capital of Vietnam? Visit the Imperial City, explore royal tombs, admire pagodas, and stroll along the Perfume River. An immersive experience guaranteed in the authentic soul of Vietnam. Please refer to the following article from AUTOUR ASIA, Vietnam Travel Agency, to learn more about the 24-hour itinerary in Hue.

I. General Introduction to the ancient capital - Hue, Vietnam

The city of Hue, located in central Vietnam, is the former royal capital of the country, famous for its rich historical and cultural heritage. It was the seat of the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945) and is home to the UNESCO-listed Imperial City, as well as magnificent royal tombs. Situated along the Perfume River, Hue is also known for its pagodas and refined traditional cuisine.

Today, it is a major tourist destination, offering an immersion into Vietnamese history and culture. This is why you should spend a day in Hue during your trip to Vietnam.

II. Best time to visit Hue in a day

Spending a day in Hue is a short amount of time to explore, so it's essential to visit Hue at the best time of the year for an optimal experience. The best time to visit Hue is between November and April when the weather is drier and more pleasant. During these months, the city enjoys moderate temperatures (between 20°C and 30°C) and lower humidity, allowing for a full appreciation of the historical sites and surrounding landscapes. It is also the ideal time for local festivals, such as the Hue Festival, which takes place every two years (in April or May) and celebrates Vietnamese imperial culture.

III. What to do in Hue in a day?

1. Most Popular Activities

• Explore the Hue Imperial City

If you’re still wondering what to do in Hue in one day, you certainly shouldn't miss this article. Your 24-hour itinerary in Hue can begin with an exploration of the Imperial Citadel. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a cultural and historical gem of Vietnam, perfect for history and architecture enthusiasts. Located in the heart of the former imperial capital, it offers visitors a fascinating journey through time, immersing them in the era of the Nguyen dynasty. Stroll through its majestic palaces, sacred temples, and peaceful gardens while discovering the grandeur and beauty of the Vietnamese imperial court.

The Imperial Citadel of Hue Moreover, cultural performances and historical reenactments enhance the experience. A visit to the Imperial City of Hue is a complete immersion into Vietnam's imperial heritage, a memorable journey that will delight culture and history lovers from around the world.

• Discover the Tombs of the Emperors

When visiting Hue in one day, don’t hesitate to explore the royal tombs, symbols of the grandeur of the Nguyen dynasty. These majestic architectural masterpieces harmoniously blend Vietnamese and Chinese styles. Each tomb, designed for an emperor, includes temples, pavilions, and lush gardens. These complexes, more than mere resting places, integrate the surrounding nature and offer a captivating insight into Vietnamese imperial history and culture.

• The Tomb of Khai Dinh: The Tomb of Khai Dinh, located near Hue, is an impressive mausoleum built for Emperor Khải Định. This unique site skillfully combines Eastern and Western architecture, featuring a concrete structure adorned with colorful ceramic and glass mosaics. The bronze statue of the emperor at the center of the tomb illustrates his grandeur and power. This place is a true testament to the imperial era of Vietnam.

• The Tomb of Minh Mang: The Tomb of Minh Mang, dedicated to Emperor Minh Mang, is a beautiful complex located about 12 km from Hue. Constructed between 1840 and 1843, this mausoleum is famous for its architectural harmony and integration into the surrounding nature. The site consists of several buildings, gardens, and ponds, all reflecting the spirit of the Nguyen dynasty.

• The Tomb of Tu Duc: The Tomb of Tu Duc is a fascinating site that reflects the poetic personality of Emperor Tự Đức. Set in a picturesque natural setting, this mausoleum was built between 1864 and 1867 and consists of several pavilions, gardens, and ponds. The architecture of the tomb is elegant, featuring elements of traditional Vietnamese culture.

After exploring these architectural masterpieces, head to the famous Thien Mu Pagoda to continue your day in Hue, which will immerse you in an atmosphere of serenity and culture along the Perfume River.

• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda

When discovering the city of Hue in one day, don’t miss visiting Thien Mu Pagoda, a must-see for those wondering what to do in Hue. Located on the banks of the peaceful Perfume River, this historical pagoda, founded in 1601, is distinguished by its majestic seven-story tower, Phước Duyên. Offering stunning views of the surroundings, it is surrounded by lush gardens and an atmosphere imbued with serenity. A visit to Thien Mu Pagoda will enrich your Hue experience by combining spirituality, culture, and beautiful landscapes.

2. Evening Activities

• Boat Ride on the Huong River

As night falls, Hue reveals a magical atmosphere where history meets culture in a peaceful setting, but a day in Hue isn’t over yet. This is the time for you to discover the evening activities unique to this ancient city. A boat ride on the Huong River, also known as the Perfume River, is an unforgettable experience during your visit to Hue. Aboard traditional wooden boats, known as "thuyền" in Vietnamese, you can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere, away from the city's hustle and bustle. The cruises may include stops at major historical sites, allowing you to combine relaxation with cultural exploration.

Ready for Hue tour day in the evening, romantic cruises illuminate the river and feature traditional music performances, creating a magical ambiance. Whether for a short excursion or a longer cruise, a boat ride on the Huong River is a charming way to discover the beauty and history of Hue.

• Enjoy Water Puppet Show

The water puppet show in Hue is a captivating traditional art form that dates back several centuries. The wooden puppets, skillfully manipulated on an aquatic stage, tell stories from Vietnamese culture, accompanied by traditional music and songs. These performances depict folklore legends and scenes from rural life, providing an immersive and entertaining experience.

3. Unusual and Original Activities

• Explore Thuy Tien – The Abandoned Water Park

If you’re wondering what to do in Hue outside of the classic attractions, a visit to Thuy Tien during your 24 hours in Hue promises a captivating and memorable experience, away from traditional tourist circuits. The abandoned water park of Thuy Tien, located on the outskirts of Hue, is a fascinating destination for travelers seeking adventures and unusual discoveries. This mysterious site, once a vibrant water park, now attracts fans of off-the-beaten-path locations with its post-apocalyptic atmosphere and vegetation-covered structures. Dominated by a massive dragon sculpture decaying on a lake, the park offers a unique atmosphere for urban explorers and photographers.

• Discover the An Bang Cemetery

Take a one-day itinerary in Hue, spend your time to discover the An Bang Cemetery, a hidden treasure near Hue that will charm culture and history enthusiasts looking for unique experiences. This exceptional site is distinguished by its elaborate and colorful mausoleums, true works of art that blend tradition and modernity. Each tomb tells a captivating story, offering insight into Vietnamese funeral beliefs and the deep respect given to ancestor worship.

IV. Where to eat in Hue in one day?

Where to eat in Hue in one day? If you’re tired after visiting, it’s time to stop and taste Hue's specialties. Hue is famous for its traditional cuisine, rich with many specialties not to be missed. Here are some suggestions for your day in Hue:

1. Cơm hến (Rice with Clams)

What to eat in Hue? Cơm hến is a traditional dish that is a must-try in Hue, appreciated for its authentic flavors and modest origins. Comprising white rice accompanied by sautéed clams, aromatic herbs, grilled peanuts, and fried onions, this dish is enhanced by mắm ruốc, a fermented shrimp paste typical of the region. The addition of crispy pork cracklings and chili adds a crunchy and spicy touch. Usually enjoyed at breakfast or lunch, cơm hến perfectly embodies the culinary soul of Hue, combining simplicity and richness of flavors in every bite.

Here are some well-known restaurants for rice with clams:

• Rice with Clams Hoa Dong - 64 Kiet Ung Binh, Hue
  https://maps.app.goo.gl/ojNsiL4rnhKn4CgN8

• Rice with Clams Ba Cam - 49 Tung Thien Vuong, Vy Da, Hue
  https://maps.app.goo.gl/f1kv4KneQD43G3gp9

• Rice with Clams Dap Da – 01 Han Mac Tu, Vi Da, Hue
  https://maps.app.goo.gl/6ei9KervN5ARsFFh9

2. Cơm âm phủ (Hell Rice)

Cơm âm phủ is an emblematic dish of Hue, whose origins date back nearly 100 years. Its intriguing name, meaning "hell rice," is inspired by a local legend. This dish consists of a bowl of white rice in the center, surrounded by various accompaniments such as fried eggs, roasted pork, shrimp, spring rolls, and vegetables. Each ingredient is carefully prepared, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and colors. Cơm âm phủ embodies the culinary and cultural richness of Hue, offering visitors a unique and refined dining experience.

Some famous restaurants for this dish you can try:

• Hell Rice – 51 Nguyễn Thái Học, Phu Hoi, Hue
  https://maps.app.goo.gl/JWWaQNTzzk5Kqz4X7

• Restaurant 54 - 54 Phan Chu Trinh, Hue
  https://maps.app.goo.gl/w9qQg4jNiS9rdwh8A

3. Bánh canh (Vietnamese thick noodle soup)

Bánh canh is an essential dish of Hue, appreciated for its simplicity and rich flavors. This traditional dish consists of thick and chewy noodles, often made from rice flour or tapioca, served in a savory broth. In Hue, the most popular version includes seafood (shrimp, fish, and squid) or pork, complemented by fresh herbs and lime to enhance the dish's flavor.

Here are some restaurants in Hue for Vietnamese thick noodle soup:

• Huong Restaurant – 30 Pham Hong Thai, Vinh Ninh, Hue
  https://maps.app.goo.gl/GoTwEZ8WiuyD2yxk9

• Me Nga Restaurant – 32 Pham Hong Thai, Vinh Ninh, Hue
  https://maps.app.goo.gl/35A1j1zaRfXMz2wc8

• Kim Ha Restaurant – 78 Le Thanh Ton, Thuan Thanh, Hue
  https://maps.app.goo.gl/AtL9P43KKVx1vNM36

4. Bún Bò (Beef Noodle Soup)

Bún Bò Huế Is one of the iconic dishes of the city of Hue, renowned for its rich and fragrant broth. This dish consists of round rice noodles, accompanied by slices of beef, pork knuckle, and sometimes pieces of Vietnamese pork sausage (chả). What distinguishes Bun Bo Hue is its broth, prepared from beef bones, lemongrass, fermented shrimp paste, and lightly spiced with chili. It is served with fresh herbs such as mint, coriander, and basil, as well as bean sprouts and a squeeze of lime, providing a freshness that balances the rich and intense flavors of the broth. Traditionally served for breakfast or lunch, Beef Noodle Soup in Hue is a true feast that will delight lovers of Vietnamese cuisine and travelers seeking culinary discoveries.

• Bun Bo Hue Chi Thuy – Phu Nhuan, Hue
  https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZwfpyW5c7hEVrSbs8

• Bun Bo O Thuy – 432 Chi Lang, Phu Cat, Hue
  https://maps.app.goo.gl/3GAs3bKHQ3XSgfKx9

• Bun Bo Hue Ong Vong O Phung – 5 Nguyen Du, Phu Cat, Hue
  https://maps.app.goo.gl/UNfpvWhFZ95fWhMF8

V. Our advice on weather and outfits

In hopes that visitors will have the best experience during their 24-hour itinerary in Hue, we would like to offer some tips.

• The best time to visit Hue is in the morning, between 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM, when the temperature is cool and ideal for exploring historical sites like the Imperial City. The afternoon, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, is also pleasant, but the heat can be intense. Evenings, with lights illuminating the city and strolls along the Perfume River, provide a charming ambiance.

• Hue has a tropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters, with temperatures generally ranging from 18°C to 35°C. In the summer, opt for lightweight clothing made of cotton or linen, and don't forget a hat and sunglasses. During the rainy season, bring a raincoat or umbrella and choose non-slip shoes, as the roads can be slippery.

In summary, a day in Hue offers opportunities to explore its rich heritage and savor its refined cuisine. What to do in Hue? From visiting the Imperial City to peaceful walks along the Perfume River, each moment immerses you in the authentic spirit of this captivating city.

We, AUTOUR ASIA - Vietnam Travel Agency, are always willing to provide more information and accompany you on your trip to Hue, Vietnam.