The ancient city of Hue in central Vietnam was the capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty at the beginning of the 19th Century. During the Vietnam-US War, some of the most intense conflicts occurred in this region. One of Hue’s main tourist attractions is the spectacular riverside Hue Citadel or Royal Palace of the Imperial City, built according to the practices of feng shui. Thanks to its historical significance, the city is recognised as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.

Although Hue is not strictly a coastal city, you can find several good beaches nearby – you can even cycle there! The city lets you explore the culture, heart, and soul of Vietnam while still having easy access to the beach. Just over 650 km south of Hanoi and almost 1,100 km north of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Hue is well served by all forms of transport like bus, train, and plane.

What to see & do in Hue

Featured stories & fun stuff
  • 10 Best Things to Do in Hue

    The best things to do in Hue comprise well-preserved remnants of the Nguyen Dynasty, royal tombs, and ornate pagodas, most of which are easily accessible on foot or by bicycle. Once the capital of Vietnam between 1802 and 1945, the city was ruled by 10 emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty before its last ruler abdicated the throne in 1945 in...

    Read more

Where & what to eat in Hue

Where to shop & what to buy in Hue

  • 5 Best Places to Go Shopping in Hue

    The best places to go shopping in Hue let you experience the local lifestyle and learn about the city’s unique history and culture while also gathering some interesting souvenirs. Home to local markets, art galleries and tailor shops, Hue is arguably one of the best cities in Vietnam to purchase authentic handicrafts. Popular items include silk paintings, antiques, and lacquerware. About...

    Read more

Where to go & what to do at night in Hue

  • 5 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Hue

    The best things to do after dinner in Hue are great for ending the day with a nice drink, live entertainment, and warm hospitality. The city's nightlife scene is rather laidback compared to most cities in Vietnam. Hue is more renowned for its UNESCO-listed citadels, royal tombs, and pagodas than its bars and nightclubs.  Most of Hue's nightlife spots are within...

    Read more

Useful information

  • Hue Weather

    The weather in Hue goes through hot and humid seasons throughout the year, but it’s known to be hotter than most cities during the summer months due to its location in Central Vietnam and the hot south-westerly wind from Laos. The dry season lasts between March and August, followed by cooler (and rainy) weather from September to February. The hottest months...

    Read more

Where to stay in Hue

Start planning your trip

Also popular in Vietnam

Back to top
Sorry, this page hasn’t been translated in your language yet…