Vietnam is a beautiful country with many breathtaking sights to explore. One of the most popular tourist destinations is the city of Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Located in the central region of the country, Hue is known for its rich history and culture, as well as its stunning natural beauty. From ancient temples and tombs to lush gardens and picturesque beaches, there is something for everyone in Hue. Here are the top 20 places to see in Hue, Vietnam.
1. Imperial City: The Imperial City is the former home of the Nguyen Dynasty, which ruled Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. The complex is an impressive example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside the walls of the Imperial City, you’ll find the Imperial Citadel, Flag Tower, Thai Hoa Palace, and many other historic buildings.
2. Thien Mu Pagoda: Thien Mu Pagoda is one of the oldest and most iconic religious sites in Hue. The seven-story pagoda is situated on the banks of the Perfume River and is a symbol of Hue’s spiritual heritage. Inside the pagoda, you’ll find a large bronze bell, a bell tower, and many statues and artifacts.
3. Tu Duc Tomb: The Tu Duc Tomb is the final resting place of Emperor Tu Duc, the fourth emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty. Located in the countryside outside of Hue, the tomb is a testament to the grandeur of the dynasty. The complex includes a lake, gardens, pavilions, and a number of temples.
4. Dong Ba Market: No visit to Hue would be complete without a trip to the bustling Dong Ba Market. This vibrant market is the largest in the city and is a great place to shop for souvenirs, sample local cuisine, and experience the hustle and bustle of everyday life in Hue.
5. Hue Royal Palace: The Hue Royal Palace is a complex of buildings that were once part of the imperial palace of the Nguyen Dynasty. The palace is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Hue, as well as to admire some of the city’s most impressive architecture.
6. Khai Dinh Tomb: The Khai Dinh Tomb is the final resting place of Emperor Khai Dinh, the 12th emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty. This impressive tomb is a mix of traditional Vietnamese and European architectural styles and is decorated with intricate mosaics and sculptures.
7. Truong Tien Bridge: The Truong Tien Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hue. The bridge was built in 1899 and spans the Perfume River, connecting the two sides of the city. The bridge is a great place to take in the views of the city and river.
8. Perfume River: The Perfume River is one of the most iconic attractions in Hue. The river is named for its fragrant scent, which is caused by the blooming flowers that line its banks. The river is a great place to take a boat tour and admire the views of the city and countryside.
9. Ngu Binh Mountain: Ngu Binh Mountain is the highest peak in Hue and is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The mountain offers stunning views of the city and countryside and is a popular spot for hiking and camping.
10. Tu Hieu Pagoda: Tu Hieu Pagoda is a tranquil temple located in the countryside outside of Hue. The pagoda is home to a large collection of statues and artifacts and is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Hue.
11. An Dinh Palace: An Dinh Palace was the home of Emperor Khai Dinh and is a great place to learn about the life of the Nguyen Dynasty. The palace is a mix of traditional Vietnamese and French architectural styles and is decorated with intricate mosaics and sculptures.
12. Tu Duc Garden: Tu Duc Garden is a picturesque garden located in the countryside outside of Hue. The garden is home to a number of temples, pavilions, and statues and is a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area.
13. Thuan An Beach: Thuan An Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline located just outside of Hue. The beach is a great place to relax and take in the views of the East Sea. The beach is also a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
14. Bach Ma National Park: Bach Ma National Park is a stunning nature reserve located just outside of Hue. The park is home to a variety of wildlife and is a great place to explore the natural beauty of Vietnam. The park is also a popular spot for hiking and camping.
15. Truong Tien Bridge: The Truong Tien Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hue. The bridge was built in 1899 and spans the Perfume River, connecting the two sides of the city. The bridge is a great place to take in the views of the city and river.
16. Dong Ba Market: No visit to Hue would be complete without a trip to the bustling Dong Ba Market. This vibrant market is the largest in the city and is a great place to shop for souvenirs, sample local cuisine, and experience the hustle and bustle of everyday life in Hue.
17. Khai Dinh Tomb: The Khai Dinh Tomb is the final resting place of Emperor Khai Dinh, the 12th emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty. This impressive tomb is a mix of traditional Vietnamese and European architectural styles and is decorated with intricate mosaics and sculptures.
18. An Dinh Palace: An Dinh Palace was the home of Emperor Khai Dinh and is a great place to learn about the life of the Nguyen Dynasty. The palace is a mix of traditional Vietnamese and French architectural styles and is decorated with intricate mosaics and sculptures.
19. Thuan An Beach: Thuan An Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline located just outside of Hue. The beach is a great place to relax and take in the views of the East Sea. The beach is also a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
20. Hue Royal Palace: The Hue Royal Palace is a complex of buildings that were once part of the imperial palace of the Nguyen Dynasty. The palace is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Hue, as well as to admire some of the city’s most impressive architecture.
Hue is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are many places to explore. These are just some of the top places to see in Hue, Vietnam. Whether you are looking for ancient temples, lush gardens, or stunning beaches, there is something for everyone in Hue.