Hue Attractions

Hue is a city steeped in centuries of tradition. Once the ancient capital of Vietnam, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into the country’s imperial past.

From wandering palace grounds to exploring traditional craft villages, discover the top Hue attractions and the best things to do in Hue.

Exploring Hue's Imperial Grandeur: Historical Sites

These historic sites are among the most iconic Hue tourist attractions. Each offers a meaningful look into the storied past of Vietnam’s former capital.

Hue Imperial City (The Citadel)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hue Imperial City is the former seat of Vietnam’s Nguyen emperors. This vast complex once housed the royal family, mandarins and military leaders.

Travellers will find plenty to explore across the sprawling courtyards, grand gates and ceremonial halls. For families with kids, the new virtual experience is a fun and interactive way to make history feel real, turning the past into something they can see and engage with.

For a more immersive visit, plan to spend at least half a day here. Bring water and snacks, and allow for breaks, especially if you're travelling with little ones.

Royal Tombs of Nguyen Emperors

The Nguyen dynasty imperial tombs are among Hue’s main attractions. Set near the Complex of Hue Monuments, each tomb was thoughtfully designed to reflect the legacy of the emperor it honours.

While the dynasty spanned 143 years and 13 emperors, only seven tombs were built. Among the most family-friendly are those of Tu Duc, Minh Mang and Khai Dinh. Tu Duc’s tomb offers open courtyards, garden paths and a quiet lake, creating a peaceful setting for family exploration. Minh Mang’s is the most stately, featuring formal layouts, pine trees and lotus ponds. Khai Dinh’s tomb, with its mosaic-adorned interior, offers a visually engaging experience for little ones.

When visiting with children, observe proper etiquette. Go early to avoid crowds, and consider a guided tour for valuable insights into the tombs’ significance.

Thien Mu Pagoda

Perched on the banks of the Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda is one of Hue’s most recognisable landmarks. It was built on the site of a pre-existing shrine during the reign of the first emperor of the Nguyen dynasty. Today, its iconic seven-tiered Phuoc Duyen Tower is considered the city's unofficial symbol.

Take time to admire the tower up close and listen for the deep tone of the ancient bell. See the car once driven by the monk Thich Quang Duc, a symbol of the country's more modern history.

For families with children, consider combining your visit with a scenic dragon boat ride along the river. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the view and arrive at the pagoda with a sense of adventure.

Thanh Toan Bridge

Thanh Toan Bridge is a shining example of traditional Vietnamese rural architecture. Built in the 18th century, it is designed in the style of a house above a bridge. It features a tiled roof, wooden beams and dragon details — elements that pay homage to the old pagoda style of construction.

Stop by the bridge to experience the peaceful rural setting. A tranquil escape from the city, this quiet corner of Hue offers a welcome change of pace.

If you’re travelling with children, the calm surroundings, rice fields and shaded bridge make it a relaxing spot for a family stroll. The nearby museum also offers a glimpse into local farming traditions, with displays that can be both educational and engaging for young travellers.

Thai Hoa Palace

Located within the Imperial City, Thai Hoa Palace once served as the coronation hall for Nguyen emperors. It remains one of the most significant structures in the complex.

Step inside to admire the richly decorated interior, with carved wooden columns, golden motifs and dragon imagery throughout. The space reflects the formality and grandeur of imperial rule, offering visitors a closer look at the traditions of the Nguyen court.

Lang Co Town

Nestled between the sea and mountains, Lang Co is a tranquil coastal town known for its pristine beach and clear turquoise waters. It offers a peaceful mix of local life and natural beauty, with opportunities to swim, sunbathe and enjoy freshly caught seafood along the shore.

Wander through the town’s quiet streets, take in scenic views of the lagoon or visit nearby fishing villages for a glimpse of daily life. Families can spend the day on the sand and try local specialities, while couples or solo travellers relax by the water.

For a luxurious stay, Angsana Lang Co resort offers direct beach access, premium amenities and family-friendly activities.

Hai Van Pass

While not located exactly in Hue, Hai Van Pass is one of Vietnam’s most famous scenic routes. It connects Hue and Da Nang with sweeping views of the coastline and mountains. Its winding roads and dramatic vistas have made it a favourite for travellers.

The journey across Hai Van Pass can be taken from Hue to Da Nang or vice versa, with each turn revealing another striking view. For the ultimate scenic journey, many choose to travel by motorbike. But if you’re travelling with kids, a private car is recommended for safety and comfort.

At the summit of the pass lies Hai Van Quan, an ancient gate dating back to the 19th century. Once a strategic military post, it now stands as a historic landmark where travellers can pause, stretch their legs, and soak in panoramic views of both Hue and Da Nang.

Dong Ba Market

Dong Ba Market is a lively hub of local life, where sights, sounds and scents spill from every corner. It’s a great place to experience Hue beyond its historic landmarks, with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to traditional handicrafts.

Sample regional dishes at the food stalls, pick up unique souvenirs or wander through the aisles of colourful fruits and vegetables. The market’s energy offers a true taste of daily life in Hue.

If you’re visiting with children, focus on sections that will spark their curiosity, from bright displays of tropical fruit to artisans crafting goods by hand. Keep them close in crowded areas, and turn tasting new snacks or fruits into a fun part of the visit.

Perfume River

The Perfume River flows gently through the centre of Hue, offering some of the city’s most picturesque views. Its banks are lined with pagodas, gardens and glimpses of daily life, making it a scenic highlight of any visit.

Take a relaxing dragon boat trip for a unique perspective of the city and its landmarks. A sunset cruise is especially beautiful, with warm light reflecting off the water, perfect for photographs and quiet moments.

For families, children often enjoy the novelty of the boat ride and spotting pagodas along the way. Choose a shorter trip or one that includes a stop at Thien Mu Pagoda to keep little ones engaged.

Bach Ma National Park

Just outside Hue, Bach Ma National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Known for its diverse ecosystems, it offers lush forests, cool streams and panoramic views from its higher peaks.

Visitors can hike along marked trails, discover cascading waterfalls and observe a wide variety of plants and animals. The park’s cooler temperatures also make it a refreshing break from the city.

If travelling with children, opt for shorter, easier trails and spend time at accessible viewpoints or near the waterfalls. Wildlife spotting can be an engaging activity, turning the trip into both an adventure and a learning experience for the whole family.

Conical Hat (Non La) and Incense Stick Making Villages

Vietnam has a long tradition of craft villages, where skills are passed down through generations and entire communities specialise in creating a single product. These villages preserve cultural heritage while supporting local livelihoods, making them an important part of the country’s identity.

Near Hue, you can visit villages where artisans make two of Vietnam’s most recognisable products: the conical hat (non la) and aromatic incense sticks. Watch as each hat is carefully shaped and crafted by hand, or see vibrant incense sticks laid out to dry in striking patterns. Both crafts require patience and precision, and seeing them made up close gives a new appreciation for these everyday cultural symbols.

A visit to these villages also offers the chance to buy authentic souvenirs directly from the makers. For children, watching artisans at work can be both educational and engaging, with the bright colours of incense bundles and the delicate steps of hat-making sparking curiosity.

Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities

Located within the former citadel, the Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities offers a close look at the treasures of Vietnam’s last imperial dynasty. From royal costumes and textiles to ceramics and Champa artefacts, the displays highlight the artistry and traditions of the Nguyen court.

The museum adds depth to the history explored at the Imperial City and Royal Tombs, making it a worthwhile stop for travellers interested in Vietnam’s heritage.

For those travelling with kids, it’s best to focus on a few standout pieces to hold little ones’ attention. Colourful ceramics, ornate costumes and detailed artefacts often spark curiosity and create a memorable learning experience.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hue

Planning ahead can help you enjoy everything Hue has to offer, from exploring its historic sites to soaking in its natural beauty.

Best Time to Visit

Like the rest of Vietnam, Hue has a tropical climate with distinct dry and rainy seasons. The dry season runs from March to August, with sunny days and warmer temperatures, while September to December brings heavier rainfall. January and February are cooler and drier, making outdoor sightseeing more comfortable.

For the best weather, plan your visit between February and April when it’s warm and mostly dry, ideal for exploring.

Transportation

Get around Hue by traditional cyclo for a leisurely city tour, by taxi for convenience or by motorbike if you’re confident navigating local traffic. For a scenic approach, take a dragon boat along the Perfume River to see the city from the water.

Angsana Lang Co offers a complimentary Da Nang – Lang Co Shuttle Bus, available daily for booking guests. There is also an Angsana airport shuttle service with drop-off and pick-up at Da Nang International Airport, making arrivals and departures more convenient.

Local Delicacies

Hue is known for its rich culinary heritage, with flavours shaped by its royal history. Try bun bo Hue, a spicy beef noodle soup, or banh khoai, a crispy pancake filled with savoury ingredients. Don’t miss com hen (baby clam rice) and an assortment of traditional Hue cakes like banh beo, banh nam and banh bot loc. For something sweet, order a bowl of che Hue (Hue sweet soup).

Dong Ba Market is a popular spot to sample multiple dishes in one visit. In the evening, Vo Thi Sau, Chu Van An and Pham Ngu Lao streets come alive with colourful lanterns, live performances and a variety of local cuisine to enjoy.

Discover Hue From Angsana Lang Co

From ancient palaces and historic tombs to lively markets and scenic landscapes, Hue offers a wealth of experiences for every traveller. Whether exploring as a family or on your own, the city’s rich culture and natural beauty leave lasting memories.

For those travelling with kids, Angsana Lang Co is the best luxury family resort in Vietnam. Located in Lang Co Bay, our beach resort near Hue and Da Nang offers a private three-kilometre stretch of Canh Duong Beach and is ideally situated amidst three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Hoi An Ancient Town, the Imperial Citadel of Hue and My Son Sanctuary.

Book your next getaway in Vietnam at our all-inclusive resort and sense the moment with Angsana Lang Co.