Luxury Tailor-Made Vietnam Holidays Hue 2024 & 2025
Beguiling and beautiful, the former capital of Vietnam is still revered as a cultural and religious centre, and achieved UNESCO World Heritage status in 1993. The city owes its charm in part to its setting on the Perfume River, but more significantly, to its many ancient temples and palaces – all vestiges of the last remaining Vietnamese dynasty, the Nguyen dynasty.
The 19th century Hue Citadel, otherwise known as The Imperial City, should be high on your ‘to-see' list (you will need a day to get through the entire complex); while scattered along the riverbank are myriad more shrines and stupa, including the Thien Mu Pagoda with its octagonal tower. Bathe in a number of mineral hot springs, take a boat trip along the river, or take a ‘food tour’ of the superb eateries in town.
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Things to do and see in Hue
Explore the Imperial City (Citadel)
Hue's Imperial City, also known as the Citadel, is a UNESCO World Heritage site on the northern bank of the Perfume River and spans over 500 hectares. You can visit the vast grounds and numerous historical buildings to get a deeper understanding of Vietnam's imperial past.
Despite significant damage during the Vietnam Wat the Citadel has gone through extensive restoration efforts to preserve its historical and cultural significance.
We can arrange guided tours for insights into the history, architecture and cultural practices of the Nguyen Dynasty. The Citadel also hosts cultural performances such as traditional music and dance, which will transport you into the lives of emperors that once lived here.
Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda
The Thien Mu Pagoda is perched gracefully on Ha Khe Hill, overlooking the serene Perfume River, and it is one of the oldest religious structures in the city and also one of the most revered Buddist sites in Vietnam.
The pagoda is an active religious site hosting regular Buddhist ceremonies and festivals.
The pagoda is also surrounded by beautifully maintained bonsai gardens and tranquil courtyards, perfect for meditation and reflection. A visit to the Thien Mu Pagoda is a journey into the spiritual and historical heart of Hue and is a must-see destination.
Cruise Along the Perfume River
Perfume River ia a central feautre of Hue, named for the fragrant flowers that fall into the water from upriver. The river has served as a major transportation route for goods and people lending to trade and communication. It was also integral to the royal life of the Nguyen Dynasty with palaces, pagodas and royal tombs along its banks.
One of the most popular ways to experience the Perfume River is via a scenic boat cruise. Just sit back and enjoy the leisurely journey down the river, taking in the natural beauty and cultural landmarks along the way. Sunset cruises are a particlar favourite for the breath-taking views as the sun sets over the water.
Best Time to Visit Hue
The best time to visit Sapa is during the autumn months of September to November when the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for trekking and exploring. During this period, the rice terraces turn a stunning golden yellow as they ripen for harvest, offering breath-taking landscapes and vibrant cultural activities. However, each season in Sapa has its unique charm: spring (March to May) brings blooming flowers and mild weather, summer (June to August) features lush green terraces and cool mountain retreats, and winter (December to February) offers a peaceful, less crowded experience with the possibility of snow and festive Tet celebrations.
Sample Itineraries Including Hue
Our sample itineraries will show you suggestions for what you can do, see, and the best places to stay while travelling in Sapa.
If you like the look of any of these below, let us know and we can completely tailor-make your trip so it is totally unique to you!
Our Favourite Hotel in Hue
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Interested in booking a tailor-made holiday to Vietnam or have any other questions? Give us a call on 01442 617777 or fill out our contact form below.