When we think of Hué, the Imperial City—a UNESCO World Heritage site—immediately comes to mind. Yet Vietnam's former capital under the Nguyen dynasty has far more to offer discerning travelers. Natural, historical, and cultural treasures scattered throughout its surroundings reveal a more complete picture of the region. Without exploring them, any visit to Hué remains incomplete. Let us guide you through them.

What to Do Around Hué?

Visit Thuy Bieu Village

Nestled in a meander of the Perfume River, 6 km from Hué's center, Thuy Bieu village enchants visitors with its serenity and sprawling grapefruit orchards. Here grows the Thanh Tra, a sweet pomelo once reserved exclusively for royal families.

Beyond its peaceful character and orchards, Thuy Bieu is renowned for its centuries-old houses, which offer glimpses into the traditional architecture distinctive to Hué. An equally compelling attraction is its remarkably preserved arena, dating back over two hundred years. This venue once hosted elephant and tiger fights staged for the amusement of kings and court officials.

Marvel at the Majestic Celestial Lady Pagoda

Located 5 km from Hué's center, the Celestial Lady Pagoda is a historical gem dating to the 17th century. Rising majestically above the Perfume River, it stands out for its slender seven-story octagonal tower and elegant architecture. An important pilgrimage site and emblematic monument of Vietnamese Buddhism, it houses ancient Buddhist sculptures and relics, as well as a colossal bell whose resonance carries across the region. The serene atmosphere and panoramic views of the river make it a place of exceptional contemplation and spirituality, drawing countless visitors.

Uncover the Art of Incense-Making at Thuy Xuan Village

Thuy Xuan village once supplied incense to the royal court of the Nguyen dynasty and local notables. It remains a precious custodian of incense-making traditions, preserving a heritage spanning over 700 years.

During your visit, local artisans will welcome you into their ancestral craft. You can enhance the experience by trying on an áo dài—traditional Vietnamese clothing—an unforgettable photo opportunity.

Dive Into the Artisanal Crafts of Sinh Village

Located approximately 8 km from Hué's citadel, Sinh village is celebrated for its woodblock prints, originally created for religious ceremonies to invoke prosperity. These delicate artworks are produced by local craftsmen using ancestral techniques and traditional do paper.

The prints often depict scenes of daily life, natural landscapes, and Vietnamese cultural motifs. Visitors can observe their creation process and purchase examples as memorable souvenirs.

Glimpse the Hon Chen Temple

The Hon Chen temple, 10 km from Hué's center, honors Po Nagar, the mother goddess of the Champa kingdom, revered by Vietnamese as Thien Y A Na, the "Divine Mother." Located near Ngoc Tran mountain, the site has existed for centuries, though the current structure dates to the 19th century.

The setting is enchanting, with its beauty reflected gracefully on the Perfume River's surface.

Visit Khải Định's Mausoleum

Khải Định, who reigned from 1916 to 1925, was Vietnam's penultimate emperor. The sovereign chose the mountainside of Chau Chu, 10 km from the Imperial City, to establish his mausoleum. The tomb is magnificent and well worth the visit.

Unwind at Thuân An Beach

Less crowded than neighboring beaches, Thuân An is a tranquil haven perfect for relaxation. Its name means "peaceful" in Vietnamese.

This beautiful stretch of Thua Thiên-Huê province's coastline lies 15 km from Hué, near where the Perfume River meets the sea. Locals visit on weekends to enjoy its beauty and wade in its waters.

Savor Bucolic Views from Vong Canh Hill

Vong Canh hill, 7 km from Hué's center, was a favorite vantage point of Nguyen kings for contemplating the region's natural splendor. This 40-meter elevation offers sweeping views of Ngoc Tran mountain and the tile-roofed villages below. Descend 300 meters to discover the Van Nien hydroelectric facility. Several mausoleums surround Vong Canh, including those of Ba Thanh Cung, Xuong Tho, Thieu Tri, Tu Duc, and Dong Khanh.

Embark on a Boat Cruise Along the Perfume River

Spanning approximately one hundred kilometers, the Perfume River winds along Vietnam's coast. It flows through Hué before emptying into the South China Sea.

The waterway owes its name to the intoxicating fragrance released each spring by flowering fruit trees growing along its banks. A romantic boat journey on this river is among the quintessential activities during a Hué visit. The cruise passes numerous sites, including the Celestial Lady Pagoda.

Explore Vietnam's Largest Lagoon

Extending from the O Lau estuary to that of Huong, Tam Giang lagoon, 12 km from Hué, is Vietnam's largest—and all of Southeast Asia's largest—lagoon. It captivates with its serene natural beauty. One of its attractions is the floating market. Unlike the bustling floating markets of southwest Vietnam, this one opens at 4 a.m. and closes around 6-7 a.m., serving as the trading hub for local seafood.

Another highlight is the lagoon's ancient fishing village, Duong Ha, where you can appreciate the beauty of traditional Vietnamese settlements.

The 5-hectare Ru Cha mangroves are equally unmissable during your lagoon exploration. They form enormous rows evoking vast walls of green trees. A diverse array of fish and shrimp inhabit these waters.

Spend a Day at Lang Co Beach

Of striking beauty, Lang Co beach unfolds a crescent of fine yellow and white sand, overlooked by the mountains of Bach Ma National Park. This clean, 10-km stretch is perfect for leisurely days. Lang Co Beach Resort sits nearby.

Visiting Lang Co is also an opportunity to venture to Lap An lagoon, with its turquoise waters and stunning sunsets. Should Lang Co's waves prove too strong, the tranquil Elephant Spring—a natural freshwater pool—awaits nearby.

Capture Breathtaking Views from Hai Van Pass

Named by The Guardian as one of the world's 10 most scenic drives, Hai Van Pass—literally "Cloud Pass"—impresses with its picturesque coastal landscapes. On one side lie the verdant Truong mountains; on the other stretches the vastness of the South China Sea.

The 25-km pass sits 500 meters above sea level, positioned 80 km from Hué and 20 km from Da Nang. Its summit offers spectacular views of Da Nang and Lang Co bay.

Due to its winding road, Hai Van Pass is popular among thrill-seeking motorcyclists. Before the construction of the Hai Van tunnel, it was primarily known for the high number of accidents it recorded annually. Small altars dedicated to its victims still line the roadside.

Practical Information

When to Visit Hué's Surroundings?

The best time to explore Hué's environs is summer, from April to August. Clear skies and warm seas invite refreshing swims. Late January through March offers cooler weather and gentle sunshine, worth considering for a gentler climate. The rainy season, from September through early January, is best avoided. Beyond abundant rainfall, storms can occur during this period.

To reach Hué from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, three transport options are available: airplane, train, and bus.

Flights are operated by Vietnam Airlines, VietjetAir, and Jetstar. Planes land either at Phu Bai airport (15 km from Hué) or Da Nang airport (approximately 100 km away).

Trains offer a picturesque journey through provincial villages, though journeys are lengthy (13 to 20 hours).

Buses provide an economical alternative, though they too require a full day of travel. From Hanoi, sleeper buses depart from Giap Bat or Nuoc Ngam stations; from Ho Chi Minh City, they leave Mien Dong station.