In this travel guide to Hue, Vietnam, we uncover the top things to do, the coolest hotels, and more in this historic capital city.
The city of Hue, Vietnam is so rich in history, culture, and natural beauty that it will leave its mark on you long after you leave. Everything from stunning art deco hotels, and relaxing tours down the Perfume River, to eclectic food experiences will capture your heart and leave you wanting more of its understated beauty. And let’s not forget the history that has passed through those Citadel Walls and Imperial Palace, as Hue was once the centre of all things Vietnam. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just seeking tranquillity, Hue has a little something special for everyone. Presenting, our guide to Hue, Vietnam.
Where to stay: Recharge in royal suites to eco-friendly retreats
1. Azerai Le Residence
If you wanna experience what life might feel like living in a 1930s Agatha Christie-inspired movie, then Azerai Le Residence should be top of the pops. Set in a restored colonial mansion, this exquisite boutique hotel offers luxurious rooms with a blend of French colonial, art deco vibes and modern Vietnamese aesthetics. Taste, style, and refinement are found in every nook and cranny – guests have nine different room choices ranging from the elegant Superior River View and Deluxe Rooms to the more luxurious suites like the Colonial Junior Suite and the expansive Resident Suite. Some are beautifully furnished with exquisite features such as rolled top baths, four poster beds, private balconies or sun terraces, with stunning views of the Perfume River and lush gardens.
Guests will find it impossible to tear away from the inviting saltwater pool, spa, bar and stunning Le Parfum restaurant and brasserie serving Vietnamese and Western dishes. Al fresco dining is available on the external terrace with views of the river and beyond.
Azerai Le Residence, 5 Le Loi Street, Hue City, Vietnam
2. Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel & Spa
Step into this luxurious sanctuary in the heart of Hue and you’ll be greeted with the warm hospitality and exquisite decor that defines this elegant hotel. The spacious rooms, adorned with traditional Vietnamese touches and modern amenities, offer stunning views of the Perfume River or the lush gardens. Choose from a range of dining options featuring a blend of local flavours and international cuisine. The sweeping pool will cool you down on hot days, while the spa, with its range of rejuvenating treatments, is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring nearby attractions like the Imperial City and Thien Mu Pagoda. With its impeccable service, prime location, and luxurious amenities, Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel & Spa is the perfect hotel for families and those looking for grandeur!
Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel & Spa, 2 Lê Lợi, Vĩnh Ninh, Thành phố Huế, Thừa Thiên Huế
3. Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa
This super serene retreat sits in lush greenery, providing a peaceful escape just 4km from the hustle of Hue. Sustainability features heavily and offers beautifully furnished bungalows, huts, villas, and houses, some with private pools and gardens. Guests can enjoy various activities such as Vietnamese cooking classes, Tai Chi, and tours to nearby attractions like the tombs of Khai Dinh and Tu Duc. The resort also boasts two restaurants offering Vietnamese and international cuisine, as well as a luxurious spa and multiple swimming pools.
Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa, 130 Minh Mạng, Thủy Xuân, Thành phố Huế, Thừa Thiên Huế
Where to eat: Cheap street eats to charming dining experiences
Hue’s unique cuisine, which is known for its royal-inspired dishes, ensures there’s something for every taste bud. Must-try foods include Bun Bo Hue (beef noodle soup), Banh Khoai (savoury pancakes), and of course everyone’s favourite ‘sarnie’ banh mi. One of the best things you can do for exceptional chow is simply take a stroll through Hue’s Night Walking Street, where there’s no shortage of local food, but also filled with street performances, and the chance to shop for handicrafts and souvenirs.
4. Le Cercle
Make sure not to miss dining at the stunning art deco inspired, Le Cercle Sportif for lunch or dinner. Nestled beside the serene Perfume River, the restaurant offers a diverse and exquisite menu with appetisers like young jackfruit and minced pork salad and deep fried spring rolls with pork and prawn. Main courses feature unique dishes such as Huế Style grilled wagyu beef noodle or more western-inspired Le Cercle Pizza with wagyu beef.
The seafood selection, including the shared grilled seafood platter and trilogy oysters, is particularly noteworthy and perfect for special occasion meals. Desserts, such as mango sticky rice with coconut sauce and classic tiramisu, offer a perfect ending to the meal. There’s even a coffee and ice cream bar on site allowing handy takeaways for the obligatory stroll along the stunning Perfume river, which at night, also makes Le Cercle the perfect place to pitch up, feast on and watch the world go by.
Le Cercle, 11 Le Loi, Vinh Ninh, Hue
5. Les Jardins de la Carambole
Les Jardins de la Carambole in Hue offers a charming dining experience with its colonial-style decor and serene ambience. Located near the Citadel, it provides a perfect blend of French and Vietnamese cuisines. The menu features dishes like duck confit and local specialties such as bánh khoái. The elegant setting, coupled with attentive service and a diverse wine selection, makes it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion. The restaurant’s beautiful garden and tranquil atmosphere enhance the overall dining experience, making it a must-visit in Hue.
Les Jardins de la Carambole, 32 Dang Tran Con, Hue, Vietnam Hue, Thừa Thiên–Huế Province
6. Cam niue Chan
Step into Chan Com Niêu Huế and get ready to savour the true flavours of Hue’s culinary heritage. This gem offers an authentic Vietnamese dining experience that captures the heart of the city’s rich food culture. The moment you walk in, the cosy, traditional decor welcomes you, setting the scene for an unforgettable feast. The menu boasts a variety of local specialties, including the must-try cơm niêu (clay pot rice) and bánh khoái (savoury pancakes). Each dish is meticulously prepared, showcasing fresh ingredients and rich flavours. Chan Com Niêu Huế is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy genuine Vietnamese cuisine in a charming setting.
Cam niue Chan, 01 Nguyễn Thái Học Hue, Thừa Thiên–Huế Province
7. Enjoy a food tour
If you love cheap and exceptionally good food, then this food tour of Hue is an absolute must! Picture yourself enjoying a leisurely Cyclo ride along the ancient walls of the “Great Enclosure – Dai Noi,” before diving into a feast along the Hue Food Trail. You might want to wear your stretchy pants because this tour is all about indulgence, with up to six different courses to savour.
Start your culinary journey at the renowned Huyen Anh restaurant, where you’ll indulge in fresh rice rolls with grilled pork. From there, it’s on to discover the delicious Banh khoai – Hue’s signature pancake with shrimp and pork – before heading to Hanh Restaurant to feast on Beo, Nam, Loc, and other popular Hue specialties.
And just when you think you can’t eat another bite, you’ll be treated to Hue’s famous sweet soup desserts at Che Hem on Hung Vuong Street. These desserts, once reserved for the Nguyen Royal families, offer over 15 different types of Hue sweet soups for you to sample if you can find the room!
Things to do in Hue, Vietnam
8. Explore ancient and religious sites alongside quaint Insta-worthy villages
As the once-ancient capital of Vietnam, Hues offers visitors and those looking to immerse in an exceptionally rich trip down memory lane. Take a tour with a qualified tour guide to really get the most out of your time.
Explore the famous Imperial City alongside other extraordinary sites with Azerai’s half-day Hue tour. You’ll visit the Imperial City (Citadel), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which served as the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, including palaces, temples, walls, and gates, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s royal past. Be sure to check out the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, the tallest in Vietnam and the former home of Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh, located on the banks of the Perfume River.
For those who love to exercise and explore, then try a full-day cycling tour to discover ancient and elaborate tombs of the Nguyen emperors, including the Tomb of Tu Duc. Each tomb reflects the unique personality and style of the emperor it commemorates. Cap off your day with a visit to the picturesque, Instagram-worthy Thuy Xuan Village, where you can shop for souvenirs and goodies while observing the traditional crafts of incense-stick making and bronze casting up close. Take a leisurely stroll to enjoy the scenic beauty of Hue and visit key historical sites along the riverbanks, such as the Hon Chen Temple and regal royal tombs.
Shopaholics can indulge in the famous Dong Ba Market and experience the bustling atmosphere of shops for local products, and souvenirs, and sample traditional Vietnamese street food.
Cross the frontline with a tour of the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) and see first hand how Hue was on the frontline of the Vietnam War (or American War). Then head out to the DMZ and take your time to capture the symbolic power of wartime sites, including the ancient town of Quang Tri, Hien Luong Bridge, Doc Mieu Firebase and the Vinh Moc Tunnels.
How to get to Hue from Singapore
Fly to Da Nang: Book a direct flight from Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to Da Nang International Airport (DAD). Airlines like Singapore Airlines, VietJet Air, and SilkAir offer direct flights, with a flight time of approximately 2.5 hours.
Travel from Da Nang to Hue: By Car/Taxi: Hire a taxi or private car for a scenic two to three-hour drive. Many services offer this, and it can be arranged in advance or at the airport.
By Bus: Take a bus from Da Nang to Hue. Bus services like Sinh Tourist, Hoang Long, and others operate regularly, with a journey time of around three to four hours.
By Train: Catch a train from Da Nang Railway Station to Hue Railway Station. The train journey takes about two and a half to three hours, offering beautiful coastal views along the way. Check the Vietnam Railways schedule and book tickets in advance.
Good to know
Visa Requirements: Check the visa requirements for your Nationality entering Vietnam prior to travel.
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND): Ensure to exchange some SGD for VND. ATMs and money exchange services are widely available.
Language: Vietnamese: English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can be helpful.
Time Zone: Indochina Time (ICT): Hue is 1 hour behind Singapore.
Weather: Tropical Monsoon Climate: Warm and humid. The best time to visit is from February to April when the weather is cooler and drier.
There’s no doubt that Hue is a city that has it all and beautifully combines historical significance, natural beauty, incredible food at extremely affordable prices and fabulous places to stay, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for off-the-beaten-track travel in Vietnam.
