About
Hue is a city in central Vietnam, in the province of Thua Thien Hue, and it served as the country's former imperial capital. Its historic core, the Imperial City, and its royal tombs are the reasons most visitors come, and several of its sites are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
What to see
- The Imperial City, the walled complex that once stood at the heart of the imperial court, is the city's best-known landmark.
- The royal tombs scattered around the outskirts of the city are a central part of the Hue experience and give a sense of the dynasty that ruled from here.
- The Perfume River runs through the city and is where much of its daily life and scenery unfolds.
What kind of visit it makes
Hue suits travellers interested in history, architecture and heritage. It is a city to walk or take a slow trip through, moving between the imperial monuments, the tombs and the riverside. The pace is unhurried, and the historic sites reward time spent looking closely rather than rushing from one to the next.
Because the sites are spread across the city and its surroundings, planning a route in advance helps, and allowing more than a single day makes it possible to see the main monuments without rushing. Those who enjoy quiet, reflective sightseeing will likely find Hue a rewarding stop on a journey through Vietnam.