In this post I write about Hue Vietnam: explore the cultural richness with this guide to 25 must-visit attractions—from ancient citadels to peaceful pagodas. Each tourist sight reveals a unique piece of the city’s heritage, offering deep insight into the history and charm that define Hue. Dive into Vietnam’s imperial past and experience the timeless beauty that makes Hue a cultural gem in Central Vietnam.

Hon Chen Temple Hue sits atop Ngoc Tran Mountain in Ngoc Ho Village, This sacred site holds deep spiritual significance for locals and uniquely combines royal rituals with folk beliefs, making it a standout place of worship in Hue Vietnam.

Ten temple structures line the lush slopes of Ngoc Tran Mountain, all facing the serene Huong River. Beyond its cultural importance, Hon Chen Temple offers stunning natural views, perfect for sightseeing and photography in Hue.

Getting to Hon Chen Temple in Hue is simple. You can:

• Take a scenic Dragon Boat ride along the Huong River from central Hue
• Drive via Bui Thi Xuan Street to Huyen Tran Cong Chua Street, reach Than Wharf, and take a quick ferry across

The temple remains open all year, but the most vibrant time to visit is during the Hon Chen Temple Festival, held on the 2nd–3rd days of the third lunar month (April) and again in lunar July (August). These festivals celebrate Holy Mother beliefs and offer a deep dive into Hue’s spiritual traditions and cultural heritage.

• Admission: Free
• Opening hours: All day
• Address: Hai Cat Village, Huong Tra District, Thua Thien Hue
• Things not to miss: Explore the small structures inside Hon Chen Temple, join the Hon Chen Temple Festival.

Tu Hieu Pagoda Hue, located in Duong Xuan Hamlet and surrounded by a peaceful pine forest, ranks among the oldest pagodas in Hue. Built during the Nguyen Dynasty, the pagoda reflects 19th-century feudal architecture with detailed dragon and phoenix carvings on its pillars and signature curved tiled roofs—hallmarks of traditional Vietnamese design.

More than just a historic site, Tu Hieu Pagoda offers a serene, spiritual retreat for locals and tourists. During the seventh lunar month, especially during the Vu Lan Festival, young Buddhists visit the pagoda to express gratitude to their parents, honoring life and family bonds.

Reaching Tu Hieu Pagoda in Hue Vietnam is simple—just 5 kilometers from the city center. You can take a motorbike, taxi, or car via Dien Bien Phu and Le Ngo Cat streets, following well-marked directions.

• Admission: Free
• Opening hours: All day
• Address: Duong Xuan Thuong III village, Thuy Xuan, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue
• Things not to miss: Admire the architecture of Tu Hieu Pagoda, Visit the unique cemetery of Nguyen Dynasty’s high-ranking mandarins.

Located just 8 kilometers south of Hue City, the Huyen Tran Cultural Center—also known as the Huyen Tran Princess Temple—serves as a revered spiritual and cultural destination in Central Vietnam.

Thua Thien-Hue locals originally built a temple to honor Princess Huyen Tran, but wars and historical upheaval led to its destruction. In 2006, local authorities began reconstructing the site, officially opening the Huyen Tran Cultural Center on March 26, 2007, to celebrate 700 years of the region’s heritage.

Every year, from the first to the ninth day of the Lunar New Year, thousands attend the Huyen Tran Festival. The celebration honors the princess’s legacy with court music, spiritual ceremonies, and cultural performances from neighboring provinces like Quang Binh and Quang Tri, offering visitors a deep cultural and historical experience.

• Admission: Free
• Opening hours: All day
• Address: Huyen Tran Cultural Center, An Tay, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue
• Things not to miss: Visit the temple, join the Huyen Tran Festival

Bach Ma National Park, located near Hue, Vietnam, attracts nature lovers and adventure seekers with its rich biodiversity, rare plant species, and diverse wildlife. Spanning 22,031 hectares, this primary forest in Central Vietnam hosts 1,406 plant species and 931 animal species.

The best time to explore Bach Ma National Park is during the dry season from December to April, when the weather is cooler and ideal for trekking, wildlife spotting, and swimming in natural streams. Learn about Best time to visit Vietnam

Located just 40 kilometers from Hue City, making it an ideal day trip option, travelers can reach the park by motorbike, car, or taxi, or private tour. To reach the summit, choose between a scenic trek or a guided tour vehicle—just ensure you’re physically prepared for the adventure.

• Adults: VND 60,000 (~ USD 2.61) per person
• Children: 20,000 VND (~ USD 0.87) per child
• Opening hours: All day
• Address: Bach Ma National Park, Phu Loc district, Hue
• Things not to miss: Visit Vong Hai Dai (sea observatory), Explore Bach Ma Five Lakes, Do Quyen and Tri Sao waterfall, Cho Den forest, Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery, Hue.

Nam Giao Esplanade Hue, located in Duong Xuan Village south of the ancient citadel, offers a unique blend of spiritual history and architectural artistry. This sacred site served as the ceremonial grounds where Nguyen kings performed rituals to honor heaven and earth.

Spanning 10 hectares, Nam Giao Esplanade includes the Giao Altar and structures like the Temple of Than Tru, Trai Cung, and Than Kho. The Royal Chamber once hosted the king’s purification ceremonies before the main event. In 1993, UNESCO recognized Nam Giao Esplanade as a World Cultural Heritage Site. By 1997, Vietnam designated it a national historical and cultural relic.

Travelers can easily reach Nam Giao Esplanade in Hue Vietnam by motorbike, taxi, or bus. The site stays open year-round, making it convenient to visit whenever you’re in Hue.

• Admission: VND 50,000 (~USD 2) per person
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Address: Truong An Ward, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue
• Things not to miss: Explore the architecture inside the Nam Giao Esplanade

Quoc Hoc High School Hue, also known as Quoc Hoc Junior High School, proudly stands along the scenic Huong River in the heart of Hue Vietnam. Its iconic red gate marks the entrance to one of Vietnam’s oldest and most prestigious educational institutions, with a legacy spanning over 120 years.

This historic school in Hue nurtured many of the nation’s great leaders, including President Ho Chi Minh, Prime Minister Pham Van Dong, General Vo Nguyen Giap, and historian Dao Duy Anh. Quoc Hoc High School Hue continues to function as an active learning center, so full access may be limited.

Visitors can explore the school grounds on weekday afternoons or all day on Sundays. Dress modestly and respectfully to reflect the educational environment and the heritage of this iconic landmark in Hue Vietnam.

• Admission: Free
• Opening hours: 6:45 AM – 5:00 PM
• Address: 12 Le Loi, Vinh Ninh, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue
• Things not to miss: Exploring the school campus

The Hue Imperial Citadel, a highlight of the larger Hue Citadel complex, ranks among the top tourist attractions in Hue Vietnam. This historic site once housed Nguyen dynasty royalty and served as a sacred space for ancestral worship.

Located in the heart of Hue City, the Imperial City sits just across the Huong River. You can easily reach it via Trang Tien or Phu Xuan Bridge. The best time to visit the Hue Imperial Citadel is during April and June of even-numbered years when lively cultural festivals light up the citadel with traditional Hue singing, water puppetry, and other artistic performances.

Tourists can explore striking landmarks like Tu Cam Thanh, admire detailed architecture, and experience the soul of Hue through royal court music and folk shows. For the best experience, visit in the morning for cooler weather or early afternoon to catch golden light on the ancient walls.

• Entrance ticket: Adults: VND 150,000 (~ USD 6.16) per person
• Children: VND 30,000 (~ USD 1.23) per person
• Opening hours: Summer: 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM; Winter: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Address: Hue City, Thua Thien Hue
• Things not to miss: Explore the history, architecture, and historical sites within the Imperial City of Hue.

Tiger Arena and Voi Re Temple in Hue Vietnam boast a legacy of over 200 years, earning the nickname “Vietnamese Colosseum” among locals. This unique historical site in Hue captivates visitors with its distinctive architecture and the legendary battle between a tiger and an elephant.

In 1904, during King Thanh Thai’s reign, the final dramatic clash between tiger and elephant unfolded here, marking a symbolic moment in Nguyen Dynasty history. The Vietnamese government designated Tiger Arena as a national historical relic in 1988, and UNESCO recognized it as a World Cultural Heritage site in 1993.

Today, Tiger Arena Hue and the nearby Voi Re Temple offer cultural travelers in Hue an authentic glimpse into Vietnam’s royal traditions, spiritual beliefs, and historical grandeur.

• Admission: Free
• Opening hours: Daily
• Address: Truong Da Village, Thuy Bieu Ward, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue
• Things not to miss: Explore the history of formation and the unique architecture of the Tiger Arena & Voi Re Temple.

Thuan An Beach in Hue Vietnam sits near the entrance of the Thuan An River and features three well-developed sections that make it a lively destination for beach tourism. Often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Hue, it attracts visitors with soft white sands, clear waters, and a peaceful vibe—ideal for anyone craving a refreshing coastal escape.

Located just 15 kilometers from Hue City, Thuan An Beach takes about 30 minutes to reach by car or motorbike. The best time to visit is between April and September, when warm, sunny weather and cool seas create perfect conditions for swimming, relaxing, and beachside fun. Travelers can explore nearby attractions like Tran Hai Dai, Thai Duong Phu Nhan Temple, the fishing port, or enjoy camping and photo ops at Century Beach.

This coastal gem complements the broader list of top of must-visit attractions in Hue, offering a perfect blend of nature and heritage. From historic imperial sites to stunning beach destinations like Thuan An, Hue Vietnam delivers a culturally rich and visually captivating experience for every traveler.

• Admission: Free
• Opening hours: All day
• Address: Thuận An Town, Phu Vang District, Hue City
• Things not to miss: Sea bathing and savoring local specialties, visit tourist attractions (near) Thuan An beach.

Vong Canh Hill in ranks high among the top attractions in Hue, offering breathtaking views of the city’s natural harmony—where sky, river, mountain, and greenery meet. Known as the best place to catch the Hue sunset, this hilltop delivers a magical scene as day turns to dusk.

Visitors who reach Vong Canh Hill enjoy panoramic views of the Huong River winding through the landscape, framed by pine forests and distant mountains. Just 500 to 700 meters away, travelers can explore royal tombs from various Nguyen Dynasty kings, adding historical depth to the scenic spot.

Most visitors opt for a motorbike ride from Hue’s city center, taking about 30 minutes. Renting a self-drive bike or asking locals for directions keeps the trip simple and flexible. It’s best to drop off your bags at your hotel before heading out.

To witness the most stunning Hue sunset, plan your visit between 4:30 PM and 6:00 PM during the summer months. This golden hour brings out the full beauty of Vong Canh Hill—one of the must-see destinations in Hue Vietnam.

• Admission: Free
• Opening hours: All day
• Address: 102 Huyen Tran Cong Chua, Thuy Bieu, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue
• Things not to miss: Enjoying the sunset at Vong Canh Hill

The Huong River in Hue Vietnam flows as a timeless symbol of the ancient capital, captivating travelers with its natural charm and poetic presence. For centuries, this river has inspired countless poets and artists, serving as a soulful muse that continues to fuel Hue’s rich literary and artistic legacy.

One of the most unforgettable experiences in Hue involves enjoying traditional royal music on the Huong River. Every traveler to Hue should reserve an evening to drift along the river and immerse themselves in the resonant melodies of this cultural treasure. Ticket prices for these performances range from 200,000 to 1,000,000 VND ($8.70–$43.50), depending on the experience.

For the most magical view, visit between 5:00 PM and 5:30 PM when the sunset reflects off the river, creating a serene, golden landscape. While visitors can explore the Huong River in Hue year-round, spring and autumn provide the most pleasant weather. During these seasons, the river appears particularly tranquil and clear, and local food vendors offer some of the most delicious specialties Hue Vietnam is known for.

• Admission: Free
• Opening hours: All day
• Address: City center of Hue, Thua Thien Hue Province
• Things not to miss: Enjoy the beauty of the Huong River on a boat cruise, experience Hue’s traditional music, admire the sunset on the Huong River

Dong Khanh Tomb, also known as Tu Lang, lies in Cu Si Village, Duong Xuan Commune—now Thượng Hai Hamlet, Thuy Xuan Commune—in Hue City. Surrounded by a tranquil setting and steeped in historical charm, this site stands as a key destination within the Complex of Hue Monuments, recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site since 1993.

Travelers exploring Dong Khanh Tomb in Hue Vietnam gain deep insight into its layered history. The tomb took over 35 years to complete, evolving through construction, renovation, and modernization across four reigns—from King Dong Khanh to King Thanh Thai, King Duy Tan, and King Khai Dinh.

To experience the tomb at its best, plan your trip between January and April. During this time, Hue Vietnam enjoys mild weather, clear skies, and a peaceful atmosphere—ideal conditions for visiting this architectural and historical gem.

• Admission: Adults: 50,000 VND (~ USD 2.05) per person
• Children aged 7 – 12: Free
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Address: Thuong Hai Hamlet, Thuy Xuan Commune
• Things not to miss: Explore the Dong Khanh Tomb complex.

The Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge attracts travelers as one of the most iconic Hue tourist destinations. More than just an architectural marvel, the bridge reflects the deep cultural and historical evolution of Hue Vietnam over centuries.

Built with a style described as “upper grandeur, lower simplicity,” the Thanh Toan Bridge shares its rare design with other ancient landmarks like Khuc Thoai Bridge, Phu Khe Bridge in Northern Vietnam, and Cau Pagoda in Hoi An.

On the 15th day of the lunar month, locals in Thanh Thuy commune honor Mrs. Tran Thi Dao—the woman behind the bridge’s construction. The celebration features vibrant ceremonies, traditional performances, and cultural tourism activities, offering visitors a unique, immersive experience in the heart of Hue’s countryside.

• Admission: Free
• Opening hours: Daily
• Address: Thuy Thanh Commune, Huong Thuy Town, Hue
• Things not to miss: Explore the ancient beauty and capture memorable photos at the Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge in Hue, and participate in the Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge festival.

Dong Ba Market Hue ranks as the most famous traditional market in Hue Vietnam, offering a vibrant shopping and cultural experience. This bustling marketplace features everything from clothes and household items to fresh produce, dried goods, local handicrafts, and Hue souvenirs.

Located in the heart of Hue City, you can easily reach Dong Ba Market via taxi or motorbike along Tran Hung Dao Street, right beside the scenic Perfume River.

The market stays busy throughout the day, but visiting after 3:00 PM provides a more comfortable atmosphere. The heat eases, crowds lessen, and most Hue street food stalls begin serving up local favorites. It’s the perfect time to explore, shop, and taste the rich flavors of Hue Vietnam.

• Admission: Free
• Opening hours: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Address: No. 2 Tran Hung Dao, Phu Hoa, Hue City
• Things not to miss: Experience shopping, taste local dishes, and buy souvenirs

The Duyet Thi Duong Theater in Hue, Vietnam, dates back to the Nguyen Dynasty and stands proudly inside the Forbidden City of Hue Imperial Citadel. Built as a dedicated performance venue, this historic structure served as the official Hue royal theater, hosting elegant court rituals and entertainment.

Inside the Duyet Thi Duong Theater, performers bring to life traditional Vietnamese art forms, including court music, royal dances, tuồng (classical Vietnamese opera), and historical dramas. In its golden days, the audience included the king, royal family members, officials, and visiting dignitaries.

Today, the theater hosts four scheduled performances daily. Visitors can enjoy mesmerizing Hue royal court music, explore the intricate wooden architecture, and admire the detailed carvings and royal aesthetics that make this venue a treasure of Vietnam traditional theater.

There are four performances daily:

• Show 1: 9:00 AM – 9:45 AM;
• Show 2: 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM;

• Show 3: 2:30 PM – 3:15 PM;
• Show 4: 3:30 PM – 4:15 PM.

• Admission: VND 200,000 (~ USD 8.22) per person
• Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Address: Doan Thi Diem, Phu Hau, Hue City
• Things not to miss: Experience various traditional art forms, explore the architecture of the ancient theater.

For centuries, Hue has been the heart of conical hat crafting, with traditional villages like Da Le, Sia, Phu Cam, Kim Long, Đoc So, and Trieu Tay leading the way. The My Lam conical hat-making village, with a history spanning nearly 160 years, continues to pass down the craft, with around 80% of households still dedicated to this art.

In early 2014, My Lam Village earned recognition as a key traditional craft village in Hue, highlighting its role in preserving the unique cultural heritage of Hue conical hats. Visitors can dive into the fascinating process of crafting these iconic hats, from selecting frames to designing intricate patterns, each requiring meticulous skill and precision.

The ideal time to visit My Lam hat-making village in Hue falls between March and August, when the weather is drier and more pleasant for exploring the village and watching artisans at work. While the village welcomes visitors year-round, the dry season provides the most favorable conditions for an immersive experience.

• Admission: Free
• Opening hours: All day
• Address: Phu My Commune, Phu Vang District
• Highlights: Explore the beauty of the craft village, learn how to make conical hats with local artisans.

Mo Waterfall, also known as Nam Dong Mo Waterfall, stands proudly within Hue’s YesHue Eco-ecotourism area, offering visitors a breathtaking view of cascading white waters and four natural pools.

The pristine waters of Mo Waterfall provide the perfect escape for relaxation and team-building activities. Many visitors choose to camp at the waterfall, taking advantage of the provided gear to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains with family and friends.

The best time to visit Mo Waterfall is during the dry season from May to August, making travel easier and offering a refreshing break under the waterfall’s cool waters during the summer heat. However, visiting in other seasons also reveals the diverse beauty of the mountainous forests, providing a unique experience year-round.

• Admission:150,000 VND (~ USD 6.16) per person
• Free for children under 1,3meter tall
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Address: Xuan Phu Hamlet, Huong Phu Commune, Nam Dong District
• Things not to miss: Bathing in the stream, participating in team-building activities, overnight camping, enjoying Hue’s specialty dishes.

Established in 1923, the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum holds the title of the oldest museum in the former imperial capital. Located within Long An Palace, a historic gem built in 1845, the museum serves as the Hue Imperial City Relics Preservation Center. The museum showcases priceless collections that offer a glimpse into the Nguyen dynasty’s aristocracy and ruling class, highlighting their material life, political ceremonies, and ideologies.

The museum also features a Cham antiquities section, displaying remarkable examples of Cham sculptural art that span centuries. This section provides visitors with a deeper understanding of Cham culture and its significant role in the region’s cultural evolution.

Situated within the Hue Imperial City precinct, the museum is easily accessible by motorbike or taxi. Visitors can rent motorcycles in the city center for about USD 4 to USD6 per day. The museum opens daily from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM (7:00 AM during winter), allowing flexibility for those exploring the rich history of Hue.

• Admission: 50,000 VND (~ USD 2.05) per person
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Address: 03 Le Truc, Phu Hau, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue
• Things not to miss: Explore the museum and admire the Hue Royal Antiquities.

The Hue region is home to the expansive Tam Giang Lagoon, a vast wetland covering approximately 52 square kilometers in Thua Thien Hue province. As the largest brackish water lagoon in Southeast Asia, Tam Giang Lagoon stands as a remarkable natural landmark.

Exploring Tam Giang Lagoon doesn’t require an entry fee, but visitors can enjoy additional activities for a fee:

• Renting a motorbike in Hue typically costs between 120,000 – 150,000 VND per day.
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) on Tam Giang Lagoon costs about 100,000 VND per person.
• Boat rentals vary depending on local rates.

Travelers can access Tam Giang Lagoon by taxi, motorbike, or car. For safety, it’s advisable to choose reputable taxi companies.

For a less crowded visit, consider arriving in the afternoon to enjoy the sunset, spending the night, and catching the sunrise over Tam Giang Lagoon the next morning. This stunning view will be a highlight of any Hue visit.

• Admission: Free
• Opening hours: All day
• Address: Spanning the territories of 4 districts: Phong Dien, Quang Dien, Huong Tra, and Phu Vang
• Things not to miss: Witnessing the sunset and sunrise at Tam Giang Lagoon, exploring Chuon Lagoon, visiting Thai Duong Ha fishing village, and the brackish Ru Cha Mangrove Forest.

Thien Mu Pagoda stands as the most prominent temple in Hue city, earning the prestigious title of the “Foremost Ancient Pagoda” in this former imperial region. Its architectural grandeur, spiritual significance, and the rich historical stories surrounding it make it a must-visit destination.

Located just 5 kilometers from Hue’s city center, Thien Mu Pagoda is easy to reach by cyclos, taxis, or scooter rentals. You can explore Thien Mu Pagoda at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit is between January and March, when the weather stays pleasantly cool. This period offers a comfortable atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely exploration of the temple’s stunning surroundings.

• Admission: Free
• Opening hours: All day
• Address: Kim Long Ward, Hue City
• Things not to miss: Learn about the history and stories surrounding Thien Mu Pagoda, and explore the structures inside the pagoda.

Tucked away in a serene valley near Duong Xuan Thuong village, Tu Duc Tomb graces the scenic landscape of Vong Canh Hill, just 6 kilometers from Hue city center. Although the Nguyen Dynasty ruled for 143 years with 13 kings, only 7 royal tombs remain today—Tu Duc Tomb ranks among the four most beautiful, earning recognition as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

As one of Vietnam’s earliest historical sites featured in the Google Arts & Culture 3D digital museum, Tu Duc Tomb showcases rich heritage and striking architecture.

Its five distinct sections highlight the tomb’s unique layout and cultural significance. Khiem Cung Mon marks the elegant entrance, while Luong Khiem Palace reflects royal architectural finesse.

The Minh Khiem Theater celebrates imperial culture, Tinh Khiem Island offers peaceful green surroundings, and the Tomb Area presents intricate designs honoring Emperor Tu Duc’s final resting place.

Travelers can easily reach Tu Duc Tomb by motorbike, bicycle (perfect for scenic exploration), or taxi. Surrounded by lush greenery and nestled in Hue’s romantic countryside, this historic site offers a perfect blend of imperial grandeur and tranquil beauty—an essential stop on any Hue sightseeing itinerary.

• Admission: VND150,000 (~ USD 6.16) per person
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Address: Thuy Ba Hamlet, Thuy Bieu Commune, Thuy Xuan Ward, Hue City
• Things not to miss: Explore the structure and smaller constructions within Tu Duc’s Tomb.

Khai Dinh Tomb in Hue ranks among the most captivating imperial tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty, attracts travelers with its intricate porcelain artistry and fusion of Eastern and Western architecture. Unlike traditional Vietnamese royal tombs, Khai Dinh’s mausoleum reflects a bold, eclectic design that highlights European influence while honoring ancient Vietnamese culture.

Located about 10 kilometers southwest of Hue city center, visitors can easily reach Khai Dinh Tomb by motorbike, taxi, or private car via Highway 49. For budget travelers, local buses running from Southern Hue to Dong Ba Market also stop near the tomb.

The tomb features several must-see check-in spots:

• The Grand Triple Gate – an impressive entry that sets the stage;
• Nghi Mon and Bai Dinh Yard – ideal for photos and cultural immersion;
• Thien Dinh Palace – the crown jewel of the complex, showcasing a dramatic interior with detailed glass and porcelain mosaics, bronze statues, and elaborate murals.

These highlights make Khai Dinh Mausoleum in Hue a top destination for history buffs, culture seekers, and photographers alike.

For the best experience, plan your visit between January and February, when Hue weather is cool and dry—perfect for sightseeing and capturing vivid photos. During special holidays, you may also enjoy free entrance to Khai Dinh Tomb, offering great value for those exploring the top historical attractions in Hue.

• Admission: Adults: 150,000 VND (~ USD 6.16) per person
• Children: 30,000 VND (~ USD 1.23) per child
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Address: Thuy Bang Commune, Huong Thuy District, Hue
• Things not to miss: Explore the architecture of Khai Dinh Tomb, and visit prominent areas within Khai Dinh Tomb

Gia Long Tomb in Hue, also called Thien Tho Tomb, serves as the final resting place of Emperor Gia Long, the founder of the Nguyen Dynasty, and his beloved Queen Thua Thien Cao. This imperial burial site forms part of a broader complex that includes several tombs of royal family members, offering visitors a deep dive into the romantic and historical legacy of Vietnam’s first emperor.

What makes Gia Long’s Mausoleum in Hue stand out is its serene setting amidst a vast pine forest, dotted with 42 picturesque hills. The tomb radiates ancient charm, tranquility, and a deep spiritual ambiance, distinguishing it from other royal tombs in Hue.

To reach Gia Long Tomb, travelers can choose between two scenic routes:

• Option 1: Cross the Ta Trach River using a locally built pontoon bridge;
• Option 2: Drive along the main road via Tuan Bridge, passing Minh Mang Tomb and Huu Trach Bridge along the way.

Inside the complex, you’ll find majestic stone architecture, enamel-brick structures, and a peaceful garden landscape. The tomb’s design incorporates both Vietnamese and Chinese influences, creating a captivating blend of styles. Lush greenery and mature trees support a thriving ecosystem, offering visitors both a historical and natural escape.

Exploring Gia Long Tomb in Hue allows travelers to reconnect with Vietnam’s royal past while enjoying birdwatching, photography, and serene walks.

For the best experience, visit during the dry season. Avoid the rainy months from September to November, as heavy monsoon downpours can hinder travel and sightseeing.

• Admission: Adults: 150,000 VND (~ USD 6.16) per person
• Children: Free
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Address: Dinh Mon Hamlet, Huong Tho Commune, Hue City
• Things not to miss: Explore the tomb’s architecture, discover the story of King Gia Long and the Empress, and visit prominent areas within Khai Dinh Tomb