
Hue's tombs, historical relics, temples, and pagodas have long been famous tourist attractions, but that's not all. Hue also boasts a list of "must-visit" locations that few people think of. From famous landmarks to historical sites, promise yourself you'll discover all the beauty of this ancient capital with these 35+ Hue tourist destinations!
The complex of Nguyen Dynasty royal tombs is considered one of the most famous tourist attractions in Hue that you must check in at as soon as you set foot in this land; because these tombs are not only famous landmarks, but also historical and cultural landmarks and a source of pride for the people of Hue. Most of the tombs are located in the southwest of Hue city.
Also known as Thien Thu Mausoleum, it was built from 1814 to 1820 under the direct supervision of King Gia Long. The mausoleum sits on a flat hill, surrounded by 34 mountains. It can be said that Gia Long Mausoleum is a beautiful masterpiece of the harmonious blend of nature and architecture, reflecting the grandeur and nobility of the king who headed the Nguyen dynasty.

Gia Long Mausoleum viewed from above @Traveloka

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Huong Tho Commune
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Also known as Hieu Lang, located on Cam Ke Mountain about 15 km from the center of Hue city, Minh Mang Mausoleum is a collection of unique architectural works with more than 40 structures including palaces, castles, and pavilions. In addition, the mausoleum is a treasure trove with nearly 600 carved inscriptions of poems on the Bi Dinh Pavilion, Hien Duc Gate, Sung An Palace, and Minh Lau. Minh Mang Mausoleum reflects the solemnity and balance of a social institution, befitting a king with exceptional strategic skills in many fields.

Minh Mang Mausoleum viewed from above. @shutterstock

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Huong Tho Commune
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Also known as Khiem Lang, it is one of the beautiful architectural works of the Nguyen Dynasty, located about 5 km from the center of Hue city. Tu Duc Mausoleum has nearly 50 architectural structures with the word "Khiem" in their names. It also houses the Minh Khiem Theater, where the king watched performances, considered the oldest theater in Vietnam still in its preservation.

Panoramic view of the Tomb of Emperor Tự Đức. @shutterstock

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Thuy Xuan
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You can check out some other hotels near the Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc on Traveloka!
This is the result of the integration of many Asian and European architectural styles. The mausoleum is the pinnacle of ceramic and glass mosaic art. Khai Dinh Mausoleum is also considered one of Hue's most popular tourist attractions due to its exquisite structure and high artistic value.

Khai Dinh Mausoleum viewed from above. @shutterstock

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Thuy Bang
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Additionally, if you have time, you can also visit other tombs of Nguyen emperors in Hue such as: Thieu Tri tomb, Duc Duc tomb, Dong Khanh tomb…
Check out some hotels near Khai Dinh Mausoleum on Traveloka!
The Imperial Citadel is the common name for the complex of buildings including the Royal Citadel and the Forbidden City, built in 1804. The Imperial Citadel comprises over 140 large and small structures serving the central government, with an equally impressive system of city gates. The entire Imperial Citadel spans a nearly square plot of land, each side measuring up to 2500 meters. Here are some "must-see" buildings and locations when you visit the Imperial Citadel:
Built in 1833 during the reign of Emperor Minh Mạng, the Ngo Mon Gate was the site of important ceremonies of the Nguyen Dynasty. It possesses both a majestic and imposing appearance, yet is also steeped in the mossy patina of time.

The main entrance to Ngo Mon Gate, Hue. @Google Maps
This is the most important structure in the Imperial Citadel area. Built in 1805, the Thai Hoa Palace was the venue for grand ceremonies of 13 emperors, from Gia Long to Bao Dai. The Thai Hoa Palace has a large courtyard in front, and inside is a throne used by the emperor during court sessions and ceremonies. With its large size and rich cultural and architectural value, the Thai Hoa Palace is a must-see when visiting the Imperial Citadel.

Discover the Thai Hoa Palace - a fascinating tourist destination in the ancient capital of Hue. @VnExpress
Thai Mieu (a temple dedicated to the Nguyen lords, built in 1802), Hung Mieu (a temple dedicated to Mr. Nguyen Phuc Luan, father of Emperor Gia Long), The Mieu (a temple dedicated to the Nguyen lords, built in 1821), Trieu Mieu (a temple dedicated to Nguyen Kim, father of Lord Tien Nguyen Hoang).
As one of the five imperial gardens located within the Imperial Citadel, it served as a place for the princes to study and play, boasting a large area and a harmonious, beautiful layout.

Co Ha Garden, Hue @Google Maps
Some other places within the Imperial Citadel you should visit include: the Nine Dynastic Urns, the Forbidden City, the Duyet Thi Duong Theater, the Thai Binh Pavilion, the Dien Tho Palace, the Tu Phuong Vo Su Pavilion… Since 1993, the Hue Imperial Citadel Complex has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can buy tickets to visit the Hue Imperial Citadel Complex on Traveloka.
You can check out some hotels near Hue Imperial City on Traveloka!
The Perfume River is not only an important river in Hue but also a captivating tourist destination. You can stroll along its banks, admire the Trang Tien Bridge, release lanterns for good luck, or choose a boat trip on the Perfume River to enjoy the beauty of the ancient capital from a different perspective. Especially, don't forget to experience Hue folk singing and dinner on the Perfume River in the evening to fully appreciate the romantic and poetic charm of this land.

The Perfume River in Hue, viewed from Thien Mu Pagoda @shutterstock
You can experience some unique cultural aspects of Hue that can only be found at the Perfume River, such as:
You can check out some hotels near the Perfume River on Traveloka!
1. Address: Cu Du, Phu Loc, Thua Thien Hue Province
Which tourist destination in Hue is best for golf enthusiasts? Located approximately 60km from the center of Hue city, Laguna Lang Co Golf Course is an 18-hole international standard golf course designed by Nick Faldo. With its stunning natural scenery, this golf course promises to offer exciting experiences for golfers.

Laguna Lăng Cô Golf Course viewed from above @Traveloka
Hue City
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Songlab Digital Art Center is a unique new tourist destination in Hue, where technology and art intersect. Here, you can experience unique digital art pieces, interact with virtual spaces, and discover the latest applications of technology in art.

Songlab Digital Art Center @Traveloka
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Phu Hoi
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Located about 5km from the center of Hue city, Thien An Monastery is an ideal Hue tourist destination for those seeking peace and tranquility. With its unique Gothic architecture and spacious grounds featuring beautiful gardens, Thien An Monastery offers a serene space, allowing you to temporarily escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Inside Thien An Monastery @Google Maps
Thuy Tien Lake is a tourist destination in Hue with a mysterious and enchanting beauty. This abandoned amusement park gives visitors the feeling of being transported to another world, with unique architectural structures covered in moss and mysterious stories.

A common photo spot at Thuy Tien Lake @Google Maps
You can visit all three locations in one day with the tour below:

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Phu Hoi
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Lang Co Bay is a famous tourist destination in Hue, known for its pristine beauty, fine white sand beaches, and clear blue waters. It's ideal for relaxation, swimming, snorkeling to admire coral reefs, and enjoying fresh seafood.
You can check out some hotels near Lang Co on Traveloka!

Panoramic view of Lang Co @tapchicongthuong.vn
Hue City
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Want to learn about a unique aspect of ancient Hue culture? Which Hue tourist destination will transport you back in time? The Tiger Arena is a fascinating historical site, where tiger and elephant fights once took place during the Nguyen Dynasty. Today, although the dramatic fights are no longer held, the arena retains its unique architecture and remains a popular tourist attraction.

Tiger Arena - the arena where fights between tigers and elephants are held. @Traveloka Go & Share
Thuy Xuan
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Are you an art lover? Then come to Lebadang Memory Space Art Museum , showcasing the works of artist Lebadang, one of the leading figures in Vietnamese painting. The modern exhibition space and unique artworks will provide you with a delightful experience.

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