When it comes to exciting things to do in Hue, Vietnam, there are numerous activities one can try. Whether you want to feel the adrenaline rush or just admire the marvellous architecture of the city, it has everything to offer everyone, which must be included in your Vietnam tour.
If you are a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for fun things to do in Hue, then you can explore the Tomb of Minh Mang or watch the Hue Ao Dai Show. For all the foodies out there, the best things to do in Hue, Vietnam, include tasting local dishes like Bun Bo Hue, exploring hidden pagodas, and catching a sunset at Thien Mu Pagoda.
In this WanderOn blog, we will discuss each and every activity that you must try. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!
One of the top things to do in Hue is to visit the Imperial City, a massive complex of palaces, temples, and walls. This ancient citadel reflects the glory of the Nguyen Dynasty, exploring it is one of the must things to do in Hue for history lovers.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Entrance Fee: 200,000 VND
- Best Time to Visit: Morning, for cooler weather and fewer tourists
- How to Get There: Short walk or taxi from Hue city center
- Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours
Also Read: Mountains of Vietnam: Top 10 Best Mountains for Nature Lover
2. Take a Peaceful Dragon Boat Ride on the Perfume River
A fun thing to do in Hue is cruising along the Perfume River in a traditional dragon boat. You'll pass beautiful scenery and reach historical sites like Thien Mu Pagoda. It’s a peaceful way to explore sights and activities in Hue.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Fee: Around 150,000–200,000 VND per ride
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for cooler weather and soft light
- How to Get There: Boats depart from Toa Kham Wharf
- Estimated Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours
3. Visit the Tranquil Thien Mu Pagoda
Visiting Thien Mu Pagoda is one of the most peaceful things to do in Hue, Vietnam. This iconic seven-story pagoda sits on a hill overlooking the Perfume River and offers a quiet escape with spiritual and historical significance.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Morning for serenity and soft lighting
- How to Get There: Reachable by boat or taxi from the city center
- Estimated Time Needed: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Also Read: Dau Be Island Vietnam: A Complete Travel Guide For Visitors
4. Explore the Royal Tomb of Khai Dinh
Exploring Khai Dinh’s Tomb is among the best things to do in Hue, Vietnam. This royal tomb blends Vietnamese and European architecture and is known for its striking black exterior and detailed mosaic interiors.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Entrance Fee: 150,000 VND
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid heat and crowds
- How to Get There: 20-minute taxi ride from the Hue centre
- Estimated Time Needed: 1 hour
For a unique cultural activity, try a traditional herbal foot bath – a local wellness ritual using Vietnamese herbs. It’s soothing after a day of sightseeing and one of the best outdoor activities in Hue to unwind and recharge.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: 100,000–150,000 VND
- Best Time to Visit: Evening, after a long day
- How to Get There: Available in many spas around central Hue
- Estimated Time Needed: 30–60 minutes
Also Read: Exploring Mo Luong Cave in Vietnam
6. Join a Traditional Vietnamese Painting Workshop
Looking for unique things to do in Hue, Vietnam? Try a hands-on traditional painting class. Learn to paint lotus flowers, temples, or local landscapes from skilled artists. It’s a creative way to connect with Hue’s heritage and bring home a personal souvenir.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: 200,000–300,000 VND
- Best Time to Visit: Morning sessions for better focus
- How to Get There: Art studios available near Le Loi Street
- Estimated Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours
7. Stroll Around Dong Ba Market
Visiting Dong Ba Market is among the most fun things to do in Hue. The market buzzes with locals and colour, perfect for trying street snacks, buying souvenirs, or just people-watching. Try some bun bo Hue!
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Morning for fresh produce and fewer crowds
- How to Get There: Easily walkable from the Perfume River area
- Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours
Also Read : Top 6 Hill Tribe Markets in Vietnam
8. Kayak on the Perfume River
If you're after peaceful outdoor activities in Hue, rent a kayak and paddle down the Perfume River, especially near sunset for golden reflections. Paddle past ancient pagodas and local fishermen casting nets. It’s one of the most peaceful outdoor activities in Hue, which is ideal for nature lovers wanting a slower, immersive way to see the city from a different angle.
- Opening Hours: Daylight hours (7:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
- Entrance Fee: Kayak rental ~100,000–150,000 VND/hour
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or just before sunset
- How to Get There: Rentals are available near Toa Kham Boat Station
- Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours
9. Relax at Thuy Tien Lake
One of the must do things in Hue for nature lovers is visiting Thuy Tien Lake, which used to be a waterpark. Nature is slowly reclaiming the dragon-shaped structures. It’s a cool escape from the crowds and perfect for photography fans. One of those fun things to do in Hue you won’t find in every guide.
- Opening Hours: Open all day
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
- How to Get There: 20-minute motorbike or taxi ride from the city centre
- Estimated Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours
Also Read: Ba Be National Park
10. Unwind with a Traditional Vietnamese Spa
After a day of exploring, treat yourself to a herbal hot stone massage or bamboo therapy at a local spa. Vietnamese wellness rituals blend deep relaxation and cultural healing. This is a must for those seeking both comfort and cultural touch, definitely one of the more soothing Hue things to do for tired feet.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (varies by spa)
- Entrance Fee: ~200,000–400,000 VND/session
- Best Time to Visit: Evening, after a long day
- How to Get There: Plenty of options around Le Loi Street and the city centre
- Estimated Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours
11. Visit the Le Ba Dang Art Museum
Art lovers, don’t miss this cultural gem! Exploring the Le Ba Dang Art Museum is one of the most enriching Hue things to do as he was a Vietnamese-French painter with a style mixing East and West. The museum is set in a quiet French colonial building, offering a thoughtful break from the outdoor heat. Art fans will love this blend of modern vision and national history, among the sights and activities in Hue.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: ~20,000 VND
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning for quiet viewing
- How to Get There: Located at 15 Le Loi Street; walkable from the city centre
- Estimated Time Needed: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Suggested Read: Dien Bien Phu, Vietnam: Places, Things To Do & More
12. Take a Walking Tour of Colonial-Era Buildings
One of the most unique things to do in Hue, Vietnam, is wandering through its French colonial streets. From ancient villas to grand government halls, this self-guided tour offers a peek into the city’s elegant past. Each corner reveals crumbling French balconies or mustard-yellow façades. A guided walking tour helps reveal hidden architectural gems and historical footnotes, perfect for history buffs seeking the best things to do in Hue, Vietnam, with a European twist.
- Opening Hours: Open all day (best during daylight)
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or early evening
- How to Get There: Start near Le Loi Street and follow the Perfume River
- Estimated Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours
13. Chill at a Riverside Café with Local Brew
Sipping Vietnamese coffee at a riverside café is one of the best free things to do in Hue, Vietnam. Try the local egg coffee or coconut milk brew while watching dragon boats drift by on the Perfume River. It’s a great way to enjoy Hue’s vibe and scenery without a schedule, an ideal answer if you're wondering what are some free things to do in Hue, Vietnam.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (varies by café)
- Entrance Fee: Just your coffee (~30,000–60,000 VND)
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for golden hour views
- How to Get There: Cafés line both sides of the Perfume River
- Estimated Time Needed: 45 minutes – 1 hour
14. Explore the Ruins of the Ho Quyen Tiger Arena
For offbeat explorers, visiting the Ho Quyen Arena is one of the most must do things in Hue. Once a royal coliseum where tigers and elephants battled for sport, its crumbling stands whisper tales of imperial spectacle. A true hidden gem among historical sites in Vietnam that many travellers still overlook.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Morning (to avoid heat)
- How to Get There: 4 km southwest of the Citadel; taxi or motorbike recommended
- Estimated Time Needed: 30–45 minutes
15. Experience Sunset from Vong Canh Hill
For photographers and nature lovers, catching sunset at Vong Canh Hill is one of the most fun things to do in Hue. The views are peaceful and picturesque, overlooking the Perfume River and lush countryside. You can pack light snacks, and don’t forget your camera. Among the top must do things in Hue, especially for romantic or quiet evenings.
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset (5:00–6:30 PM)
- How to Get There: ~7 km from city centre; motorbike or Grab
- Estimated Time Needed: 1 hour
16. Take a Hue Street Food Tasting Tour
Foodies, rejoice! Sampling local dishes like Bun Bo Hue and Banh Beo is a top pick among things to do in Hue at night. Join a guided food tour or DIY your own through Dong Ba Market and nearby alleys. As you walk the backstreets and night markets, you’ll learn about regional ingredients and cooking stories. A delicious and immersive pick for things to do in Hue, Vietnam that satisfies every sense.
- Opening Hours: Tours typically run 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: ~300,000–600,000 VND (for guided tour)
- Best Time to Visit: Evening
- How to Get There: Most tours start near the city centre
- Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours
A unique cultural experience, attending a Royal Court Music show is among the most sights and activities in Hue that showcase its imperial charm. The UNESCO-recognised art is deeply tied to Vietnam’s dynastic past. It blends traditional instruments, poetry, and elaborate costumes. One of the most elegant cultural experiences and the best time to visit Hue attractions.
- Opening Hours: Shows usually at 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: ~100,000 VND per person
- Best Time to Visit: Evening
- How to Get There: Most performances are inside the Citadel or at the Duyet Thi Duong theatre
18. Chill at a Rooftop Bar in the City Centre
To get the real experience of Vietnamese nightlife, don’t miss rooftop bars like Imperial Hotel’s Sky Bar. They offer panoramic views, and a laid-back vibe creates the perfect ambience for you to relish nightlife in Hue. Soft jazz, cool breezes, and lantern-lit skies make it a perfect choice for things to do in Hue at night with a relaxed vibe.
- Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – Midnight
- Entrance Fee: Free (just pay for drinks)
- Best Time to Visit: After sunset
- How to Get There: Located in downtown Hue near major hotels
- Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours
19. Take a Countryside Bicycle Tour Around Hue
One of the best fun things to do in Hue is cycling through its peaceful countryside. Pedal past rice paddies, water buffaloes, and sleepy villages just outside the city. A Vietnam cycling tour lets you explore traditional life at your own pace. Stop at hidden temples or chat with friendly locals. Easily one of the best things to do in Hue, Vietnam, for a slow, scenic adventure and fresh air.
- Opening Hours: Morning tours start from 7:30 AM
- Entrance Fee: ~200,000–300,000 VND (bike + guide)
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
- How to Get There: Tours depart from central Hue or can be self-guided
- Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours
20. Day Trip to Thuan An Beach
Just 15 km from Hue, Thuan An Beach offers a peaceful getaway with golden sand, gentle waves, and seafood shacks. It’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon swim or a breezy sunset walk. One of the lesser-known beaches in Vietnam that still feels like a hidden slice of coastal charm.
- Opening Hours: Open all day
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: April–August (for good weather)
- How to Get There: ~15 km from Hue, reachable by motorbike or taxi
- Estimated Time Needed: Half day
