Hue Imperial City
★ 4.7🇻🇳 HueSuggested visit 1 dayBest season February to April, dry and clear
World HeritageHistoric siteCitadel
The Nguyen dynasty capital, its moated citadel and royal tombs spread along the Perfume River.
Overview
Hue was the capital of the Nguyen dynasty from 1802 to 1945. The citadel on the north bank of the Perfume River is ringed by three walls and a moat, enclosing the Purple Forbidden City with the Thai Hoa palace, the Meridian Gate and the nine dynastic urns. It joined the World Heritage List in 1993. Downstream lie the tombs of Tu Duc, Minh Mang and Khai Dinh, the last blending Vietnamese and European styles in lavish detail.
History
Made the capital when the Nguyen dynasty was founded in 1802, with the citadel built from 1804; the dynasty ended in 1945, parts were damaged in war, and the site was inscribed in 1993.
Highlights
- •The Meridian Gate and Thai Hoa palace
- •The Forbidden City and the nine urns
- •The tombs of Khai Dinh and Tu Duc
- •Boats on the Perfume River
Practical tips
- •The citadel is large — allow half a day or more
- •The rainy season brings flooding; wear waterproof shoes
Practical information
- Best time
- February-April
- Tickets
- Citadel about VND 200,000; tombs about VND 150,000 each
- Opening hours
- 7:00-17:30
- Local food
- Bun bo Hue, royal cuisine, sesame candy
- Getting around
- About three hours by train from Da Nang, or 2.5 hours by bus.
- Visa
- A visa is required and an e-visa is available.
Traveller reviews
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