Hey Leosquad! If you think Huế is just about royal tombs and ancient palaces — think again! Huế is where the city’s real charm shines. From riverside jogs to local street food and peaceful pagodas, there’s a little something for every kind of traveler. Here are 7 fun things to do in Hue that’ll make you fall in love with this charming Vietnamese city. 🇻🇳
🎥 Watch my short video and discover 7 Fun Things to Do in Hue!
1. Jog Along the Perfume River
There’s no better way to start your morning in Huế than jogging along the Perfume River (Hương River). The breeze is cool, the air smells fresh, and the locals are out doing their morning stretches or chatting on benches. It’s a simple but peaceful way to feel connected to the rhythm of local life.
2. Explore Dong Ba Market: The Beating Heart of Hue
Source: VietJet Air
Welcome to Đông Ba Market, the biggest and busiest market in Huế! This place is an explosion of colors, sounds, and smells. You’ll find everything — from fresh produce and dried seafood to handmade conical hats and áo dài fabrics. Don’t forget to bargain a little — it’s part of the fun! 😄
Explore Đông Ba Market
🕣Opening Hours: 07:00 am – 07:00 pm
💡 Tips: The best time to visit Hue Dong Ba Market is in the morning, between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Visiting in the morning also allows you to avoid the midday heat.
3. Visit Thien Mu Pagoda: The Symbol of Hue
Perched gracefully by the river, Thiên Mụ Pagoda is one of Huế’s most iconic landmarks. Its seven-tiered pagoda tower watches over the city like a guardian. Whether you come for the peaceful vibe, the river views, or the history, it’s definitely a must-visit spot in downtown Huế.
Thiên Mụ Pagoda Visit
💰Cost: Free
🕣Opening Hours: 08:00 am – 06:00 pm
💡 Tips: To get the most out of your visit, try to go during less crowded times. Remember to check the dress code for temples and pagodas in Vietnam, which generally requires covering shoulders and knees when entering worship areas.
⌛ The best time to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the most serene experience.
4. Try Kayaking or Enjoy Tofu Pudding by the River
Here’s where you can really live like a local. Rent a kayak and paddle gently along the Perfume River, or take it easy and savor a bowl of tofu pudding (tàu hủ nóng) from a street vendor by the riverbank. It’s a sweet, silky dessert that melts in your mouth — perfect after a hot day!
Kayaking
💰Cost: 150K VND (6 USD)
🕣Opening Hours: 05:00 am – 07:30 pm
Tofu Pudding
💰Cost: 10K VND (0,5 USD)
🕣 Open at 8:30AM & Close at 06:00 PM
5. Take a Boat Ride on the Perfume River
A boat ride on the Perfume River is one of those Hue experiences you’ll never forget. I took mine at night — the lights reflected on the water, and the city felt calm and almost magical. Some boats even have live music or floating lanterns, making it a dreamy way to end your day.
Hương River Boat Ride
💰Cost: 100K VND (4 USD)
🕣 Open at 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
6. Dress Up in a Vietnamese Traditional Costume
Want to feel like royalty? Rent an áo dài, Vietnam’s traditional costume, and explore the city in style! The best spot for photos? Definitely Hue Imperial City, where the grand gates and golden halls make every picture look straight out of a history book.
Rent an áo dài
📍 Location: Bo Ho Hue, áo dài Shop
💰 Cost: 150K VND (6 USD)/ Day
🕣 Open at 07:00 AM & Close at 10:00 PM
7. Taste the Legendary Bún Bò Huế
You can’t say you’ve been to Hue without tasting Bún Bò Huế, the city’s signature noodle soup. It’s spicy, savory, and rich — made with beef, pork knuckle, and thick rice noodles. Locals usually enjoy it for breakfast, but trust me, it’s delicious any time of the day.
Eating Bún Bò Huế
📍 Location: Madam Thu Restaurant
💰 Cost: 50K VND (2 USD)
🕣 Open at 10:00 AM & Close at 10:30 PM
💭 Final Thoughts
Hue might be known for its imperial past, but downtown Hue has its own unique charm — alive, flavorful, and full of local energy. From markets and temples to tofu pudding by the river, there’s always something that captures your heart.
✨ Planning your trip soon? Don’t miss these 7 things to do in downtown Hue, Vietnam — and experience the city like a local.
That’s it for this blog post! If you found this helpful, give it a thumbs up! See you in the next post! Love you all! Thank you!
Travel Deeper, Eat Bolder, Live the Moments, and Follow the Trails.✈️🍜🔥🌏
Bye Bye!
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🎥 Watch the Full Video Here
🏨 Where to Stay in Hue?
Source: Trip.com
Where I stayed: Saigon Morin Hotel
Staying in Saigon Morin Hotel offers the perfect blend of royal history and riverside serenity. I recommend booking accommodations near the Perfume River. From elegant boutique hotels to cozy stays close to the Imperial City, each option reflects the city’s timeless charm. Whether you’re exploring ancient tombs, savoring Hue’s famous cuisine, or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance, a stay in Saigon Morin Hotel promises a graceful retreat into Vietnam’s imperial past.
