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The opulence of royalty, historical relics, and picturesque landscapes create the setting for an emotionally rich retreat. A 3-day journey in Huế will reveal prominent landmarks along with some lesser-known neighboring areas!
Discover the Cultural Marvels in 3 Days in Huế
Day 1 – Street Scenes, Imperial City, and Royal Tombs
Morning: Start your 3-day adventure in Huế early to explore the pristine Imperial City. Use a bicycle or cyclo to navigate the charming streets.
Interesting stops could include Nguyễn Văn Trỗi Park and Hiển Nhơn Gate, the tranquil Tịnh Tâm Lake, the twin Tấn Miếu and Võ Sanh Lakes, where pink lotuses bloom from April to July.
Conclude your city exploration in Huế at the entrance, an area adorned with grand walls, tree-lined avenues, parks, and canals spanned by ancient bridges.
Explore royal courtrooms, administrative buildings, and UNESCO-ranked religious architectural structures.
Afternoon: Indulge in Huế's renowned vegetarian dishes at the humble Ngự Hà Garden, or for a more upscale experience, try Les Jardins de la Carambole.
Evening: After a rest, marvel at the legendary tombs of Huế. Reach the tombs by boat, car, motorbike, or even bicycle. All seven royal tombs have their own unique charm.
Instead of attempting to see them all, choose two or three most captivating tombs. Emperor Gia Long's tomb, the oldest and least visited, contrasts with the more frequented tombs of Minh Mạng, Tự Đức, and Khải Định.
Day 2 – Temples, Palaces, and Gardens
Morning: After breakfast, explore Báo Quốc Pagoda. This 17th-century temple has undergone changes over time but remains a revered ancient worship site.
After your temple visit, stroll down the tree-lined canal to Bến Ngự Market, visit Phủ Cam Church, or pause for morning coffee at Nghĩa Coffee Shop.
Then, spend the remaining part of the morning at An Định Palace, a beautifully royal residence built in the late Nguyen Dynasty. If you don't have a guide, you can hire one on Nguyễn Huệ Street.
Afternoon: After a relaxing lunch break, it's time to explore Kim Long, a garden area north of the Perfume River. It's best explored on foot, by bicycle, or cyclo, as this is a great opportunity to enjoy Huế's often serene and tranquil atmosphere.
Allow yourself to wander through winding rural roads and garden houses, all well-marked. Before sunset, visit the serene Thiên Mụ Pagoda. Late afternoon is the best time to visit as it's less crowded, and you can watch the sunset behind the mountains, painting the sky in shades of pink and purple.
Day 3 – Huế Beach, Hến Island, and Chinatown
Morning: Make the most of your final day in the 3-day Hue itinerary by waking up early and heading to Thuan An Beach. Easily accessible by taxi or motorbike from the city, the route passes two old bridges and offers views of the Pha Tam Giang landscape. At the beach, witness lively activities: families, elders, and students swimming in the early morning.
Afternoon: Explore another intriguing corner of Hue: Hen Island and the Chinatown area. Just cross the Ung Binh Bridge, and you'll find yourself on Hen Island, this rural corner of the city disappears entirely during floods.
The small island takes less than half an hour to explore. If hungry, stop at one of the clam or mussel rice eateries. If interested, cross the river and explore Chi Lang and Bach Dang streets, visit Chinese and Vietnamese shops, beautiful French buildings, and impressive temples, such as Phuc Kien Temple or Dieu De Pagoda.
This is a great neighborhood for some delicious afternoon treats. Enjoy the distinctive Hue beef noodle soup at Ba Phung, or savor grilled pork rolled in rice paper with sesame dipping sauce and sweet peanuts at Ba Ty. For the oldest café experience in Hue, visit Da Thao.
To conclude your 3 days in Hue, head to the Imperial City and walk towards the front gate. In the late afternoon, the spacious area is filled with children flying kites and teenagers skateboarding. As the sun sets, lights illuminate around Ngo Mon Gate, casting a glow on the entrance to the ancient Nguyen dynasty home.
By Mytour
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Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour
MytourSeptember 23, 2022
