Hue

Hue was once the national capital and is today one of Vietnam’s most important historical attractions. The charm of this timeless city lies not only in its historical and architectural value, but also the natural beauty of its location on the banks of the Perfume River. Hue is 2 hours by car from Danang.

Train to Hue

Time needed: Half day

Hue city, the ancient capital of Vietnam, is 62 miles (110km) north of Danang. It is accessible by air, bus and car. However, by far the best way to get to Hue is to take the train. The train journey to Hue is one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world and is often overlooked by visitors to Vietnam.

There are several trains daily between Danang and Hue and the journey will take around 3 hours. Tickets are purchased from Danang train station, which is located at 202 Hai Phong street (Tel: 0511 375 2333).

Tickets generally cost around 45,000VND for a seat and 75,000VND for a sleeper if purchased directly from the train station. Sleepers are located four beds to an air-conditioned cabin. Try not to get stuck with a smoker, and for the three hour journey beds aren’t really necessary unless seats are sold out.

If you purchase through a travel agent or have your hotel organize it for you, the costs are likely to be higher than stated above. Tickets are only available to purchase on the day of travel or the day before. Journeys between Danang and Hue are popular so book as early as possible, to ensure you reserve your seat.

The journey itself is spectacular with steep climbs through lush green hills. The most scenic section of train line runs along the coast past bays and islands and through the hills. There are spectacular glimpses of the isolated beaches on one side with lush jungle and waterfalls on the other. The train travels at slow speeds up the steep gradients, so there are plenty of chances to take photos of the dramatic landscape.

If it’s at all possible try not to travel on a rainy day as your views of the spectacular scenery will be somewhat obscured by rainy windows.

How to get there: Head to Danang train station, located on Hai Phong street and purchase a ticket to Hue, either the day before or on the day of travel. Then just, sit back and enjoy the ride.

Hue City Tour

Time Needed: 1 – 2 days

Hue has a number of beautiful and internationally famous sites worth checking out. The old capital of Vietnam until World War 2, Hue city has many different historical attraction. Below is a list of the recommended sites if you have only 1 or 2 days in town.

The imperial city and citadel is the most well-known historical attraction in Hue and no visitor can afford to miss it. The foreground features the largest flagpole in Vietnam.

The Imperial City was home to 13 emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty. The Royal Citadel, constructed in 1805, is equaled only by the spectacular Forbidden City in Beijing.

Another two of the most popular attractions in Hue are the Thien Mu pagoda and the Tu Duc Tombs. Both are accessible by road, however we recommend combining these attractions with a river cruise along the perfume river. These tours are easily organized by your hotel, or better yet, enjoy bargaining with the local operators to get an even better price.

Boats are docked along the edge of the river near the park on the corner of Le Loi street and Huong Vuong street. You can hire the boats all day, half day, or just for a few hours. If you intend to take in the Thien Mu pagoda and the Tu Duc Tombs, then we think half a day is enough time. Boats will also cater for you, preparing lunch or dinner for you on board the boat. You can negotiate this to be included in the price, drinks usually are not included.

The Thien Mu pagoda, was a spiritual place once inhabited by monks. Built in 1601, the pagoda is set in a beautiful spot between a river and a pine forest. Thien Mu meaning heavenly lady, is one of the oldest and most beautiful religious buildings in Vietnam. The pagoda consists of seven successive tiers, each of which is dedicated to a human form taken by Buddha or a step to enlightenment.

Do not get ‘tombed out’ by visiting several of the tombs on offer around Hue. The best one to visit is the Tomb of Tu Duc. Entry is 60,000VND and gates open at 8.30am. Set in expansive grounds, no matter how many tourists the tombs still feel calm and serene. However we recommend trying to enter as soon as the gates open to avoid the heat and the crowds.

How to get there: The tombs and the pagoda are best accessed by river. You can hire a private car and driver to take you to the sights, but why not cruise the famous Perfume River on a boat. Take a taxi or walk across the river to the Imperial city and citadel.