Hue Imperial City Walking Tour: Citadel & Forbidden City

Hue
3 hours

Learn more about Hue’s grand history on a walking tour inside the UNESCO-listed Imperial City. You won’t struggle to keep up with or to hear your guide as this is an intimate small-group tour. Better understand the beautiful architecture that you see within the walled city, and hear stories from Hue’s past that bring depth and meaning to the old buildings. Upgrade options are a family-friendly tour, private tours, a sunrise or sunset tour, or a meal.

Highlights

  • A must-do tour for travelers interested in culture and history
  • Learn more than you would touring independently
  • Receive personalized attention on a small-group tour
  • Entry fees cost extra and are not included

 

Full Description

1. The Noon Gate (Cua Ngo Mon)
 
Meet your tour guide at the meeting point, Walk to Ngo Mon gate to discover the symbolic significance of Ngo Mon—the grand gateway used for royal ceremonies and major events during the Nguyen Dynasty.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

 
2. Thai Hoa Palace
 
Step inside the most important hall of the Imperial City, where emperors held grand court sessions and coronations. Admire its elegant architecture and learn about royal rituals.

25 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

 
3. Hien Lam Pavilion
 
Marvel at this over-200-year-old pavilion, built to honor the Nguyen emperors. Your guide reveals stories of its cultural significance and surviving original design.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

 
4. Nine Dynastic Urns
 
See the impressive bronze urns symbolizing the power and legacy of the Nguyen Dynasty’s nine emperors. Hear the meaning behind the urns.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

 
5. The Mieu Temple
 
Visit the ancestral temple dedicated to past Nguyen kings. Discover how royal traditions are preserved in this sacred space.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

 
6. Cửa Chương Đức
 
Chuong Duc Gate is one of the 4 gates of the Imperial City, exclusively for women

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

 
7. Hue Royal Palace
 
The Forbidden Purple City is the name of the third enclosure within the Hue Imperial City, exclusively for the king's family, including his wives and children. Inside the Forbidden Purple City, there are many structures with different functions. 

20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

 
8. Kiến Trung Palace
 
Tour the newly restored Kien Trung Palace, recently reopened after years of careful reconstruction. Experience the grandeur of imperial residence.

20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

 
9. Thai Binh Pavilion
 
Thai Binh Lau (Peaceful Palace) was where the king would read books and enjoy the scenery. It is an extremely beautiful structure.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

 
10. Thiệu Phương Garden
 
Thieu Phuong Garden, also known as the Royal Garden, has been restored with extremely eye-catching scenery. It was a place for the king and his family to stroll and enjoy the scenery.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

 
11. Cửa Hiển Nhơn
 
Conclude your walking tour at Hien Nhon Gate, the entrance used by mandarins, offering a final look at the world of Vietnam’s last royal dynasty.

 

Why book with us

Authentic Local Experiences: Explore Vietnam like a local with unique experiences, hidden gems, local food, and real cultural connections.

Friendly Local Guides: Our experienced local guides are passionate about sharing the culture, history, and daily life of Vietnam.

Small Group Tours: Enjoy more personal, comfortable, and flexible experiences with small group sizes.

Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees. What you see is what you pay.

Safe & Comfortable: Your safety and comfort are our priorities throughout every journey.

Easy & Flexible Booking: Simple booking process with quick support and flexible arrangements.

Trusted by Travelers: Thousands of happy travelers have enjoyed unforgettable local experiences with us. 

 

Includes

Imperial City entrance ticket (Applied for Private tour option only)

Imperial City entrance fee: 200,000 VND/person (Applied for Group tour Option)

₫200,000.00 per person

Meals

Meals not mention in the option

Tips for guide (optional)

Important Notes

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking

  • Wheelchair accessible

  • Stroller accessible

  • Near public transportation

  • Infants must sit on laps

  • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions

  • Most travelers can participate

  • We do not include entry fee as you may want to buy COMBO TICKET with better value for Citadel and Tombs.

  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 8 travelers

 

FAQs

How can I book a tour?

You can book directly on our website in just a few simple steps.

Do you offer hotel​ pickup?

Yes, most tours include free pickup and drop-off in central areas.

Are your tours​ suitable for solo travelers?

Absolutely! Solo travelers are always welcome.

What paym​ent methods do you accept?

We accept credit cards, bank transfers, and online payments.

Can I customize a private t​our?

Yes, we can create personalized tours based on your interests and schedule.

What happen​s if it rains?

Most tours still operate in light rain. In severe weather, we will help reschedule if needed.

Is food included in​ the tours?

It depends on the tour package. Please check the tour details for full information.

Are your guid​es fluent in English?

Yes, our guides speak English and are experienced with international travelers.

Can children jo​in the tours?

Yes, many of our tours are family-friendly.

Why book di​rectly with a local company?

Booking directly gives you better prices, authentic experiences, and direct local support.

 

From $26 USD / person
Lowest Price Guarantee

Adults (age 12+)
1
Children (age 2-11)
0
8:30 AM
11:30 AM
2:30 PM
Unit: USD
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
Reserve Now and Pay Later – Secure your spot while staying flexible
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation
September 22
100% refund
September 23
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Reserve Now & Pay Later

We'll reserve your spot today, and you can cancel up to two days* before your experience without making a payment. Secure your spot with ease, stay flexible, and never miss out.

How it works

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    Reserve now and pay later to secure your spot, commitment-free.
  3. Choose when to pay
    Come back to pay once your plans are set, or let auto-pay kick in two days* before your experience.
  4. Enjoy your experience
    Now you're all set! Have a great time.

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