Excursion Hue – the imperial city tour at Da Nang

Relive Vietnam's royal grandeur during this full-day outing to Hue (pronounced 'whay').

Depart the pier and begin the journey to Hue. Crossing the Hai Van (Cloudy) Pass Tunnels, the route takes you through what is arguably Vietnam's most spectacular scenery. The last stretch toward Hue takes you along a winding, scenic road, through pine forests and orchards.

Hue

Located eight miles (13 kilometres) from the coast and close to the Laos border, Hue has long been known as the 'Imperial City of the Nguyen Emperors'. The Emperors rose to glory during their reign from 1802 to 1945 and were the last ruling family of Vietnam. The city's fascinating treasures include the Imperial Citadel, Kings' Tomb, temples and pagodas.

Citadel

Begin your visit with a guided walk inside the citadel, modeled after the Forbidden City in Beijing. Passing through the impressive Noon Gate, head toward the main pavilion, the Place of Supreme Harmony. It was here that important ceremonies took place; recent reconstruction has seen this building restored to its former splendour with regal red and gold columns and ornate furnishings.

Thien Mu Pagoda

The next stop is at the Heavenly Lady Pagoda. With its seven-storey tower, overlooking the Perfume River, it is probably the most famous Hue landmark. Inside, a garden filled with bonsai is tended by novices, while in the main temple you may encounter a dedicated monk chanting recantations.

Following this visit of the pagoda, drive to the city's leading hotel for an 'imperial' lunch, accompanied by a traditional entertainment. The meal features Asian specialties including those particular to Hue, where Vietnamese cuisine is more varied than anywhere else in the country.

Imperial Tomb

After lunch, continue your exploration with a visit to the Tu Duc Tomb, the most elaborate of the many scattered over the countryside. It resembles a miniature royal palace, with an attractive pavilion overlooking a tranquil lake, fragrant gardens and hunting grounds. The tombs built by the Nguyen Dynasty emperors, served as places of recreation during their life time and resting places for the after life.

Departing the Tu Duc Tomb, begin the journey back to Da Nang and the ship.

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking, with steps to climb, to see all of the sites. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Driving time to Hue is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours each way, with a mid-way comfort stop. There are no restroom facilities on the coach. Part of the drive is on a steep, winding road. The order of sights seen or visited may vary.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Da Nang, Hai Van Pass Tunnels, Eastern Sea, Lang Co Peninsula, Imperial Citadel, Noon Gate, Place of Supreme Harmony, Kings' Tomb, Thien Mu Pagoda, Perfume River