Hue Day Trip From Da Nang | Journey into Vietnam’s Imperial Past

Hue was Vietnam’s capital from 1802 to 1945, and it is now a calm and culturally rich city that proudly preserves its imperial past. Hue, the historic center of the Nguyen Dynasty, is home to stately palaces, old citadels, royal tombs, and respected pagodas, many of which are designated UNESCO World Heritage sites. Hue, located along the serene banks of the Perfume River, provides tourists with a rare view into Vietnam’s regal past, which is enhanced by traditional food, beautiful vistas, and a spiritual environment. So, if you are from Da Nang and would like to do Hue Day Trip from Da Nang, this trip is for you. With our guided tour, selected places and nice vehicle, Premium Travel Vietnam will take you on a tour package with lasting memories.

FACTS OF HUE

The name

Hue comes from word “Thuan Hoa”. in 1466, King Le Thanh Tong divided Dai Viet into 12 provinces and officially named “Thuan Hoa” region. Later, Thuan Hoa became Thuan Hue and today the Vietnamese people call Hue.

Where is Hue located?

Hue is located around 100 kilometers (62 miles) north of Da Nang, Vietnam. It borders the East sea on the east, Quang Tri province to the north and Laos to the west. IIt usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to go between Da Nang and Hue by car.

HOW TO TRAVEL FROM DA NANG TO HUE IN 1 ONE DAY?

By private car

Traveling from Da Nang to Hue by private car/vehicle is the most convenient, pleasant, and adaptable choice for a one-day journey. The drive takes about 2 to 2.5 hours each way, depending on which route you take—through the Hai Van Tunnel for speed or via the picturesque Hai Van Pass for breathtaking sea and mountain views.

With a private car, you’ll have hotel pickup and drop-off, a tailored itinerary, and the opportunity to see attractions along the road like Hai Van Pass, Lang Co Beach, Lap An Lagoon, or An Bang Cemetery…Once in Hue, your driver can take you to the city’s main sights, including the Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, and royal tombs.

By a guided tour

Taking a guided tour from Da Nang to Hue is the ideal way to discover Vietnam’s imperial heritage in one day without the burden of arranging. With booking through a travel agent in Da Nang, you will be escorted in a comfortable car, knowledgeable tour guide and tailor – made itinerary enabling you to save time and online searching. Thus, you’ll learn about Hue’s history, architecture, and culture, culinary from a knowledgable, English-speaking guide as you tour significant locations including as the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the royal tombs. Book a guided tour through a travel company, they will handle logistics, admittance tickets, and timing to provide a pleasant and enriching visit. Along the trip, take in spectacular sites like Hai Van Pass and Lang Co Lagoon, which will make the journey as memorable as the destination.

By taxi or grab

Another way to do Hue 1 Day Tour from Da Nang is to book taxi or grab service. Taking a taxi or Grab from Da Nang to Hue is a flexible and straightforward option for travelers seeking a private ride without booking a tour. The journey typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, but you have to oay fares depending on distance and traffic. This method is suitable for solo travelers or couples who want direct transport with minimal planning. However, unlike a guided tour or private car service, taxis and Grab rides usually don’t include stops at scenic points like Hai Van Pass or Lap An Lagoon, and drivers may not speak English. It’s convenient but less immersive.

By shared tour group

Another budget – friendly choice in Hue Full Day Tour from Da Nang is to join a shared tour group which is a cost-effective and sociable way to explore Hue from Da Nang in one day. These group tours typically include round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and lunch. You’ll visit major sites such as the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and one or two royal tombs, following a fixed itinerary. Some group tours also include scenic stops like the Hai Van Pass or Lang Co Beach. While less flexible than private tours, shared tours are ideal for travelers looking to experience Hue’s highlights at an affordable price while meeting fellow tourists. However, taking this way, travelers may not have private stories and sometimes it’s noisy on bus, loosing your concentration.

HIGHLIGHTS OF HUE DAY TOUR FROM DA NANG?

HAI VAN PASS

Amazing pass connect Da Nang and Hue city. Hai Van Pass was included in the top 10 most picturesque drives in the world in 2021 by renowned US publication Travel + Leisure.

LANG CO TOWN

Lang Co means Stork village and it is a fishing village. It is renowned for its pristine long beaches, breezy fresh seafood eateries, and breathtaking scenery.

Thanks to its beautiful location, Lang Co Bay is known as one of 30 most beautiful bays in the world. It got beautiful mountain scenery, pristine, refreshing streams to swim in, and an island to experience with snorkeling.

Thus, Lang Co is truly wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of the big cities like Hue or Da Nang.

HUE CITADEL

A big complex used to be the political and working offices for the Nguyen Emperors from 1802 till 1945. These serve as the Nguyen Emperor’s and his family’s houses, theaters, pavilions, and palaces, all of which are lavishly ornamented. The king also built impressive temples to worship his father and ancestors as well as gorgeous planted gardens for relaxation.

Visitors can visit some of the nearly 150 buildings that were left due to recent wars and natural disasters.

THIEN MU PAGODA

Thien Mu Pagoda is well known spot in Hue with a rich history dating back to the 17th century, great Buddhist architecture, a picturesque position atop a hill by the Perfume River. The Phuoc Duyen Tower, which may be found in countless works of art about Hue, is the city’s most recognizable structure.

KHAI DINH MAUSOLEUM

The final imperial mausoleum constructed in Hue in Vietnam is the Tomb of Khai Dinh. It is renowned for having unique architecture and artwork that, at the time, had never been seen in the nation.

Here, timber was replaced by concrete, cement, ceramic, glass, and metal, and gardens, trees, and lakes vanished. Local people claim that these represent the unique personality of the owner, the French-friendly Khai Dinh King. The mausoleum, which was formerly considered a waste of money and an odd-looking structure, now draws a large number of tourists who come to enjoy a priceless heritage. The tomb is a part of the Hue Monument Complex, which Unesco designated as a World Heritage Site in 1993.

A SUGGESTED ITINERARY FOR HUE 1 DAY TOUR FROM DA NANG

As you know, Hue served as Vietnam’s previous capital during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 – 1945). Hue Monuments Complex was added to the World Cultural Heritage List on December 11th, 1993 because it preserved a great deal of history, culture, and architecture from the Nguyen era.

Pick up at hotel

So, in the morning, as the sun rises, tour guide and driver from Premium Travel Vietnam will come to meet you up at the hotel and we will kick off our Hue Day Trip from Da Nang

Hai Van Pass

First stop is a scenic driver over the Hai Van Pass with spectacular views of mountains and East Sea. On the way, our car and driver will make a short break on the summit of the road where you can see the remains of Vietnam war like American bunkers, watch towers built under Emperor Minh Mang and stunning views of Lang Co town.

Lap An Lagoon

Proceed our Hue Day Trip from Da Nang with a short stop at Lap An Lagoon with coffee break and crystal blue water view for your great photographs. Next, our car and driver will take you on the National road of Vietnam. Thus, you can see lush rice paddy fields, rustic villages on the way.

Hue Citadel

On arrival in Hue, the first attraction of our Hue Full Day Tour from Da Nang is to visit majestic Hue Citadel built from the 19th century, which houses the Imperial City, the Purple Forbidden Palace, and several other historic locations. Although the city and Citadel were severely damaged during the most famous “Battle of Hue,” which took place in 1968 during the Tet Offensive but reconstruction efforts and signs of this damage may still be seen today.

Lunch

To sample some of Hue’s finest culinary, our tour guide then escorts you to a local restaurant where you can try Banh Xeo (Hue’s Pancake), Grilled Pork Skewer (Nem Lui) or Bun Bo Hue (Hue’s Beef Noodle Soup) that is recently recognized as intangible heritage of Vietnam.

Thien Mu Pagoda

After lunch, we continue our journey to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue’s most recognizable and religious sites. This historic pagoda, located peacefully along the banks of the Perfume River, dates back to the early 1600s and is famous for its exquisite seven-story tower, Phuoc Duyen. As we travel through the temple grounds, you’ll enjoy a peaceful ambiance, learn about its fascinating history, and view the Austin vehicle that drove monk Thich Quang Duc to his famous self-immolation in 1963. Thien Mu Pagoda is more than just a religious institution; it is a significant emblem of Vietnam’s spiritual and political heritage.

Khai Dinh Tomb

To conclude our Day Trip to Hue from Da Nang, we will visit the Khai Dinh Mausoleum, which is one of Vietnam’s most ornate and visually spectacular royal tombs. Built for Emperor Khai Dinh, the 12th emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty, this mausoleum is a remarkable blend of Eastern and Western architecture, with French-inspired design, elaborate dragon mosaics, and brilliant glass and porcelain inlays. As you ascend the stone staircases leading to the great hall, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Inside, the richly adorned interior and the emperor’s bronze statue leave a memorable impact, rounding off your historical tour of Hue.

Drop off at hotel

When you’re done, the driver and guide will take you back to Da Nang. Our Hue Day Trip from Da Nang will end here.

5 OPTIONAL TOURS FOR 1 DAY TRIP TO HUE FROM DA NANG?

Option 1: Da Nang – Lady Buddha – Hai Van Tunnel – Hue city tour – Drop off in Da Nang

Begin your day with a hotel pickup in Da Nang and visit Linh Ung Pagoda to see the towering Lady Buddha monument overlooking the sea. Continue your drive through the Hai Van Tunnel, Southeast Asia’s longest road tunnel, for a smooth and efficient connection to Hue. Upon arrival, start your Hue city tour by visiting the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and a royal tomb. Enjoy a tasty native lunch before returning to Da Nang in the late afternoon, capping off a memorable cultural excursion.

Option 2: Da Nang – Hai Van Pass – Mo Springs – Hue Imperial – Thien Mu Pagoda – Khai Dinh Tomb – Drop off in Hue

Begin your adventure Hue Private Tour from Da Nang with a picturesque drive via the breathtaking Hai Van Pass, which provides panoramic views of the coast and mountains. Take a soothing break at the tranquil Mo Springs, where you may rest by the beautiful waters or take photos in the natural surroundings. Continue to Hue and visit the spectacular Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in royal history. After a local lunch, head to the magnificent Thien Mu Pagoda by the Perfume River. Conclude your day visiting the lavishly decorated Khai Dinh Tomb before being dropped off at your Hue hotel, capping off an unforgettable cultural experience.

Option 3: Da Nang – Hai Van Pass – Lap An Lagoon – Tu Duc and Khai Dinh Royal Tombs – lunch – Hue Imperial city – Drop off in Da Nang

Another option of visiting Hue from Da Nang in 1 day is to kick off your day with a picturesque drive from Da Nang across the breathtaking Hai Van Pass, which is famous for its panoramic views of mountains and sea. Next, we then visit the serene Lap An Lagoon in Lang Co for photographs and a quick respite.

When you arrive in Hue, check out the elegant Tu Duc Tomb before moving on to the enormous and artistic Khai Dinh Tomb. Later, you will enjoy a tasty local lunch before seeing the historic Hue Imperial City, which includes the Forbidden Purple City and royal gates. After a day of with culture, architecture, and history, your guide will return you to Da Nang with memorable day excursion.

Option 4: Da Nang – Hai Van Pass – Lap An Oyster farm – Minh Mang Tomb – Khai Dinh Tomb – lunch – Hue Imperial city – Drop off in Da Nang

Depart from Da Nang for a picturesque drive up the majestic Hai Van Pass, which offers breathtaking mountain and sea vistas. Stop at Lap An Lagoon to visit a local oyster farm and learn about traditional oyster cultivation. Continue on to Hue to visit the tranquil and beautifully manicured Minh Mang Tomb, followed by the Khai Dinh Tomb, which boasts elaborate construction. After a delicious local lunch, head to Hue Imperial City, where Vietnam’s final dynasty once ruled. Discover imperial palaces, gateways, and temples within this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Following the tour, return to Da Nang in comfort and gorgeous vacation.

Option 5: Da Nang – Minh Mang Tomb – Khai Dinh Tomb – Tu Duc Tomb – lunch – Hue Imperial city – Drop off in Da Nang

Last option in our Da Nang to Hue Day Trip is to commence your cultural tour with a direct transfer from Da Nang to Hue, beginning with a visit to the serene Minh Mang Tomb, which is noted for its harmonious layout and beautiful surroundings. Explore the exquisite designs of the Khai Dinh Tomb, which is a unique blend of Eastern and Western architecture. Continue to the magnificent Tu Duc Tomb, which is nestled in a romantic garden environment that was formerly the emperor’s hideaway. After a wonderful Vietnamese lunch, embark on a guided tour of Hue’s Imperial City, which includes the Noon Gate and the Forbidden Purple City. After a full day of adventure, return to Da Nang with wonderful experiences.

HUE FULL DAY TOUR FROM DA NANG Price, INCLUSIONS, EXCLUSIONS, CHILDREN POLICY

PRICE

Please send an email to us at premiumvietnamtravel@gmail.com or whatsapp Mr. Viet (Manager) at +84 979613777 for more details about the price of this fantastic tour. We will be at your service 24/7

INCLUSIONS

• Air con private car
• English speaking guide
• Experienced driver
• All entrance tickets
• Water and tissues
• Vietnamese set menu lunch (optional)

EXCLUSIONS

• Travel insurance
• Tips and gratuities
• Personal expenses
• Other not mentioned in the tour program

CHILDREN POLICY

• Children under 5 years old: free of charge
• Children from 6 to 12 years old: 50% charge
• Children over 12 years old: full charge as adult

USEFUL TIPS FOR A HUE CHEAP TOUR FROM DA NANG?

Which is nice time to travel to Hue?

From February to April, the weather in Hue is temperate and pleasant, making it an excellent time to visit ancient buildings, mausoleums, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.

From May to to August, the weather is fairly sunny, hot and humid yet ideal for people who enjoy exploring the sea. To avoid the heat in Hue, we recommend you to start Hue Day Tour from Da Nang early. Travel this time of year, you need to wear light clothing, water, sun glasses, sun cream and long sleeve shirt for arm cover.

From September to January of the next year: Hue enters the rainy season and becomes slightly cool. During this time of year, it can have a pouring rain due to typhoon from East sea and monsoon from the North. It is important to know that the storm season runs from October to December, with relentless rains that seem to never end. Therefore, to fulfill your trip to Hue from Da Nang, you need to check the weather forecast at least a week ahead to secure a wonderful journey.

Restaurant recommendations?

Y Thao Garden restaurant

Address: 3 Thach Han st, Hue city

Les Jardins de la Carambole restaurant

Address: 32 Dang Tran Con st, Hue

Moc Vien restaurant

Address: 2E Hoai Thanh st, Hue city

Madam Thu restaurant

45 Vo Thi Sau st, Hue city

Golden Rice restaurant

Address: 40 Pham Ngu Lao st, Hue city

Food to eat?

Bun Bo Hue (Hue’s Beef Noodle Soup)

a spicy Vietnamese beef noodle soup from Hue, featuring lemongrass broth, sliced beef, and thick rice noodles.

Banh Beo Hue (Hue steamed savory rice cakes)

a popular Hue specialty made from steamed rice flour batter served in small dishes. Each cake is topped with minced shrimp, crispy pork skin, scallion oil, and served with sweet-savory fish sauce. Soft, fragrant, and flavorful and a must try dish in Hue

Banh Canh Nam Pho (Nam Pho thick noodle soup)

Banh Canh Nam Pho is a dish made with thick, chewy noodles (often tapioca or a tapioca-rice flour mix) served in a savory broth.

Nem Lui Hue (Hue’s Grilled Pork Skewer)

a traditional grilled pork skewer dish from Hue, Vietnam. Seasoned minced pork is molded around lemongrass stalks or bamboo sticks, then grilled over charcoal. It’s served with fresh herbs, rice paper, and a rich peanut dipping sauce, offering a flavorful and interactive dining experience.

Banh Ep Hue (Hue-style pressed tapioca pancake)

a popular Hue street food made by pressing seasoned pork, egg, and green onion between thin layers of tapioca flour, then grilling it until crispy outside and chewy inside. It’s served with pickled vegetables and spicy fish sauce.

Banh Nam Hue (Hue steamed rice flour cake in banana leaf)

a soft, flat rice dumpling from Hue, made with rice flour, topped with minced shrimp and pork, wrapped in banana leaves, then steamed. It’s served with fish sauce.

Va Tron (fig salad)

a traditional Hue dish made from boiled green figs, shredded pork or shrimp, herbs, and roasted peanuts. Lightly seasoned with fish sauce, it’s refreshing, mildly sweet, and uniquely crunchy—perfect as an appetizer or side dish.

OTHER HOT PLACES TO CHECK IN WHEN TRAVELING TO HUE FROM DA NANG?

An Dinh Palace

A magnificently preserved royal mansion with European-style architecture, rich frescoes, and historical significance as the childhood home of Vietnam’s last Emperor, Bao Dai.

Royal Arena (Ho Quyen)

An old tiger-elephant fighting arena constructed in 1830 for royal pleasure. This historic landmark embodies the Nguyen Dynasty’s distinct traditions and provides insight into Vietnam’s imperial spectacles and cultural rites.

Ru Cha Jungle

Ru Cha is a virgin mangrove forest located 15 km east of Hue, on the edge of the Tam Giang Lagoon, Southeast Asia’s largest lagoon system. The sturdy “chá” trees (Excoecaria agallocha) dominate the forest, which spans approximately 5 hectares and maintains a key natural barrier against seawater incursion.

Chuon Lagoon

Chuon Lagoon, part of Southeast Asia’s largest Tam-Giang-Cau-Hai system, is located approximately 10-15 km from Hue. This tranquil brackish-water lagoon is noted for its gorgeous sunrise reflections, traditional fishing activities, floating eateries, and a relaxing off-the-beaten-path ambiance.

Bach Ma National Park

a nature reserve located around 40 kilometers south of Hue, famed for its cool environment, thick trees, and rich species. Visitors can explore gorgeous hiking paths, see the Do Quyen Waterfall, take panoramic views from Bach Ma Peak, and see French-era villas hidden in the hills.

Thuan An Beach

Located approximately 15 kilometers east of Hue city, this beach provides a peaceful coastal vacation with soft gray sand, calm waves, and a serene ambiance. Ideal for watching sunsets, enjoying delicious seafood by the sea, and unwinding away from congested tourist attractions.

Thuy Tien Lake (Thuy Tien Abandoned Water Park)

is a spooky, abandoned theme park just south of Hue that features a massive moss-covered dragon, rusted slides, and decaying aquariums. It was once magnificent but was abandoned in 2004 and is now a popular destination for intrepid urban explorers.

Cau Ngoi Thanh Toan (Thanh Toan Tiled Roof Bridge)

An 18th-century covered wooden bridge near Hue was erected in 1776 and renovated throughout time. The “house-over-bridge” style, glazed-tile roof, and shrine in its center make it a lovely cultural and historical landmark.

RULES TO VISIT HUE FROM DA NANG?

• Dress Modestly: Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts, tank tops, or revealing outfits.

• Speak Softly: Keep noise to a minimum, especially in pagodas and tombs.

• No Flash Photography: Some areas prohibit flash or indoor photography. Look for posted signs.

• Don’t Touch Sacred Objects: Avoid touching altars, statues, or relics.

• Remove Hats and Sunglasses: When entering pagodas or temple halls.

• No Smoking or Eating: These activities are not allowed inside temple grounds.

HOW BOOK HUE CITY TOUR FROM DA NANG?

So, if you come to Da Nang city, Vietnam and would like to have The Best Hue Day Trip from Da Nang, do not hesitate to contact us:

Visit Premium Travel Vietnam’s head office

245 Hoai Thanh street, Ngu Hanh Son Ward, Da Nang city

Whatsapp

0084 979613777 (Mr. Viet – Travel Manager)

Websites

https://premiumtravel.info/ or https://premiumtravelvietnam.vn/

Email

premiumvietnamtravel@gmail.com

Facebook page

https://facebook.com/premiumtravelvietnam

FAQS

Is Hue worth visiting?

Hue is smaller than Da Nang but it owns many beautiful landscapes in Hue such as Buddist pagodas, royal tombs, Citadel and much more. In addition, all royal palaces, Hue Citadel and royal tombs of Nguyen Emperors have elaborate designs and architectures. Some of them have unique styles and nature-friendly landscapes make Hue Day Trip from Da Nang worth visiting.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?

Yes, the tour is generally suitable for all ages. However, the tour requires lots of walking at historical sites, so wearing comfortable shoes and taking sun protection is recommended.

Can I customize the itinerary or book a private tour?

Absolutely. Many travel agencies, such as Premium Travel Vietnam, offer private and customizable tours with flexible pickup times, personalized stops, and tailored experiences based on your interests. In addition, you can add on some other attractions if you would like. For example, you can add Minh Mang Tomb, Dong Ba Market or Thanh Toan Tiled Roof Bridge in your trip package.

Can I book Hue City Tour from Hue?

Of course, today, you can book the trip via our whatsapp (+84 979613777) or email at premiumvietnamtravel@gmail.com 

What are the main attractions included in the trip?

The highlights of this adventure is the Hai Van Pass, Lap An Lagoon, Hue Imperial city, Tu Duc Tomb and Khai Dinh Tomb.

Could I do Hue Day Trip from Hoi An?

Absolutely, you can book Hue Day Tour from Hoi An through our whatsapp number or email above. We ensure the best price for you.

In conclusion, Hue Full Day Tour from Da Nang is an ideal combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a historical trip for your with a comprehensive view into Vietnam’s royal past, from visiting imperial sites such as the Citadel and royal tombs to boating down the Perfume River and savoring local cuisine. Whether you’re from Da Nang, Hoi An or in Hue, this 1 day trip will leave you with lasting impressions of Central Vietnam’s legacy and charm.