Explore Hue with family: 9 best things to do

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, captivates visitors with its serene rivers, historic palaces, and graceful charm that lingers in every corner. Traveling to Hue with family is more than just a journey—it’s a chance to bond over cultural discoveries, scenic landscapes, and unique experiences that bring Vietnam’s rich heritage to life. Imagine your loved ones exploring royal tombs, tasting local delicacies, or drifting along the Perfume River while traditional folk music plays in the background. Each moment in Hue becomes a shared memory, full of color and meaning.

To make the most of your time in this enchanting city, let Hanoi Voyages craft a personalized itinerary tailored for families. With thoughtful planning and local insight, your Hue family holiday will be smooth, inspiring, and unforgettable.

Why you should visit Hue with family

Traveling to Hue with family offers a perfect blend of cultural discovery, natural beauty, and relaxing experiences. This former imperial capital of Vietnam is not only rich in history but also offers a peaceful, safe environment ideal for all ages. Whether you're walking together through the grand corridors of the Imperial City, enjoying a traditional dragon boat ride on the Perfume River, or tasting delicious local dishes at family-friendly restaurants, Hue creates unforgettable moments for every generation.

Hue’s calm pace of life and abundance of open spaces—like royal tombs set in tranquil gardens or the picturesque beaches just outside the city—make it easy to relax and explore without stress. The locals are welcoming and warm-hearted, especially toward children, making your Hue with family adventure even more enjoyable. If you're looking for a destination where education, fun, and family bonding go hand in hand, Hue is one of Vietnam’s best-kept treasures.

Top 9 things to do in Hue with family

Hue is a city where Vietnam's imperial history is revealed around every corner. As the country's former capital, it's full of historic sites, palaces, and peaceful landscapes, making it a must-see destination for any traveler seeking authenticity. These top 9 best things to do in Hue with family to help you fully experience the essence of this fascinating city.

Visit to the Imperial City of Hue

Touring the Imperial City of Hue is like stepping back in time to discover Vietnam's royal past. One of the highlights of the tour is the Forbidden City, once reserved exclusively for the emperor and his family. Despite the destruction caused by past wars, the remnants of its former glory remain among the best things to see in Hue.

Exploring this site during your Hue family trip can be both educational and memorable, especially for children learning about Vietnamese history. Strolling through the palace grounds, visitors can admire imposing gates like the Meridian Gate, intricate dragon mosaics, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Each structure within the Imperial City tells a story of Vietnam's rich heritage—from the majestic Thai Hoa Palace to the peaceful Mandarin Halls—making it a rewarding destination when traveling in Hue with family.

Exploring the Minh Mang Mausoleum

Among Hue's most famous tombs, the Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang is a must-see. Located in a splendid natural setting, surrounded by lush gardens and peaceful lakes, this tomb embodies the perfect harmony between imperial architecture and the surrounding nature. The mausoleum reflects Minh Mang's philosophy, which values balance between the spiritual and material worlds. A visit here allows you to experience the serenity of the place, making it one of the best things to do in Hue with family, especially for those interested in history, culture, and quiet natural beauty.

This site is a great stop on any Hue family trip, offering open spaces for children to explore and a peaceful atmosphere that adults will appreciate.

Opening Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Entrance fees for the Minh Mang Mausoleum in Hue:

• Adults: ~$4.30

• Seniors: ~$2.15

• Children: ~$0.85

Take a trip to Thuy Xuan Incense Village

A trip to Thuy Xuan Incense Village offers a fascinating insight into the ancient art of incense making, a tradition deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture. This village is renowned for being one of the oldest and most prestigious in Hue. Visitors have the opportunity to observe traditional techniques used to make incense sticks up close and purchase products directly from the artisans.

A visit to Thuy Xuan Incense Village is not only educational but also engaging for all ages, making it a perfect stop when exploring Hue with family. Watching the colorful incense sticks being crafted by hand and even trying to roll a few yourself adds a hands-on element to your cultural experience. This activity is a great addition to any Hue family holiday, combining cultural enrichment with sensory delight and allowing families to connect with Vietnam's rich heritage in a fun and meaningful way.

Experience Hue Folk Songs by boat on the Perfume River

Enjoying Hue's folk songs while cruising on the Perfume River by boat is a magical and immersive experience. It's one of the best things to do in Hue to connect with the region's rich musical heritage while admiring the scenic beauty of the city's waterways. This type of trip in Vietnam offers a unique way to discover the soul of Hue, combining tradition and nature, and allows visitors to immerse themselves in the serene and cultural ambiance of this historic city while enjoying peaceful moments on the water.

As you glide along the river, talented local musicians and singers will enchant you with Hue folk songs. Take the time to listen carefully to the lyrics to better understand the local history, culture, and traditions. For those traveling in Hue with family, this experience offers a tranquil and memorable evening that appeals to both adults and children. Don’t forget to enjoy the magnificent views of the riverside monuments, lit by the stars, for an unforgettable experience that beautifully blends music, history, and family time.

Discovering the Dong Ba market

Exploring Dong Ba Market is one of the best things to do in Hue. The market's aisles are lined with stalls selling a wide variety of products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to seafood, meats, spices, and traditional handicrafts.

Additionally, a visit to Dong Ba Market offers a fascinating glimpse into the rhythm of daily life in Hue. The market bustles with activity from morning until late afternoon, with traders haggling with customers and shoppers wandering the winding streets in search of bargains. It's a vibrant atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of Vietnam's bustling street markets.

Hiking in Bach Ma National Park

Hiking in Bach Ma National Park offers adventurers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural beauty and biodiversity of Central Vietnam. Located just 40 kilometers south of Hue, it is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The hiking trails in Bach Ma National Park wind through lush rainforests and impressive waterfalls, offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. As hikers delve deeper into the park, they will have the opportunity to discover a wide variety of flora and fauna, with plant and animal species found nowhere else in the world.

Exploring Bach Ma is an unforgettable experience when visiting Hue with family, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to introduce children to Vietnam's natural heritage. The park offers a peaceful, refreshing escape from the city, with just enough adventure to make it a memorable day for all ages.

Discovery of the Tam Giang lagoon in Hue

Tam Giang Lagoon is a must-see for those seeking natural beauty and cultural authenticity during a Hue family holiday. With its calm waters, Chuon Lake offers scenic boat rides and photo opportunities, while activities like fishing and seafood catching provide fun, hands-on experiences for both kids and adults. The nearby Ru Chá mangrove forest and Thai Duong Ha fishing village offer peaceful landscapes and a glimpse into traditional local life.

For families traveling in Hue with family, watching the sunrise or sunset over the lagoon is a truly memorable moment. More adventurous visitors can try stand-up paddleboarding or explore the floating markets, where fresh local dishes await. Tam Giang Lagoon combines nature, culture, and relaxation—perfect for creating shared memories.

Exploring the beaches around Hue

Although Hue is not directly located on the seafront, several picturesque beaches nearby are ideal for a day trip or longer stays, offering visitors the opportunity to relax and discover the natural beauty of the area. These coastal escapes are perfect additions to a Hue family holiday, especially for those looking to balance cultural exploration with outdoor fun.

Lang Co Beach

Lang Co Beach, about 30 kilometers north of Hue, is a true paradise with its fine sand fringed with palm trees and turquoise waters. The beach is also a great place to try water sports like kayaking and windsurfing. If you're a nature lover, you can explore the surrounding hills or go hiking to enjoy spectacular panoramas of Lang Co Bay. Visiting Lang Co with family offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a favorite for multigenerational trips.

Thuan An Beach

Just 15 kilometers south of Hue, Thuan An Beach is a closer spot from the city, ideal for a day trip during your Hue family holiday. In addition to enjoying the sea, visitors can stroll through nearby fishing villages, experience the local lifestyle, and sample fresh seafood at the small seaside restaurants. For those traveling in Hue with family, Thuan An is also a great place to unwind, play on the beach with kids, and watch the sun set over the ocean for a peaceful end to the day.

Discover must-try Hue dishes

Exploring Hue’s rich culinary heritage is a highlight for any traveler, especially when experiencing Hue with family. The city's cuisine reflects its imperial past and offers a delicious blend of bold flavors, local ingredients, and centuries-old recipes. Sharing these dishes with your loved ones adds an extra layer of warmth to your Hue family trip.

Here are some must-try dishes the whole family can enjoy:

• Bun bo Hue: A spicy and flavorful beef noodle soup that’s iconic to the region. Its aromatic broth and tender meat make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

• Banh beo: Small steamed rice cakes topped with shrimp, pork cracklings, and scallions - perfect for snacking or sharing.

• Banh bot loc: Chewy tapioca dumplings filled with shrimp and pork, often served with sweet chili fish sauce.

• Com hen: A rustic dish of baby clams served over rice with herbs, peanuts, and crispy toppings - great for adventurous eaters.

• Che Hue: A variety of traditional sweet soups and puddings made with ingredients like mung beans, lotus seeds, and coconut - perfect for dessert, especially for kids.

For more delicious food in Hue, you can read our blog: Top 11 must-try traditional dishes in Hue

Beyond these experiences, Hue has even more to offer. To make the most of your adventure, let Hanoi Voyages craft a seamless and unforgettable journey for you. With our carefully curated tours, you can explore the best of Hue and its surroundings.

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Essential tips for traveling to Hue with family

When preparing your Hue travel itinerary, packing the right essentials is crucial for a smooth trip.

• Passport and visa: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and check Vietnam’s visa requirements in advance.

• Currency and payment: Bring enough Vietnamese Dong (VND) in cash, as some places may not accept cards. While ATMs are available, they can be scarce in remote areas.

• Local SIM card: Purchasing a Vietnamese SIM with data is useful for navigation, communication, and booking services.

• Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothes suitable for Hue’s warm, humid weather. A raincoat or umbrella is recommended during the rainy season.

• Comfortable shoes: Necessary for exploring Hue’s Imperial City, tombs, and bustling markets.

• Sunscreen and hat: Protect yourself from strong sun exposure while sightseeing.

For more information: Hue travel tips: 7 best ways to prepare for your trip

Hue is a true gem waiting to be discovered, where every street corner tells a story and every landscape invites contemplation. From majestic mausoleums to tranquil beaches, there is so much to do in Hue to immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere. If you're ready to explore this city steeped in history, Hanoi Voyages offers tailor-made itineraries to ensure you have an unforgettable experience. Don't wait any longer, contact us now!