In Central Vietnam, Hue boasts unique architectural works, cultural traditions, and longstanding values that embody the once-prosperous dynasty. Today, it is considered one of the country’s must-see destinations, offering many special places to visit.  Hue is currently home to various UNESCO-recognized heritage sites. There are several worth-visiting places in Hue, Vietnam. In the first part of this article, we will discuss the top constructions that make the city popular. 1. Hue Imperial City (Hue Citadel) This is among the indispensable places in Hue. The Imperial City of Hue was founded by Emperor Gia Long in the early 19th century and served as the capital during the Nguyen Dynasty, the last feudal dynasty in Vietnam’s history. It’s a walled complex with royal courts, temples, gardens, and homes for officials.  The city faces the Perfume River (or Huong River) and is protected by walls, cannons, and a moat. Hue Imperial City became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. Inside are four outer courts, 14 inner courts, a garden, royal residences, pavilions, and six temples.  Due to bombings during the Vietnam War, only 10 of the original 160 buildings remain. Visitors can explore many empty buildings here while others are being restored, including halls, gates, and shrines. The entrance fee for an adult is about $8 (VND 200,000) and $1.5 (VND 40,000) for kids aged 7-12.  2. Thien Mu Pagoda Around 5km Southwest of the Citadel, you will see the seven-story Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s symbol and one of Vietnam’s most famous and iconic pagodas. It was built in 1601 by Nguyen Hoang, Governor of Thuan Hoa (now Quang Binh, Quang Tri, Thua Thien Hue). Its buildings were destroyed and renovated many times over the centuries.  Thien Mu Pagoda is not only a purely spiritual place to visit in Hue but also a beautiful landscape of Vietnam’s ancient capital.  You are allowed to enter the pagoda without fee. Come here in the morning to avoid the large tour groups and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.    3. Mausoleums of Emperor Mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc The tomb, completed in 1867, is the most impressive of the royal mausoleums and was designed by Emperor Tu Duc himself. It is also recognized by UNESCO as a Cultural Heritage Site. Situated 5km south of Hue in Duong Xuan Thuong village, the Mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc was constructed at great expense and with forced labor.  Divided into a Temple Area and a Tomb Area, the mausoleum is located atop a hill and comprises numerous small buildings. The most notable feature is a 20-ton pillar inscribed with 4,935 Chinese characters written by Tu Duc. Despite the construction of the tomb, King Tu Duc was not buried there after his death, and the actual location of his burial site remains unknown.  To visit this place in Hue, an adult will be charged $5.9 for tour guide service.  Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh The Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh, a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site, was built from 1920 to 1931 for the twelfth Nguyen Emperor. It took more time than Emperor Khai Dinh reigned.  The tomb sits on Chau Chu Mountain, about 10km from Hue city center, and blends Asian-European architecture. With 127 steps and dragon sculptures, it overlooks a courtyard with statues. Visitors will pay $5.9 per adult to visit this well-known place. Audio guides are available in many languages.  Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang  Minh Mang, the ruler from 1820 to 1840, initiated the construction of this grand tomb, which was completed by his successor, Thieu Tri. Located on the west bank of the Perfume River, it is admired for its architectural beauty and serene forest surroundings.  Across Tan Nguyet Lake, a monumental staircase adorned with dragon banisters leads to Minh Mang's burial site. The gate to his tomb is opened just once a year, on the anniversary of his passing. This remarkable tomb is situated in An Bang village, approximately 12km away from Hue city center.  The entry fee is also $5.9/adult.   4. Dong Ba Market Dong Ba Market is Hue’s main shopping hub, boasting a large indoor two-story market and vibrant local food stalls. This is the place to visit in Hue if you want to immerse in the local community.   It offers a wide array of items such as souvenirs, handmade clothing, ceramics, footwear, food, and fresh produce. Though it opens at 3 AM for locals seeking fresh seafood, you can visit later in the day for souvenir purchasing. Don’t miss trying local specialties like noodles, traditional candies, and spring rolls.  For clothing and wearable souvenirs, head to the second floor where you’ll find textiles and the iconic Vietnamese “non la” (conical leaf hats). Additionally, the market showcases lacquerware, bamboo products, and “guoc moc”, simple clogs made of bamboo or wood. 5. Ngo Mon (Noon Gate) The main entrance to the Imperial Enclosure is the Ngo Mon, facing the Flag Tower. Reserved exclusively for the emperor's use, the central passageway features yellow doors and a bridge over the lotus pond. Others had to use the gates on either side and the paths around the pond. Atop the gate sits the Ngu Phung, also known as the Belvedere of the Five Phoenixes, housing a large drum and bell on its upper level. The gate shares its name and appearance with the first gate of the Forbidden City in Beijing. The emperor often made appearances here, especially during significant events like the promulgation of the lunar calendar.  On August 30, 1945, the abdication ceremony of Emperor Bao Dai took place at Ngo Mon. The Nguyen dynasty concluded, putting an end to the feudal regime that existed for more than 10 centuries.   The city of Hue witnessed many significant events in Vietnam’s history, making it one of the must-visit historical and cultural destinations in the country. In addition to the places listed above, there are other iconic constructions in Hue such as Trang Tien Bridge, Huyen Tran Princess Temple, Royal Theater, Hai Van Pass, etc. You can visit them to learn more about Vietnam’s former capital.  In the next part, we will introduce you to the best natural landscapes in Hue, Vietnam. Follow us to keep updated!