Perfume River Cruises

Set along the gentle curve of the Perfume River, this experience offers a thoughtful introduction to Hue’s imperial past.

Along the way, unhurried travel and time on the water reveal a quieter, more reflective side of the city.

Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda

One of Hue’s most notable features is the meandering Perfume, or Huong, River, which divides the city. Because both the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda sit on its banks, a cruise along the river offers a relaxed way to explore. Instead of travelling by road, you will board a simple yet comfortable boat and enjoy a calmer alternative to a traditional Imperial Hue tour.

(4-hour Perfume River Cruise)

Emperors of Contrast, Tu Duc and Khai Dinh’s Tombs

The hills surrounding Hue feature the tombs of the Nguyen dynasty emperors. Rather than serving only as final resting places, the emperors designed these sites for leisure. Here, they could fish, hunt, and spend time with their concubines during later life. This tour therefore combines visits to two of the most contrasting tombs.

First, visit the tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, known for its traditional architecture and elegant setting. You will see paved walkways, quiet pavilions overlooking lotus ponds, and a small forest once used for hunting. Afterwards, continue to Khai Dinh’s Tomb, which offers a striking contrast. Khai Dinh earned the nickname “Puppet Emperor” due to his ties with the French. As a result, his tomb reflects colonial influence, with a dramatic glass mosaic frieze dominating the interior. Alternatively, it is also possible to cycle between the tombs.

(3.5-hour Perfume River Cruise)

Imperial Feast, Dinner Cruise

As evening falls, enjoy the calmer side of Hue while boarding a dragon-style platform boat for dinner. Gently cruising along the Perfume River, you will prepare for a relaxed and atmospheric meal. One of Hue’s emperors proved so indulgent that he refused to eat the same dish twice. Consequently, Hue’s chefs developed more than 2,000 dishes, many unique to the region. During the cruise, traditional music and song accompany your meal as you sample a selection of these dishes. Chefs prepare everything on board using small clay pots.

(2-hour Perfume River Cruise)

Royal Tombs with Lunch

Begin the day with a boat trip to Thien Mu Pagoda before continuing to the tomb of Minh Mang. Often less visited, this is perhaps the most majestic of Hue’s royal tombs. Built between 1841 and 1843, it is celebrated for its balanced blend of architecture and natural surroundings. Thanks to its peaceful setting, it also makes an ideal spot for a picnic lunch.

Later in the afternoon, continue with the Emperors of Contrast tour. This combines visits to the tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh for a fuller understanding of Hue’s imperial past.

(8-hour Perfume River Cruise)

What you’ll do

Cruise the Perfume River to reach key sights including the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda, offering a relaxed alternative to road travel.
Visit the contrasting royal tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh, showcasing traditional Nguyen dynasty design alongside colonial influences.
Enjoy an evening dinner cruise on a dragon-style boat, sampling classic Hue cuisine accompanied by traditional music.
Discover the tomb of Minh Mang, celebrated for its harmony with the surrounding landscape, combined with lunch and further imperial sites.