Perfume River Cruises

Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda

One of the most notable features of Hue is the meandering Perfume (Huong) River that divides the city. As both the Imperial Citadel and the Thien Mu Pagoda are situated on the river banks, boating on a simple, yet comfortable, vessel on a Perfume River cruise offers a relaxing alternative to the Imperial Hue tour.

(4 Hour Perfume River Cruise)

Emperors of Contrast (Tu Duc and Khai Dinh's Tombs)

The hills surrounding Hue are dotted with the tombs of the Nguyen dynasty emperors. Built not only as an eternal resting place, the tombs were designed for recreation; somewhere the Emperor could fish, hunt and enjoy the company of concubines in his twilight years. This tour combines visits to two of the most contrasting tombs. Visit first the tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, resplendent in traditional architecture, paved walkways, resting pavilions overlooking tranquil lotus ponds, and a small forest for hunting. In stark contrast, continue to Khai Dinh's Tomb. Remembered as the 'Puppet Emperor' because of his affiliation with the French, this tomb was designed with colonial flair, and a glass mosaic frieze dominates the interior. For the fit and willing, it is possible to cycle to the tombs.

(3.5 hour Perfume River Cruise)

Imperial Feast (Dinner Cruise)

Enjoy the calm of Hue by night as you prepare for dinner on-board a dragon-style platform boat, serenely cruising the Perfume River. One of Hue's ancient emperors was so indulgent that he refused to eat the same meal twice! As a result Hue's chefs can serve up over 2000 dishes - many of them unique to Hue. Traditional music and song will serenade you as you sample a variety of these; all created over small clay pots on-board.

(2 hour Perfume River Cruise)

Royal Tombs with lunch

Visit Thien Mu Pagoda by boat then continue on to the less visited and perhaps most majestic of all of Hue's tombs - the tomb of Minh Mang. Built between 1841 and 1843, this tomb is well known for its harmonious blend of architecture and natural landscape, and is the ideal location for a picnic lunch. Continue in the afternoon with Emperors of Contrasts combining visits to the tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh.

(8 hour Perfume River Crusie)