Travelogue from Vietnam: Hué – history, nature, and warm hospitality

Our travel specialist, Stefanie, is a seasoned explorer who has seen much of the world. In June 2025, it was Vietnam’s turn. But how do you decide what to highlight on a tour to Vietnam when your passport is already full of stamps? Stefanie found herself especially captivated by the imperial city of Hué, once the country’s ancient capital. Discover her experience in this beautiful city below.

We arrived at Hué railway station at 8am, having taken the overnight train from Hanoi. Our guide, Easy, was already waiting for us inside the station building with a sign and quickly whisked us off to a local spot where we could enjoy our first Bun Bo for breakfast.

Bun Bo typically consists of thinly sliced marinated and boiled beef shank, pieces of oxtail, and pork hock. Our version also featured a rich meat broth made with congealed blood.

Feeling full and satisfied, we boarded a boat on the Perfume River, heading towards the Thien Mu Pagoda. In autumn, orchid blossoms from the fruit gardens surrounding Hué drift down and settle on the river, giving the water a delicate, floral fragrance. It’s from this lovely scent that the river gets its name.

The seven-storey Thien Mu Pagoda is the landmark of Hué and is considered the tallest of its kind in Vietnam.

At 11 o’clock – after treating ourselves to a delicious ‘Iced Salted Vietnam Coffee’ at a truly delightful café – we set off for the ancient Imperial City (which is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site).

Here, you’ll find an immense citadel, palaces, temples, and imposing 21-metre-thick walls that were constructed in the 19th century. Surrounded by a moat, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past.

Everywhere, in front of the buildings and throughout the lush gardens, women beautifully dressed in traditional attire posed for photographs—a sight I particularly enjoyed.

The tranquil atmosphere and picturesque setting make Hué’s Imperial City a captivating place. The magnificent palaces, temples, and tombs all reflect the city’s grand past.

The blend of rich history, beautiful scenery, and the opportunity to meet the local people made Hué an unforgettable experience for me!

Afterwards, our journey continued towards Hoi An. We took a longer break by the Lang Co Lagoon, where we stretched our legs on the beach before continuing on over the Hai Van Pass—the natural border between northern and southern Vietnam—towards Hoi An.

Stefanie,

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller