Hue Citadel tour by authentic Train via Hai Van Pass from Da Nang

4.9 (662 reviews) Da Nang, Vietnam
Duration9h - 11h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 23 travelers
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Join this guided trip with our local experts to explore a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights of Hue.

Experience the uniquely scenic & local train with different picturesque landscape views on the way, especially the famous Hai Van Pass & enjoy the breathtaking views of the coastline.

Then, we admire the pristine white sand beach, crystal-clear waters at Lang Co Beach.

In Hue Imperial City, we'll tell you all fascinating historical stories & visit the unique architecture with the confluence of many cultures.

Be impressed by the well-preserved architectures from the last dynasty at Khai Dinh Emperor’s tomb.

Immerse yourself in a sense of tranquility and spiritual serenity of Thien Mu pagoda and Perfume river.

Moreover, you'll be full satisfied with delicious local food at lunch.

Don't forget to feel how enthusiastic & experienced our guides are as we always try best to bring the happiness, deliver great stories to our beloved travelers.

Options

Small group with entry tickets

Small group, maximum 18 people
16-seater van/ 29 seater bus
Entry Tickets Included: This option includes tickets to the Imperial City of Hue, Khai Dinh Tomb and Thien Mu Pagoda.
Pickup included

Big group with entry tickets

Big group, maximum 23 people
29-seater Bus/ coach
Entry tickets Included: This option includes tickets to the Imperial City of Hue, Khai Dinh Tomb and Thien Mu Pagoda.
Pickup included

Big group no entry tickets

Big group, maximum 23 pax
29-seater bus/ coach
Entry tickets not included: This option does not include pre-purchased tickets. Your guide can help you purchase tickets on-site.
Pickup included

Small group no entry tickets

Small group, maximum 18 people
16 seater van/29 seater bus
Entry tickets not included: This option does not include pre-purchased tickets. Your guide can help you purchase tickets on-site.
Pickup included

What's included

  • Lunch - Vietnamese Local Cuisine (vegetarian food available)
  • Entry/Admission- Hue Imperial City, Khai Dinh Tomb & Thien Mu Pagoda (if option selected)
  • Enthusiastic, experienced & professional English-speaking local guide
  • Air-Conditioned bus/coach with Safe Driver
  • Bottled water
  • A two-way hotel transfers pick up & drop off in Da Nang city center
  • A one-way Da Nang - Lang Co station in Hue by local and authentic train ticket
  • Tips for tour guide & driver
  • Surcharge in Vietnam public holidays (we'll inform you in advance via Whatsapp message)
  • Entry ticket to Khai Dinh tomb ( If you choose option" no entry tickets")
  • Entry ticket to Hue Imperial city ( If you choose option" no entry tickets")

What to expect

  1. Da Nang
    30m
    Thank you for coming to our fantastic Da Nang. Be ready for a 1-day memorable adventure with our local expert!

    6:00 am: We pick up the group in Da Nang city center to depart to Da Nang Train Station and start the journey exploring Hue city.
  2. 1h 30m · Admission ticket included
    At the Da Nang Train Station, you will get on our local train.
    Around 1.5 hours by train from Da Nang Train Station to Lang Co Train Station in Hue, you can enjoy a picturesque route along the coast of central Vietnam, offering stunning views of beaches, mountains, and countryside landscapes.

    This scenic route provides us with a unique and enjoyable way to experience the natural beauty of the region.

    Train travel can be more comfortable & relaxing compared to other modes of transportation. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey while the train takes us to the destination.

    Trains typically offer more legroom and seating space, allowing you to stretch out and unwind during the trip.
  3. Hai Van Pass
    1h · Admission ticket included
    On the train to Hue City, the first spectacular natural scene is Hai Van mountain pass which is one of the world's top ten most beautiful coastal roads in Viet Nam.

    The train travels through thick jungle as it winds its way around the coast with glimpses of secret beaches through the forest.

    When the train goes high enough, there are great views of the skyline across the Bay of Da Nang.

    Additionally, the pass is steeped in history, having been a strategic military location during the Vietnam War.

    Don't forget to listen many unique & interesting stories about it from our local expert.
  4. 10m
    After the exciting journey on the train, the driver will pick us up at Lang Co Train Station in Thua Thien Hue, then transfer to the destinations.
  5. Lang Co Beach
    15m
    You will also stop by the Lang Co area around 15 minutes, which features over 10 km of white sandy coastline and clear blue waters—a perfect spot to relax and take photos. Please note that this is only a viewpoint in Lang Co, not the beach itself. It is intended as a rest stop and restroom break after a long journey.
  6. Hue Imperial City (The Citadel)
    2h · Admission ticket included
    As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the citadel stands as a testament to the country's rich past, serving as the political and cultural heart of the Nguyen Dynasty. The architectural marvels within the complex, blending traditional Vietnamese design with French influences, offer a visual feast for us.

    Exploring the Forbidden Purple City, Royal Palace, and various temples provides you a deep insight into the royal life and traditions of Vietnam.

    The picturesque setting along the Perfume River, surrounded by verdant gardens and scenic landscapes, adds to the allure of this historical gem.

    With our local expert, your trip to Hue Imperial City will be a fascinating journey through time, providing insights into Vietnamese history, culture, and architectural splendor.
  7. The Noon Gate (Cua Ngo Mon)
    20m · Admission ticket included
    As the main entrance to the citadel, Noon Gate holds a special place in Vietnam's imperial history. It served as the gateway where the emperor's procession would pass through during important ceremonies and events.

    It's a huge U-shaped construction consisting of a brick and stone foundation and a wooden pavilion with terracotta tiles. The gate's imposing structure, with its distinctive red color and intricate design, symbolizes power and grandeur.

    Exploring Noon Gate allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship of traditional Vietnamese architecture and offers a glimpse into the royal rituals and traditions of the past.

    With our local experts, we'll show the best of what it can offer, ensuring that you'll have a good time with detailed insights into Vietnam's history, culture & people.
  8. Thai Hoa Palace
    20m · Admission ticket included
    As the central and most important building within the citadel, Thai Hoa Palace served as the official reception hall for the Nguyen emperors, where important ceremonies and royal events took place.

    The palace's impressive architecture, characterized by its traditional Vietnamese design, intricate wood carvings, and vibrant colors, exemplifies the grandeur and sophistication of the imperial court.

    Exploring Thai Hoa Palace means you'll step back in time and imagine the grand ceremonies and traditions held here.

    Inside, you can see ancient artifacts, royal items, and special decorations that reveal Vietnam's royal past.

    Additionally, the peaceful atmosphere of the palace grounds, with its beautiful gardens and calm ponds, creates a relaxing environment for you to enjoy the palace's beauty and historical importance.
  9. 20m · Admission ticket included
    Visit Kien Trung Palace (Điện Kiến Trung)
    Discover the newly restored Kien Trung Palace, once the residence and working place of Emperor Khai Dinh and Emperor Bao Dai. The palace features a unique blend of Vietnamese royal design and French colonial architecture, symbolizing the last phase of Nguyen Dynasty art and culture.
  10. Thien Mu Pagoda
    40m
    As one of the oldest and most iconic pagodas in Vietnam, Thien Mu Pagoda holds a special place in the country's religious heritage.

    The pagoda's seven-story octagonal tower, known as the Phuoc Duyen Tower, is a symbol of Hue and offers panoramic views of the Perfume River and surrounding countryside.

    Join us to explore the pagoda complex, which includes shrines, pavilions, and beautifully landscaped gardens, providing a peaceful retreat for meditation and contemplation.

    The pagoda's historical importance, tranquil ambiance, and architectural beauty make it a must-visit destination for those who seek to immerse themselves in Vietnamese culture and spirituality.

    We love to share stories about our culture, history and significance about this pagoda to give you a deeper appreciation and interesting knowledge of Hue's unique heritage.
  11. Tomb of Khai Dinh
    1h · Admission ticket included
    This elaborate mausoleum, built for Emperor Khai Dinh, showcases a fusion of traditional Vietnamese design elements with European influences, reflecting the emperor's affinity for Western culture.

    The tomb's opulent interior features colorful mosaics, detailed carvings, and ornate decorations, creating a visually stunning and culturally rich experience for us to admire.

    Exploring Khai Dinh Tomb allows you to delve into the history of the Nguyen Dynasty and gain insight into the life and legacy of Emperor Khai Dinh.

    The picturesque location of the tomb, nestled amidst scenic hills and lush greenery, adds to its allure and provides a tranquil setting for reflection and appreciation of the architectural marvels within.

    Afterwards, we'll leave Hue & get back to Da Nang city.

    Around 18:00: Our bus brings you back to hotel. Tour ends & see you soon in next trips with us!

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Ga Đà Nẵng, 791 Hải Phòng, Đà Nẵng

End point

Ga Đà Nẵng, 791 Hải Phòng, Đà Nẵng

Pickup details

- Please wait for us at the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the departure time.
- We'll pick up & drop off all travelers around Da Nang city center.
- If your hotel is located outside of our pick-up area, please come to our meeting point at 06:40 am: Da Nang train station, 791 Hải Phòng, Đà Nẵng

Additional information

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Children must be accompanied by at least an adult
  • In case if it has to be cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
  • Check the weather forecast (we also check & inform you) in advance to prepare weather-appropriate clothes
  • You'll receive a confirmation at the time of booking
  • Please provide us your WhatsApp or phone number for us to easily contact and confirm the pick-up time & location
  • Don't hesitate to ask us if you have any question about accessibility. For quick support, contact us 24/7.
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
  • In some cases, we cannot guarantee a window seat, as it depends on availability and the seat rotation policy of the train. However, we will do our best to book for you the best one we can.
  • Not recommended for children under 5 years old.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.9 (662)
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