How to Travel to Hue City: Essential Guide & Sustainable Tours

Journey to Hue’s Imperial Heart Efficiently

Hue City, Vietnam’s historical gem, captivates over 2 million visitors annually with its UNESCO-listed Imperial City, majestic Huong River, and ancient pagodas. Situated in central Vietnam, Hue’s Phu Hoa and Phu Hoi Wards, featuring the iconic Truong Tien Bridge, are just 1 km from the imperial citadel. Knowing how to travel to Hue City ensures smooth arrival for exploring palaces, markets, and landscapes, with transportation costs $15–$80 (375,000–2,000,000 VND). Essential for efficient planners, history enthusiasts, and eco-conscious travelers, Hue is a must-visit destination.

Hue’s temperate climate (dry season: November–April, 18–28°C or 64.4–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 24–34°C or 75.2–93.2°F) influences travel choices, supported by sustainable initiatives like eco-transports and green paths, aligning with Hue’s “Green City” vision. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism with over 17 years of experience, offers eco-friendly tours starting from arrival. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your eco-adventure!

Administrative Note

Since 2024, Hue City is a centrally governed city, with the district level abolished in the second half of 2025. Former districts like Phu Xuan are now wards under Hue City’s administration. Travel routes to wards like Phu Hoa are straightforward, simplifying navigation with ward-based maps.

Legend Travel Group, a pioneer in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, crafts eco-friendly tours in Hue City for travelers seeking authentic cultural and natural experiences. Our low-impact tours use electric vehicles or bicycles, guided by English-speaking experts sharing how to travel to Hue City, historical insights, and green practices. Supporting local communities, we align with Hue’s sustainability goals. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless experience. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore Hue responsibly!

Arrive in Hue Conveniently and Sustainably

How to travel to Hue City involves multiple options from air to land, with Phu Bai Airport as the gateway (15 km from Phu Hoa Ward). Choose based on budget, time, and eco-preference. Here’s a guide based on 2025 transportation data:

• By Air (Fastest Option):
  • Flights: From Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Bai (1–1.5 hours, $30–$80 or 750,000–2,000,000 VND); carriers like Vietnam Airlines, VietJet.
  • Airport Transfer: Private car $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND, 20 minutes); Xanh SM taxi $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND); bus $2 (50,000 VND, 30 minutes).
  • Tip: Book early for deals; eco-electric taxis.
• By Train (Scenic Route):
  • Reunification Express: From Hanoi (12–14 hours, $20–$40 or 500,000–1,000,000 VND) or Ho Chi Minh City (18–22 hours, $30–$60 or 750,000–1,500,000 VND) to Hue Station (2 km from Phu Hoa Ward).
  • Classes: Soft seat/sleeper; views of coast/mountains.
  • Tip: Night trains save time; eco-low carbon.
• By Bus (Budget Option):
  • From Hanoi (12–14 hours, $15–$25 or 375,000–625,000 VND) or Ho Chi Minh City (20–24 hours, $20–$35 or 500,000–875,000 VND) to central bus station (4 km from Phu Hoa Ward).
  • Companies: Hoang Long, Mai Linh; sleeper buses comfortable.
  • Tip: Overnight for savings; eco-shared ride.
• By Private Car (Flexible Option):
  • From Da Nang (2 hours, $40–$60 or 1,000,000–1,500,000 VND); scenic Hai Van Pass.
  • Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group for eco-vehicles; group share to reduce cost.
• Local & Alternative Travel:
  • Bicycle/Motorbike: Rent in Phu Hoa Ward ($2–$10/day or 50,000–250,000 VND) for short trips.
  • Tip: Eco-bikes; apps like Grab for rides ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).
• Practical Advice:
  • Visas: e-Visa ($25 or 625,000 VND, 30 days); on arrival for some.
  • Cost Summary: Air most expensive but fastest; bus cheapest.
  • For Legend Travel Group tours, we arrange sustainable arrivals.

Note: Routes from 2025 data like Vietnam Railways; dry season best for travel. Legend Travel Group tours include transfer options.

These eco-friendly activities, costing $0–$10, start your trip:

1. Explore the Imperial City

Tour the UNESCO-listed Imperial City in Phu Hoa Ward, best at 8:00 AM, for $5 (125,000 VND).

• Cost: $5; free for children under 1.3m.
• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:30 PM.
• Eco-Friendly Note: Walk to reduce emissions.
• Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Hue Heritage Tour ($60–$90).

2. Cruise the Huong River

Board a dragon boat at Truong Tien Bridge’s Phu Hoi dock, best at 6:00 PM, for $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Cost: $5–$10.
• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–9:00 PM.
• Eco-Friendly Note: Low-emission boats.
• Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Hue River Eco-Tour ($70–$100).

3. Shop at Dong Ba Market

Visit Dong Ba Market in Phu Hoi Ward, best at 9:00 AM, spending $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND) on snacks.

• Cost: Free entry; items $1–$5.
• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–8:00 PM.
• Eco-Friendly Note: Biodegradable packaging.
• Tip: Bargain locally.

4. Cycle to Thien Mu Pagoda

Rent a bike ($2–$4/day or 50,000–100,000 VND) in Phu Hoa Ward, best at 8:00 AM, to Thien Mu Pagoda in Kim Long Ward (free).

• Cost: $2–$4; pagoda free.
• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
• Eco-Friendly Note: Zero-emission cycling.
• Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Hue Cycling Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

5. Savor Hue Street Food

Enjoy bún bò Huế at stalls near Phu Hoi Ward, best at 6:00 PM, for $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Cost: $1–$3.
• Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.
• Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable utensils.
• Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Hue Foodie Tour ($40–$60).

The best time to visit Hue City is November to April (dry season) for sunny days and comfortable exploration. Avoid May to October (rainy) for heavy rains, though cheaper. Tet in January/February adds festivals but crowds. Shoulder months like October or May offer balance.

Hue City, with Phu Bai Airport 15 km from Phu Hoa Ward, is accessible via:

• By Air: Fly to Phu Bai from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City ($30–$80 or 750,000–2,000,000 VND, 1–1.5 hours). Airport to city: private car $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND, 20 minutes) or Xanh SM taxi $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND).
• By Train: Reunification Express from Hanoi (12–14 hours, $20–$40 or 500,000–1,000,000 VND) or Ho Chi Minh City (18–22 hours, $30–$60 or 750,000–1,500,000 VND) to Hue Station, 2 km from Phu Hoa Ward.
• By Bus: From Hanoi (12–14 hours, $15–$25 or 375,000–625,000 VND) or Ho Chi Minh City (20–24 hours, $20–$35 or 500,000–875,000 VND) to Hue’s central bus station, 4 km from Phu Hoa Ward.
• By Private Car: From Da Nang (2 hours, $40–$60 or 1,000,000–1,500,000 VND). Book via Legend Travel Group.
• By Bicycle (Local): Rent in Phu Hoa Ward ($2–$4/day) for short trips. Navigation Tip: Save “Imperial City, Phu Hoa, Hue City” in offline maps (Maps.me). Parking: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
• Eco-Friendly Note: Xanh SM taxis or bicycles minimize emissions.
• Travel Tip: Train for scenery.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:

• Clothing: Light layers, comfortable shoes; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season; hat for sun.
• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses.
• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).
• Tech Gear: Smartphone with apps, offline maps, portable charger ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND); Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).
• Documents: Passport, visa copies; money belt ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for market buys ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.
• Extras: Snacks; passport.
  Tip: Light luggage for trains.

Costs for How to Travel to Hue City & Visiting

Transportation Costs

• Flight: $30–$80 (750,000–2,000,000 VND).
• Train: $20–$60 (500,000–1,500,000 VND).
• Bus: $15–$35 (375,000–875,000 VND).
• Private Car: $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND).
• Airport Transfer: $8–$15 (200,000–375,000 VND).
• Local Bike: $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).

Entry and Activity Fees

• Imperial City: $5 (125,000 VND).
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Free.
• Dong Ba Market Items: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
• Street Food: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
• Dragon Boat Ride: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
• Bicycle Rental: $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).
• Local Drinks: $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).
• Souvenirs: $2–$7 (50,000–175,000 VND).
• Guided Eco-Tour: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person, Post-Arrival)

• Budget: $10–$20 (bus, street food, bike rental).
• Mid-range: $30–$50 (taxi, dragon boat, guided tour).
• Luxury: $80–$120 (private car, premium tour, market buys).
  Tip: Budget for transport ($15–$80) and activities ($1–$10); eco-tours include transfers.

• Air: Fast; book low-cost carriers.
• Train: Scenic; sleeper for comfort.
• Bus: Cheap; overnight saves time.
• Car: Flexible; share for eco.
• Sustainability: Train/bus low-carbon.
• Navigation: Apps for routes in wards.
• Weather: Dry for smooth; rainy delays.
• Legend Tours: Arrival assistance.

Our eco-friendly tours start upon arrival in Hue:

• Hue Heritage Tour ($60–$90/person, 1 day): Private car to Imperial City, dragon boat ride, Dong Ba Market, with lunch ($2–$5). Includes guide, travel tips.
• Hue River Eco-Tour ($70–$100/person, 1 day): Dragon boat cruise, Thien Mu Pagoda, Truong Tien Bridge walk, eco-lunch. Includes guide, arrival advice.
• Hue & Hoi An Explorer ($200–$350/person, 3 days): Hue sites, Hoi An’s town, with homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book via links!

Hue City, with its imperial citadel and options like flights to Phu Bai Airport ($30–$80 or 750,000–2,000,000 VND) or Reunification Express train ($20–$60 or 500,000–1,500,000 VND), welcomes over 2 million visitors yearly. How to travel to Hue City—from buses ($15–$35 or 375,000–875,000 VND) to private cars—ensures accessible entry to Hue’s heritage. Choosing sustainable routes like trains enhances your journey. Legend Travel Group’s Hue Tours offer eco-friendly, travel-guided experiences in Hue, blending green practices with local support. Whether arriving by air or rail, Hue City promises an enriching, well-connected adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-journey today!
Ready to learn how to travel to Hue City? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on a seamless, imperial adventure!

By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group