Ngự Bình Mountain: A Majestic Landmark in Huế
Standing tall alongside the romantic Perfume River, about 4km south of the city center, Ngự Bình Mountain (also known as Ngự Mountain) serves as a majestic backdrop to the ancient capital of Huế. Often likened to a “screen,” this mountain has long guarded and protected the city while also attracting visitors with its majestic natural beauty and rich historical context.
The ideal time to conquer Ngự Bình Mountain is from May to September when the weather is pleasant and cool, with less rain. Upon reaching the summit, visitors are rewarded with a panoramic view of the dreamy city of Huế, including the meandering Perfume River, the moss-covered roofs of palaces and tombs, and peaceful villages.
Beyond its natural splendor, Ngự Bình Mountain is steeped in historical and cultural legends. Visitors can engage in thrilling activities such as mountain climbing, trekking, exploring mysterious cave systems, and visiting sacred temples and historical sites, all free of charge. Additionally, the mountain’s vicinity offers a chance to indulge in Huế’s specialty dishes at restaurants located at its foot.
Vọng Cảnh Hill: A Panoramic Vantage Point
Renowned as the “eyes of the ancient capital,” Vọng Cảnh Hill stands at an ideal height of 43 meters, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the poetic city of Huế without any entry fee. This spot is a must-include destination when exploring the land of the ancient capital.
Vọng Cảnh Hill captivates visitors with its harmonious blend of clouds, water, mountains, and trees. It is also famed for offering the best sunset view in Huế. As the day draws to a close, the vibrant orange hues of the setting sun blend seamlessly with the deep greens of the pine forest, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere.
A visit to Vọng Cảnh Hill immerses you not only in stunning natural scenery but also provides an opportunity to delve into the history and culture of the ancient capital. This site preserves numerous historical relics, including tombs of the Nguyễn dynasty kings and the Hòn Chén Temple.
Thủy Xuân Perfume Village: A Fragrant Journey
Located on Huyền Trân Công Chúa Street, about 7km southwest of the city center, Thủy Xuân Perfume Village has long been renowned for its traditional incense-making craft, adding a unique touch to the cultural allure of the dreamy city of Huế.
What captivates visitors the most about Thủy Xuân Perfume Village is the vibrant display of multicolored incense sticks in green, red, purple, and yellow, sun-drying under the sky. Beyond being a popular tourist attraction, the village has also become an ideal check-in spot for virtual living enthusiasts.
Additionally, visitors can actively participate in the incense-making process, crafting their own fragrant bundles without any additional cost. This hands-on experience is sure to be a memorable and unique highlight of your visit to Thủy Xuân Perfume Village.
Thiên Mụ Pagoda: A Spiritual Sanctuary
Perched atop Hà Khê Hill in Hương Long Ward, Huế City, Thiên Mụ Pagoda (also known as Linh Mụ Pagoda) is one of the most famous spiritual tourist destinations in Vietnam. This site enthralls visitors not only with its ancient and solemn beauty but also with its profound historical and cultural significance.
A visit to Thiên Mụ Pagoda offers a chance to delve into the unique architecture, history, culture, and Vietnamese Buddhism. Visitors can also participate in spiritual activities, seeking peace and blessings for themselves and their families.
Notably, Thiên Mụ Pagoda is a free tourist attraction, especially popular during the summer months. From here, visitors can take in the entire city of Huế and the dreamy Perfume River, creating a breathtakingly beautiful landscape painting.
Tràng Tiền Bridge: A Symbol of Huế’s Grace and Charm
Spanning the romantic Perfume River, Tràng Tiền Bridge (also known as Trường Tiền Bridge) is considered the most beautiful symbol of the ancient capital of Huế. It has been likened to a graceful Hue woman, gently reflecting on the clear waters of the Perfume River.
Tràng Tiền Bridge captivates with its elegant design, inspired by French Gothic architecture. It features six steel truss spans, each with a span of 67 meters. The bridge stretches to a length of 402.6 meters and a width of 6 meters, serving as both an important transportation link and a popular tourist attraction.
A stroll across Tràng Tiền Bridge offers a chance to soak in the serene atmosphere of the ancient capital while admiring the picturesque Perfume River. Additionally, the bridge has become an ideal check-in spot for photography enthusiasts, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable snapshots without any cost.
Rú Chá Forest: A Pristine Natural Escape
Just 15km from the city center, Rú Chá Forest entices visitors with its pristine and mysterious beauty, coupled with its distinction as the only remaining primary mangrove forest within the Tam Giang lagoon system – the largest lagoon in Southeast Asia.
What sets Rú Chá Forest apart is the opportunity it offers to immerse yourself in the fresh air and capture mesmerizing “virtual living” moments amid the wild and majestic natural scenery, all free of charge.
