The 23 best castles in and around Hue

An absolutely stunning and unique imperial tomb. The mix of Vietnamese and French architectural styles is unlike anything else in Hue, with dark stone exteriors leading to an explosion of colour inside. The interior is covered in intricate glass and porcelain mosaics, and the level of craftsmanship is incredible. The climb up the steps is worth it for the detail and atmosphere. A must-see if you’re exploring Hue’s imperial history.

This site is very impressive with detailed architecture that mixes Vietnamese and French styles. The mosaics inside are beautiful and worth seeing. However, it is quite crowded with many tourists, and the area is not very large, so the visit can feel a bit short compared to other tombs in Hue. I visited using a combo ticket that included several sites, which made it better value for money. Overall, it’s an interesting place to see, especially if you enjoy history and architecture, but don’t expect a quiet experience.

What an incredible visit to the Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh! I traveled here with a group, and we were all truly impressed. The tomb itself is a masterpiece, blending Eastern and Western architecture in a way I've never seen before. The details are stunning—from the grand dragon staircase (as seen in our photos!) to the intricate mosaics inside. Beyond the amazing structure, the atmosphere is very special, and the views of the surrounding hills and nature are just beautiful. It was a memorable and wonderful experience for our entire group. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Vietnam!

Nice to walk around. Inside the building is beautiful and well worth a visit. Also a beautiful view of the mountain. Just be warned there are 127 steps to the top! The statues were also very cool to see. Easy to get a taxi there and back from the centre of town. 150k entry per adult, worth getting the combo ticket at the citadel if you are visiting multiple tombs. Very busy at 3pm!

This extremely ornate mausoleum is a must see. It exemplifies the influence of Chinese style dynasties as the influence the French has in the style of objects preserved with former rulers. This one has a lot of stairs, so make sure to wear something comfortable and beware of the hot season.

Really lovely palace. There aren't many information plaques so maybe the audioguide would be better for those wanting to know the history of the place. It's not very big and will only take 30-45 minutes (without an audioguide). There isn't too much shade so make sure to bring a hat on sunny days.

The mausoleum was pretty impressive with fantastically detailed decoration. A slightly over-long video with English subtitles gives useful background on this and other notable historic complexes in the area, so worth a watch if your eyes don't glaze over or your brain melts with the plethora of phonetically challenging characters. Seen on a very wet day.

Peaceful and Majestic The Tomb of Minh Mạng is one of the most impressive royal tombs in Huế. The architecture is stunning — perfectly symmetrical, with beautiful pavilions, lotus ponds, and quiet paths surrounded by nature. It feels peaceful and grand at the same time. A great place to learn about history and enjoy a calm, scenic walk. Definitely worth including on your Huế itinerary!

This mausoleum is very spacious, with beautiful gardens, lakes, and traditional architecture. It feels more peaceful compared to some of the other tombs, and walking around gives you a good sense of history and nature combined. I visited on a day with pleasant weather and only light, short rain, which made the experience enjoyable and refreshing. The site is quite large, so be prepared to walk a bit, but the scenery is worth it. I used a combo ticket that included several sites in Hue, which made the visit good value. Overall, it’s a nice balance of culture, history, and nature – definitely worth including in your trip to Hue.

Absolutely beautiful and breath-taking. Every area was like stepping back into history. I paid for the audio tour guide but I don't think it was very worth it cuz it just had some description of the place, not much about the usage or purpose of that area. It was raining a bit so there was no other visitors there, soooo nice.

Unfortunately, our visit here was a real disappointment. It’s not hard to imagine (but we could only imagine) how this might be a lovely place to visit but within a five minute walk from the entrance all else was blocked from further view as all paths leading deeper in to the mausoleum’s premises were blocked by construction, and even near the entrance, little effort seemed to have been made to preserve what should be the serenity and beauty of the place. We strongly feel that this mausoleum should be closed to the public until construction and dredging are complete, or that the entrance fee should either be waived or drastically reduced.

A stunning and peaceful site, beautifully set among lakes, gardens, and pine trees. The symmetry of the layout is impressive, and every gate, bridge, and pavilion feels perfectly placed. Built in 1843, the tomb reflects Emperor Minh Mang’s vision of harmony between architecture and nature. It’s a relaxing place to walk around, with plenty of shade and photo spots. Definitely one of Hue’s most scenic imperial tombs and well worth visiting.

Rented a bike and drive here. Near a beautiful lake and surrounded by water. It makes for a nice walk around. We came mid afternoon on a super hot day so needed to grab some drinks at the entrance and again on the exit. There is toilets and drinks and some food options here. We came on a week day. You pay to park a scooter but they don’t seem to charge locals but price is small. Not as big as we were led to believe but worth visiting.

A Tranquil and Majestic Historical Site

The Minh Mạng Tomb is a magnificent testament to the grandeur of the Nguyễn Dynasty. Set amidst lush greenery and serene lakes, the tomb offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The architecture is both grand and harmonious, with beautifully crafted pavilions, temples, and bridges that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The site is meticulously maintained, and the pathways are perfect for a leisurely stroll. The historical significance of the tomb, combined with its stunning beauty, makes it a must-visit destination in Huế. The staff are courteous and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall experience with their insights. Highly recommended for anyone interested in Vietnamese history and culture.

If you're taking a Grab, it seems like the drop-off point is set too far. So you can just stop near the new bridge, which will open on March 26, 2025. On the map, Grab directs you all the way to the end, which is a very quiet area with only two or three tofu stalls, where vendors aggressively offer you tofu. A bowl of tofu is only 10k VND, and it's actually quite good—just like a typical local experience. So you should give it a try!

Took a ~25 minutes boat ride for VND150K per pax. Nothing amazing, views were mehhh. Could be skipped.

The Perfume River runs gracefully through Hue, adding charm to the city with its calm flow and romantic scenery. A boat ride at sunset is unforgettable, with the golden light reflecting on the water. I enjoyed every moment and will highly recommend my friends to experience this magical river.

Great River and site to visit in Hue. We took a night boat to listen to the palace music show. It was great and price is not expensive. Highly recommend!

It’s really nice for a journey along the water. The people selling boat rides WILL rip you off. A 200k ride for an hour quickly became 200k per person. Then our 1 hour ride was over in 15 minutes. Look it’s not expensive, I just didn’t appreciate being ripped off.

A peaceful place to admire the amazing skyline of Hue. It is ideal for a stroll along the riverbank and the park nearby. It was pity that we couldn't enjoy Hue folk song performances due to bad weather.

An amazing river at Hue This is the best nice river flow through the a city in Viet Nam. Its name "Sông Hương" meaning Perfume river. Once upon a time, the Nguyen empire choose this city because the river and the sight so harmony with nature. If you come to Hue. Take a dragon boat cruise along the river. Visit Thien Mu pagoda and tomb of the king. The boats and the river gives you an insight into the fisher families and Hue culture. Have a nice trip.

Not sure how the reviewers got the inside videos but they are forbidden. The throne hall has been restored to its former glory.

The Thai Hoa Palace is the largest, most majestic, and magnificent building left from the Nguyen Dynasty. Besides being the place for state ceremonies, it also symbolized power and harmony, showing the Nguyen emperors’ philosophy of how to rule. As a part of the Complex of Hue Monuments, Thai Hoa Palace was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site on December 11, 1993. This palace doesn't just hold historical value; it's an important cultural symbol that attracts visitors from all over Vietnam and the world to admire its unique royal architecture and the rich legacy of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Amazing - very impressive. This is the palace area designed for the emperor to receive visitors, to impress with ornate detailing and gold splashed throughout.

The palace is a massive building and will take you 3 hours to see everything. Take your time, we started at 10:00 AM and ended at 1:30 PM. Loved everything. We were exhausted at the end.

the Imperial City of Hue established in 1802 is one of the hugest old complex that counts numerous beautiful buildings, the Palace of Harmony is one of them. It will take 2 hours to visit the whole site depending on how fast you walk and how quick you are as visitor.

Travelled about 2.5 hours from Danang to visit this Palace, within the Hue Imperial Citadel, after a great lunch and returned to Danang thereafter.

Very beautiful palace, very interesting architecture, very colorful! There are some exhibition inside, but not many. Interior is very beautiful.

Great places to know about royal family, many great antique. DM me if you want to know about good local food of Hue and accommodation.

The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing artifacts from the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945), Vietnam's last feudal dynasty. It holds a collection of nearly 10,000 antiquities that offer a glimpse into the daily life, rituals, and artistic talents of the royal court.

It's a small but interesting museum exhibition. The interior of the building is very beautiful. Price 50.000 dong

An quick stop here after the visit to the Citadel. Small entry fee of 50k VND. Good respite from the downpour.

This museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts from the Nguyen Dynasty, including royal costumes, ceramics, and treasures. The exhibits are well presented and give insight into the grandeur of Vietnam’s royal past. I found it educational and beautiful, and I will surely recommend my friends to visit here.

The Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities (Bảo tàng Cổ vật Cung đình) is a fascinating journey into Vietnam’s royal past. Located in Hue, the former imperial capital, this museum is housed in a traditional wooden structure, reflecting the architectural beauty of the Nguyen Dynasty. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by an impressive collection of artifacts, each offering a glimpse into the rich history and refined culture of the Vietnamese royalty. The museum’s exhibits include intricately crafted ceramics, ornate clothing, and ceremonial items used by the Nguyen emperors. One highlight is the collection of imperial seals and personal belongings, which convey the power and elegance of the imperial court. The presentation is tasteful and respectful, with detailed descriptions (in both Vietnamese and English), making it easy to appreciate the cultural significance of each item. The serene, well-maintained garden surrounding the museum adds to the experience, providing a peaceful place for reflection after the tour. The museum staff are knowledgeable and happy to answer questions, enhancing the educational experience. Overall, the Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities is a must-visit for anyone interested in Vietnamese history and heritage. This museum offers a 5/5 star experience, skillfully blending education, history, and beauty into an unforgettable visit in Hue.

A must-see museum, in my opinion, especially if you visit the imperial ckty because it is just next to it. It is not big, but it contains many marvelous artifacts. Ancient imperial thrones, bronze urns, delicate sophisticated decorations, and even nany old cannons in the courtyard garden. You need to take off your shoes to enter inside as this is considered like some sort of shrine. It takes a maximum of 30 minutes to see everything, and you can get here and from here with taxi/grab as it is on an accessible street.

lovely palace! It it a masterpiece of Indochinese architecture presenting as the beauty of time. Hue vibrant over its rich history.

An Định Palace has stunning architecture and beautiful painted ceilings. However, when I went, there were many Vietnamese girls dressed in silk dresses taking photos everywhere. They took up a lot of space, making it hard to move around freely. It’s still worth a visit for the architecture and photos, but be prepared for crowds.

Beautiful old french style house of King Khai Dinh’s family, lots of people come here to take beautiful pictures.

This palace is stunning and very well-maintained. The tourist guiding could use a lot of work, though. There’s a real lack of signage or explanations, even for basic stuff, and they could offer so much more to enhance the experience.

Selfie paradise. Off the tourist path however you need to dodge all the original photos happening here. The building still needs quite a bit of restoration. Part of the building was not available to the public

An Dinh Palace is a stunning architectural masterpiece located in Hue, Vietnam, that stands as a remarkable testament to the final years of the Nguyen Dynasty. It is a must-see for visitors interested in a unique blend of Eastern and Western design, as well as the personal history of Vietnam's last two emperors

A hidden gem. Yes they are in the process of restoration and yet to be able to walk around the house and gardens is worth while. It's only 100k for a couple but well worth it. Not really on the main tourist trail but time permitting with a visit.

This site is very large and impressive, with beautiful gates, walls, and palaces that really give a sense of the history of the Nguyễn dynasty. Walking around feels like stepping back in time, and there is a lot to explore. Although there are many visitors, the area is so big that it never felt overcrowded. I enjoyed having the space to walk freely and take photos without too much disturbance. Overall, it was a wonderful visit – definitely one of the highlights of Hue and well worth including in a combo ticket for the historical sites.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A must-visit historical site in Huế! The Imperial City is grand and full of history — ancient architecture, beautiful gardens, and peaceful courtyards. You can easily spend hours exploring. Best to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Truly impressive! 🌿🏯✨

What a beautiful place, full of history and nice buildings. One of them stands out on pictures. Tickets cost 200k for entrance fee. You will easily spend 2h minimum there. We decided to rent an electric bike for 90 min, so we could go around more easily without being too tired. It was worth it. I think it would have been better to go with a tour to understand the whole history and background behind the imperial city. So much to learn. Anyways, worth it!

We visited the Hue Imperial Palace as part of a shore excursion from our cruise ship, and it ended up being one of the highlights of the day. The palace complex offers a fascinating look into Vietnam’s royal history, with impressive architecture, decorative gates, and peaceful courtyards that are great for exploring and taking photos. Many areas have been thoughtfully restored and look beautiful, giving a good sense of how grand the palace once was. Some sections, however, are still under renovation or show visible wear, which slightly affects the overall experience. More detailed signage or explanations inside certain buildings would also help visitors understand the historical context better. The grounds are quite large, so comfortable shoes and water are essential, especially on hot days. The layout is easy to navigate, and there are shaded spots to rest along the way. Overall, the Hue Imperial Palace is a meaningful and memorable place to visit, especially if you are coming from a cruise tour and have limited time. It is rich in history, visually interesting, and absolutely worth seeing. With a bit more restoration and improved informational displays, it could easily be a five-star attraction.

Wonderful place reflecting the Hue Dynasty of Kings. This was covered in our day tour of Hue city. Fascinated by the facts tour guide, Ryan of venus travels, shared with us. Portions are being rebuilt. On the way to Hue, we passed a wonderful bridge and an incense village. there is a lot of history to cover here, it was very very hot, so be prepared with sunglasses, hats, umbrellas, water..visited Hue imperial city – the palace of 13 Nguyen Kings with Ngo Mon Gate, Library, Thai Hoa Palace, Nine Dynastic Urns, etc.

Last visited 3 years ago and some buildings were under restoration, now able to enter and definitely worth seeing, Hue's main attraction and rightly so, recommend getting a multi site ticket for the Emperor tombs as well which can be used for 2 days

It reminds me of my childhood when I first visited this place with my family. It was very peaceful and beautiful. A lot of walking which was also fun but we also rented a golf cart with someone driving us around. It’s amazing that we get to look into the past, how the royals of the Nguyen Dynasty lived.

Was really nice to be able to walk the walls of the citadel and the information panels along the way added all the relevant info. You could get an idea of how important the defences were in times gone by. Shame you couldn't get to upper levels in the towers. Take time to have a walk if you're in the area.

Go between June and August for better weather. Still, such a great day trip from Da Nang with its rich history and passionate restoration work. You will see some Vietnamese locals dressed up in traditional wear taking photos, making the experience even more surreal.

Beautiful location and truly special from a historic standpoint. Well worth a visit. Stunning location steeped in history for the emperor and family with great photos and art. A lovely location surrounded by moats and water but leaving a relaxed sense as you walk through the halls and grounds. Truly stunning and well worth visiting.

Must visit. If you’re visiting Hue, plan to visit Citadel along with the tombs. Do a 2 days tour and don’t rush. Guided tours will offer more. Excellent capital city. Rich history and great architecture. You’ll be satisfied with the experience.

Hue Imperial City was built in 1804 under King Gia Long and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. I love walking around the ancient palace and admire the beauty at every corner. Hundred years ago, it used to a enormous and glorious palace. Sadly, many constructions are damaged, though they are being restored, could not bring back the original spirit of the place. The atmosphere was quite sad in a rainy day.

Come to the palace for a photo op, especially in traditional costumes. It's not a particularly interesting place for a casual tour, but it's beautiful in its details. If you're visiting on a sunny day, be sure to bring an umbrella, as there's very little shade.

Overall, it was a solid experience, though I expected a bit more. The complex is huge, but the overall layout could be better organized. I didn’t take the audio guide because I don’t like using headphones — probably a mistake. The descriptions of the monuments were quite minimal and not very engaging. I also chose a bad day to visit since it was extremely hot.

Expensive (24$ for two people) and not particularly interesting. There were portraits of people on the walls of one of the covered walkways, which was pleasant.

Treat for an emperor ! Needs a little restauration though ! COVID must have slowed things down. There are spots to sit and relax as this site is quite elaborate. If rainy watch out for the walkway tiles as they get slippery so shoe accordingly !

Residence of the emperor’s grandmother. The inter rooms are not outstanding, but the gardens are really really lovely.

Queens residence with lovely tile chip decorations and phoenix rooftop ornaments

Incredible architecture well worth the money just be aware there a lot of walking so best to plan around the heat

Get ready for a $6.50 taxi ride just to leave once inside. They know that with the heat, they can charge the elderly a lot. This place is overpriced and a tourist trap. Terrible customer service. Charge and don't even let you know that half the buildings are under construction or maintenance. Maybe, for the Vietnam version, it's an okay place. But compared to any civilized part of the world, aka Korea, China, Japan, this place is a money pit. It's not worth any value. Sad looking run down place. It's good for a few pictures and not worth time spent actually going in. Also, the taxi ride was not only overpriced but a terrible driver lady we felt like going to be thrown from the open air car with no doors.

Cung Dien Tho This was rhetoric residence and audience hall of the Queen mother of the Nguyen dynasty. Now partially rebuild, it is only place where we can see the opulent life style of the emperors family.

Nice Palace which combines different styles and influences. It was the House of the last Emperor of the Nguyen family. Destroyed by the Vietminh during the war, it has been entirely renovated and therefore it has lost a bit of the charm of buildings which conserve the marks of time on their walls. It is slightly kitsch as compared to more authentic buildings and tombs which can be visited in the Hue.

Worth taking time to visit this magnificent palace. The palace has been restored to its glorious condition. The decorative motif is superb!

If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to step straight into a Vietnamese imperial fairy tale — complete with dragons, gold leaf, and an abundance of photo ops — Kien Trung Palace is the place. The exterior alone is jaw-dropping. The intricate mosaics, vibrant colors, and dragon sculptures are so detailed that you’ll start to wonder if the artisans had magnifying glasses for eyes. Walking inside, it only gets better: golden trim, lush wall patterns, and chairs so ornate you almost feel bad sitting on them (don’t worry, they’re mostly for display). The art gallery upstairs was a fantastic surprise — modern and traditional interpretations of dragons, qilin, and imperial symbols blend beautifully. It’s like stepping through time, except with air-conditioning. My personal favorite was a painting of a stone dragon lit up like it was ready to leap out of the frame. Pro tip: bring a camera and an extra SD card. You’ll need it. Also, be prepared to say “wow” so many times that people might think you’re part of the tour guide staff. Overall, Kien Trung Palace is a must-see in Hue. It’s a gorgeous mix of history and artistry that’ll leave you feeling like you just visited the set of an epic Asian period drama — minus the sword fights. 🐉

The palace of the thirteen emperor. The palace is six hundred by six hundred meters big. The last palace you will see alot of French influence on the building design because the emperor study in France before he became the emperor.

The upper floor of the palace had a temporary art exhibit. Ground floor has a couple of gorgeous rooms, a snack bar and patio, with a gift shop.

In my opinion, not the most beautiful part of the Imperial Citadel. It is clear that the whole building has been renovated after the War and it lacks true authenticity. It is still worth the visit.

Perfect Fusion of east and west architecture! Wonderful restoration compared to what we saw nine years ago.

Lovely well restored place to visit.

Great

Well preserved but empty of exhibits

Very well maintained

Nice

Good

Beautiful

This used to be the palace where the king worked. Only the original foundation remains, the new palace is the replica built recently. The palace was demolished by the Vietminh in 1947 (the first Indochina war) to prepare for the war with the French when the French came back to regain the power. This palace is located between the Forbidden City (the King's residence) and the Royal Court

Good

The palace had once been a cultural and administrative center of Vietnam . But It was completely destroyed by the war. Hopelully It will be rebuilt as It was before.

Nice

Nothing special

(Translated by Google) CAN CHANH PALACE – HISTORICAL IMPRESSION IN THE HEART OF THE FORBIDDEN CITY OF HUE In the heart of the Imperial City of Hue, behind the majestic Thai Hoa Palace is Can Chanh Palace – which used to be the main hall for the daily work of the Nguyen Dynasty kings. Although the building now only has its foundation and is in the process of restoration, the historical value and architectural imprint of the palace still make it a meaningful stop for those who love Hue and Vietnamese royal culture. 🏛 Central role of the royal court Can Chanh Palace was built in 1804, right after the capital Phu Xuan was chosen as the capital under the Gia Long Dynasty. This was where the king held daily court meetings, discussed state affairs with his ministers, received envoys, organized royal examinations and important ceremonies in the inner palace. The name “Can Chanh” means to encourage the ruler to be “diligent and upright” – in line with the spirit of governing the country and Confucian ethics of feudal times. 🏯 Unique and distinctive ancient architecture Can Chanh Palace was once the largest and most beautiful wooden structure in the Forbidden City, with a “double-roofed” structure (2-storey roof), with a yellow glazed tile roof, elaborately carved lim columns, especially the extremely vivid dragon – unicorn – turtle – phoenix decoration system. This is also one of the few structures in the Imperial City connected to other palaces by a system of royal corridors, demonstrating the close connection in the living and working space of the Nguyen Dynasty kings. 🏗️ Current status and restoration process Due to war and time, the palace was severely damaged and completely dismantled in 1947, now only the brick foundation, steps, and some ancient vestiges remain. However, the good news is that the palace is being restored, starting in 2023, with the support of the Korean government and relic restoration experts. The project is expected to restore almost the original architecture of the ancient palace, expected to be completed around 2027, marking the revival of a precious heritage. 📍 Experience when visiting Visitors can now visit the palace grounds and view information panels and 3D reconstruction drawings to better visualize the scale and beauty of the ancient building. This area is often less crowded than Thai Hoa Palace, creating a quieter and more solemn feeling. If you love history, don't forget to spend time reading the documents in this area - you will see a part of the "backstage" of the Nguyen Dynasty's power. 🔖 Summary: Can Chanh Palace is the administrative heart of Hue Imperial City, where the major decisions of the Nguyen Dynasty were recorded for more than a century. Although it has not been fully restored yet, the ancient foundation and the information on display are enough to make this place a must-see attraction for history lovers and the ancient capital's heritage. ⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 (Waiting for the day of complete reconstruction to return to its worthy position in the Hue Imperial City) (Original) ĐIỆN CẦN CHÁNH – DẤU ẤN LỊCH SỬ TRONG LÒNG TỬ CẤM THÀNH HUẾ Giữa lòng Đại Nội Huế, sau Điện Thái Hòa uy nghi là Điện Cần Chánh – nơi từng là chính điện làm việc hàng ngày của các vua triều Nguyễn. Dù hiện nay công trình chỉ còn nền móng và đang trong quá trình phục dựng, nhưng giá trị lịch sử và dấu ấn kiến trúc của điện vẫn khiến nơi đây trở thành điểm dừng chân đầy ý nghĩa cho những ai yêu Huế và văn hóa cung đình Việt Nam. 🏛 Vai trò trung tâm của triều chính Điện Cần Chánh được xây dựng từ năm 1804, ngay sau khi kinh đô Phú Xuân được chọn làm thủ đô dưới triều Gia Long. Đây chính là nơi vua thiết triều thường nhật, bàn việc chính sự với các đại thần, tiếp đón sứ thần, tổ chức các kỳ thi đình và các nghi lễ quan trọng trong nội cung. Tên gọi “Cần Chánh” mang ý nghĩa khuyến khích người trị vì phải “siêng năng và ngay thẳng” – đúng với tinh thần trị quốc và đạo lý Nho giáo thời phong kiến. 🏯 Kiến trúc cổ độc đáo và đặc sắc Điện Cần Chánh từng là một công trình bằng gỗ lớn và đẹp bậc nhất trong Tử Cấm Thành, có kết cấu “trùng thiềm điệp ốc” (2 tầng mái), với mái ngói hoàng lưu ly, các cột lim được chạm khắc tinh xảo, đặc biệt là hệ thống trang trí long – lân – quy – phụng vô cùng sinh động. Đây cũng là một trong số ít công trình ở Đại Nội có nối liền với các điện khác bằng hệ thống hành lang cung đình, thể hiện sự liên kết chặt chẽ trong không gian sinh hoạt và làm việc của vua chúa thời Nguyễn. 🏗️ Tình trạng hiện nay và quá trình phục dựng Do chiến tranh và thời gian, điện bị hư hại nặng và bị tháo dỡ hoàn toàn vào năm 1947, hiện chỉ còn nền gạch, bậc cấp, cùng một số dấu tích cổ. Tuy nhiên, tin vui là điện đang được tiến hành phục dựng, bắt đầu từ năm 2023, với sự hỗ trợ của chính phủ Hàn Quốc và các chuyên gia trùng tu di tích. Dự án kỳ vọng sẽ khôi phục gần như nguyên bản kiến trúc xưa, dự kiến hoàn thành vào khoảng 2027, đánh dấu sự hồi sinh của một di sản quý giá. 📍 Trải nghiệm khi tham quan Du khách hiện có thể tham quan nền điện và xem các bảng thông tin, bản vẽ phục dựng 3D để hình dung rõ hơn về quy mô và vẻ đẹp của công trình xưa. Khu vực này thường ít đông khách hơn so với điện Thái Hòa, tạo cảm giác yên tĩnh và trang nghiêm hơn. Nếu bạn yêu thích lịch sử, đừng quên dành thời gian đọc kỹ các tư liệu tại khu vực này – sẽ thấy được một phần “hậu trường” của quyền lực triều Nguyễn. 🔖 Tổng kết: Điện Cần Chánh là trái tim hành chính của Hoàng thành Huế, nơi ghi dấu những quyết sách lớn của triều đình nhà Nguyễn suốt hơn một thế kỷ. Dù hiện tại chưa được phục dựng hoàn chỉnh, nhưng nền móng xưa và các thông tin trưng bày vẫn đủ khiến nơi này trở thành một điểm tham quan không thể bỏ lỡ cho người yêu lịch sử và di sản cố đô. ⭐ Đánh giá: 4.5/5 (Chờ ngày tái hiện hoàn chỉnh để trở lại vị thế xứng tầm trong Đại Nội Huế)

(Translated by Google) Because the palace was destroyed long ago, only the foundation remains. However, according to the tour guide, the palace is being researched and restored outside. When the restoration is complete, it will be moved to the inner city. Hopefully that day will come soon. (Original) Do điện đã bị phá từ xưa nên giờ chỉ còn nền móng. Tuy nhiên theo như cô hướng dẫn viên chia sẻ thì điện đang được nghiên cứu và phục dựng ở bên ngoài. Lúc nào phục dựng xong thì sẽ di chuyển vào nền trong kinh thành. Hi vọng ngày đấy sẽ đến ko xa.

Not the largest, but definitely the prettiest gate to the old Imperial city. Colorful and covered in tilework, its beauty shines through the neglect that it is obviously a victim of. The bridge and lily pad filled moat add to the romantic vibe of this place

One of the most Beautiful entrances to the Imperial palace in Hue

One of the many stunning main gates around the Imperial City walls.

Worth visiting. Beautiful architecture. Very picturesque. Beautiful tile mosaic details. More beautiful at night because of the monumental lighting. A popular photo spot. Could get a bit busy sometimes. An identical less famous gate is located at the opposite side. Coffee shops are nearby. An alternative exit through the imperial complex.

Rainy day 20250306

The exit from the Imperial City.

One of the many historical gates to exit the Hue Imperial City/Citadel.

Very clean, good mattresses, convenient to rail station. Friendly reception/owner.Walking distance to Imperial Palace. 2 km to main tourist area. No English but compulsory C-19 registration achieved with a smile.

Close walk to train station roads are well paved for rolling luggage. Good street food near by. For $12 night dont expect too much and you will be fine. Could have been cleaner but everthing worked and shower was hot. No beakfast served here but we always carry cereal amd uht milk. Would recommend for budget traveller and I would stay again. Also close to pharmacies located opposite hospital

Not clean

Ok

(Translated by Google) The blankets were never changed, the towels were so old that they were torn, the blankets and sheets used by previous guests were never changed and washed, there was a lot of hair and smelly, the room was dusty, the old air conditioner was noisy but not cool. (Original) Chăn ga không hề thay, khăn thì cũ đến mức rách luôn, chăn ga khách trước dùng không hề thay giặt, còn bám rất nhiều tóc và hôi hám, phòng bụi bặm, điều hoà cũ tiếng ồn nhưng không mát

(Translated by Google) The hotel is old over time, located near the station. This place is for a simple overnight stay. (Original) Khách sạn cũ kỹ theo thời gian,nằm gần ga. Nơi này dành cho nghỉ qua đêm đơn thuần thì đc.

(Translated by Google) Service is not attentive, air conditioning system is old and not cool. Customers show displeasure when they comment. They want to collect money from customers but do not care about facilities. Price is higher than other places. (Original) Phục vụ k chu đáo, hệ thống máy điều hoà đã cũ không mát. Khách ý kiến thì tỏ thái độ khó chịu. Tiền thì muốn thu của khách chứ k quan tâm cơ sở vật chất. Giá lại cao hơn các nơi khác

(Translated by Google) This is the headquarters of the officers, employees, and workers of the Hue Ancient Capital Conservation Center. Standing outside taking pictures of the screen or entrance gate still brings many valuable photos. (Original) Đây là trụ sở làm việc của các cán bộ, công nhân viên chức, người lao động của Trung tâm BTDT Cố đô Huế. Đứng phía ngoài chụp bức bình phong hay cổng ra vào vẫn mang lại nhiều bức ảnh giá trị.

(Translated by Google) Formerly the Quoc Tu Giac Hoang, later became the Secret Institute, currently used by the Hue Monuments Conservation Center as its administrative headquarters. (Original) Xưa là Quốc Tự Giác Hoàng, sau này trở thành Viện Cơ Mật, hiện đang được Trung tâm Bảo tồn Di tích Cố Đô Huế dùng làm trụ sở hành chính.

I walked through the gates to look at the building but guard yelled at me to get out

(Translated by Google) We spent more than half a day strolling around this city with its interesting history. The architecture is beautiful and grand, a mix of Vietnam and China. You will definitely enjoy visiting this ancient city. (Original) Wir verbrachten mehr als einen halben Tag damit, durch diese Stadt mit ihrer interessanten Geschichte zu schlendern. Die Architektur ist wunderschön und großartig, eine Mischung aus Vietnam und China.​ Sie werden es auf jeden Fall genießen, diese alte Stadt zu besichtigen.

(Translated by Google) The space is very beautiful and airy. Not a tourist attraction, but an office. The gate and office architecture are beautiful and impressive. (Original) Không gian rất đẹp, thoáng. Không phải điểm tham quan mà là văn phòng công sở. Các kiến trúc cổng, nhà văn phòng đẹp, ấn tượng.

(Translated by Google) When visiting the Hue Citadel, I would like to comment on the following issues. Although small, they cause discomfort for tourists and reflect the manager's poor talent and intelligence. One is: the current tour ticket price is 200k/person, but when entering, you cannot visit Thai Hoa Palace because it is being demolished due to restoration => so why not reduce the ticket even for guests but sell it for 200k? Second: Hue ancient capital relics are an important and meaningful heritage in many aspects, like a giant outdoor museum => there should be a tour guide to give a systematic and systematic introduction about this place and should not be wasted. Yet this place still charges a demonstration fee. The amount of 150k is not large, but our way of dealing with history like that is excessive and lacking in education. Third: electric cars here are charged by the hour, 1 hour is 300k, a car can carry 7 people and still charges 300k. But the tram can't go very far, it just runs around in circles, and can't get close to the nine Gods. Seeing many aunts and uncles trying their best to ride the tram but the tickets were too expensive so they had to walk, made me feel sorry for them. Only families that are well-off can afford to rent an electric car. => Tickets pile up on tickets, squeezing tourists, not serving thoroughly, in the end still "shaping" tourists to the bone. You should review the price of the electric car or the exit route to make it more convenient for passengers. Fourth: relics are displayed for sale haphazardly inside, some are real but some are fake, losing the solemnity of a big relic => regardless of money, causing a lot of resentment for tourists. This is my subjective opinion, I hope to receive more constructive feedback. (Original) Khi tham quan Đại Nội Huế, mình xin góp ý mấy vấn đề sau, tuy nhỏ nhưng nó gây khó chịu cho khách du lịch, phản ảnh tài và trí người quản lý kém cỏi của người quản lý. Một là: giá vé tham quan hiện tại 200k/khách, nhưng khi vào thì không thăm quan được điện Thái Hoà vì đang đang dỡ vì trùng tu => vậy sao không giảm vé cho dù khách mà lại bán 200k? Hai là: di tích cố đô Huế là một đi sản quan trọng, ý nghĩa về nhiều mặt, như một bảo tàng khổng lồ ngoài trời => lẻ ra phải có thuyết minh viên đi theo giới thiệu bài bản và hệ thông về nơi này và không nên thử phí. Vậy mà nơi này vẫn thu phí thuyết minh. Số tiền 150k không lớn, nhưng cách làm của chúng ta với lịch sử như vậy là quá đáng, thiếu tính giáo dục. Ba là: xe điện ở đây tính theo giờ, 1 tiếng là 300k, một xe chỡ được 7 người vẫn thu 300k. Nhưng xe điện có chỡ đi đâu xa không chỉ chạy vòng vòng, chưa ra được đến gần cửu vị Thần Công nữa. Thấy nhiều cô bác mõi chân muốn được đi xe điện mà vé mắc quá đành lội bộ mà thấy thương. Gia đình nào khá giã chút mới có điều kiện thuê xe điện đi. => Vé chồng vé, ép khách du lịch, phục vụ chưa tận tân, chung quy vẫn là "bào" khách du lịch tận xương. Nên xem lại giá xe điện hoặc lối ra lại xe cho khách đi thuận tiện hơn. Bốn là: di tích mà bày bán lung tung bên trong, thật có mà giả cũng có, mất đi tính trang trọng của một đi tích lớn => vì tiền mà bất chấp, gây ra phản cảm cho du khách rất nhiều. Đây là ý kiến chủ quan của tôi, mong nhận được phản hồi xây dựng thêm.

(Translated by Google) Very majestic (Original) Rất lộng lẫy uy nghiêm

A formerly beautiful building that looks like it is in a bad need of restoration. It is a twin to a building across the plaza.

Just ok.

Nice

Good

Nothing special

Long corridors.

good

Good

Great walk around!

Just ok.

Ok

Good

(Translated by Google) Khon Thai Palace in Hue Citadel is a place that was once very famous, but is now only ruins. The palace was built in 1804 during the reign of King Gia Long, as the residence of the queens and royal concubines. However, during the reign of Khai Dinh, the palace was destroyed and now only a corridor remains between Duong Tam palace and Thuan Huy palace. Although no longer intact, the surrounding space still brings a feeling of peace and quiet, very suitable for those who love learning about history. Khon Thai Palace once had many beautiful architectural works, such as Cao Minh Trung Chinh Palace and Tinh Quan Duong, but now only vestiges remain. (Original) Cung Khôn Thái trong Kinh thành Huế là một nơi từng rất nổi tiếng, nhưng giờ đây chỉ còn là những phế tích. Cung được xây dựng vào năm 1804 dưới triều vua Gia Long, là nơi ở của các hoàng hậu và hoàng quý phi. Tuy nhiên, vào thời Khải Định, cung đã bị phá hủy và giờ chỉ còn lại một dãy hành lang nối giữa điện Dưỡng Tâm và viện Thuận Huy. Mặc dù không còn nguyên vẹn, nhưng không gian xung quanh vẫn mang lại cảm giác yên bình và tĩnh lặng, rất thích hợp cho những ai yêu thích tìm hiểu về lịch sử. Cung Khôn Thái từng có nhiều công trình kiến trúc đẹp, như điện Cao Minh Trung Chính và Tĩnh Quan đường, nhưng giờ chỉ còn lại những dấu tích

(Translated by Google) Wisdom Palace is located right behind Can Thanh Palace, the residence of the queen and royal concubines of the Nguyen Dynasty. The palace has one main hall, Cao Minh Trung Chinh, established in 1804. The main hall has 7 rooms, the former president and the latter have 9 rooms. On the east side of Cao Minh Trung main palace, there is a static official road. is a theater to serve the king and royal concubine. King Thanh Thai often watched opera performances here. On the left front of Cao Minh Trung Palace is the mental health palace for princesses, on the right is the Thuan Huy Hospital for ladies. The Wisdom Palace was dismantled in the reign of enlightenment, leaving only a row of tiled corridors connecting the Tam Tam Palace and the Thuan Huy Palace, and the two communal houses in front of Kien Trung Palace. Currently, the Wisdom Palace is a ruin in the Forbidden City. (Original) cung khôn thái nằm ngay phía sau điện càn thành, là nơi ở của hoàng hậu và hoàng quý phi triều nguyễn. cung có một chính điện là cao minh trung chính, lập vào năm 1804. chính tịch 7 gian, tiền tịch, hậu tịch đều 9 gian. phía đông của điện cao minh trung chính có tĩnh quan đường. là nhà hát để phục vụ vua và hoàng phi. vua thành thái thường xem diễn tuồng nơi đây. phía trước bên trái điện cao minh trung chính là điện dưỡng tâm dành cho các công chúa, bên phải là viện thuận huy dành cho các bà tần. cung khôn thái bị triệt giải vào thời khải định, chỉ còn là dãy hành lang lợp ngói nối điện dưỡng tâm và viện thuận huy, và hai phương đình trước điện kiến trung. hiện nay cung khôn thái là một phế tích trong tử cấm thành.

Even though some tourists neglect this place, it is absolutely worth the visit. The palace displays authenticity and features a really lovely park, with a moon-shaped canal.

Truong San Residence (Cung Trường Sanh) was isolated from the other place, quiet and clam the backyard surrounded by the canal and pond in the front, the yellow mustard building made it more fascinating and charming to watch in the building has not much left to observe, most of them were closed rooms

Enchanting private residence and gardens with semi-circular lake and small artificial island.

Amazing

(Translated by Google) The Imperial City of Hue is an impressive fortress composed of three successive walls: the Citadel, the Royal City, and the Forbidden City. The Imperial City is the outer wall, protecting the Royal City and the Forbidden City. (Original) La Cité impériale de Huế est une forteresse impressionnante composée de trois enceintes successives : la Citadelle, la Cité royale et la Cité interdite. La Cité impériale est l'enceinte extérieure, qui protège la Cité royale et la Cité interdite.

(Translated by Google) 🏵️ Truong Sanh Palace - A peaceful retreat in the heart of Hue Imperial City In the heart of Hue Imperial City, where the majestic and solemn works of the Nguyen Dynasty are concentrated, there is an area with its own beauty - quiet, simple but very poetic: Truong Sanh Palace. Less known to tourists than Thai Hoa Palace or Tu Cam Thanh, Truong Sanh is an interesting stop, rich in cultural and historical depth. 🌸 A place reserved for the Queen Mother Truong Sanh Palace was built in the early 19th century, initially as a place of rest and recuperation for the Queen Mothers - the mothers of the world when they retired to the harem. After many renovations, this place was used by King Tu Duc, King Dong Khanh, then King Khai Dinh and King Bao Dai to care for and serve the Queen Mothers in their final years. For that reason, the space here is imbued with femininity, elegance and peace. 🏯 Elegant architecture, full of palace ladies Truong Sanh Palace is not massive but small and discreet, located in the middle of a cool green garden, with a lake, bonsai trees and rows of ancient houses built of bricks and wood. The main structures such as Truong Sanh Palace, Tinh Tam Tower, Tu Tho Tower... are arranged harmoniously, creating a feeling of lightness and relaxation. The architecture here reflects the true spirit of "longevity" - living long, living peacefully. 🌿 A quiet corner in the Imperial City Unlike crowded places such as The Mieu or Ngo Mon, Truong Sanh Palace is a small corner that few people visit, ideal for you to "hide from the sun", rest, or simply walk in the shady grounds. Many mossy walls, old wooden doors and long corridors winding around the garden create a very poetic scene, very Hue. 📸 Suggested experiences for visitors Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is gentle and the space is quiet. What to bring: A notebook or camera - to record private emotions in this peaceful place. Photography style: Romantic, classic - suitable for traditional ao dai, vintage dresses or dark tones. 🧭 Conclusion Truong Sanh Palace is not noisy or splendid, but it is a place that preserves the quiet and profound beauty of Hue Imperial Palace. This is a place for you to calm down, to feel another dimension of the Imperial City - where people live slowly, deeply and live for spiritual values. If you have ever thought that Hue only has golden and noble works, then try visiting Truong Sanh once, you will see that Hue also has gentle and touching moments of silence. (Original) 🏵️ Cung Trường Sanh – Chốn an dưỡng yên bình trong lòng Hoàng thành Huế Giữa lòng Đại Nội Huế, nơi tập trung những công trình nguy nga và trang nghiêm của triều Nguyễn, có một khu vực mang vẻ đẹp riêng – tĩnh lặng, giản dị nhưng rất nên thơ: Cung Trường Sanh. Ít được du khách biết đến hơn so với Thái Hòa điện hay Tử Cấm Thành, nhưng Trường Sanh lại là một điểm dừng chân thú vị, giàu chiều sâu văn hóa và lịch sử. 🌸 Nơi dành riêng cho Hoàng Thái Hậu Cung Trường Sanh được xây dựng vào đầu thế kỷ XIX, ban đầu là nơi nghỉ ngơi, tịnh dưỡng cho các Hoàng thái hậu – những bậc mẫu nghi thiên hạ khi đã lui về hậu cung. Sau nhiều lần trùng tu, nơi này được vua Tự Đức, vua Đồng Khánh, rồi vua Khải Định và Bảo Đại sử dụng để chăm sóc và phụng dưỡng các vị mẫu hậu trong những năm cuối đời. Cũng vì lẽ đó, không gian nơi đây mang đậm chất nữ tính, thanh nhã và yên bình. 🏯 Kiến trúc thanh thoát, đậm chất cung nữ Cung Trường Sanh không đồ sộ mà nhỏ nhắn, kín đáo, nằm giữa một khu vườn xanh mát, có hồ nước, cây cảnh và những dãy nhà cổ xây bằng gạch và gỗ. Các công trình chính như điện Trường Sanh, lầu Tịnh Tâm, gác Tư Thọ… được sắp xếp hài hòa, tạo cảm giác nhẹ nhàng và thư thái. Kiến trúc ở đây phản ánh đúng tinh thần "trường sinh" – sống lâu, sống an nhiên. 🌿 Một góc yên tĩnh giữa Đại Nội Không giống những nơi đông khách tham quan như Thế Miếu hay Ngọ Môn, Cung Trường Sanh là góc nhỏ ít người lui tới, rất lý tưởng để bạn “trốn nắng”, nghỉ chân, hoặc đơn giản là đi dạo trong khuôn viên rợp bóng cây. Nhiều bức tường rêu phong, cánh cửa gỗ cũ kỹ và hành lang dài uốn quanh khu vườn tạo nên khung cảnh rất thơ, rất Huế. 📸 Gợi ý trải nghiệm cho du khách Thời điểm tham quan đẹp: Buổi sáng sớm hoặc chiều muộn, khi nắng nhẹ và không gian tĩnh lặng. Nên mang theo: Một cuốn sổ tay hoặc máy ảnh – để ghi lại cảm xúc riêng tư nơi chốn an yên này. Phong cách chụp ảnh: Lãng mạn, cổ điển – thích hợp với áo dài truyền thống, váy vintage hoặc tông màu trầm. 🧭 Kết luận Cung Trường Sanh không ồn ào hay lộng lẫy, nhưng lại là nơi lưu giữ vẻ đẹp trầm lặng và sâu sắc của hoàng cung Huế. Đây là nơi để bạn lắng lại, để cảm nhận một chiều không gian khác của Đại Nội – nơi mà con người ta sống chậm, sống sâu và sống vì những giá trị tinh thần. Nếu bạn đã từng ngỡ Huế chỉ có những công trình vàng son quyền quý, thì hãy thử một lần ghé Trường Sanh, bạn sẽ thấy Huế còn có những khoảng lặng dịu dàng đến nao lòng.

(Translated by Google) Truong Sanh Palace is located in the northwest corner of Hue Imperial City, a special royal architectural complex built in 1821 under the reign of King Minh Mang. • Original purpose: a place to live for the Queen Mothers, Queen Mothers and Royal Consorts who have passed their time in the inner palace but are still being cared for by the royal court. • Meaning of the name: "Truong Sanh" means long life, good health, showing the king's filial piety and wishes for longevity for his mother. • Architectural scale: • There are 3 main houses arranged in the shape of the letter Tam, harmoniously located between the garden and lake according to Northern feng shui - symbolizing tranquility and peace. • In addition to the house, there are also yards, flower gardens, and water pavilions for the ladies to entertain, sightsee, and retire. • Highlights: The palace is surrounded by its own wall, separate from other areas in the Imperial City; the main gate faces southeast. (Original) Cung Trường Sanh nằm ở góc tây bắc Hoàng thành Huế, là một quần thể kiến trúc cung đình đặc biệt được xây dựng năm 1821 dưới triều vua Minh Mạng. • Mục đích ban đầu: nơi ở dành cho các bà Thái hoàng thái hậu, Hoàng thái hậu và Hoàng thái phi đã hết thời ở nội cung nhưng vẫn được triều đình phụng dưỡng. • Ý nghĩa tên gọi: “Trường Sanh” nghĩa là sống lâu, khỏe mạnh, thể hiện lòng hiếu kính và cầu chúc trường thọ của vua dành cho mẫu hậu. • Quy mô kiến trúc: • Có 3 khu nhà chính bố trí hình chữ Tam, nằm hài hòa giữa vườn cây, hồ nước theo phong thủy phương Bắc – tượng trưng cho sự tĩnh lặng, yên ổn. • Ngoài nhà ở còn có sân, vườn hoa, thủy tạ để các bà giải trí, ngắm cảnh, dưỡng già. • Điểm nổi bật: Cung được bao bọc bởi tường thành riêng, tách biệt với các khu vực khác trong Hoàng thành; cổng chính hướng về phía đông nam.

(Translated by Google) One morning in late autumn and early winter, waking up and looking at the gentle, romantic An Cuu River in the morning mist, combined with the cold weather, felt more in love with Hue than ever. (Original) Một buổi sáng cuối thu đầu đông thức dậy và ngắm sông An Cựu hiền hoà, lãng mạn trong sương sớm, cộng với cái tiết trời se lạnh, cảm thấy yêu Huế hơn bao giờ hết

(Translated by Google) An Cuu River is cloudy and sunny, with clear rain. The place associated with my childhood..! (Original) Sông An Cựu nắng đục, mưa trong. Nơi gắn liền tuổi thơ tôi..!

(Translated by Google) The long clear blue river with many residential areas spread along the river. Cycling along both sides of the river is a wonderful experience (Original) Dòng sông dài trong xanh cùng nhiều khu dân cư trải dọc bên dòng sông. Đạp xe đạp dọc xung quanh hai bên sông là một trải nghiêm tuyệt vời

(Translated by Google) The river has many names depending on the area it flows through. Original name is Loi Nong (Original) Con sông đào có nhiều tên gọi tùy vào vùng nó chảy qua. Tên gốc là Lợi Nông

(Translated by Google) Ancient river of Hue. (Original) Sông cổ của xứ Huế.

(Translated by Google) Beautiful and poetic scene. Great to be back here! (Original) Cảnh đẹp nên thơ. Tuyệt vời khi trở lại đây!

(Translated by Google) Cool and very beautiful (Original) Mát mẽ và rất đẹp

veru old

Good

(Translated by Google) It is said to be the site of Jeongmyeongjeon. In the long corridor next to it, old black-and-white photos of the dynasty are displayed, and in the corridor leading to Yeonsu Palace, you can see past kings of the Nguyen Dynasty and various documents. (Original) 정명전(貞明殿) 자리라고 하네요. 옆의 긴 회랑에는 왕조의 옛 흑백 사진들이 전시되고 있으며, 연수궁으로 연결되는 회랑에는 응우엔 왕조의 역대 왕제들과 각종 문서 자료들을 볼 수 있습니다.

(Translated by Google) War devastation left nothing. (Original) Chiến tranh tàn phá chẳng còn gì.

(Translated by Google) is the residence of the concubines (Original) là nơi ở của các bà phi

(Translated by Google) Great (Original) Tuyệt Vời

(Translated by Google) Pretty (Original) Đẹp