I speak fluent Vietnamese and have traveled to many places in Vietnam, including Hue. I understand that finding where to stay in Hue as a first-timer can be overwhelming. That’s why, in today’s article, I will help you to find the safe places to stay in Hue for first-time visitors.
I will share with you what I believe are the best and safest areas to stay in Hue for first-timers and tourists, along with a helpful map. I’ll also share where I stayed in Hue and recommend some of the best hotels in Hue for various budgets.
Before get into the detail of the main topic, let’s look at some facts about Hue:
Hue was the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. It is a popular tourist destination located on the banks of the Perfume River in central Vietnam. The city has a rich history and is known for its historical monuments, ancient architecture, and cultural heritage.
The city is famous for the Imperial City, a vast complex of palaces, temples, walls, and gates that served as the political and cultural center of the Nguyen emperors. The Imperial City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Perfume River runs through the city, and a boat trip on the river offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape and access to some of the historical sites.
You can visit Thien Mu Pagoda, which is one of the oldest and most iconic pagodas in Hue, situated on the northern bank of the Perfume River. The pagoda has seven stories and is a symbol of the city.
During the Vietnam War, Hue was the site of the Battle of Hue in 1968, a significant and intense conflict. Many historical sites and buildings still bear the scars of war.
Hue is renowned for its unique and delicious cuisine, which includes dishes that were once served to the royal family. Bun bo Hue, a spicy beef noodle soup, is a local specialty.
Is Hue safe to visit?
Hue, like any other tourist destinations in Vietnam, is generally safe to visit, even for solo travelers. But, as you would when traveling to any foreign country, I advise you to take basic precautions, care for your belongings, and avoid walking alone late at night to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Hue has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The best time to visit is from February to April. Avoid the rainy/flooding season, which is typically from August to December.
Where to stay in Hue for the first time?
The best and safest areas to stay in Hue for first-timers and tourists are Phu Hoi, Vinh Ninh, Phu Nhuan, The Imperial Citadel area, and Vy Da. These areas offer a variety of accommodations for all budgets and preferences.
Phu Hoi Ward is one of the most popular areas to stay in Hue for the first time who want to be in the heart of the action. This area has the widest concentration of accommodations, so you can easily choose one that suits your needs. You’ll have easy access to the river, the walking street, and the old citadel.
You can also book your accommodation in the Vinh Ninh and Phu Nhuan, which are also convenient areas allocated right next to Phu Hoi Ward. Or if you want to stay right next to the royal palace, you can find some hotels in its surroundings.
No matter where you choose to stay, you can easily get around by renting a scooter, and by using Grab. Grab is a popular app in Vietnam, similar to Uber. It is a cheap and safe way to get around if you don’t drive.
During my trip to Hue, I stayed in Hue City Center at the Tâm Homestay. It was a good value for money accommodation in a central location, easy access to the walking street, and major historical sights. There were plenty of nice restaurants around, breakfast was lovely, and my room was spacious and comfortable.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Hue for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Hue, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Hue have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them.
If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
5 Safe areas to stay in Hue for first-timers and tourists
1. Phu Hoi Ward
Phu Hoi is one of the best places to stay in Hue for first-time visitors. This area is the heart of the city where you can find the walking streets, the riverfront February 3 Park, and many tourist amenities. It is packed with restaurants, shops, and accommodations.
This area is surrounded by the River in two sides, the other side borders Vinh Ninh and Phu Nhuan. You’ll have easy access to the Huong River where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbanks, or take a boat along the river.
Phu Hoi’s location is also a convenient base for visiting the Imperial Palace, which is located 20 mins walk or short Grab ride away.
Best places to stay in Hue in Phu Hoi for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): Melia Vinpearl Hue, popular 5-star hotel in Hue city center, great base to explore the city. Within walking distance from many restaurants, shops, and Huong River. You can easily get around with Grab taxi and motorbike, which is a very reasonable price. It has a 24-hour front desk, indoor swimming pool, very good breakfast, and currency exchange.
Mid-range ($$): Rosaleen Boutique Hotel, great 4-star hotel centrally located in the heart of Hue, right in the European city center right near walking street. It is 20 mins walk from the Imperial city, but you can also reach it by boat. 5-10 mins walk from Ferry Terminal and Perfume River. It has free parking, paid airport shuttle services, and delicious breakfasts with plenty of choices.
Budget ($): Jade Scene Hotel, 3-star good value for money hotel in a prime location, in central Hue, right next to the backpacker/walking street. The hotel has a nice rooftop pool, good breakfast, good sized rooms, as well as bike hire and car hire services. There are many restaurants nearby.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN HUE2. Vinh Ninh Ward
Vinh Ninh is a great area to stay in for those who want a central location, and easy access to major sights. This area is located right next to Huong River and Phu Hoi ward. It still has many choices of accommodation options but less compared to Phu Hoi.
This area is home to Nguyen Dinh Chieu walking street, lovely river promenade, Song Huong performing arts theater, Hồ Chí Minh Museum, Le Loi Park, and Vincom Plaza shopping center.
Best places to stay in Hue in Vinh Ninh for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel, 5-star hotel conveniently located on Le Loi Street, only one block from the Huong River. Easy access to major attractions and the train station. Grab taxis are cheap and easy to catch so getting around isn’t too much of a problem.
Mid-range ($$): Thanh Lich Royal Boutique, 4-star hotel in central Hue, on Hai Ba Trung street. Within walking distance to the citadel and local street bars. Guest rooms are spacious with comfortable beds. The hotel has airport transfers, bicycle/car rentals, indoor swimming pool, and an onsite restaurant.
Budget ($): Alba Hotel, 3-star hotel in Nguyen Van Cu Street, 10- 15 mins walk from Hue Train Station, Perfume River, and the Royal Palace. 20 min taxi ride from Phu Bai International Airport. The hotel has free parking, family rooms, Laundry services, and paid airport transfer. Quiet place, easy access to restaurants and shops, 30 mins walk/ short Grab ride from the Imperial Palace.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN HUE3. Phu Nhuan Ward
Phu Nhuan is another great base in Hue, conveniently located next to Phu Hoi and Vinh Ninh. You can find good homestay, guest houses in this area. You can use Grab to get around if you don’t feel like walking or cycling.
Best places to stay in Hue in Phu Nhuan for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): Indochine Palace, 5-star hotel conveniently located on Hung Vuong Street, Walking distance to restaurants and shops. Short Grab taxi ride to most major attractions. It has a good buffet breakfast, family rooms, and Outdoor swimming pool.
Budget ($): Nana Homestay & Villa, a sustainable homestay that has a terrace, free parking, a shared kitchen, and currency exchange. Close to Redemptorist Church, An Dinh Palace and Phu Cam Church. You can use Grab to get around, which is very cheap and plentiful.
Budget ($): MyFa House, a sustainable guest house, in a good location, close to the center but still in a quiet area with many shops in its surroundings. You can use grab most places such as the IMperial Palace, Truong Tien Bridge, Dong Ba Market.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN HUE4. The Imperial Citadel area
Staying in The Imperial Citadel area is a great choice if you want convenient access to the historical sites. There are various accommodation options in and around this area, ranging from boutique hotels to homestays.
The Imperial Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the political, cultural, and religious center of the Nguyen Dynasty, Vietnam’s last feudal dynasty.
Within the Imperial Citadel is the Imperial City, a walled enclosure that houses the emperor’s residence, temples, palaces, and administrative buildings.
The area is home to several notable attractions, including the Thai Hoa Palace, the Forbidden Purple City, the Hall of Supreme Harmony, and the Halls of Mandarins.
Visitors to the Imperial Citadel area can explore the rich history and culture of Vietnam, learning about the country’s imperial past.
The Imperial Citadel is located along the Perfume River, providing picturesque views and a serene atmosphere.
Nearby markets and restaurants offer opportunities to experience local cuisine and purchase traditional Vietnamese crafts and souvenirs. You can visit Dong Ba Market, which is one of the oldest and largest markets where you can experience local daily life and purchase traditional Vietnamese goods.
The Imperial Citadel area is centrally located, making it easy to access other attractions in Hue, such as the city center, Thien Mu Pagoda and the Tomb of Khai Dinh.
Best places to stay in Hue in The Imperial Citadel area:
Mid-range ($$): Spatel d’Annam – Imperial Boutique Spa & Hotel, 4-star hotel, located next to the old citadel. It features free bikes, free parking, an outdoor pool and a garden. Rooms are small but clean and beautifully designed. Easy distance from Forbidden Purple City, Tinh Tam Lake and Dong Ba Market.
Budget ($): SOLEIL BOUTIQUE, great accommodation located next to the Old Citadel and Phu Xuan brigade. Good location in the dry season. Easy access to the Forbidden Purple City, Ho Chi Minh Museum and Dieu De National Pagoda.
Budget ($): Le Robinet Homestay, 3-star accommodation located within the city walls, right next to the Royal Palace. You can enjoy a nice breakfast in the garden, and use free bikes for exploring the area. Easy access to Tinh Tam Lake, Museum of Royal Antiquities and Ngu Phung.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN THE IMPERIAL CITADEL AREA5. Vy Da Ward
Vy Da is a great area to stay if you want a local feel and quieter atmosphere compared to the city center. It is best suited with travelers who plan to rent a motorbike or use Grab to get around.
This ward is located just north of the city center across the Nhu Y River. It also offers easy access to Hen Island, which is a small hamlet in the middle of Perfume River.
Best places to stay in Hue in Vy Da for visitors:
Budget ($): Nam Phương Riverside Villa, 1-star hotel, featuring a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, a shared kitchen, free parking, and a terrace. 5 min walk to the city center. You can also rent bikes and scooters from this accommodation (scooter 150k/day);
Budget ($): La Paix Hue, 3-star hotel located in a Quiet area, next to the river, away from all the hustle and bustle. It is a little bit out of the main area of town but you can easily get around by renting a scooter, or taking Grab. Easy access to Com Hen island.
Budget ($): Orchid Riverside Villa, 2-star hotel located on Han Mac Tu street, featuring an outdoor swimming pool, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN HUEIn conclusion, Phu Hoi, Vinh Ninh, Phu Nhuan, The Imperial Citadel area, and Vy Da are the best places to stay in Hue for first-timers and tourists. These are generally safe areas for visitors where you can find a variety of tourist attractions and amenities for all budgets.
You can continue reading other popular tourist destinations in Vietnam in this articles:
- Safest areas to stay in Hanoi first time
- Safest areas to stay in Ho Chi Minh City first time
- Safest areas to stay in Dalat for first time
- Safest areas to stay in Nha Trang for first time
- Safest areas to stay in Da Nang for first time
- Safest to stay in Hoi An for first time
There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to Hue. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.