Hue is a cultural city known for Imperial City (Citadel), Thien Mu Pagoda, and Perfume River. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Hue and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the museums or eating the delicious cuisine.
How much does it cost to travel to Hue?
A typical traveler spends $57 (d1,486,273) per day on a trip to Hue. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Hue based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $25 (d647,398) on meals
- $12 (d304,450) on local transportation
- $44 (d1,147,578) on hotels
A one-week trip to Hue for two people costs, on average, $797 (d20,807,822). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$399
d10,403,911
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$797
d20,807,822
-
One Month
Per person
$1,709
d44,588,190
-
One Week
For a couple
$797
d20,807,822
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$1,595
d41,615,644
-
One Month
For a couple
$3,417
d89,176,380
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Hue cost?
A one week trip to Hue usually costs around $399 (d10,403,911) for one person and $797 (d20,807,822) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Hue on average costs around $797 (d20,807,822) for one person and $1,595 (d41,615,644) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Hue will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Hue on average costs around $1,709 (d44,588,190) for one person and $3,417 (d89,176,380) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Hue expensive to visit?
In Hue, budget travelers spend $23 (d600,146) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $57 (d1,486,273) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $140 (d3,648,136) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Hue.
Hue is a well-liked city that lures countless visitors with differing travel preferences and spending habits. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
If you choose to make it so, Hue can be very pricey, but you can reduce your expenses by eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
Within Asia, Hue is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in Asia for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Luang Prabang, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Taipei.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Hue Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Hue?
The average Hue trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Hue travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Hue cost?
Hue on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$9
(d222,102)
|
$22
(d573,789)
|
$58
(d1,517,906)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$5
(d122,945)
|
$12
(d304,450)
|
$28
(d731,104)
|
|
Food2
|
$10
(d263,922)
|
$25
(d647,398)
|
$58
(d1,518,438)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$4
(d114,009)
|
$11
(d279,527)
|
$25
(d654,805)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$1-4
(d30,863-92,588)
|
$3-8
(d72,462-217,386)
|
$6-17
(d150,688-452,063)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many assume they can get by cheaply in Hue, but most people don't enjoy traveling on a very tight budget. Think about how you like to travel, and whether you prefer resorts, hostels, or vacation rentals. Do activities like sightseeing and dining out matter to you? These factors will help shape your travel budget.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $23 daily average that backpackers get away with.
Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.
Thankfully, Hue features plenty of hostels, such as Hue Happy Homestay, Hue Vietnam Backpacker Hostels, and Bon Ami Hostel. At hostels like this, you can find economical dorm beds and a great social atmosphere, although amenities might be quite sparse. Food is a standout attraction for all visitors to Hue, but those on a budget might rely on street food or cook in their hostels, which could mean less exposure to the fantastic local dishes.
So, are you average?
If you're a couple or a family traveling for fun, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the major museums and attractions which have entry fees. Most visitors to Hue will want to visit Imperial City (Citadel), Thien Mu Pagoda, or Perfume River. Most activities cost money, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be closer to $57 per person, per day.
In Hue, you can find a variety of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with others, you can share the costs of your hotel with a partner, friend, or children, which can help you save money. Families will want to seek out hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Hong Thien Ruby Hotel is a great choice for families, and Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa is another great option. To discover more family- and couple-oriented hotels, visit our hotel guide for Hue.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If a complete vacation with all amenities and a higher level of service is what you want, expect to allocate around $140 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, dine at award-winning establishments, treat yourself to extravagant excursions, and hire taxis or private drivers to navigate the city, a luxury budget will be necessary. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Easy Rider private tour via Hai Van pass from Hue - Da Nang - Hoi An - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Hue
The wide range of prices for hotels and accommodation in Hue can be very surprising. Some hotels have much higher price tags than others, and in turn offer higher levels of luxury and more amenities. Also, during peak season, prices are much higher. The average price for a hotel room in Hue in the off-season is $21, but in the peak winter travel season it will average around $39. In general, you can expect hotel prices in Hue to range from $12 to $75. Hostels are typically much cheaper, especially if you stay in a dorm. Also, note that the average hotel price is not always what travelers will pay (see below). You can save a good bit of money if you travel during the low season or shoulder seasons, as room prices adjust according to the overall demand. Booking in advance can often save you money, too, along with taking advantage of sale prices or special deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Hue for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $44 (d1,147,578). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $22 (d573,789) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Hue? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Hue include:
- Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa starting at $75
- Eldora Hotel starting at $40
- Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel & Spa starting at $85
- Moonlight Hotel Hue starting at $26
- Saigon Morin Hotel starting at $41
Hue's great public transit offers the flexibility to stay farther from the city, but be mindful that your transportation costs may increase, and it could be a time drain.
By traveling in the low or shoulder season (and avoiding winter), you can benefit from cheaper accommodations and fewer crowds.
Many people like to explore Hue on foot, so you'll want to stay in an area that is at the center of everything. This can come at a higher price though.
The city's vibrant old town is a big draw for visitors. Hotels in this area may be more expensive, but often have a lot of character and a location with easy access to everything.
Transportation Budget in Hue
Hue has a good public transit system that reaches some of the major sights. Cyclos, motorbikes, and local bus are the most common ways to get around the city. If you want to save money and get around quickly, the public transit is the way to go if it's conveniently located to where you're going. Also, you'll find taxis and rideshare services around town.
Walking enthusiasts will have a wonderful experience during their visit. Many of the sights can be reached on foot and the city is relatively compact.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $12 (d304,450) per person, per day, on local transportation in Hue. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Hue is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$12
d304,450
Your options for traveling around Hue are similar to those in other Vietnamese cities. There is no shortage of cyclos, motorbikes, or taxis around town. Generally, the meters are a reliable option in Hue and you can expect the drivers to rely on their meters. Trips usually start somewhere around 15,000 dong for about two kilometers and then climb upwards from there. If you suspect that the meter has been tinkered with, mention calling the police and the driver will back down. A trip to the tombs on the outskirts of town should cost roughly 300,000 dong, including the wait time.
With motorbikes, negotiate a fair price and walk away if they do not agree to a price you consider reasonable. There are no shortage of motorbikes or cyclos so you will find someone else who is more fair in their pricing. You should not have to pay more than 20,000 dong for a trip within Hue.
A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:
- Hue City Tour with Transfer to Hoi An or Danang by Private Car for $99 details
- Hue to Hoi An/Da Nang Transfer – Optional Hai Van Stop for $49 details
- Transfer from Hue to Hoi An by Motorbike for $67 details
How much does it cost to go to Hue? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Hue will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
The typical transit costs in Hue are outlined below, based on data from actual travelers. These figures provide an estimate of overall transportation expenses in the city. Remember, your personal costs will depend on how you choose to get around, as taxis and hired cars tend to be much pricier than using public transportation.
-
Cyclo
d12,000
-
Short Taxi Ride
d22,000
-
Taxi Ride to Tombs
d350,000
Food Budget in Hue
The food in Hue is delightful, and it's important to take the time to experience all the local tastes. Local dishes were once served to the city's emperors, but today you'll find them in restaurants and food stalls. Dishes are either sweet or spicy with lemongrass, basil, chilies, and mint herbs mixed in. Soups and grilled meats are popular such as bun bo hue and nem lui.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Hue can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Hue is $25 (d647,398) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$25
d647,398
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Hue is around $25 (d647398) per person, with previous travelers spending from $10 to $58. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Hue are as follows:
- Breakfast: $2 to $7
- Lunch: $4 to $10
- Dinner: $7 to $17
- Coffee: $2
- Fast Food or Street Food: $4
If you're interested in good Vietnamese food, there are some great local specialties around Hue. The city is famous for its Imperial cuisine, which was typically served for the emperor. An imperial banquet is a unique experience that is worth trying if you have the chance.
There are several traditional local dishes in Hue. Bun bo Hue is a noodle soup with beef slices that is popular and ubiquitous. Nem Lui is made with minced pork that is cooked on bamboo sticks over hot coals. Banh Khoai is a pancake that is stuffed with bean sprouts, shrimp, and pork. Bun Thit Nuong is a barbecued pork that is served with vegetables and noodles. Banh Beo is an appetizer of sticky rice with shrimp and pork. It's usually served with a sweet fish sauce.
Also make sure you pick up a box of the locally made sesame candy which is quite tasty.
Numerous hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, although others may charge you extra for it. The price and quality can vary from hotel to hotel. Being informed ahead of time can assist you in determining if you need to budget extra funds. The hotel buffet might be worth your money, or perhaps a cheaper option at a nearby bakery or cafe would suffice.
Bring a reusable water bottle instead of purchasing drinks all the time. It's also a great way to help the environment.
Be sure to check which meals are part of your tour before you go. You might be responsible for some of your own food costs, which could stretch your budget further.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Hue. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Motorbike Food Tour in Hue Province for $36 details
- E biking Night Street Food Tour with Local Guide for $42 details
- Experience Vegan Cooking Class in Hue City for $39 details
Typical prices for food in Hue are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the food prices in Hue. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, selected restaurants, and the items that you order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Hue
It's understandable that travelers choose Hue, as it is famous for museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and budget-friendly accommodations.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Hue typically cost an average of $11 (d279,527) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$11
d279,527
Here are a few of the most popular sights with their prices:
- Imperial City (Citadel) for ₫150,000
- Thien Mu Pagoda (Free)
- Perfume River (Free)
- Ben Ngu Market (Free)
- Dong Ba Market (Free)
- Pagoda of the Celestial Lady (Chua Thien Mu) (Free)
- Dai Noi Royal Palace for ₫150000
- Tomb of Khai Dinh for ₫150000
- Forbidden Purple City for ₫150,000
- Thanh Toan Bridge (Free)
- Tu Hieu Pagoda (Free)
- An Dinh Palace for ₫50000
- Hue Museum of Royal Fine Arts for ₫150000
As the former imperial capital of Vietnam, there are some great sights around the city. Make sure you visit the Imperial Citadel and the Tombs of the Emperors, both of which are highlights of the area. The Imperial Citadel is the former seat of the government and has a large complex of temples, pavilions, moats, shops, museums, and galleries. The Tombs of the Emperors are located on the Perfume River to the south of the city. They are best visited by river boat cruise.
Other interesting sights in Hue include Thien Mu Pagoda, Thanh Toan Bridge, and Phu Bai Airport.
There are many different activities that you can enjoy while you're in Hue. Motobike tours of the area are common. There are both day trips and multi-day trips that take you to the nearby town of Hoi An.
Other activities in the area include visiting the Alba Thanh Tan Hot Springs, going to My An Hot Spring and Spa, visiting Thuan An Beach, or enjoying a city sightseeing and food tour.
Museums and Attractions:
Museums and landmarks are a major reason why Hue attracts so many visitors. It's an ancient city that is filled with many sights from its imperial past. The Imperial City in Hue is the city's most important attraction. Other sights include the Thai Hoa Palace, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Royal Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh.
Historical Sights:
Countless travelers are captivated by the old town's history. As the former imperial capital, you'll see many temples and historical sites in the city.
Shopping:
Shopping here is a unique experience you'll want to have. The city has many local markets where you can find traditional and authentic handicrafts. Some of the most interesting things to purchase at the markets include silk paintings, antiques, and lacquerware.
A nice way to explore destinations in Hue is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Hue to Hoi An via Hai Van pass, Da Nang, My Son sightseeing stops for $56 details
- Hue City Sightseeing Private Car with English Speaking Driver for $17 details
- Motorbike Tour From Hue to Danang or Hoi An via Hai Van Pass for $59 details
A few typical prices for sights, activities, and entry fees in Hue are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers to provide you with an idea how much you might need to spend. Your individual costs will vary based on which activities you do, which attractions or museums you visit, and how often you participate in free or low-cost activities.
Nightlife Budget in Hue
Hue provides a selection of nightlife activities, but it doesn't quite stack up to the lively scenes in other popular areas. For the best nightlife, many visitors head to the Western Area, particularly around the streets of Pham Ngu Lao, Chu Van An and Vo Thi Sau. Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street is another popular area for nightlife in Hue.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $5.55 (d144,924) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Hue per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$5.55
d144,924
The nightlife scene is a lot of fun, but reducing how much you drink can go a long way in keeping your budget on track.
Nightlife is fun, but be cautious when drinking. Thieves target distracted people, so stay with your group and trust your instincts to keep yourself safe.
Typical prices for alcohol and nightlife in Hue are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the drink prices in Hue. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, how often you drink alcoholic beverages, and how much you order. Keep in mind that if you want to save money on your trip, cutting out alcohol can make one of the biggest impacts on your travel budget.
Travel cost data last updated: May 30, 2025
Traveling in Hue
Royal Palace, Hue, Vietnam
Hue is a major city in central Vietnam and was historically the imperial capital. The city was the base for the imperial Nguyen Dynasty, which ruled from 1802 to 1945. During the Vietnam War the city faced many challenges. It was conquered by the Viet Cong and held for 24 days. During this time about 3,000 people were slaughtered for their political views, education level, or religious affiliation.
Today, Hue offers visitors a unique experience with a vibrant atmosphere and rich culture. Many people stop in Hue on their way between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Hue has a tropical monsoon climate. The dry season is between March and August, when high temperatures can climb above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainy season is from August to January, and the flood season is from October onwards. Temperatures in the rainy season average 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
Neighborhoods & Around
Hue is divided by the Perfume River or Huong Giang. On the north side of the river you'll find the city's old town and the Citadel. On the south side you'll find most of the city's restaurants and hotels as well as the newer and modern city center. There's a lovely promenade and park area that runs along the riverside, making for a nice place to stroll. Check out some of the unusual sculptures along the way. There are also some interesting tombs that are further outside of town in the outskirts of the city.
Related:
Looking for a hostel in Vietnam or Cambodia? Find party hostels in Vietnam or Siem Reap or find the best place to stay if you're traveling alone to Ho Chi Minh City.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.