Photo: Collected

Hue foods are not only famous for the way they are prepared but also for their meticulous decoration. Each dish is like a work of art with a sophisticated appearance, rich flavors, and substantial health benefits.

There is only one way to better understand the uniqueness of Hue food: try them all. Or at least you should finish the list of the 16 most famous dishes below. Read carefully for the best taste of Hue!

1. TOP 5 Hue noodles - Among the best Hue food

1.1. Banh Canh Nam Pho (Nam Pho Thick Noodle Soup)

Nam Pho thick noodle soup is an impressive Hue appetizer, which is highly recommended by locals. It is also a wonderful breakfast choice that can set you up all day long. 

Banh Canh Nam Pho is served hot, with thinly sliced pork belly and prawns on top. The soul of this dish is the pure, naturally sweet broth made of crab and shrimp. Fresh herbs are added for additional aroma to make the dish even more delectable.

1.2. Bun Thit Nuong (Vermicelli with grilled pork)

"Once you taste it, you will never forget it"—that is how tourists describe the grilled pork vermicelli—one of the most iconic treats of Hue cuisine.

This dish's ingredients are simple, including vermicelli, pork, pickles, peanuts, and fish sauce. But its flavor is not that rustic. Instead, Bun Thit Nuong always comes with a pleasant and enjoyable taste. 

Bun Thit Nuong is considered a must-try when visiting Hue (Source: Collected) 

1.3. Bun Bo Hue (Hue Beef Noodle Soup)

Hue Beef Noodle Soup is a delicious and nutritious choice for all-time eating: breakfast, lunch, and even dinner. This is the most popular Hue food in Vietnam. However, only in Hue can tourists find the best version of the most traditional one.

Thick vermicelli, thin slices of beef, and an unmistakably spicy broth are three things that make Bun Bo in Hue stand out from other regions. The broth with beef bones, fish sauce, and local spices will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. 

1.4. What to eat in Hue? Banh Canh Ca Loc

Banh Canh Ca Loc (snakehead fish thick noodle soup) is a great hot dish to enjoy on rainy or cold days. The noodle is soft, moderately chewy, and comes in an amazing clear white. Meanwhile, the snakehead fish has a rich taste, not fishy or broken. And the broth is crystal-clear but tastes perfectly rich.

Banh Canh Ca Loc is one of the dishes that best represents the quintessence of Hue food (Source: Collected) 

1.5. Banh Uot Thit Nuong (Rice Noodle Rolls with Grilled Pork)

Banh Uot Thit Nuong (Rice Noodle Rolls with Grilled Pork) is a famous Vietnamese food in Hue. The dish is served with barbecued meat, noodle rolls, dipping sauce, local herbs, and vegetables.

Banh Uot Thit Nuong is a popular Hue street food (Source: Collected) 

What makes this dish special is the signature dipping sauce made of soybean paste. All the ingredients of this dish together produce a fusion of flavors and textures: the thin and soft noodle rolls; the slightly spicy, creamy dipping sauce; the tender, well-seasoned grilled meat; and the fresh, fragrant herbs. 

2. Iconic Hue dumplings and crispy pancakes for your bucket list

2.1. Banh Khoai (Hue Crispy Rice Pancake)

Banh Khoai is a well-known royal dish of Hue food. Everyone who enjoys it will love its fragrance and crispiness. This famous pancake has a complex recipe with so many ingredients. Even the dipping sauce is made of ten different spices and herbs, among other components. 

2.2. TOP 16 mouth-watering Hue foods? Banh Nam (Flat Steamed Rice Dumpling)

Banh Nam is made from tapioca flour, rice flour, shrimp, and banana leaves. It remains the most popular Hue street food because of its delicacy and unique shrimp flavor.

When presented, Banh Nam has a milky white tint with a lovely orange color from the shrimp on top. On tasting, the dish is soft but not greasy. It is best when paired with sweet-and-sour fish sauce.  

Banh Nam is an indispensable dish on the Hue street food tour (Source: Collected) 

2.3. Banh Bot Loc (Hue Clear Shrimp and Pork Dumpling)

Banh Bot Loc is loved in many Vietnamese localities. The authentic taste, however, can only be appreciated by savoring it in Hue.

When enjoying it, diners first feel the soft yet chewy wrapper before soaking in a rich filling of simmered shrimp and pork. This is an experience that everyone must try at least once.

2.4. Banh Beo (Steamed Water Fern Rice Cake)

Banh Beo is a quite simple street food in Hue. However, this dish can enrich visitors’ Hue food tours with its unique flavors. This cake is served in a ping-pong bowl with shrimp filling, green onions, and sweet-spicy fish sauce. Everything matches beautifully, creating a true Hue royal vibe. 

Banh Beo Hue is cheap yet delicious (Source: Collected) 

2.5. Banh Ep (Thin Scallion Pancakes)

Hue food is always distinct and flavorful, and Banh ep is one such dish. The pancake is thin and as small as the palm of your hand, but the inside is full of yummy shrimp paste. When it comes to “heirloom” dipping sauce, no one can get enough of it. 

2.6. TOP must-try Hue street food? Banh Ram It

Besides popular Hue foods like Bun Bo or Banh Canh, tourists should try Banh Ram It once when coming to Hue. This dish has a very eye-catching appearance, and its flavor is exquisite, too, thanks to the excellent combination of softness and crispiness. 

Banh Ram It in Hue (Source: Collected)

3. AWESOME rice dishes in Hue to satisfy your hunger

3.1. Com Am Phu

Com Am Phu is served with white rice, spicy chili garlic fish sauce, and many of Hue's delicacies. To fully enjoy the delightful taste of this dish, diners should mix the rice well with other ingredients and drizzle a little fish sauce.

3.2. Best food in Hue? Com Hen (Clam Rice)

Calm Rice is a combination of rice, clams, and local spices. This simple dish is one of the best Hue foods that can offer foodies the most distinctive flavor of the city. Usually, this dish will be served with various toppings such as clam water, fish sauce, local herbs and veggies, etc. 

Clam rice is attractive with the color of many ingredients (Source: Collected)

4. Other unmissable Hue food

4.1. Va Tron (Hue Mixed Figs)

Previously, Hue Mixed Figs were only cooked at family parties or holidays, but now visitors can order this type of Hue food from any restaurant. 

In fact, this dish has a simple preparation and uses familiar ingredients like meat, herbs, fish sauce, and figs. However, once you try this, you will definitely remember it forever.

4.2. Nem Lui (Hue Lemongrass Pork Skewers)

Nem Lui in Hue is always something tourists cannot leave without taking a bite. The dish is mainly made from pork and pork skin. Locals cook it on a charcoal grill to create an appealing aroma.

Hue Lemongrass Pork Skewers (Source: Collected)

Nem Lui is best when eaten hot with rice paper, local herbs, and the signature dipping sauce.  

4.3. Hen Xuc Banh Trang

Hen Xuc Banh Trang is not as famous as other Hue foods, but it is certainly worth trying. The dish is a mixture of dry roasted clams, spices, and crispy fried rice paper. When eating, diners will use rice paper as a spoon to collect clams and eat them together. 

Hue is not huge, but there are many specialties to taste, things to do, and destinations to visit. Among them, the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh, the Tomb of King Thieu Tri, Trang Tien Bridge, and Perfume River are some famous stopovers. With that in mind, travelers should carefully consider selecting suitable accommodations in advance. 

Source: Vinpearl.com

Photo: Collected

Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden is a perfect spot in Ho Chi Minh City that accommodates thousands of exotic flora and fauna. Stroll through the lush gardens, observe wildlife, and enjoy fun-filled games with your family and friends!

1. Where is Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens?

Location

• Address: 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Source: Collected

Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is the biggest zoo in Vietnam and one of the oldest zoos in the world. This botanical garden and zoo was established in 1864.

Opening hours: If you plan to visit Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, make sure you arrive within Saigon Zoo opening hours:

• 5 AM - 6:30 AM: The time frame for people who come to the zoo for morning exercise.
• 7 AM - 6:30 PM: The time frame for visitors.

2. The history and significance of Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens was commissioned in 1864 and has since become one of the oldest zoos and botanical gardens in Vietnam. It has played a crucial role in preserving and showcasing the region's diverse flora and fauna. 

Over the years, the zoo and botanical garden has gained recognition for its conservation efforts and educational initiatives. It has contributed significantly to the preservation of biodiversity and the promotion of environmental awareness.

Visitors to the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden can explore a wide range of animal and plant species. 

• The zoo is home to a diverse array of animals, both indigenous and exotic, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to observe and learn about different species.
• The gardens boast a stunning collection of botanical wonders, including rare and exotic plants from various regions.

In addition, the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden serves as a popular recreational destination for both locals and tourists. The tranquil atmosphere, beautiful landscapes, and educational exhibits make it an ideal place for family outings, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful retreat within the bustling city. 

The Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens play a vital role in biodiversity conservation, education, and providing a unique recreational experience for visitors (Source: Collected)

Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden is a brilliant destination if you want to get away from all the hustle and bustle of the hectic city life. And to make your visit to the zoo even more exciting, we will show you a bunch of exciting things to experience here.

1. Start your day early and arrive at the zoo when it opens at 7:00 am. This will give you plenty of time to explore the zoo and botanical gardens.

The Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens opens at 7:00 am and closes at 6:00 pm. Arriving early will give you plenty of time to explore the zoo and botanical gardens without feeling rushed. You can buy tickets at the entrance gate for VND 60,000 per person.

2. Begin your visit by exploring the animal conservation area. You'll see a wide variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, monkeys, and more.

The animal conservation area is home to a wide variety of animals from all over the world. You'll see tigers, elephants, monkeys, and many other animals. Be sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery. There are also feeding shows for some animals such as elephants and giraffes that you can attend.

Source: Collected

3. After you've finished exploring the animal conservation area, head over to the plant conservation area.

Here you'll find a wide variety of rare and valuable plants from all over the world.

The plant conservation area is home to many rare and valuable plants from all over the world. You'll see species of cacti, ferns, and plants that have been imported from Africa and other countries. Take your time and enjoy the beauty of nature. There are also guided tours available for visitors who want to learn more about the plants.

4. Take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch in the orchid garden. This is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.

The orchid garden is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of nature. It's a perfect spot for a picnic lunch or just to sit and enjoy the scenery. There are also food stalls available if you don't want to bring your own food.

Source: Collected

5. After lunch, head over to the amusement park area. Here you'll find rides and attractions for all ages.

The amusement park area is home to many rides and attractions for all ages. There are rides for children as well as adults, so everyone can have fun. Some popular rides include bumper cars, roller coasters, and water rides.

Source: Collected

6. End your day by exploring the rest of the botanical gardens. There are many beautiful plants and flowers to see, so take your time and enjoy the scenery.

The rest of the botanical gardens is home to many beautiful plants and flowers from all over the world. Take your time and enjoy the scenery as you explore this beautiful place. There are also benches available if you want to sit down and relax.

Reference: Vinpearl.com

Photo: Collected

Vietnam is a marvelous travel destination for all. Karst topography, stunning bays, thrilling caves, colorful markets, and sizzling nightlife are the fascinating elements that have made Vietnam a traveler’s paradise. And this paradise offers a plethora of things to do in Vietnam.

Before you get jumbled up completely, we have compiled a list of the most interesting things to do and see in Vietnam. From kayaking to cave crawling, and from hiking to shopping, the list is endless and all-embracing.

Scroll down to learn about all the super-fun things to do in Vietnam that will make the vacation awe-inspiring and invigorating.

1. Cruising and Kayaking in Halong Bay

Locally known as the ‘descending dragons’, the Halong Bay has plush green islands scattered all over. Apart from enjoying the charming beauty of the place, cruising in an antique Chinese junk and kayaking in the bay area are some of the thrilling things to do in Vietnam with friends.

2. Cruising in Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta presents an idyllic picture of rustic and scenic rural landscape of the country and is, certainly, one of most alluring tourist attractions in Vietnam. Cruising through this scenic deltaic creek is one of the popular and best things to do in South Vietnam. It is a perfect delight for travelers to sail in a traditional Vietnamese boat in the Mekong Delta.

3. Feast on Pho

Pho, a signature dish in Vietnam, is made up of rice noodles, broth, herbs, vegetables, and meat. To relish the most authentic and sumptuous taste, one must try Pho at famous restaurants in Vietnam.

4. Crawling through the Cu Chi Tunnel Network

Cu Chi is known for the spectacular underground tunnel network, built during the French and American War in 1940. This 250 km long tunnel web was constructed for communication purpose and consisted of hidden routes and trapped doors for a safe escape to the nearby rivers, streams, and canals. Many of the tunnels have now been expanded and opened for tourists. People can actually crawl through them and get a feel of the bygone days – how locals used to hide in such a choking set up.

5. Living with the historical exhibits in Hỏa Lò Prison

Ironically known as Hỏa Lò Prison, this is a heritage site where political prisoners were kept during American War. Also known as Hanoi Hilton, this is one of the most frequented tourist attractions in Vietnam. People visit Hilton prison to see various items related to Vietnamese struggle during the various wars. The prison-turned-museum is a delight for the photographers and history enthusiasts.

6. Enjoying the musical extravaganza at Saigon Opera House

For music lovers and enthusiasts, include an opera show at Saigon Opera House in the Vietnam tour itinerary. Built in 1897, this building was the former assembly house of South Vietnam. The building displays superb style of French Colonial design.

Visiting the Saigon Opera House and watching one of the mesmerizing shows of Ho Chi Minh City Ballet Symphony Orchestra and Opera are certainly among the best things to do in Vietnam.

7. Enjoying the sizzling nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City

Sizzling pubs, loud party music, DJ, bands, and sumptuous food sum up the nightlife scene of Ho Chi Minh City. From swanky pubs to cheap bars, the city offers something for people of all tastes & pocket sizes. Chilling out with wine & amazing music is among the fun things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.

8. Hiking & cycling at Mai Chau: Relax, refresh, rejuvenate, repeat

Mai Chau is a scenic countryside, far away from the bustles of Hanoi. The verdant peaks, rolling paddy fields, traditional thatched roof houses, winding paths, and serenity of the surroundings attract people from all over the world. Hiking up to the hills for a marvellous view and cycling through the village are among the most fascinating things to do in Vietnam.

9. Shopping for the best of silk materials in Hoi An

Picturesque Hoi An is known globally for skillful tailors and silk weavers. Travelers visiting this coastal town can go for shopping silk products, such as dresses, cloth, and scarves. The narrow lanes and busy streets of Hoi An are lined with numerous local shops. The shopping scene is dominated by super talented tailors who are pro and extremely quick in stitching customized apparels, shirts, suits, and shoes at unbelievably reasonable price.

10. Crazy shopping till you drop

People exploring Vietnam can enjoy crazy shopping at various places for silk cloth, cosmetics, souvenirs, pearl, handicrafts, terracotta & ceramic items, and spices. Shopping for these items at the various tourist attractions is among the best things to do in Vietnam for a week vacation.

• Reaching Out in Hoi An: Local handmade decors and toys
• Lemongrass House in Nha Trang: Face masks, creams, and scrubs
• Nguyen Nga Centre: Bookmarks, hand painted card,s and apparels
• Phu Quoc Pearl: Pearls of every color
• Saigon Kitsch in Ho Chi Minh City: Coasters, lamps, coffee mugs, and wall hangings

How To Reach Vietnam

By Air
Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) is the most important airport. Flights offered by major international airlines, such as AirAsia, Qantas, Air France, and Lufthansa, land here.

By Rail
Vietnam is well connected with China by rail network.

By Road
Vietnam has good road connectivity with neighbouring nations, namely Cambodia and Laos.

 

Source: TravelTriangle

Whatever you expect from Da Nang, you’re in for a surprise. Framed by mountains and embraced by the Han River and the East Sea, Da Nang is a rising star in the region. There’s a lot to take in.

The sandy sweep of My Khe beach — lined with new hotels, seafood halls, and fishing boats — leads the eye to where the statue of Linh Ung stands serenely overlooking the waves. The old city centre with its overflowing markets and hushed pagodas still functions, just a few streets away from hipster cafes and design boutiques. Just when you think it’s all breathless forward motion, a moment of local life peels back the paint to reveal Da Nang’s easy, laidback culture. Here’s how to nail your first visit. 

Hit the beach

Start by getting some sand in your toes. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to join or observe crowds of cheerful Vietnamese exercising and swimming in the soft sunlight at My Khe beach. At any time of day, you can test your balance with surfing, SUP and other watersports, or simply grab a lounger spread out — it’s up to you.

Pay a visit to Marble Mountains

Just before 7am is the perfect time to make your way up the sheer steps at Marble Mountains. This compelling collection of pagodas set atop a marble will welcome throngs of visitors later in the day, but still feels fresh and sacred at sunrise. Wander around photogenic pagodas, feel cool currents of air in ancient caves, and climb to the lookouts for panoramic views. 

TIP: If you enjoy visiting pagodas, you may like to make the 15-minute drive out to Linh Ung Pagoda, an enormous complex with a towering statue of Lady Buddha which is said to protect Da Nang from storms and bad weather. For a unique local experience, search for Tuong Quang Pagoda in town.

Go cafe-hopping in town

Every Vietnamese city has its favourite cafes. Some are for long, long catch-ups over cups of drip-filter coffee on the sidewalk, some are for long, long catch-ups over drip-filter coffee in a retro-chic setting, and some are for long, long catch-ups over artisanal coffee in cool industrial spaces. Check out Cafe Long, Nam House, and 43 Factory, for a sampler.

Soak up some culture at Cham Museum

Museum lovers, you’re in luck. The Cham Museum of Sculpture, one of the country’s top museums, claims a breezy spot along the western Han riverbank. You don’t have to be into archeology to appreciate the beauty of these stone pieces, sourced from former Champa sites in My Son, Tra Kieu, Dong Duong and Thap Mam. The original building, dating back to 1915 and expanded in the 1930s and 2002, is a work of art in itself. 

Sample Quang Nam specialties

We hope you come hungry (or ravenous) because Da Nang’s cuisine is a showcase of Central Vietnam’s top hits. Don’t miss a bowl of life-changing mì Quảng noodles in peanut and pork broth, savoury Hue dumplings such as bánh bèo and bánh nậm, and aromatic fish paddies and slurp-worthy noodles in bún chả cá.

TIP: Set in a beautiful green courtyard, Villa Ngon serves an excellent, all-you-can-eat menu of delicate Vietnamese dishes for lunch and dinner. 

Take a stroll down Bach Dang St.

Here’s a mini walking tour you can do yourself. Start from the junction of Bach Dang and the Han River Bridge just before sunset. Work your way along the water’s edge, passing some of the city’s most striking modern and colonial architecture, great souvenir shops, pavement cafes and marble sculptures on the way. After, treat yourself glass noodles with fresh crab for dinner at Madame Han.

Hoof it over Hai Van Pass

The name Hai Van translates into ‘ocean cloud’, so — surprise, surprise — you can expect a lot of ocean views and misty peaks on this 21km stretch of asphalt that climbs, twists and snakes its way over the mountains into Hue. At its highest point, Hai Van Pass reaches 496 metres above sea level. Motorbike is the ideal to take in the spectacular coastal scenery: jade seas, jungle-covered hills and rocky outcrops. Feeling adventurous? You can also cycle or ride the train. 

Try avocado ice-cream

Cho Bac My An is a small-ish market in Da Nang filled with tidy stalls piled high with fruits, vegetables, dry goods and more. Duck inside the market to locate one special avocado ice-cream (kem bơ) stall, loved by Da Nang’s youngsters for its creamy, cold coconut and avocado slush topped with jackfruit crisps. 

See the city's best bridges

Da Nang is sometimes called the ‘City of Bridges’, and its seven over-the-water structures are an iconic part of the city’s makeup. The striking yellow Dragon Bridge is the best known, however selfie enthusiasts may also like to strike a post on the Love Bridge: a wooden pier weighed with countless padlocks of every colour. Of course, the much-photographed Golden Hands Bridge tops them all, with its breathtaking views of Ba Na Mountains.

Sip sundowers at a rooftop bar

Da Nang has no shortage of breathtaking bars and swimming pools perched high above the beach and city skyline. After full day of exploring, a refreshing dip and well-mixed cocktail are a welcome tonic. After dark, the party continues at Da Nang’s craft beer bars, rooftop clubs, and sidewalk bia hois. If you need some inspiration, head over to 7 Bridges or The Top Bar at A La Carte Hotel.

Source: Vietnam Tourism