Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Perfume River, Royal Tombs, Hon Chen Temple
Pick your date
Highlighted days have spots open. Grey days are sold out or not running.
September 2026
Loading live availability
Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 20 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Perfume River, Royal Tombs, Hon Chen Temple worth booking?
Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Perfume River, Royal Tombs, Hon Chen Temple is a 7-hour experience in Hue, Vietnam, from $82 per person. It scores 69 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 20 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 69 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (20)
- Duration
- 7 hours
- From
- $82 per person
The tour guide and driver will pick you up at your Hue hotel and move to the boat wharf, where you will experience the Dragon Boat on the Perfume River, see the banks of the Perfume River and feel the poetic beauty of Hu
What you get
About this experience
The tour guide and driver will pick you up at your Hue hotel and move to the boat wharf, where you will experience the Dragon Boat on the Perfume River, see the banks of the Perfume River and feel the poetic beauty of Hue. The boat docks at Thien Mu Pagoda, and begin to visit the pagoda. This is an ancient temple more than 400 years old. Here there is Phuoc Duyen Tower - a "Sacred 7-storey tower", considered a symbol of Thien Mu Pagoda. Continue traveling by boat on the Perfume River to visit Hon Chen Palace - the place with the most anecdotes in the Hue ancient capital complex, considered a sacred Cham heritage in the heart of the city. The boat continues to the Tomb of Minh Mang - one of the wise and righteous kings of the Nguyen Dynasty. The architecture of Minh Mang Tomb is majestic, in harmony with nature and contains many feng shui elements. At the end of the tour, our car will pick you up at Minh Mang Tomb
What's included
Included
- Bottled drinking water
- English speaking Guide
- Life jacket
- Boat Dragon
- Insurance Travel
Not included
- Food, drink, and other personal expenses
- Entrance Tickets: Minh Mang Tomb 150.000 VND/ 1 person
- Entrance Tickets: Khai Dinh Tomb 150.000 VND/ 1 person
- Entrance tickets at Hon Chen Temple 50.000 VND/pax
What you'll see and do
Hue
Pick up at the Hotel
10 minutes here
Perfume River
The tour guide and driver will pick you up at your Hue hotel and move to the boat wharf. Then Take a boat cruise where you will experience the Dragon Boat on the Perfume River, see the banks of the Perfume River, and feel the poetic beauty of Hue a boat cruise (30 minutes)
30 minutes here · Admission included
Thien Mu Pagoda
Thien Mu Pagoda is a majestic symbol of Hue, renowned for its seven-story pagoda overlooking the Perfume River. This historic Buddhist site offers serene gardens, a massive old bell, and stunning river views. As a significant religious and cultural landmark, it's a must-visit for any traveler exploring the rich heritage of central Vietnam.
45 minutes here · Admission included
Perfume River
Continue to take a 30 minute Dragon Boat ride along the Perfume River. See beautiful views of both sides of the river and immerse ourselves in nature
30 minutes here · Admission included
Hon Chen Temple
Hon Chen Temple, nestled on Ngoc Tran Mountain overlooking the Perfume River, is a unique blend of royal etiquette and folk beliefs. This historic temple, with its rich history dating back to the Nguyen Dynasty, offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Visitors can explore its intricate architecture, learn about its cultural significance, and immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere while enjoying breathtaking river views
30 minutes here · Admission not included
Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang
The driver will pick you up at Hon Chen Temple by car. Visit the Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang is a magnificent testament to Nguyen Dynasty architecture. This sprawling complex, nestled amidst lush greenery, showcases intricate designs and harmonious balance. Explore the ornate structures, serene gardens, and symbolic elements that reflect the emperor's reign. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance and gain insights into the rich history.
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Tomb of Khai Dinh
Then the car will take you sightseeing The Tomb of Khai Dinh is a striking departure from traditional Hue architecture. This opulent mausoleum blends Vietnamese elements with Western influences, creating a unique and visually stunning masterpiece. Its construction involved concrete, ceramic, and glass, a rarity for the time. Visitors are captivated by the intricate carvings, mosaics, and stunning views from its elevated location. While it may diverge from the classic Hue tomb style, it remains a fascinating testament to the era's artistic and architectural experimentation
45 minutes here · Admission not included
Hue
Drop of at the hotel
10 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Samtour Vietnam
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 20 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
9 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Traveler reviews
20 verified traveler reviews for Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Perfume River, Royal Tombs, Hon Chen Temple. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Fun and educational
Anna was an excellent guide. She spent more time with us at each stop than she needed to in order to give us a full history lesson. Riding along the river was a nice way to get to certain points without having to take a car. All stops were beautiful especially the last one at Khai Dinh’s mausoleum was especially exquisite. Again, Anna was amazing and a good sport despite us dragging her out to tour us in the blistering heat!
Response from the operator: Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for trusting and choosing Samtour Viet Nam. Thank you for taking the time to share your review. I hope you have meaningful and interesting experiences in Vietnam. Wishing you good health. Best regards, Cara.
via Tripadvisor
Informative, fun, and relaxing
Anna made our experience unforgettable and thoroughly explained everything above and beyond! She spoke so well even in the extreme hot weather so we can have a good time.
Response from the operator: Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for trusting and choosing Samtour Viet Nam. Thank you for taking the time to share your review. I hope you have meaningful and interesting experiences in Vietnam. Wishing you good health. Best regards, Cara.
via Tripadvisor
Exciting, educational and eye opening
We had a lovely and enthusiastic guide called Austin. He was great at filling us in on all the local history. We loved his more personal anecdotes about the Emperor’s eunuchs and ‘fairy’ behind the Hon Chen Temple. We also very much enjoyed the dragon boat ride along the perfume river that took us to the temple and Pagoda. Even the rainy weather couldn’t put a dampener on our experience.
Response from the operator: Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for trusting and choosing Samtour Viet Nam. Thank you for taking the time to share your review. I hope you have meaningful and interesting experiences in Vietnam. Wishing you good health. Best regards, Cara.
via Tripadvisor
Great day exploring the imperial tombs
Very well organised tour. Knowledgeable and friendly guide. Would definitely recommend this tour for anyone interested in learning more about the history of Hue and Vietnam.
Response from the operator: Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for trusting and choosing Samtour Viet Nam. Thank you for taking the time to share your review. I hope you have meaningful and interesting experiences in Vietnam. Wishing you good health. Best regards, Cara.
via Tripadvisor
A wonderful day tour in Ninh Binh
Our guide, Anna, was very nice and knowledgeable. She took us to three sites. The first one, Dragon Mountain, was one of the most beautiful places we have ever seen. The boat tour was also a wonderful experience. The meal was great and in a beautiful place by the river. On the whole, it was a great day, and Anna's professionalism made it perfect. We highly recommend taking the tour.
Response from the operator: Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for trusting and choosing Samtour Viet Nam. Thank you for taking the time to share your review. I hope you have meaningful and interesting experiences in Vietnam. Wishing you good health. Best regards, Cara.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $82 to $83
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 7
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 69
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Perfume River, Royal Tombs, Hon Chen Temple: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Hue.
How much does Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Perfume River, Royal Tombs, Hon Chen Temple cost?
+
Prices start at $82 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Hue usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Perfume River, Royal Tombs, Hon Chen Temple take?
+
Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Hue is not rushed.
Is Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Perfume River, Royal Tombs, Hon Chen Temple worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 69 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 20 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Hue, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Perfume River, Royal Tombs, Hon Chen Temple?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Perfume River, Royal Tombs, Hon Chen Temple suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Perfume River, Royal Tombs, Hon Chen Temple?
+
Around 7 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Hue can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Hue and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Perfume River, Royal Tombs, Hon Chen Temple start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Hue within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Hue?
+
On Outty we rank every Hue experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Hue: Imperial City Walk, Motorbike Tour & Private Car Options, Hue city Deluxe Group Tour (Daily Tour-12 pax max), Hai Van Pass Motorbike Private Tour with Mister T Easy Rider. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Hue?
+
Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Hue?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Perfume River, Royal Tombs, Hon Chen Temple.
Pick your date
