Growing up in Hue, I’ve spent countless evenings sitting by the Perfume River, watching the Hue dragon boat glide through the golden light. Even today, the soft splash of paddles and the sound of royal court music still make me pause.
Because this experience is a big part of Hue’s soul, I want to help you understand everything about it; from prices and booking to sunset views and what to expect on board. So in this guide, I’ll take you through the full journey, using my local experience and the details travelers look for the most.
Before we begin, if you want a deeper look into Hue’s heritage and hidden corners, check out this helpful resource on exploring Hue’s history here: simple guide to Hue’s highlights.
Now, let’s start with what most travelers search for first – prices, booking details, and what a real dragon boat ride feels like.
Best Routes for Your Hue Dragon Boat Ride
1. Full-Day Dragon Boat to the Royal Tombs
Below is the detail of Hue city itinerary:
08:00 – Hura Cars’ driver meets you at your hotel and begins the journey to Hue’s most iconic landmarks around the city outskirts.
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Perfume River Dragon Boat Ride (Optional): You can choose to enjoy a peaceful sunrise cruise before starting the itinerary, or take the ride in the late afternoon to catch the beautiful sunset after visiting the main sites. Price: 250,000 VND/boat (maximum 10 people).
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Thien Mu Pagoda: Built in 1601 on the northern bank of the Perfume River, this historic pagoda is considered the spiritual symbol of Hue.
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Hue Imperial City: Discover the Citadel, Imperial City, and Forbidden Purple City – the former political and royal heart of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. After exploring, enjoy a delicious local lunch arranged by Hura Cars.
Afternoon – Royal Tombs with Two Architectural Styles
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Khai Dinh Tomb: A unique fusion of Eastern and Western architecture, constructed over 11 years using materials from France, China, and Japan.
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Tu Duc Tomb: A poetic complex featuring lakes, pine forests, temples, and tranquil royal structures dedicated to the 4th Nguyen Emperor.
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Thuy Xuan Incense Village: Visit the colorful craft village known for traditional incense-making and conical hats.
16:30 – Hura Cars brings you back to your hotel, concluding a full and memorable day exploring Hue’s royal heritage.
What is include in our Hue city tour
- Include: Travel Insurance, Clean and new car with driver (basic English speaking), A bottle of water/ person, pick up and drop off at hotel in city center
- Exclude: Entrance ticket for Complex of Hue Monument (Hue citadel, Khai Dinh tomb, Tu Duc tomb), Meals, English-speaking tour guide
Surcharge 250.000 vnd/ group for option 30 mins boat trip on the Perfume river.
Let’s book a one-day Hue tour with Huracars now.
2. Dragon Boat to Thien Mu Pagoda
This route is peaceful and meaningful for many visitors, especially those who want to explore the oldest pagoda in Hue. The boat usually drops you off at the riverbank below the pagoda, and you can climb the steps to visit the temple.
There was one time I arrived early in the morning. Mist covered the river like a soft blanket, and the sound of temple bells echoed faintly. It felt like the entire place was breathing slowly. That’s when I realized why people call Hue “the city of silence.”
Boat Options from Toa Kham Wharf to Thien Mu Pagoda:
- Big Dragon Boat (Catamaran): 800,000 – 850,000 VND/hour, maximum 30 guests
- Small Dragon Boat: 550,000 – 600,000 VND/hour, maximum 10 guests
3. Evening Dragon Boat with Traditional Music
This is the most atmospheric experience. As the sky darkens, you sit inside the boat while musicians perform ca Huế (Hue Traditional Folk Music), a nationally recognized cultural art form. The soft melodies, the glow of lanterns reflecting on the river, and the gentle movement of the boat create a truly emotional moment.
There are three sessions every night: 7:00 PM, 8:00 PM, and 9:00 PM. Each session lasts around 1 hour, though the actual performance time is usually 30–40 minutes. After the show, guests can release lanterns onto the Perfume River to pray for peace and good fortune. You may also see small boats approaching to sell live fish for releasing – a local tradition believed to bring blessings and prosperity. Purchasing is optional.
Tip: The front seats are always the best, you get the clearest river view and the best sound.
Dragon Boat Ticket Prices
Whenever visitors ask me about the Hue dragon boat, the first question is almost always the same: “How much does it cost, and where do I book?” Luckily, booking a dragon boat tour in Hue is simple, flexible, and suitable for every type of traveler. Whether you want a short ride along the Perfume River or a full dinner cruise with music, there is always an option ready for you.
Current Prices
Here are the most common prices you’ll find today:
- Traditional Music Boat: 120,000 VND per adult, 100,000 VND per child
- Afternoon Tea Cruise: 450,000 VND per person
- Sunset Cruise: varies by operator
- Thien Mu Pagoda Boat Tour: varies
Moreover, there are other choices you can choose to enjoy meal on Perfume river:
- Dinner Cruise (VIP): 550,000–580,000 VND online, 599,000 VND on-site
- Dinner Cruise (Traditional): 500,000–540,000 VND online, 599,000 VND on-site
As someone who grew up beside the Perfume River, I think the value is more than fair for what you get, especially during golden-hour rides.
Where to Book
You can totally buy tickets through Travel Agent like Hura Cars for the most convenient. The price will vary depending on what type of boat or which routes you choose.
You can also walk straight to the piers on Le Loi Street, especially Pier 5 Le Loi (Azerai La Residence) and Toa Kham Pier. I often tell my friends from other provinces that these piers always have boats ready during the day.
On weekends or festival nights, though, I recommend booking ahead. Hue gets busy during special events, and the sunset time slots fill up quickly.
What’s Included
Most dragon boat rides offer:
- A peaceful cruise along the Perfume River
- Views of iconic landmarks such as Thien Mu Pagoda
- Optional traditional music performances
- Lantern releasing on evening tours
This connects perfectly with the experiences every local knows:
- The Hue dragon boat always operates on the Perfume River
- Dragon boats pass cultural attractions along the way
- Some tours include royal court music, which is a major part of Hue’s heritage
Even the simplest tour still feels magical. When the river turns quiet and the breeze comes in softly, it reminds me of why I love Hue so much.
Best Time to Ride the Dragon Boat in Hue
After living in Hue my entire life, I can tell you that timing makes a big difference. The best months are March to April, when the weather is dry, the sun is gentle, and the river stays calm.
Sunset vs. Night Cruises
Sunset Cruises During sunset, the light becomes warm and golden. It paints the Perfume River beautifully. If you enjoy photography, this is the moment you should not miss.
Night Cruises At night, the lights on Trang Tien Bridge glow in gentle colors. The reflections on the water create a quiet and romantic atmosphere. Many couples choose this time for a date.
For me, sunset is always my favorite. The way the Perfume River reflects golden light brings back memories of my childhood—riding my bicycle along the riverbank while the sky slowly dimmed.
Seasonal Notes
From June to August, the heat can be strong. But the sunsets during this season are stunning and dramatic. If you like bold colors in your photos, this is a great time to ride. Also check the perfect time to explore Hue city.
Special time that you cannot book Dragon Boats
The Cung Nghinh Thánh Mẫu Festival or Worship of the Mother Goddess at Hon Chen Temple is held twice a year, during the 3rd and 7th lunar months. In these periods – especially during the festival in the 7th lunar month (08–10/7) – all dragon boats are reserved exclusively for ceremonial activities. Because of this, tourists cannot book dragon boats during the festival week.
What to Expect Onboard
Most dragon boats are simple but decorated with dragon carvings, bright colors, and small lanterns. Inside, you’ll find wooden benches, cushions, and usually a fan.
Some boats offer cold water, tea, or small snacks. Others are more basic. I always bring an extra bottle of water and a hat because Hue can be hot, especially around midday.
If you like taking pictures, sit near the front. The view is clearer and more open.
Local Tips for a Better Dragon Boat Experience
- Choose licensed boats: They’re safer and have clearer price lists.
- Wear light clothes: Hue’s humidity can be intense.
- Bring sunscreen: The river reflects a lot of sunlight.
- Avoid midday rides in summer: Trust me, as a local, midday heat can be harsh.
- Be polite when taking photos of locals: Fishermen usually appreciate a small nod or smile first.
Taking a Hue dragon boat ride is one of the simplest yet most beautiful ways to experience local life. As someone who grew up along the Perfume River, I still feel peaceful every time I sit on that wooden bench and watch the water drift past. Whether you choose a short cruise, a music trip, or a full-day journey, the river will always give you something memorable.