Tourism Flourishes in Hue: New Heights for Cultural and Heritage Travel

Published on December 30, 2025

2025 has been heralded as a “golden year” for Hue’s tourism sector, with the central Vietnamese city welcoming a remarkable 6.3 million visitors, representing a 61% increase year-on-year. The city’s tourism revenue for the year has also soared, reaching an estimated 13.2 trillion VND, well beyond the initial target of 8 trillion VND. The growth is attributed to a series of high-profile events and improvements in the quality of Hue’s cultural and heritage tourism products, as the city has positioned itself as a safe, attractive, and friendly destination for international and domestic tourists alike.

Boosting Tourism through Cultural and Heritage Offerings

Hue, known for its rich history, ancient monuments, and vibrant culture, has long been a staple of Vietnam’s tourism scene. In 2025, the city has intensified its efforts to enhance its tourism infrastructure and offerings, particularly in cultural and heritage tourism. Significant upgrades to local attractions and the development of new tourism products have helped elevate the city’s appeal.

The centerpiece of this year’s tourism push is the National Tourism Year – Hue 2025, a series of events and initiatives designed to promote the city’s cultural heritage while fostering sustainable tourism. This event has drawn both international and domestic visitors, with a particular focus on showcasing Hue’s ancient monuments, temples, and imperial architecture. The city’s well-known UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Imperial City, are key attractions, and various cultural festivals have been integrated into the tourism calendar to enhance visitor experiences.

In addition to the historical sites, new developments and themed tours have brought added attention to Hue’s cultural legacy. These include enhanced traditional craft exhibitions, live cultural performances, and heritage tours designed to introduce visitors to the local way of life, from handicrafts to culinary experiences.

National Tourism Year – Hue 2025: A Major Milestone

The National Tourism Year – Hue 2025 has served as a major milestone in the city’s tourism development. As part of this event, a number of large-scale cultural and entertainment events have taken place, attracting tourists from across Vietnam and beyond. These events have not only showcased Hue’s historical and cultural significance but also highlighted its ability to host large-scale festivals and performances, including traditional music, dance, and theatrical performances that connect visitors with the city’s royal past.

The National Tourism Year events also feature culinary festivals, where tourists can explore Hue’s rich food culture, including traditional dishes like “Bánh bèo” and “Bún bò Huế,” both iconic to the region. These events have encouraged tourists to spend more time in the city, enhancing both the visitor experience and the local economy.

Hue’s role in the National Tourism Year 2025 has boosted the visibility of the city’s tourism sector, attracting both new travelers and returning visitors. The event’s diverse program, combined with the quality of its heritage sites and events, has helped reaffirm Hue as a leading cultural tourism destination in Vietnam.

Tourism Infrastructure and Accessibility Improvements

The city of Hue has also made substantial investments in improving its tourism infrastructure to accommodate the increasing number of visitors. Public transportation systems, including buses and taxis, have been upgraded to handle the rise in demand, while road conditions and public amenities have been enhanced throughout the city.

The city’s airports and railway stations have also seen improvements, with the Phu Bai International Airport offering more domestic and international flights, making it easier for visitors to access the city. The increase in both regional and international flight connectivity has played a crucial role in the surge of tourist arrivals to Hue.

The tourism sector has also seen an increase in accommodation options, with both international hotel chains and local boutique hotels opening in recent years. The expansion of hotels and resorts has provided more choices for tourists, from luxury accommodations to budget-friendly stays. The hospitality sector in Hue is expected to continue growing in the coming years to meet the demands of international and domestic tourists.

The Economic Impact of Tourism in Hue

The significant increase in tourist arrivals and revenue has had a positive impact on the local economy. The surge in tourism has supported local businesses, including restaurants, transport services, and retail establishments. Local artisans have also benefited from the rise in cultural tourism, with more opportunities to showcase and sell their products to tourists interested in local handicrafts and traditional art.

The growth of the tourism industry in Hue has also created more job opportunities for local residents, helping to boost the city’s economy and reduce unemployment. The tourism sector is now one of the main contributors to Hue’s economic growth, and the city is increasingly recognized as a hub for both leisure and business tourism.

Looking Forward: Sustainable Tourism in Hue

As tourism continues to thrive in Hue, there is a growing focus on sustainable tourism practices. The local government and tourism industry stakeholders are working together to ensure that the city’s rapid tourism growth is balanced with environmental and cultural preservation. Efforts are being made to protect Hue’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and ensure that tourism remains beneficial to both the economy and the local community.

The promotion of responsible travel, eco-tourism, and cultural preservation will be key to sustaining Hue’s success as a top tourism destination in Vietnam. With the ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, offer high-quality cultural experiences, and preserve the city’s heritage, Hue is poised to continue its rise as one of Southeast Asia’s premier travel destinations in the coming years.

Conclusion

2025 marks a golden year for Hue tourism, with record visitor numbers and tourism revenue that reflect the success of the city’s cultural and heritage-driven initiatives. The National Tourism Year – Hue 2025 has played a pivotal role in attracting tourists from across the globe, showcasing the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. With enhanced infrastructure, an increasing number of events, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability, Hue is set to remain a premier destination for both local and international tourists for years to come. As the city continues to thrive, it stands as a testament to the importance of cultural tourism in promoting local economies and preserving heritage.