-- Hue --

The Forbidden Purple City was modelled after the Imperial City in Beijing and served as the residence of the Nguyen Emperors. The impressive citadel was nearly completely destroyed during the 25 days of Tet  Offensive in 1968, but has been partially restored and is once again open to visitors. Outside the city, the main attraction is a sampan cruise up the tranquil Perfume River to the seven imperial tombs (including Minh Mang, Tu Duc and Khai Dinh) and the revered Thien Mu Pagoda.

Vietnam map