24 hours wandering around Hue, discovering the cultural essence of the ancient capital.

Even though it's only 24 hours, every moment in the ancient capital is enough to soothe souls weary of modern life. So, if you only have one day, what would you do to fully experience the "soul of Hue"?

Morning: A gentle start with the flavors of Hue.

A gentle morning in Hue, like a classical melody, begins with a steaming bowl of Hue beef noodle soup. The rich aroma of the broth made from simmered bones, the spicy kick of chili paste, and the sweetness of the beef and pork trotters leave diners exclaiming in delight. A small, unassuming eatery on Phan Chu Trinh street, always bustling with customers, is the ideal place for tourists to start their exploration of Hue.

After breakfast, head to Muoi Cafe on Dang Thai Than Street. A cup of coffee is not just a beverage, but an emotional experience, where the bitterness of the coffee blends with the salty, creamy sweetness of the cream, reflecting the tranquil charm of Hue. Enjoying coffee in this peaceful setting, surrounded by moss-covered walls, you'll feel as if time has stood still.

Don't rush; take some time to stroll along the streets of Hue in the early morning. The first rays of sunlight filtering through the old flame trees on Le Loi Street, the slow, rhythmic tapping of street vendors – it all feels like a slow-motion film, transporting you to a rare state of tranquility.

Lunchtime: Immerse yourself in heritage and cuisine.

At midday, Hue is bathed in the brilliant sunshine of Central Vietnam. This is the perfect time to enjoy banh beo, banh nam, and banh loc – dishes that bear the distinctive mark of Hue. Each cake, wrapped in a banana leaf, is filled with flavorful shrimp and meat, and dipped in a delicately prepared fish sauce, as if embodying the simple charm of the countryside.

The journey continues with a visit to the Hue Imperial Citadel, the heart of the ancient capital's heritage. Along the cobblestone paths leading to the palace, visitors can almost hear the echoes of history, of the golden age of the Nguyen Dynasty. Moss-covered tiled roofs, elaborate decorative motifs on the pillars, and the peaceful scenery of the Imperial Garden create a truly poetic atmosphere.

When the sun's heat subsides, visit Bao Vinh Market, a small but charming market. More than just a place to buy and sell, Bao Vinh Market is also where visitors can experience the everyday life of the people of Hue, with stalls selling handicrafts and authentic local gifts.

Evening: Let your mind wander with leisurely strolls.

In the evening, Hue offers a unique culinary experience with its Hue-style pressed rice cakes. These thin, crispy, hot cakes, served with fresh vegetables and a sweet and sour fish sauce, are a familiar yet sophisticated street food.

After dinner, visitors must try Hue's signature desserts, a rare variety of options. From sweet mung bean, sweet potato, and corn sweet soups to the unique tapioca pearl and roasted pork sweet soup, each type of sweet soup is a highlight in the culinary landscape of the ancient capital.

To end the day, take some time to stroll along the wooden bridge over the Perfume River. The bridge, like a soft silk ribbon draped across the water, sparkles with colorful lights. In that space, visitors will hear the lively laughter of groups of young people, the distant sound of guitars, blending with the gentle sound of waves beneath the bridge.

A day in Hue is not just a geographical journey, but a journey deep into the soul. Every street corner, every dish, every person is like a musical note, harmonizing into a gentle symphony, leaving anyone who has ever set foot there with an unforgettable memory. Time may pass, but the emotions left behind from 24 hours in Hue will forever remain a beautiful memory in the heart of the traveler.

Text and photos: Ha Mai Trinh