Solo Adventure Through the Historic Streets of Hue

A Day of Serenity and City Lights

Today was a beautiful blend of peaceful reflection and vibrant city life here in Hue. It’s amazing how this city manages to hold both such tranquil and energetic spaces. I started my day with a visit to a serene monastery nestled in the hills, and ended it strolling along a lively walking street by the Perfume River. It’s days like these that make me feel so grateful for the opportunity to travel and experience such diverse cultures.

My morning began with a hearty breakfast at Risotto Restaurant - Nhà hàng ngon uy tín tại Huế. I know, I know, Italian in Vietnam? But sometimes a girl just needs a break from noodles, and this place was highly recommended. Plus, they had a lovely outdoor seating area where I could enjoy the fresh morning air. After fueling up with a delicious frittata and a strong coffee, I set off for Thien An Monastery.

The monastery is located about 10 kilometers from the city center, up in the hills. The drive itself was stunning. The road wound its way through lush pine forests, and the air was so crisp and clean. It reminded me a bit of hiking in the Odenwald forest back home in Germany, except with a distinctly Vietnamese flair. As I climbed higher, the views became even more breathtaking, with glimpses of the city and the Perfume River in the distance. I even remembered to apply some sunscreen this time, since I forgot it on one of my previous excursions. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!

When I arrived at Thien An Monastery, I was immediately struck by the sense of peace and tranquility that permeated the place. The monastery is nestled on top of a hill, surrounded by pine trees, creating a serene and secluded atmosphere. The architecture is a unique blend of Asian and European styles, with a Gothic chapel and traditional Vietnamese elements. I spent a couple of hours wandering around the grounds, admiring the intricate details of the buildings and soaking in the peaceful ambiance. It was so quiet and still, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. I lit a candle and said a prayer for Hans and our families back home, feeling grateful for their love and support.


Explore the serene beauty of Thien An Monastery, a stunning nunnery in Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam, where spirituality meets tranquil nature.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quietest of places.

After my visit to the monastery, I headed back to Hue for lunch at Lạc Thiện Restaurant. This restaurant is famous for its Banh Khoai, a crispy crepe filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with a delicious peanut sauce. What makes this place even more special is that it’s run by a family of deaf-mute individuals. It was amazing to watch them communicate with each other and with the customers using sign language and gestures. The food was absolutely delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. It was a truly authentic and heartwarming experience. I even managed to pick up a few basic Vietnamese signs, which I’m sure will come in handy during the rest of my trip.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to set, I decided to take a stroll along Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street. This pedestrian street runs along the Perfume River and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The street is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, and there’s always something going on. As I walked along the riverbank, I watched as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, with hues of orange, pink, and purple painting the horizon. The Truong Tien Bridge, illuminated with colorful LED lights, looked especially beautiful against the darkening sky.


Discover the vibrant energy of Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street in Hue, Vietnam, where culture, food, and local crafts come together.

The atmosphere on Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street was lively and festive. Street performers entertained the crowds with music and dance, and vendors sold everything from souvenirs to street food. I stopped to listen to a traditional Vietnamese music performance, and I couldn’t help but tap my feet along to the rhythm. I also sampled some local street food, including Banh Trang Nuong, a crispy grilled rice paper pizza topped with various savory ingredients. It was so delicious and flavorful, a perfect representation of Hue’s culinary scene.

For dinner, I treated myself to a meal at Alma Restaurant. Located on the 33rd floor of the Meliá Vinpearl Hotel, this high-end steakhouse offers stunning panoramic views of the city. I decided to go all out and ordered a juicy Australian beef tenderloin, cooked to perfection. The steak was incredibly tender and flavorful, and the sides were equally delicious. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was elegant and sophisticated. It was the perfect way to end a wonderful day in Hue.


Experience culinary mastery at Alma Restaurant in Hue, Vietnam - where European elegance meets exceptional steakhouse delights.

After dinner, I decided to check out Le Gouverneur Bar, located at Azerai La Residence Hotel. This Art Deco-inspired bar is known for its extensive cocktail menu and its sophisticated ambiance. I ordered a classic Mojito and sat back to enjoy the live music. The band was playing a mix of jazz and blues, and the atmosphere was relaxed and convivial. I chatted with some fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories and laughter. It was a perfect way to wind down after a busy day.


Discover Huế's vibrant nightlife at Le Gouverneur Bar, where local flavors meet a lively ambiance in the heart of Vietnam.

As I walked back to my hotel, I reflected on the day’s experiences. From the peaceful serenity of Thien An Monastery to the vibrant energy of Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street, Hue had once again captivated me with its unique blend of culture and charm. I felt so grateful for the opportunity to explore this amazing city and to immerse myself in its rich history and traditions. It’s moments like these that make me realize how much I love to travel and to discover new places.

Tomorrow is my last day in Hue, and I plan to make the most of it. I’m going to visit Bao Vinh Ancient Town and The To Temple, two more historical sites that I’m really excited to explore. I’m also planning to do some souvenir shopping at Anh Silk Shop, so I can bring back some gifts for my friends and family. I can’t believe my trip is almost over. It feels like just yesterday that I arrived in Hue, eager to begin my solo adventure. But I know that I’ll be taking home with me memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.

Before I turn in for the night, I want to share one final thought. Traveling solo can be challenging at times, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. It forces you to step outside of your comfort zone, to be more independent, and to rely on your own instincts. It also gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, to follow your own interests, and to connect with people from all walks of life. If you’ve ever considered traveling solo, I highly recommend it. It’s an experience that will change you in ways you never thought possible.

Goodnight from Hue, and stay tuned for my final blog post tomorrow!

It's been an incredible journey, and I can't wait to share my last day with you all. Until then, xin chào!