Today’s tour will begin at 8:30. Start the day with a visit to Dong Ba Market, the perfect place to get an introduction to Hue’s local culture. Mingle with shoppers as they haggle for the freshest produce and learn about the variety of goods for sale.

Then hop on a bicycle for a ride along the northern banks of the Perfume River. Cross through the old town of Bao Vinh, a charming town that was once a flourishing trading hub. Stop at cottage industry workshops to see artisans making traditional wooden house frames and paper products from bamboo.

Continue by bike, getting further off the tourist trail to discover beautiful rural countryside. Enjoy the scenery as well as the quiet atmosphere of this hidden corner of Hue. Arrive at Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest Buddhist pagodas in the area. Join the guide for a walk through the leafy compound, learning about the symbolism of its architecture and hearing about its chequered history.

Back on the bikes, pedal to a garden house for a glimpse into the past. These typical residences are one of Hue’s unique heritage features, with symbolic architecture and landscaping. Admire the beautiful landscapes and soak up the serene atmosphere of this traditional vestige.

The cycling day tour continues with a visit to Hue’s UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel. Explore this sprawling compound, learning about the former Dynasties that once ruled Vietnam, whilst viewing historic royal structures that have stood the test of time. Enjoy a late lunch at a restaurant inside the Citadel before pedalling back to the hotel for a well-deserved rest. (L)