Indochine Chic
Luxury travel experiences crafted with elegance and authenticity.
INDCHINE CHIC · HOTEL PROFILE
Indochine Palace, Hue – A Pillar of Royal Elegance and Timeless Indochine Luxury
In the heart of Vietnam’s imperial capital, a living monument to the fusion of East and West
Indochine Palace Hue – a five‑star sanctuary inspired by Queen Nam Phuong, where the romance of a bygone era meets modern luxury. The hotel’s 17‑storey neo‑colonial silhouette has become a landmark on Hue’s skyline.
Indochine Palace is more than a hotel; it is a re‑imagining of Hue’s royal heritage. This pillar guide explores its fascinating history, Indochine architecture, world‑class accommodations, dining, MICE facilities, and why it continues to enchant travellers from around the globe. Whether you are visiting Hue for the first time or returning to rediscover its charms, Indochine Palace offers a base that is both luxurious and deeply connected to the city’s imperial soul.
1. Introduction: A Palace Reborn
For decades, Hue lacked a hotel that could match the grandeur of its Imperial Citadel and royal tombs. That changed in late 2011 with the opening of Indochine Palace. A five-star hotel offering a blend of colonial mood and modern-day features, it is surrounded by a lush exotic garden, setting an outstanding landmark in Hue with new standards of excellence. Located at 105A Hung Vuong Street in the city centre, the hotel is just a 20‑minute drive from Phu Bai International Airport and within easy walking distance of the Perfume River, the Truong Tien Bridge, and the historic Royal Citadel. Its central yet tranquil setting makes it the perfect base for exploring Hue’s UNESCO‑listed treasures – and for indulging in a stay that feels like royalty.
2. The Story of Indochine Palace: Inspired by a Queen
The concept of Indochine Palace is rooted in the life of Queen Nam Phuong (1914–1963), the wife of Vietnam’s last emperor, Bao Dai. Born Marie Therese Nguyen Huu Thi Lan into one of the wealthiest Catholic families in southern Vietnam, she was sent to study in Paris at the age of 12. Upon her return, she met the young emperor at a party in Dalat. Despite the court’s disapproval of her Catholic faith and Western upbringing, Bao Dai was determined to marry her. On March 20, 1934, they wed, and she was consecrated as Queen Nam Phuong – “Southern Perfume” – a title of exceptional honour.
Queen Nam Phuong was known for her elegance, intelligence, and modern sensibility – qualities echoed in every corner of Indochine Palace. Originally launched as a Best Western Premier property, the 222‑room hotel was conceived as “a property of elegance and grandeur, designed to reflect the romance of Indochine culture”. Over the years, it evolved into an independent icon, now ranked #17 of 186 hotels in Hue on TripAdvisor with a Travelers’ Choice Award.
3. Architecture & Design: Where East Meets West
The hotel’s three‑story base (topped by a 17‑storey tower) blends European granite columns, wide corridors, and tall arched windows with Oriental reliefs, intricate patterns, and traditional curved tiled roofs. This harmonious blend is the very essence of Indochine architecture. The hotel is surrounded by lush exotic gardens with Royal palm trees, manicured lawns, and a koi pond. The outdoor swimming pool – widely regarded as the largest in Hue – anchors the recreation area, with sun loungers, pool umbrellas, and a poolside bar (Les Bains). Every detail – from the exclusive fragrance in the lobby to the staff’s uniforms – pays tribute to Queen Nam Phuong’s refined aesthetic.
4. Guest Rooms & Suites: Spacious Sanctuaries
Indochine Palace offers 222 guest rooms and suites, each designed as a sanctuary of comfort and elegance. Rooms start from a generous 35 square metres – significantly larger than the average hotel room in Vietnam – and feature a thoughtful blend of classic Indochine decor and modern amenities.
| Room Type | Size (approx.) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Palace Deluxe Room | 34 m² | City/garden view, open bathroom, 42″ TV |
| Palace Studio | 45 m² | More living space, upgraded amenities |
| Indochine One‑Bedroom Suite | 68 m² | Separate living area, club lounge access, private balcony |
| Indochine Grand Suite | 100+ m² | Panoramic river/city views, two bedrooms |
Every room includes complimentary high‑speed Wi‑Fi, a 42‑inch LCD TV, iPod docking station, minibar, in‑room safe, bathrobes, slippers, and exclusive Indochine Palace toiletries. Guests consistently praise the comfort of the beds and the quality of the pillows.
5. Dining at Indochine Palace: A Culinary Coronation
La Brasserie – the hotel’s signature fine‑dining venue – showcases Western, Asian, and Vietnamese cuisine. The open kitchen allows guests to watch chefs at work using a wood‑fired oven and charcoal grill. The breakfast buffet is legendary, featuring a cooked‑to‑order station, Asian and Western dishes, and Vietnamese specialities.
Other venues include Le Petit Café for casual dining, Les Bains poolside bar, Le Bar with live jazz, and Au Rendezvous Lounge. 24‑hour in‑room dining is also available. As one Trip.com reviewer noted: “The chefs masterfully bridge the gap between refined French techniques and the complex flavors of the Hue Imperial court.”
6. Amenities & Facilities: A World of Relaxation
Le Spa is a full‑service wellness centre with sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, massages, body wraps, and a salon. The fitness centre is well‑equipped with cardio and strength machines. The outdoor pool – the largest in Hue – is flanked by sun loungers and a poolside bar. Additional amenities include free valet parking, airport shuttle (on request), concierge, laundry, and babysitting services.
7. Events & MICE: Where Business Meets Elegance
Indochine Palace is a premier MICE venue in central Vietnam. Le Grand Salon is a 398 sqm hall with a 9‑metre high ceiling. Additionally, 14 banqueting rooms, poolside areas, and gardens can accommodate everything from board meetings to gala dinners. Wedding packages include Indochine‑style decoration, royal Hue cuisine, photography, and a dedicated planner.
8. Guest Reviews: The Voice of Experience
Indochine Palace enjoys a 9.5/10 “Amazing” rating on Trip.com (service 9.7, cleanliness 9.6). On TripAdvisor it holds a Travelers’ Choice Award. Guests consistently praise the spacious rooms, huge pool, and breakfast buffet. “Staff went above and beyond,” “the huge pillows are so comfortable,” “one of the best breakfasts in the city” are common refrains. Some guests recommend requesting a pool‑view room for a quieter stay.
9. Location & Nearby Attractions
- Perfume River – 5‑minute walk; boat cruises available.
- Truong Tien Bridge – 1.1 km; historic iron bridge by Gustave Eiffel.
- Imperial Citadel – 2 km; UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Thien Mu Pagoda – 5 km; seven‑storey pagoda, symbol of Hue.
- Dong Ba Market – 2 km; local market for souvenirs and street food.
- Minh Mang & Khai Dinh Tombs – 9‑10 km; royal tombs.
- Phu Bai International Airport – 12 km (20‑minute drive).
10. Practical Information for Travellers
Getting there: Fly to Phu Bai Airport (1 hour from Hanoi/HCMC). The hotel offers an airport shuttle on request. Train: Hue Railway Station is 3 km away. Bus: intercity buses stop at the central station.
Best time to visit: Dry season March–August (excellent). Rainy season September–February (fair). Hue Festival (even years, April/May) is a major cultural event.
Price range: $90–450/night including breakfast and Wi‑Fi.
What to pack: Lightweight clothing, walking shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, modest attire for pagodas.
11. Sustainability & Community Commitment
Indochine Palace is committed to responsible tourism: energy and water conservation, waste reduction, locally sourced products, and support for local artisans and markets. The hotel works with local suppliers for flowers, fresh produce, and traditional textiles, ensuring tourism revenue benefits the wider Hue community.
12. Conclusion: A Palace for the Modern Traveller
Indochine Palace is a living tribute to the grace, elegance, and cultural fusion that defines Hue. From its inspired design – marrying French colonial grandeur with Vietnamese tradition – to its impeccable service and world‑class amenities, every aspect makes guests feel like royalty. Whether you are visiting Hue to explore the Imperial Citadel, cruise the Perfume River, or simply to immerse yourself in the city’s poetic atmosphere, Indochine Palace offers a base that is both luxurious and authentic. It is a place where history is not just preserved but lived – where the spirit of Queen Nam Phuong still lingers. As the hotel itself says: “The Indochine Palace is the pinnacle of luxury, refinement, elegance, and hospitality that only a true lord of a Noble House can orchestrate.” For travellers seeking an unforgettable stay in Hue, there is no finer address.
— The Indochine Chic Team
INdochine Palace gallery
