Holiday Across Vietnam By Bike

Vietnam is a country of tropical islands, lush landscapes, and fascinating cities. Our cycling tours range with 13 nights, taking in famous sights and hidden gems as we pedal through this diverse and captivating country.

Arriving in Hanoi

Our journey begins in Vietnam’s vibrant capital, Hanoi. This city is a fascinating blend of old and new, where ancient temples and French colonial architecture stand alongside modern skyscrapers and bustling markets. After settling into our hotel, we take a guided walking tour to explore the city’s historic Old Quarter, where we wander through a maze of narrow streets lined with colorful shops and food stalls.

As the sun sets, we head to Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Here, we can admire the iconic Turtle Tower and watch as the locals gather to practice tai chi and enjoy the evening breeze. We then savor a delicious Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant, where we’ll have the chance to sample classic dishes like pho, spring rolls, and banh mi.

Cycling through the Countryside

The next morning, we saddle up and begin our cycling adventure, leaving the hustle and bustle of Hanoi behind as we pedal out into the surrounding countryside. The first leg of our journey takes us through the picturesque Ba Vi National Park, where we’ll be surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and tranquil villages.

As we ride, we’ll stop to visit local farms and families, learning about their way of life and traditional farming practices. We’ll also have the opportunity to sample fresh, seasonal produce and chat with the friendly locals. Along the way, we’ll stop for a picnic lunch, taking in the stunning natural scenery that surrounds us.

Arriving in Ninh Binh

After a day of cycling, we arrive in the charming town of Ninh Binh, often referred to as the “Halong Bay on Land” for its dramatic limestone cliffs and winding rivers. We’ll check into our hotel and then head out to explore the nearby Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here, we’ll board a small boat and drift along the serene waterways, passing beneath towering cliffs and through intricate cave systems. As we glide through the peaceful landscape, we’ll keep an eye out for the region’s diverse wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and water buffalo.

In the evening, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and relax in our hotel, preparing for the next leg of our journey.

Discovering Halong Bay

From Ninh Binh, we continue our cycling adventure, making our way towards the stunning Halong Bay. Along the way, we’ll pass through picturesque rural landscapes, stopping to chat with local farmers and explore charming villages.

When we finally reach Halong Bay, we’ll board a traditional junk boat and set sail into the turquoise waters, surrounded by thousands of towering limestone islands. We’ll spend the day exploring the bay, stopping to swim, kayak, and hike through the stunning scenery.

As the sun sets, we’ll enjoy a delicious seafood dinner on board the boat, watching as the sky transforms into a breathtaking display of colors. We’ll then settle in for the night, falling asleep to the gentle rocking of the waves.

Cycling through the Central Highlands

The next day, we bid farewell to Halong Bay and continue our journey, cycling through the central highlands of Vietnam. This region is known for its rugged, mountainous terrain, as well as its diverse ethnic minority communities.

As we pedal through the rolling hills and winding roads, we’ll stop to visit local villages, where we can learn about the traditional customs and crafts of the region. We’ll also have the chance to explore some of the area’s stunning natural landscapes, including waterfalls, lakes, and forests.

One of the highlights of this leg of the journey is a visit to the historic town of Hue, the former capital of Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we’ll explore the grand Imperial Citadel, the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, and the elaborate Royal Tombs, all while immersing ourselves in the rich history and culture of this fascinating city.

Coastal Cycling in Hoi An

From Hue, we continue our journey southward, cycling along the stunning coastline of central Vietnam. Our destination is the charming town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ancient streets, traditional architecture, and thriving arts and crafts scene.

As we ride, we’ll stop to take in the breathtaking views of the East Sea, and may even have the chance to dip our toes in the crystal-clear waters. We’ll also pass through quaint fishing villages, where we can observe the local way of life and perhaps even try our hand at some traditional fishing techniques.

Once in Hoi An, we’ll have the opportunity to explore the town’s historic Old Town, with its colorful lanterns, bustling markets, and ancient temples. We’ll also visit a local tailor, where we can have custom-made clothing or accessories created to take home as a souvenir.

In the evenings, we’ll enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Hoi An’s riverside promenade, where we can savor delicious local cuisine, listen to live music, and watch as the town comes alive under the glow of the lanterns.

Exploring the Mekong Delta

From Hoi An, we head further south, cycling through the lush, verdant landscapes of the Mekong Delta. This region is known for its intricate network of rivers, canals, and floating markets, and we’ll have the chance to explore it all on our bikes.

As we ride, we’ll stop to visit family-run farms and workshops, where we can learn about the region’s traditional agricultural practices and crafts. We’ll also have the opportunity to sample fresh tropical fruits and other local delicacies.

One of the highlights of this leg of the journey is a visit to a floating market, where we’ll board a small boat and drift along the bustling waterways, surrounded by vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

In the evenings, we’ll stay in charming riverside homestays, where we can immerse ourselves in the local way of life and enjoy home-cooked meals prepared by our gracious hosts.

Concluding our Journey in Ho Chi Minh City

After our adventure through the Mekong Delta, we’ll head to the dynamic city of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. This vibrant metropolis is a fascinating contrast to the rural landscapes we’ve explored throughout our journey, with its towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and dynamic cultural scene.

We’ll start our exploration of Ho Chi Minh City with a visit to the iconic Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Here, we’ll have the chance to learn about the history and significance of this important site.

We’ll then head into the heart of the city, exploring the lively Bến Thành Market, the grand Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the beautiful Jade Emperor Pagoda. We’ll also visit the War Remnants Museum, which provides a powerful and thought-provoking look at the impact of the Vietnam War.

In the evenings, we’ll have the opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife, visiting rooftop bars, lively street food markets, and bustling night markets.

As our journey through Vietnam comes to an end, we’ll have the chance to reflect on all that we’ve experienced – the stunning natural landscapes, the rich history and culture, the warm and welcoming people, and the unforgettable moments that have made this trip truly unforgettable.