Hanoi to Saigon in Vietnam By Bike

Bold, bustling, and vibrant – Vietnam By Bike offers an adventure of all kinds, from within its cities to its majestic countryside. With engaging and inviting locals, this nation promises an unforgettable cycling experience, as we journey from the northern capital of Hanoi to the southern hub of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City).
All set departures – Cycling Holidays
- Arriving in Hanoi
Our journey begins in the captivating city of Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital and a melting pot of ancient and modern influences. After checking into our hotel, we’ll dive right into the heart of the city with a guided walking tour through the bustling Old Quarter.
As we weave through the maze of narrow streets, we’ll be immersed in a sensory overload – the scent of freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee, the sounds of vendors haggling, and the vibrant colors of the local shops and stalls. We’ll stop to admire the beautiful French colonial architecture, including the iconic Opera House and the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, where locals gather to practice tai chi and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
In the evening, we’ll savor a delectable Vietnamese dinner, sampling the country’s renowned culinary delights, from the fragrant pho to the tantalizing spring rolls.
- Cycling Through the Countryside’s Vietnam
Fueled up and ready to go, we’ll saddle up our bikes and embark on our cycling adventure, leaving the bustling streets of Hanoi behind as we head into the lush, verdant countryside.
Our first stop will be the serene Ba Vi National Park, where we’ll be surrounded by rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque villages. As we pedal through the winding roads, we’ll have the opportunity to stop and interact with the friendly local farmers, learning about their traditional way of life and agricultural practices.
One of the highlights of this leg of the journey will be a visit to a family-run farm, where we can witness the process of cultivating and harvesting signature Vietnamese crops, such as rice, tea, and coffee. We’ll also have the chance to sample some of the fresh, seasonal produce and interact with the warm and welcoming locals.
Continuing our journey, we’ll cycle through lush, verdant landscapes, passing by rice paddies, lotus ponds, and charming hamlets. Along the way, we’ll stop to explore ancient temples, pagodas, and historical sites, immersing ourselves in the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable country.
- Exploring the Majestic Halong Bay
After a day of cycling through the stunning countryside, we’ll arrive at the breathtaking Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its thousands of towering limestone islands, emerald-green waters, and serene natural beauty.
We’ll board a traditional junk boat and set sail into the bay, taking in the awe-inspiring scenery as we cruise through the turquoise waters. Along the way, we’ll have the opportunity to explore hidden caves, hike through lush forests, and perhaps even go for a refreshing swim.
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One of the highlights of our time in Halong Bay will be a visit to the captivating Surprise Cave, a vast, cathedral-like grotto with stunning rock formations and intricate stalactites. We’ll also explore the serene Titov Island, where we can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the entire bay.
As the sun sets, we’ll enjoy a delicious seafood dinner on board our 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
Refreshed and rejuvenated, we’ll continue our cycling journey, this time heading south through the stunning Central Highlands of Vietnam. This region is renowned for its rugged, mountainous terrain, as well as its diverse ethnic minority communities.
As we pedal through the winding roads, we’ll be surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes, with towering peaks, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. We’ll stop to visit remote villages, where we can learn about the traditional customs and crafts of the local people, and perhaps even try our hand at activities like weaving or pottery making.
One of the highlights of this leg of the journey will be a visit to the historic town of Dalat, a former hill station known for its temperate climate, French colonial architecture, and thriving arts and crafts scene. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to explore the town’s charming streets, visit local markets, and indulge in the region’s delicious produce, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and coffee.
As we continue our journey, we’ll pass through the rolling hills and winding roads of the Central Highlands, taking in the stunning vistas and stopping to interact with the friendly locals along the way.

- Exploring the Ancient Imperial Capital of Hue
From the Central Highlands, we’ll head south to the city of Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic city is renowned for its grand architecture, including the imposing Imperial Citadel and the elaborate Royal Tombs.
We’ll start our exploration of Hue with a visit to the Imperial Citadel, a sprawling complex that was once the center of the Nguyen Dynasty’s power. As we wander through the intricate passageways and pavilions, we’ll learn about the city’s rich history and the significance of this important site.
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Next, we’ll visit the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, a iconic Buddhist temple that overlooks the Perfume River. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to learn about the Buddhist faith and its influence on Vietnamese culture.
In the afternoon, we’ll hop back on our bikes and head to the Royal Tombs, where we’ll explore the elaborate mausoleums of the Nguyen emperors. Each tomb is a unique architectural masterpiece, with ornate decorations, intricate gardens, and fascinating historical significance.
As the sun sets, we’ll return to Hue and explore the city’s vibrant streets, sampling local cuisine and experiencing the lively nightlife.
- Cycling Through the Quaint Town of Hoi An
From Hue, we’ll continue our journey south, cycling along the stunning coastline of central Vietnam until we reach the charming town of Hoi An. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned 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.
- Discovering the Mekong Delta
From Hoi An, we’ll 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 will be 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 Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)
After our adventure through the Mekong Delta, we’ll head to the dynamic city of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), the vibrant metropolis that serves as the final destination of our journey.
We’ll start our exploration of Saigon 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 Thà nh 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.
From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beauty of Halong Bay, from the majestic Central Highlands to the vibrant Mekong Delta, we’ve had the opportunity to explore the diverse and captivating country of Vietnam in a unique and immersive way. We’ve ridden through winding mountain roads, interacted with local communities, and gained a deeper understanding and appreciation for this incredible destination.
As we say our goodbyes and head home, we’ll carry with us the memories, the lessons, and the connections we’ve made along the way. Vietnam has left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds, and we know that this journey has been a truly transformative experience that we’ll cherish for years to come. | ![]() |