Vietnam, with its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich culture, is a dream destination for cycling enthusiasts. From the serene countryside to the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, the country offers a variety of biking routes that showcase its stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just looking to enjoy the ride, Vietnam’s roads, hills, and coastal paths offer plenty of scenic spots that will leave you in awe.
Here are some of the best cycling routes in Vietnam, perfect for an unforgettable bike tour:
1. The Mekong Delta: Cycle Through the River’s Heart
The Mekong Delta, often referred to as the “Rice Bowl” of Vietnam, is a vast network of rivers, canals, and lush countryside. Cycling through this region offers a unique opportunity to explore rural Vietnam and experience life along the waterways.
- Route Details: Starting in Can Tho, the Mekong Delta offers a variety of cycling routes that weave through small villages, rice paddies, and floating markets. From Can Tho, cyclists can pedal to destinations like Vinh Long, Cai Be, and My Tho, taking in the beautiful river views and enjoying the serenity of the area.
- Why Cycle Here: The relatively flat terrain and cool breezes from the river make for an easy and enjoyable ride. You’ll have the chance to visit traditional villages, stop at local markets, and enjoy Vietnamese cuisine in rural settings. The Mekong Delta offers a slow-paced, intimate experience with the local way of life.
2. Ha Long Bay: Cycling Among the Karst Islands
Ha Long Bay, known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters, is one of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonders. While most visitors take boat tours, cycling around Ha Long Bay offers a chance to see the bay from a different perspective, surrounded by both natural beauty and charming fishing villages.
- Route Details: Begin your journey from Ha Long City and ride along the coast to Cat Ba Island, a quieter and less touristy part of the bay. The route covers various small roads that hug the coastline, providing sweeping views of the sea, islands, and beaches. You can also cycle through Cat Ba National Park, where you’ll find more challenging terrain.
- Why Cycle Here: Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and cycling here provides a more intimate experience with the stunning landscapes. The routes are not too demanding, making it suitable for cyclists of all levels. You’ll have the opportunity to explore tranquil beaches and local fishing villages as you pedal along the picturesque coastline.
3. The Hai Van Pass: Vietnam’s Most Scenic Road
The Hai Van Pass is one of the most famous and scenic cycling routes in Vietnam. Stretching across the Annamite Range, it offers breathtaking views of lush mountains, misty forests, and the coastline. Known for its winding roads and stunning vistas, it’s a popular route for cyclists seeking a challenge.
- Route Details: The Hai Van Pass connects Hue and Da Nang, two of Vietnam’s most important cities. The route takes cyclists through dense forests, steep hills, and panoramic viewpoints where you can stop to take in the incredible views. The climb can be challenging, but the payoff is well worth it with sweeping views of the coastline and lush mountain valleys.
- Why Cycle Here: This route is famous for its dramatic scenery, but it also offers a sense of adventure. Cycling the Hai Van Pass is an exhilarating experience, with steep ascents followed by exhilarating descents. Once you reach the top, the views of both the mountains and the sea are spectacular, making it one of the best cycling experiences in Vietnam.
4. Sapa: Pedal Through the Terraces of Northern Vietnam
Sapa, located in northern Vietnam, is famous for its terraced rice fields and breathtaking mountain landscapes. The area is home to several ethnic minority groups, and cycling through Sapa offers a chance to experience the culture and beauty of the region.
- Route Details: The roads around Sapa wind through hills and valleys, offering cyclists the chance to visit remote villages, climb steep hills, and cycle past the stunning terraced rice fields. A popular route is the ride from Sapa Town to Muong Hoa Valley, where you’ll cycle through lush valleys and past traditional hill-tribe villages.
- Why Cycle Here: The beauty of Sapa lies in its dramatic landscape and its rich ethnic diversity. As you cycle through the valleys, you’ll encounter local tribes, stunning rice terraces, and high-altitude views that few tourists get to see. The moderate difficulty of the terrain is perfect for intermediate cyclists, but the views along the way will more than make up for the challenge.
5. Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park: Explore Vietnam’s Caves and Countryside
Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park is famous for its incredible cave systems, including the world-renowned Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world. This national park also offers some of the most scenic cycling routes in Vietnam, with lush forests, towering limestone peaks, and winding country roads.
- Route Details: Starting from Phong Nha Town, cyclists can head towards the caves or explore the surrounding countryside. The area is known for its quiet rural roads and natural beauty, as well as its rich biodiversity. Cycling in this area gives you access to some of Vietnam’s most stunning landscapes, with the chance to explore caves, enjoy the peace of the countryside, and visit local villages.
- Why Cycle Here: The roads around Phong Nha are relatively quiet, making it an excellent place for cycling. The combination of dense jungle, towering limestone cliffs, and caves offers a unique cycling experience. Cycling through Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park also provides an opportunity to visit some of the country’s most famous caves, making it a thrilling adventure for nature lovers.
6. Ninh Binh: The ‘Halong Bay on Land’
Often referred to as “Halong Bay on land”, Ninh Binh is home to some of the most scenic landscapes in Vietnam. With its towering limestone peaks, emerald rice fields, and winding rivers, Ninh Binh is a cyclist’s paradise.
- Route Details: The route from Tam Coc to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, is a favorite for cyclists. The route passes through picturesque villages, lush green rice fields, and impressive limestone mountains. You can also cycle around Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its karst formations and tranquil waterways.
- Why Cycle Here: Ninh Binh offers relatively flat terrain, making it accessible to cyclists of all levels. The stunning natural beauty of the region, with its impressive limestone cliffs and peaceful rivers, provides a serene backdrop for your ride. This route is perfect for those who want to explore Vietnam’s rural beauty at a relaxed pace.
7. Ho Chi Minh City: Urban Cycling Adventure
For a completely different experience, cycling through Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) offers a chance to explore one of Vietnam’s largest and most dynamic cities. While it may seem like an urban jungle, there are still plenty of hidden gems in the city’s outskirts, including parks, riverside paths, and local markets.
- Route Details: Start your ride from the iconic Ben Thanh Market, and explore neighborhoods like District 1 and Cholon (Chinatown). Cyclists can venture outside the city to explore the Cu Chi Tunnels or ride along the Saigon River for a more peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Why Cycle Here: Ho Chi Minh City offers a unique blend of busy urban streets and tranquil spots. Cycling through the city’s bustling streets gives you a firsthand look at Vietnam’s urban life, while the surrounding countryside offers a chance to experience rural life just outside the city.
Conclusion
Cycling through Vietnam is one of the best ways to explore the country’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. From the lush rice fields of the Mekong Delta to the limestone mountains of Ninh Binh, Vietnam offers a diverse range of cycling routes that cater to all levels of cyclists. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, these top cycling routes in Vietnam promise to offer an unforgettable experience.
