Bike Tours in Vietnam: The Best and the Rest

Vietnam is a premier destination for cycling enthusiasts, offering a diverse landscape of lush mountains, scenic coastlines, bustling cities, and tranquil countryside. Whether you're seeking a leisurely ride past emerald rice paddies or a challenging mountain ascent, Vietnam’s bike routes cater to all levels of experience. This guide highlights the best and most unique cycling routes across the country, ensuring you experience the very best Vietnam has to offer on two wheels.

The Best Bike Routes in Vietnam

Hanoi to Mai Chau

• This classic route takes you from the vibrant capital of Hanoi into the heart of rural northern Vietnam. As you pedal out of the city, the landscape transforms into rolling hills, traditional stilt houses, and lush rice fields. The highlight is the descent into the Mai Chau valley, home to the White Thai ethnic minority. The ride is approximately 150 km and is best done over two days.

Hue to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass

• Widely regarded as one of the most scenic coastal rides in Southeast Asia, this route covers about 120 km. The Hai Van Pass itself is a challenging climb, but the panoramic views of the South China Sea and the surrounding mountains make it worthwhile. Finish your ride in the UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An, renowned for its lantern-lit streets and delicious cuisine.

Da Lat to Nha Trang

• For those seeking a downhill thrill, this 140 km route descends from the cool, pine-covered highlands of Da Lat to the sunny beaches of Nha Trang. The ride features winding mountain roads, waterfalls, and dramatic changes in climate and scenery along the way.

Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta

• Escape the urban hustle by cycling south into the Mekong Delta. This flat, easy ride meanders through a maze of canals, fruit orchards, and colourful markets. Popular stops include My Tho, Ben Tre, and Can Tho. The delta is best explored at a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities for homestays and sampling local specialities.

Sapa to Lai Chau

• For advanced riders, the mountainous northwest offers Vietnam’s most challenging terrain. The route from Sapa to Lai Chau (approximately 80 km) traverses steep mountain passes, remote villages, and terraced fields. The weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to come prepared.

The Rest: Unique and Off-the-Beaten-Track Rides

• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
  • Cycle through one of Vietnam’s most spectacular natural reserves, home to ancient limestone caves and dense jungle. The quiet country roads are perfect for spotting wildlife and exploring rural villages.
• Pu Luong Nature Reserve
  • Located southwest of Hanoi, Pu Luong offers a peaceful alternative to the more popular Mai Chau valley. The undulating backroads wind through bamboo forests, rice terraces, and ethnic minority hamlets.
• Con Dao Islands
  • For a tropical getaway, bring your bike to the Con Dao archipelago. The islands feature quiet coastal roads, pristine beaches, and little traffic—ideal for a relaxing cycling holiday.
• Central Highlands Border Routes
  • The Central Highlands, bordering Laos and Cambodia, offer adventurous riders a chance to explore coffee plantations, waterfalls, and ethnic villages. Routes between Buon Ma Thuot, Pleiku, and Kontum are particularly scenic.
• Red River Delta Villages
  • Shorter day trips around Hanoi into the Red River Delta reveal traditional craft villages, ancient pagodas, and peaceful countryside, making for a cultural cycling experience.

Tips for Cycling in Vietnam

• Wear a helmet and high-visibility clothing, especially in busy areas.
• Be alert to local traffic customs and the prevalence of motorbikes.
• Carry sufficient water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
• Check the weather and road conditions, particularly during the rainy season (May to October).
• Respect local customs and always ask before photographing people or private property.
• Go with one of the amazing tours below to get the maximum from your limited time

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Vietnam’s diverse bike routes promise something for every cyclist, from coastal roads and mountain passes to peaceful rural tracks and bustling city streets. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a casual explorer, the country’s breathtaking landscapes, welcoming locals, and delicious food make it an unforgettable destination for your next cycling adventure.

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From the Editor:

Over 200 Bike Tours in Vietnam that you can join

The bike tours listed below are not ranked in order but the results are heavily weighted towards tours or operators that I can vouch for and can be confident of having a successful (if not amazing!) trip where you are looked after at least as well as the listing implies.
You can also use the filters to reduce the list (e.g. by guided tours, family tours, easy tours or many more)

Another source of good independent opinions is reviews from fellow cycle tourists. Why not share your opinion when you get home?