The 9 Best Places to Go Cycling in Vietnam

1. Tam Coc/Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is an ideal destination for cycling. You'll have the opportunity to admire magnificent karst landscapes and explore a splendid part of the typical Vietnamese countryside. You'll pass rice paddies, vegetable fields, and ponds, while immersing yourself in daily Vietnamese life by discovering picturesque villages.

Cycling in Vietnam will never be easier than in Tam Coc, where you will enjoy flat terrain and charming paths away from traffic and closer to nature.

An activity not to be missed during a stay in the region! Don't hesitate to consult our excursions and tours in Tam Coc/Ninh Binh which include beautiful bike rides in the middle of these bucolic landscapes!

2. Cat Ba and its national park

Cat Ba National Park is located on Cat Ba Island, which you can reach by boat from Lan Ha Bay.

A great way to start your visit is with a cruise on a traditional junk boat through Lan Ha Bay. It’s just as stunning as Ha Long Bay but much quieter. After the cruise, you’ll arrive at Cat Ba Island, where you can spend the day or even a few nights relaxing on sandy beaches, cycling around the island, or exploring the national park.

One of the highlights is a peaceful bike ride to Viet Hai Fishing Village. The route runs alongside the sea and is a favorite among travelers for its scenic views. Inside the park, you’ll find plenty of greenery and wildlife, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is one of the nicest places in Vietnam for a leisurely bike ride.

3. Mai Chau

Just about four hours from Hanoi, Mai Chau is a peaceful green valley known for its beautiful scenery and traditional stilt houses. It’s a popular getaway, especially for those looking to slow down and take in the rural charm.

One of the best ways to explore the area is by bike. You’ll ride through rice fields, pass by Thai villages, and get a real sense of local life. The trails are easy to follow and offer a mix of nature and culture.

If you can, stay the night with a local family in a stilt house. It’s a simple but special experience that gives you a closer look at life in the valley.

>>>> Learn more about How to Get to Mai Chau from Hanoi and Back

4. Hue

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is known for its deep cultural roots and impressive history. One of the best ways to experience the city and its peaceful surroundings is by bike.

Start your day exploring the main sites in town, then cycle out toward the emperor’s tombs. Along the way, you’ll pass through small villages where locals make incense by hand, it's a lovely glimpse into everyday life.

Don’t miss Thuy Bieu village, famous for its grapefruit gardens. Riding through the shaded paths under the fruit trees feels calm and refreshing, a perfect break from the city’s buzz.

If you’re up for more, there's a scenic route near Chuon Lagoon (part of Tam Giang Lagoon), where you can cycle past the charming Thanh Toan covered bridge and peaceful waterside views.

>>> Read more about Hue: 

• Hue Imperial City
• Hue, Vietnam: 8 Essential Questions Answered Before You Visit
• Is Hue or Hoi An the Better Choice for Your Trip?
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Hue's Timeless Icon

5. Hoi An

Hoi An is ranked among Asia’s top five cycling destinations by Agoda, and it’s easy to see why. The town blends a beautifully preserved old quarter with peaceful countryside, all easily explored by bike

In the morning, ride through the historic center. Explore quiet alleys and stop by landmarks like the Fujian Assembly Hall, Phuc Thanh Pagoda, Tan Ky House, and the famous Japanese Bridge.

In the afternoon, head out to the countryside. About 30 minutes from town, Tra Que village welcomes you with its organic vegetable gardens and laid-back atmosphere.

You can also cycle to the coconut forest and continue on to Cam Thanh village, where canals and water palms give off a Mekong Delta vibe. If you’re in the mood for the sea, An Bang and Cua Dai beaches are just a short ride away - a relaxing way to end the day.

(Explore Top 3 Hoi An Beaches)

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6. Phong Nha – Ke Bang

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, a two-time UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to some of Vietnam’s most impressive natural wonders. From the stunning Paradise Cave and the underground river of Phong Nha Cave to Son Doong, the largest cave in the world, this area is full of jaw-dropping sights.

Cycling is a great way to take it all in. Ride through quiet countryside, past rice paddies and along the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail. Along the way, you might spot buffalo, geese, and local farms, giving you a real feel for rural life in Vietnam.

7. Buon Ma Thuot

Buon Ma Thuot, the capital of Dak Lak province, is the largest city in Vietnam’s Central Highlands and sits over 500 meters above sea level. Known for its strong coffee and cooler mountain air, it’s a great stop for travelers looking to unwind and explore scenic, less-traveled landscapes.

That said, cycling here can be challenging. The roads are steep and often rough, so it’s better suited for experienced riders in good shape. But if you’re up for the effort, the reward is well worth it.

8. Dalat

Dalat, known as the "city of eternal spring," is loved for its cool weather, hill scenery, and colonial charm.

Ride through pine forests and past old French villas. Start your morning at Xuan Huong Lake and the flower gardens, then cycle through quiet valleys filled with greenhouses and farms.

Don’t miss the old train station, the cathedral with French-made stained glass, or the historic 18-hole golf course, one of the oldest in Southeast Asia. 

9. Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is a great place for cycling, offering a mix of land and water. You can easily combine a peaceful boat ride with a bike trip to explore the region’s lush landscapes and local life.

From Ben Tre, start your day with a boat ride to Mo Cay, a quiet rural area known for its coconut trade. Then hop on a bike and explore this green island at your own pace, far from the crowds and surrounded by fruit trees and river views.

Things to know before cycling in Vietnam

1. Preparation and equipment

• Accidents can often be avoided with proper planning and suitable gear.
• If you’re bringing your own high-end bicycle, be aware that parts may not be compatible with local repair shops.
• Need to rent? Choose Honda bikes or scooters. They’re reliable, widely available, and rental shops usually offer quick services like inflating tires and checking brakes for a small fee.

2. Best time to go

• The ideal cycling season is from October to February, when the weather is cooler and drier. Avoid the rainy season for a more pleasant and safer ride. (When is the best time to visit Vietnam?)

3. Traffic and road behavior

• Vietnam has a high number of two-wheelers, but traffic rules are very different from what you're used to.
• Honking is common. It’s not aggressive, it’s how drivers signal their presence.
• Larger vehicles usually have priority, so be cautious as a cyclist.
• Legally, everyone drives on the right side of the road. In practice, traffic flows from all directions depending on congestion, so always stay alert.

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