Cycling Vietnam’s Highlights: from Saigon to Hanoi

Take a morning domestic flight to Lien Khuong Airport and begin your journey into Vietnam’s scenic Central Highlands. After a short transfer to the cycling start point, pedal through rolling farmland and peaceful countryside, passing tea and coffee plantations with a few gentle climbs along the route.

Travel through breathtaking highland landscapes dotted with colorful pagodas and lush tea fields before descending toward Elephant Falls. Pause here to explore the waterfall and visit the nearby pagoda for a glimpse into local culture.

Continue your ride uphill to Ta Nung, where you’ll discover a local family-run business specializing in weasel coffee production and traditional silkworm farming. The day ends with a comfortable shuttle transfer to Da Lat.

The day begins with a short transfer out of Da Lat, followed by a scenic ride toward Lac Duong on the outskirts of Bidoup Nui Ba National Park. The route rolls gently through the countryside, gradually climbing to an elevation of 1,500 meters. The opening stretch winds through fragrant pine-covered hills and fertile farmland, offering crisp mountain air and tranquil rural scenery. Along the way, enjoy sweeping panoramic views and dramatic mountain landscapes that extend toward the coastline.

A true highlight of the journey is the spectacular 29 km continuous descent—one of the longest downhill sections in Vietnam. As we descend, the scenery transforms from cool highland forests into dense tropical jungle and lush river valleys. After lunch, the terrain softens into rolling hills and peaceful farmland before the ride gradually approaches the coastal plains near Dien Khanh. A support vehicle will then transfer us into the city.

This morning begins with a scenic 1.5-hour transfer to the outskirts of Ninh Hoa, where we unload the bikes and set off on a rewarding ride through peaceful agricultural landscapes. The route winds past small local markets, quiet railway tracks, and rural villages before climbing the gentle Co Ma Pass. From the summit, enjoy sweeping coastal views before descending toward a beautiful beach, where a fresh seafood lunch awaits after a rewarding 26 km morning ride. To avoid the midday heat, we follow the most comfortable and scenic route available.

After lunch, we take a one-hour transfer to the outskirts of Tuy Hoa for the afternoon ride. Cycle along quiet coastal roads and paved paths beside the sea, passing shrimp farms, salt fields, and small fishing villages. Enjoy open ocean views and an easy ride while watching local life, from fishermen repairing nets to farmers working in shallow ponds. After crossing a long wooden bridge back to the highway, we finish the day with a one-hour transfer to the coastal city of Quy Nhon.

After breakfast and hotel check-out, we leave the coastal city of Quy Nhon and journey north toward Sa Huynh, tracing peaceful seaside roads through traditional fishing villages, shimmering salt fields, and thriving seafood farms where local life unfolds at an unhurried pace. A short transfer of approximately one hour brings us from the city center to a seaside village, where we begin pedalling along one of the region’s most scenic coastal routes toward Sa Huynh.

The ride follows quiet backroads with light traffic, refreshing ocean breezes, and expansive sea views, creating ideal conditions for a relaxed and rewarding cycling day. Along the way, we pause for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing the journey through picturesque coastal countryside toward Tam Quan. For riders with extra energy, the route can be extended beyond 65 km with an additional 10 km stretch to Pho Chau Village. After the ride, a shuttle transfer takes us to our beachfront stay at Sa Huynh Resort.

After breakfast, a short 20-minute transfer brings you to An Khe Lagoon for a full day of coastal exploration by bike. Ride through quiet hamlets and non-touristy countryside to My A fishing port, following smooth concrete and small asphalt roads along rivers, vegetable fields, and peaceful villages. Pedal past lush farmland, fish farms, rice paddies, and tropical palms, with scenic ferry crossings and rustic agricultural bridges adding to the journey.

Along the way, stop at pagodas and admire traditional old houses shaded by betel trees. Continue across Co Luy Bridge over the Tra Khuc River and follow quiet backroads to the historic Son My Memorial, commemorating the 1968 My Lai Massacre. After lunch in a small town, ride beside ocean and river paths to Sa Ky fishing port, where endless photo opportunities await. Leave your bike for a short walk through the harbor to observe the daily rhythm of local fishing life, then take a local ferry and continue cycling along peaceful rural paths to Binh Son township.

We ride directly from the hotel, pedalling through a charming small town toward the refreshing coastline. The route passes through vibrant fishing villages before a scenic ferry crossing to Tam Hai Island. After exploring the island, another short ferry takes us back to the mainland, where we continue cycling along peaceful sandy trails beside the beach toward Tam Thanh.

The journey then follows quiet riverside roads winding through picturesque countryside. Along the way, witness authentic local life — fishermen casting nets on the river, traditional ox carts, rice harvesting in the fields, and tranquil rural villages. The day concludes at the impressive Cua Dai Bridge, followed by a short transfer to the hotel.

Today is a full rest day, giving you the freedom to explore Hoi An or simply relax by the beautiful sandy beach.

After a short transfer to avoid the busiest coastal roads, begin the ride with a few easy km to warm up before reaching the climb: the Hai Van Pass, rising gradually to 480 metres, with a great photo stop at the summit. The long descent that follows is smooth and enjoyable, leading you to a lunch stop after an extended downhill ride.

In the afternoon, continue cycling along the coast towards Hue, passing fishing villages, lagoons, breakwaters, and quiet stretches of shoreline. On arrival in the former imperial capital, settle into your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening after a rewarding day of riding.

A morning bike ride through Hue’s charming villages follows picturesque scenic routes, passing elegant mandarin houses, centuries-old hamlets, stretches along the serene Perfume River, and gently undulating hills leading to the majestic Gia Long Mausoleum, the resting place of the first emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty. After the visit, we continue pedaling to the remarkable Khai Dinh Mausoleum, a striking architectural masterpiece in Hue that blends traditional Vietnamese design with Western influences such as French Baroque, Roman, and Gothic styles, alongside Asian elements inspired by Indian and Buddhist art. Renowned for its concrete construction, intricate porcelain and glass mosaics, and dramatic hillside setting, the mausoleum offers a fascinating cultural experience.

We then return to the hotel for a refreshing shower and check-out. After enjoying an authentic Hue-style lunch in town, we embark on a leisurely walking tour to explore the rich ancient and modern history of Vietnam’s former imperial capital. Later, board a private dragon boat for a peaceful cruise to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda. As the day draws to a close, we return to the hotel for another shower (with one room reserved for late check-out and evening refreshment), savor a delicious dinner, and finally board an overnight train to Hanoi.

Upon arrival in Hanoi at 6:00 am, our team awaits. Enjoy a scenic shuttle transfer to Hoa Binh Lake with breakfast on the way. Visit the Muong Cultural Museum before today’s cycling journey begins. Covering around 55 km, the route reveals beautiful landscapes of forested hills, quiet reservoir inlets, and small hillside farms. Ride across charming suspension bridges and follow smooth lakeside roads that weave gently along the shoreline.

The terrain becomes more rolling as you cycle up and down beside the lake, rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the shimmering water. After the ride, transfer to the peaceful Mai Chau Valley. On arrival, check in to a charming local homestay and enjoy an overnight stay surrounded by tranquil countryside and traditional village life.

Today’s ride takes you through some of the most gorgeous rice terraces, traditional stilt-house villages of the Thai people, rolling hillsides, and picturesque valleys. As you cycle deeper into remote countryside, the route climbs onto a high plateau surrounded by green forests, with stunning viewpoints overlooking lush valleys, mountains, streams, and winding rivers.

We then enjoy a gentle descent through the peaceful villages of Sam Khoe and Mai Hich, continuing along quiet backroads beside the Ma River. Lunch is served in a local family home, where you can enjoy freshly prepared regional dishes.

After lunch, the journey continues along Road 15C, a scenic mountain road that becomes increasingly quiet as you enter the breathtaking Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Here, the landscape transforms into terraced hillsides, bamboo groves, and traditional villages that are home to ethnic minority communities.

Begin the day at the scenic gateway viewpoint of Kho Muong Village, where the ride unfolds through gorgeous valleys and undulating terrain. Cycle pass rice terraces, lush bamboo forests, and breathtaking landscapes where mountains, valleys, and vibrant rice fields blend beautifully along the hillsides. Descend into small villages and follow winding backroads, including the picturesque S-shaped route that stretches through vast terraced fields before rolling gently toward Lang Tom Village.

From here, venture deeper into remote countryside, cycling through peaceful villages and alongside a sleepy river, with a local lunch enjoyed en route. Cross the Ma River on a narrow bamboo bridge, then continue along quiet village paths that connect one traditional settlement to another. Crossing the river once more, ride onward to Lang Muc, surrounded by rugged mountains and rolling hillsides, passing tiny ethnic hamlets and charming stilt houses along the way.

Today’s ride concludes in Cam Tu, a small town in Thanh Hoa. From there, enjoy a comfortable 1.5-hour shuttle transfer to Tam Coc in Ninh Binh, where the day ends amidst dramatic limestone scenery and tranquil countryside.

Spend the morning exploring Tam Coc, one of Tam Coc’s most captivating highlights, famed for its three caves, dramatic limestone scenery, and peaceful rural surroundings. Begin with an easy countryside ride through quiet villages, lotus fields, and winding paths beneath towering karst mountains. Along the way, pass grazing buffaloes and farmers working the fertile rice fields, offering an authentic glimpse into local life. Though the cycling distance is only around 10 km, the hidden charm and photogenic landscapes of Ninh Binh invite a slower, more leisurely pace.

Later, board a traditional sampan rowed by local villagers along the scenic Ngo Dong River, where vibrant rice paddies, tranquil waterways, and dramatic limestone peaks create a truly picturesque escape. After savoring lunch in Ninh Binh, return to Hanoi by shuttle. In the evening, enjoy a memorable farewell dinner, marking the perfect conclusion to your cycling journey from southern to northern Vietnam.

After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy some free time for relaxation or shopping at your own pace before your guide and driver transfer you to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure. Your journey comes to an end with wonderful travel memories.