5 best bike tours around Hanoi for 2024-2025

5 Best Bike Tours Around Hanoi: Cycling Through History, Culture and Landscapes

Hanoi is Vietnam’s vibrant capital and offers unique experiencesfor cyclists. Escape the busy city streets and discover hiddengems, historic sites and charming villages with these 5 best biketours:
West Lake and City Sights (Half Day): This leisurely ride is perfect for getting used to biking in Hanoi. Glide on the picturesqueWest Lake, a popular recreational spot among locals. Strollthrough the Old Town to absorb the energy of the city, and stopto admire ancient temples, such as Yushan Temple on Yudao Island. Explore the French Quarter, a charming mix of colonialarchitecture and lively cafes. This tour will provide a wonderfulintroduction to Hanoi’s cultural diversity.

Bat Trang Ceramic Village (Half Day): Step outside the city limitsand explore Bat Trang, a village famous for its centuries-old ceramic-making tradition. Cycling through picturesque ricefields and experiencing rural life first hand. Upon arrival at BatTrang, immerse yourself in the workshops and watch skilledcraftsmen create beautiful ceramic pieces. Try pottery and makeyour own souvenirs. This tour combines a scenic drive withcultural immersion.

Thayn Tay Phuong Pagoda (Full Day): Embark on a spiritualjourney through the countryside. This tour will take you to Thay Pagoda, a peaceful Buddhist temple nestled among peacefulrice fields. Learn about the pagoda’s history and significanceand marvel at its architectural beauty. Continue cycling to Tai Fong Pagoda, another architectural marvel with its uniqueoctagonal tower. Enjoy a delicious local lunch in a countryrestaurant with stunning countryside views.

Hoa Lu and Tam Coc: This adventure will take you to Ninh Binh Province, a charming area nicknamed “Halong Bay on theLand.” Cycling through picturesque valleys with limestone cliffs and rice fields. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the cradleof Vietnamese feudalism, and visit temples from the Dinh and Le dynasties. In Tam Coc, experience the beauty of “Halong Bayinland” by taking a boat trip to the picturesque emerald caves and towering limestone formations. This tour is the perfect combination of cycling, historical exploration and stunningnatural landscapes.

Bavi National Park (multi-day): For experienced cyclists lookingfor a challenge. This multi-day tour takes you through denseforests, winding roads and up to the majestic Mount Ba Vi, thehighest peak near Hanoi. When you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by stunning panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment. Explore the national park’s diverse flora andfauna and possibly spot some native wildlife.

Bonus Tip: Consider joining a homestay experience to truly immerse yourself in the local culture. Many tours offer overnight stays in traditional Vietnamese homes, allowing you to interact with families, experience rural life, and savor authentic home-cooked meals.

Choosing the Right Tour:

These tours cater to varying interests and fitness levels. Consider the following factors when choosing:

• Distance and Difficulty: Half-day tours are ideal for casual cyclists, while full-day and multi-day tours require more stamina.
• Interests: Tours can focus on specific sights like ceramic villages or pagodas, or offer a general exploration of the countryside.
• Pace: Choose a tour that matches your preferred cycling speed – leisurely, moderate, or challenging.

Packing Essentials:

• Comfortable cycling clothing and shoes
• Sunscreen and hat
• Water bottle
• Camera
• Cash for local purchases

With its rich history, charming villages, and stunning landscapes, Hanoi offers a unique cycling experience. So, saddle up,explore beyond the city limits, and discover the hidden gems that await!