A cycling tour in Vietnam is by far the best way to see the country (I know from experience; I’ve visited Vietnam as both a “regular” tourist and on a bike tour).
While most tourists just go to the famous places and drive or fly between them, a bike tour through Vietnam lets you experience the country at the perfect pace and uncover the country. From the high mountain passes in the north to the lush Mekong Delta in the south, there’s certainly lots to see.
But cycling in Vietnam is quite different to cycling in North America or Europe, and knowing a few insider tips can make all the difference to your experience.
This article draws on my own first-hand holidays in Vietnam in 2004 and 2024, as well as the interviews we’ve run with tour operators about their trips in the intervening years. Below, I share practical tips to help you have an awesome bike trip in Vietnam.
So, whatever form your cycling holiday in Vietnam takes, read this before you go!
Clare Dewey is a cyclist with a passion for travel. She set up epicroadrides.com in 2018 to help make it easy for cyclists to explore the world by bike. Today her mission is still inspiring cyclists to discover new places on two wheels - and doing what she can to make sure they have the best possible time while they're there. Clare has visited 50+ destinations around the world, many of them by bike.
Want to connect with Clare? Find her over on LinkedIn.
1. Plan your route carefully
It’s important to have a basic understanding of Vietnam before planning a trip, as its varied terrain makes a huge difference to your experience.
The north offers highland challenges like the Mai Chau and Sapa regions, while the central coast provides dramatic sea views and cultural heritage in towns like Hoi An. The south, with its flat rice paddies and river networks, is ideal for easier days in the saddle.
Cycling north to south through Vietnam has always been a popular option, as you get to experience a gradual change in landscape and climate. This is what I did in 2004, and there are more tips on riding from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in this article (coming soon).
As well as the question of which regions to cycle in, have a careful think about daily distances, road conditions, and where you’ll be staying. Getting these things right are important for ensuring a great cycling trip.
For further insights on route planning, head to our Vietnam hub page. Our overview to cycling Vietnam and our Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City guide are both coming soon.
Map of Vietnam
2. Be aware there will be (all sorts of) traffic
Traffic in Vietnam can be hectic, especially in the big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Scooters, cars, buses, and even animals share the road in an often chaotic but surprisingly fluid system. Just don’t expect any of the above to give way to you just because you’re on a bike.
Once you’re in the countryside, traffic levels drop considerably, and the roads become more peaceful. Still, it’s important to be vigilant, especially at intersections or in villages where people and animals may appear suddenly.
Ride predictably, use hand signals where possible, and consider high-visibility clothing to stand out. Adapting to local traffic patterns is key to staying safe.
For more tips on Vietnam’s traffic, don’t miss our overview to cycling Vietnam (coming soon).
3. Embrace the culture
Vietnamese culture is rich, warm, and deeply rooted in tradition. Not everyone will be lucky enough to be welcomed into a rural family’s home for tea, but you’re still likely to come across many opportunities to engage with local life, such as observing local ceremonies in a pagoda or visiting a market (more on that below).
When planning a Vietnam cycling holiday, factor in time off the bike to visit historical sites, temples, and museums, or just to chat with the people you meet. A simple “xin chào” (hello) can spark smiles and conversations. Understanding customs, such as removing shoes when entering homes or dressing modestly near religious sites, also helps ensure mutual respect.
We share info on Vietnam’s culture and how you can interact with it, in our overview to cycling Vietnam (coming soon).
A visit to a coconut factory in Vietnam is one of the early highlights of cycling Vietnam to Cambodia with Mr Biker Saigon (photo credit: Mr Biker Saigon)
4. Make the most of the variety of landscapes and culture
Vietnam offers a stunning range of scenery and riding conditions, often in the space of a single day. In the north, you can tackle misty mountain passes, while central Vietnam features sunny coastal roads and historic cities. In the south, peaceful paths through coconut groves and floating markets await.
The diversity in landscapes is matched by cultural variety, with each region offering distinct architecture, dialects, and food. This variety is one of the exciting parts a Vietnam adventure cycling – and in my mind it’s a key part of what makes it such a good (and popular) destination for a cycling holiday.
5. Take your time
The previous two points feed into the next one: take your time. Vietnam isn’t a country to rush through.
Part of the joy of a cycling tour of Vietnam is the opportunity to travel slowly and absorb your surroundings. By keeping daily distances manageable, you leave time for spontaneous detours such as a photo stop, an impromptu chat, or exploring a temple that catches your eye.
Slower travel also makes the whole experience less of a rush and more of a holiday.
The stunning coastline of Vietnam
6. Consider support
Going on a DIY, self guided cycling Vietnam trip is entirely doable. For some, the freedom of unsupported travel is part of the appeal.
However, support has its perks, especially for those who might not have travelled much outside Europe or North America, or for those with limited time to plan and/or travel.
Guided or semi-supported Vietnam adventure cycling tours offer things like route planning, mechanical assistance, luggage transfers, and the benefit of the chance to chat with your guides. This can be especially helpful in remote regions, where back up is tricky if you need assistance, or where you’re interested in learning more about the traditions, culture and history of an area.
I opted for a supported tour on our first trip to Vietnam in 2004. It was my first cycling holiday outside of the UK and it definitely took the stress out of the whole experience.
Whether you opt for support or not, knowing your options helps you tailor your trip to match your comfort level and goals.
Looking for a supported cycling trip to Vietnam? Check out our guide to cycling Vietnam with Intrepid Travel (coming soon!) and our article on cycling Vietnam to Cambodia with Mr Biker Saigon.
7. Drink enough fluids
The sun is hot in Vietnam. The humidity also makes it easy to get dehydrated, even if you’re just lying on the beach, let alone riding a bike! Staying hydrated while riding is essential.
Daily temperatures, particularly in the south, can easily rise above 30°C. Always carry at least two water bottles and refill regularly at cafes or roadside stalls. Coconut water (I’m not a fan but lots of people are!) and sugarcane juice are widely available and offer natural electrolytes. Consider packing hydration tablets or powders, especially on longer rides.
Be aware! Dehydration can sneak up on you quickly, especially in remote areas where water stops are less frequent. Make hydration a priority.
We share tips for fuelling long distance rides in our article on preparing for long distance cycling.
Panorama of Halong Bay, Vietnam, on a summer day
8. Eat (all) the food
Food is one of Vietnam’s greatest joys, so you’re in for a treat!
Each region has its own specialities – pho in Hanoi, cau lau in Hoi An, and banh xeo pancakes in the Mekong Delta. Meals are generally light, fresh, and packed with flavour. Rice, noodles, herbs, and vegetables dominate the menu, making it easy to eat healthily.
Street food is ubiquitous and often excellent, but be cautious with hygiene. Stick to busy stalls where food is freshly cooked.
Fuel yourself well, and your Vietnam cycling trip will be all the more enjoyable.
9. Explore local markets
Markets in Vietnam are more than just places to shop; they’re social hubs and windows into local life.
Morning markets bustle with vendors selling fresh produce, fish, meat, and herbs. Night markets come alive with stalls selling everything from street food to clothing and souvenirs. I also found that they’re brilliant places for a spot of people watching!
Stopping at a market during your Vietnam biking trip is a cultural experience in itself; definitely don’t miss the opportunity.
Floating markets in Vietnam (photo credit: Mr Biker Saigon)
10. Choose a good time of year
Vietnam’s climate zones can vary dramatically between regions and seasons.
Northern Vietnam is best between March and May or September and November, when it’s dry and warm. Central Vietnam sees the most consistent weather from February to August, though it can be hot. The south, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, is most pleasant from December to April.
Avoiding the rainy season not only improves road conditions but also ensures safer, more scenic cycling days.
A Vietnam cycling holiday over Christmas or New Year offers a unique perspective. Though these holidays aren’t traditionally celebrated nationwide, cities like Hoi An and Saigon embrace the festive atmosphere with decorations and public events. The weather should also be pretty good, especially in the central and southern regions. Hotels and restaurants in tourist areas often cater to Western travellers with special meals and festive cheer. It’s a great time to escape colder climates and celebrate in the saddle. Just book early, as it’s a popular time to travel.
For further insights on when to go on a bike trip in Vietnam, head to our cycling Vietnam destination guide (coming soon). Our article on Christmas and New Year cycling holidays might also be useful.
12. Extend your adventure
Another of the great things about travelling to Vietnam is that it’s easy to combine into a tour of other destinations in Southeast Asia.
Many cyclists choose to combine Vietnam with neighbouring Cambodia. A cross-border biking tour in Vietnam and Cambodia offers cultural shifts and the chance to experience historical treasures like Angkor Wat. Crossing the border by bike is surprisingly straightforward with the right visa and paperwork (one of the advantages of a tour organised by tour companies is that they will likely help you with this).
For further insights on cross-border riding between Vietnam and Cambodia, head to our article on cycling Vietnam to Cambodia. Our guide to cycling Singapore should also be useful.
Angkor Wat Temple (photo credit: Mr Biker Saigon)
What’s next?
Inspired to plan your own Vietnam cycling tour? You’re in the right place. Check out these Epic Road Rides guides to help plan your adventure:
Looking for more bike rides in Asia? Don’t miss:
Let us know in the comments if you’ve got tips to add or questions about planning your Vietnam cycling holiday. Read on and plan your next cycling adventure!
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Looking for an organised cycling trip?
If you want someone to help you plan and book your cycling holiday, fill out this form. We aren’t a tour operator/agent but we work with lots of people who are and will do our best to put you in touch with someone that can help (within 24 hours where possible)!Clare Dewey is a cyclist with a passion for travel. She set up epicroadrides.com in 2018 to help make it easy for cyclists to explore the world by bike. Today her mission is still inspiring cyclists to discover new places on two wheels - and doing what she can to make sure they have the best possible time while they're there. Clare has visited 50+ destinations around the world, many of them by bike.
Want to connect with Clare? Find her over on LinkedIn.
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