-
Hanoi, Vietnam
Start your journey in the bustling Old Quarter — get your bike tuned up at one of the many cycle shops near Hoan Kiem Lake. Stock up on supplies and try bun cha before heading south. Visit the Temple of Literature as a cultural send-off.
-
Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Known as 'Ha Long Bay on land', the karst limestone scenery around Tam Coc makes for spectacular riding. Cycle through Cuc Phuong National Park trails and grab a rest day exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu by bike.
-
Phong Nha, Vietnam
The Ho Chi Minh Trail runs through this region — a legendary bikepacking route with dense jungle and mountain passes. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is home to the world's largest cave system. Rest up at one of the friendly hostels in the village.
-
Dong Hoi, Vietnam
A coastal town that makes a great stopover between Phong Nha and Hue. Ride along the sandy coastline and enjoy fresh seafood at the local market. The quiet beach roads offer a welcome break from mountain passes.
-
Hue, Vietnam
Vietnam's former imperial capital is packed with history — cycle through the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel and royal tombs scattered along the Perfume River. Don't miss bun bo Hue, the city's fiery signature noodle soup. The Hai Van Pass just south is one of the most iconic bike climbs in the country.
-
Da Nang, Vietnam
After conquering the legendary Hai Van Pass, roll into Da Nang for a well-earned rest on My Khe Beach. The city has excellent bike-friendly roads and great street food along the Han River. Use this as a base to day-trip to the ancient town of Hoi An.
-
Hoi An, Vietnam
This UNESCO World Heritage lantern town is best explored by bike — the flat rice paddy roads surrounding the old town are perfect for cycling. Try cao lau noodles in the ancient town market and explore the Thu Bon riverside at dusk. Get any gear repaired here before heading into the central highlands.
-
Quy Nhon, Vietnam
A lesser-visited coastal gem with a beautiful bay and quiet roads — a rewarding stretch of coastal riding south of Hoi An. The Cham towers at Banh It are a great roadside stop. Fresh seafood here is exceptionally cheap and delicious.
-
Buon Ma Thuot, Vietnam
The coffee capital of Vietnam sits in the central highlands — a challenging but rewarding detour inland with cooler temperatures and dramatic scenery. Stop at a local coffee farm to see how Vietnam's world-famous robusta beans are grown and roasted. The highland roads offer a completely different landscape to the coast.
-
Da Lat, Vietnam
Perched at 1,500m, Da Lat offers cool mountain air, pine forests, and sweeping valley descents that bikepackers love. The roads into the city feature some of the best downhill riding in Vietnam. Fuel up on artichoke tea, avocado smoothies, and fresh strawberries at the bustling night market.
-
Mui Ne, Vietnam
The thrilling descent from Da Lat leads you toward this coastal resort town famous for its dramatic red and white sand dunes. A rest day here is well deserved — swim in the South China Sea and enjoy fresh seafood at the fishing village. It's an easy final push west to Ho Chi Minh City from here.
-
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Finish your epic ride in the buzzing heart of Saigon — navigate the chaotic but exhilarating city streets to the iconic Reunification Palace as your final landmark. Celebrate with a cold bia hoi and a bowl of banh mi at Ben Thanh Market. Ship your bike home from the main post office or sell it in the well-established backpacker district of Pham Ngu Lao.