Cycling Through Hanoi: Old Quarter Pagodas & Red River Delta

Cycling through Hanoi offers an exhilarating way to explore the city’s vibrant history and serene landscapes. Riders navigate the lively Old Quarter, visiting iconic sites like Tran Quoc Pagoda and the Royal Wall, before crossing the historic Long Bien Bridge into the picturesque Red River Delta. Along the way, they’ll discover hidden gems and have the chance to savor the unique taste of traditional egg coffee. This immersive cultural experience promises an unforgettable adventure for any traveler.

Key Points

• Explore Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter, discovering bustling markets, the famous Train Street, and cultural highlights like Tran Quoc Pagoda and the Royal Wall.
• Cycle through the serene landscapes of the Red River Delta, crossing the iconic Long Bien Bridge and admiring local villages and rice paddies.
• Immerse in Hanoi’s dynamic energy and witness the daily life of its residents during the half-day cycling tour.
• Savor the unique experience of traditional egg coffee at the iconic Giang Café, a beloved local institution.
• The tour is led by an English-speaking guide and includes water, bike rental, entrance fees, and a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This half-day cycling tour through Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Red River Delta offers an exciting activity for visitors. Priced from €60.14 per person, the 3.5-hour tour limits group size to 15 participants and provides an English-speaking guide.

Pickup is at 41 Luong Van Can Street, with a transfer to bike parking at 24 Hang Buom Street. The tour runs at 7:45 AM or 1:15 PM.

Included are a bottle of water, egg coffee, city bike rental, entrance fees, and taxes. Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance earns a full refund. Restrictions apply for certain ages and abilities.

Vibrant Old Quarter and Famous Train Street

As visitors cycle through Hanoi’s vibrant Old Quarter, they’ll discover the historic charm of the narrow streets and bustling shops.

They’ll weave through markets selling local wares and glimpse the famous Train Street, where houses and shops nearly touch the passing trains. The lively scene offers a glimpse into the daily life of Hanoians.

Stops at the Tran Quoc Pagoda and Royal Wall provide cultural highlights, showcasing Vietnam’s rich Buddhist heritage and imperial past.

Visitors can explore Vietnam’s rich Buddhist heritage and imperial past at the Tran Quoc Pagoda and Royal Wall.

Throughout the Old Quarter, cyclists will enjoy the dynamic energy that makes this historic neighborhood so captivating.

Hidden Gems: Tran Quoc Pagoda, Royal Wall, B52 Lake

Leaving the vibrant Old Quarter behind, cyclists venture to the Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of Hanoi’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temples. Its serene gardens and elegant 11th-century architecture offer a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Next, they explore the nearby Royal Wall, the remnants of the Ly dynasty’s ancient citadel. Cycling past the tranquil B52 Lake, they admire the lotus flowers and reflect on Hanoi’s history.

These hidden gems showcase the city’s cultural and architectural diversity, providing a well-rounded experience for the cycling tour participants.

Cycling Along Long Bien Bridge and Through Red River Delta

Cyclists then cross the iconic Long Bien Bridge, a historic landmark that spans the serene Red River.

Cyclists cross the iconic Long Bien Bridge, a historic landmark spanning the serene Red River.

They’re treated to sweeping views of the delta’s lush landscapes.

The cycling tour offers several highlights in this area:

1. Traversing the bridge’s distinctive steel and concrete structure, a testament to French colonial engineering.

2. Pedaling through the bucolic countryside, past rice paddies and villages where locals go about their daily lives.

3. Stopping to admire the tranquil beauty of West Lake and its centuries-old pagodas.

4. Refueling with a traditional Vietnamese egg coffee at the renowned Giang Café.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tranquility at West Lake and Its Pagodas

After crossing the Long Bien Bridge, the tour makes its way to the serene expanse of West Lake.

Here, the group explores the tranquil pagodas dotting the shoreline. The Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of the oldest in Vietnam, stands out with its 11th-century architecture and serene atmosphere.

Nearby, the group visits other noteworthy temples like Quan Thanh and Phu Tay Ho, each offering a glimpse into the country’s rich Buddhist heritage.

The peaceful ambiance of West Lake provides a welcome respite from the bustling city streets, allowing participants to enjoy Hanoi’s cultural and spiritual traditions.

Enjoying Locally-Made Egg Coffee at Giang Café

The tour arrives at the iconic Giang Café, known for its signature egg coffee, a beloved Vietnamese specialty. Visitors savor this unique drink, made by whisking egg yolks into strong Vietnamese coffee.

The creamy, frothy texture and rich flavor create a delightful sensory experience.

The egg coffee experience offers:

1. An authentic taste of local culture.

2. A moment of tranquility in the bustling city.

3. A chance to connect with the café’s long history and tradition.

4. A refreshing break from the cycling tour before continuing the exploration of Hanoi.

Tour Inclusions and Important Information

The tour includes a range of essentials to enhance the cycling experience. An English-speaking guide leads the way, while a bottle of water and an egg coffee or local coffee at Giang Café are provided.

The city bike rental and entrance fees to attractions are covered, as well as the bike parking fee, travel insurance, and taxes. Travelers can opt for an additional lunch at their own expense.

Important information includes a 24-hour free cancellation policy, holiday surcharges, and restrictions on certain dates and participants.

Comfortable attire and no alcohol or drugs are required for a seamless cycling tour.

Preparation and Restrictions

Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for the cycling tour.

Participants should bring water to stay hydrated. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the tour.

The following items aren’t allowed:

1. Alcoholic beverages

2. Recreational drugs

3. Large bags or backpacks

4. Fragile or bulky items

While the tour offers optional extras like a cyclo ride or water puppet show, these come at an additional cost of $6 per person.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Bike for the Tour?

No, you can’t bring your own bike for this tour. The tour includes bicycle rental as one of the inclusions, so participants are expected to use the provided bikes during the cycling portion of the tour.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour has no specific restrictions on photography. Participants are free to take photos throughout the tour, though they should be mindful of respecting sacred sites and other visitors’ privacy.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can be customized to an extent, though the core highlights and inclusions remain fixed. Travelers can discuss any specific requests or interests with the tour operator before booking to see if accommodations can be made.

What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather During the Tour?

In the event of inclement weather, the tour provider will adjust the itinerary to ensure participants’ safety and comfort. They’ll explore more sheltered areas and indoor attractions, and provide rain ponchos if needed to continue the cycling portion.

Can I Request a Private or Smaller Group Tour?

Yes, small group tours of up to 15 participants can be requested. Private tours may also be available for an additional cost. Interested travelers should contact the tour operator directly to inquire about these options.

Final Words

Cycling through Hanoi offers an immersive cultural experience, navigating the vibrant Old Quarter, visiting iconic sites, and exploring the serene landscapes of the Red River Delta. The tour includes stops at Tran Quoc Pagoda, the Royal Wall, and the historic Long Bien Bridge, providing a unique perspective of the city. Riders can also savor the distinctive taste of traditional egg coffee, enhancing this unforgettable adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: