Cycling Vietnam: Saigon to Hoi An
Bike from the highlands to the coast, exploring ancient sites, war memorials, and traditional Vietnamese villages
The route between Saigon and Hoi An has long been a path for trade and travel. Once part of the Cham kingdoms and later influenced by French colonization and war, it still connects communities where daily life depends on the land, the sea, and long-held local traditions.
This guided bicycle tour takes you through Vietnam, starting in the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City and ending in the UNESCO riverside town of Hoi An, known for its lantern-lit nights and well-preserved Old Town. Over ten days, the route leads through tea-covered hills, coffee-growing highlands, rice paddies, shrimp and salt farms, waterfalls, fishing ports, and quiet coastal beaches.
You’ll sample Vietnamese street food, swim in the sea, visit war sites, and learn how the landscape, economy, and pace of life shift from one province to the next. By the time you arrive in Hoi An, you’ll have a clearer view of the country - not just where it’s been, but how it continues to move forward.
Daily Program
Day 1: Arrival in Saigon
Ho Chi Minh City
Welcome to Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh City, still known as Saigon by many locals. Renowned for its bustling streets, French colonial architecture, and vibrant blend of tradition and modern life, the city offers an exciting introduction to Vietnam. In the afternoon, meet your cycling guides and support team for a bike fitting and trip briefing as you prepare for the journey ahead. A casual dinner is included this evening. (D)
Overnight in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh)
Day 2: Saigon - Bao Loc
37 mi / 60 km | Elevation gain: 500m
Start the day with a drive out of Saigon to avoid the busy city traffic, journeying toward the cooler landscapes of Vietnam’s Central Highlands. The cycling begins in the late morning as you ride through rolling hills, farmland, and scenic countryside en route to Bao Loc, a region famous for its tea plantations, waterfalls, and refreshing climate. The route features a combination of flat sections and gradual climbs, offering a rewarding introduction to the adventure ahead. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue cycling into Bao Loc before gathering in the evening for a welcome dinner with your guides and fellow riders to celebrate the start of the journey. (B, L, D)
Overnight in Bao Loc
Day 3: Bao Loc - Da Lat
31 mi / 50 km | Elevation gain: 950m
Today’s route climbs steadily into Vietnam’s Central Highlands. You’ll pass through coffee-growing regions and mountain farms as you head toward Da Lat, a city built by the French in the early 1900s as a retreat from the heat. The town still reflects its colonial past with villas, flower gardens, and a small lake in the center. Da Lat is known for its mild temperatures and is a popular destination for both Vietnamese and international visitors. After a picnic lunch, you’ll arrive in Da Lat in the afternoon and have time to explore before dinner. (B, L, D)
Overnight in Da Lat
Day 4: Da Lat - Nha Trang
62 mi / 100 km | Elevation gain: 1500m
Leave Da Lat behind and begin a long descent from the highlands to the coastal plains. The ride includes winding downhill sections with scenic views, then flattens out as you approach Nha Trang. This city is one of Vietnam’s top beach destinations, known for its long sandy shoreline and clear water. After arriving in the afternoon, you’ll check into your hotel and enjoy dinner by the sea. (B, L, D)
Overnight in Nha Trang
Day 5: Rest Day in Nha Trang
Enjoy a relaxing day at leisure in Nha Trang, taking in the city’s laid-back coastal atmosphere at your own pace. Spend the day unwinding on the beach, swimming in the turquoise waters, or exploring the vibrant streets and cafés around the city. Visit Nha Trang Market (Chợ Đầm), a lively local market offering everything from fresh produce to souvenirs and street food specialties. There is also the option to visit the historic Po Nagar Cham Towers, a sanctuary dating back to AD 781 and one of the oldest surviving Cham sites in Vietnam, offering panoramic views over the Nha Trang River. Lunch and dinner are at your own leisure today, giving you the opportunity to discover local restaurants and experience the flavors of authentic Vietnamese coastal cuisine. (B)
Overnight in Nha Trang
Day 6: Nha Trang - Tuy Hoa
50 mi / 80 km
This morning, depart Nha Trang and drive to the coastal fishing village of Vạn Giã, where local life begins early each day. Watch fishermen and seafood traders gather at roadside markets as the morning catch is bought and sold fresh from the boats. From here, begin cycling through charming coastal villages, with plenty of opportunities to share friendly “Xin Chào” greetings with locals along the way. Before lunch, take on the legendary Đèo Cả Pass, a scenic 7 km climb with an average gradient of around 5%, where the mountains dramatically meet the sea. On clear days, the panoramic coastal views are unforgettable, with deep blue waters, fishing boats scattered across the bays, and rugged cliffs lining the shoreline. After reaching the summit, enjoy a rewarding descent into picturesque Vũng Rô Bay, known for its floating lobster farms beneath the calm waters. Lunch is served at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, continue riding along the coastline with several shorter climbs, rewarded by sweeping views toward Mũi Điện Lighthouse, the easternmost point on mainland Vietnam. The day’s ride concludes in Tuy Hòa, a peaceful seaside city known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful oceanfront setting. Dinner this evening is at your own leisure, offering the chance to explore local dining options, though you are always welcome to join the Mr Biker crew for an authentic local meal and shared stories from the road. (B, L)
Overnight in Tuy Hoa
Day 7: Tuy Hoa - Quy Nhon
40 mi / 65 km
Ride along a quiet stretch of coast where you’ll see traditional fishing life in action. Quy Nhon is a coastal city known for its long, curved beach and relaxed pace. On the way, you'll pass small villages and see the region’s unique round fishing boats made of bamboo, still used by local fishermen today. You’ll arrive in Quy Nhon in time to enjoy a peaceful evening by the sea. (B, L)
Overnight in Quy Nhon
Day 8: Quy Nhon - Quang Ngai
50 mi / 80 km
After a short drive to escape the city traffic, begin cycling through the peaceful countryside and discover a different side of coastal Vietnam. Today’s route passes salt fields, shrimp farms, and small agricultural communities, offering an authentic glimpse into daily rural life far from the main tourist trail. Along the way, enjoy the chance to interact with friendly locals and take in the ever-changing scenery of central Vietnam. After lunch, transfer to Quang Ngai, a provincial city known for its blend of local culture and historical significance. In the evening, gather with your guides and fellow riders for a special farewell dinner to celebrate the journey and reflect on the experiences shared along the road. (B, L, D)
Overnight in Quang Ngai
Day 9: Quang Ngai - My Lai - Hoi An
37 mi / 60 km
The day begins with a visit to the Mỹ Lai Memorial, the site of one of the most tragic events of the Vietnam War. The memorial and museum provide a meaningful opportunity for reflection, offering historical insight and a deeper understanding of the human impact of the conflict. Following the visit, begin the final day of cycling through peaceful countryside landscapes. The route winds along quiet village roads bordered by lush rice paddies and small fishing communities, where colorful basket boats rest along the waterways. The terrain is mostly gentle, with a few rolling hills before reaching the final lunch stop of the journey. After lunch, where the cycling adventure officially concludes, transfer to the charming town of Hội An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautifully preserved architecture and lantern-lined streets. The evening is at leisure to begin exploring the atmospheric Old Town, where glowing lanterns and riverside cafés create an unforgettable setting. (B, L)
Overnight in Hoi An
Day 10: Departure from Hoi An
Your journey ends today in Hoi An. Enjoy a quiet morning with time for coffee, souvenir shopping, or a last stroll through the Old Town. Airport transfers to Da Nang are available, or you can extend your stay and explore more of Vietnam. (B)
Routes may change due to local conditions. Itineraries are only adjusted for safety or to improve the overall experience.
Hotels
Ho Chi Minh City: The Odys Boutique Hotel
Bao Loc: Sandal Vista Hotel
Da Lat: Hotel Colline
Nha Trang: Sunrise Nha Trang Hotel
Tuy Hoa (Phu Yen): Sala Tuy Hoa Grand Hotel
Quy Nhon: Fleur de Lys Quy Nhon
Quang Ngai: NewCC Hotel
Hoi An: Anmira Resort & Spa
Bikes

MTB- Trek Marlin 7, or similar
- Frame: Alpha Silver Aluminum
- Saddle: Bontrager Verse Short, stainless steel rails
- Brakes: Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes, 160mm rotors (front and rear)
- Derailleurs: SRAM SX Eagle, 12-speed (rear only)
- Tires: Maxxis Ardent

MTB electric bike- Giant Fathom
- Frame: ALUXX Aluminium
- Motor: SyncDrive Sport, 70Nm, Powered by Yamaha
- Range per Power: 80 - 100km
- Controller: RideControl One ANT+
- Display: RideControl Dash, full color LCD screen
- Battery: EnergyPak Smart 500, 36V Integrated Lithium-Ion EnergyPak
- Rear Derailleur: Shimano Deore, 10-speed, Shadow+
- Brakes: Tektro HD-M280, hydraulic disc, 180mm
- Tires: Maxxis Rekon 29×2.4″, Foldable, TLR, EXO, 60 TPI
Surface and terrain
Routes are carefully planned to avoid highways, using quiet roads and rural paths whenever possible. Terrain varies from rolling hills to coastal flats, with some moderate climbs in the highlands. All routes are regularly tested and updated to ensure safety, ride quality, and access to local areas rarely seen from main roads. Riders who prefer extra support on longer days or steeper sections can choose an e-bike option, which makes climbs more comfortable without changing the group pace or experience.
How to get there
Tour start:
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) - Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Tour end:
Da Nang International Airport (DAD) - near Hoi An, Vietnam
Reviews
- ★★★★★ Jackie S
An excellent trip from start to finish
What a fantastic experience. Our guides were so helpful and friendly and thought of everything. From the frequent food and drink stops, to rain jackets when we were unexpectedly caught in a shower to a beer at the end of a tough day of cycling. We couldn't have wished for a better support team! Mr Kim, Mr Khanh, Mr Huy, Mr Lua and Mr Hung were the best! Thanks for a great trip
























