Around Hanoi: Top 10 Attractive Cycling Destinations

Around Hanoi: Top 10 Attractive Cycling Destinations

The Hanoi bike tour suggests exciting cycling destinations around Hanoi, where you can enjoy freedom, fun, and improve your health, all with just a bicycle.

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter of Hanoi is the closest and most suitable destination for those who want to “escape” on a Sunday but aren’t yet used to long-distance cycling. The Old Quarter mostly lies in Hoan Kiem District, covering an area of about 100 hectares and 76 streets across 10 wards. Cycling around the Old Quarter, you will immerse yourself in the traditional craft streets. In the past, artisans from surrounding villages Thang Long gathered here, forming specialized streets based on their crafts. Today, some roads preserve traditional products such as Hang Ma, Hang Tre, Hang Thiec, and Thuoc Bac.

Not only can you explore these unique craft streets, but you can also admire the old houses that line the streets. There are also dreamy roads with lush greenery, like Hoang Dieu, Phan Dinh Phung, or Thanh Nien Street, which is famous for its breezy atmosphere. You can also visit O Quan Chuong Gate – the only remaining gate of Hanoi’s ancient city walls (located on Hang Chieu Street). It stands as one of the five surviving relics from a golden era in Vietnamese history, resilient against both the ravages of war and time. The gate is a testament to the enduring strength and vitality of the Vietnamese people over a thousand years of civilization.

When visiting, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the magnificent moments of this thousand-year-old capital!

Biking to Bat Trang Ceramic Village

Bat Trang, famously known as the “Ceramic Paradise,” is a nearby and fascinating destination for cycling enthusiasts. Located just under 15 kilometers from Hanoi’s center, on the other side of the Red River, it’s an easy ride that won’t tire you out with long distances. The Bát Tràng pottery village lies along the banks of the Red River, in the Gia Lam District, on the outskirts of Hanoi. The name “Bat Trang” translates to “large yard” and the village has a history dating back to the Le Dynasty.

It is the oldest and most famous pottery village in Vietnam and a must-visit spot for both domestic and international tourists. Bat Trang specializes in a wide variety of ceramic products, both in style and form. One of the most exciting aspects of visiting Bat Trang is that you can directly observe artisans crafting intricate ceramic pieces, or even try your hand at making your creations.

When visiting Bat Trang in Gia Lam, you can’t miss exploring the ancient Bat Trang village with its unique and historical architecture. You have the opportunity to tour the village on a traditional water buffalo cart, soaking in the rustic, authentic atmosphere. Some notable historical sites in the area include the Van Van Ancient House and the Bat Trang Communal House. Van Van House, a wooden structure over 200 years old, is an architectural masterpiece featuring ceramic motifs, blue-glazed teapots, dragon vases, and molds for ceramic production from before the 15th century.

The Bat Trang Communal House is dedicated to the worship of the village’s patron deity and hosts various festivals throughout the year. If you visit the village during one of these festivals, you’ll get to experience the lively, unique cultural traditions.

At Bat Trang, you can enjoy browsing beautiful ceramic products at the village market or in the workshops of local families. A little secret: the locals here are incredibly friendly and welcoming. As long as you handle the pottery gently, you’ll have the freedom to explore and admire the creations. Moreover, you can even make your ceramic piece and take it home as a souvenir to remember your trip.

Tram Mountain

Tram Mountain, located about 30 kilometers south of Hanoi in Phung Chau Commune, Chuong My District, is an ideal destination for long-distance cycling enthusiasts around Hanoi. The journey not only challenges you with the distance but also presents a tougher terrain than flat roads. Once you reach the mountain, you can pause at a mid-point, spread out a thin mat, place a stone to make a small stove for roasting sweet potatoes, sip some warm tea, and fully embrace the vast, tranquil atmosphere of this “miniature stone plateau in the heart of Hanoi.”

The main pagoda area is spacious and airy, surrounded by brick walls. Upon entering the courtyard, to the left is Tram Son Tu. The pagoda is located on a high plot of land, with the foundation towering above head height when viewed from the courtyard. Built against the Tram Mountain with its front facing the Day River, the pagoda’s location follows traditional Vietnamese feng shui principles: mountains and rivers are harmoniously combined. The river brings water, which is symbolically associated with blessings. If you observe other pagodas, temples, or sacred sites, you’ll often find a lotus pond or crescent-shaped water body in front of the entrance.

This water feature, considered a source of prosperity, symbolizes abundance and favorable harvests for the community. The addition of the mountain behind the pagoda completes the ideal feng shui of “the mountain embraces the water,” creating a sense of stability, vitality, and positive energy.

Tram Mountain and its spiritual and natural beauty offer not only a physical challenge but also a profound experience for those seeking peace and connection with nature.

Co Loa Citadel

Co Loa Citadel is an ancient capital of the Au Lac Kingdom from the 3rd century BC and the state of King Ngo Quyen in the 10th century AD. It is the closest ancient citadel to Hanoi and a fascinating destination for those passionate about cycling and interested in exploring the historical roots of the country. Co Loa Citadel is located about 30 kilometers from the center of Hanoi, in Co Loa Commune, Dong Anh District. Once inside the citadel, you can choose to walk around, or if you prefer, you can continue with your bike to explore the area, as the citadel is quite large.

Inside the citadel, there are small villages with many families living there. Some notable attractions within the citadel include Ngu Trieu Di Quy, the Mi Chau Temple, Bao Son Pagoda, and the Cao Lo Temple.

Co Loa Citadel was built in a spiral shape, which is why it is also called Loa Citadel. Legend says there were nine spiraling walls, but today only three remain. The inner citadel has a circumference of 1,600 meters, while the outer citadel stretches 15 kilometers, featuring many unique architectural structures such as the Ngoc Well, the Cao Lo Statue, and the Mi Chau Shrine.

The Co Loa Festival is held annually on the 6th of January, so if you enjoy festive atmospheres, this is the best time to visit. The festival starts early in the morning with processions, sacrificial rituals, and a variety of traditional folk games. The festival lasts until the 16th of January, with the final ceremony being a ritual to honor heaven and earth.

Co Loa Citadel offers both a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history and an opportunity to experience local culture through its architecture and vibrant festivals. Whether you’re cycling, walking, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, it’s a destination full of charm and historical significance.

The Giong Temple – a Challenging Destination Around Hanoi

The Giong Temple is located on Soc Mountain, in Ve Linh Commune, Sec Son District. It is a historical and cultural complex that includes several sacred sites: the Trinh Temple, Non Nuoc Pagoda, the Thuong Temple, the Mau Temple (dedicated to the Mother of Saint Giong), Đại Bi Pagoda, the Chồng Stone, a stone stele house, and especially the statue of Saint Giong, which is made of pure copper. This entire complex has been recognized by the State as a National Historical Monument.

Upon entering the complex, you will first encounter the Trình Temple (also known as the Lower Temple), which houses a statue of the mountain god. The statue is cast entirely in copper and weighs 7 tons, radiating an imposing and dignified presence. Outside the temple, you will find an ancient banyan tree and a crystal-clear pond. Moving past the Trinh Temple, you’ll arrive at Dai Bi Pagoda, an ancient pagoda with old wooden plaques and couplets painted with gold, combined with the moss-covered, timeworn architecture. Across from Đai Bi Pagoda is the Mau Temple, where the statue of the Mother of Saint Giong is enshrined. The well outside the temple is also known as the Mau Well.

A little further up from the Mau Temple, you’ll reach the Thuong Temple, the final temple in the complex of four temples and pagodas at the foot of Ve Linh Mountain. This temple is dedicated to worshipping Saint Giong. Inside the temple, you’ll find the Đai Bai Hall, adorned with couplets, canopies, and crane statues—all characteristic features of traditional Vietnamese temple architecture. The Hậu Cung (Inner Sanctuary) houses a statue of Saint Giong made from agarwood.

You can either climb the stairs from the foot of the mountain to the top or take a vehicle up the mountain via the pathway built along the mountain’s slope.

Vietnam Ethnic Culture Village

Vietnam, a country of 54 ethnic groups, each with its own unique culture and traditions, offers a rich and diverse cultural heritage. To preserve these traditions and provide a space for visitors to explore, the Vietnam Ethnic Culture Village serves as a common home to showcase the distinctive lifestyles, customs, and practices of each ethnic group. Located about 50 kilometers from Hanoi, this village offers a more challenging adventure for those seeking a test of endurance. With its longer distance, it’s more suited for experienced cyclists or those who enjoy long-distance journeys.

The Vietnam Ethnic Culture Village is a place dedicated to preserving and promoting the unique cultural heritage of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. It features many areas of interest, and Dong Mo often hosts cultural activities from various regions. No matter when you visit, you can always immerse yourself in these vibrant cultural events.

The village is divided into several different zones, including: the ethnic village area, the cultural center and entertainment area, the UNESCO World Heritage area, the park, the general services area, the green space and Dong Mo Lake, and finally, the office management area.

The ethnic village area is the first spot you should visit. Spanning 198.61 hectares, this area is divided into four village clusters, each representing a different region of Vietnam. These clusters have been constructed to replicate the traditional architecture of various ethnic groups, offering a vivid representation of their lifestyles, houses, and cultural heritage. The aim is to preserve and promote the development of these unique traditions.

In the ethnic village area, you can experience a variety of traditional cultural festivals, such as the Northwest Market Fair, the Cor people’s rain prayer festival (from Quảng Nam), the B’rau people’s rice planting festival (from Kon Tum), the Seven Mountains Buffalo Racing Festival (from An Giang), and the Cai Rang Floating Market (from Can Tho). These festivals are reenacted throughout the year, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in lively and colorful celebrations that reflect the unique cultural identity of each region in Vietnam.

With its blend of rich cultural heritage, traditional architecture, and live cultural performances, the Vietnam Ethnic Culture Village is an ideal destination for anyone looking to learn more about the diverse ethnic groups that make up Vietnam and to experience their vibrant customs and festivals firsthand.

Viet Phu Thanh Chuong

With just a 30-kilometer distance from the center of Hanoi, there is another wonderful and meaningful destination for you to explore: Viet Phu Thanh Chuong. Located at Doc Day Dieu, Keo Ca Dam, Hien Ninh Commune, Soc Son District, Hanoi, Viet Phu Thanh Chuong is designed to resemble a miniature North Vietnamese rural village, preserving traditional cultural values and the charming beauty of ancient countryside life. Viet Phu Thanh Chuong encompasses 30 architectural structures that reflect the history of Vietnam in the past century. As you take a stroll through the expansive grounds, you’ll be immersed in a historical atmosphere that feels like a walk through time.

First, you will be able to admire the beauty of 13 ancient houses with unique names such as Lau Tuong Van, Nha Thanh Tinh, Cong Huong, Nha Mac Huong, and Quan Xuan Phong. Viet Phu Thanh Chuong also brings together various related architectural elements such as towers, chessboards, lotus ponds, a theater, and art rooms. Visitors can leisurely explore the space, marveling at the beauty that brings to life a historical environment that is both vibrant and serene, full of charm and elegance.

Deep inside the complex, you will find a 200-year-old thatched house of the Muong ethnic group, a 300-year-old royal house from Hue, and a wooden house built in the style of the Northern Delta. One of the most remarkable features is the straw-walled house, which is closely tied to the heroic history of Vietnam’s south-to-north struggle. This structure stands grand and majestic, captivating visitors from the very first moment. The modern construction blends seamlessly with the history of the Dinh, Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties. Viet Phu Thanh Chuong not only evokes memories of Vietnam’s heroic history but also carries the simple, rustic, and tranquil beauty of ancient Vietnamese village life.

This destination offers a unique blend of history, culture, and architecture, making it an ideal place for anyone wanting to connect with the roots of Vietnamese civilization while enjoying the peaceful, nostalgic charm of rural traditions.

Duong Lam Ancient Village

Duong Lam Ancient Village, located in Son Tay District, Hanoi, is a must-visit destination around Hanoi, just about 44 kilometers from the city center. Duong Lam is the homeland of two famous historical figures, Ngo Quyen and Phung Hung, which is why it is known as the “land of two kings.” To this day, Duong Lam has preserved the essential characteristics of a traditional northern Vietnamese village, featuring village gates, banyan trees, wells, communal yards, and over 950 traditional houses.

In 2006, Duong Lam became the first ancient village in Vietnam to be recognized as a national historical and cultural heritage site by the government. Due to its proximity to Hanoi, many visitors opt for day trips to this ancient village around Hanoi. However, for those coming from farther away or who wish to fully experience the peaceful rural atmosphere, hotels and guesthouses in Son Tay are good accommodation options.

One of the highlights of Duong Lam Ancient Village is the Mong Phu Communal House, built nearly 380 years ago in the center of the village, covering about 1,800 square meters. The design of the communal house strongly reflects the traditional Viet-Muong architecture, modeled after a stilt house with a wooden floor raised above the ground. The communal house consists of two main sections: the Đại Bái Hall and the Hậu Cung (inner sanctum).

The Đai Bai Hall is supported by 48 wooden pillars, each adorned with intricate carvings of dragons and phoenixes. Inside, there are numerous horizontal lacquered boards and couplets, including the famous “Lao Long Huan Tu” (Old Dragon Teaching Its Children) and “Dung Cam Ca Tuong” (Bravery Beyond Words), which was a gift from King Thanh Thai. The communal house not only boasts architectural beauty but also holds significant cultural value, making it a fascinating destination for visitors interested in Vietnam’s history and heritage.

Tay Phuong Mountain

Located on the Tay Phuong Mountain in Yen Village, Thach Xa Commune, Thach That District, Hanoi, Tay Phuong Pagoda (Sung Phuc Tu) is a unique historical and architectural site known for its exceptional sculptural art, particularly its collection of valuable Buddhist statues. The pagoda is renowned for its distinctive roof, with sharp, curved angles that capture the attention of all visitors. Historical records indicate that in 1632, during the reign of King Le Than Tong, the pagoda was constructed with a three-room upper hall and a 20-room corridor. In 1794, under the Tay Son dynasty, the pagoda underwent a major renovation and was renamed Tay Phuong Co Tu, with the architectural design we see today.

Tay Phuong Pagoda follows the architectural layout of the chu Tam (three Chinese characters) style, with three parallel buildings running along the mountainside. The buildings—Chua Ha (Lower Pagoda), Chua Trung (Middle Pagoda), and Chua Thuong (Upper Pagoda)—are positioned from low to high, taking advantage of the mountain’s natural terrain. Each building has its distinct design, but they come together to form a unified architectural ensemble.

To reach the pagoda, visitors must climb 239 stone steps from the base of the mountain to the top, where the main gate of the pagoda is located. The pagoda is made up of three parallel structures: the Bai Duong (worship hall), Chinh Dien (main hall), and Hau Cung (inner sanctum). Each structure has two tiers of roofs designed in the traditional “chong diem” style, with walls constructed from red-fired bricks from Bat Trang. The interior is left open, creating a rustic, raw atmosphere, with circular windows symbolizing space and void. The wooden columns are placed on green stone platforms, each carved with lotus petal patterns.

The most striking feature of Tay Phuong Pagoda is its unique roof, with curved, upward-arching eaves, constructed in two layers. The top layer features tiles with embossed leaf patterns, while the bottom layer consists of square tiles painted in five colors, resembling the robes of Buddhist monks. The roofs are supported by wooden beams arranged in perfect, evenly spaced squares. The eaves of all three buildings are intricately carved with swirling, stylized leaf patterns. Numerous clay figurines of animals adorn the roof, and the ridge ends are topped with clay figures of flowers, leaves, dragons phoenixes, creating an artistic and expressive display that conveys both beauty and symbolism.

Tay Phuong Pagoda is not only an architectural gem but also an important cultural and religious landmark, attracting visitors with its rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and exceptional craftsmanship.

The Final Stop Around Hanoi: Thay Pagoda

Thay Pagoda, also known as Ca Pagoda or Thien Phuc Tu, is located at the foot of Mount Sai (Mount Thay), in Sai Son commune, Quoc Oai district, around Hanoi. For a long time, it has been an attractive spiritual tourist destination due to its picturesque landscape, blending harmoniously with nature. The pagoda was originally built during the Ly Dynasty and is closely associated with the legendary life of Zen master Tu Dao Hanh.

Initially, the pagoda was just a small hermitage called Huong Hai Am. Later, King Ly Nhan Tong ordered its reconstruction, which included two main parts: the Upper Pagoda on the mountain (Dinh Son Tu) and the Lower Pagoda (Thien Phuc Tu). Thay Pagoda was a place of practice for Zen master Tu Dao Hanh, who made significant contributions to the people and is considered the founder of the traditional Vietnamese water puppet art.

Thay Pagoda is situated against the mountainside, built on land shaped like a dragon. The pagoda lies on a plot of land shaped like a dragon’s jaw. In front of it is a spacious courtyard overlooking Long Tri Lake (Dragon Pond), forming the upper jaw, with the left bank of the lake representing the lower jaw. In the center of Long Tri Lake stands a pavilion, resembling a shining pearl in the mouth of the dragon.

Above are the top destinations closest to Hanoi where you can enjoy a cycling trip on the weekend, relieving stress, boosting your fitness, and gaining more knowledge about meaningful landmarks!

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