Long Bien Bridge – An Unmissable Cycling Destination in Hanoi

Long Bien Bridge – An Unmissable Cycling Destination in Hanoi

Imagine: You hop on a bicycle at West Lake in Hanoi and start cycling along a series of dedicated bike paths and tranquil railway tracks. This journey separates you from the bustling city, utilizing a network of multi-use trails that allow you to safely explore the scenery, the capital of Hanoi, and the rich history of Vietnam.

Long Bien Bridge: Hanoi’s Historic Artery

The railway route on Long Bien Bridge is a vital artery, the shortest path connecting the Hanoi – Hai Phong and Hanoi – Lang Son railway lines with the national railway running through the heart of Hanoi. This is an iconic route to Hanoi. Built by the French in 1898 and inaugurated on February 28, 1902, Long Bien Bridge was originally named Doumer Bridge. After the capital was liberated, the bridge was renamed Long Bien by Hanoi’s mayor, Dr. Tran Van Lai, and has retained that name to this day.

Long Bien Bridge: Hanoi’s Historic Artery

At the time, Long Bien Bridge was considered an architectural marvel of Southeast Asia and the world. The design includes 19 steel spans resting on 20 towering piers, stretching nearly 2,300 meters (specifically 2,290 meters). On the west side of Long Bien Bridge, an additional 896 meters of stone-built approach road leads to the bridge. After its inauguration, Long Bien Bridge was recognized as the second-longest bridge in the world (the first being the Brooklyn Bridge over the East River in the USA). Some people even playfully compared Long Bien Bridge to a horizontal Eiffel Tower of Hanoi.

Furthermore, the width of Long Bien Bridge is approximately 4.75 meters, divided into three main lanes. The 2.6-meter lanes on either side are for cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles, while the 9.4-meter outermost lanes are for pedestrians. The central lane is reserved for train operations.

The Scenic Beauty of Long Bien Bridge

Admiring the picturesque scenery from Long Bien Bridge is an unmissable experience. The view from the bridge changes with each season, bringing different emotions to each observer. It’s a vast expanse of reeds along the banks of the Red River, with the wind whistling past and the vast sky overhead. Especially during sunrise or sunset, the scenery from the bridge becomes even more poetic. You can also gaze into the distance to see the modern Chuong Duong Bridge and the sparkling, vibrant panorama of the capital.

The Scenic Beauty of Long Bien Bridge

No matter which part of the route you decide to take, traveling between historic towns and major cities along the peaceful railway is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Since Long Bien Bridge railway is based on the idea that cyclists will ride on separate paths away from traffic, it appeals to a specific group of cyclists. Some cyclists who are uncomfortable on busier roads find this detour to be a temporary solution for those ready to ride now.

Safe and Tranquil Routes

The expertise of the Hanoi Bike Tour lies mainly in building safe and accessible routes on existing roads. Their cartographers have utilized various resources to create excellent routes for cycling enthusiasts. These resources include existing Hanoi Bike Tour routes, knowledge of regional and social networks, as well as local information, and experiences from cycling groups. Hanoi Bike Tour aims to create the safest and most comfortable cycling experience for everyone.

Safe and Tranquil Routes

Joining a Hanoi Bike Tour bicycle tour is a fantastic way to explore Long Bien Bridge and Hanoi’s history. The guides will lead you through quiet streets, past important landmarks, and share intriguing stories about the city’s history, culture, and architecture. You will have the opportunity to see this historic bridge up close, feel the serene atmosphere of the Red River, and gain a deeper understanding of Long Bien Bridge’s significance in Hanoi’s development. This is a culturally and historically rich experience you should not miss.

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