Sidecar Trip to the Villages of Hoi An

If you’re seeking a truly authentic look at rural Vietnam just outside the bustling town of Hoi An, then a sidecar tour might be just what you need. For $122 per group (up to two people), you get a chance to glide through rice paddies, watch local farmers at work, and peek into traditional crafts, all in a comfortable, fun, and unique way. The tour is organized by Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa, and it lasts about a few hours—perfect for travelers who want a taste of the countryside without a full day commitment.

What we love most about this experience is how personal and engaging it feels. Riding in a sidecar, you get an unobstructed view of the landscape, and the fresh air makes it a lively, sensory experience. Two specific highlights stand out: the visit to Thanh Ha Pottery Village, where generations of artisans craft with local clay, and the chance to see Tra Que Vegetable Village farmers at work, giving you a genuine glimpse into their daily lives. The second is the relaxed pace—the tour isn’t rushed, so you truly get to soak in the scenery and culture.

A possible consideration for travelers is that this tour might not suit everyone. If you’re sensitive to weather or prefer a more traditional sightseeing experience, the open-air sidecar ride exposes you to the sun or rain. Also, children under 5 or those with mobility issues might find riding awkward or unsuitable. However, for those wanting a lively, memorable peek into Vietnamese village life with a dollop of adventure, this trip hits the mark.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love scenic views, cultural insights, and a bit of fun. If you’re curious about local crafts or farmers, enjoy picturesque landscapes, and don’t mind a bit of wind in your face, you’ll find this experience both charming and rewarding.

Key Points

• Unique transportation: Riding in a sidecar offers an open-air, immersive experience of Vietnam’s countryside.
• Cultural immersion: Visit Thanh Ha Pottery Village and see traditional craftwork.
• Authentic scenery: Enjoy views of rice paddies, canals, and rural houses.
• Comfort and value: Includes hotel pickup/drop-off, entrance tickets, water, and a cold towel.
• Limited suitability: Not ideal for children under 5 or those with health or mobility issues.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sidecar Tour Experience

Getting Started: Convenient Pickup and Arrival

The tour begins with hotel pickup within Hoi An city center, making it easy to start without any hassle. Once you’re collected, you’ll be driven a short distance to the countryside, where the adventure truly begins. The ease of this arrangement means you can relax and focus on the scenery rather than logistics.

Setting Off in the Sidecar: Feel the Wind and Take in the Scenery

Climbing into the sidecar, we immediately appreciated how cosy yet exhilarating the ride was. The wind in our hair and the open view of the landscape made for a lively experience. You’ll pass through lush green fields, canals, and rivers, dotted with small houses and farms. This is where the real charm of the tour lies—seeing Vietnamese rural life up close, with no glass between you and the outdoors.

Visiting Tra Que Vegetable Village: Real Farmers at Work

One of the highlights is stopping at Tra Que Village, a well-known vegetable-growing area just outside Hoi An. Here, local farmers tend to their plots, often using traditional methods. We found it fascinating to watch them work—planting, watering, and harvesting. It’s an excellent chance to learn about Vietnamese farming and see how fresh produce makes its way from the land to your table. The quiet pace and authentic setting give you a true sense of rural life, free from touristy fluff.

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Thanh Ha Pottery Village: Craftsmanship Through the Ages

Next, the tour takes you to Thanh Ha Pottery Village, famed for generations of artisans shaping clay into functional and decorative ceramics. Watching the craftsmen work with local clay, we appreciated the skill involved in creating both simple and beautiful pieces. You might even get a chance to try your hand at pottery-making, adding a personal touch to this traditional craft. The village’s peaceful atmosphere and the sight of pottery being shaped—by hand or with simple tools—provide a window into Vietnam’s artisan spirit.

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

Throughout the ride, you’ll want to have your camera ready. The picturesque landscapes—serene waterways, lush fields, and rustic houses—are perfect for capturing memories. Jasmine, one of the reviewers, called this tour “a good trip and a unique way to see so much of Hoi An,” emphasizing how the views make it worthwhile. Gowthami described it as a “lovely experience and a must-do,” highlighting the genuine charm of the scenery.

Returning to Hoi An: A Relaxed End

After your village visits and sightseeing, the tour concludes with a gentle ride back to your hotel within Hoi An. The entire experience, lasting a few hours, strikes a balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and culture.

The Value of the Tour

At $122, the price might seem steep for just a few hours, but when you consider what’s included—hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, water, and a cold towel—the value adds up. You’re paying for an authentic, personalized experience that combines adventure, culture, and scenery in a way that a typical bus tour can’t offer.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want to avoid large crowds. The open sidecar allows for a more intimate view of rural life and landscapes. Plus, the included local insights make it more engaging than just a sightseeing drive. The reviews underline how this is a “brilliant” trip, with Jasmine praising it highly, and Gowthami calling it “lovely,” which speaks to how well the experience resonates with travelers seeking authentic moments.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for the weather, and bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera.
• Check the weather forecast—rain can make the ride less pleasant.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 5, or for people with mobility challenges or altitude sickness.
• Remember, you can reserve and pay later, so you have flexibility in planning.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love scenic countryside, enjoy local crafts, and want a fun and memorable way to see rural Vietnam, this sidecar trip is an excellent choice. It’s also ideal for those who prefer small-group, personalized experiences over large bus tours. If you’re curious about daily village life and dislike overly touristy setups, you’ll appreciate the genuine atmosphere of this tour.

However, if you’re after a luxurious or air-conditioned experience, or traveling with very young children or people with health issues, this might not be the best fit. Also, be prepared for an outdoorsy ride—if you’re sensitive to weather or wind, consider those factors before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included within Hoi An city center, making it convenient to start and end the tour.

What is the price for the tour?
The cost is $122 for a group of up to two people, which includes entrance tickets, water, and a cold towel.

How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, it’s designed to be a few hours, blending scenic riding with village visits.

Are children allowed on this trip?
Children under 5 are not suitable for this tour, mainly due to safety and comfort reasons.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Weather conditions can change, so dress accordingly.

Is it suitable for people with health issues?
The tour isn’t recommended for those with altitude sickness or mobility issues, as the ride is outdoors and involves some walking at the villages.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, meals and drinks aren’t included, but bottled water and towels are provided.

What languages are supported?
The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible to most travelers.

In short, the Sidecar Trip to the Villages of Hoi An offers a lively and authentic glimpse into Vietnam’s countryside, combining scenic beauty, cultural crafts, and a bit of adventure. It’s best suited for curious travelers eager for a personal, engaging experience outside of the usual tourist routes. With thoughtful planning and an appreciation for simple pleasures, you’re likely to leave with great stories, beautiful photos, and a deeper understanding of rural Vietnam’s charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: