Hanoi is one of those cities where cycling is almost mandatory—small, bustling streets, colonial architecture, and lush countryside just a pedal away. Unlike many cities, Hanoi offers a surprising blend of urban and rural cycling experiences that reveal its true character. Whether you’re cruising behind a local family, exploring quiet villages, or paddling into limestone caves, these tours give you a genuine taste of local life. We love the Venezia Cruises – Kayking, Biking – 2D1N in less tourist areas for its overnight escapade into the lesser-visited areas of Lan Ha Bay, where kayaking and swimming add a splash of adventure to your trip. For those who want a quick city fix, the Hanoi City Bike Tour through Banana Island & Food Tasting combines city sights with a scenic island escape, perfect for a half-day outing.
Quick Overview
Our list brings together a variety of bike tours in Hanoi that cater to different tastes and travel styles. You’ll find options that take you outside the city to explore rural villages, historic sites, or waterfront caves, as well as city-centric rides that uncover Hanoi’s hidden corners. Some tours include boat trips, culinary stops, or cultural visits, making each one a unique way to see the area. Now, let’s dive into the details of each experience.
1. Venezia cruises – Kayking, Biking – 2D1N in less tourist areas
This two-day overnight tour offers a rare chance to cycle and kayak through the less touristy parts of Lan Ha Bay, including Cat Ba Island. Starting from Hanoi, you’re transferred to Beo Harbour, then enjoy a cruise through limestone karst formations and coastal scenery. Kayaking into caves and islets, swimming, or jumping into crystal waters makes this an active, immersive experience perfect for adventure lovers who prefer avoiding the crowds. The tours are designed for small groups, allowing more personalized attention. With a 5-star rating based on 252 reviews, travelers praise the fantastic scenery and friendly staff. It’s ideal for those wanting a mix of cruise, kayaking, and beach time beyond typical tourist routes.
Bottom Line: If you want a quiet, nature-focused trip with kayaking and swimming, this tour offers great value at just under $117, especially considering the small group size and unique itinerary.
2. Halong Bay 2 days on classic cruise, small group, biking-kayaking
This small-group cruise begins at Beo Harbour in Lan Ha Bay, often less crowded than Ha Long Bay itself. Accommodating only 23 passengers, the modern steel vessel combines safety and comfort with a classic aesthetic. The cruise includes kayaking, biking, and visits to Dark & Bright Cave and other islets. Guests rave about the smooth transfers, abundant food, and informative guides. The exquisite limestone formations and wild beauty make it a favorite for travelers who want a more authentic, less commercial vibe. Many reviewers highlight the authenticity of the experience and the quiet serenity of Lan Ha Bay.
Bottom Line: For around $131, this cruise offers intimate atmosphere and active adventures, perfect if you prefer smaller groups with a focus on natural beauty.
3. Ninh Binh Tour: Deluxe & Small Group Tam Coc Hoa Lu – Boat, Biking, Buffet Lunch
This popular day trip combines historical sites with scenic boat rides and biking. It includes a visit to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, where you stroll through 17th-century temples, then cruise along the Tam Coc River through limestone caves. The tour’s highlight is the boat trip, which many describe as “Halong Bay on land,” and the biking through countryside villages adds a relaxing touch. With a 5-star rating from 168 reviews, travelers appreciate the well-organized itinerary, delicious buffet lunch, and friendly guides. It’s a good value at just $39, especially for those interested in a mix of history, nature, and gentle activity.
Bottom Line: This tour fits travelers seeking a balanced day of cultural exploration and outdoor fun at a budget-friendly price.
4. Ninh Binh Daily Tour: Hoa Lu – Mua Cave -Tam Coc- Bike-Swimming with Sunset Party
A lively day packed with mountain climbing, biking, boat rides, and swimming, this tour offers a full immersion in Vietnamese countryside. Visit Hoa Lu, then climb the 500-step Mua Cave for panoramic views. After a buffet lunch, you’ll paddle a sampan boat in Tam Coc and cycle through rice paddies. The day ends with a Sunset Party, which can be a fun social highlight. Rated 5 stars by 163 travelers, many mention the excellent local food and beautiful scenery. It’s perfect for active travelers who want variety and a touch of local culture.
Bottom Line: For a full, active day with scenic views and a sunset party, this tour delivers great value at $79, especially with the mix of physical activities and cultural sights.
5. Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Ninh Binh Day Tour: Biking, Visit Local Family
This intimate tour provides a personal experience of Ninh Binh’s breathtaking landscapes and local life. Starting with Hoa Lu, then riding bikes through rice fields, you visit a traditional Vietnamese family for a home-cooked meal. The boat ride in Tam Coc reveals limestone caves, and the small group size (max 8) allows for interaction with locals. Many reviewers testify how authentic and rewarding this experience is, praising the friendly guides and delicious food. At $81, it’s a good choice for travelers wanting culture and outdoor activities without sacrificing comfort.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a personal connection with locals and a relaxed pace in stunning rural scenery.
6. Hanoi City Bike Tour through Banana Island & Food Tasting
This half-day city tour takes you through Hanoi’s most iconic sights and a peaceful Banana Island. Riding through busy streets and scenic back alleys, you’ll stop at places like Long Bien Bridge, West Lake, and Hu Tiep Lake. Along the way, enjoy local snacks and drinks, making it a perfect mix of sightseeing and culinary discovery. With a 5-star rating from 150 reviews, travelers love the easy pace and insightful guide. The tour’s focus on hidden corners and local life makes it a great choice for those who want a manageable, fun city ride.
Bottom Line: For around $45, this tour offers a balanced blend of city sights and food—great for those looking to taste Hanoi’s everyday life.
7. Hanoi: Bike Tour Through Hidden Gems and Banana Island
This flexible tour is perfect for adventurous cyclists wanting to explore Hanoi’s lesser-known spots. It combines city cycling with a trip to Banana Island, including stops at Long Bien Bridge and local family homes. Tour guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making it a personal experience. With 4.9 stars from 167 reviews, travelers appreciate the variety of stops and authentic encounters. It’s suited for travelers comfortable with urban cycling and interested in local culture.
Bottom Line: If you’re up for riding through the heart of Hanoi and beyond, this tour at about $48 offers great value and unique sights.
8. From Hanoi: Hoa Lu & Tam Coc with Buffet lunch & Cycling
This comprehensive day trip covers Hoa Lu’s ancient temples, a bamboo boat tour of Tam Coc, and a cycling session through scenic villages. It includes a buffet lunch and smooth transfers from Hanoi. The 4.4-star reviews highlight its efficient organization and variety of activities. It’s especially good for travelers who want a full package without worrying about logistics.
Bottom Line: For budget-conscious travelers who want history, boat rides, and cycling, at only $28, this tour packs a lot into one day.
9. Ninh Binh Daily Tour: Hoa Lu- Am Tien Cave – Tam Coc- Bike – Bich Dong pagoda
This action-packed day includes visits to Hoa Lu, Am Tien Cave, Tam Coc, bike riding, and Bich Dong Pagoda. Many travelers love the variety of activities, especially the boat trip and mountain climb at Mua Cave. Reviewers praise the expert guide and the well-organized schedule. At $77, it offers a good mix of culture and outdoor fun suitable for active travelers wanting to cover lots of ground.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a full day of exploring, combining history, nature, and physical activity.
10. Discover Trang An Natural World Heritage, Bich Dong Pagoda, Cycling Day Tour
This tour guides you through Trang An’s stunning waterways with boat rides, then cycles through limestone landscapes. Visiting Bich Dong Pagoda, it’s ideal for travelers wanting to see Vietnam’s most iconic karst scenery while enjoying active exploration. Many reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and small-group intimacy. It’s perfect for those who prefer a combination of water and land adventures.
Bottom Line: At $79, it’s a great option for nature lovers who want both boat and bike experiences.
11. Ninh Binh Daily Tour: Hoa Lu – Tam Coc boat trip and Bike
This straightforward day tour focuses on the essentials: Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and a bike ride. Travelers mention how well-organized and relaxing it is. The boat trip along the Ngo Dong River and the cycling through rice paddies make for a peaceful yet enriching experience. With a 5-star rating and a price of $60, it offers solid value for those wanting a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet laid-back day outside Hanoi.
12. Explore Hanoi Old City By Cycling Tour With Small Groups
This city-focused tour takes you through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Long Bien Bridge, Banana Island, and more. It’s perfect for urban explorers who want to see the city’s landmarks at a relaxed pace. Reviewers love Tee’s guiding skills and the variety of neighborhoods visited. It’s an inexpensive option at just $29, making it an excellent choice for short-term travelers.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly and informative way to see Hanoi’s vibrant streets.
13. Ninh Binh Day Tour: Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Mua Cave via Boat & Bike
This full-day adventure combines historic sites, caves, boat rides, and mountain climbs. It’s designed for travelers who want to cover all major highlights in one trip, including a climb up Mua Cave for panoramic views. Many mention how well-paced and diverse the activities are. Price at $48 gives this tour a good balance of value and variety.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want to maximize their experience in Ninh Binh.
14. Ninh Binh full day-Hoa Lu temple & biking, Tam Coc boat trip, Dragon mountain
This full-day tour offers a comprehensive look at Ninh Binh, including Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua mountain. It’s praised for the beautiful boat ride and the climb to the Dragon Mountain. Many reviews highlight the well-organized schedule and beautiful scenery. At $55, it’s a great value for travelers wanting a big-picture experience with active elements.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a blend of history, nature, and light hiking.
15. Private Ninh Binh Full Day (Bich Dong -Tam Coc -Mua cave- Biking)
This luxury private tour offers personalized attention, high-quality transportation, and a professional guide. It includes visits to Bich Dong Pagoda, a boat trip, Mua Cave, and a local family experience. Many travelers appreciate the customized service and intimate setting. The $139 price reflects its premium nature, making it ideal for travelers seeking comfort and exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who prefer a private, personalized experience with a focus on culture and scenery.
How to Choose the Best Bike Tour in Hanoi
When selecting a bike tour in Hanoi, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you’re after culture and history, tours like the Hoa Lu – Tam Coc or Ninh Binh full day are excellent. For those craving active outdoor adventures, the Lan Ha Bay cruises with kayaking or Mua Cave climbs make great options. Budget travelers can find value in the shorter city-based tours like the Hanoi City Bike Tour or Hanoi Old City exploration.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons (October to April), to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment. Think about the distance and difficulty—if you’re unaccustomed to cycling uphill, tours with gentle countryside rides will be more suitable.
Hanoi offers a surprisingly diverse range of bike tours, from tranquil countryside rides to lively city explorations and adventurous boat trips. For a relaxed cultural day, tours with local families or temple visits are perfect. If you crave adventure and active pursuits, smaller cruises with kayaking and mountain climbing are the way to go. Whether you seek a half-day city experience or an overnight escape into nature, there’s a cycling tour that matches your style. Don’t forget to book early, and pedal your way into Hanoi’s rich scenery and welcoming local life.