Northern Vietnam is a cyclist’s dream. The region’s lush landscapes, rice paddies, limestone karsts, and historic sites make for unforgettable riding. Unlike many places, Vietnam offers a variety of biking experiences—whether you want a quick e-bike spin through quiet countryside or a multi-day cruise combining biking, kayaking, and cultural visits. We especially enjoy the Ninh Binh E-Bike Tour – Secret Landscapes Tam Coc Countryside, which takes you off the beaten path with expert storytelling and visits to serene temples and mystical caves. It’s a perfect way to explore Vietnam’s rural charm while avoiding the crowds.
If you’re planning your trip, consider what kind of experience you want: a quick scenic ride, a comprehensive full-day adventure, or a multi-day journey with overnight stays. This list rounds up the best options, from budget-friendly rentals to all-inclusive multi-day cruises.
1. Rent A Bike
At number one, Rent A Bike in Ninh Binh is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to get on two wheels. For just $9.00 per person, you can rent a motorbike for anything from 7 to 22 hours. They also offer motorbike tour guides and a quick free lesson to help new riders feel confident. This option is ideal if you want flexibility—explore at your own pace and create your own route through rice paddies, small villages, and scenic spots. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5.0/5 from 38 travelers, praising both the price and service quality.
What makes this rental stand out is its straightforward approach: low cost, no fuss, and the ability to craft your own adventure. It’s suited for budget travelers or those with some riding experience who prefer independence. The main drawback? You’ll need to be comfortable riding a motorbike and navigating Vietnam’s traffic.
Bottom Line: If you’re comfortable riding and want maximum flexibility at a low cost, this rental is hard to beat.
2. Ninh Binh E-Bike Tour – Secret Landscapes Tam Coc Countryside
At number two, this Ninh Binh E-Bike Tour offers a gentle, eco-friendly way to explore lesser-known parts of Tam Coc. For about $38.49, you’ll spend roughly four hours discovering quiet rural roads, ancient temples, and caves. The tour is designed for those seeking authentic insights into local life and the natural beauty away from tourist hubs. Riding a modern e-bike means less physical effort and more time to absorb your surroundings.
The tour guides are excellent storytellers, sharing in-depth knowledge about sites like Thai Vi Temple, Hang Thiên Hương cave, and Cơi Khê Village. One reviewer noted, “We had a fantastic time on this tour, feeling like we saw hidden parts of Vietnam most travelers miss.” The stops are well-paced, and the small group size ensures a personalized experience.
Key highlights include visiting Thai Vi Temple and Hang Thiên Hương, both steeped in spiritual and natural allure. It’s perfect for culturally curious travelers who want a relaxed ride and meaningful stories.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice if you want an authentic, educational ride through Vietnam’s countryside without the physical strain of traditional biking.
3. From Ninh Binh: Halong Bay 2 Days on Cruise, Biking & Kayaking
Number three on our list offers a two-day cruise experience that combines scenic biking, kayaking, and relaxing on a cruise. Starting from Ninh Binh, this trip immerses you in the stunning limestone formations of Lan Ha Bay. The cruise features 10 spacious cabins and includes locally sourced meals, making it a comfortable yet adventurous escape.
Day one includes a visit to Cai Beo Port, followed by exploration of Cat Ba Island and kayaking in Dark & Bright Cave, with an emphasis on environmental sustainability. Day two continues the adventure with more kayaking and scenic cruising through extraordinary limestone landscapes. The small group size, with a maximum of 23 passengers, ensures a personalized experience away from crowds.
Guests praise the combination of activities and the chance to see untouched parts of Halong Bay. The tour’s multi-activity format—biking, kayaking, relaxing on board—is perfect for active travelers who want variety and comfort.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a multi-day, multi-activity escape that combines the best of Vietnam’s natural beauty with comfortable accommodations.
4. Ninh Binh E-Bike Tour – Ninh Binh’s Must-See Highlights
For around $68.02, this full-day Ninh Binh highlights tour is perfect if you want to see everything in one go. It covers key sites like Mua Caves, Bich Dong Pagoda, and Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. The tour is designed to maximize your time on an e-bike, allowing you to cover more ground than on a regular bike while enjoying the ease of pedal assistance.
The guide will lead you through lush rice paddies, ancient temples, and scenic viewpoints. Guests have praised the guide’s knowledge and the opportunity to see hidden parts of the landscape. The inclusion of entrance fees and the comfortable e-bikes make it good value for a full-day experience.
This tour is best suited for those who prefer a structured day with a mix of cultural and scenic highlights, without the physical demands of traditional biking. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want a rundown of Ninh Binh’s must-see sights.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, accessible option for travelers eager to see Ninh Binh’s main attractions efficiently.
5. The Ninh Binh E-Bike Experience From Ninh Binh Hotels
Finally, for a more personalized experience, consider The Ninh Binh E-Bike Experience. For about $78, this 5-6 hour tour offers a tailored ride starting from your hotel, focusing on cultural sites like Van Lam Embroidery Village, Bich Dong Pagoda, and Thai Vi Temple. The small-group setting and flexible itinerary make it perfect for travelers who want a more relaxed, customized day.
The guide shares stories about local crafts and traditions, making it more of an immersive cultural experience. Guests appreciate the ease of traveling on pedal-assist bikes, allowing them to enjoy scenic spots without fatigue. This tour suits travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and cultural engagement with the flexibility to include specific interests.
While slightly pricier than other options, the personalized attention and convenient start point add value. It’s best for culturally curious travelers who want a private, relaxed ride.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a customized, culturally rich half-day experience with comfortable e-bikes.
$78.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Bike Tour in Northern Vietnam
When selecting the right bike tour, consider your budget, physical fitness, and the type of experience you crave. If you want complete independence and cost savings, renting a motorbike gives you freedom. However, be prepared for Vietnam’s busy traffic. If culture and light activity appeal, an e-bike tour like the Tam Coc countryside ride offers ease and insights. For larger adventures, the multi-day cruise combines scenic biking, kayaking, and relaxing on the water—great for active travelers who want variety.
If you prefer a structured, full-day itinerary, the Ninh Binh Highlights provides a rundown. For a private, relaxed outing, the personalized Ninh Binh E-Bike offers flexibility and cultural depth.
Book early in peak seasons—October to April—for the best availability. Regardless of choice, each of these tours offers a memorable way to experience Northern Vietnam’s landscapes and culture on two wheels.
Whether you’re after a quick ride, a full-day exploration, or a multi-day voyage, Northern Vietnam’s bike options are extensive. For scenic countryside, cultural sites, or combined water adventures, the right tour depends on your interests and fitness. Prepare to pedal through one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating regions—and don’t forget your camera.