Reviews
Electric Touring Bike
£26 per day
Experience Vietnam’s striking contrasts on this two‑week Cycle & Cruise Adventure. You’ll explore vibrant cities, rural traditions and UNESCO World Heritage Sites by bike and boat. In the north, cycle peaceful lanes past rice fields in Ninh Binh, cruise the iconic limestone formations of Ha Long Bay, and discover hidden forests on Cát Bà Island.
Continue by bike through the fragrant countryside of Hội An, cross the Cloud Pass to imperial Huế, and delve into temple‑lined lanes. In the south, cycle the labyrinthine waterways of the Mekong Delta, explore floating markets and relax on traditional boats. Your journey includes four overnight cruises aboard comfortable ships and 10 nights in quality 3–4 star hotels. Guided by local experts, the tour weaves active days with cultural discoveries, regional food and unforgettable views, ideal for adventurous travellers seeking a deeper sense of Vietnam.
Upon landing in Hanoi, you will be transferred via shuttle to your hotel located in the captivating Old Quarter. Despite the city’s three million residents, this neighbourhood retains its traditional charm, with narrow, tree‑lined streets, colonial architecture, and buzzing street life. After settling in, you may have time to enjoy a leisurely stroll, perhaps sip a local coffee or browse the night market stalls.
Later in the afternoon, you will meet the group and gather for a traditional water puppet show, a uniquely Vietnamese art form that entertains with music, storytelling and handcrafted puppets emerging from a shallow pool. Afterwards, you’ll dine together at a nearby restaurant, where you can begin sampling authentic Vietnamese dishes and get to know one another. The evening’s relaxed pace allows you to adjust to the time zone and culture while setting the tone for the days ahead.
After breakfast, a coach will take you to the scenic province of Ninh Binh, a region of emerald rice paddies and dramatic limestone formations. Here, you’ll begin with a 14‑mile ride that leads you through lush farmland to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s former capital. Explore ancient temple ruins that speak of dynasties past before continuing your cycling journey to Trang An Farm for a satisfying lunch of local specialities.
Post‑lunch, a gentle 6‑mile ride brings you to Tam Coc, where you will swap your bike for a traditional rowboat. Drift quietly through narrow waterways surrounded by towering karst peaks. The day concludes at a local bird sanctuary, where at dusk you may witness flocks returning to their nests—a peaceful sight to close the day. Overnight in Tam Coc offers a restful end to a culturally rich and visually stunning day.
Begin with breakfast, followed by a short visit to a hidden valley featuring a serene Buddhist temple amongst limestone cliffs. A four‑hour transfer then brings you to Ha Long Bay, where you board a traditional wooden junk boat. After lunch, cruise into this UNESCO‑listed seascape famous for its eerie rock formations and lush island vegetation.
In the afternoon, take part in a sunset kayak tour, paddling amid quiet waters against a glowing sky, an unforgettable experience. These surreal surroundings are a unique highlight of the tour. You will spend the night anchored in the bay, lulled by gentle waves and under a starry sky, a moment of true tranquillity.
After breakfast on board, transfer to Cat Ba Island via a smaller boat. Your cycling adventure begins with an 18‑mile route that travels through dense greenery to Việt Hải village, home to the Viet Hai minority group. There, a guided walk through an ancient forest leads to a spectacular viewpoint overlooking Ha Long Bay, on clear days, the panorama stretches as far as the eye can see.
You then cruise past Bo Hon Island to visit the enchanting Virgin Cave (Trinh Nu). This cave weaves together geology and legend, creating a memorable stop. Dinner is served aboard, and you will spend the night on the ship, an immersive blend of active exploration and cultural insight.
Today offers a change of pace as we swap our bikes for kayaks to explore the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay, an extension of Ha Long Bay that is equally stunning but far less frequented by tourists. After breakfast on board, we disembark the junk and board a smaller transfer boat that navigates us into the calm, emerald-green waters of the bay’s more secluded corners. Here, surrounded by towering limestone karsts and quiet inlets, we begin our guided kayak tour.
Paddling at a relaxed pace, we make our way to a hidden beach, where we take a well-earned break. There is plenty of time to relax, swim or sunbathe, and enjoy a picnic-style lunch in this peaceful natural setting. After some downtime, we continue paddling past floating fishing villages, getting a glimpse into the daily lives of those who live and work on the water.
Eventually, we arrive back at Cat Ba Island, where a short transfer brings us to a scenic seaside resort. The rest of the afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy. Whether you prefer a refreshing swim in the hotel’s pool, a walk along the private beach or simply relaxing with a book, this is the perfect spot to unwind. (Meals: B, L, D)
The morning begins with a short visit to Cat Ba’s lively local market, where colourful stalls sell everything from fresh seafood to tropical fruits. It’s a great chance to observe local life and perhaps pick up a few snacks or souvenirs. Following the visit, the morning is yours to enjoy as you wish. You can choose to relax at the hotel, take a walk along the beach, or enjoy a swim. With late checkout until 2:00 pm, there’s no need to rush.
After lunch, we begin our journey south with a transfer to either Hai Phong or Hanoi Airport, depending on current flight availability. From there, we take a short internal flight to Da Nang, followed by a quick transfer to the charming heritage town of Hội An.
After checking in to our hotel in the heart of Hội An, we enjoy dinner together in one of the local restaurants. With its lantern-lit streets, riverside ambience and fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese and French influences, Hội An promises to be one of the highlights of the journey. The evening is free to explore or simply settle in and rest. (Meals: B, L, D)
After breakfast, we hop back on our bikes for a gentle ride through the surrounding countryside of Hội An. The route takes us along quiet village roads, past rice fields and small farms, toward Tra Que Vegetable Village. This peaceful rural community is known for its traditional farming methods and fragrant herbs, especially the sweet-scented basil that gives the village its name.
Upon arrival, we’re welcomed by a local family who introduces us to their way of life. We have the opportunity to try our hand at some gardening tasks before helping prepare a traditional lunch using fresh herbs and vegetables straight from the garden. It’s a hands-on experience that offers a true taste of Vietnamese hospitality and cuisine.
After lunch, we cycle back to Hội An. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. You may choose to visit the old town, known for its preserved merchant houses, tailors and temples, or take a short taxi ride to Cửa Đại or An Bang Beach for a swim.
The evening is free, offering time to explore Hội An’s vibrant night market or enjoy a quiet dinner by the riverside. Overnight stay at the hotel. (Meals: B, L)
Today is all about enjoying Hội An at your own pace. With no scheduled cycling, it’s the perfect opportunity to soak up the atmosphere of this unique UNESCO-listed town. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before venturing into the lantern-lined streets of the old town.
You may wish to visit key historical sites such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, or Quan Cong Temple, all within walking distance. Hội An is also famed for its tailors, so if you’re interested in custom-made clothing, this is the ideal day to place an order. Foodies may opt to join a local cooking class or sample street food staples like bánh mì, cao lầu, or white rose dumplings.
For those looking to relax, the hotel’s palm-shaded pool area or a nearby beach offers the perfect spot. Alternatively, a relaxing boat ride on the Thu Bon River gives a new perspective on the town.
In the evening, Hội An lights up with colourful lanterns and live music along the river. Whether you’re dining with fellow travellers or enjoying your own adventure, the town provides a memorable backdrop. (Meals: B, L)
After breakfast, we say goodbye to Hội An and transfer north towards Huế. Along the way, we stop to admire the views at the Hải Vân Pass, a scenic mountain road that marks the climatic boundary between North and South Vietnam. Weather permitting, we begin our 27-mile (40km) cycle from the base of the pass, following a stunning coastal route.
The ride takes us through quiet fishing villages, alongside empty beaches and past salt flats and shrimp farms. There is time for a break and a swim at Lăng Cô Beach, where we also enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.
As we approach Thuan An Beach, you can choose whether to continue by bike or hop in the bus for the final stretch to Huế. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and have time to freshen up before dinner. The evening is free to explore Huế’s riverside promenade or relax at the hotel. (Meals: B, L, D)
Today’s cycling route offers a gentle 10-mile (16km) ride through the countryside around Huế, providing a close-up view of local village life. After breakfast, we set out by bike toward Thanh Thuy Village, passing rice paddies, temples and wooden bridges. We take time to visit small shrines and experience the slower pace of rural Vietnam.
Back in Huế, we stop for lunch before joining a guided tour of the city’s most iconic historical site: the Imperial Citadel. This sprawling complex, once home to the Nguyen emperors, includes palaces, temples and the Forbidden Purple City, which was restricted to the royal family. Though partially damaged during wars, much of the site remains intact and is gradually being restored.
The afternoon is free for further exploration, perhaps by taking a walk along the Perfume River, visiting a local café, or browsing Huế’s traditional markets.
Dinner is at your leisure tonight, and the hotel is centrally located for easy access to the city’s restaurants and shops. (Meals: B, L)
We begin the day with a morning flight from Huế to Hồ Chí Minh City, followed by a transfer to Bến Tre, the gateway to the Mekong Delta. Upon arrival, we board our private junk and begin our cruise through one of the world's most fertile and dynamic river systems.
In the afternoon, we disembark for a short bike ride of around 12.5 miles (20km) through lush landscapes and along palm-lined paths. You’ll witness locals tending to coconut plantations and fish farms, with opportunities to stop for fresh fruit tastings and local handicraft demonstrations.
Back on board, we enjoy lunch as the boat continues its journey toward Nau Hiep Island, where we set off on a second short ride. These island communities offer a unique perspective on delta life, where homes are often accessible only by boat.
We return to the junk for dinner and a relaxed evening on the water, anchored near Cái Bè. (Meals: B, L, D)
After breakfast on board, we cross to Vĩnh Long Island for a morning ride of about 19 miles (30km). The route takes us along quiet, shaded paths through a tropical landscape of banana groves, mango trees and dragon fruit orchards. The pace is easy, with plenty of time for photos and interaction with locals.
Midday, we return to the junk for lunch and a short cruise to Trà Ôn Island, where we enjoy another cycling loop, visiting small villages and exploring narrow paths that wind through the vegetation. You may see floating schools, open-air kitchens and riverside temples along the way.
As the day winds down, we gather on board for a final dinner on the boat and enjoy the serene evening atmosphere of the Mekong Delta, where life continues at its own rhythm. (Meals: B, L, D)
This morning, we cruise into Cần Thơ, the largest city in the Mekong Delta. After breakfast, we head out by boat to experience the floating market, one of the few remaining in the region. Local vendors in wooden boats display colourful fruits, vegetables and other goods, offering a vivid snapshot of delta commerce.
We also visit a local farmer’s market on land, which bursts with activity and colour. It’s the perfect place to observe daily life and perhaps purchase a few last-minute gifts or souvenirs.
After an early lunch, we check out from the junk and begin our return journey to Hồ Chí Minh City, arriving by late afternoon. The evening is free to explore the city’s nightlife or rest at the hotel. (Meals: B, L)
Today offers a mix of cultural insight and urban energy as we explore Vietnam’s largest metropolis. Our morning guided tour introduces you to the architectural and historical highlights of the former Saigon, including the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office, Reunification Palace, and the People’s Committee Building.
In the afternoon, you’re free to explore on your own. You might choose to visit one of the city’s many museums, walk along Dong Khoi Street, or dive into the Bến Thành Market, where everything from textiles to spices is on offer.
In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner. It’s a wonderful chance to reflect on the many memories made and to toast the end of a remarkable journey. (Meals: B, L, D)
We recommend flying to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) and returning from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN).
In Vietnam, you will spend four nights on board one of the traditional Vietnamese Junks. Several ships are available in the two sailing areas. The boat provides approx. 10 to 11 elegant furnished guest cabins (between 8 – 12 m2 / 86.1 – 129.1 sq.ft) with a double bed or 2 single beds. All cabins have air conditioning, a large window and their own bathroom with washbasin, shower and WC. There is also a large sundeck with padded lounge chairs – probably the best place to enjoy the views. Hotels (ten overnight stays): These will be in high- spec 3* and 4* hotels in Hanoi, Tam Coc, on Cát Bà Island, in Hue and Hoi An (Central Vietnam) and in Hồ Chí Minh City.
4-star ship
£26 per day
Included with bike hire
Bikes are not included. You are welcome to bring your own bike or hire one. Please see our bike hire section for details.
Flights are not included. Please refer to the what's included section for full details.
We will confirm your booking within 48 hours of receiving your enquiry. Please wait for confirmation before booking flights or making other travel arrangements.
Most itineraries include cycling on most days, with some rest or shorter days built in. Please check the itinerary for day-by-day details.
The latest you can book is 9 days before departure. This gives us enough time to confirm arrangements and accommodation.
You will receive full travel details, including accommodation, meeting points and local contacts, 3 to 5 weeks before departure.
Easy
Leisurely
Easy
Easy
Easy
Leisurely
Moderate
Moderate