Vietnam Motorbike Itinerary: 4 Adrenaline-Filled Routes

Introduction

Vietnam offers some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in Southeast Asia, making it the perfect destination for motorbike enthusiasts. As someone who has personally experienced the thrill of exploring Vietnam by motorbike, we can attest to the memorable experiences that await you.  In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with a complete Vietnam motorbike itinerary, including suggested routes, must-see destinations, and practical tips for a safe and enjoyable experience. Get ready for an epic journey unlike any other!

Vietnam Motorbike Itinerary: Recommended Options

Saigon to Hanoi: A Classic Motorbike Tour

The Saigon to Hanoi route is the most popular motorbike itinerary in Vietnam, covering a distance of approximately 1,700 km.  We embarked on this adventure and were blown away by the tropical beaches of Mui Ne and Nha Trang and the rich history of the ancient city of Hoi An and the imperial capital of Hue. Here is a detailed itinerary of the Saigon to Hanoi route: Day 1-2: Saigon to Mui Ne Motorbike Tour We kicked off our adventure in the bustling city of Saigon, navigating through the chaotic traffic and admiring the city’s vibrant energy. Our team then hit the road and rode east towards Mui Ne, enjoying the scenic countryside views. As we rode, we stopped at local roadside stalls to sample some of the delicious Vietnamese street food, such as banh mi sandwiches and freshly squeezed sugarcane juice. We also take breaks to stretch our legs and soak in the local culture, chatting with friendly locals and snapping photos of the picturesque scenery. Mui Ne welcomed us with a refreshing sea breeze and the sound of waves crashing on the shore. We took a dip in the crystal-clear waters and relaxed on the sandy beach, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this charming coastal town. Day 3-4: Mui Ne to Dalat Motorbike Trip Leaving the relaxing beaches of Mui Ne behind, we headed north toward the charming city of Dalat—the road winds and twists, taking us through lush green forests and rolling hills. The breathtaking Pongour waterfall held us back to marvel at the power and beauty of the cascading water. The mist from the waterfall creates a refreshing coolness in the air, providing a welcome relief from the hot and humid weather.  

After taking in the stunning scenery, our team geared up for a Dalat motorbike tour. As we approached the city, we were greeted by the sight of colorful flower gardens and elegant French colonial buildings. Dalat is littered with many charming streets that my buddies and I couldn’t help but admire the unique architecture and browse the local markets. We also visited some coffee plantations in the surrounding hills, sampling some of the region’s famous locally-grown coffee. Day 5-6: From Dalat to Nha Trang Motorbike Route Leaving the city of Dalat, our journey continued toward the seaside town of Nha Trang. The first thing that caught our attention was the road leading there, with dreamlike and truly desirable landscapes. We passed through mountain passes and tea and coffee plantations, enjoying colorful scenery. However, difficulties on the road, such as broken roads and large trucks moving around, somewhat dampened our morale a bit. The first moment we set foot in Nha Trang, the sparkling blue ocean and long stretches of golden sand beaches made us eye-opening and jaw-dropping. We were excited to soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and blend in the town’s laid-back atmosphere. During our visit, we explored the Po Nagar Cham towers, an ancient complex of Hindu temples dating back to the 8th century. The intricate designs of the towers spoke to the rich history and cultural heritage of the Cham people. The evening was perfect for a stroll along the beach promenade, letting the cool sea breeze caress our faces and watching lively street performers. We also tried the town’s seafood and tropical cocktails, immersing ourselves in Nha Trang’s vibrant nightlife. Day 7-8: From Nha Trang to Hoi An Motorcycle Tour Our next stop was the charming town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ancient buildings, lantern-lit streets, and delectable cuisine. Riding north from Nha Trang, we were excited to see what Hoi An had in store for us. On the way, we crossed the Hai Van Pass, a scenic mountain road offering breathtaking coastline views. The winding road led us through verdant forests and past panoramic vistas of the shimmering sea below. The moment we arrived in Hoi An, we were enchanted by the town’s enchanting ambiance. The narrow streets were adorned with vibrant lanterns, casting a warm glow on the ancient buildings that exuded a sense of mystery and history. We were eager to explore the famous landmarks that Hoi An is known for, such as the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese.

During our stay in Hoi An, we also indulged in the local cuisine, sampling dishes like cao lau and banh mi. We even took a cooking class to learn how to recreate the flavors back home. Day 9-10: Hoi An to Hue Motorbike Ride From Hoi An, we continued our journey north to the historic city of Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. The city’s rich history and cultural heritage were evident in its ancient citadel, royal tombs, and pagodas. While exploring the majestic Hue Citadel, we admired the intricate architecture and grandeur of the imperial palace. The citadel’s walls, moats, and gates were well-preserved, and we could imagine what it must have been like during the Nguyen dynasty. The royal tombs of the emperors, which were scattered throughout the countryside surrounding Hue, were also included in our itinerary. Each tomb had its own unique style and design, reflecting the personality and taste of the emperor who commissioned it. One of the highlights of our visit was a boat ride on the Perfume River, which offered stunning views of the city and its surroundings. We disembarked at the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most iconic temples in Vietnam. The pagoda’s seven-tiered tower was a striking sight against the backdrop of the river and the lush green hills.

Ha Giang Loop Motorcycle Tour: A Journey To Remote North Vietnam

For those seeking a more adventurous route, the Ha Giang loop is a must-see. Located in the northernmost province of Vietnam, Ha Giang boasts some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes, from steep mountains and deep valleys to rice terraces and waterfalls. Here’s an itinerary for the Ha Giang Loop:

Day 1-2: Hanoi to Ha Giang City Motorcycle Trip This itinerary started in Hanoi and rode towards Ha Giang City, the gateway to the legendary Ha Giang Loop. As we set out on our motorbikes, we were filled with anticipation for the breathtaking landscapes that awaited us. On our way to Ha Giang City, we made a stop at the Vuong Palace, the grand residence of a Hmong king. The palace’s impressive architecture and intricate details left us in awe, and we couldn’t help but imagine what life must have been like for the royal family. > View more: Ha Giang loop motorbike tours 2024-2025 Another highlight of our journey was visiting the Lung Tam village, renowned for its traditional weaving. We had the opportunity to witness the skilled artisans at work, using age-old techniques to create beautiful fabrics and intricate designs. We even had a chance to try our hand at weaving and were amazed at the precision and patience required for this craft. Riding further north towards Ha Giang City, we were struck by the stunning mountain scenery and the winding roads that led us deeper into the wilderness. The Ha Giang Loop beckoned, and we were excited to explore its many twists and turns, scenic viewpoints, and remote villages.

Day 3-4: Ha Giang City to Dong Van Motorcycle Route The next leg of our journey took us through the awe-inspiring Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark that boasts some of the most breathtaking rock formations and stunning landscapes in Vietnam. Snaking along the winding mountain roads, we were surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, picturesque valleys, and charming ethnic villages. Visiting the Lung Cu Flag Tower was undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating experiences of our journey. As our team climbed the hill and reached the top, we were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys. Standing at the northernmost point of Vietnam, we felt a sense of awe and wonder as we gazed out at the vast expanse of nature stretching out before us. The ethnic minority villages in the area looked so picturesque that they stirred up our itchy feet; we learned about the local culture, traditions, and way of life there. The friendly locals welcomed us with open arms, and we enjoyed trying some of the traditional foods and beverages that are unique to this region. Our journey through Meo Vac’s mountainous region was a highlight of our motorcycle trip. We eagerly anticipated exploring the area’s natural and cultural treasures, with the Ma Pi Leng Pass being the most spectacular.  Carved into the side of a mountain in the 1960s by workers risking their lives, the 20-kilometer winding road offers breathtaking views of the deep valley below and towering peaks above.

Day 5-6: Dong Van to Meo Vac Besides the stunning scenery, we immersed ourselves in the traditional markets and villages of the Hmong and Dao ethnic groups. Learning about their customs and way of life was a humbling experience, and their resilience and sense of community struck us. The local cuisine was another highlight, with its amazing flavors and freshness of ingredients.

Day 7-8: Meo Vac to Yen Minh Motorcycle Ride Days 7 and 8 were dedicated to discovering Yen Minh with the breathtaking views of the Nho Que River and the surrounding mountains.  We kept turning our heads at the stunning natural scenery and a sense of peace and tranquility along the way. Our team also had the chance to visit the Pho Bang village, an ancient town that has retained its traditional architecture and way of life. Day 9-10: Yen Minh to Hanoi Motorbike Tour On days 9 and 10, we made our way back to Hanoi, feeling both exhilarated and exhausted from our adventure through one of Vietnam’s most remote and beautiful regions.  We were grateful for the memories and experiences we had gained on our journey and looked forward to returning home with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Vietnam’s culture and heritage.

Central Highlands Motorbike Trip: A Scenic Ride Through The Heart of Vietnam

Another popular route for motorbike enthusiasts is the Central Highlands region, located in the southern part of Vietnam. This region offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural diversity, with coffee plantations, waterfalls, and ethnic minority groups. Here’s a Vietnam motorcycle itinerary for a Central Highlands ride: Day 1-2: Nha Trang to Dalat Motorbike Trip We were at fever pitch when embarking on our motorcycle tour from Nha Trang to Dalat, throwing each of us into an emotional roller-coaster. The road stretched out before us, winding through lush forests and past rural villages. The Ngoan Muc Pass was our first stop, where we were greeted with awe-inspiring views of the Vietnamese countryside. As we arrived in Dalat, we were greeted with the city’s famous flower gardens and stunning architecture. The city was alive with vibrant energy, and we couldn’t wait to explore its many sights and sounds. A wander through the bustling streets filled our souls with youth and nostalgia and treated us to many local delicacies. Day 3-4: Dalat to Buon Ma Thuot Motorbike Route Continuing our journey through the Central Highlands, we were immersed in the natural beauty of the region. The rolling hills were covered in lush coffee plantations, and we pulled over to admire the stunning scenery and learn about the coffee-making process. Our next destination was the Dray Sap and Dray Nur waterfalls, where we took a refreshing swim in the cool waters. The sound of the rushing water and the misty spray was invigorating and rejuvenating.

We also visited the nearby Lak Lake and Jun village, where we had the opportunity to experience the daily life of the local people. We learned about their customs and traditions and were struck by their hospitality and warmth.  It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to ride an elephant and explore the surrounding countryside, and we even tried making traditional pottery for the very first time. Day 5-6: Buon Ma Thuot to Kon Tum Motorcycle Tour Along the border of Cambodia lies the Kon Tum province, which is renowned for its cultural heritage and natural beauty. The area is home to a number of fascinating sites, including the Wooden Church, a unique architectural masterpiece built by French missionaries in the early 20th century. We also visited the Kon Klor suspension bridge, an engineering marvel that spans the DakBla River and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. The bridge is particularly impressive at sunset when the sky turns shades of orange and pink. Another highlight of our trip was a visit to the Dak To hot springs, a natural wonder that is known for its healing properties. We soaked in the warm mineral water and felt our muscles relax after a long day of riding. > View more: Motorbike tour Ho Chi Minh Trail 2024-2025 Day 7-8: Kon Tum to Hue Motorcycle Trip Leaving Kon Tum, we headed east towards the historic city of Hue, passing through the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail along the way. The trail was used during the Vietnam War to transport troops and supplies, and it was surreal to ride along this historic route and imagine what it must have been like during the war. But before reaching Hue, we made a stop at the Vinh Moc Tunnels, an intricate system of tunnels that the Vietnamese used during the war to shelter from bombing raids. It was a humbling experience to see how the Vietnamese people persevered through such difficult times. After visiting the tunnels, we continued on to Hue and spent the next two days exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.  We visited the ancient citadel, which served as the seat of the Nguyen emperors during the 19th and early 20th centuries, and the royal tombs of several Nguyen emperors. We also explored the bustling markets and tried out some of the delicious local street food.

Mekong Delta – Vietnam Motorbike Tours

The Mekong Delta in southwestern Vietnam is a comprehensive system of rivers and canals that flows into the sea. Below was our itinerary there: Day 1: Saigon to My Tho Motorbike Tour We started our exciting journey in Saigon, the bustling and energetic city that is the perfect gateway to exploring the stunning Mekong Delta. As we headed south towards My Tho, a charming city located on the banks of the Tien River, the real Vietnam gradually unfurled in front of our eyes. En route, we stopped at the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network of tunnels that the Viet Cong used during the Vietnam War. This historical site offered us an insightful look into Vietnam’s war history and the guerrilla fighters’ ingenious tactics.  My Tho – our next destination – was packed with picturesque villages and towns, allowing us to get immersed in the vibrant local culture of the region. We also had the opportunity to witness the daily life of the local people, who rely on the Mekong Delta for their livelihoods. Day 2: My Tho to Can Tho Motorcycle Route Riding deeper into the Mekong Delta, we felt the pace of life slowing down around us. We took a break at the Vinh Trang Pagoda, a serene and peaceful Buddhist temple surrounded by lush gardens and lotus ponds. Our 1-hour visit was not enough to explore the temple and appreciate the intricate architecture and carvings. Our motorbike tour continued to Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta. The city was bustling with activity, and we were fascinated by the unique blend of traditional and modern lifestyles.  A boat ride led us to the Cai Rang floating market, where local vendors sold their produce from boats on the river. The sights, sounds, and smells of the market were overwhelming, and we were amazed by the resourcefulness and ingenuity of the vendors.

Day 3: Can Tho to Chau Doc Motorcycle Ride On day 3 of our journey, we went from Can Tho towards Chau Doc, a small city located near the Cambodian border. Along the way, we stopped at the Tra Su Cajuput Forest, a protected nature reserve that was known for its birdlife and lush vegetation. We took a boat ride through the mangrove forest and spotted various birds, fish, and reptiles. The Tra Su Cajuput Forest was breathtaking, with its towering trees and dense foliage. The boat ride allowed us to immerse ourselves in the tranquil surroundings and appreciate the beauty of nature. We were lucky to spot many colorful birds, including kingfishers and egrets, and even saw some snakes and turtles sunning themselves on the banks of the water. After our visit to the Tra Su Cajuput Forest, our team went on to Chau Doc, where we stayed for the night, looking forward to exploring more of the city and its surroundings the next day. Day 4: Chau Doc to Ha Tien Motorbike Tour On day 4, we rode south from Chau Doc towards the coastal city of Ha Tien, which was a peaceful retreat from the bustling cities we had visited earlier.  Sam Mountain, which is considered a sacred site in Vietnam, was one of our stops along the way. The mountain provided us with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Mekong Delta.

Afterward, we visited the Thach Dong Pagoda, a complex of Buddhist temples built into the mountain’s caves. The pagoda was truly a sight to behold, with its intricate carvings and statues. We explored the various shrines and halls, learning about the history and significance of each one. Ha Tien, which was a charming town with a chilling vibe, stripped off all our tiredness on the go. We strolled along the beach and enjoyed the fresh seafood that the town is famous for.  Day 5: Ha Tien to Saigon Motorbike Trip The final day of our journey was spent going back to Saigon, and we felt fulfilled and inspired by our experiences in the Mekong Delta.  As we continued our ride back to Saigon, we reflected on the incredible beauty and diversity of the Mekong Delta region.  We were grateful for the opportunity to experience its natural wonders and immerse ourselves in its vibrant culture and traditions. Our motorbike route had been a truly enriching and unforgettable adventure.

Final Thoughts

No matter which motorcycle tour you choose, the Vietnam motorbike itinerary promises to be an unforgettable destination, offering stunning scenery, rich culture, and thrilling adventures. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip today and experience the beauty and diversity of Vietnam by motorbike! What riders have said about Vietnam Motorcycle Tours on Tripadvisor!