Jan - 02 - 2026
Cycling in Ho Chi Minh City offers a unique way to explore the city beyond motorbikes and taxis. From leafy urban parks and scenic riverside roads to countryside escapes and long-distance endurance routes, cycling lets you experience Saigon at a slower, more intimate pace. This GTrip guide brings together the best places for cycling in Ho Chi Minh City, featuring 12+ carefully selected routes for all levels, along with practical tips on bike rentals and road safety. Whether you’re a casual rider or a serious cyclist, this guide helps you plan a safe, rewarding, and memorable ride through the city.
1. Explore inner-city attractions in Ho Chi Minh City on a full-day route
- Total length: 30km
- Route: Chinatown - Binh Tay Market - Thien Hau Pagoda - War Remnants Museum - Independence Palace - Notre Dame Cathedral - Central Post Office - Saigon Opera House
This route is the quintessential urban cycling adventure, weaving through the historical and cultural tapestry of Saigon. It’s a fantastic way to see the city’s most famous landmarks in a single, active day. Starting in the bustling and atmospheric Chinatown, you’ll dive into a world of vibrant markets and ornate temples. The ride then transitions to the grand, French colonial architecture of former District 1.
This journey is a study in contrasts, highlighting the city’s dynamic blend of old and new. You’ll feel the palpable history as you pedal from the ancient Thien Hau Pagoda to the solemn War Remnants Museum and the iconic Independence Palace (Reunification Palace). This route isabout experiencing the city’s rhythm firsthand. We recommend starting early to avoid both the midday heat and the peak traffic, allowing you to enjoy the sights at a more relaxed pace. This is one of the best places for cycling in Ho Chi Minh City to truly understand its layered history.
An immersive urban cycling route that connects Saigon’s historic landmarks, cultural districts, and colonial heritage in one dynamic ride
2. Gia Dinh Park - A green cycling spot near the airport
- Total length: 3 - 5 km (per loop)
- Route: Hoang Minh Giam Street - Bach Dang Street - Internal park paths
Gia Dinh Park is a beloved green oasis for locals and a perfect spot for a refreshing ride. Known as one of the city's largest parks, it offers a welcome escape from the urban hustle. The wide, well-paved internal paths are shaded by hundreds of mature trees, making it an ideal location for cycling even during warmer parts of the day. The relatively flat terrain and manageable loop distance make it suitable for all fitness levels, including families with children. The atmosphere here is relaxed and community-oriented. You’ll share the space with locals jogging, practicing tai chi, or simply enjoying the fresh air. The park’s main appeal for cyclists is its safe, car-free environment, allowing you to pedal freely without worrying about traffic.
3. Go Vap Cultural Park for relaxed city cycling
- Total length: 20km
- Route: Nguyen Van Luong Street entrance - Vam Thuat riverside path - Internal loop
For those seeking a more local and less-crowded cycling spot, Go Vap Cultural Park offers a fantastic alternative. This expansive park provides a wonderful blend of recreational space and natural scenery, centered around the tranquil Vam Thuat riverside path. The main loop offers a considerable distance for a satisfying workout, but the real draw is the peaceful ambiance. Unlike the central parks, Go Vap has a distinct neighborhood feel, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of Saigonese residents outside the main tourist areas.
The paths are generally wide and well-maintained, suitable for both casual riders and those looking to build up some speed. The key highlight is the long stretch along the Vam Thuat River, where you can enjoy cool breezes and scenic water views. It’s an excellent choice for an afternoon ride, as you can watch the cityscape soften in the golden light. This route is perfect for cyclists who want to combine their exercise with a bit of urban exploration off the beaten path.
A peaceful, local cycling route along the Vam Thuat riverside, perfect for a relaxed ride away from the crowds
4. Major boulevards for urban cycling in Ho Chi Minh City
If you enjoy cycling and want to explore Ho Chi Minh City at a steady yet energizing pace. The following wide and long routes are ideal for both serious training and discovering the city’s modern urban landscape.
Vo Van Kiet Boulevard - Long riverside cycling route
- Total length: 14 kilometers (one-way distance)
- Route: Ba Son Bridge - Tran Hung Dao Statue - Ton Duc Thang Street - Vo Van Kiet Boulevard
Vo Van Kiet Boulevard is a modern marvel of Ho Chi Minh City's infrastructure and a dream for urban cyclists. This wide, smooth road runs parallel to the Tau Hu Canal, offering expansive views and a relatively uninterrupted path for long-distance riding. Starting at the Tran Hung Dao Statue, the route heads west along the water, revealing a blend of historic shophouses and modern high-rises.
The journey offers a fascinating look at different districts and a different pace of life as you move away from the center. The main attraction is the feeling of open space and the scenic views, especially when crossing modern marvels like the Ba Son Bridge. It provides a sense of freedom that's rare in the city's core. For a complete workout, riders often cross the canal to complete the loop, making it a substantial 30 km journey with the city skyline as a constant, beautiful backdrop.
Note: Cross back to the opposite side of Vo Van Kiet Boulevard at Cau Nuoc Len Bridge, then ride toward the city center. The round-trip distance is about 30 km.
Pham Van Dong Boulevard - Wide road ideal for long-distance cycling
- Total length: 14 kilometers (one-way distance)
- Route: Ho Chi Minh City Circus (Gia Dinh Park) - Pham Van Dong Boulevard - Linh Xuan Bridge.
Regarded as one of the city's most beautiful boulevards, Pham Van Dong is a top choice for serious cyclists seeking to train and build endurance. Its key feature is its impressive width, with multiple lanes that provide ample space for riders to find their rhythm without feeling squeezed by traffic, especially during off-peak hours. The road surface is exceptionally smooth, making it ideal for road bikes and allowing for a fast and fluid ride. Starting from the Gia Dinh Park area, the route stretches all the way to the city's outskirts.
This route is less about sightseeing and more about the pure joy of cycling. It is the best option for speed and uninterrupted long-distance training within city limits. Many local cycling clubs and groups use this boulevard for their morning and evening training sessions. The round-trip journey clocks in at nearly 30 km, providing a solid workout. The best times to ride are early in the morning or late at night when traffic is minimal and the air is cooler.
Note: turn back at the Duong So 4 intersection. The round-trip distance is approximately 29.6 km.
Pham Van Dong Boulevard is a wide, smooth route ideal for fast, uninterrupted long-distance cycling and endurance training
Nguyen Van Linh Boulevard - Popular route for endurance cyclists
- Total length: 16 kilometers (one-way distance)
- Route: Phu My Hung Urban Area - Nguyen Van Linh Boulevard - National Highway 1A intersection.
Nguyen Van Linh Boulevard is legendary among the local cycling community, particularly for those dedicated to endurance riding and training. This major artery cuts through the southern part of the city, connecting the modern Phu My Hung area with the western gateway. The road is famously straight and long, offering a challenging course for cyclists looking to test their stamina and push their limits. The environment here is more industrial and open compared to the leafy inner-city routes, giving it a raw, powerful feel.
The route's popularity stems from its demanding nature and the sense of accomplishment it provides. This is the go-to route for cyclists preparing for races or long-distance events, as it allows for sustained effort over a significant distance. While it can have heavy traffic, the road's width provides a dedicated lane for motorbikes and bicycles, offering a degree of separation. Riding here, you’ll be sharing the road with some of the city's most passionate cyclists, creating a motivating and energetic atmosphere.
5. Van Phuc City Urban Area - Modern roads for leisure cycling
- Total length: 5 - 10 km (per loop)
- Route: Nguyen Thi Nhung Street - Riverside park loop - Around Ocean Harmony Lake.
Van Phuc City is a newer, meticulously planned urban area that has quickly become a favorite for leisure cyclists. Located in former Thu Duc City, this residential and commercial hub boasts wide, pristine roads, beautiful landscaping, and a stunning 3.4-kilometer-long park along the Saigon River. This self-contained area offers a safe and picturesque environment, making it perfect for families, casual riders, and anyone looking for a stress-free cycling experience. The infrastructure is modern and well-maintained, with smooth asphalt and minimal traffic within the residential zones.
The main highlight is the expansive riverside park, which features dedicated lanes for cycling and walking, ensuring a safe separation from any vehicle traffic. The route within Van Phuc City allows for pleasant loops with continuous scenic views of the water and green spaces. You can enjoy a peaceful ride past modern villas, charming cafes, and a large central lake. It represents the future of urban planning in Ho Chi Minh City and offers a glimpse into a more relaxed, organized side of city life.
Van Phuc City offers wide, modern roads and scenic riverside paths, making it an ideal spot for relaxed and family-friendly cycling
6. Phu My Hung New Urban Area - One of the best cycling areas in Saigon (Starlight Bridge night cycling experience)
- Total length: 25km
- Route: Ton Dat Tien Street - Starlight Bridge - Crescent Lake - Me Linh Square.
Phu My Hung is widely considered one of the absolute best places for cycling in Ho Chi Minh City. This master-planned community stands in stark contrast to the rest of the city, with its clean streets, manicured parks, and wide, tree-lined avenues. It offers a safe, organized, and refreshingly green environment that is a joy to explore on two wheels. You can spend hours cycling through its various neighborhoods, each with its own unique character, without the usual stress of Saigon traffic.
The area's crown jewel for cyclists is the route around Crescent Lake. The must-do experience here is a night ride across the Starlight Bridge. The bridge comes alive after dark with a dazzling display of colorful LED lights and a waterfall feature, creating a magical atmosphere. Pedalling through Ban Nguyet Park and along the lake, with the glittering bridge as your centerpiece, is an unforgettable Saigon memory. This route is perfect for a romantic evening, a family outing, or a peaceful solo ride to clear your head.
7. Sala Urban Area - Scenic cycling route in Thao Dien Area
- Total length: 5 km (ideal for repeated loops and training).
- Route: Thao Dien Street - internal Sala Urban Area loops along Mai Chi Tho Boulevard.
The Sala Urban Area, situated in the burgeoning Thu Thiem peninsula, offers one of the most scenic and modern cycling experiences in the city. Directly across the river from District 1, it provides breathtaking, panoramic views of the downtown skyline. This area is characterized by its new, perfectly paved roads, vast green spaces, and ambitious modern architecture. It feels like a city within a city, providing a peaceful and spacious environment that is ideal for cycling training and leisure rides.
While the provided route details connect to the Thao Dien area, Sala itself is a prime destination. Its internal loops are perfect for repeated training, allowing cyclists to focus on performance in a safe, low-traffic setting. The route along Mai Chi Tho Boulevard and through the internal roads of Sala showcases the scale of this new development. A ride through the adjacent Saigon Bridge Park further enhances the experience, offering green spaces to relax and enjoy the river views. It’s a favorite for ex-pats and locals who appreciate high-quality infrastructure and stunning city vistas.
Sala Urban Area offers smooth roads, open green spaces, and stunning skyline views, making it one of the most scenic cycling spots in Ho Chi Minh City
8. Hoang Sa - Truong Sa riverside cycling route
- Total length: 14 kilometers
- Route: Da Kao Clock Tower - Hoang Sa Street - Thi Nghe Bridge (Binh Thanh District)
The Hoang Sa and Truong Sa cycling route is a journey through the heart of local Saigon life. These two streets run parallel to each other along the Nhieu Loc-Thi Nghe Canal, which was part of a major revitalization project that transformed it into a clean and pleasant corridor through several districts. This 14-kilometer route is almost entirely flat and offers a continuous, uninterrupted path that is perfect for a leisurely but substantial ride. It’s a favorite for morning and evening exercise among residents.
What makes this route special is the slice-of-life scenery. As you pedal, you’ll pass by bustling local markets, charming coffee shops with patrons spilling onto the sidewalk, residents fishing in the canal, and kids playing in the small parks that dot the banks. This route offers an authentic, unfiltered view of daily life in Ho Chi Minh City away from the main tourist attractions. Starting from the Da Kao Clock Tower, you follow the canal's entire length, observing the city's character change from the more central District 3 to the vibrant Binh Thanh District.
Note: Turn onto Truong Sa Street at the end of the Nhieu Loc Canal for the return journey.
9. Thanh Da - Binh Quoi cycling route for a countryside feel
- Total length: 15km
- Route: Thi Nghe Bridge - Xo Viet Nghe Tinh Street to Thanh Da Bridge - a loop around the peninsula.
If you're craving a quick escape from the concrete jungle without leaving the city, the Thanh Da - Binh Quoi route is your perfect solution. This small peninsula in former Binh Thanh District feels like a world away from the bustling city center. As soon as you cross the Thanh Da Bridge, the pace of life slows dramatically. The roads become narrower, flanked by lush greenery, traditional homes, and serene fishing ponds.
The ride is a sensory experience filled with the sights and sounds of rural life. You’ll cycle past fields of morning glory, simple riverside restaurants serving fresh seafood, and through the popular Binh Quoi Tourist Village. The route’s main appeal is its tranquil, village-like atmosphere, offering a refreshing break and a completely different cycling experience. It's an easy, flat ride that’s more about soaking in the peaceful scenery than athletic performance, making it ideal for a relaxed weekend morning adventure.
A peaceful cycling escape to Thanh Da - Binh Quoi, offering rural scenery and calm riverside paths just minutes from the city
10. Ho Da Lake - Vietnam National University cycling route
- Total length: 23km (one way)
- Route: Ba Son Bridge (former District 1) - Nguyen Huu Canh Street - Vo Nguyen Giap Street - Ho Da (Stone Lake) - VNU-HCM University Village.
This route is for the adventurous cyclist looking to explore the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City and get a rewarding workout. The journey takes you from the city center, across the Saigon River, and deep into former Thu Duc City, home to the sprawling Vietnam National University (VNU) campus. The ride itself is a transition from dense urban landscapes to the more open, academic setting of the university village. The roads leading to and within the campus are generally well-paved and see less traffic than the main city arteries.
The ultimate destination is Ho Da (Stone Lake), a hidden gem known for its rugged, scenic beauty. This former quarry has filled with water, creating a stunning lake surrounded by stone cliffs. The challenging ride is rewarded with spectacular, photogenic views that feel a world away from Saigon. The area around the lake and throughout the VNU campus offers hilly terrain, providing a great challenge for climbers and those looking to add some intensity to their ride.
11. Lai Thieu pottery village cycling route (Former Binh Duong Province)
- Total length: 25km
- Route: Ha Huy Giap Street (District 12) - Phu Long Bridge - Lai Thieu Center - pottery workshops.
Embark on a cultural cycling journey to the historic Lai Thieu pottery village, located just across the border in former Binh Duong Province. This ride is an exploration of a traditional craft that has been part of this region for generations. The route takes you north out of the city, crossing the Phu Long Bridge into a landscape that feels distinctly more rural. The roads become quieter, passing through a charming area known for its fruit orchards.
The heart of the ride is visiting the pottery workshops scattered throughout Lai Thieu. Here, you can dismount and watch skilled artisans at work, transforming clay into beautiful ceramics, from simple bowls to ornate vases. Many workshops welcome visitors and have small shops where you can buy a unique, handmade souvenir. This route blends exercise with cultural and historical discovery for a truly memorable experience.
A cultural cycling route to Lai Thieu pottery village, combining peaceful rural roads with traditional craftsmanship and local heritage
12. Can Gio coastal cycling route - The green lung of Ho Chi Minh City
- Total length: Approximately 45 kilometers (one-way)
- Route: Binh Khanh Ferry Station - Rung Sac Street - Can Gio Beach or Vam Sat Ecological Center.
The Can Gio cycling route is the ultimate day trip for nature lovers and endurance riders. This journey takes you to the city's "green lung", a vast UNESCO Biosphere Reserve composed of lush mangrove forests. The adventure begins with a short ferry ride from Binh Khanh, which immediately transports you from the urban sprawl to a world of greenery and fresh air. From there, the main route follows the straight, well-paved Rung Sac Street, which cuts directly through the heart of the mangrove forest.
The ride is long but incredibly rewarding. You’ll be surrounded by the unique ecosystem of the mangroves, with the chance to spot local wildlife. The air is cleaner, the scenery is dramatic, and the sense of peace is profound. This is an epic coastal adventure that showcases a completely different side of Ho Chi Minh City. Your final destination can be Can Gio Beach for a seafood lunch or the Vam Sat Ecological Center to explore the forest more deeply. This is a must-do for any serious cyclist visiting Saigon.
13. Cu Chi countryside cycling route
- Total length: 20 - 60 km (depending on starting point)
- Route: Hoc Mon - Provincial Road 15 - Cu Chi Tunnels (Ben Duoc or Ben Dinh)
Combine history and exercise with a powerful cycling trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This route offers a profound journey through the Vietnamese countryside to one of the most significant historical sites in the country. Depending on your starting point, the ride can be a moderate trip or a serious long-distance challenge. The journey takes you northwest of the city, transitioning from urban neighborhoods to quiet rural roads lined with rice paddies, rubber plantations, and small villages.
Cycling to the tunnels provides a context that bus tours cannot. You experience the landscape at a human pace, gaining a deeper appreciation for the area where the historic events took place. The ride itself is a peaceful and scenic tour through rural Vietnam, culminating in a humbling visit to the tunnel network. You can choose to visit either the Ben Duoc or Ben Dinh site. This route is not just a physical challenge but also an emotional and educational pilgrimage, making it one of the most meaningful cycling experiences you can have in the region.
A challenging and meaningful cycling route to the Cu Chi Tunnels, blending rural scenery with deep historical significance
14. Vung Tau coastal cycling route from Ho Chi Minh City
- Total length: ~78km (one way)
- Route: Cat Lai Ferry - Nhon Trach Ward - National Highway 51 - Vung Tau City.
For the truly dedicated endurance cyclist, the ride from Ho Chi Minh City to the coastal city of Vung Tau is a classic rite of passage. This is a significant undertaking, an inter-city journey that requires fitness, preparation, and a full day. The adventure starts with the Cat Lai Ferry, a quintessential Saigon experience that takes you across the Dong Nai River. Once in Nhon Trach, you’ll navigate through a mix of industrial zones and rural roads before joining the main artery, National Highway 51.
While Highway 51 can be busy, it's the most direct path to the coast. The challenge is immense, but the reward is even greater. The feeling of seeing the ocean appear on the horizon after a long ride is an incredible accomplishment. Upon arrival in Vung Tau, you can reward yourself with fresh seafood, a swim in the ocean, and the satisfaction of having connected two cities by your own pedal power. This route is the ultimate test of stamina and a true adventure for serious cyclists.
Your guide to renting a bike in Ho Chi Minh City
Renting a bike in Ho Chi Minh City is easy and affordable, opening up all the amazing routes this guide has to offer. You have several options for bike rentals, each catering to different needs. These options include local bike shops, specialized rental companies, and bike-sharing apps. For short, inner-city trips, the public bike-sharing service TNGo is convenient, with stations in former District 1. For higher quality bikes suitable for long-distance routes, it's best to visit a dedicated rental shop. Popular choices include The Bike Shop and Saigon Bike Life, which offer a range of well-maintained bicycles.
When renting, expect to provide an ID or a cash deposit. A standard city bike or hybrid bike typically costs between 150,000 to 250,000 VND (about $6 - $10 USD) per day. Road bikes and high-performance mountain bikes will cost more. A good rental should always include a helmet and a lock. Be sure to check the bike's condition, test the brakes, check the tyre pressure, and ensure the gears shift smoothly before you ride away on your Saigon adventure.
Bike rentals in Ho Chi Minh City are affordable and convenient, offering everything from public bike-sharing to high-quality bikes for long-distance cycling
Read more: Bike Rental in Ho Chi Minh City: Top 10 Trusted Places & Local Tips
A guide to safety when cycling in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City's traffic can seem chaotic, but don't let that discourage you. With the right precautions and a confident attitude, cycling here is a manageable and incredibly rewarding experience. The key is to ride predictably and stay aware of your surroundings, especially the thousands of motorbikes that will be sharing the road with you. Adopting a defensive but assertive riding style is the safest way to navigate the streets. Remember that you are part of the flow of traffic.
- Always wear a helmet: This is non-negotiable. It's the single most important piece of safety gear.
- Ride predictably: Avoid sudden swerving or stopping. Use hand signals if you can, but primarily focus on maintaining a steady path and speed.
- Stay right: The right-hand lane is the designated lane for motorbikes and bicycles. Stay in this lane and let faster traffic pass on your left.
- Use lights: If riding in the early morning or at night, use a white front light and a red rear light to ensure you are visible.
- Watch for motorbikes: They are everywhere. Be aware of bikes pulling out from side streets or weaving through traffic.
- Stay hydrated: The tropical climate means you'll sweat a lot. Carry plenty of water, especially on longer rides.
FAQs for first-time cyclists in Ho Chi Minh City
Navigating a new city on two wheels can bring up a few questions. To help you feel confident before your first ride, we've answered some of the most common queries from first-time cyclists in Ho Chi Minh City.
1. When is the best time for cycling in Ho Chi Minh City?
Early morning (5:00 AM - 8:00 AM) and late evening (after 7:00 PM) are the best times to ride, helping you avoid the intense midday heat and peak rush-hour traffic for a safer, more enjoyable experience.
2. Is cycling in Ho Chi Minh City safe?
Yes, cycling can be safe if you take the right precautions. While the traffic is different from a city like Hanoi, it has its own rhythm. By following the safety rules outlined in our guide such as wearing a helmet, staying aware, and riding predictably you can safely navigate the city.
3. Best bike type for Ho Chi Minh City?
A hybrid or mountain bike is the most versatile choice. These bikes are sturdy enough to handle the varied road conditions, providing a comfortable and reliable ride for most urban and countryside routes.
4. Are there bike lanes?
Dedicated, protected bike lanes are very rare in Ho Chi Minh City. Cyclists are expected to share the right-hand lane of the road with the motorbikes, which generally works well as you become part of the traffic flow. Parks and new urban areas like Phu My Hung or Sala often have dedicated paths.
Essential cycling tips answer common questions on safety, timing, bike types, and road conditions for riding in Ho Chi Minh City
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Cycling in Ho Chi Minh City opens up a surprisingly diverse and exhilarating landscape for riders of all levels. This guide has equipped you with over a dozen routes, essential safety insights, and practical bike rental tips to help you start with confidence. Cycling here is the most intimate way to connect with the city’s soul, feeling the rhythm of the streets, discovering hidden corners, and sharing smiles with friendly locals along the way. So grab a helmet, pick one of these places for cycling in Ho Chi Minh City, and experience Saigon from a whole new perspective. The GTrip wishes you an unforgettable journey on two wheels, happy cycling.
