Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, has been recognized by Booking.com as a top destination for cyclists and eco-conscious travelers.
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| Hoan Kiem Lake – a cyclist’s paradise. Image: Wiibike |
Hanoi offers a unique blend of historical charm and exhilarating cycling opportunities. The city has implemented initiatives to reduce vehicle traffic in the Old Quarter, making it more pedestrian and bicycle-friendly. Exploring the narrow lanes of the Old Quarter by bike is an experience like no other.
“One of the must-do activities is to cycle around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake or along the tranquil West Lake, both offering dedicated cycling paths for a safe and scenic ride,” says a spokesperson for Booking.com.
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| The picturesque bike route encircling West Lake. Image: Bong Hong |
West Lake, a favorite among locals and expats, provides cyclists with a chance to take in the beautiful scenery and discover historical gems like the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the city’s oldest Buddhist temple, and the Quan Thanh Temple, one of Hanoi’s four sacred temples.
Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of the city, is another cycling hotspot. It’s perfect for early morning or late afternoon rides, with lush green pathways and stunning reflections of the But Thap and the ancient Ngoc Son Temple on the lake’s crystal waters.
The recently introduced Thang Long – Hanoi Night Cycling Tour invites travelers to discover Hanoi’s nightlife and cultural attractions, including museums, historical sites, and the Night Food Street.
This 90 to 120-minute tour starts at the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum and covers iconic landmarks such as the Hanoi Flagpole, Thang Long Imperial Citadel, Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and more, ending with a delicious food stop at the Ngu Xa Pearl Island Night Street Food market.
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| Hanoi offers cyclists a choice of modern cityscapes or lush green parks. Image: Bong Hong |
Hanoi is committed to promoting cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation. This year, a new four-meter-wide bicycle path along the To Lich River was unveiled, connecting two metro lines for seamless public transport access. The city also plans to designate car-free cycling zones around Hoa Binh Park and Hoang Minh Thao Street.
According to Booking.com, 63% of Vietnamese travelers are opting for more sustainable transportation options in 2024. This shift is evident, as half of Vietnamese travelers are intentionally planning trips that include walking or cycling as a primary mode of exploration.
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| Hanoi’s green spaces provide a peaceful escape for cyclists. Image: Bong Hong |
With World Bicycle Day and World Environment Day this month, there’s no better time to consider the environmental impact of travel choices. Embrace sustainable transportation and explore Hanoi’s beauty by bike, along with other recommended cycling destinations in Vietnam, such as Hue, Hoi An, Danang, Dalat, and the picturesque town of Sapa.
These destinations offer not just stunning scenery but also a chance to be a part of the growing trend of sustainable tourism. Vietnam’s cycling hotspots provide the perfect opportunity for travelers to connect with nature and create memorable, responsible experiences.
Vietnam Military History Museum receives Fatherland Protection Order
NDO – The Vietnam Military History Museum held a ceremony in Hanoi on July 15 to celebrate its 60th anniversary (1956-2016) and receive the Fatherland Protection Order, first class.
Ancient house in Ma May
NDO – Ma May, a rare quarter that still retains several old houses, has created one of the characteristics of Hanoi. Hanoi’s streets are becoming increasingly crowded and traditional features can sometimes be hidden behind modern life. But if one takes the time to relax and look around, the ancient features begin to reveal themselves.
Hanoi, HCM City see good growth of tourism revenue
NDO – In the first ten months of 2016, the revenue of Ho Chi Minh City’s tourism industry amounted to VND80 trillion while Hanoi’s reached over VND50 trillion.
Book festival “Hanoi – City for Peace” opens
NDO – The Hanoi book festival with the theme “Hanoi – City for Peace” opened at the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi on October 2, as part of activities to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the capital’s Liberation Day (October 10, 1954-2019).
Russian Film Week opens in Hanoi
NDO – Russian film-lovers in Hanoi will have a chance to enjoy the country’s well-known films with free entrance from December 9 to 13 during the “Russian film week in Hanoi”.
