14-Day Vietnam Motorcycle Trip: Saigon To Hanoi

Ride across Vietnam on a 14-day motorcycle adventure from Saigon to Hanoi. The journey begins in the south’s energetic streets and leads you through coastal roads, sandy dunes, and lush highlands.

You’ll explore vibrant towns like Vung Tau, Mui Ne, Da Lat, and Hoi An, each alive with culture and character. The ride carries you deeper into Vietnam’s soul as you discover Hue’s imperial history, the caves of Phong Nha, and the rice valleys of Mai Chau.

Every mile delivers new scenery, authentic encounters, and unforgettable memories before the road brings you into Hanoi, the cultural heart of the north.

14-Day Vietnam Motorcycle Trip: From Saigon To Hanoi

Day 1: Saigon – Vung Tau (120 km / 75 mi)

We kick off the trip by leaving Saigon’s buzzing streets behind and heading south toward the coast.

By afternoon, we roll into Vung Tau beach town, a laid-back seaside town known for its sandy beaches, fishing boats, and local charm.

You can climb up to the Christ of Vung Tau statue for sweeping coastal views or simply stroll along the shoreline. The day winds down with a seafood dinner by the beach before resting up at a hotel, ready for the road ahead.

Day 2: Vung Tau – Mui Ne (220 km / 137 miles)

Ride out of Vung Tau and ride east along scenic coastal roads. The journey winds past fishing villages, rice paddies, and the open sea, with plenty of spots to stop for coffee or fresh seafood. As the kilometers roll by, the scenery shifts—palm groves rise along the roadside, and the sand dunes of Mui Ne begin to appear.

By afternoon, we reach Mui Ne, where the beach town’s calm vibe greets us. The dunes glow in shades of white and red, perfect for exploring, sandboarding, or simply soaking up the surreal desert-meets-ocean views.

Day 3: Mui Ne – Dalat (170 km / 106 miles)

We leave the coast behind and ride up into the Central Highlands. The ride twists through pine forests, valleys, and mountain passes, with waterfalls and rolling hills unfolding along the way.

By afternoon, we arrive in Dalat, a cool highland town known for its lakes, gardens, and French-era charm. After exploring Xuan Huong Lake or the flower gardens, we settle in for dinner and a relaxed evening in Vietnam’s “City of Eternal Spring.”

Day 4: Dalat free day to relax

Today is all about slowing down and enjoying Da Lat’s mountain charm. Start the morning with a walk around Xuan Huong Lake or wander through vibrant flower gardens. Explore landmarks like Domaine de Marie Church or browse the lively Da Lat Market.

In the afternoon, chase waterfalls, sip rich highland coffee, or simply unwind in the town’s cool, peaceful air. The day is yours to savor Da Lat at your own pace.

Day 5: Dalat – Buon Ma Thuot (200 km / 124 miles)

Motorbike adventure leading us to the Buon Ma Thuot, Vietnam’s coffee capital.

The road winds through pine forests, rolling hills, and mountain passes, with plenty of stops to enjoy the views and a local lunch along the way.

By afternoon, arrive in Buon Ma Thuot and dive into its rich coffee culture. Explore plantations, sample freshly brewed cups, or stroll through the lively streets. Dinner features local highland specialties before settling in for a restful night.

Day 6: Buon Ma Thuot – Mang Den (290 km / 180 miles)

Ride deep into Vietnam’s Central Highlands, passing through the historic Ia Drang Valley and endless stretches of quiet countryside.

The road takes you through AnKhe, the mountain passes, forests, and small villages before reaching Mang Den—a hidden gem often called the “second Da Lat” for its cool climate and tranquil pine forests. Settle in for the night surrounded by nature’s calm.

Day 7: Mang Den – Hoi An (250 km / 155 miles)

Leave the cool highlands behind as you ride through Phuoc Son’s winding roads, surrounded by lush forests and dramatic mountains.

By late afternoon, arrive in Hoi An, where lantern-lit streets, ancient houses, and riverside charm welcome you. Enjoy a local dinner and soak in the magic of this UNESCO World Heritage town.

Day 8: Hoi An Fre on your own

Spend the day at your own pace in Hoi An. Wander lantern-lit streets, cross the Japanese Covered Bridge, or shop lively markets for local treasures.

If you crave the sea, relax on An Bang Beach or sip coffee by the river. For more adventure, cycle to Tra Que Vegetable Village or drift along the Thu Bon River.

However you choose, this day lets you fully embrace Hoi An’s charm and tranquility.

Day 9: Hoi An – Hue(150 km / 93 miles)

Ride north along Vietnam’s most iconic coastal route, winding over the legendary Hai Van Pass with sweeping views of mountains and sea. Pause for photos at scenic lookouts before continuing to Hue, the former imperial capital.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Imperial City, royal tombs, and the riverside Thien Mu Pagoda. End the day with a feast of Hue’s signature dishes before settling in for the night.

Day 10: Hue – Khe Sanh (190 km / 118 miles)

Grear up and follow quiet roads west toward the Lao border. The ride takes you along the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail, through lush valleys, dense forests, and remote villages.

Stop for breaks to take in the dramatic scenery and connect with local life. By afternoon, arrive in Khe Sanh, a town once bombed a lot during the Vietnam War and still echoing with history. Explore the former combat base at Ta coon airport museum, or simply relax after the day’s ride, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the region.

Day 11: Khe Sanh – Phong Nha (270 km / 168 miles)

Ride north from Khe Sanh along the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail, passing quiet villages, green valleys, and striking karst mountains. We stop at DMZ site and visit the war memorial, then ride toward the Vinh Moc Tunnel, stop and visit the underground tunnels.

carry on and by afternoon, reach Phong Nha, home to one of the world’s most spectacular cave systems. If time allows, hop on a boat and venture into Phong Nha Cave, where underground rivers and massive chambers create an awe-inspiring finale to the day.

Day 12: Phong Nha – Tan Ky (260 km / 162 miles)

Today we ride deeper into Vietnam’s countryside. The road winds past rice fields, quiet rivers, and small villages where life moves at a slow, timeless pace.

Stop along the way to share a smile or a coffee with locals, a chance to experience genuine Vietnamese warmth and hospitality. By late afternoon, roll into Tan Ky, a modest town that offers a glimpse of rural life away from the tourist trail.

Day 13: Tan Ky – Pu Luong (220 km / 136 miles)

Ride from Tan Ky into the hidden beauty of Pu Luong, where terraced rice fields and jungle-clad mountains stretch as far as the eye can see.

The road winds through peaceful villages, giving you moments to connect with local ethnic communities and their welcoming smiles. In Pu Luong, settle into a stilt house surrounded by nature, wander along lush trails, and enjoy a dinner of local specialties before resting in the valley’s quiet embrace.

Day 14: Pu Luong – Hanoi (170 km / 106 miles)

Your final ride takes you from Pu Luong through winding mountain roads, past lakes, limestone peaks, and rural villages.

As you reach Hanoi by afternoon, the energy of the capital welcomes you back, marking the perfect finish to your unforgettable motorcycle journey across Vietnam.