The Best Roads for Biking in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) 🚴‍♂️🏙

Introduction

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is known for its bustling streets, chaotic traffic, and thousands of motorbikes weaving through the city daily. However, beneath this fast-paced urban landscape, there are hidden gems for cyclists—scenic roads, bike-friendly paths, and lesser-known areas perfect for both casual and serious biking enthusiasts.

This guide will explore the best biking routes in Ho Chi Minh City, covering urban roads, scenic riverside paths, park trails, and long-distance cycling routes. Whether you're looking for a leisurely weekend ride, a fitness challenge, or an alternative commuting route, there's a biking path for you.

1. Best Urban Biking Routes 🏙

These roads are ideal for those who enjoy cycling in the heart of the city while experiencing Ho Chi Minh's unique street life.

1.1 Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street (District 1)

📍 Location: Nguyễn Huệ Boulevard, District 1🚲 Distance: 1 km🌟 Why It’s Great for Biking:

No motorbikes allowed—a rare car-free street in the city.
Perfect for casual rides, family biking, and sightseeing.
Offers a vibrant atmosphere with street performers, cafés, and modern skyscrapers.

Best Time to Ride: Early morning or late evening to avoid pedestrian crowds.

1.2 Bến Bạch Đằng Riverside Road (District 1)

📍 Location: Along the Saigon River, District 1🚲 Distance: 3 km🌟 Why It’s Great for Biking:

A beautiful riverside ride with views of the Saigon River.
Wide sidewalks allow for a leisurely biking experience.
Connects to major landmarks like Landmark 81 and Nguyễn Huệ Street.

Best Time to Ride: Sunset rides offer breathtaking views of the river.

1.3 Trường Sa – Hoàng Sa Canal Route (Districts 1, 3, Phú Nhuận, Tân Bình)

📍 Location: Along the Nhiêu Lộc – Thị Nghè Canal🚲 Distance: 8 km🌟 Why It’s Great for Biking:

One of the longest scenic bike-friendly routes in Saigon.
Car-free pathways make it safe and relaxing.
Features shade from trees, beautiful canal views, and occasional street food vendors.

Best Time to Ride: Early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the heat.

1.4 Thảo Điền Loop (District 2)

📍 Location: Thảo Điền, District 2🚲 Distance: 6 km🌟 Why It’s Great for Biking:

Quiet, clean streets with a mix of luxury residences and local charm.
Plenty of cycling-friendly cafés to take a break.
A good area for fitness biking and exploring the expat community.

Best Time to Ride: Weekend mornings when traffic is minimal.

2. Scenic & Riverside Cycling Routes 🌊

These routes offer fresh air, greenery, and stunning landscapes, making them ideal for nature lovers.

2.1 Thủ Thiêm Bridge & Peninsula (District 2)

📍 Location: Connects District 1 and District 2🚲 Distance: 5-10 km (various loops)🌟 Why It’s Great for Biking:

Less traffic, wide open roads, and scenic skyline views.
Connects to Thủ Thiêm Peninsula, offering quiet rural biking trails.
Perfect for long-distance riders and fitness cyclists.

Best Time to Ride: Sunrise rides offer incredible views of the city waking up.

2.2 Cần Giờ Mangrove Road (Cần Giờ District)

📍 Location: Cần Giờ Biosphere Reserve🚲 Distance: 50 km🌟 Why It’s Great for Biking:

A nature-lover’s dream—ride through mangrove forests, coastal roads, and fresh sea air.
Few cars, minimal pollution, and long, uninterrupted cycling roads.
Perfect for weekend cycling trips and group rides.

Best Time to Ride: Start early morning to avoid the midday sun.

2.3 Bình Quới – Thanh Đa Peninsula (Bình Thạnh District)

📍 Location: Bình Quới Tourist Village🚲 Distance: 10 km🌟 Why It’s Great for Biking:

A peaceful, green countryside escape within Saigon.
Small village roads, beautiful rice fields, and riverside views.
Feels like you’re in the Mekong Delta without leaving the city.

Best Time to Ride: Early morning to enjoy the peaceful rural vibes.

3. Biking Trails in Parks & Green Spaces 🌳🚴

These places offer safe, relaxing bike trails away from traffic, perfect for families and casual riders.

3.1 Tao Đàn Park (District 1)

📍 Location: Trương Định Street, District 1🚲 Distance: 2 km (loop)🌟 Why It’s Great for Biking:

Shaded paths, peaceful atmosphere, and fresh air.
Ideal for kids, beginners, and slow biking.
Close to key attractions like the War Remnants Museum.

3.2 Crescent Lake & Phú Mỹ Hưng (District 7)

📍 Location: Hồ Bán Nguyệt, District 7🚲 Distance: 5 km🌟 Why It’s Great for Biking:

One of the cleanest and most modern areas to cycle in Saigon.
Beautiful lakeside views, luxury neighborhoods, and wide sidewalks.
Safe cycling zone with minimal car traffic.

Best Time to Ride: Evenings when the weather is cooler.

4. Long-Distance Cycling Routes 🚴‍♂️🏞

For those looking for a challenge, these routes offer long, open roads for endurance cycling.

4.1 Saigon to Tây Ninh Route

📍 Distance: 100 km🌟 Why It’s Great for Biking:

A scenic countryside ride with small villages and open roads.
Leads to Cao Đài Temple, a unique religious site.
Perfect for serious cyclists and long-distance riders.

4.2 Saigon to Vũng Tàu Coastal Route

📍 Distance: 90 km🌟 Why It’s Great for Biking:

Ends at Vietnam’s famous beach town, Vũng Tàu.
Offers breathtaking coastal views and challenging climbs.
Can be combined with a ferry ride for a unique cycling adventure.

Conclusion 🏁🚲

Cycling in Ho Chi Minh City is an exciting way to explore the city’s hidden gems, historical sites, and natural beauty. Whether you're a commuter, fitness rider, or weekend explorer, there’s a perfect route for you.

🌟 Tips for Biking in Saigon:✅ Wear a helmet and protective gear.✅ Avoid rush hour traffic (7-9 AM & 5-7 PM).✅ Bring water, lights, and a repair kit for long rides.✅ Use Google Maps bike mode for real-time navigation.

🚴‍♂️ Which biking route do you want to try first? Let me know if you need more details! 😊