Beyond the vibrant streets of Saigon’s inner city lies a diverse tapestry of ever-changing landscapes. From lush green spaces and winding rivers to historical landmarks and modern architectural marvels, this city offers an intriguing blend of history, culture, and contemporary life that will leave you enthralled.
Saigon’s traffic culture
Saigon, a name that brings the locals back to lovely memories of the former Ho Chi Minh City. The city vibrates with freewheeling energy, lively colors, and the unique sound of its busy traffic. But remember, the essential part of fully exploring Saigon is embracing the chaos—without it, the city is simply incomplete; it’s the city’s heartbeat. In the middle of Saigon’s dynamic cityspace, there’s a constant flow of vehicles dominated by a sea of motorbikes weaving through cars, buses, and pedestrians. Just like the city’s pace, the traffic moves fast and thick, making it challenging for visitors to predict and keep up with the flow.
However, Saigon is more than its gridlock; as long as you immerse yourself in the city, there’s always a captivating gateway to start your adventure, with varied road conditions ranging from wide boulevards to narrow alleys giving diverse cycling terrains.
Traffic rules you should know
Much like the city itself, driving or riding in Saigon is always an adventure, never boring. But for a safer and smoother biking experience, you need to understand local traffic norms. While official rules exist, actual practices often differ. Here are some key points to remember:
Start with the hierarchy of vehicles
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- Tractor trailers, buses, cement trucks, garbage trucks
- Delivery trucks whose drivers have no fear
- Cars (large to small)
- Motorbikes carrying merchandise
- Motorbikes with passengers
- Electric bikes
- Bicycles
- Pedestrians
Note: Be cautious of motorbikes, which dominate the roads, and always yield to larger vehicles like buses and trucks. Also, ensure to adhere to traffic lights and signs.
And here are some tips
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- Riding side: Cyclists should always ride on the right side of the road and follow the flow of traffic, avoiding sidewalks unless it’s explicitly permitted.
- One-way streets: These are common in the city center. Pay attention to signage and follow the flow.
- Hand signals: Saigon’s streets are busy, so use hand signals when turning or stopping to communicate your intentions to other road users (you can say “hello” so others know you’re coming).
- Honking: Frequent honking is normal and usually means “I’m here” rather than an expression of anger.
- Helmets: Legally required for motorbike riders, but not enforced for cyclists. However, wearing one is highly recommended for your safety.
- Peak time: Avoid cycling during peak hours (usually from 4PM to 6PM) when the streets are most congested.
- Night rides: When riding at night, make sure to use a front light and rear reflector to improve visibility.
Remember, the unwritten rule in Saigon traffic is to go with the flow. Be predictable in your movements and avoid sudden changes in direction.
Best routes and some hidden places for cyclists
Hoang Sa – Truong Sa
As a local, these streets are at the top of my go-to list when cycling in the city center. Hoang Sa and Truong Sa are a scenic and peaceful pair of streets running along the Nhieu Loc canal. They stand out from most roads in Saigon as the traffic volume is relatively low and the greenery trees on the side will join you in your journey. Sounds appealing, doesn’t it?
That’s not all, lovers of Vietnamese coffee will be in their element here, with plenty of coffee shops lining the path to your right. Imagine waking up early in the morning, taking a ride in the breezy, cool-air atmosphere, then finding a cozy spot in your favorite café, with a warm cup of rich, fragrant coffee in hand while watching the sun gently ascends.
Vo Van Kiet Avenue
Want to try a more thrilling journey? Cycling through Vo Van Kiet Avenue is something you can not miss if you wish to explore the city’s pace. Differ from the peaceful and quiet of Hoang Sa – Truong Sa road, Vo Van Kiet Avenue is more city-like and spacious. Its wide lanes and urban energy offer cyclists an exciting route filled with bustling streets, modern infrastructure, and catch sight of the city’s vibrant daily life.
Thao Dien
If you are new to cycling and planning for a short, relaxing journey, Thao Dien is definitely a suitable destination to start your trip. It lies in District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, with wide streets, lush trees aside, fresh air and manageable traffic facilitates this place as an ideal spot for beginners. The calm environment, combined with picturesque views and a leisurely pace, ensures a pleasant and stress-free cycling experience. Thao Dien is a perfect introduction to cycling, allowing you to enjoy the ride while building confidence on two wheels.
Thanh Da – Binh Quoi (Saigon’s green oasis)
Thanh Da – Binh Quoi is a peaceful, semi-rural area located in the Binh Thanh District of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Situated on a peninsula formed by the Saigon River, it’s surrounded by water, making it a refreshing, island-like atmosphere. One of the area’s highlights is the Binh Quoi Tourist Village, a charming resort-like complex that replicates traditional Vietnamese rural life, with thatched-roof cottages, lotus ponds, coconut trees and wooden bridges. Visitors can enjoy local food, boat rides, and folk performances.
Cycling enthusiasts will find Thanh Da – Binh Quoi ideal, with its flat terrain, minimal traffic, and scenic views. The quiet, narrow roads wind through peaceful local neighborhoods, farms, and riverside paths, creating a perfect route for cyclists looking to explore at their own pace. Despite development plans, the area has retained much of its untouched charm, offering a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s countryside.
Overall, Thanh Da – Binh Quoi is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat within easy reach of Ho Chi Minh City, giving you a quiet contrast to the bustling urban life of the city. But this place is quite hidden and unknown to many, so join us! We’ll take you everywhere you want to go, from the most popular cities to hidden islands.
The Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive network of underground tunnels located in the Cu Chi District, about 40 kilometers northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It’s a popular spot for weekend getaways and for those seeking to experience Vietnam’s countryside without traveling too far from the city. On your way to this place, you’ll uncover the hidden remnants of the Vietnam War—an intricate network of underground tunnels that once stretched over 121 kilometers. Cycling to Cu Chi allows you to explore local culture, with stops along the way to interact with friendly locals and take in the sights of rustic villages. Upon reaching the tunnels, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about their remarkable history and even venture inside some of the preserved sections. It’s the perfect mix of history, nature, and adventure, making it a must-visit for any cycling traveler.
Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta located west of Saigon, known as the “Nine Dragon River Delta” as it’s formed by nine rivers, is also often considered Vietnam’s “rice bowl” by producing more than a third of the country’s annual food crop from just ten percent of its total land area. You will find the landscape here is diverse, with endless paddy fields and in the south and sublime hills in the north and west. Cycling activity in the Mekong Delta will give you a slower and more fulfilling experience. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage by visiting some small shops to see traditional woven mats and cocoa plantations. The journey cannot be concluded if you don’t discover the region’s largest wholesale fresh produce market, where the vibrant atmosphere and variety of goods truly showcase the delta’s agricultural richness.
These tours, designed by Cào Cào Adventures, are perfect for those looking for a short ride of about 20-30 kilometers within a day. It’s ideal for anyone wanting to experience Vietnam’s countryside and hidden islands without venturing too far from the city.
Or whether you’re new to the city or simply looking for a cycling companion, try out Cào Cào Adventures’ Ho Chi Minh City Cycling Tours. Our tour guides, who are passionate cyclists themselves, are willing to share stories about everything you’ll see along the way!