Is Cycling in Ho Chi Minh City Safe?

Bicycles used to be the main mode of transport around Vietnam. However, as motorbikes and cars enter the locals’ houses, bikes are now used more for recreation and health benefits than traveling. These days, it’s easier to spot a foreigner than a local on a motorcycle in Ho Chi Minh City, and often, they look excited. But “Is cycling in Ho Chi Minh City safe?” To find out the answer, scroll down!

Is Cycling In Ho Chi Minh City Safe? – The Positives

1. Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its vibrancy and colorful culture inside small alleys and wet markets. Yet, it’s never easy to squeeze a cab inside these places. That’s why cycling is a good option to explore and get off the beaten path in Ho Chi Minh City. It allows you to see hidden gems like local shops, themed cafes, or entertaining recreation that you may miss out on while riding a motorbike.

2. Though motorbikes are a much more inviting option for observing up close the Bikerhood of the burgeoning metropolitan, obtaining and using a motorbike for a foreign tourist is not easy. Bicycles, on the other hand, do not require any license and are not complicated to rent, which means there is less hassle when you are out and about on the street.

3. Cycling brings excellent health benefits, so why not get it in your travel schedule? It is more enjoyable than sweating for hours in a gym since you get to go sightseeing simultaneously. Besides, you don’t have to worry about losing your form after eating lots of delicious Vietnamese dishes.

4. Last but not least, cycling is an economical and environmentally friendly way of traveling, especially for budget travelers and backpackers. A bike’s rental fee is often half that of a motorbike, not to mention the constantly rising cost of fuel or the possible cost of fixing a motorbike.

Is Cycling In Ho Chi Minh City Safe? – The Negatives

1. Is cycling in Ho Chi Minh City enjoyable? Yes. Is cycling in Ho Chi Minh City convenient? No. Cycling gets you into the alleyway, but most famous attractions lie on main streets, so you can use other types of transport just fine. Moreover, cycling is a time-consuming way of traveling as the attractions are scattered everywhere around the city.
2. Getting around Ho Chi Minh City is a feat for all foreigners because our motor-jammed traffic is notorious for being crowded and confusing. Cars are coming in everywhere, and they probably won’t wait for you. Moreover, you can get lost easily, specifically in the labyrinth-like web of alleys. With that traffic, traveling with a motorbike already takes a mind of steel and a steady hand, but cycling on the main streets takes ten times what you need to ride a motorbike.

3. If you’re into sightseeing on the streets and blend into the local culture, there’s a better option: Motorcycle Tour in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s more exciting, relaxing and you’ll get helpful tour guides to give you a rundown on the culture and history. If you’re still interested in cycling, we suggest cycling in the Mekong Delta area, where the traffic is less dangerous and the view is spectacular.

4. It’s never good to stay out too long in the sun, and it’s worse in a tropical country like Vietnam because you can get sunburned easily. Moreover, Ho Chi Minh City’s air is quite polluted with traffic fumes and smoke at all hours.

Best Cycling Routes In Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam has tons of beautiful cycling routes, some of which are in Ho Chi Minh City. Here, we’ll show you the best of the best:

City Central – District 1

Around the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit cluster: the Independence Palace, the Central Post Office, Nguyen Van Binh Book Street, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, and Saigon Opera House.

District 2

District 2 is a newly developed area of the city with many fascinating stops, such as The Factory Contemporary Arts Center, Thu Thiem Park, one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most beautiful bridges – Thu Thiem Bridge—and an abundance of chic shops and restaurants. The Thao Dien and Xuan Thuy areas are also suitable for cycling, thanks to their laid-back vibe.

Ho Chi Minh City Outskirts 

If you’re adventurous and into dirt road cycling routes, then the city’s outskirts, like Can Gio and Cu Chi, are for you. Can Gio offers a Southwestern Vietnam feel, while Cu Chi is famous for the Cu Chi tunnels—the Vietnamese army headquarters during the Vietnam War. However, exploring Cu Chi with a tour guide is better since you’ll hear about the site’s history.

Our Top Tips for Cycling in Ho Chi Minh City

• Avoid rush hours (usually between 7 and 9 AM and 5 and 7 PM), as there will be traffic jams.
• Wear sun-protective clothing.
• You may want to record pictures and videos of your cycling routes, but you should never use your phone on the streets. Snatch thieves will lurk, waiting to take your chances.

Is Cycling In Ho Chi Minh City Safe? – The Conclusion

“Is cycling in Ho Chi Minh City safe?” Our answer is no. Though there are certain benefits to cycling, it’s not recommended to risk the negatives, especially if you’re in the city for the first time. Instead, try booking a Motorcycle Tour for safety and quality.