Discover the diverse charm of Northern Vietnam through motorcycle tours from Hanoi to Halong, a route filled with dramatic mountains, peaceful countryside, and world-famous seascapes. This captivating journey takes you from the vibrant rhythm of the capital to winding rural backroads and breathtaking coastal vistas, offering a rich tapestry of landscapes and culture.
1. Overview of Halong
Halong, Vietnam is a city in Quang Ninh Province, located in the northeastern region of the country, renowned for its majestic and diverse natural landscapes. The most famous attraction is Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO-recognized World Natural Heritage site and one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The bay is home to over 1,600 islands of various sizes, mainly limestone and shale formations, creating picturesque and breathtaking scenery.
Notable spots on the bay include Sung Sot Cave, Dau Go Cave, Thien Cung Cave, Ti Top Island, Luon Cave, and the fishing village of Cua Van, each offering unique and unforgettable experiences. In addition, Ha Long features vibrant entertainment and recreational areas such as Bai Chay, Tuan Chau Island, and the Sun World Ha Long Complex, catering to the sightseeing, leisure, and relaxation needs of all visitors.
2. Scenic routes for a motorcycle trip from Hanoi to Halong
For those seeking adventure and breathtaking scenery in Northern Vietnam, motorcycle tours from Hanoi to Halong offer an unforgettable way to explore the region. From winding mountain passes to coastal roads, these tours allow riders to experience diverse landscapes, vibrant local culture, and hidden gems along the way.
Whether you’re looking for a short, scenic ride or an epic multi-day journey, the following routes are perfect for planning your next motorcycle tour from Hanoi to Halong.
Hanoi - Dong Trieu - Uong Bi - Halong (National Highway 18)
- Distance: ~140 km
- Highlights:
Landscapes combining plains, mountains, and sea
Stop at Yen Tu – a famous Buddhist center
Majestic mountain views near Quang Ninh
- Features: Main route, easy to ride, many rest stops, suitable for a light motorcycle trip.
Hanoi - Soc Son - Dong Trieu - Halong (Via National Highways 5 & 18)
- Distance: ~150 km
- Highlights:
Northern countryside and industrial areas along the way
- Stop at Soc Son or Dong Trieu to try local specialties
- Features: Slightly longer route but not too steep, good for a full-day trip with short breaks.
Hanoi - Bac Ninh - Quang Yen - Halong (Via National Highway 18)
- Distance: ~140 km
- Highlights:
Experience traditional crafts in Bac Ninh, especially pottery and silk
Scenic rivers and villages along the route
- Features: Short route, easy to ride, diverse natural and cultural scenery.
Hanoi - Thai Nguyen - Bac Giang - Halong (Mountain & Highlands Loop)
- Distance: ~200 km
- Highlights:
Mountain passes, valleys, and green landscapes
Less-traveled roads, pristine scenery
- Features: Ideal for adventurous riders seeking challenging roads and untouched landscapes.
Hanoi - Vinh Phuc - Ba Vi - Dong Trieu - Halong (Mountains & Lakes Route)
- Distance: ~180 km
- Highlights:
Ba Vi mountain and lakes, fishing villages along the way
Quiet route with many beautiful photo spots
- Features: Long route, suitable for a 2-day motorcycle trip with homestay stops.
Hanoi - Vu Linh - Sapa - Bac Ha - Xin Man - Ha Giang - Dong Van - Meo Vac - Bao Lac - Ba Be - Ban Gioc - Bac Son - Ha Long Bay
- Distance: ~1,200 km (approximate, depending on exact route)
- Time: 10 – 12 days
The lush green terraced fields along the journey.
- Highlights:
Explore the stunning landscapes of Northwest Vietnam, including terraced rice fields, winding mountain passes, and remote highland villages.
Visit cultural hotspots such as Sapa, Bac Ha, and Ha Giang, experiencing the traditions of ethnic minorities like H’Mong, Dao, Tay, and Giay.
Ride through scenic passes such as O Quy Ho, Ma Pi Leng, and enjoy panoramic views of the Nho Que River.
Discover natural wonders including Ba Be Lake, Ban Gioc Waterfall, and the limestone landscapes of Dong Van Karst Plateau - one of the UNESCO-recognized Global Geoparks.
This is a long-distance motorcycle route, ideal for riders seeking an epic adventure, and requires 10–12 days to fully experience the journey.
3. Best time for a motorcycle trip from Hanoi to Halong
The ideal time for motorcycle tours from Hanoi to Halong, Vietnam is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild, dry, and perfect for long rides.
Spring (March to May): Pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and blooming flowers create ideal conditions to enjoy the stunning landscapes along the mountains and coastal roads leading to Halong, Vietnam.
Autumn (September to November): Cool weather, low humidity, and beautiful scenery along the route make it an excellent time for motorcycle trips.
Note: Winter (December to February) is cooler and still suitable for riding, but some mountain passes may experience fog or light rain, which can reduce visibility.
4. Exploring Halong with Frontier Travel Vietnam
At Frontier Travel Vietnam, we offer a 12-day motorcycle tour to Halong, Vietnam, designed for riders seeking an epic adventure through Northern Vietnam. This tour takes you along scenic routes, from Hanoi through mountains, valleys, and cultural villages, all the way to the stunning landscapes of Halong, Vietnam.
12 days Northern adventure with Vietnam motorbike tours from Hanoi to Ha Long.
- Route: Hanoi - Vu Linh - Sapa - Bac Ha - Xin Man - Ha Giang - Dong Van - Meo Vac - Bao Lac - Ba Be - Ban Gioc - Bac Son - Ha Long Bay - Hanoi
- Duration: 12 days
- Destination: Hanoi, Vu Linh, Sapa, Hoang Su Phi, Ha Giang Loop, Ba Be National Park, Ban Gioc Waterfall, Halong Bay
Trip highlights:
Ride along the Red River and Thac Ba Lake
Experience a homestay with the Dao community in Vu Linh
Conquer some of Northern Vietnam’s most scenic routes: Sapa, Hoang Su Phi, Tay Con Linh
Visit Bac Ha market and meet the H’Mong and Dao communities
Explore the ancient village of Pho Bang and Vuong Palace
Tackle Ma Pi Leng Pass – one of Vietnam’s most spectacular roads
Admire the Nho Que River canyon
Off-road: river crossings, forest trails, rugged roads
Boat trip and swimming at Ba Be Lake
Discover the stunning Ban Gioc Waterfall
Enjoy the picturesque Bac Son rice terraces
Cruise Halong Bay, explore caves, and kayak
End the journey with a car transfer from Halong to Hanoi
>>> Check out the detailed 12-day itinerary of our Motorcycle tours from Hanoi to Halong here.
Whether you are an experienced rider seeking an epic adventure or a traveler eager to explore the natural and cultural wonders of Northern Vietnam, motorcycle tours from Hanoi to Halong promise an unforgettable journey. With carefully planned routes and authentic experiences, Frontier Travel Vietnam ensures that your motorcycle adventure in Vietnam is safe, seamless, and truly memorable. Embark on this journey to witness the beauty of Northern Vietnam on two wheels!
