ALL DAY 6 HOURS: Ride to the Lost Kingdom Cycling Tour

Discover Hanoi’s Hidden Heritage on a Cycling Tour to Co Loa Citadel

This cycling journey promises a wonderful mix of culture, countryside, and history, taking you beyond Hanoi’s busy streets into the peaceful rice paddies and ancient ruins. While we haven’t personally experienced it, reviews highlight its intimate group size, engaging guides, and authentic feel.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see Hanoi from a different perspective—pedaling through quiet villages, crossing iconic bridges, and exploring a legendary site. The three standout points are its rich historical content, scenic rural scenery, and the opportunity for a truly local experience.

One potential consideration is the 7-hour duration, which might be quite demanding for travelers with limited stamina. Still, for those who enjoy active days with a cultural twist, this trip hits the mark.

Ideal for cycling enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone wanting to escape city crowds, this tour offers a practical and immersive way to deepen your understanding of Vietnam’s past while enjoying scenic views along the way.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines cycling, history, and rural scenery in one day.
• Intimate Group: Max of 10 travelers ensures a personalized experience.
• Historical Insight: Learn about Vietnam’s ancient capital, King An Dng Vng, and the stories behind C Loa Citadel.
• Scenic Routes: Cross the Red River via the Long Bien Bridge and ride past rice paddies and local villages.
• Value for Money: At $89, the tour includes bike rental, entry fees, and a guided journey.
• Physical Activity Level: Moderate, suitable for those comfortable on a bike for several hours.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point in Hanoi’s Old Quarter

The tour kicks off at Ca Bop Egg Coffee & Art Corner, a cozy spot that sets the tone for the day. Here, you’ll get your bike properly adjusted, receive a safety briefing, and get an overview of the day’s adventure.

We loved the energy here; it’s a friendly start in a vibrant neighborhood. Expect to weave through the lively streets filled with local markets and street vendors, giving you a lively introduction to Hanoi’s bustling atmosphere. This warm-up ride lasts about 10 minutes, perfect for loosening up before heading into the countryside.

Crossing Long Bien Bridge

Next, the highlight is crossing the Long Bien Bridge, an iconic feat of French colonial engineering, bombed during the Vietnam War but still standing strong.

The views of the Red River and surrounding farmland are stunning, especially on a clear day. The bridge itself is a fascinating piece of history—reviewers mention it as a symbol of resilience and a perfect photo backdrop. Expect about 10 minutes here, with some time to appreciate the sweeping vistas and perhaps snap a few pictures.

The Heart of the Tour: Co Loa Citadel

The core of the experience is the visit to Co Loa Citadel, once Vietnam’s ancient capital under King An Dng Vng. This spiral-shaped fortress is not just an archaeological site but a place bursting with legends, myths, and stories of battles.

Guides tend to be knowledgeable, sharing tales of over 2,000 years of Vietnamese history. Reviewers mention that the “stories of King An Dng Vng and the battles that shaped Vietnam” help bring the site alive. Expect a 3-hour exploration, where you’ll wander through temples, ramparts, and the legendary spiral moat.

The site offers a sense of stepping back in time, and the combination of ancient ruins with the surrounding lush countryside gives a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere.

End of Tour and Return

The tour conveniently wraps up back at the starting point, giving you time to reflect on your day’s discoveries. Some travelers choose to explore more of Hanoi afterward or relax with a local coffee.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour starts at the Ca Bop Egg Coffee & Art Corner in the Kim Mã area, a lively neighborhood easily accessible from central Hanoi. The activity lasts roughly 7 hours, including travel, stops, and exploration, making it a full but manageable day out.

With a maximum group size of 10, you’ll get personalized attention, and the small group ensures a more intimate experience. The price of $89 per person covers bike rental, entry tickets, and guided commentary, making it quite good value considering the included attractions and the expert guidance.

The tour is suitable for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level—cycling for approximately 35km in a day, with some uphill sections at Co Loa, which might challenge those less accustomed to biking. Reviewers note the ride is mostly flat, with some gentle inclines.

What to Bring and Wear

Comfortable, breathable clothes suitable for cycling are recommended. Don’t forget sun protection, a hat, and water, especially on warm days. Sturdy shoes and sunglasses will make the ride more comfortable.

Accessibility and Flexibility

While the tour is designed for active participants, it’s not suited for those with mobility issues. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This experience balances physical activity with cultural enrichment, making it perfect for those wanting to see Vietnam’s countryside and history without the hassle of organizing transport and entry tickets themselves. The guided commentary adds depth to the visit, making it more than just a bike ride.

You’ll love the way the tour combines scenic sightseeing, historical storytelling, and local village life—offering an authentic glimpse into Vietnam beyond Hanoi’s tourist spots.

Though it requires some stamina, the rewarding scenery and fascinating historical insights make the effort worthwhile. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy active days, cultural exploration, and small-group interactions.

FAQs about the Ride to the Lost Kingdom Cycling Tour

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It’s designed for those with a moderate fitness level. Expect to cycle approximately 35 km over 7 hours, with some gentle inclines at Co Loa.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket includes bike rental, safety gear, admission to Co Loa Citadel, and the guided tour.

How long does each stop last?
You’ll spend about 10 minutes crossing Long Bien Bridge and around 3 hours exploring Co Loa Citadel, including walking and sightseeing time.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Ca Bop Egg Coffee & Art Corner in Hanoi and finishes back at the same location.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s best suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level comfortable on a bike for several hours. Very young children or those with mobility issues may find it challenging.

Are there any physical challenges involved?
Some gentle uphill riding at Co Loa might require a bit of effort, but most of the route is flat. Reviewers note the ride isn’t overly strenuous.

What should I wear?
Light, comfortable biking clothes, sun protection, and sturdy shoes are recommended. Bring water and sunglasses for comfort.

Is this tour available in different languages?
The provided info indicates a guided experience, but specific language options aren’t mentioned. Confirm with the provider if language support is needed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice means a full refund isn’t available.

Final Thoughts

This cycling tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines physical activity, scenic beauty, and cultural discovery. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see more of Hanoi’s countryside and learn about Vietnam’s legendary past in an engaging way.

While it’s a bit of a commitment in terms of time and effort, the payoff is a richer understanding of Vietnam’s history paired with stunning rural views. The small group size and expert guide help create an intimate, memorable day that’s both fun and educational.

Overall, it’s a fantastic option for active travelers, history enthusiasts, and those eager to explore Vietnam beyond its urban charm. If you’re prepared for a day on the bike, this tour could be a highlight of your Hanoi visit—offering a genuine taste of local life and ancient legends.