West Lake Scenic Route: Ba Dinh + Tay Ho Districts | Free Self-Guided Itinerary

Ride along Hanoi’s most scenic and tranquil route with this 21 km journey around the iconic West Lake. Known for its sweeping views and peaceful atmosphere, this itinerary offers a serene escape from the city’s bustling streets.

Explore a variety of landmarks and hidden gems, from ancient pagodas and historic temples to vibrant local markets and charming lakeside cafes. Along the way, immerse yourself in Hanoi’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, with stops that cater to nature lovers, foodies, and culture enthusiasts alike.

Key Highlights

  • Ride Along Hanoi’s Iconic West Lake: Enjoy breathtaking views of one of the largest inner-city lakes in the world, surrounded by scenic roads and lush greenery.
  • Visit Trấn Quốc Pagoda: Stop at Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temple, located on a picturesque island in the lake.
  • Explore Tay Ho District’s Expat Vibe: Discover trendy cafes like Ru Mcafé, Maison de Tet Decor, and Oriberry Coffee, as well as vibrant dining spots like BAO WOW and Nướng 86 Tomyum.
  • Uncover Cultural Treasures: Marvel at historic sites such as Van Niên Pagoda, Tảo Sách Pagoda, and Phủ Tây Hồ, all of which offer unique insights into Hanoi’s spiritual heritage.
  • Taste Hanoi’s Signature Dish: Take a detour to Trúc Bạch Lake and try Phở Cuốn, the delicious Vietnamese spring rolls that originated here.
  • Relax at Lakeside Stops: Pause at tranquil locations such as Trích Sài Park, Lotus Lake, or one of the many graffiti-covered walls and lakeside viewpoints for a peaceful break.
  • Take the Banana Island Detour: Follow the green route on the map and enjoy some adventures on this mostly off-road true off the beaten path detour. Explore the Banana Island of Hanoi along the Red River and experience village like paths between many gardens and fields along the route as well as some interesting views over the river and floating houses. This detour will get you to the world you didn’t think would be possible to see in Hanoi.

Practical Details

  • Duration: 4-6 hours
  • Distance: 21 km (+9,6 km with Banana Island Detour)
  • Difficulty: Easy (moderate for Banana Island Detour)
  • Best Time to Start: Early morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler weather and softer light for scenic views.

Why Choose This Itinerary?

For those seeking a peaceful and picturesque ride in Hanoi, the West Lake Scenic Route offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. From serene lakeside stops and lush parks to bustling local markets and trendy cafes, this route caters to a wide range of interests.

Whether you want to capture stunning views, savor Hanoi’s diverse culinary offerings, or explore cultural landmarks, this itinerary provides an unforgettable experience that showcases the city’s vibrant character and natural beauty.

How it Works

1. After checkout, you’ll receive a custom Google Maps link via email within 2 hours during our opening hours.
2. The map includes a fully marked route with all the cultural landmarks, local gems, street food spots, cafes, and even repair shops along the way for a seamless experience.
3. Simply click on any point of interest to access details and use Google Maps’ Navigate function for stress-free, flexible guidance.
4. Enjoy your exploration with all the truly local hidden gems!

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