Cycling tours have become a thrilling way for travelers to explore new landscapes, immerse in local cultures, and stay active. Asia offers some of the best cycling routes, each destination filled with its own unique charm, history, and natural beauty. Needless to say, the rich and diverse culinary traditions of each Asian country are the proverbial cherry on top that make a cycling holiday all the more exciting.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable Asia cycling tour, Vietnam,Thailand and Taiwan are three destinations that should be on the top of your bucket list. Not only do they offer the best of Asia when it comes to sights, sounds, experiences and hospitality, but they’re also a food lover’s paradise.

Here’s why they should be on your bucket list.

1. Vietnam: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

Why It’s Great for Cycling

Vietnam’s landscapes are a perfect mix of scenic coastal roads, rugged mountain paths, and tranquil rural villages. The route from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay offers a diverse and picturesque cycling experience, allowing you to pass through traditional Vietnamese villages, lush rice fields, and coastal views.

Best Things to See

• Ha Long Bay: Famous for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands, Ha Long Bay is a must-visit. You can even take a boat ride around the bay after your cycling journey.
• Red River Delta: Explore this fertile region, known for its rich culture and historical sites, including ancient temples and pagodas.
• Ninh Binh: Often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh features stunning limestone karsts and serene waterways, accessible on smaller bike trails.

Best Hotels to Stay

• Hotel de l’Opera Hanoi: A luxurious hotel located in Hanoi, it offers a comfortable stay close to cultural landmarks. The ideal spot to rest before starting your cycling tour.
• Novotel Ha Long Bay: After your journey to the bay, relax at this stylish hotel with stunning views of the iconic limestone cliffs.

Best Foods to Try

Be sure to try pho, a flavorful noodle soup typically made with beef or chicken, and banh mi, a Vietnamese baguette sandwich filled with meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. 

Savor bun cha, grilled pork served with rice noodles and fresh herbs, and goi cuon (spring rolls), packed with shrimp, pork, and vegetables in rice paper. 

Don’t miss cao lau in Hoi An, a noodle dish featuring slices of pork, greens, and crispy rice crackers. For dessert, enjoy che, a sweet soup made from beans, tapioca, and coconut milk

Best Time to Visit

Plan your cycling trip to Vietnam between October and April, when the weather is cooler and less humid. This is also the best season to avoid the rainy season and high temperatures.

2. Thailand: Chiang Mai and Northern Hills

Why It’s Great for Cycling

Thailand is known for its friendly locals, rich culture, and stunning landscapes. Northern Thailand, particularly around Chiang Mai, offers serene roads, lush mountains, and a cooler climate than the southern regions, making it ideal for cycling enthusiasts. 

Best Things to See

• Doi Suthep: A challenging ride that rewards you with a visit to the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, an iconic temple with a panoramic view of Chiang Mai.
• Mae Hong Son Loop: A 600-kilometer loop through jungle-covered mountains, remote villages, and serene rice terraces. This multi-day cycling route is perfect for adventurers.
• Chiang Mai Old City: After your cycling excursions, explore Chiang Mai’s Old City with its ancient temples, local markets, and cozy cafes.

Best Hotels to Stay

• 137 Pillars House: A luxury boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai. It blends modern comfort with traditional Thai charm, offering cyclists a relaxing stay after a long ride.
• Rimping Village Hotel: A quieter, eco-friendly option just outside the bustling center, perfect for those who prefer a peaceful atmosphere.

Best Foods to Try

Don’t miss pad thai, a stir-fried noodle dish with shrimp, tofu, peanuts, and lime. 

Savor the rich, aromatic flavors of tom yum goong, a spicy shrimp soup with lemongrass and lime leaves, and som tam, a tangy green papaya salad with chili, lime, and peanuts. 

Try massaman curry, a mild, flavorful curry with potatoes and peanuts, and khao soi, a northern Thai dish of coconut curry soup with crispy and soft noodles. 

For dessert, enjoy mango sticky rice, sweetened with coconut milk and fresh mango slices.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for a Thailand bike tour is between November and February. This period is marked by cooler temperatures and dry weather, providing ideal cycling conditions. Riders can expect a combination of winding mountain roads passing through a green countryside, and flat rice paddies in the peak paddy season that offers a diverse cycling experience.

3. Taiwan: Eastern Coast and Taroko Gorge

Why It’s Great for Cycling

Taiwan is quickly becoming a cyclist’s paradise, with its well-maintained roads, scenic coastal routes, and spectacular mountain trails. The east coast, in particular, offers breathtaking ocean views, while Taroko Gorge presents a dramatic landscape of marble cliffs and winding rivers. Taiwan is also known for its cycling-friendly infrastructure, making it a stress-free experience for visitors.

Best Things to See

• Taroko Gorge: A stunning natural marble canyon, this UNESCO-recognized site is a cycling highlight with challenging climbs and rewarding views.
• Qingshui Cliffs: Ride along the coastal highway, where you can see the dramatic cliffs plunging into the Pacific Ocean.
• Hualien: A charming city where many cyclists start their journey, Hualien offers access to both the coast and the mountains.

Best Hotels to Stay

• Silks Place Taroko: A luxurious mountain resort inside Taroko National Park. The perfect place to unwind and enjoy the serene surroundings after a day of cycling.
• Just Sleep Hualien Zhongzheng: A trendy, budget-friendly hotel located in Hualien, great for cyclists looking for comfort without breaking the bank.

Best Foods to Try

Try beef noodle soup, a hearty dish with tender beef, rich broth, and chewy noodles. 

Savor xiao long bao, delicate soup dumplings filled with pork and broth, and lu rou fan, a comforting bowl of braised pork over rice.

Don’t miss oyster omelette, made with fresh oysters and starchy batter, and gua bao, a steamed bun filled with braised pork belly, pickles, and peanuts. 

For a sweet treat, enjoy bubble tea, Taiwan’s iconic drink with chewy tapioca pearls, or pineapple cake, a buttery pastry filled with sweet pineapple jam.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to cycle through Taiwan is between October and April, particularly in the fall and spring, when the temperatures are mild, and the weather is generally dry. Avoid the typhoon season (July to September) for a safer, more enjoyable trip.

Final Thoughts

Cycling tours are a fantastic way to experience the diverse beauty of Asia. Whether you’re conquering the mountains of Northern Thailand, cruising along Vietnam’s coastal routes, or exploring Taiwan’s majestic landscapes, each of these destinations offers something unique. 

With rich culture, stunning views, and welcoming locals, Thailand, Vietnam, and Taiwan should be on every cyclist’s travel list. So grab your bike, start planning, and embark on the cycling adventure of a lifetime!