The most popular and scenic motorcycle route from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to Hanoi is known as the “HCMC-Hanoi Highway” or “QL1A”. This route takes you through the central highlands, passing through picturesque towns, national parks, and stunning natural landscapes. Here’s a breakdown of the route:
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City to Dalat (200 km / 124 miles)
- Start early from Saigon and head northwest on Highway QL1A
- Pass through the scenic towns of Dinh Quan and Phu My Hung
- Arrive in Dalat, a popular hill station known for its cool climate, flower gardens, and picturesque lakes
Day 2: Dalat to Nha Trang (140 km / 87 miles)
- Leave Dalat and continue northwest on QL1A
- Pass through the scenic valleys and mountains of Lam Dong province
- Arrive in Nha Trang, a coastal city famous for its beautiful beaches, islands, and scuba diving
Day 3: Nha Trang to Hue (350 km / 217 miles)
- Head north from Nha Trang on QL1A, passing through the coastal provinces of Khanh Hoa and Quang Nam
- Stop at the ancient Cham Towers in My Son and explore the historic city of Hoi An
- Continue to Hue, a city with a rich history and stunning imperial architecture
Day 4: Hue to Hanoi (470 km / 292 miles)
- Leave Hue and head north on QL1A, passing through the Truong Son Mountains and the scenic national parks of Bach Ma and Phong Nha-Ke Bang
- Stop at the ancient capital of Thanh Hoa and explore its historic sites
- Arrive in Hanoi, the charming capital city of Vietnam, known for its Old Quarter, temples, and bustling streets
This route offers a mix of urban exploration, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. However, it’s not the only option, and you can always take detours or choose alternative routes to explore more of Vietnam’s hidden gems. Make sure to plan your trip according to the weather, as the central highlands can be quite rainy during the monsoon season
(June-October). Happy riding!