Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter with cyclo tours in Hoan Kiem Ward! Discover pricing, eco-friendly routes, and Legend Travel Group’s sustainable adventures. Book your cultural journey now!
Capture the serene beauty of Hanoi’s cultural gemHanoi’s Old Quarter in Hoan Kiem Ward, the vibrant core of Vietnam’s capital, welcomes over 18 million visitors annually, offering a maze of 36 historic guild streets and serene Hoan Kiem Lake. A cyclo tour, powered by a skilled driver pedaling a three-wheeled rickshaw, is the ideal way to explore this compact, bustling area, with one-hour rides costing $8–$15 (200,000–375,000 VND). These leisurely tours weave through narrow alleys, past ancient temples, and vibrant markets, providing an intimate glimpse into Hanoi’s 1,000-year-old Thang Long heritage at a relaxed pace perfect for photography and cultural immersion.
Introduced during French colonial times in the early 20th century, cyclos are a nostalgic symbol of Hanoi, now used primarily for tourism to preserve their cultural legacy. Eco-friendly by design, cyclos produce zero emissions, supporting Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative, set in a tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F). Legend Travel Group’s sustainable cyclo tours enhance your experience, blending eco-conscious travel with local insights. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with former Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration, simplifying navigation to the Old Quarter using ward-based maps.
Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly cyclo tours in Hanoi, tailored for travelers seeking authentic experiences. Our tours feature human-powered cyclos, led by English-speaking guides who share cultural stories, route tips, and green practices, ensuring a safe, enriching journey. Supporting local cyclo drivers and communities, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter responsibly!
Dive into the vibrant charm of Hanoi Travel (Source: Source: Internet)Cyclos, or “xich lo,” are three-wheeled, pedal-powered vehicles with cushioned front seats for one or two passengers, driven by a cyclist from behind. Once a common transport for Hanoians, they’re now a tourist favorite, navigating the Old Quarter’s narrow streets like Hàng Mành and Tạ Hiện with ease, where cars often struggle. A typical one-hour tour covers Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and Dong Xuan Market, offering stops for photos or street food ($0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND). Many drivers share local anecdotes, enhancing the experience, with some speaking basic English. Sustainable practices, like maintaining cyclos with recycled parts and supporting driver cooperatives, preserve this eco-friendly tradition, making cyclo tours a low-impact way to discover Hanoi’s vibrant culture.
These eco-friendly cyclo tours in Hoan Kiem Ward, priced at $8–$20, offer unique cultural adventures, all starting within 5–10 minutes of Hoan Kiem Lake:
Pedal through the 36 guild streets, best at 8:00 AM, for $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND), visiting Hàng Bạc (silversmiths), Tạ Hiện (beer corner), and Dong Xuan Market.
Cost: $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND)/cyclo (1–2 people); tips $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Hours: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Zero-emission transport; supports local driver cooperatives.
Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group for an English-speaking guide; stop for phở ($1–$2) on Hàng Mành.
Glide around Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple at sunrise (6:00 AM), for $6–$10 (150,000–250,000 VND), capturing serene views and morning tai chi.
Cost: $6–$10 (150,000–250,000 VND)/cyclo; tips $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Hours: 6:00–7:00 AM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Early tours reduce street congestion; human-powered cyclos.
Tip: Start at Lý Thái Tổ Park; bring a camera for lake reflections.
Explore colonial landmarks like Hanoi Opera House and St. Joseph’s Cathedral, best at 10:00 AM, for $12–$15 (300,000–375,000 VND), blending French and Vietnamese heritage.
Cost: $12–$15 (300,000–375,000 VND)/cyclo; tips $1–$2.
Hours: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Recycled cyclo parts; supports heritage preservation.
Tip: Book with Legend Travel Group for a customized route; pause for coffee at Cộng Cà Phê ($0.80–$1.50 or 20,000–37,500 VND).
Ride through the pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight), best at 8:00 PM, for $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND), visiting Hàng Đào’s night market and Tạ Hiện’s nightlife.
Cost: $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND)/cyclo; tips $1–$2.
Hours: 7:00–10:00 PM (weekends).
Eco-Friendly Note: Aligns with car-free pedestrian zone; supports local vendors.
Tip: Start at Đinh Tiên Hoàng; try bia hơi ($0.30 or 7,000 VND) on Tạ Hiện.
Journey beyond Hoan Kiem to Văn Miếu Ward’s Temple of Literature, best at 9:00 AM, for $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND), including Old Quarter and temple stops.
Cost: $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND)/cyclo; temple entry $3 (70,000 VND); tips $1–$2.
Hours: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Low-impact transport; supports cultural site maintenance.
Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group for a guide; stop at temple gift shop for calligraphy ($1–$5).
Start your Hanoi Travel with cultural vistas (Source: Source: Internet)Take cyclo tours from September to November for cool, dry weather (20–28°C or 68–82.4°F), ideal for comfortable rides and clear photos. The dry season (November–April) ensures smooth navigation, while the rainy season (May–October) may slow rides but offers dramatic street scenes (bring umbrellas). Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) have less traffic and fewer tourists (2,000–5,000 daily cyclo riders) than weekends (10,000–20,000), especially during the pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight) or Tet (January/February). Early mornings (6:00–9:00 AM) provide tranquility; evenings (7:00–9:00 PM) capture vibrant nightlife, especially on weekends.
Experience Hanoi Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Source: Internet)Cyclo tours typically begin in Hoan Kiem Ward’s Old Quarter, near Hoan Kiem Lake, accessible in 5–15 minutes from central Hanoi:
By Walking: 5–10 minutes within Hoan Kiem Ward (e.g., from Hàng Bạc to Lý Thái Tổ). Free, eco-friendly.
By Motorbike Taxi (Xe Ôm): 1–5 km rides (e.g., Ba Đình to Hoan Kiem), 5–10 minutes, $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 VND). Book via Grab/Xanh SM apps; helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).
By Electric Bus (VinBus): Routes 08, 09, 36 to Hoan Kiem Lake, 5–10 minutes, $0.30–$0.40 (7,000–10,000 VND). Departs every 10–20 minutes, 5:00 AM–9:00 PM. Use BusMap app.
By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): To Lý Thái Tổ or Hàng Đào, 5–10 minutes, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way; round-trip $4–$8. Use Xanh SM app.
By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND) round-trip for up to 4 people, ideal for groups.
By Air (to Hanoi): Noi Bai Airport (HAN), 25 km. Airport Bus No. 86 to Hoan Kiem Ward ($1.40 or 35,000 VND, 50–60 min), then walk or taxi ($2–$4); direct taxi/Grab ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND). Flights: Ho Chi Minh City ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND), Da Nang ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), Bangkok ($200–$600). Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with “Lý Thái Tổ, Hoan Kiem Ward” or “Hàng Đào, Hoan Kiem Ward”; locate via Hoan Kiem Lake or Ngoc Son Temple. Pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight) restricts vehicles.
Eco-Friendly Note: Walking, VinBus, or Xanh SM reduce emissions; cyclos are human-powered.
Safety: Watch for pickpockets on Tạ Hiện; secure valuables. Confirm cyclo fares upfront.
Photograph the lively allure of Hanoi’s guild streets (Source: Source: Internet)Pack these essentials for a sustainable cyclo experience:
Clothing: Light layers, comfortable shoes; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season; hat for sun protection (remove in temples).
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses.
Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), hand sanitizer ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM/BusMap apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).
Photography Gear: Camera or smartphone for street shots; extra batteries.
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for souvenirs; biodegradable wipes.
Extras: Sunglasses for open-air rides; cash for tips and snacks.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for cyclo fares ($8–$15), tips ($1–$2), or street food ($0.50–$2); secure valuables during rides.
Cyclo Tour Prices
45-Minute Tour (e.g., Hoan Kiem Lake): $6–$10 (150,000–250,000 VND)/cyclo (1–2 people).
1-Hour Tour (e.g., Old Quarter): $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND)/cyclo.
1.5-Hour Tour (e.g., French Quarter): $12–$15 (300,000–375,000 VND)/cyclo.
2-Hour Extended Tour (e.g., Temple of Literature): $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND)/cyclo.
Tips: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) per ride.
Guided Eco-Tour with Cyclo: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND)/person.
Transportation to Starting Points (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)
Walking: Free.
Xe Ôm: $1.60–$4 (40,000–100,000 VND) for 1–5 km.
VinBus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).
Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).
Private Car: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).
Airport Bus No. 86 + Taxi: $3.70–$6.40 (92,500–160,000 VND).
Parking (Bikes/Cars, if needed): $0.20–$1.20 (5,000–30,000 VND).
SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Additional Costs
Street Food (e.g., Phở, Bánh Mì): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Drinks (Coffee, Water): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).
Souvenirs (e.g., Silk, Calligraphy): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Attraction Fees (e.g., Temple of Literature): $3 (70,000 VND).
Total Daily Cyclo Tour Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $10–$20 (walking, 1-hour cyclo, street food).
Mid-range: $25–$40 (xe ôm, 1.5-hour cyclo, guided tour).
Luxury: $60–$100 (electric taxi, 2-hour cyclo, private car).
Tip: Budget for cyclo tour ($8–$15), transport ($0.80–$8), and food ($2–$5); carry cash for drivers (no cards accepted).
Capture the authentic charm of Hanoi’s culture (Source: Source: Internet)Timing: Start tours at 6:00–9:00 AM for quiet streets or 7:00–9:00 PM (weekends) for nightlife; September–November for dry weather. Weekdays avoid tourist crowds (2,000–5,000 vs. 10,000–20,000 on weekends).
Booking: Arrange via Legend Travel Group for reliable drivers and English-speaking guides (24–48 hours ahead); or negotiate with cyclo drivers near Hoan Kiem Lake or Lý Thái Tổ Park. Agree on fare and route upfront to avoid overcharging.
Sustainability: Choose cyclo tours for zero-emission travel; support drivers by tipping $1–$2. Bring reusable bottles to reduce plastic; buy local souvenirs ($1–$5) on Hàng Gai.
Navigation: Save “Lý Thái Tổ, Hoan Kiem Ward” or “Hàng Đào, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps; confirm destinations (e.g., “Ngoc Son Temple”) with drivers, as some may not speak fluent English.
Safety: Secure valuables in zipped bags; hold onto seats during bumpy rides. Ensure drivers navigate slowly in traffic; avoid tours during rush hours (7:30–9:00 AM, 5:00–7:00 PM).
Weather: Dry season for smooth rides; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5) and umbrellas. Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Greet drivers with “xin chào”; tip $1–$2 for good service. Respect temple etiquette (e.g., modest attire at Ngoc Son Temple); avoid loud conversations during rides.
Health: Carry bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); use hand sanitizer post-ride. Inform drivers if you need slower rides due to motion sensitivity.
Our sustainable cyclo tours showcase Hanoi’s Old Quarter and beyond:
Hanoi Cultural Cyclo Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo ride through Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Ngoc Son Temple at 8:00 AM, with street food lunch ($2–$5). Includes guide, transport.
Hanoi Night Cyclo Adventure ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Evening cyclo tour of night market, Tạ Hiện’s bia hơi, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.
Hanoi & Ninh Bình Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Cyclo tour, Temple of Literature, Ninh Bình’s Trang An, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
Cyclo tours in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Ward, offer an eco-friendly way to explore Vietnam’s cultural heart, with rides costing $8–$15 for 1–2 hours, enchanting over 18 million visitors yearly. From sunrise tours around Hoan Kiem Lake to night market adventures on Tạ Hiện, these human-powered rickshaws navigate the 36 guild streets, revealing Hanoi’s vibrant heritage. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours ensure a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience, supporting local drivers and communities. Whether weaving through Hàng Bạc or pausing at Dong Xuan Market, a cyclo tour promises an unforgettable Hanoi experience. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your cultural adventure today!
Ready to explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter by cyclo in Hoan Kiem Ward? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural journey!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Favorite experiences booked by travelers
