Hanoi Countryside Hideaway VESPA TOUR

Hanoi Countryside Hideaway Vespa Tour Review: Discover Vietnam’s Rustic Charm on a Vintage Scooter

Exploring Hanoi’s surroundings on a Vespa sounds like something straight out of a travel magazine, and this tour definitely lives up to that image. This 4.5-hour adventure offers a mix of scenic countryside, cultural insights, and authentic local encounters, all while riding a vintage scooter through rural Vietnam. The experience includes stops at iconic sites, like the Long Bien Bridge and Co Loa Citadel, alongside lesser-trodden villages that reveal a more genuine side of Hanoi’s rural life.

One thing we particularly appreciate about this tour is the chance to see the countryside from an unconventional perspective—side by side with local farmers and artisans. The relaxed pace allows ample time for photographs, conversations, and savoring Vietnam’s natural beauty. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour involves a fair amount of riding between stops, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on a scooter and eager for a more active, outdoor experience. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and scenic relaxation away from Hanoi’s bustling streets.

Key Points
– Authentic Rural Encounters: Meet local farmers and artisans, gaining insight into traditional Vietnamese life.
– Historical & Cultural Sites: Visit Long Bien Bridge, Co Loa Citadel, and the Buddha wooden carving village.
– Scenic Rides: Pass through rice paddies, vegetable fields, and quaint villages with peaceful natural surroundings.
– Delicious Food & Drinks: Enjoy an outdoor BBQ lunch with free-flow drinks, featuring local meats and seafood.
– Private & Intimate: Small group size (up to 10 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience.
– Value for Money: At $70, this tour offers a comprehensive half-day adventure combining transportation, meals, and guided insights.

An In-Depth Look at Hanoi Countryside Hideaway Vespa Tour

A Unique Way to Explore the Hanoi Countryside

If you’re craving a different perspective of Vietnam’s capital, this tour’s vintage Vespa ride offers a fun, authentic way to do so. Instead of traditional bus tours, you’re zooming along on scooters piloted by experienced local riders, giving you the freedom to enjoy the sights and sounds of the countryside more intimately.

The experience starts early with hotel pickup, so you don’t have to worry about taxis or logistics. The guides and drivers are friendly and professional—many reviews highlighted how much they added to the tour’s charm by sharing local stories and making everyone feel at ease. Plus, the small group size (maximum 10 travelers) keeps the atmosphere cozy and engaging.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

Long Bien Bridge & Red River Views

The tour kicks off at 8:30 a.m. with a pickup from your hotel. Your first stop is the iconic Long Bien Bridge, built between 1899-1902 by French architects. You’ll pause in the middle of the bridge to take in panoramic views of the Red River, the floating houses, and the lush Banana Island. The bridge itself, with its iron structure and history, offers a tangible connection to Vietnam’s colonial past. One reviewer noted, “Riding across the bridge was like stepping back in time, and the views of the river are spectacular.”

Co Loa Citadel & Local Farming Experience

Next, the ride takes you into the peaceful countryside, passing through rice paddies, corn, sweet potato, and herb fields. The scenery is green and quiet, a stark contrast to Hanoi’s busy streets. At a local family’s home, you’ll enjoy a warm welcome with Vietnamese tea and have the chance to try farming activities like planting or watering crops—an immersive way to connect with rural life. Several travelers appreciated this stop, mentioning how genuine and uncommercialized the experience felt. One said, “It was refreshing to see real farmers at work and chat with them about their daily routines.”

Artisans of Buddha Wooden Carvings

A visit to a craft village renowned for wooden Buddha carvings offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s artisanal craftsmanship. Meeting local artisans, you’ll see how traditional sculptures are made and perhaps even purchase a unique souvenir. The review consensus was that watching these artisans at work was inspiring; “You can really see the talent and dedication in every piece,” said a traveler.

Historical and Cultural Exploration at Co Loa Citadel

The highlight for history buffs is the visit to the ancient spiral soil citadel, dating back to the 3rd BC, and the complex temple of King Au Lac. Sitting in a sidewalk café under an ancient tree, your guide will share legends about the citadel, love stories, and local myths—adding layers of context to the ruins. It’s a rare opportunity to step inside a site that’s been a strategic and cultural hub for over two millennia.

The Perfect Lunch: Outdoor BBQ & Free Drinks

No tour of Vietnam is complete without sampling its delicious food, and here you get a stylist outdoor BBQ lunch featuring beef, pork, chicken, seafood, and more. The setting is relaxed and informal, with tables outside under the shade of trees. The free-flow drinks—beer, water, soft drinks—keep you refreshed amid the warm weather. Several guests remarked on the quality and freshness of the grilled meats, describing it as a highlight of the tour.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing & Group Size

The tour is priced at $70 per person—an excellent value considering the variety of sites visited, the included meals, and the personalized experience. The private vintage Vespa and the safety equipment (helmets, safe riders) give peace of mind, especially for those new to riding scooters. The tour lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes, with most of that time spent traveling between stops.

Pickup is from the centrally located Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, and the tour ends back at the same point. The small group size ensures that you’re not just another face in a crowd, but rather part of an intimate adventure.

What We Loved and What to Consider

The standout aspect of this tour is the authenticity. Riding through real villages, meeting local artisans, and witnessing farming life up close is far more enriching than a typical sightseeing bus. The outdoor BBQ lunch is also a real treat, offering delicious food in a casual setting that feels like a mini feast with friends.

However, since the itinerary involves riding a scooter for over four hours, it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable on a bike or scooter and don’t mind a bit of motion. The weather can also impact the experience—hot or rainy days might make the ride less comfortable, though the tour provider offers refunds or rescheduling options in case of poor weather.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This Vespa adventure is ideal for those who want to escape Hanoi’s traffic and explore the countryside in a relaxed, immersive way. It’s perfect if you enjoy history, local culture, and scenic rides combined with tasty food. If you’re traveling with someone who’s comfortable on a scooter, or if you’re keen to try something a little adventurous, this tour will hit the right note.

It also suits travelers who appreciate authentic interactions—meeting farmers, artisans, and local families—more than just ticking off tourist sites. The value for money is clear: you get a mix of historical exploration, cultural encounters, scenic countryside, and a hearty meal, all within a manageable half-day.

Who Might Not Love It?

Those seeking a more sedentary or purely sightseeing experience might find the riding aspect tiring. Also, if you’re not comfortable on a scooter or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. It’s not a luxury tour, but one focused on genuine local experiences and outdoor fun.

FAQ

Do I need to be a good rider to join this tour?
Not necessarily. You’ll be riding with experienced riders who prioritize safety, and helmets are provided. Still, comfort on a scooter is recommended to fully enjoy the experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for kids who are comfortable riding on scooters and can handle the outdoor environment for several hours.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather is best, plus sun protection. Since you’ll be riding, closed-toe shoes are recommended.

Are the stops far apart?
No, the stops are well-paced, with enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. The total ride covers scenic countryside, but it’s manageable.

Is the food included vegetarian options?
The BBQ mainly features meats and seafood, but it’s worth checking with the operator if you have dietary restrictions. The tour emphasizes local, traditional cuisine.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, the Hanoi Countryside Hideaway Vespa Tour offers an engaging way to see Vietnam’s rural roots, blending scenic riding, cultural discovery, and delicious food into one memorable experience. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers, history lovers, and those eager to see a side of Hanoi that few travelers get to experience. With thoughtful planning and a spirit of curiosity, this tour can become a highlight of your Vietnam journey.