Cycling Through Hanoi: A Sustainable Journey of Discovery

From Hoàn Kiếm Lake to Thăng Long Imperial Citadel, blue public bicycle stations are scattered everywhere promising an exciting journey through Hanoi’s rich culture and lush green spaces.

Chèo theater station (Photo by: The Chick)

Hanoi, a bustling city known for its busy streets, now features the increasingly familiar sight of blue public bicycle stations. Operated by Tri Nam group, these bikes are stationed across key locations in Hanoi. This service not only offers an eco-friendly transportation option but also introduces a unique way to explore the city.

Public bicycle stations in Hanoi (Photo by: The Chick)

Renting a public bicycle is quick and easy with just a few steps on your smartphone. Start by downloading the TNgo app from Google Play or the App Store. Once downloaded, create a new account by following the app's instructions. Next, deposit a minimum of 20,000 VND into your account. After that, simply scan the bike's QR code to unlock it. You can check the battery level before clicking 'Start,' and the bike will unlock automatically.

(Photo by The Chick)

And Now, The Journey Begins...

We set off early in the morning, when Hanoi seemed livelier with the sounds of market vendors, vehicles passing by, and people chatting cheerfully. These lively sounds, combined with the fresh morning air, created a lively yet comforting atmosphere. Riding through the Old Quarter streets, we could vividly experience the distinctive charm of Hanoi's historic center.

Riding through the Old Quarter streets (Photo by The Chick)

Following the route along Hoàn Kiếm Lake, we stopped at Lý Thái Tổ Park, which conveniently hosts another public bicycle station. The lush greenery and unique architecture  made it an ideal resting spot. While taking a break, we encountered a few foreign tourists who were intrigued by the public bikes.

(Photo by The Chick)

 Although we enthusiastically guided them through the process of downloading the app and renting a bike, the service currently only supports Vietnamese phone numbers. Therefore, they are unable to rent on their own. To help, our group offered them our bikes for a short ride around the park.

Foreign visitors try riding public bicycles around Lý Thái Tổ Park (Photo by: The Chick)

The journey continued to other iconic destinations, such as Hỏa Lò Prison Relic and Thăng Long Imperial Citadel. In the afternoon, we cycled along the tree-lined paths around the citadel and took a moment to admire the timeless beauty of its ancient architecture.

Travelling to Hỏa Lò Prison Relic and Thăng Long Imperial Citadel (Photo by: The Chick)

We ended the trip by returning the bikes at a station near the entrance of Thủ Lệ Park. Here, we were surprised to see several local residents using the public bikes as well.

What Tourists And Locals Are Saying About The Service

After trying the public bicycles, foreign visitors expressed their enjoyment and hoped the service would expand to accommodate international users. Mr. Markus Fuerst, a German tourist, praised the bikes for their stability, navigation holder, and suitability for short rides, though he suggested offering larger sizes for taller users. Meanwhile, Ms. Helene Wall, Mr. Fuerst's partner, highlighted the ecological benefits of the service, which she greatly appreciated.

A local resident uses public bicycle to commute. (Photo by: The Chick)

At Thủ Lệ Park, we met several people using public bicycles for short commutes between the subway station and their workplaces. Mr. Long, an office worker, praised the service for its convenience, flexibility, and affordability but pointed out issues like slow app responses and bike maintenance due to outdoor storage.

A station near Thủ Lệ Park (Photo by : The Chick)

Similarly, Ms. Lan, an office worker, said she appreciated the affordable monthly subscription but noticed occasional glitches with the app. She also hoped for better connections between bike stations and public transport to make it more convenient.

Public bicycle services not only offer residents and tourists with an alternative way to get around but also offer the chance to experience a different side of Hanoi – greener, fresher, and more exciting.

Launched in December 2022 and operated by Hanoi Transport Corporation (Transerco), the public bicycle service provides over 100 stations across key urban districts, offering more than 3500 of traditional and electric bicycles. Additionally, some stations are strategically located near bus stops and metro lines to encourage multi-modal transportation. TNGo public bicycle service is currently available in 06 Provinces and Cities: Hanoi, Hai Phong, Da Nang, Quy Nhon, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh. Currently, there are 85 stations in Hanoi.

(By The Chick)

If you have one day off, would you like to discover Hanoi using these public bikes?

• Yes
• Maybe
• No