Train Street in Hanoi: Complete Guide by Locals 2024

Hanoi Train Street for foreign travelers is considered a unique and must-visit place for those who wish to experience “an authentic Vietnamese capital”. Marking the beauty of time through the years, it is the sign of the history of the capital of Vietnam but also one of the most photogenic places in the city. 
What is the address of Train Street in Hanoi? What are the train times in 2024? Has Hanoi Train Street opened yet? In the article below you will find 2024 updated information about this street.

Written by Thu Giang (Local Expert) Updated on 17-10-2024

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1. Where is Hanoi Train Street and Hanoi Train Street Southern?

1.1 Hanoi Train Street (Old Quarter)

Hanoi Train Street (Google Maps) runs from Long Bien Station to Hanoi Central Station, passing through residential areas on Phung Hung, Dien Bien Phu, Kham Thien and Le Duan streets. It's located on the edge of the Old Quarter, near popular landmarks such as:

• Hoan Kiem Lake (2.5 km to the east)
• St. Joseph Cathedral (near Hoan Kiem Lake)
• Imperial City of Thang Long (800 meters to the west) - where you can visit a palace and several historic buildings.

In this area of Hanoi Train Street you will also find the Temple of Literature, with almost 1000 years the oldest university in Vietnam.

However, if you want the best experience and great photos in this attraction in Hanoi, you need to take turns where the train turns dramatically without disturbing the houses on either side too much. 

1.2 The Hanoi Train Street (Southern)

The Hanoi Train Street in Southern (Google Maps) or Alternative Hanoi Train Street in Le Duan, Kham Thien just past the Hanoi train station, offers a quieter vibe. Here, you won’t encounter as many tourists, and the shops mainly specialize in woodworking and furniture. Passing by on the train revealed noticeably fewer crowds compared to the other sections. It seems like a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts seeking a more peaceful setting.

>>> Want to dig in more essential things in Hanoi? Here are The 8 Best Things To Do in Hanoi!

1.3 How to enter Hanoi Train Street? Google Maps to all locations

To reach Train Street in Old Quarter, start at the intersection of Dien Bien Phu and Ton That Thiep streets. Follow the tracks to Tran Phu Street, then Phung Hung Street. This area is in Hanoi's Old Quarter. You can easily get there by walking along the walls without needing Google Maps.

Many people don't know that Hanoi has multiple spots where the train passes through narrow streets. Since Google Maps may not clearly show these locations, we've created a custom map for you.

The stretch between Entrance 3 and Entrance 4 is the busiest segment of Hanoi Train Street. This area is lined with numerous cafes on both sides of the tracks, creating a vibrant and bustling atmosphere. It’s the most popular spot to watch the train pass by, making it an exciting experience.

Close to Entrance 1 and 2, you can see the train approaching or leaving amid lush greenery. While cafes here are only on one side of the tracks, it’s still a fantastic spot to catch a glimpse of the train or enjoy a coffee. This section is almost as popular as the busier segment mentioned above.

2. Why You Should Visit Hanoi Train Street?

2.1 The History of Hanoi Train Street

Hanoi Train Street is a narrow railway bypass where trains pass close to buildings twice daily. Built by the French in 1902, it remains an active rail line as of 2023. The tracks occupy nearly the entire street, making it a unique and photogenic spot in the city.

What attracts travelers is that this railway line is in the middle and passes through residential neighborhoods. More surprisingly, the passage between the track and the houses is really narrow, only a few steps away. It's so close that it looks like it could swallow the surrounding houses. 

>>> Capture the essence of Hanoi's charm and history in our specially Vietnam curated 10-day itinerary!

This part of Hanoi has fascinating architecture with a mix of new and old houses. It designates a beautiful image with different colors, creating a “vintage” atmosphere on every street corner.

Adding to the allure of Train Street's narrow passageways and vintage charm, many visitors are drawn to the area not only for its unique urban landscape but also for its proximity to some of the top museums in Hanoi, which showcase the rich history and vibrant culture of Vietnam's capital.

2.2 The daily local life of Hanoi Train Street

Hanoi’s Train Street is known for its unique proximity to the railway tracks, with trains passing just 1-2 meters from houses multiple times a day. The narrow streets, accessible only by foot or motorbike, make car travel impossible. Residents, accustomed to the confined space, carry out daily activities like drying clothes, cooking, and chatting on the tracks when no trains are due.

Despite the seeming danger, accidents are rare, as locals know the Hanoi Train Street schedule by heart. At the sound of the train siren, life retreats from the rails, allowing the train to pass safely. You might also see locals playing chess, preparing meals, or sharing stories with curious passers-by, offering a look into the daily rhythm of life along the tracks.

You might love: Train Travel Vietnam: Complete Guide and Routes in 2024

3. Entrance Fee at Hanoi Train Street?

There is no official fee to enter Hanoi Train Street. However, the entrances are gated and often monitored by police or local shop owners. To gain entry, you usually need to follow a shop owner and purchase at least one drink from the cafes.

Although the drinks are pricier than usual, they are not excessively expensive, and there is a wide selection available.

For example, a bottle of water costs around 20,000 VND ($0.80 USD), while an egg coffee costs approximately 50,000 VND ($2 USD).

You can view a menu from one of the cafes at Hanoi Train Street below: 

4. Hanoi Train Street Schedule

It's best to know the schedule of the train that passes through the neighborhood in order to have the best photos and experiences.

At each specific location there will be a different train schedule. However, in the Phung Hung area, the most beautiful bend, the train usually passes through in the evening at 7:00 p.m., 7:45 p.m., 8:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.

If you want to visit Train Street during the day, weekend is best. Saturday and Sunday there will be more trains: 6 a.m., 9 a.m., 11:20 a.m., 3:20 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

In fact, Hanoi train street schedule is not fixed and a delay of 15 minutes is generally expected. It is therefore better to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time to have a good view  So it's best that you arrive 30 minutes early to choose a coffee to enjoy while you wait. You can take photos of the railway and the houses before the train arrives. Care must be taken to follow the guard's instructions to ensure railway safety. You can save the train street schedule below:

Hanoi Train Street Schedule

Day	Location	Time
Monday – Sunday	Le Duan Train Street	AM: 6:10, 11:40    PM: 3:30, 6:00, 7:10, 7:50, 9:00
Monday – Friday	Phung Hung Train Street	AM: 8:30, 9:30, 11:50    PM: 3:15, 7:50, 9:15, 9:30, 10:00
Saturday – Sunday	Phung Hung Train Street	AM: 6:00, 7:15, 9:30, 11:50    PM: 3:30, 5:30, 7:30, 7:50, 9:15, 9:30, 10:00

5. What happened to the Hanoi Train Street? 

At the end of 2022, the Train Street cafe area has been closed due to security. Security barriers have been installed, there are checkpoints to ensure railway safety because the coffee trade makes traffic dangerous. According to the official announcement, railway cafes would temporarily close in Phung Hung and Cua Nam areas.

>>>> Read more: Best time to Visit Vietnam

5. Some Hanoi train cafes that we recommend

• Spot 09 - No. 09 Duong Tau Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Coffee Waitrans 74 - No. 74 Duong Tau Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Café Ga Đông Dương -  No 5A. Tran Phu Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Railway Cafe - No 5. Tran Phu Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• 30 Train Coffee - No. 159 Duong Tau Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• MER café - No. 48 Duong Tau Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Laika Cafe - 18 Hang Cot Street, Hang Ma, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Hảo Hảo Coffee - No. 80 Duong Tau Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

>>>>  Explore Hanoi Train Street on our exclusive Vietnam 2-week itinerary!

5. Where to eat like a local? The best treet food nearby

Check out our infographic - your guide to the best street food near Hanoi Train Street! While the area offers a lively atmosphere and authentic street food, the city is also home to some of the best restaurants in Hanoi.

6. FAQs

1. Is it free to visit Hanoi Train Street?

Yes, visiting Hanoi Train Street is free of charge.

2. Can I take photos on the train tracks?

For safety reasons, it is not recommended to take photos directly on the train tracks. Use designated photo spots or stay behind the yellow safety line.

3. Are there any other attractions near Hanoi Train Street?

Nearby attractions include Hoan Kiem Lake, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and Dong Xuan Market, all within walking distance.

4. Can I visit Hanoi Train Street during the day?

Yes, you can visit Hanoi Train Street any time during the day, though the most popular times are when trains pass, typically at 3:30 PM and 7:30 PM.

5. Is Hanoi Train Street suitable for children?

Yes, children can visit, but adult supervision is essential. Be sure to follow all safety guidelines while on the street.

6. Can you still visit Hanoi Train Street?

Yes, Hanoi Train Street is not blocked; the main entrance from the crossing of the railways is blocked and guarded. You could get in only by visiting one of the cafes that were on the tracks. The owners of the cafes can escort you onto the street following all the safety rules.

7. Is Hanoi Train Street illegal?

Some sections of Hanoi Train Street, particularly the parts north of Hanoi station, have been closed due to safety concerns. However, the southern part of the street remains open, though it is closely monitored.

8. Is it safe to eat street food in Hanoi?

Absolutely! Eating street food in Vietnam is a great way to engage in the local culture. While the food is generally safe, it’s recommended to choose vendors with high turnover, ensure the food is cooked thoroughly, and observe basic hygiene precautions.

7. Tips and Advice

Safety First:

• Always prioritize safety. Obey all instructions from railway staff and cafe owners.
• Move to designated safe areas when a train approaches.
• Never stand on the tracks or get too close to the oncoming train.
• Mind your children closely and keep them away from the tracks.

Planning Your Visit:

• Check the train schedule before you go. While the schedule isn't fixed, weekends generally have more trains (see our guide above for details).
• Arrive early (30 minutes is recommended) to secure a good viewing spot, especially on weekends or during peak tourist hours.
• Consider visiting during the day for better lighting for photos.
• Weekdays offer a quieter experience if you prefer less crowded situations.

Enjoying the Experience:

• Respect the local residents. Keep noise levels down and be mindful of their privacy.
• Choose a cafe with a good view of the tracks if you want to relax and wait for the train.
• Bring cash for any drinks or snacks you might purchase at the cafes.
• Take photos responsibly. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid blocking others' views.

Bonus Tip:

• Explore the surrounding area! The Hanoi Old Quarter offers a variety of shops, cafes, and historical landmarks to discover after your Train Street visit.

One last word

In short, the “Hanoi train street” is a must-see site when you visit the capital of Hanoi thanks to its rustic but also modern beauty. Above all, the government of Vietnam is doing everything possible to build an interesting and safe place for those who want great experiences here. When taking this tour, travelers must respect safety instructions in order to have a peaceful trip. So, if you plan to enrich your visit to Hanoi, put this attractive destination on your list. 

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