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 19-07-2024

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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, 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 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, 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? Click in The 8 Best Things To Do in Hanoi: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors!

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 Train street in Hanoi - Beauty of the capital's time

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 good life on both sides of Hanoi Train Street

There are more than 10 trains passing every day while Hanoi's railway tracks are only about 1-2 m away from houses and people. Travel is therefore difficult because the streets of this “railway village” are only wide enough for pedestrians or motorcycles. Cars cannot access it.

Residents have spent their entire lives on Hanoi Train Street, everything from the confined space with the noise and vibration of passing trains had become familiar. In the absence of trains, residents carry out tasks such as drying clothes, washing dishes, cooking or chatting with neighbors... mainly outside and on the train tracks. 

However, they know the train times by heart. The train siren sounds, and instantly life withdraws from the rails to let the convoy pass, brushing against passers-by and houses. That's why, even though it seems to be very dangerous, the number of train street accidents in Hanoi is low.

For those who were lucky enough to stroll along Hanoi Railway Street, they could spot local elderly people playing chess, women preparing vegetables for their meals, children running or chatting with locals here to listen to their life stories.

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: Catch the Train Crossing the Neighborhoods!

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. You should 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. Can you still visit train street Hanoi? 

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.

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 that covers all the beautiful gems of the city and beyond!

5. Where to Eat Like a Local? Street Food nearby

Hanoi Train Street is a bustling hotspot known for offering a unique experience to tourists. But if you're hungry, don't worry! The neighbors also serve the most delectable and affordable Vietnamese Street Food. Check out our infographic - your guide to the best street food you won't want to miss! 

Building on the lively atmosphere and authentic street food offerings along Hanoi Train Street, for those looking to elevate their culinary journey, the city is also home to some of the best restaurants in Hanoi.

6. Tips and Advice for Visiting Hanoi Train Street in 2024

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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