The Hanoi Train Street is one of the most iconic tourist activities to complete while spending time in the Old Quarter of Hanoi. And, the nature of the train street is constantly changing, making it crucial to do your research before visiting to avoid disappointment!
Firstly, the train street is a significant part of Hanoi’s history which I delve into a little further later on in the post. And, it’s a fantastic and fun activity to experience while visiting the city. For a small place, there is a vibrant atmosphere and a lot going on through this tiny laneway.
Moreover, if you are spending any time in Hanoi, make this attraction the top of your list as it’s easily the ultimate tourist attraction in the city!
Continue reading my insider guide for the best tips and information before visiting.
A Travellers Guide to Visiting Hanoi Train Street
History
This railway dates back over 100 years old and was built to transfer goods and passengers from the north to the south of Vietnam.
For the most part, this is a reasonably dangerous spot for the locals to live in as there is no alarm or warning of when the train is about to come through. The locals just need to be aware of the train timetables and be ready to stand in a safe space to allow the train to pass through.
Originally, it was just a small corridor where there were a few houses built close to the tracks. Then, a local opened a cafe to entice tourists to visit the area. And now, it’s turned into the tourist hotspot as we know it!
‘The Railway Hanoi’ was the original cafe that started it all, but it has now closed its doors permanently. Nonetheless, there are still some old signs and things you can check out to discover the history of this cafe.
If you would like to discover a locals perspective of living along the tracks for two years, I would recommend reading Fabienne’s story here.
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Where Is the Hanoi Train Street and How Do I Get There?
At the current time of writing, the typical access to the train street is closed. So, that means that tourists can’t walk along the tracks like we used to. Instead, you will have one of the cafe owners come out and ask if you would like a coffee or beer.
Then, they will lead you to their cafe through one of the alleys and you will get the chance to enjoy the view while waiting for the train to pass through. The experience is still quite similar but has changed slightly for tourist safety.
Use the address below to get to the best location on Hanoi Train Street. However, this exact address will take you to a specific coffee shop, but feel free to try out any in the area.
Finally, there are a few ways that you can reach this location. Hanoi is very easy to walk around, so you could simply wander over to the street on foot, especially if you are staying within the Old Quarter. Otherwise, use the app ‘Grab’ to get a motorbike taxi or car taxi to reach the location.
Please note: Check local and news sources for current updates to check if the street is open or closed as this may change frequently.
Address: 5 P. Trần Phú, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Entrance Fee
There is no entrance fee to visit the train street and it is a completely free activity. However, I highly recommend taking some dong if you would like to have a beer, coffee, or some food.
Besides, this is crucial for the survival of the local businesses and the service is ultra cheap! And, if you want to get a seat in one of the cafes, you need to purchase at least one item!
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How Much Time Should I Allow?
Depending on how much you have on for the day, I highly recommend setting aside at least one hour to enjoy the train street. Moreover, this includes arriving at least 30 minutes before the train comes, to wander around and find a cafe.
And, some time to watch the locals warn the tourists and shop owners to get off the tracks. This is when you’ll see a bunch of store owners move tables and chairs aside.
Finally, the train only takes a minute to come through, and then you can finish off enjoying whatever drink or food you’ve ordered.
Train Schedule
The train schedule is subject to vary. And, the best way to check the hours is via a local site that may have updated information on the Hanoi train street schedule.
Nonetheless, below is a rough guide on when the train runs through:
Monday to Friday: 7:00 PM, 7:45 PM, 8:30 PM, and 10:00 PM.
Saturday and Sunday: 6:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 11:20 AM, 3:20 PM, 5:30 PM, 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, 7:45 PM, 8:30 PM, 9:00 PM, and 11:00 PM.
Please note: Be sure to check public holidays for a change in the schedule.
There are plenty of times that the trains run through the street so you can enjoy it multiple times throughout the week. And, you can set up in this spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
I highly recommend visiting during lunch as this is when you can enjoy a big tasty bowl of Pho or some other tasty Vietnamese cuisine and you will have the best visibility of the train.
Things to Do at the Hanoi Train Street
If the tracks are open for wandering along, I highly recommend checking them out before the train comes through. Moreover, this is a great time to explore some of the cafes and stores sitting along the street.
Additionally, there are loads of gorgeous photo opportunities along the tracks and this is a great time to see what the locals get up to along this narrow little street.
Find a nice cafe, and then take a seat in the upstairs area for the best view of the tracks and train. You’d be surprised at just how big these trains are and you won’t be able to see much if you’re seated downstairs.
There are plenty of spots you can enjoy a bowl of pho, spring rolls, bun cha, banh mi, egg coffee, and local beers!
Why You Should Visit the Train Street
The train street is an iconic tourist location in Hanoi, however, it still offers an incredible display of the deeply rooted history of Hanoi. Moreover, it’s a special part of the Old Quarter and is an excellent activity to do while visiting the city.
With my week-long adventure in Hanoi, this was easily my favourite activity while visiting the city. And, I would love to come back here again to experience it. So, I highly recommend it to all travellers!
Safety Tips
Steer very clear of the tracks once you hear the warning from the local with the whistle. Moreover, he will usually shout in Vietnamese for everyone to get off the tracks and this is when you will see the local store owners removing any tables or chairs near the tracks.
You may notice a yellow line on the ground. Stay as far behind the yellow line as possible. Seriously, this train basically grazes its way through all the buildings; It’s a tight squeeze!
So, get far away from the tracks and sit well inside the restaurant. If you plan to be seated inside, I’d recommend sitting upstairs to be well away from the train and in a safe spot. And, don’t hang anything off the rails including phones, cameras, or body parts!
The train flies by quickly and comes extremely close; So keep your distance!
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, the Hanoi train street is one of the must-visit locations in Hanoi. It’s a great activity to do whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or with family.
I highly recommend that every traveller visits this location while spending time in Hanoi, especially the old quarter. So, take my insider travel advice on board in order to have the ultimate experience!
Finally, be sure to check out this page for all things Vietnam! I’m constantly updating this section of my blog and adding plenty of new content to give you the best travel advice in Vietnam. Happy travels!
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