Hanoi Train Street winds its way through several bustling streets, including Phung Hung, Dien Bien Phu, and Le Duan. For an authentic experience, visitors should begin their journey at Alley 224 on Le Duan Street or Alley 5 on Tran Phu Street. However, the stretch through Phung Hung Street is undoubtedly the most vibrant, drawing visitors with its lively atmosphere and the thrilling spectacle.
Train Street's location can easily be found on Google Maps
Taxis offer a direct, comfortable route with door-to-door service, ideal for those avoiding long walks. However, it can be more expensive and may be delayed due to traffic. The cost ranges from 50,000 - 100,000 VND, with drop-off at 224 Le Duan or Tran Phu Streets.
Walking allows an intimate, immersive experience of Train Street, offering close-up views of the vibrant surroundings. However, it can be time-consuming and challenging in rainy or hot weather. It takes about 15 minutes to walk from Hanoi’s Old Quarter to Le Duan or Tran Phu Streets.
Walk along Train Street to experience the vibrant life of the area
Along the way, you can also make a detour to visit the scenic Truc Bach Lake Hanoi, which is just a short walk from the train street area and offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling railway atmosphere.
Public buses offer an affordable and scenic way to reach Train Street, with routes 19, 36, 38, and 39 taking you to Phung Hung Station or the Hanoi Opera House. The fare is only 8,000 - 12,000 VND (USD 0.30 - USD 0.50) per ride, and it’s just a short walk from Phung Hung Train Street.
Bus route 36 stops opposite 16 Phung Hung, near the train street
Motorbikes offer a quick, flexible way to avoid traffic and explore Hanoi at your own pace. However, chaotic traffic can make it challenging, especially for unfamiliar riders. The cost is around 30,000 - 200,000 VND/day, with rentals available at nearby shops or via the Grab app.
Tip: Park at a trackside café for around 10,000 VND (USD 0.50) to secure your spot.
You can rent a motorbike for easy access to Train Street and other tourist destinations around Hanoi
The Birth of the Tracks: A Colonial Legacy
Hanoi Train Street was born during the French colonial era when the French established the railway system to connect Hanoi with other parts of Vietnam. In the late 19th century, the French engineers laid down tracks through the heart of the city, with homes and businesses built right alongside them.
Hanoi's Train Street was born during the French colonial era when the French established the railway system to connect Hanoi with other parts of Vietnam
Wartime Tales: Resilience Amidst the Rails
Amidst the turmoil of the Vietnam War, Hanoi Train Street became more than just a passage for trains, it became a symbol of unwavering resilience. As bombs rained down and the city trembled with the weight of conflict, the tracks remained constant. Life here carried on, with the rhythmic hum of the trains offering both comfort and a sense of continuity.
In the face of destruction, this narrow alleyway became a quiet testament to the strength of the people who called it home
Hanoi Train Street is a captivating blend of old-world charm and vibrant modern life. The colorful homes and cozy cafes line the narrow alley, offering a front-row seat to the thrilling spectacle of trains passing just inches away. Here, tradition and innovation collide, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of bustling energy and serene beauty. It’s a place where the soul of Hanoi thrives, framed by the hum of trains and the warmth of local life.
It attracts many tourists who enjoy taking photos with the train tracks
Hanoi Train Street stands out with its colourfully decorated cafés
If you want to catch the moment the train passes by to take beautiful pictures, you can refer to the train schedule below to plan your trip.
Note: Train schedules may change without prior notice. It’s recommended to arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled train time or ask the café owner for specific details. Or you can visit the Fanpage of Vietnam Railways for the latest information.
There’s nothing quite like sipping a strong Vietnamese coffee while the train barrels past just inches away. Settle into one of the cozy cafés along Phung Hung Street, where locals serve aromatic drip coffee or creamy egg coffee, allowing the rich flavors to blend seamlessly with the energy of the passing train. Expect to pay around 25,000 - 60,000 VND (USD 1 - USD 3) for your cup.
Visitors can enjoy aromatic coffee while waiting for the train to pass
Tip: Arrive early to experience a quieter atmosphere before the crowds begin to gather. And remember to visit one of this coffee shop: 30 Train Coffee (30 Duong Tau, Phung Hung); San Ga 62 (62 Duong Tau, Phung Hung); MER café (48 Duong Tau, Phung Hung); Hao Hao Coffee (80 Chan 5, Tran Phu).
Hanoi Train Street is a photographer’s paradise, offering countless opportunities to capture the essence of the city. From the vibrant cafés lining the tracks to the raw beauty of crumbling facades adorned with hanging lanterns, every corner presents a frame-worthy shot.
Be creative and capture unique photos at Hanoi Train Street
The train street nightlife
After capturing the vibrant evening scenes at Train Street, visitors can continue their night out at a rooftop bar in Hanoi for panoramic city views and cocktails.
For dynamic action shots, capture the train rounding the corner, with locals quickly pulling in tables and chairs just in time. Don’t miss candid moments, such as street vendors, residents, and children playing near the tracks.
Tip: A wide-angle lens will allow you to capture both the fast-moving train and the narrow alleyway in a single shot, creating a wonderful image of this bustling street.
Watching the train race through Hanoi Train Street is an exhilarating experience, as the rumbling train speeds by just inches away from you. Simply find a spot along Phung Hung Street or Tran Phu Street, purchase a drink from one of the local cafés nearby.
Numerous tourists love capturing the moment the train passes by
Tip: Stand safely behind the barricades or in a café for the best view and to ensure your safety as the train passes.
Along Phung Hung Street, at the base of Tau Street, you’ll find vibrant murals that beautifully capture the everyday life of Hanoians. The murals vividly depict scenes from the past, such as Hanoi trams (which ran from 1901 to 1991), bustling streets, street vendors, festivals, and old houses, all brought to life in bright, vivid colours.
The mural paintings along the street reflect the simple, rustic life of old Hanoi
Tip: For the best photos, visit early in the morning on a sunny day. During holidays like the Mid-Autumn Festival and Lunar New Year, the street is adorned with flags and colourful lanterns, making it a perfect spot for photos both during the day and in the evening.
As you walk along Train Street, in addition to the rich aroma of coffee, you’ll also catch the enticing scents of traditional pho and grilled meat from roadside stalls. Savoring a hot bowl of beef pho or gathering with friends around a table of fragrant grilled dishes offers a unique culinary experience that’s a must-try when visiting Hanoi’s Train Street.
You can fill your stomach with a hot bowl of beef noodle soup at one of the shops along the street
You can refer to some delicious restaurants around the Train Street area below:
Tip: Each meal costs from 20,000 - 325,000 VND (USD 1 – USD 13).
As you stroll along Phung Hung Street, take the opportunity to chat with the locals and hear fascinating stories about life and culture here. During holidays and anniversaries, the street often hosts cultural events, offering a chance to dive deeper into traditional Vietnamese culture, the old ways of Hanoi, and the heroic history of the capital’s people.
Tip: Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation – many residents can speak English for simple exchanges.
For those looking to experience Hanoi's vibrant nightlife scene after exploring Train Street, the city offers numerous night clubs in Hanoi Vietnam where you can dance and socialize until late.
Along the streets near the railway, you’ll find numerous souvenir shops lining both sides of the road. These shops offer a range of traditional local handicrafts, such as railway paintings, conical hats, embroidered wallets, and ceramic teapots – all perfect keepsakes to remember your trip to Vietnam.
Tip: While the seller may initially offer a higher price, don’t hesitate to gently negotiate for a better deal.
Souvenirs with Vietnamese identity are sold at many shops along the street
Yes, it will be a safe experience if you follow these safety guidelines:
Here are the answers to some common questions about visiting and exploring Hanoi Train Street:
Trains typically pass through Hanoi Train Street several times a day, with popular viewing times around 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM and 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM. However, the schedule can change, so it's best to check with a local café or guide for the latest timing on the day of your visit.
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Hanoi Train Street. However, to fully experience the charm of the area, it’s recommended to stop by one of the cafés along the street. Enjoy a drink, watch the locals, and wait for the train to pass. Drink prices typically range from 30,000 to 60,000 VND (or USD 1.50 - USD 2.50 USD).
Visitors do not need to pay an entrance fee to visit Hanoi's Train Street
The famous Hanoi Train Street refers to the narrow railway tracks running through residential neighborhoods along Tran Phu and Phung Hung streets in the Old Quarter. This unique location gained international fame as visitors could experience trains passing just inches away from homes and cafes.
Yes, there are a few regulations you need to follow:
Safety is important – keep a safe distance when the train passes
Train Street was closed to the public by Vietnamese authorities in 2019 and again in later years due to increasing safety risks from overcrowding and tourists standing too close to active tracks. The closure aims to prevent accidents and maintain public safety, especially as the area was never designed to accommodate large numbers of visitors.
Access to Train Street has become restricted due to safety concerns. While the tracks themselves are not fully closed, unauthorized entry is prohibited, and security checkpoints are in place. Some local cafés with approved licenses may offer limited access, but it's best to go with a local guide or book through a tour for a safe and legal visit.
Visiting Hanoi Train Street is just one of many exciting experiences when exploring what to do in Hanoi. This unique attraction, combined with the city's rich history, delicious street food, and vibrant culture, makes it an essential part of any Hanoi itinerary.
If you're eager to feel the thrill of a train rushing by just inches from you and experience the rhythm of life blending the past and present of Hanoi Train Street, book your Flight to Hanoi with Vietnam Airlines today! For more details on flights, baggage policies, and travel itineraries, contact Vietnam Airlines via their hotline at 1900 1100, or through Fanpage or Zalo for expert advice.
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