This blog post is all about Hanoi Train Street.

When I was planning my trip to Southeast Asia, there were a few places I knew I absolutely couldn’t miss, and Hanoi Train Street was right at the top of my bucket list.
I’d seen the photos of trains rumbling down a narrow track, just inches from tiny cafes and homes, and I couldn’t wrap my head around how something so surreal could be real.
It looked like something out of a movie, and I knew I had to experience it for myself.
This blog post is all about everything you need to know about Hanoi Train Street.
My Visit to Hanoi Train Street
By the time I made it to Hanoi, I couldn’t wait to see Train Street in person. Wandering down the Old Quarter’s bustling streets, I finally arrived.
It was both as chaotic and mesmerizing as I’d imagined. Locals went about their daily routines, motorbikes zipped past, and visitors eagerly snapped photos while sipping on Vietnamese coffee.
And then came the moment everyone was waiting for: the train barreling down the tracks, so close you could feel the rush of air.
Hanoi Train Street is unlike anything else I’ve seen on my travels, but visiting does require a bit of planning, especially with the recent restrictions and safety measures.
To help you make the most of your visit, I’ve put together this guide covering everything you need to know. From where it is and how to get there to safety tips and the best times to visit.
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Useful Links & Resources
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RELATED blog post to read: The Best Backpacker Travel Insurance for Southeast Asia
Where is Hanoi Train Street?
Hanoi Train Street is located in the heart of the Old Quarter, making it easy to access from most parts of the city.
The exact address of the most famous stretch is 5 Tran Phu Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
This is the spot you’ve likely seen all over social media. The iconic narrow alley lined with cafes, homes, and shops, where the train barrels through just inches away.
The area is divided into two main sections:
The North (Nguyen Khach Nhu Street)
This is the number one spot and by far the most famous. If you’ve seen a photo or video of Hanoi Train Street, chances are it was taken here.
It’s the more tourist-friendly section, with plenty of cafes offering seating right by the tracks.
This is where you’ll find the bustling energy, locals mingling with visitors, and the iconic train moments that have made this place so famous.
If you search Hanoi train street on google maps this is the one it will take you too.
The South (Đ.Lê Duẩn, Khâm Thiên)
For those looking for a more laid-back experience, this section offers a glimpse into everyday life in Hanoi without as many tourists.
It’s less commercialized, with fewer cafes and businesses catering specifically to visitors, but it’s just as fascinating.
If you’re short on time and want that classic Hanoi Train Street experience, head straight to the popular spot at Tran Phu Street.
The atmosphere is electric, and the photos you’ll capture here will be exactly what you’ve dreamed of.
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How to Get to Hanoi Train Street
Hanoi Train Street is easily accessible from the Old Quarter, where most tourists stay.
- Walking: If you’re staying in the Old Quarter, it’s a short walk to the main entrance near Tran Phu Street.
- Taxi or Grab: Use a ride-hailing app like Grab for convenience. Just type “Hanoi Train Street” into the destination, and it’ll take you right there.
- Cyclo or Bike Tours: For a more immersive experience, you can book a cyclo or bike tour, many of which include Train Street on their itineraries.
What is the Hanoi Train Street Schedule?
The train schedule is key to planning your visit. Trains don’t pass frequently, so timing your arrival is essential if you want to catch the action.
Your best bet is to ask a cafe near for the train times as they to get the latest information. But at the time of writing this is the schedule:
Weekdays (Monday – Friday): 7pm, 7.45pm, 8.45pm, 9.30pm, 10pm
Weekends (Saturday and Sunday): 8.30am, 9.30am, 11.30am, 3.20pm, 4.30pm, 5.30pm, 6pm, 7.20pm, 7.45pm, 8.45pm, 9.15pm
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What Time to Arrive at Hanoi Train Street
Timing is everything when visiting Hanoi Train Street. With limited trains passing on weekdays, it can get quite crowded during those times. While weekends typically offer more chances to catch a train.
Since this is an active train track, you definitely don’t want to arrive just as the train is approaching!
I recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before the scheduled train time to secure a good spot and soak in the atmosphere. Grab a seat at one of the cafes, order a drink, and relax while you wait.
Although some people show up just five minutes before the train, this approach has its downsides. By then, the best cafe seats with prime views are likely taken.
Also, keep in mind that you’ll need to buy a drink or snack to sit in the cafe’s designated seating area. The servers tend to be busy and focused on attracting more customers, so if you arrive late, there’s a chance your drink might not even arrive before the train passes and you are stuck there after the train has passed!
To truly enjoy the experience, arrive early, order a coffee or a cold beer, and watch the lively chaos unfold around you as everyone prepares for the train’s arrival.
The anticipation is half the fun, and it’s a great way to take in the unique charm of Hanoi Train Street.
More Useful Links & Resources
🚁 Tours & Activities
Book your food tours, cooking classes, transport and more via the below activity booking platforms:
- GetYourGuide: great for things like cooking classes and private tours
- Ha Long Bay Cruise: the perfect overnight cruise experience in the beautiful Ha Long Bay
- Hanoi Cooking Class: this is the cooking class we took and highly recommend!
- Viator: use Viator to book tours and transport across the city
🧳 Bounce Luggage Storage
If you have a late flight out of Hanoi, or arrive early in the morning before check-in, Bounce is the perfect solution. Store your luggage safely at one of their locations you can find on the app and don’t delay your time exploring the city.
Is Hanoi Train Street Free?
The answer is both yes and no. It’s completely free to enter and walk around Hanoi Train Street, you won’t need to pay any kind of admission fee.
However, the only safe and practical way to watch the trains pass is from one of the cafes lining the tracks.
To sit in these cafes, you’ll need to buy something, which is how they operate.
Drinks and snacks here are slightly more expensive than other spots in Hanoi (understandably, given the unique location), but still very affordable. For just a dollar or two, you can grab a coke, coffee, or even a beer, making it an inexpensive and memorable experience.
So, while it’s technically free to visit, factor in the cost of a drink if you plan to stay and watch the train.
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Is it Legal to Visit Hanoi Train Street?
Hanoi Train Street is a working train track, not a designated tourist attraction.
In recent years, authorities have cracked down on visits due to safety concerns. Technically, standing directly on the tracks or within certain areas is not allowed.
However, many locals and cafes have found a workaround by hosting visitors within their properties, offering food and drinks while you wait for the train.
When a train is approaching, cafe staff will direct everyone to stand back for safety.
How to Stay Safe
Safety should be your top priority when visiting Hanoi Train Street. Here are a few top tips:
- Follow Local Guidance: Listen to the instructions from cafe owners or locals. They know the train schedule and how to keep visitors safe.
- Do not move the chairs: The cafe owners know exactly where is safe to sit and where isn’t. The chairs are put in a certain place for a reason, don’t pivot them or rearrange them. As the train comes so close to the cafes, these seats are put in those spots for a reason.
- Stand Back: Keep a safe distance from the tracks when the train is approaching.
- Be Mindful: Respect the space as this is a residential area. Avoid blocking doorways or disrupting local life for the sake of photos.
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How to Get the Best Photo of Hanoi Train Street
Hanoi Train Street is incredibly photogenic, but capturing the perfect shot can be tricky. Here’s how to get it right:
1. The Street
You will 100% want to get a video/photo as the train comes past, but walking on the railway line on the street itself is a great picture spot.
Arrive early to make sure you get this, or hang around after the train has passed and the crowds depart.
2. Pick the Right Spot
Grab a seat at a cafe for a unique angle, or position yourself slightly away from the busiest areas to avoid crowds in your frame.
3. Consider the Lighting
Visit early in the morning for softer lighting or during golden hour for a warmer glow.
4. Include the Train
The train is the star of the show, so time your photo to capture it moving through the alley.
5. Use a Wide Lens
A wide-angle lens helps capture the narrow alley and its bustling atmosphere.
6. Be Patient
It might take a few tries to get the perfect shot, especially during peak times.
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Here Are My Top Tips for Visiting Hanoi Train Street
Hanoi Visiting Hanoi Train Street is an adventure in itself, and a little planning can make it even more enjoyable.
Here’s how to make the most of your visit:
Know the Train Schedule and Arrive Early
Timing is crucial. Check the train schedule ahead of time (ask locals or your accommodation for up-to-date times) and plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early.
This gives you enough time to find a good spot, order a drink, and settle in without feeling rushed.
Ignore the Cafe Hawkers (Politely)
As soon as you arrive, you’ll likely be bombarded by cafe staff trying to guide you to their seating areas.
While they mean well, my advice is to politely decline and walk down the track until you find a spot that feels right to you.
This way, you can choose the cafe with the best angle for photos or the vibe that suits you.
Pick a Good Seat and Angle
Once you’ve chosen your cafe, grab a prime seat with a good view of the tracks.
Consider where the train will come from. Don’t hesitate to ask your server for this information, as it can help you position yourself for the perfect shot.
Order a Drink and Relax
To stay in the cafe, you’ll need to order something, so pick a drink (coffee, coke, or even a beer) and take your time soaking in the atmosphere.
This is part of the experience, so enjoy the chaos of the street as you wait for the train.
Visit Both Day and Night (If Possible)
If your schedule allows, I highly recommend visiting both during the day and at night to capture the full charm of Hanoi Train Street.
Daytime offers vibrant lighting and a bustling vibe, while nighttime adds an atmospheric glow with lights from cafes and passing trains.
If you only have time for one visit, prioritize the day for better visibility and photos.
Explore Both Locations
For those with extra time, consider checking out both the popular spot at Tran Phu Street and the quieter section on Kham Thien Street.
Each offers a different perspective on this unique slice of Hanoi life.
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Why You Should Visit Hanoi Train Street
Despite the safety concerns and restrictions, Hanoi Train Street remains a fascinating blend of urban life and tourism.
It’s a chance to see how locals live and adapt to their surroundings, as well as enjoy a uniquely Hanoi experience.
Plus, the cafes along the track are charming and often serve excellent Vietnamese coffee or cold beers.
What to Do in Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi Train Street is an unforgettable experience that combines culture, adrenaline, and incredible photo opportunities.
While it may take a bit of planning and patience, the thrill of watching a train rumble past just a few feet away makes it all worthwhile.
Remember to stay respectful, follow safety guidelines, and take your time to soak in this one-of-a-kind destination.
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