Discover the best things to do on Hanoi’s Train Street (Phố Đường Tàu) in Hoan Kiem Ward! Explore train-watching, coffee, local life, safety tips, costs, and eco-friendly tours with Legend Travel Group. Book now!
Capture the thrilling energy of Phố Đường Tàu’s cultural gem (Source: Internet)Phố Đường Tàu, Hanoi’s iconic Train Street, is a cultural hotspot in Hoan Kiem Ward where trains pass mere inches from bustling cafes, colorful homes, and local shops, offering travelers a thrilling and immersive experience. This 600-meter railway, built by French colonizers in 1902, weaves through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, connecting Hanoi Railway Station to Long Biên Bridge. With no entry fee, visitors can engage in top activities like sipping Vietnamese coffee ($0.80–$2 or 20,000–50,000 VND), capturing stunning photos, exploring local life, and buying eco-friendly souvenirs like conical hats ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND). The street’s vibrant community, with locals cooking, chatting, and clearing belongings for 4–6 daily trains, creates a dynamic, photogenic scene.
From savoring cà phê trứng (egg coffee) to wandering among pastel-hued buildings, Train Street’s activities showcase Hanoi’s resilience and charm. Cafes use reusable cups, and artisans sell sustainable crafts, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Safety restrictions since 2019 require visitors to stay in cafes during train passages, making guided experiences valuable. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly cultural tours offer curated activities, ensuring a safe, sustainable visit. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward, Ba Đình District now Ba Đình Ward, and Đống Đa District now Đống Đa Ward under Hanoi City’s administration. This ensures accurate navigation to Train Street using ward-based maps.
Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly cultural tours in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem and Ba Đình Wards, tailored for travelers seeking authentic experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like cyclos, led by English-speaking guides who share Train Street’s history, safety protocols, and activity recommendations, ensuring a secure, enriching adventure. Supporting local vendors, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and experience Train Street responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews
Photograph the authentic allure of Phố Đường Tàu’s lifestyle (Source: Internet)Phố Đường Tàu, Hanoi’s Train Street, is a 600-meter railway alley in Hoan Kiem Ward, primarily along Trần Phú, Phùng Hưng, and Lê Duẩn streets. Constructed in 1902, this active rail line sees locals harmoniously coexist with passing trains, clearing stools and motorbikes as horns blare. Below are the top 10 activities, blending cultural immersion, photography, and sustainable practices, with updated train schedules and safety tips:
Photograph trains passing inches from cafes at 3:20 PM or 7:50 PM, a 15–30-minute activity perfect for Instagram-worthy shots. The street’s colorful houses and bustling locals create a cinematic backdrop. Use a smartphone or DSLR for vibrant daylight (dry season, November–April) or evening light (rainy season, May–October).
Cost: Free; optional cafe drink $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 VND).
Hours: Align with train schedule (see below).
Eco-Friendly Note: Share digital photos to reduce waste.
Tip: Stand safely in cafes; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Enjoy cà phê sữa đá or cà phê trứng in reusable cups at cafes like Hanoi 1990s, watching trains at 7:50 PM. This 15–30-minute ritual immerses you in Hanoi’s coffee culture, with locals sipping alongside.
Cost: $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 VND); snacks $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Hours: Cafes open 7:00 AM–11:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable cups; local beans.
Tip: Try egg coffee at Hanoi 1990s; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Wander Phùng Hưng’s alleys to observe locals cooking, playing chess, or selling snacks like sunflower seeds ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), a 30–60-minute activity best at 4:00 PM. Engage respectfully to learn about their harmonious coexistence with trains.
Cost: Free; optional purchases $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Hours: Daytime for vibrant scenes.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support local vendors.
Tip: Avoid train times; included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).
Buy handmade conical hats or áo dài at Phùng Hưng’s artisan shops, a 30–60-minute activity post-5:30 PM trains, supporting local craftspeople.
Cost: $5–$20 (125,000–500,000 VND).
Hours: Shops open 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Sustainable crafts; reusable bags.
Tip: Bargain politely; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Sample bánh mì chay or phở chay at stalls near Train Street, a 30–60-minute activity at 12:00 PM, complementing train-watching.
Cost: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) per dish.
Hours: Stalls open 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Biodegradable packaging; local vendors.
Top Spot: Vegan Banh Mi (11 Phung Hung, Hoan Kiem Ward).
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).
Embark on a 2–3-hour eco-friendly tour via cyclos, visiting cafes for a 3:20 PM train, learning local history and safety protocols.
Cost: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) per person.
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Low-impact transport; supports locals.
Tip: Includes English-speaking guide; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Walk 200 meters along Phùng Hưng’s mural-lined arches, a 30–60-minute low-impact activity at 5:00 PM post-6:00 PM train, showcasing Hanoi’s art.
Cost: Free.
Hours: Open access.
Eco-Friendly Note: Pedestrian-friendly; supports local culture.
Tip: Best at dusk; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Visit Hoa Xa Cafe at Long Biên Station for a 9:20 AM train, a 15–30-minute safer alternative to Phùng Hưng’s crowds, offering a serene view through glass windows.
Cost: $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND); snacks $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable cups; local tea.
Tip: Less crowded; included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).
Join a cafe talk or tour to learn about Train Street’s 1902 French colonial origins, a 30–60-minute activity during quieter 11:45 AM trains, enriching your visit.
Cost: Free with cafe purchase ($0.80–$2 or 20,000–50,000 VND).
Hours: Cafes open 7:00 AM–11:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local storytellers.
Tip: Ask staff at Railway Cafe; included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).
Unwind at Coffee Waitrans 74 for a 7:50 PM train, a 15–30-minute activity with glowing cafe lights, perfect for soaking in Train Street’s nightlife.
Cost: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); snacks $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable cups; local beans.
Tip: Book via WhatsApp (+84 81 212 4488); included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Trains pass 4–6 times daily, with schedules varying slightly. Below is the typical timetable, based on local cafe updates:
Monday–Friday: 8:50 AM, 9:20 AM, 11:45 AM, 3:20 PM, 7:50 PM, 9:15 PM, 9:30 PM, 10:00 PM.
Weekends: Adds 6:00 AM, 7:15 AM, 5:30 PM–6:20 PM.
Notes:
Trains may run 10–20 minutes early or late; confirm with cafe staff (e.g., Hanoi 1990s: +84 934 050 191).
Maintenance may skip trains; check via WhatsApp or tours.
Arrive 30 minutes early for prime cafe seats.
Safety Tips:
Stay in Cafes: Remain inside during train passages; avoid tracks or photos near moving trains, as they cannot stop quickly.
Follow Cafe Rules: Owners enforce yellow safety lines; move stools when alarms sound.
Respect Residents: Avoid entering homes or photographing without permission.
Check Restrictions: Phùng Hưng has barriers at Tran Phu; access via cafes or tours. Lê Duẩn or Long Biên Station are safer alternatives.
Supervise Children: Keep close supervision, as tracks are narrow.
Experience Hanoi Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)Train Street in Hoan Kiem Ward is accessible in 10–15 minutes from central Hanoi, while Lê Duẩn or Long Biên spots take 20–25 minutes, using sustainable options:
By Bus: Routes 01, 03A, 08B, or 11 to Hoan Kiem spots (10–15 min, $0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND); Routes 03 or 08 to Lê Duẩn/Long Biên (20–25 min, $0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND). Walk 5–10 minutes. Buses run every 10–20 minutes from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
By Cyclo or Electric Cart: From Hoan Kiem Lake, hire a cyclo to Hoan Kiem spots (5–10 min, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) or Lê Duẩn/Long Biên (20 min, $4–$7 or 100,000–175,000 VND).
By Bicycle or Walking: Rent a bicycle in Hoan Kiem Ward ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND) or walk 10 minutes to Hoan Kiem spots. Cycling to Lê Duẩn/Long Biên takes 20–25 minutes.
By Taxi or Grab: To Hoan Kiem spots, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way; to Lê Duẩn/Long Biên, $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND) one-way. Round-trip: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND) for Hoan Kiem, $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND) for others. Prestigious taxis: Mai Linh (0438,222,666), Hanoi Taxi (0438,535,353).
By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): Book a private car ($30–$50 or 750,000–1,250,000 VND round-trip for up to 4 people) for eco-friendly travel with stopovers.
By Air (to Hanoi): Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), 25 km away. Round-trip flights: Ho Chi Minh City ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND), Da Nang ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), international (e.g., Bangkok, $200–$600). Airport Bus No. 86 to Hoan Kiem Ward ($1.40 or 35,000 VND); taxi/Grab to Hoan Kiem ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND).Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses (e.g., “5 Trần Phú, Hoan Kiem Ward”). English-speaking guides simplify access.
Pack these essentials for a sustainable, comfortable visit:
Clothing: Lightweight, casual outfits for cultural respect; comfortable shoes for narrow alleys. Waterproof jackets for rainy season.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.
Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps (Maps.me), portable charger.
Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw to minimize waste.
Extras: Notebook for activity notes; cash, as most cafes are cash-only. Tip: Carry small VND notes for quick payments; use reusable cups at cafes.
Start your Hanoi Travel with lively street vibes (Source: Internet)Food and Drink Fees
Vietnamese Coffee/Trà Đá: $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 VND); specialty (egg, coconut) $1.50–$2.50 (37,500–62,500 VND).
Snacks (e.g., peanuts, sunflower seeds): $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Guided Cultural Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Souvenirs (e.g., conical hats, áo dài): $5–$20 (125,000–500,000 VND).
Street Food (e.g., bánh mì chay): $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Ngoc Son Temple (Hoan Kiem): $1.20 (30,000 VND).
Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)
Bus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).
Cyclo/Electric Cart: $4–$10 (100,000–250,000 VND) for Hoan Kiem; $8–$14 (200,000–350,000 VND) for Lê Duẩn/Long Biên.
Bicycle: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Walking (Hoan Kiem): Free.
Taxi/Grab: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND) for Hoan Kiem; $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND) for Lê Duẩn/Long Biên.
Private Car: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).
Airport Bus No. 86 + Taxi: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).
Accommodation (Per Night, Double Occupancy)
Homestays: $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND).
Hotels: $30–$80 (750,000–2,000,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $10–$25 (bus, coffee, homestay).
Mid-range: $35–$55 (cyclo, cultural tour, hotel).
Luxury: $75–$110 (private car, premium hotel). Tip: Book early for Tet or dry season; carry VND for small purchases.
Choose Your Timing: Dry season (November–April) for clear photography and outdoor activities; rainy season (May–October) for fewer crowds but bring waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Target 3:20 PM or 7:50 PM for trains.
Book in Advance: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s cultural tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons to secure spots and train schedules.
Sustainability: Walk or use cyclos ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) in Hoan Kiem to reduce emissions; choose cafes with reusable cups. Buy local snacks ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND) or souvenirs to support vendors.
Navigation: Pin addresses (e.g., “5 Trần Phú, Hoan Kiem Ward”) on Maps.me. Confirm train times via cafe WhatsApp or tour guides.
Safety: Stay in cafes during train passages; avoid tracks. Follow cafe staff and respect residents’ privacy. Check restrictions via cafe contacts or tours.
Weather Considerations: Dry season for optimal activities; rainy season requires umbrellas. Check AccuWeather for updates.
Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); engage locals respectfully. Tip cafe staff $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND). Avoid blocking alleys.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent.
Coffee Shop at Train Street - Pho Duong Tau Hanoi (Source: Internet)Our sustainable tours showcase Train Street’s top activities:
Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo ride to Hanoi 1990s for a 7:50 PM train, coffee tasting, Phùng Hưng Mural Street visit, and street food sampling. Includes English-speaking guide, cyclo, and schedule updates.
Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Train Street for a 3:20 PM train, local life exploration, vegan cooking class, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide, and activity coordination.
Hanoi & Son Tay Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Train Street for multiple activities, Son Tay Citadel, Ba Vi National Park, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers, and schedule confirmations. Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Enjoy 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links around this page! TripAdvisor Reviews
Phố Đường Tàu, Hanoi’s Train Street, is a cultural treasure in Hoan Kiem Ward, offering unforgettable activities like photographing trains, sipping coffee, and exploring local life along its 600-meter tracks. For $0.80–$2, you can immerse in eco-friendly cafes like Hanoi 1990s, capturing Phố Đường Tàu’s vibrant soul. With sustainable practices, reusable cups, and local crafts, it’s a responsible adventure. Despite safety restrictions, Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours ensure a curated, timed experience, blending photography, cuisine, and community immersion, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel journey. Whether chasing trains at 7:50 PM or wandering Phùng Hưng’s alleys, Phố Đường Tàu promises a thrilling Hanoi journey. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your adventure today!
Ready to experience the best of Phố Đường Tàu? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural journey!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys to ensure authenticity and copyright.
Favorite experiences booked by travelers
