Hanoi Train Street Guide: Phố Đường Tàu Experience & Eco Tours

A Thrilling Glimpse into Hanoian Life

Phố Đường Tàu, known as Hanoi’s Train Street, is a captivating attraction in Hoan Kiem Ward where trains pass just inches from homes, cafes, and shops, offering travelers a unique blend of adrenaline and cultural immersion. Stretching through narrow alleys in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, this 600-meter railway track, built by French colonizers in 1902, is a living testament to the city’s resilience and adaptability. For no entry fee, visitors can sip Vietnamese coffee ($0.80–$2 or 20,000–50,000 VND) at trackside cafes, watch locals clear their belongings as trains approach, and capture stunning photos of this vibrant microcosm. The street’s colorful, weathered buildings and bustling community create a watercolor-like scene, perfect for experiencing Hanoi’s daily rhythm.

Hanoi Train Street’s allure lies in its authenticity—residents play chess, sell snacks, and chat while trains rumble through 4–6 times daily. Cafes use eco-friendly reusable cups, and local vendors offer handmade souvenirs like conical hats ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND), aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Despite safety-driven restrictions, the street remains accessible via cafes, making it a must-visit for photographers and culture enthusiasts. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly cultural tours guide travelers to Hanoi’s Train Street, ensuring a safe, sustainable experience. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

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 streamlines access to Train Street and other attractions via sustainable infrastructure.

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 and electric carts, led by English-speaking guides who share Train Street’s history and safety protocols, 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 explore Train Street responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews

Phố Đường Tàu, or Hanoi Train Street, is a narrow railway alley in Hoan Kiem Ward’s Old Quarter, primarily along Trần Phú, Phùng Hưng, and Lê Duẩn streets, connecting Hanoi Railway Station to Long Biên Bridge. Constructed in 1902 by French colonizers, this active rail line serves passenger and freight trains, passing through residential areas where homes and cafes hug the tracks. The street spans roughly 600 meters, with key sections like Phùng Hưng (lively, cafe-lined) and Lê Duẩn (quieter, less crowded). Trains pass 4–6 times daily, creating a thrilling spectacle as locals swiftly clear stools and goods.

Visitors enjoy Vietnamese coffee or trà đá (iced tea) for $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 VND) at eco-conscious cafes, often in reusable cups, while soaking in the street’s vibrant atmosphere. Local life thrives here—vendors sell snacks like sunflower seeds ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), and artisans offer souvenirs like áo dài ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND). Safety restrictions, enforced since 2019 due to overcrowding incidents, require visitors to stay in cafes during train passages, monitored by local authorities. Available year-round in Hanoi’s tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), Train Street is a cultural gem, blending history, community, and adventure.

Hanoi’s Train Street and nearby areas in Hoan Kiem and Ba Đình Wards offer prime spots to view trains and enjoy local life. Below are the top 10 locations, selected for their accessibility, atmosphere, eco-friendly practices, and recent reviews:

1. Hanoi 1990s Cafe (222 Lê Duẩn, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A top-rated cafe on the quieter Lê Duẩn section, offering train views with cà phê sữa đá and egg coffee in reusable cups. Ideal for 7:00 PM train passages, with a 4.7/5 rating.

• Cost: $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 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: Contact via WhatsApp (+84 904 557 373) for train times; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Railway Cafe (5 Trần Phú, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A Phùng Hưng staple with trackside seating, serving cà phê đen in reusable cups. Perfect for 3:30 PM trains, with a vibrant vibe.

• Cost: $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND); snacks $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable cups; local ingredients.

• Tip: WhatsApp (+84 917 301 111) to reserve; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

3. Coffee Waitrans 74 (74 Đường Tàu, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A lively Phùng Hưng cafe offering cà phê dừa in eco-friendly cups, ideal for 7:30 PM train views. Known for its colorful decor.

• 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: WhatsApp (+84 81 212 4488) for entry; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

4. 30 Train Coffee (159 Phùng Hưng, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A Phùng Hưng gem with nostalgic vibes, serving cà phê sữa đá in reusable cups. Great for weekend 5:30 PM trains.

• Cost: $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND); snacks $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable cups; local ingredients.

• Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

5. MER Cafe (48 Đường Tàu, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A Phùng Hưng cafe with 1990s decor, serving egg coffee in reusable cups. Ideal for 3:30 PM trains with upstairs views.

• 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: Sit upstairs for photos; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

6. Cafe Ga Đông Dương (5A Trần Phú, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A chic Phùng Hưng cafe with train-inspired decor, serving cà phê sữa đá in reusable cups. Perfect for 7:00 PM trains.

• Cost: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); snacks $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable cups; local ingredients.

• Tip: Book via cafe’s social media; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

7. Hoa Xa Cafe (Long Biên Station, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A serene alternative at Long Biên Station, offering cà phê đen through glass windows with train views. Ideal for 9:20 AM visits.

• 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).

8. Nam Vy Coffee (222 Lê Duẩn, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A Lê Duẩn cafe with relaxed vibes, serving cà phê dừa in eco-friendly cups. Great for 6:00 PM trains.

• 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: Contact cafe for train updates; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

9. Beo Coffee (194 Lê Duẩn, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A cozy Lê Duẩn spot offering cà phê sữa đá in reusable cups, ideal for 3:30 PM trains with fewer crowds.

• Cost: $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND); snacks $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable cups; local ingredients.

• Tip: Quiet alternative; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

10. Hảo Hảo Coffee (80 Đường Tàu, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A Phùng Hưng cafe with vibrant decor, serving egg coffee in reusable cups. Perfect for 7:30 PM trains.

• 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: Arrive early for front-row seats; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

Train Street Schedule and Safety Tips

Trains pass through Train Street 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 trains at 5:30 PM–6:20 PM, 6:00 AM, 7:15 AM.

• Note: Trains may run 10–20 minutes early or late; confirm with cafe staff. Some days, trains may not pass due to maintenance.

Safety Tips:

• Stay in Cafes: Remain inside cafes during train passages; do not stand on tracks or take photos near moving trains, as they cannot stop quickly.

• Follow Cafe Rules: Cafe owners and guards enforce safety lines; move stools and belongings when alarms sound.

• Respect Residents: Avoid entering homes or photographing without permission, as Train Street is a residential area.

• Check Restrictions: Authorities monitor Train Street due to safety concerns, with barricades at main entrances like Trần Phú. Access via cafes or guided tours to avoid issues.

• Alternative Spots: If Phùng Hưng is restricted, try Lê Duẩn or Long Biên Station for safer, less crowded views.

1. Sip Coffee at Trackside Cafes

Enjoy cà phê sữa đá at Hanoi 1990s or Railway Cafe for a 15–30-minute train-watching experience at 7:00 PM, using reusable cups.

• Cost: $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 VND); snacks $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Hours: Typically 7:00 AM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable cups; local beans.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Join a Sustainable Cultural Tour

Embark on a 2–3-hour eco-friendly tour to Train Street cafes, learning local history at 3:30 PM via cyclos.

• 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 local vendors.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).

3. Shop for Local Souvenirs

Visit Phùng Hưng’s artisan shops for conical hats or áo dài, a 30–60-minute low-impact activity at 4:00 PM.

• Cost: $5–$20 (125,000–500,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local artisans; reusable bags.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

4. Pair with Eco-Friendly Street Food

Sample phở or bánh mì near Train Street, a 30–60-minute sustainable experience at 12:00 PM.

• Cost: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per dish.

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports vendors; biodegradable packaging.

• Top Spots: Phở Thìn (13 Lò Sũ, Hoan Kiem Ward); Bánh Mì 25 (25 Hàng Cá, Hoan Kiem Ward).

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).

5. Explore Phùng Hưng Mural Street

Walk 200 meters along Phùng Hưng’s mural-lined arches, a 30–60-minute low-impact activity at 5:00 PM, showcasing Hanoi’s heritage.

• Cost: Free.

• Hours: Daily, open access.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Pedestrian-friendly; supports local culture.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

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 taxi companies include Mai Linh (0438,222,666) and 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 from our tours simplify navigation.

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 cultural notes; cash, as most cafes are cash-only. Tip: Carry small VND notes for quick payments; use reusable cups at cafes to support eco-practices.

Costs for Train Street Experience

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).

• Other Street Food (e.g., phở): $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 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 comfortable visits; rainy season (May–October) for fewer crowds but bring waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Aim for 3:30 PM or 7:30 PM for train passages.

• Book in Advance: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s cultural tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons to secure spots.

• 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: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses like “5 Trần Phú, Hoan Kiem Ward.” English-speaking guides simplify access, especially with restrictions.

• Safety: Stay in cafes during train passages; avoid tracks. Follow cafe staff and respect residents’ privacy. Check restrictions via cafe social media or tours.

• Weather Considerations: Dry season for clear views; rainy season requires umbrellas. Check AccuWeather for updates.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); engage locals with smiles. 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.

Our sustainable tours showcase Hanoi’s Train Street:

• Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo ride to Hanoi 1990s or Railway Cafe at 7:00 PM, coffee tasting, Phùng Hưng Mural Street visit. Includes English-speaking guide, cyclo.

• Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Train Street, Hoan Kiem Lake, coffee workshop, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Son Tay Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Train Street, Son Tay Citadel, Ba Vi National Park, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. 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

Hanoi Train Street, or Phố Đường Tàu, is a cultural marvel where trains weave through narrow alleys, inches from vibrant cafes and homes. For $0.80–$2, savor Vietnamese coffee at spots like Hanoi 1990s or Railway Cafe, capturing the thrill of passing trains and Hanoian life. With eco-friendly practices like reusable cups and local sourcing, this attraction blends affordability, authenticity, and sustainability. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours ensure a secure, immersive experience, guiding you to Train Street’s finest moments for a sustainable Hanoi Travel journey. Whether snapping photos on Phùng Hưng or exploring Lê Duẩn’s quiet charm, Hanoi Train Street promises an unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Hanoi Train Street journey today!
Ready to experience Hanoi’s iconic Train Street? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural adventure!

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, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.