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

A Thrilling Cultural Experience

Phố Đường Tàu, or Hanoi’s Train Street, is a captivating attraction in Hoan Kiem Ward where trains pass mere inches from colorful homes, bustling cafes, and vibrant shops, offering travelers an unforgettable cultural adventure. This 600-meter railway, built by French colonizers in 1902, cuts through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, showcasing the resilience and vibrancy of Hanoian life. For no entry fee, visitors can sip Vietnamese coffee ($0.80–$2 or 20,000–50,000 VND) at trackside cafes, buy eco-friendly souvenirs like conical hats ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND), and witness locals cooking, chatting, or playing chess, only pausing to clear their belongings for 4–6 daily train passages. The street’s weathered, pastel-hued buildings create a watercolor-like backdrop, perfect for photographers and culture enthusiasts.

Train Street’s allure lies in its blend of everyday life and thrilling train encounters, with locals moving stools and motorbikes as horns blare. Cafes use reusable cups, and vendors sell sustainable crafts, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Despite safety restrictions since 2019, the street remains accessible through cafes, making it a must-visit for immersive experiences. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly cultural tours guide travelers to Hanoi’s Train Street, ensuring a safe, sustainable visit. 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 via updated ward-based navigation.

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, safety protocols, and cultural insights, 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 visit 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, stretching 600 meters from Hanoi Railway Station to Long Biên Bridge. Constructed in 1902 by French colonizers, this active rail line serves 4–6 daily passenger and freight trains, passing through residential alleys where homes, cafes, and shops hug the tracks. The Phùng Hưng section is the liveliest, lined with cafes, while Lê Duẩn offers a quieter experience. Locals live seamlessly alongside the railway, selling snacks like sunflower seeds ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) or crafting souvenirs like áo dài ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND).

Visitors can engage with this vibrant community by enjoying coffee or trà đá ($0.80–$2 or 20,000–50,000 VND) in eco-friendly reusable cups, capturing photos of the colorful alley, or tasting vegan street food like bánh mì chay ($1 or 25,000 VND). Safety measures, enforced since 2019 due to overcrowding, mandate staying in cafes during train passages, monitored by local guards. Available 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 offers a thrilling yet safe cultural experience with proper navigation.

Below are the top 10 spots to experience Train Street in Hoan Kiem Ward, selected for their accessibility, cultural vibrancy, eco-friendly practices, and recent reviews:

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

A cozy Lê Duẩn cafe offering prime train views, serving cà phê trứng in reusable cups. Ideal for 7:00 PM trains, 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: WhatsApp (+84 934 050 191) 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.

• 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 vibrant Phùng Hưng cafe offering cà phê dừa in eco-friendly cups, ideal 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: 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 decor, serving cà phê sữa đá in reusable cups. Great for 5:30 PM weekend 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 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, serving cà phê đen through glass windows. Ideal for 9:20 AM 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–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 relaxed Lê Duẩn cafe 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: WhatsApp (+84 856 699 791) for updates; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

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

A quiet Lê Duẩn spot serving cà phê sữa đá in reusable cups, ideal for 3:30 PM trains.

• 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: Less touristy; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

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

A lively Phùng Hưng cafe 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 seats; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

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 (e.g., Hanoi 1990s: +84 934 050 191). Maintenance may skip some trains.

Safety Tips:

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

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

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

• Check Restrictions: Phùng Hưng has barriers at Tran Phu; access via cafes or guided tours. Lê Duẩn or Long Biên Station are safer alternatives.

• Supervise Children: Keep close supervision, as tracks are narrow and trains pass closely.

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 via cyclos, learning local history at 3:30 PM.

• 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 Sustainable Souvenirs

Buy conical hats or áo dài at Phùng Hưng’s artisan shops, 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 artisans; reusable bags.

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

4. Taste Vegan Street Food

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

• Cost: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) per dish.

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.

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

• Top Spot: Vegan Banh Mi (11 Phung Hung, Hoan Kiem Ward).

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

5. Stroll 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.

• 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 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 from our tours simplify access, especially with restrictions.

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 Visit

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 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 WhatsApp 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, vegan cooking class, 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

Phố Đường Tàu (Train Street), Hanoi’s cultural gem in Hoan Kiem Ward, captivates where trains weave through vibrant alleys, inches from cafes and homes. For $0.80–$2, sip coffee at iconic spots like Hanoi 1990s or Railway Cafe, capturing the thrill of passing trains and authentic Hanoian life. With eco-friendly practices like reusable cups and local crafts, this 600-meter stretch offers a sustainable adventure. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours ensure a secure, immersive visit to Train Street, guiding you to its finest moments for a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience. Whether exploring Phùng Hưng’s bustle or Lê Duẩn’s calm, Train Street promises an unforgettable taste of Hanoi’s soul. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your adventure today!
Ready to visit Hanoi’s iconic Train Street? 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, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.