The Train Street in Hanoi

The Train Street in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

This popular street is located in the center of Hanoi, specifically here. You are not allowed to walk on the street freely, there is a security guard and a couple of assistants from the bars of the street that won’t let you enter unless you have a drink in one of their locals. Then, they will kindly guide you to the terrace of the bar. If you just go in and take a picture, you might be chased away with hostility.

The street is quieter than the city itself but you can still see a steady stream of tourists looking for the perfect photo. The decoration of the bars is very artistic and picturesque, as it is the whole street especially at night. The bars offer a wide range of original coffees/smoothies and homemade food, but the price is a bit higher than other cafes of Hanoi. Once you are having your drink/food the bar assistants are very friendly and you can have interesting conversations with them.

The train only works 3-5 times per day. “Railway cafe” bar has the schedule on the terrace and you can also ask them on instagram (railway cafe). Bear in mind that the schedule is not very reliable. Once the train is coming you have to get really inside of the terrace as the street has no extra space. The train does NOT stop on this street. If you are not careful it can be dangerous.

There are some other streets with the train tracks nearby without prohibitions, so you can walk freely along these street if a train is not about to come. As opposed to the main street, they are completely empty.

It’s the most touristy spot in Hanoi. Forget about this place if you just want to take a picture as the atmosphere will be hostile. If you want to have a drink/snack it’s nice.