Is Train Street Hanoi Worth It? A No-Nonsense Guide

Wondering whether Train Street Hanoi is worth a visit in 2024? Known for its narrow tracks running just inches from local homes and cafés, it’s one of the city’s most famous—yet controversial—tourist attractions. You’ve probably seen the photos of trains rushing past tourists seated at tiny tables, but there’s more to Train Street than just a photo op. It’s a fascinating blend of local life, culture, and a train schedule that stops for no one.

I spent a month in Hanoi during my time in Vietnam, and I was conflicted about visiting, tired of following Instagram recommendations that rarely live up to the hype. Naturally, I kept putting it off until my very last day, thinking I might as well check it out, if only to cross it off my list. And I am so glad I did! Despite concerns about overtourism and safety, Train Street continues to attract visitors from around the world. If you want to experience the real Train Street, here’s everything you need to know.

What Is Train Street in Hanoi?

Before Train Street became an Instagram sensation, it was simply part of daily life for the locals. The narrow street is lined with homes just inches from the century-old railway, and residents have always gone about their day—cooking, cleaning, kids playing—pausing only when the train rumbles through. For the families living here, this active railway is both a necessity and a disruption. The noise, dust, and constant smoke make life tough, but the train has always been part of the neighborhood’s rhythm.

The train tracks were originally built by the French in 1902 during their occupation of Vietnam, designed to transport goods and people between Hanoi and other provinces. As the city grew, buildings popped up around the railway, trapping the tracks in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Over time, what was once an essential part of daily transport has transformed into one of the city’s most iconic tourist attractions. Yet, for the locals, it remains a challenging reality—a stark contrast to the picturesque photos tourists snap for social media.

Train Street Location (And How To Get There)

Train Street Location (And How To Get There)

Train Street runs through two main sections of Hanoi—the popular Old Quarter and the quieter Le Duan area. The most well-known spot is in the Old Quarter, specifically between Phung Hung Street and Tran Phu Street, where the cafes and homes line the tracks, creating the iconic scenes you’ve probably seen online.

To get there, hop on a Grab bike or car, or walk from nearby landmarks like Hang Da Market for the Old Quarter section. For the Le Duan side, which offers a more authentic, less crowded vibe, head toward Kham Thien Street or use a Grab.

Here is the Google maps location for both entrances:
North Entrance 1 (Phung Hung Street)
North Entrance 2 (Tran Phu Street) 
South Entrance 1 (Kham Thien)
South Entrance 2 (Le Duan street)

Once you reach the railway track, expect to be approached by café owners inviting you in to watch the train. There are lots of “secret pathways” circulating online, but honestly, why take that route? People live here, and this is their home. If you’re going to stand in their backyard snapping photos, the least you can do is support their business by buying a drink.

The rule is simple: you’re only allowed on Train Street if you sit at one of the local cafes. This regulation exists to manage the flood of tourists and keep things safe for residents. Skirting the rules not only disrespects the people who live there but also contributes to the overtourism problem. Instead, choose a café, grab a coffee, and help out a local business—everyone wins.

Where to Watch the Train: Cafes and Viewing Spots

Old Quarter Section

The Old Quarter section of Train Street is the most iconic and popular among tourists. This stretch of track runs between Phung Hung and Tran Phu Street, and is filled with coffee shops offering front-row seats to the train passing just inches from the tables. Ga Dong Duang Cafe is probably the most famous spot, mentioned in every guide, but it can feel overcrowded and overly commercial. 28 Train Street is another well-known café, offering a similar experience with lots of tourists packed in for the perfect photo op.

One important thing to note is that this section has been barricaded for safety reasons and is frequently patrolled by security. You’re only allowed access if you’re a customer at one of the cafés. To get in, it’s best to message a café owner on WhatsApp, and they’ll escort you to their spot. This is the best-known part of Train Street, but it’s also busy and highly commercialized, so if you’re looking for something quieter, Le Duan may be a better option.

Le Duan Section

For a more relaxed and authentic experience, the Le Duan section of Train Street is perfect. Located just south of the Hanoi Train Station, this stretch runs parallel to Le Duan Street and is much quieter than the Old Quarter. Here, you won’t find barricades or security blocking your entry, and the café owners are far less pushy about getting you into their spots. It’s a peaceful alternative where you can freely walk onto the tracks from either end of the street.

One of the best cafes in this section is 65 Railway Coffee, located about halfway down the tracks. It’s a much more intimate experience, with far fewer tourists and a genuine sense of community. The café owners are incredibly friendly, and they often offer to take photos for you. The vibe here is much more laid-back, making it the ideal spot if you want to enjoy Train Street without the crowds and support a local business in the process.

Is It Safe to Visit Hanoi Train Street?

Let’s be real—it can be pretty terrifying. The train comes freakishly close, and if you’re like me, you might find yourself imagining all sorts of scenarios, like accidentally flailing an arm and… well, you get the idea. The truth is, Train Street can be dangerous if you’re not careful. There’s even a viral video of a woman standing on the tracks trying to take a photo as the train was approaching. Don’t be that person.

However, for the locals, this is everyday life. They’ve lived alongside this train for decades, safely navigating their routines. As long as you listen to the café owners and move when they tell you, you’ll be perfectly safe. The only danger comes from not paying attention or trying to get too close for a dramatic shot. Be mindful, and you’ll be just fine.

Is Train Street Hanoi Open in 2024?

Yes, Hanoi Train Street is open in 2024, but with some restrictions. The street has faced multiple closures since 2019 due to safety concerns, with authorities repeatedly trying to revoke business licenses and block access. After a tourist was hit by a passing train in 2022, the area was temporarily closed again. Now, the main entrance is guarded and blocked off.

However, you can still access Train Street by visiting one of the local cafés. Café owners will escort you onto the tracks, ensuring you follow the current rules while still supporting their businesses, which heavily rely on tourism.

Hanoi Train Street: Beyond the Photos

Instagram may make Hanoi Train Street look like a quirky, photogenic hotspot, but the reality is much different. The street is crowded with tourists, and locals, who have lived here since the railway was built by the French, are struggling with the invasion of their personal space. The environmental impact of overtourism is also noticeable—trash, noise, and pollution have increased significantly, which strains the locals and affects the atmosphere of this once-quiet neighborhood.

But for me, the experience was wild in its own way. Imagine sitting at a small café, beer in hand, as the owner casually places the can on the track. The train rushes past, flattening the can for a unique souvenir. In less than two minutes, everything resets. The chairs come back out, the street clears, and life goes back to normal as if nothing happened. It’s surreal and fascinating, but it’s also a reminder that this isn’t just a backdrop for photos. The people who live here deserve your respect, so visit with awareness and appreciation for their daily lives.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Train Street in Hanoi

So, is visiting Train Street Hanoi in 2024 worth it? Honestly, it depends. If you go during peak tourist times, the experience can feel a bit overcrowded and artificial, like any overhyped tourist attraction. The charm of the famous train street is harder to appreciate when it’s packed with people just looking for a quick photo op.

However, if you visit during the off-season or head to the quieter south side, it’s a completely different experience. When the street is less crowded, it feels far more authentic, and watching the train pass inches away becomes one of the coolest moments you can have in Hanoi. If you’re looking for something real and memorable, that’s the way to go.