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Located along the railway tracks intersecting Điện Biên, Cửa Nam, and Hàng Bông wards, Hanoi’s Train Street Café is a one-of-a-kind experience that blends daily life with thrilling railway moments. Famous for its stretches on Trần Phú, Phùng Hưng, and Lê Duẩn streets, this iconic site has become a must-visit check-in spot for tourists in Hanoi — especially during the hours when trains pass through.
lthough temporarily shut down in 2019 for safety concerns, the area continues to attract curious travelers, drawn by the thrilling moments when trains roll by just one meter away from your seat.
A Vibrant Street Lined with Local Cafés
What makes Train Street special is the way local residents have turned their homes into cozy cafés, offering coffee, tea, and light snacks. By day, it’s charming; by night, it glows with colorful lights, creating a warm and unforgettable ambiance.
Each time a train approaches, you’ll witness the buzz of excitement. Locals and visitors alike pull out their cameras, hold their breath — and then watch in awe as a train passes by at arm’s length. This surreal scene has earned global media coverage and made Train Street a social media sensation.
Important Note: Due to its inherent risks, Train Street is often patrolled, with signs reminding visitors to stay safe. Café owners are also quick to alert guests and clear the tracks when trains are about to pass.
It can be said that Hanoi’s Train Street Café is a uniquely distinctive feature of the capital
Useful Tips for Visiting Hanoi’s Train Street
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit is between 11 AM–12 PM and 3 PM–7 PM, when trains frequently pass by. On average, you can witness between 7–10 trains daily, and even more on weekends or holidays.
Lower levels of the cafés are often packed — they offer the best view of the trains, though you’ll need to squeeze in among other excited visitors.
How to Get There
Here are a few ways to reach Train Street:
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Motorbike: The most flexible option, especially for navigating Hanoi’s narrow streets.
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Bus: PHM Travel recommends taking bus lines 19, 36, 38, or 39, and getting off near Phùng Hưng or the Hanoi Opera House. From there, it’s just a short walk to Train Street.
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Taxi/Grab: A great option if you’re traveling in a group or want a stress-free ride directly to the location.
Top Train Street Cafés to Check Out
30 Train Coffee
📍 30 Phùng Hưng Street, Hoàn Kiếm District
30 Train Coffee captivates visitors with its elegant, vintage-inspired space, featuring interior decor reminiscent of traditional Northern Vietnamese countryside homes. This unique concept attracts countless tourists and young locals alike. In addition to its prime location right beside the railway tracks, it is considered one of the most spacious and elaborately decorated cafés along the Phùng Hưng Train Street.
Coffee Waitrans 74
📍 Cửa Đông Ward, Hoàn Kiếm District
Nicknamed “a little corner of Hanoi,” this café stands out with its warm yellow tones and friendly atmosphere. Despite its compact size, it offers stunning photo spots right by the rails.
Spot 09 Cafe
📍 74A Trần Phú Street, Hoàn Kiếm District
Loved by young locals and tourists, Spot 09 has a clean, modern design and is known for its signature drinks like milk coffee and “bạc xỉu.” Come for the coffee, stay for the adrenaline.
Hảo Hảo Coffee
📍 80 Chắn 5 Trần Phú, Hoàn Kiếm District
Combining youthfulness with a vintage twist, Hảo Hảo Coffee features a spacious layout and full frontal views of the railway. It’s cozy, photogenic, and highly rated by return visitors.
Cafe Sân Ga 62
📍 62 Phùng Hưng Street, Hoàn Kiếm District
With its train-station-inspired theme, affordable menu, and welcoming decor, this café is a great stop to watch the train rush by — up close and personal.
Safety Tips for a Fun and Secure Visit
Since these cafés are incredibly close to the tracks (sometimes as little as 40 cm away), please keep these safety tips in mind:
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Stay Off the Tracks: Never sit, stand, or pose on the tracks when a train is approaching.
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Listen and Watch Carefully: Pay attention to train horns and staff announcements. If you’re with kids, keep them close and away from the rails.
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Maintain a Safe Distance: As soon as there’s an alert for an incoming train, step inside the cafés or designated safe zones. Never touch or lean on a moving train.
Conclusion
Hanoi’s Train Street is more than just a place to enjoy coffee — it’s a cultural symbol that blends local daily life, vintage charm, and the thrill of passing trains into one unforgettable experience. With standout cafés like 30 Train Coffee, known for its spacious layout and classic Northern decor, visitors are guaranteed a unique setting unlike anywhere else. Whether you’re a curious traveler or a photography enthusiast, Train Street offers a must-visit glimpse into the heart and soul of Hanoi.
