If you have ever looked at things to do in Vietnam, Hanoi will come up followed by Train Street, which is exactly what you might imagine. A train track runs directly through town, and the locals have made good use of the space on both sides of the track by setting up shops, restaurants, and pubs. It feels like a regular street, except that a train passes through occasionally, allowing you to get very close to it if you choose. This is a unique experience not often seen in the United States, so Mark and I were eager to check it out.

The train schedule is Monday through Friday: 7:00 p.m., 7:45 p.m., 8:30 p.m., and 10:00 p.m.; and Saturday through Sunday: 6:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 11:20 a.m., 3:20 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 6:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., 7:45 p.m., 8:30 p.m., 9:00 p.m., and 11:00 p.m.

Although this is the standard schedule, there can be delays or cancellations if the train isn’t needed. We visited on a weekday and were lucky enough to catch a train at 3:45 p.m. If you want to know the current schedule, some shops display it for the day or you can ask one of the many locals.

Mark and I decided to sit, have a drink, and wait for the train to come through. It arrived right on time, and it was quite thrilling to be so close to it. The locals weren’t bothered at all. If you’re concerned about sitting too close, rest assured the staff will inform you a minute before the train arrives so you can move out of the way. Just keep an eye out and stay aware.

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