Hanoi train station is the largest and biggest railway station in Northern Vietnam, witnessing a historical era filled with the city. This place becomes a charming destination for travelers looking to experience the best things to do in Hanoi.

Hanoi train station

• Location: No. 120 Le Duan Street, Cua Nam Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.

Hanoi train station was opened in 1902, located about 2km away from Hanoi's Old Quarter area. Nowadays, the station is managed by the Vietnam Railways Corporation. This railway station has an area of 216.000m2 total, with 105,00m2 of buildings, the rest of part being the station yard and railway tracks.  

Hanoi railway station

Hanoi railway station serves both freight and passenger transport. However, due to its central city location, it focuses on passenger services. The station divided of two main areas includes

• Zone A on Le Duan street, specializing of north - south routes
• Zone B on Tran Quy Cap station, serving northern provinces routes 

Two sections are situated in Hanoi city center. So, tourists can easily transfer from anywhere in the city. 

The main terminal building Part A has a variety of facilities than Part B. Part A consists of different sections, serving different departure gates with three downstairs and an arrival/departure gate upstairs. 

Enjoy green rice flakes leaf on the train

Ticket counters, toilets and shops are located in the lower level of the building, helping you to find it quickly and convenient when entering the main entrance of Hanoi Railway station. To receive the ticket train, you can buy ticket trains in advance at these ticket counters, accepted to pay US Dollars as well as VND.

History of Hanoi train station

Hanoi train station, known as Hang Co station, was designed by  the architecture of France, serving the Trans-Indochina and Trans-Asia railways. 

Hanoi train station was constructed in 1899 and was officially opened in 1902. The station initially served the Hanoi - Lang Son route. Then, the French expanded the Hanoi - Hai Phong route in 1903 and Hanoi - Lao Cai route in 1905. 

Until 1936, railway stations in Hanoi opened from Hanoi to Saigon over a distance of 1,700 kilometers. During the Vietnam War, in the 1940s, Hanoi railway station played a crucial role in transporting troops southward to fight against the French. 

Two blue-and-red trains parked side by side on railway tracks.

In 1972, the bombing raids against Hanoi during 12 days led to devastation of its main hall. Afterwards, the local authority decided to re-build in a different style. 

Hanoi train station is a historical proof about the development of Hanoi  through 3 centuries, the growth with its expanding infrastructure. 

How do you check in at Hanoi train station?

You can buy a ticket at the counter or via the Vietnam Railways website by mobile app or hotline 1900 636 212. 

• If you are the first time passengers to Hanoi train station, you need to follow check-in procedure below:
• Getting to the station, if you don't have a ticket, you should go to the ticket counter to buy tickets. If you purchased tickets online, transferring to the check in area. 
• Presenting their  identification documents ( ID card, passport or residency permit) to the staff verify. The information matched, you will receive the boarding pass.
• You need to get to the station at least 30 minutes to check procedures and board the train. 

Tips for going to Hanoi train station

• Should bring a limit 20kg for carry-on and avoid some prohibited items such as explosives, flammable materials, or sharp objects.
• Arrive at the station soon at least 30 minutes before departure 
• Arrange your luggage and bags neatly
• Update the train schedules to avoid the change time due to bad weather conditions.
• Adhere to the station's regulations

Hanoi train station stands as a grand symbol of the capital, deeply embedded in the hearts of Hanoi people. If you are planning to go to Hanoi, don't forget to visit the unique Hanoi Railway Station. 

>>> See more: Vietnam National Museum of History in Hanoi: Travel Guide