Long Bien Bridge Hanoi
A historic French colonial railway bridge offering stunning views of the Red River and a unique chance to see trains in action.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Long Bien Bridge Hanoi
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic French colonial railway bridge offering stunning views of the Red River and a unique chance to see trains in action.
"Witness history and breathtaking sunsets on Hanoi's iconic Long Bien Bridge."
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture stunning shots of the bridge, trains, and river. Be mindful of traffic!
🚶♀️ Walk Safely
Watch out for traffic, especially motorbikes. Stay aware of your surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture
The entire bridge structure
Marvel at the enduring French colonial architecture of this iconic landmark, a testament to Hanoi's past.

Train Spotting
Active train tracks on the bridge
Witness trains rumble across the bridge, a unique and thrilling experience for all ages.

Sunset Views
Along the bridge, especially the western side
Capture breathtaking sunset vistas over the Red River, painting the sky with vibrant colors.

Mop Grass Fields
Dike areas near the bridge
During certain seasons, vibrant green mop grass fields offer a picturesque backdrop for photos.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating the Long Bien Bridge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture stunning shots of the bridge, trains, and river. Be mindful of traffic!
🚶♀️ Walk Safely
Watch out for traffic, especially motorbikes. Stay aware of your surroundings.
Hello! I’m travelling to Hanoi in two weeks and just read that the train street is closed. While that’s fine, where can I get a picture close to the train tracks or see the train pass? I do not want to get in trouble with the police.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
The bridge offers incredible sunset views over the Red River.
🚂 Train Schedule
Trains pass regularly; check local schedules for the best viewing times.
Should I live in Long Biên or somewhere else?
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture stunning shots of the bridge, trains, and river. Be mindful of traffic!
🚶♀️ Walk Safely
Watch out for traffic, especially motorbikes. Stay aware of your surroundings.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
The bridge offers incredible sunset views over the Red River.
🚂 Train Schedule
Trains pass regularly; check local schedules for the best viewing times.
🌿 Seasonal Beauty
Visit during mop grass season for unique photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Long Bien Bridge for its historical significance, architectural beauty, and the unique experience of watching trains cross. The sunset views are a major highlight, offering stunning photographic opportunities. However, some find the traffic on the bridge to be a significant hazard, and pedestrian facilities are minimal.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Long Bien Bridge by taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or local bus. It's located east of the Old Quarter. Many visitors find it a convenient spot to access from central Hanoi, with commutes often being less congested than within the city center.
Yes, Long Bien Bridge is easily accessible from the Old Quarter. You can walk across it or take a short taxi/Grab ride. The bridge connects the Old Quarter area to the Long Bien district.
For a scenic experience, consider walking or cycling across the bridge. Taxis and Grab are also readily available and offer a convenient way to reach the bridge, especially if you're short on time.
Several local bus routes pass by or near Long Bien Bridge. Checking local transport apps or asking your accommodation for the most current bus information is recommended.
Parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours. It's often easier to arrive by taxi, Grab, or public transport to avoid parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to walk or cycle across Long Bien Bridge. It's a public thoroughfare and a free attraction for visitors.
Long Bien Bridge is open 24/7 as it's a functional bridge. However, the best times to visit for sightseeing and photography are during daylight hours and sunset.
Trains cross Long Bien Bridge regularly throughout the day. While there isn't a fixed schedule easily available to tourists, you can often hear or see them passing by if you spend some time on the bridge.
The primary restriction is to be mindful of the ongoing traffic. Do not obstruct trains or vehicles. Stick to designated pedestrian areas where available.
You can access the pedestrian walkways and the main roadway. Be cautious of active train tracks and ensure you are not in the path of an oncoming train.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire length of the bridge offers great photo opportunities. Look for angles that capture the historic architecture, the Red River, and passing trains. The dike areas nearby also provide unique backdrops.
Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during the golden hour before sunset, offer the most beautiful light for photography. The bridge also has a unique charm at night with its lights.
Be patient for trains to pass, and always be aware of your surroundings. Experiment with different perspectives, from close-ups of the structure to wide shots of the cityscape.
Drone usage may be restricted in Hanoi, especially over active infrastructure like bridges. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the bridge, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating trains. A tripod can help with low-light photography.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You can walk or cycle across, enjoy the views of the Red River, watch trains pass, and take photos. It's also a popular spot for locals to relax and socialize.
Pedestrians should exercise caution due to ongoing traffic. Stick to the sides of the road and be aware of motorbikes and other vehicles.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Dress in light, breathable clothing, especially during warmer months. Sun protection like a hat and sunscreen is also recommended.
There are very limited facilities directly on the bridge itself. You'll find vendors selling snacks and drinks near the entrances and exits, particularly on the Long Bien district side.
Walking across the entire bridge can take about 20-30 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take photos or enjoy the views.
🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining
There are no formal restaurants on the bridge itself. However, you can find street food vendors and small eateries near the entrances and exits, particularly on the Long Bien district side.
Expect to find local Vietnamese street food, snacks, and drinks. Try some Banh Mi, Pho, or fresh fruit juices from the vendors.
Street food is a quintessential Hanoi experience. Many vendors are popular with locals, indicating freshness and quality. Use your judgment and choose busy stalls.
Yes, there are cafes along the Red River dike, particularly on the Long Bien district side, that offer great views of the bridge and the river.
The Long Bien district offers more affordable street food and local eateries compared to the central Old Quarter. Ngoc Lam street is known for its cheap and delicious street food.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Pack snacks and water, as facilities on the bridge are minimal. The nearby Long Bien district offers more accessible street food options that kids might enjoy. The mop grass fields can also be a fun, albeit temporary, natural playground.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Be prepared for active traffic and trains; safety is paramount. Explore different angles and perspectives. The Long Bien district side often offers great vantage points and a more local feel for your content.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Instead of eating in the tourist-heavy Old Quarter, head to streets like Ngoc Lam for incredibly affordable and delicious street food. This area provides an authentic culinary experience that won't break the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Long Bien Bridge
During your visit, take a moment to appreciate the distinctive architecture and the sheer scale of this engineering feat. The bridge's multiple spans and the remnants of its wartime damage tell a story of perseverance. It's a living piece of history that continues to serve the city's daily life, connecting the bustling Old Quarter with the quieter Long Bien district.
Many travelers find the bridge's historical significance adds a profound layer to their experience. It's not just a photo opportunity but a chance to connect with Hanoi's past and understand its evolution. The contrast between the old structure and the modern city skyline is particularly striking.
Capturing the Iconic Views: Photography on Long Bien Bridge
For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the golden hours – shortly after sunrise and before sunset. The soft, warm light enhances the bridge's textures and creates beautiful silhouettes. The mop grass fields that grow along the dike near the bridge, particularly during certain seasons, offer a unique and picturesque backdrop, as seen in many popular social media posts.
Remember to be mindful of traffic and trains while you're composing your shots. Safety should always be your top priority. Look for interesting angles, play with leading lines created by the bridge's structure, and capture the daily life unfolding around this iconic landmark.
Beyond the Bridge: Exploring the Long Bien District
One of the highlights of the Long Bien district is its vibrant street food scene. Streets like Ngoc Lam are famous for their delicious and inexpensive local delicacies. You can find everything from traditional Vietnamese dishes to fresh seafood and local snacks. Many travelers recommend exploring this area for a genuine taste of Hanoi without the tourist crowds.
Additionally, the Long Bien district provides excellent vantage points for viewing the bridge and the river. You can find cafes and local spots along the dike that offer stunning views, especially during sunset. It's a perfect area to unwind after exploring the bridge and immerse yourself in a more local atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit