Hanoi unveils a new cultural highlight for discerning travelers: the Hanoi cultural double-decker train. Debuted on August 19, 2025, this themed service celebrates the capital’s five historic city gates with panoramic carriages, dedicated photo coaches, and curated heritage performances. Public operations are slated for September 2025, adding a refined, story-driven rail experience to any Vietnam luxury tours.
Why ride the Hanoi cultural double-decker train
A moving museum: Ten cars with five themed passenger carriages evoke Old Hanoi through wood-accented interiors, soft lighting, and wide windows.
Designed for comfort and photos: Spacious 40–60 seats per carriage plus two photo carriages for “check-in” moments.
Culture onboard: Live Quan ho, Ca tru, Cheo, and Xam performances immerse guests in the North’s heritage during the ride.
Schedule, route, and seating
Start of service: September 2025
Daily departures: 08:00, 14:00, 20:30
Route: Hanoi Station → Long Bien → Gia Lam → Yen Vien → Tu Son (Bac Ninh) → return to Hanoi
Configuration: 10 cars total, including five double-decker passenger carriages themed after historic gates
Seating: 40–60 seats per themed carriage; panoramic windows in every coach
These details make the Hanoi cultural double-decker train easy to integrate into a half-day plan before or after city touring.
Quick reference
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch | Aug 19, 2025 (official unveiling) |
| Public operation | September 2025 |
| Departures | 08:00, 14:00, 20:30 |
| Route | Hanoi Station – Long Bien – Gia Lam – Yen Vien – Tu Son – Hanoi |
| Onboard | Live heritage performances; photo carriages; panoramic windows |
| Capacity | 40–60 seats per themed carriage |
Biometric ticketing elevates the experience
Hanoi Station now authenticates passengers via chip-based citizen ID at the gates, with VNeID digital ID integration planned. This streamlines boarding for premium travelers and aligns with global best practice in secure, contact-light journeys.
Best time to ride
Morning (08:00): Clearer air and quieter stations for photo-focused travelers.
Afternoon (14:00): Balanced light for city views crossing the Red River.
Evening (20:30): Illuminated boulevards and skyline, ideal for romantic or celebratory outings.
Since the Hanoi cultural double-decker train runs three times daily, you can pair it with tailored dining or spa reservations without rushing.
How to fold it into a luxury Hanoi itinerary
Pre/post-train dining: Reserve a chef-led tasting in the Old Quarter or a riverside cocktail hour after the evening run.
Private transfers: Chauffeured pick-up and drop-off at Hanoi Station with chilled towels and luggage handling.
Curated culture: Combine the ride with a private Old Quarter heritage walk or a backstage introduction to traditional music.
Seamless entries: Add airport fast track and VIP meet-and-greet to start and end your stay effortlessly.
Practical notes
Tickets & ID: Carry your chip-based ID (or set up VNeID when available) for the fastest verification.
Photography: Each carriage includes designated photo spots; consider evening departures for cinematic city lights.
Comfort: Double-decker design with wide windows; choose upper deck seats for the most expansive views.
Let our travel experts design your perfect Hanoi stay. We will secure premium seats on the Hanoi cultural double-decker train, coordinate private transfers, and curate dining and wellness add-ons for a truly elevated experience.
Comment (0)