Hanoi is a wild and vibrant city and one we instantly fell in love with. We we worried that as our first stop in Vietnam, Hanoi may be too overwhelming for the children. However, we were wrong. Our boys settled into Vietnamese culture brilliantly and embraced the chaos.
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We found Hanoi to be a wonderful place to explore with children, full of exciting worldschooling opportunities to experience. Check out our Hanoi Worldschooling Guide for everything you need to know about visiting Hanoi with kids.
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Thanks to our Street Food Tour, the boys were able to eased into daily life in Hanoi. The Food Tour offered an opportunity for the children to sample Vietnamese cuisine, learn all about daily life from our guide and visit one of the most iconic spots in Hanoi, Train Street.
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Nestled in the heart of Hanoi, Train Street offers a unique and unforgettable experience for families seeking to explore the city’s vibrant culture. This narrow alleyway, where train tracks run perilously close to colorful homes and local cafés, provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of Hanoians and the charm of this bustling metropolis.
Photo: Wandering the down the tracks of Train Street
What to expect
As you stroll down Train Street, the first thing that strikes you is the lively atmosphere. Locals go about their daily routines, children play, and vendors sell everything from fresh fruits to snacks. The juxtaposition of everyday life and the occasional rumble of a train passing through creates a thrilling ambiance that kids will find exciting.
Safety First
While Train Street is a popular spot for tourists, it’s essential to keep safety in mind. The trains pass through several times a day, so be sure to check the schedule (available online) and keep a close eye on younger children. When the train approaches, you’ll witness the community spring into action, as everyone clears the area to make way for the train.
Photo: Trying out an egg coffee during our Street Food tour
Family Friendly Activities
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Watch the Train Go By: Set up a spot at one of the cafés along the tracks for a front-row seat. The sound of the train approaching is sure to capture your children’s attention, and watching it whiz by is a thrilling sight!
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Photography Opportunities: Train Street is incredibly photogenic, with its colorful houses and lively street scenes. Encourage your kids to take photos or sketch what they see, turning the visit into a fun art project.
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Try Local Snacks: After the excitement of watching the train, grab some delicious Vietnamese snacks from nearby vendors. Pho, banh mi, and fresh fruit are great choices to fuel your family’s adventure.
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Explore the Neighborhood: Take some time to wander through the surrounding area. You’ll find quaint shops and local markets, perfect for picking up souvenirs and experiencing the local culture.
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Engage with Locals: If your children are curious, encourage them to interact with local residents. Many are friendly and willing to share stories about life along Train Street, offering a wonderful opportunity for cultural exchange.
Photo: The hustle and bustle of Train Street
Tips for visiting
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Visit During Off-Peak Hours: For a more relaxed experience, try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when the area is less crowded.
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Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing, as you’ll likely do a bit of walking and exploring.
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Stay Hydrated: Hanoi can be quite warm, so make sure to keep water on hand for the whole family.
Photo credit: thanglongwaterpuppet.com
Conculsion
Train Street is more than just a unique attraction; it’s a window into the everyday lives of Hanoi’s residents. For families, it offers an exciting blend of adventure, culture, and learning. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and embark on this unforgettable journey in Hanoi—Train Street awaits!
Photo: The Huc Bridge, Hoan Kiem Lake
Photo: writing notes at the Note Coffee
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About 4inthVan
We are a family of 4 living and travelling full time in our self converted Luton van.Â
Our aim is to provide other families information, guides and top tips to help them on their next adventure, whether that's world travel, van life or home education.