tourist cafes hanoi

17 BEST Cafes in Hanoi, Vietnam (DN-Friendly Too!)

Writing up a list of the best cafes in Hanoi, Vietnam, is no easy task. In fact, I was anxious writing this article! (Wait, maybe it’s all the coffee I’ve been drinking?)

Cafe culture in Vietnam is SERIOUS, my friends!

While this list is far from exhaustive, it’s a good start. There’s a cafe every ten steps you take while walking around Hanoi.

I tried to give you a great mix of cafes —whimsical spots, cafes that are digital nomad friendly, classic cafes, hauts, and hole-in-the-walls.

Get ready. You’re about to be jacked up on caffeine after this list!

Table of Contents

Best Cafes in Hanoi:

1. vui studio cafe in hanoi old town, 2. drop in cafe, 3. blackbird coffee, 5. hidden gem cafe hanoi, 6. cafe giảng—classic egg coffee in hanoi, 7. hatchin coffee, 8. hiphub café, 9. hidden alley cafe in hanoi old town, 10. cộng cà phê, 11. l’etage cafe, 12. the note coffee, 13. hanoi’s train cafes, 14. pingpong café & décor—tay ho, 15. capella specialty coffee roaster hanoi—tay ho, 16. lá studio—tay ho, 17. oriberry—tay ho.

Before we start—just a few notes…

• I lived here for about three months and drank LOTS OF COFFEE while I was here! (it was hard work but someone had to do it…)
• To get a really good understanding of the coffee culture in Hanoi, I recommend taking an affordable and quick coffee tour !
• I marked which cafes below are digital nomad-friendly , but keep in mind that you should always be respectful. Pack it up when it gets busy, and buy lots of stuff to make it worth you taking up a table.
• There are also a bunch of coworking spots around Hanoi if you really want a stable and easy spot to work without having to worry about paying for a coffee every hour!
• The cafes are mostly around Old Town , which is where you’ll likely be based during your visit.
• I did offer a few of my favorite cafes in Tay Ho , which is where I lived, in case you wander up north or if you’re thinking of being a digital nomad in Hanoi, as this is the popular area to base.

Review : ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

DN Friendly : 👩‍💻👍

If you’re on the hunt for a spot where your laptop and latte can be besties, Vui Studio Cafe is the spot.

This place is like that cool friend’s house where you can always get some work done—comfy, with a vibe that’s just right. Not to mention, they are serving up some good coffee and pastries.

It’s a modern place, not too big, and right along Hanoi’s charming Tong Duy Tan Street, which is a great foodie street.

DN Friendly : ❌

Ever wanted to sip on an iced Americano while a train whooshes by and you can watch daily life in Hanoi go by? Drop In Cafe is where it’s at—without the drama of actual Train Street (more on this later).

Snuggled in the heart of Old Town, this little cafe is more about sipping on the good stuff and moving on with your day than hanging out.

It’s perfect for a coffee pit stop, with just a few tables along a bustling street.

Craving a croissant and caffeine while you crack on with work? Blackbird Coffee offers two floors of prime table real estate, complete with enough power points to keep your gadgets juiced up.

The vibe is just right here; everyone was busy typing away when I walked in, which made me actually get some work done! There’s a small balcony, but the work and chilling tables are inside.

They also have a few courtyard tables if you want to sit in the sun for a bit. The Pain de Chocolat was on point here!

GAD8 is cozy enough for a work day, assuming you beat the rush as it’s a bit small. If you manage to snag a spot, you’re in for a treat with their coffee.

They have super passionate and knowledgeable baristas who have a deep knowledge of the coffee. This is also the spot to go if you want a selection of milk, like oat milk (not as easy to find!)

It’s just the right mix of chill and charm for when you need a caffeine high or to send an email.

Talk about a treasure trove of cuteness! Hidden Gem Cafe is a masterclass in quirky charm, with decor that’s a mix of antique-y, reclaimed stuff, and downright inventive (tires as seats and motorcycles as tables?!).

It’s spread out over several levels, including a sunroom-esque upper deck and a courtyard vibe that’s all kinds of cool, topped off with beautiful murals on the wall. This might be one of my fav spots!

The coconut coffee is supreme, the smoothies are perfect for a hot day, and they have a full menu, too, with some damn good tasty bites.

Review : ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Filled with tiny tables and chairs—like they are for a freaking five-year-old and a buzz that’s unmistakably local—welcome to Cafe Giảng. This place is as unassuming as it gets, so why come here?

It’s the OG spot among a sea of wannabes, packing in folks eager for their egg coffee fix. This is THE egg coffee stop. I obviously wanted the original but I had to get it iced since it was a hot, hot, day!

They have some other interesting options too like Oreo, Matcha, Cinnamon, you name it. It’s a bustling spot all about that egg coffee. A perfect pit stop for a taste of Hanoi’s cafe culture.

Nestled in the old French Quarter, Hatchin Coffee is as cute as they come.

This place is all about the vibes, set in a fancy part of town that feels just a tad more special. Creamy lattes, yummy matcha, and a selection of some cakes to boot.

A quick coffee in their indoor or outdoor area will help you explore more of Hanoi’s offerings.

Four floors, each with its own flavor, and a bubble tea that’ll have you coming back for seconds.

HipHub Café is the sort of place where work meets play, all with a view of the impressive St. Joseph Cathedral to boot.

Snag a spot next to the window, pop open your laptop, and let the lychee bubble tea work its magic. It’s like a little sanctuary for digital nomads and coffee and tea lovers alike.

I was able to put my head down and get some work done, but just upstairs, there was an adorable group of girls celebrating a birthday (with a cake made to look like a fried chicken leg btw). Check out their rooftop for a great view too!

— 👉 TOP PICK —

Coffee Tour!

Take this cheap and easy coffee tour to get the lowdown on coffee culture in Vietnam!

This place is the definition of “don’t judge a book by its cover.” Tucked away down a dark and dingy alley, and then up some stairs, Hidden Alley slings out vibes that are a tad dark, a bit grunge, but all kinds of cool.

With desserts to die for (the cheesecake was bomb!) and a drink menu that doubles as a bar list, it’s got a little something for everyone. Their indoor spot is dim and cozy but they have a light and airy outdoor seating area upstairs too.

There were a bunch of people with their laptops out getting some work done here, but I personally wouldn’t recommend it as a spot to do work. Dim lighting and uncomfy (for work) seats make this spot a sip and munch spot only!

📍 Locations

Step into a time warp back to ‘Nam in the ’60s and ’70s at Cộng Cà Phê. This place is famous for its unique vibe, blending a bit of history with a whole lot of coffee culture.

With decor that feels like a cozy bunker meets vintage chic, it’s the perfect spot to chill, people-watch, or dive into a good book. Their signature coconut coffee is a must-try—a creamy, dreamy concoction that’ll have you wondering why you ever settled for regular iced coffee.

Cộng Cà Phê, with its famous military green exterior, has several locations sprinkled around Hanoi. There’s a nice location just across from St. Joseph Cathedral or another overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake.

Roughly translating to “upstairs coffee.” This cafe is exactly that: a second-story cafe with a cozy interior complete with exposed brick walls and some Frenchy vibes. But the highlight is their outside second-story balcony overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake.

Grab a coconut or egg caco coffee, pet the owner’s cat that walks around monitoring visitors, and enjoy some prime people-watching from your vantage point!

Another multiple-level coffee shop, I absolutely love it! You will get some great coffee and pastries here, but don’t bring a book.

You’ll be too busy reading the notes on the wall. When I say this place is covered, it’s truly COVERED in notes.

Sip on your drink, nosh on a cake, and leave a note yourself before you take off for the day. This one is always busy, too, since it’s located along Hoan Kiem Lake.

Just a quick note here—These cafes in Hanoi have a whole vibe by themselves. I’m not going even to mention a specific one here, but just imagine sipping your coffee as a train chugs along right beside you.

Each cafe has its own thing, but they’re all about that up-close-and-personal train experience. Don’t get so lost in your cuppa that you miss the train!

Before you head to any of these, you have to read my guide to Hanoi’s Train Street first, though, as you can’t just rock up to these spots.

Banana coffee that tastes like you’re biting into a banana cream pie? Coconut coffee that’s like a tropical caffeine crunch in a cup?

I’m honestly usually not a dessert coffee person but holy sh*t—PingPong Café converted me. The drinks were so well done.

This is was my go-to spot for a lakeside sip-and-chill session. With two floors to choose from, you can’t go wrong with either if you’re looking to lounge around and enjoy a superb coffee.

Capella Specialty Coffee Roaster is the kind of place that makes you want to ditch your plans just to linger a little longer. It’s spacious, welcoming, and the kind of spot where you can really spread out and get to work.

With an adorable outdoor garden for those needing a breath of air and a selection of sweet treats to keep your energy up, it’s a haven for coffee lovers and laptop warriors alike.

We loved the coffee, and cookies and while I didn’t bust out the laptop here during my visit, there was plenty of room to do so.

Lá Studio isn’t just about the coffee; it’s about the experience of enjoying freshly baked bread, homemade yogurt, and a damn good sandwich.

OK, I’m a bit biased since I literally lived maybe ten steps from this coffee shop, but it’s SO good. If you’re in Tay Ho, grab yourself a cup of coffee, sit down if there’s any open space (it’s small and gets busy!), and eat the mushroom sandwich.

I’ve seen some people work from here but it’s far too small and busy, so I wouldn’t recommend it.

Did I save the best for last? Well, it may be the best in terms of people who are out in the Tay Ho area. Oriberry was our cafe in Hanoi for some damn good beans.

We fell in love with their roasts and ordered beans by the pounds to keep us fueled at home! But we also love their coffee shops too. There are numerous locations out in the Tay Ho area and in south Old Town.

If you’re living here for a bit, this is where you need to get your coffee from. Trust me, we did the homework already!

I hope this list helped you choose some of the best cafes in Hanoi to visit!

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The Best Cafes in Hanoi | The Ultimate Vietnam Coffee Guide

Attention coffee lovers! If you’re a fan of that magical bean brew, you’re in for a treat in Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital. This place is a paradise for anyone who’s serious about their caffeine fix. Hanoi’s café scene isn’t just a trend – it’s a window into the city’s lively social life, its vibrant energy, and its deep-rooted history. Hanoi boasts an array of cafes that aren’t just about serving coffee; they’re about creating a whole experience. Wherever you turn, you won’t be far from a cozy coffee spot. And here’s a little local tip: a cup of coffee goes best with a touch of condensed milk – it’s a Hanoi tradition that adds sweetness to every sip.

Picture this: you, on a café balcony, Hanoi’s bustling streets below, and a refreshing Ca Phe Sua Da in hand. It’s a snapshot of the city’s rhythm, where you can slow down and truly savor the moment. From classic egg coffee to innovative coconut concoctions, whether you like it piping hot or ice-cold, Hanoi’s cafes have something to awaken your taste buds.

With so many amazing cafes in Hanoi, we’ve done the groundwork for you. We’ve explored the streets, sampled the blends, and found the standout spots. From trendy hangouts along the road to hidden gems tucked away in corners, these are our top picks among the cafes in Hanoi . So, pull up a chair and dive into the delightful world of Vietnamese coffee!

*  Disclosure:  This post about the best cafes in Hanoi contains affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you book through our links. This is at no extra cost to you. This way you’re helping us write awesome travel guides and keep providing you with free content. We only recommend products we like and trust ourselves.

Hanoi Travel Essentials

FLIGHTS |  Find the best deals for flights to Hanoi with  Skyscanner .

HOTELS |   Beryl Signature Hotel & Travel (Budget), Salute Premium Hotel & Spa (Mid-Range), Scent Premium Hotel  (Luxury).

TOURS & ATTRACTIONS |  For booking the most fun experiences, check out  GetYourGuide  or  Viator .

GET AROUND | The best way to discover the old quarter & around is by foot. Make sure to download the  Grab   app , which is Hanoi’s Uber. 

TRANSFERS |  Ready to travel to your next destination in Vietnam? Book your bus or train tickets via  12go .

CURRENCY | The currency in Vietnam is called the Vietnamese Dong,  1 USD = 25.000 VND at the time of writing, check xe.com for updated exchange rates. 

SIM CARD | Buy a SIM CARD at the airport   the moment you arrive.

Coffee Culture in Vietnam: A Rich Blend of History and Flavor

Describing Vietnam as a country that runs on coffee would be an understatement. In fact, Vietnam is the second-largest coffee producer in the world, which shows just how serious they are about their coffee business.

Vietnam’s coffee culture is a unique combination of historical influences and the country’s own creative spirit. Though not a native crop, coffee has found a passionate home in Vietnam, becoming an integral part of daily life and a symbol of social interaction .

Before coffee came along, the people of Vietnam were a nation of tea drinkers. The introduction of coffee to Vietnam can be traced back to the French colonial period in the 19th century. French missionaries and colonists brought coffee plants to Vietnam , primarily in the regions of Da Lat and the Central Highlands. The climate and topography of these areas were found to be suitable for coffee cultivation, leading to the establishment of Vietnam as a coffee-producing nation.

The café scene in Vietnam is a blend of tradition and modernity. On one hand, you’ll find traditional sidewalk cafes where locals gather to sip their coffee while watching the world go by. These small, unassuming establishments are more than just places to drink; they are social hubs where conversations flow freely, ideas are exchanged, and friendships are forged. On the other hand, there’s a growing trend of chic, contemporary coffee shops that cater to younger generations with unique designs and innovative coffee creations.

In recent years, Vietnam has emerged as one of the world’s largest coffee exporters, right behind Brazil, known especially for its Robusta beans. This success on the global stage is a testament to the country’s dedication to perfecting its coffee production methods and maintaining the authenticity of its coffee culture.

READ MORE | The Ultimate 3-week Vietnam Itinerary for First-Timers

Exploring the Art of Vietnamese Coffee: The Traditional Tin Filter Brew

When you explore the vibrant coffee scene of Vietnam , you’ll discover a truly unique brewing method that centers around a special tool known as the tin filter , or “phin.” Usually placed on top of a clear glass cup.

The tin filter has three parts: a perforated plate, a screw-on press, and a brewing chamber. Coarsely ground Vietnamese coffee, often derived from robusta beans, is carefully placed in the brewing chamber. Onto boiled water is gently poured, allowing the coffee grounds to bloom for a brief moment.

Then, more hot water is added, and the slow drip process begins. The screw-on press regulates the pace of the drip. As the coffee trickles down, it meets sweetened condensed milk in a glass below. The final drops are collected, resulting in a concentrated and bold coffee. Give it a stir to blend the deep coffee notes with the creamy sweetness of condensed milk. It’s a harmonious combination that captures the essence of Vietnamese coffee, also known as “cà phê sữa” .

This brewing method showcases the heart of Vietnamese coffee culture—bridging tradition and innovation, old and new.

The different types of Vietnamese coffee

Before we dive into the hunt for the top cafes in Hanoi, let’s talk about what to actually order. Coffee holds a significant place in Vietnamese culture, and tasting the different types is an adventure in itself , much like taking a food tour or exploring the city’s iconic landmarks.

Now, here’s the thing: Forget your usual caramel macchiatos or your basic instant coffee. To truly experience Vietnamese coffee, you’ve got to try its diverse range. It’s like missing out on a key part of the experience if you don’t. From classic egg coffee to innovative coconut coffee and yogurt coffee, Vietnam gives coffee a local twist that keeps the flavors exciting and authentic.

Black Coffee – Cà Phê Đen

A straightforward option, black coffee refers to a strong brew of coffee without any added milk or sweeteners . It’s a no-nonsense, traditional Vietnamese drip coffee. “Ca phe” translates to “coffee,” and “den” signifies “black.” You can relish it steaming hot (nong) or refreshingly iced (da), as ca phe den nong (hot black coffee) or ca phe den da (iced black coffee). This is the essence of coffee in its raw form—bold and powerful. It’s significantly stronger than your typical cup, capable of invigorating you for the entire day. Unlike the West, where we blend 80% Arabica with 20% Robusta for smoother flavor, Hanoi coffee and Vietnamese coffee flip the ratio: 20% Arabica and 80% Robusta. This unique blend has led to Vietnam becoming the world’s largest producer of Robusta coffee and the second-largest producer overall.

Coffee with Condensed Milk – Cà Phê Sữa

Caphe den isn’t meant for the faint-hearted, boasting a robust and intense flavor profile. However, if you’re seeking a sweeter alternative, enter caphe sua—coffee with condensed milk . Caphe Sua is a delightful indulgence, bringing sweetness, creaminess, and luxurious richness. Back in the 1980s, the scarcity of fresh milk led both the French and Vietnamese to adopt condensed milk, birthing the beloved Ca Phe Sua Nong. Thankfully, the condensed milk’s sweetness harmoniously counterbalances the robustness of Robusta beans. For the ultimate experience, we suggest going for the iced version—Ca Phe Sua Da—where slowly melting ice tempers the sweetness, the perfect drink on a scorching day!

Egg coffee – Cà phê trứng

Undoubtedly Hanoi’s most iconic coffee innovation, this masterpiece involves a velvety egg yolk mixture crowning a robust coffee . Initially, the notion of a raw egg in coffee might raise eyebrows, but just like us, you’ll be egg-statically surprised by its brilliance! (See what I did there?) The outcome is a harmonious blend of creaminess, richness, and sweetness—a truly one-of-a-kind delight. Think of it as a dessert in a cup, it totally reminded us of tiramisu!

In its traditional form, egg coffee consists of three layers: a foundation of condensed milk, followed by Vietnamese coffee, and topped with whipped egg. To truly appreciate this treat, the best approach is to gently scoop from the bottom, experiencing each layer. Opt for it steaming hot or pleasingly iced, but a journey through Hanoi wouldn’t be complete without savoring this gem. While you might encounter similar offerings during your travels, the north’s specialty is unparalleled!

Coconut Coffee – Cà Phê Dừa

Coffee with a tropical twist— add coconut to the mix! In Vietnamese, “Dua” means coconut, and when it’s added to coffee, magic happens. It’s a delightful combo of condensed milk and the creamy goodness of coconut milk . It’s like a vacation in a cup. You can enjoy it hot or cold, and often it’s topped with shavings of coconut ice that add a bit of crunch.

If you’re on the lookout, you might come across the famous Cong Ca Phe chain, where they whip up a frozen version called “ca phe cot dua.” Trust me, it’s a flavor explosion that’s more like sipping on a heavenly milkshake than your typical coffee.

Yoghurt coffee – Cà Phê Sữa Chua

It might sound unusual, but trust me, it’s a creamy delight. This is where coffee decides to hang out with yogurt, and the result is something surprisingly refreshing. The coffee’s bold bitterness meets the yogurt’s smooth creaminess, and together, they create a balance that’s like a flavor explosion. It’s a pick-me-up that’s both satisfying and energizing. 

Salted coffee – Cà phê Muối 

Undoubtedly our favorite spin on Vietnamese coffee—we loved it so much that we tried making it at home! Salted coffee, or “Cà Phê Muối” in Vietnamese, is a contemporary twist on the classic. This unique coffee trend has gained traction in recent years, originating in the city of Hue . While Hue takes the crown, you might also come across it on menus in Hanoi these days.

The bitterness of coffee and a touch of saltiness come together for a flavor that’s both balanced and extraordinary. The salt doesn’t take over; it complements the coffee, adding depth without overshadowing it. This creative coffee concoction truly is a testament to Vietnam’s coffee culture!

The Best Cafes in Hanoi for Vietnamese Coffee

We’re not shy about our love for Hanoi—it’s a city that has our hearts for so many reasons! The vibrant streets, the colorful houses, and the downright delicious food—it’s a whirlwind of experiences. But let’s be real, sometimes Hanoi’s lively chaos can be a bit overwhelming . The never-ending flow of motorbikes and the busy streets can leave us feeling a tad frazzled. That’s when the city’s cozy cafes in Hanoi come to the rescue. Hanoi streets are a treasure trove of these charming cafes!

Settling onto one of those pint-sized stools, and enjoy the city’s laid-back coffee vibe! These cafés are like mini-havens, the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle allowing you to recharge. Some are nestled in leafy courtyards, others boast secretive rooftop nooks, and then there are the ones tucked into peaceful alleyways. Each one has its own charm—whether it’s a generations-old family business with guarded recipes or a millennial-pink dream just begging to be Instagrammed.

Loading T Cafe

Let’s kick things off with our top pick: Loading T Cafe , nestled in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Tucked away on the second floor of a charming French colonial house, this café’s discreet location only adds to its allure and authenticity. At first glance, the building might seem abandoned, but ascend a flight of stairs, and you’re welcomed into this trendy oasis.

From the intricate flooring to the vintage furnishings, and the lush greenery that breathes life into every corner, Loading T Café exudes a timeless charm. It’s the kind of spot where you can truly unwind, savor your coffee, and lose track of time in engaging conversations.

What sets Loading T apart is their innovative take on classic Hanoi coffee. They’ve introduced a unique twist by roasting cinnamon sticks with their coffee beans, giving each sip a distinctive touch. You absolutely can’t miss their signature cà phê trứng, or egg coffee. It’s a magical blend where the frothy sweetness of egg white perfectly complements the robust coffee flavor. So irresistible that we couldn’t resist ordering a second one—this time, the iced version! And oh, the coconut coffee was another revelation that left us utterly amazed.

Loading T Cafe Address | 8 P. Chân Cầm, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm

A Must-Try Gem! An Cafe quickly became our ultimate breakfast haven during our stay in Hanoi. Beyond dishing out seriously delicious Vietnamese Banh-Mi, their coffee game is nothing short of extraordinary. As you step into this easygoing café, a robust coffee aroma warmly welcomes you. What’s more, their outdoor seating area lets you soak in the lively vibe of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

The coffee selection here is a real winner, and it won’t break the bank. But what truly stands out is their “Art” coffee lineup, featuring some wonderfully inventive options, all at reasonable prices. Among them, a coffee “cocktail” with a splash of red wine and the “Hanoi winter” blend stole the show—they were nothing short of incredible.

No matter which coffee you choose, each one arrives beautifully presented and skillfully crafted. You can feel the passion that goes into every cup. And if you thought that was the end of the delights, their Banh mi is an absolute marvel. Once again, the prices are on point, and the taste is out of this world. The bread, the fillings—it’s all perfection, with an array of options to suit every taste.

Usually, we’re all about exploring new places when we travel, but An Café had us coming back every single day. That should tell you just how remarkable this place is.

An Café Address | 15 P. Phủ Doãn, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm

Hanoi Coffee Station

Hanoi Coffee Station stands tall among the city’s beloved cafés, offering a blend of handcrafted coffees paired with a prime seat on their balcony to witness the lively street scenes. But their charm doesn’t stop there—prepare for a brunch menu that’s as fascinating as it is delectable. From nourishing granola yogurt to avocado toasts and vibrant smoothie bowls, they’ve got you covered. And if you’re all about vegan and vegetarian options,  they’re serving up culinary goodness that won’t break the bank.

The crew, from the owner to the staff, have a wealth of coffee knowledge to share, and they’re more than happy to reveal some local traditions. They might even put on a little show to teach you the art of crafting the famed egg coffee. This place quickly became one of our personal favorite cafes in Hanoi.

Hanoi Coffee Station Address | 44 P. Hàng Bè, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 11011

Welcome to the birthplace of Hanoi’s legendary egg coffee! If you’re hunting for the famous egg coffee experience, this is where you want to be. Nestled in the Old Quarter, Cafe Giang is like a portal to the past. Step in and soak in the vintage vibes that fill the air, as if you’re stepping into a cozy time capsule. Inside, history comes alive with an atmosphere of nostalgia and charm. The decor, adorned with vintage furnishings and photographs, tells stories of days long gone.

Cafe Giang is the name behind the iconic egg coffee that has become synonymous with this café. This family-run establishment has been serving up this unique creation since the 1940s, and it’s not just the taste that’s famous—it’s the story behind it.

In the mid-1900s, Nguyen Van Dao’s father, working at Hanoi’s Sofitel Legend Metropole hotel during wartime, invented this drink. Back then, fresh and condensed milk was scarce, so he ingeniously replaced them with whisked egg yolks. He blended egg yolks with coffee and sugar, topping it all with egg cream to create a frothy masterpiece. Today, it’s an emblem of Hanoi, a must-try for every visitor. The recipe remains unchanged, keeping the authenticity alive. 

While others have tried to mimic it, the real deal can only be found at the bustling Cafe Giang. And if coffee isn’t your thing, don’t worry— they’ve got egg hot chocolate and a host of other delights on their menu too.

You’ll find Cafe Giang right in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a stone’s throw from Hoan Kiem Lake. So, if you’re in the mood for history, charm, and a darn good egg coffee, this spot’s got it all.

Cafe Giang Address | 39 Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm

Hidden Alley

Discovering cozy hidden cafés is our kind of adventure, and Hidden Alley lives up to its name by being a delightful coffee haven tucked into the heart of Hanoi. Nestled in a peaceful alley, it’s a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The moment you step inside, a wave of warmth and tranquility washes over you, making it the perfect spot to unwind with a coffee and treat yourself to some much-needed me-time.

Inside, the blend of rustic charm and modern comfort is just right. Wooden accents and soft lighting come together to create an inviting ambiance. Each table feels like its own private nook, giving you a sense of personal space. There’s a staircase that leads you to rooftop seating, and a hidden patio adds to the magic with even more seating options.

Coffee here is an art, and Hidden Alley takes pride in every cup. Their skilled baristas craft each drink to perfection. Whether you’re into aromatic espressos or velvety cappuccinos, they’ve got you covered. But what truly makes Hidden Alley shine is its array of artisanal pastries that pair wonderfully with their coffee. Oh, and guess what? They even serve a version of Hue’s famed salted coffee—talk about a delightful surprise!

Hidden Alley Address | No. 9B P. Báo Khánh, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000

Xofa café & bistro

Entering Xofa Café is like stepping right into the vibrant heart of Hanoi. The atmosphere here is so inviting and cozy, that you’ll feel like you’ve found a second home. The abundance of comfy sofas adds to the laid-back vibe. The interior design gracefully combines modern aesthetics with rustic charm, creating an environment that’s both trendy and comfortable.

It’s not just a café—it’s a versatile hangout. Whether you’re looking to socialize or get some work done. Inside, you’ll find air-conditioned comfort, complete with bookshelves and soothing background music. If you head to the outdoor terrace you will find a peaceful retreat where you can savor your drinks surrounded by tranquility.

During our visit, we couldn’t resist trying their coconut coffee—it was a true delight. We paired it with a mouthwatering lemon cheesecake that hit all the right notes. Keep in mind that prices lean towards the higher side, reflecting its popularity as a trendy spot for young folks. Plus, it’s open 24/7 and tends to get pretty lively at night.

Xofa Café & Bistro address | 14 Tống Duy Tân, Hàng Bông, Hoàn Kiếm.

Cafe Dinh is the embodiment of a classic local Vietnamese coffee place, embracing the essence of its culture with its unassuming interior and humble low stools. Situated on the north side of Hoan Kiem Lake, a renowned tourist hotspot, this gem often goes unnoticed by passersby. Up a narrow staircase on the second floor, tucked behind neighboring shops, Cafe Dinh stands inconspicuously. No flashy signboards, just a modest poster inside the building’s hallway that whispers, ‘Cafe Dinh, second floor.’

The charm of this place lies in its unpretentious atmosphere, designed to mirror a cozy living room where friends gather for relaxed conversations. The decor may be simple, but its historical significance and exceptional coffee more than compensate. Here’s a little secret: Cafe Dinh is owned by the same family behind Cafe Giang. In fact, it’s the daughter of the egg coffee’s inventor who runs this spot. If you’re seeking the iconic egg coffee experience in a more serene setting, Cafe Dinh is your go-to—serving up the same legendary egg coffee as Cafe Giang but in a tranquil and less bustling environment. However, lately, more and more tourists tours & Instagrammers are starting to find their way here as well.

Cafe Dinh Address | 13 Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm

Usually, we steer clear of chain cafes, but this viet-cong-inspired theme cafe in Hanoi piqued our interest. Hanoi’s famed cafe franchise, Cong Caphe , is spread across the city, known for its military green interiors and prime people-watching spots. The ‘Communist Chic’ design of Cộng takes you back to the days of youth brigades, state ownership, and Russian-language schoolbooks. To Western eyes, Cộng’s style is both provocative and an intriguing journey.

Founded by Vietnamese entrepreneur Nguyễn Hà Linh, Cộng’s first branch emerged in 2007 on Hanoi’s Triệu Việt Vương Street. Since then, it’s been on a steady rise, with branches appearing all over Hanoi and in other northern cities. Adorned in their signature army green hue, each Cộng branch boasts cozy, dimly lit spaces, with lofts and private corners aplenty. War-era memorabilia, propaganda posters, vintage Zorki cameras, and antiques transport you to another era.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Cộng is known for serving one of Hanoi’s finest frozen coconut coffees (ca phe cot dua)—a tropical twist on your caffeine fix. It’s almost like a milkshake, a delightful surprise. And don’t be surprised to find an array of baked goods and meals at most Cong places. Prices are reasonable, making it an inviting option. Top it off with fast Wi-Fi, and you have an excellent workspace. A blend of retro and modern vibes awaits, accompanied by the allure of their iconic coconut coffee.

Cong Cafe Address | 27 P. Nhà Thờ, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm

Nola Cafe & Bar

Nola Cafe stands as another cherished addition to the array of Hidden Hanoi Cafes. To uncover this gem, follow a discreet corridor adorned with charming red lanterns and ascend a set of stairs. Don’t let the modest entrance fool you—the cafe’s interior sprawls across three floors, offering more space than you’d expect. 

Inside, Nola Cafe treats visitors to cozy rooftop terraces surrounded by greenery and a cozy labyrinth of indoor spaces. Set within a charmingly weathered French colonial building, the cafe’s decor includes an abundance of plants, with windows and balconies framing scenic views from all angles.

While Nola Cafe serves up a satisfying Vietnamese iced coffee, cà phê sữa đá, it goes beyond that. The cafe boasts a rooftop terrace where you can relax and a rotating art gallery that keeps things fresh and intriguing. During our visit, we enjoyed a peaceful afternoon absorbed in its welcoming atmosphere, while reading a book.

Nola Cafe & Bar Address | in the alley, 89 P. Mã Mây, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Cafe Duy Trí

For an exquisite coffee experience, look no further than Ca Phe Duy Tri , nestled in Hanoi’s Truc Bach area. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after exploring the West Lake vicinity.

Established in 1936, this is among the oldest cafes in Hanoi, if not the oldest. What sets them apart is their commitment to quality, sourcing freshly harvested coffee beans from their very own farm. Don’t miss out on their signature homemade yogurt coffee—a creamy delight that’s both tangy and thick. Pairing their rich roast with frozen yogurt creates an unforgettable morning treat, akin to breakfast in a glass.

When in doubt, opt for the classic Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk, an aromatic and flavorful delight that stands out. It’s a no-frills establishment that embodies Hanoi’s rich history, offering a genuine taste of the past.

Cafe Duy Tri Address | 43A Phố Yên Phụ, Yên Phụ, Tây Hồ, Hà Nội

Tranquil Books & Coffee

Tranquil Books & Coffee offers a different vibe compared to the historic ambiance of Cafe Duy Tri or Cafe Giang, yet it stands as a beloved choice among the array of cafes in Hanoi. The name says it all – it’s a place where you can enjoy both books and coffee, creating a relaxed atmosphere that’s great for studying or just chilling out. They have a collection of books in Vietnamese and English, making it a great spot for book lovers. If you’re a digital nomad looking for a place to work, this could be your go-to spot.

The decor is modern and cozy, offering a comfortable place to unwind with a book. They play relaxing music in the background as you sip on an iced latte or Vietnamese drip coffee with condensed milk and munch on some delicious banana bread. If you’re feeling hungry, they also have heartier options like shakshuka and sandwiches.

Beyond the interior, the cafe has outdoor seating where you can enjoy the Hanoi ambiance. Inside, you’ll find two floors with air conditioning to escape the summer heat. To find Tranquil Books & Coffee, there’s a ‘secret’ staircase on the road behind Cua Bac Church. Whether you’re a book lover or just looking for a peaceful coffee spot, this cafe holds its own among Hanoi’s diverse coffee scene.

Tranquil Books & Coffee Address | 5 Nguyễn Quang Bích, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Hidden Gem Cafe

This cafe truly lives up to its name – it’s a hidden gem! While the entrance might not catch your eye from the street, venturing through the alleyway reveals one of Hanoi’s most charming cafes. Inside, it’s a burst of lively colors and lots of green plants. Hidden Gem Cafe is cleverly divided into different cozy corners, each with its own unique style. What’s really cool is that you’ll find street art all around, adding a hip urban touch. Even more impressive, the cafe’s design is made from recycled materials to raise awareness about reducing waste. You’ll even spot tables made from old tractor parts.

If you head upstairs, you’ll discover a covered rooftop deck decorated with murals and a balcony that gives you a view of the lower level. Don’t miss trying one of their specialty coffees, like the ca phe trung. Unfortunately, we couldn’t explore everything this time as we were in a hurry – we wish we had found this place sooner to spend more time here. People say their Spring rolls are fantastic, and their coconut coffee is a must-try as well.

Hidden Gem Coffee Address | 1 Hàng Mắm, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

The Note Coffee

The Note Coffee is undoubtedly one of the most Instagram-famous cafes in Hanoi! Every inch of this well-known coffee is adorned with handwritten Post-it notes, contributed by countless visitors. It’s conveniently located in the center of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and stands out as a playful and quirky destination where guests are encouraged to leave their mark by scribbling notes on the walls. You’ll find love notes, inspiring quotes, and heartfelt messages covering the walls across three levels.

When you stop by, you can explore a variety of Vietnamese coffee options, including classics like coconut and egg coffee, or simply enjoy an espresso. And here’s the fun part – when you order your drink, you’re given a few stickers to contribute your own note to the café’s lively collection. It’s a creative concept that adds a personal touch to the café’s ambiance. Plus, it’s an ideal spot for snapping photos and creating memories. So, sip your coffee, unleash your inner poet, and create a colorful message on the sticky notes 

The Note Coffee Address | 64 Lương Văn Can, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

The Hanoi Social Club

The Hanoi Social Club is a popular hangout in the city, especially well-known among expats. It’s a spot where people come to eat, chat, and get some work done. The café’s interior is quite stylish, with cool tiled floors, contemporary art, and a mix of vintage furniture that somehow all fits together. Lots of folks love the place for its cool vibe and yummy brunch, especially their famous avocado toast!

If you’re looking for a quieter place to get things done, head upstairs where there’s a comfy air-conditioned room. And don’t forget about the rooftop terrace – a peaceful hideaway from the bustling streets where you can enjoy a classic Vietnamese coffee. On top of their coffee game, they also serve up cocktails and even host live music events at night. Just remember, their prices are a bit higher compared to some other cafes in Hanoi, mainly because they cater more to travelers from the West.

The Hanoi Social Club Address | 6 Ngõ Hội Vũ, Hàng Bông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Vietnam Essential Resources

Below are the booking sites & services we use for traveling to Vietnam:

PLANNING |  Need help planning your upcoming Vietnam trip? Check out our  3-week Vietnam Itinerary  to start mapping out your route!

FLIGHTS |  Find the best deals for flights to Vietnam with  Skyscanner .

HOTELS |  Browse  Booking.com  for accommodations in Vietnam, from budget hostels to luxury hotels.

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10 Best Cafes in Hanoi including Secret Coffee Shops

Hanoi’s coffee shop scene is incredible. You can escape from the bustling streets to find so many hidden cafes that are barely marked on the outside. Then, in most cases, you’ll head through a tiny alley and some stairs and find the coziest cafes in Hanoi. I visited many of them during my week in Hanoi and even did some work in some of the more work-friendly coffee shops.

Read on for my list of the best cafes in Hanoi, Vietnam from the secret ones to the most instagrammable ones like Note Cafe!

Note: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase something through the links, at no additional cost to you. Read our Affiliate Disclosure  here .

More reading: How to Spend 4 Days in Hanoi Headed to Ninh Binh too? Then read my blog post on the Best Things to do in Ninh Binh Best Tours in Hanoi: Egg Coffee Making Class Train Street + Street Food Tour Train Street + City Sightseeing Tour Halong Bay Cruise Hanoi Cooking Class with a Local

Must-try Coffee in Hanoi

Vietnam has an incredible coffee culture with several unique types of coffee. Here are some of the most popular types:

• Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá) : This is perhaps the most iconic Vietnamese coffee. It’s made with strong, dark-roast coffee, often brewed using a Vietnamese drip filter (phin), which drips slowly into a cup containing sweetened condensed milk. It’s then poured over ice.
• Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng) : Originating from Hanoi, this unique coffee consists of a creamy, meringue-like egg foam topping dark coffee. The foam is made from egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk, creating a rich and indulgent drink. Egg coffee originated in Hanoi during the 1940s when milk was scarce due to war rationing. As a result, people had to find alternatives to traditional milk-based coffee drinks. Nguyen Van Giang, a bartender at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel, created egg coffee as a substitute for cappuccino using whisked egg yolks and condensed milk. In Hanoi, they have a wonderful tour where you can learn how to make egg coffee.
• Coconut Coffee (Cà Phê Dừa) : This variation adds a tropical twist to Vietnamese coffee by incorporating coconut milk. It offers a creamy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the strong coffee well.
• Salt Coffee (Cà Phê Muối): This unique coffee drink combines the bitterness of coffee with subtle saltiness. It’s usually made by adding a pinch of salt to the coffee grounds before brewing or by adding a small amount of salt directly into the brewed coffee. Sometimes, it’s accompanied by sweetened condensed milk or sugar to balance out the saltiness. This was by far my favorite coffee to try in Vietnam.
• Yogurt Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Chua) : Another creative twist, this coffee is topped with a layer of sweetened yogurt. The tartness of the yogurt contrasts with the bitterness of the coffee, creating a unique flavor profile.

Best Cafes in Hanoi

I spent a lot of time in Hanoi and visited all many cafes. Here are my top choices for the best coffee shops and cafes in Hanoi!

Most of these cafes are solo travel-friendly. Check out my full guide on solo travel in Vietnam.

1. Hidden Gem Cafe – The Prettiest Coffee Shop in Hanoi

This was my favorite coffee shop. It was so cute inside and I loved lounging here with my salt coffee admiring the nice decor. I tried also a bahn mi sandwich which was one of the better ones I tried in Hanoi. They also have smoothies like the pictured mango smoothie!

☕ Best for: The Prettiest Coffee Shop in Hanoi 📍Location: 1 Hàng Mắm, Phố cổ Hà Nội ( Google Maps ) 💻 Work-friendly? Yes!

2. Tranquil Books & Coffee – The Best Working Cafe in Hanoi

Tranquil Books & Coffee is the best co-working cafe in Hanoi, Vietnam. You’ll fall in love with this place. It has super cozy feel. If you head upstairs, you must take your shoes off and they have tables low to the ground so you need to sit on the floor.

The place is super dimly lit so if you need a lot of lighting to read or do work then you might want to sit in their outdoor space.

They have 2 different spaces which I only found out as I left the place. Across the street, I saw there was even more seating. I love the interiors with the shelves full of books and the intimate feel of this place. It is definitely one of the best cafes in Hanoi.

☕ Best for: Working 📍Location: 5 P. Nguyễn Quang Bích, Cửa Đông ( Google Maps ) 💻 Work-friendly? Yes, but the lighting is dim so if you need light sit outside.

3. Loading T café – The Best Coconut Coffe in Hanoi

Loading T Cafe is a super popular place even though you might not see it right away when passing by. I heard about it from many other blogs but passed it right up when I went to find it. I tried their frozen coconut coffee and it did not disappoint. The interiors are super cute too and it felt like a place you could stay all day with a book or chat with a friend at.

☕ Best for: Trying Coconut Coffee 📍Location: 8 P. Chân Cầm ( Google Maps ) 💻 Work-friendly? Totally

4. Hanoi 1990s – The Best Train Street Cafe in Hanoi

There are many cafes along the famous Train Street in Hanoi where a train runs through a tiny street right next to you. One of my favorites was Hanoi 1990s.

There’s actually 2 different train streets in Hanoi and this one seems to be less strict with entering. Normally, the police will patrol and you can only enter if invited by a cafe. In March 2024 I visited by just walking up to the cafe an hour before the scheduled train. However, in some cases, you might not have that luck and will need to be invited on.

I thought this spot was so cute. But be careful as the train comes much closer than you’ll ever expect! It is safe but just be smart and listen to the instructions given by the staff when you visit. Sometimes the trains will come with no warning just a loud honking from the train.

☕ Best for: The ultimate Train Street experience 📍Location: Ngõ 222 Đ. Lê Duẩn ( Google Maps ) 💻 Work-friendly? No, incoming train haha Read my complete guide on how to visit the Hanoi Train Street

5. The Note Coffee – The Most Instagrammable Cafe in Hanoi

The Note Coffee was voted the 4th most instagrammable coffee shop in the world ! I have literally seen it all over Instagram prior to my first Vietnam trip and knew I had to pay a visit here. There are 4 floors covered from every corner (even the stairs, ceilings, and fans!) with post-it notes. On all of the tables, you’ll find a stack of post-it notes where you can write anything you’d like and then you can stick it on the wall for everyone to read. I loved the experience so much. If you visit and find mine let me know!

☕ Best for: Instagrammableness 📍Location: 64 P. Lương Văn Can ( Google Maps ) 💻 Work-friendly? You could, but it’s more for the experience here.

6. Hidden Alley Coffee – The Most Hidden Coffee Shop in Hanoi

I was staying at a hotel right next to this cafe and had no idea it was there after walking by the alley multiple times. I was looking for a nearby place to do some work on my blog and found it. You have to go up some stairs to get there after coming through the alleyway. It is a really great spot with an amazing outdoor space too and cozy relaxed atmosphere. It is one of the best coffee shops in Hanoi Old Quarter.

☕ Best for: hidden gem with a nice outdoor terrace 📍Location: No. 9B P. Báo Khánh ( Google Maps ) 💻 Work-friendly? Yes, people were doing work when I was there.

7. The Little Plan – Hidden Gem with Great Salt Coffee

The Little Plan is a hidden gem. I stumbled upon it after having lunch at An Cafe. I saw the sign down the alleyway pictured above and went to check it out. I really loved chilling here and also did some work. It was quiet and work-friendly. There were 2 levels and there’s also an outdoor balcony.

☕ Best for: quiet and relaxed atmosphere 📍Location: 11 Phủ Doãn Hà Nội Hanoi City ( Google Maps ) 💻 Work-friendly? Not really, it’s pretty small

8. Lifted Coffee & Brunch – The Best Brunch Spot in Hanoi

If you’re tired of Vietnamese food, stop by Lifted Coffee & Brunch for the best brunch in Hanoi, Vietnam. It was such a nice break from Asian food and this spot is popular. I had to wait about 25 minutes for a table. It was worth the delicious duck and cheese sandwich I had though.

☕ Best for: Brunch 📍Location: 101 P. Hàng Gà, Hàng Bồ ( Google Maps ) 💻 Work-friendly? Not really, it’s more of a popular brunch spot!

9. An Cafe – The Best Cafe with Bahn Mi

An Cafe is simple yet amazing. The branch I went to was quite small on the inside but there’s a a few tables lined outside. The food is fantastic. I think this was the best bahn mi I tried in Hanoi to be honest. I liked it more than the one at the famous Bahn Mi 25. I also had a strawberry bananna smoothie and it was delicious.

☕ Best for: Bahn Mi, Smoothies, Tea & Coffee 📍Location: 15 P. Phủ Doãn, Hàng Trống ( Google Maps ) 💻 Work-friendly? Not really, it’s pretty small

10. Cong Caphe – The Most Popular Cafe in Hanoi

Last but not least, Cong Caphe is a really famous coffee shop in Hanoi and you will find many locations throughout the city. They are all super cute cafes with multiple levels and lookout windows for the best views in town. The one above is right outside St Joseph’s Cathedral so you can have a coffee and a view of the stunning church. They have really good iced coconut coffee.

☕ Best for: seeing good views and nice social ambiance 📍Location: Various Locations 💻 Work-friendly? It’s pretty busy and noisy. If you go to some of the less touristy ones then yes.

Hopefully, this post helps you find the best cafes in Hanoi! Let me know how you got on in the comments below!

For more reading, you may also like: 🇻🇳  Hanoi 4 Day Itinerary| 🚂 Hanoi Train Street 🏞️   The best things to do in Ninh Binh 🏮 The Best Things to Do in Hoi An 🚤 Best Things to Do in Hue 🌊 Guide to the Mekong River Delta 🏨 Where to Stay in Hoi An 💖 Solo Travel Guide to Vietnam

Meet Jackie Rezk, the London-based explorer behind Jou Jou Travels. With a knack for uncovering hidden gems, Jackie's travel blog captures the charm of undiscovered places through pretty architecture and bursts of color. Featured in Yahoo News, Tripadvisor, Niche Pursuits, and GetYourGuide, Jackie has been blogging for four years and solo-traveled to over 20 countries. In 2023, she made the leap to full-time blogging, sharing her passion for travel and unique finds with readers worldwide.

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The 13 BEST coffee shops in Hanoi

Last updated on March 15th, 2024

From hidden cafes, to high quality roasters, to rooftop gems, the coffee scene in Hanoi is incredible. And in this guide we’re sharing over 11 of the best coffee shops in Hanoi! Discovering local coffee shops is one of our favorite things to do while traveling. And lucky for us, Vietnam is known for being a coffee mecca. Not only is it the world’s second largest coffee producer, but it also has a wide variety of unique drinks. Like coffee with EGG in it (trust us, it’s amazing) ! We spent about 10 days in Hanoi, with many of our days being filled with work. And what do you need on a long work day? Coffee of course! So we made it our mission to visit as many coffee shops as possible during our time in Hanoi. 

Watch our experiences in Hanoi , including exploring the Old Quarter, visiting Train Street, and going on an epic food tour ! 

If you’re like us and seek out the best coffee on your travels, we’ve gotcha covered! In this guide we’re sharing 13 of the best coffee shops in Hanoi! This list includes both spots serving traditional Vietnamese coffee, plus trendy third wave coffee shops and roasters, which have your standard lattes. Ready to get caffeinated?

A quick rundown on Vietnamese Coffee

1. cafe dinh, 2. atelier coffee, 3. hidden gem coffee, 4. tranquil books & coffee , 5. hanoi coffee station, 6. the wiselands coffee, 7. sonder coffee bar, 8. blackbird coffee, 9. cộng cà phê, 10. the note coffee, 11. ta coffee, 12. bluebirds’ nest, 13. hanoi 1990s, looking for more things to do in vietnam, ready to get caffeinated.

Coffee was first introduced to Vietnam by the French in the 1850s and Vietnam is now the world’s second largest coffee producer after Brazil. 

Vietnam is the largest producer of the Robusta beans, which has almost twice the amount of caffeine than Arabica beans and has a more bitter and strong taste.  Unsure what to order? Here are some of our favorite Vietnamese coffee drinks! Cà Phê Sữa Đá (or Cà Phê Nâu Đá in the North): This is the classic Vietnamese coffee drink to try. It is iced coffee with condensed milk, making it a refreshing, sweet, and rich drink.  Egg Coffee: Egg coffee is a Hanoi staple! This creamy, rich drink consists of coffee, plus whipped egg yolk and condensed milk on top. It came to be during a milk shortage during the French War. Salt Coffee : Salt coffee may sound a bit strange, but it is SO good! This is coffee with a salty, sweet cream foam on top, giving it almost a salted caramel flavor. Coconut Coffee : For a nice icy treat, try coconut coffee! This is basically a coconut cream slush, with coffee poured onto it. 

Looking for the best food to try in Vietnam? Read our guide to the 10+ best foods to try in Vietnam !

The Best Coffee Shops in Hanoi

Note: this list of the best coffee shops in Hanoi is in no particular order!

Easily one of the best coffee shops in Hanoi is Cafe Dinh . This is a must-visit to try the famous Hanoi egg coffee! When we went on a food tour with a Hanoi local we learned that it is actually owned by the creator of egg coffee’s daughter. He left the original spot Café Giang , for his son. So either spot is a great choice to try it! Egg coffee is truly a must try drink in Hanoi. It may sound a bit strange, but it is a decadent dessert in a cup! The whipped egg yolk and condensed milk top is thick, creamy, and sweet. It reminded us of a melted marshmallow! This balances out perfectly with the bitter coffee. We suggest trying the egg cream part first, and then mixing it together to cut the sweetness a bit.

For a sleek, modern coffee shop experience, head to Atelier Coffee ! This small coffee shop serves a wide variety of drinks, like Vietnamese drinks, cold brew, lattes, and tea drinks, plus some specialty concoctions that you won’t find elsewhere. 

Hidden Gem Coffee is truly a hidden gem! To get to the cafe, you have to go down a small alley, enter a building, then climb some stairs to the third floor. Besides its hidden location, what makes this cafe extremely cool is that it is decorated using recycled items. You’ll see aquariums and seats made out of old tires, water jug lights, and more! There are also tons of seating areas among its few floors, with murals and lots of natural light. We enjoyed an egg coffee and while we think the egg coffee from Cafe Dinh was slightly better, it was still really good. And you must try their sticky rice pandan leaf coffee! It had coffee, a pandan slush, and sticky rice, which was a fun texture and temperature combination. They also have a few food items. We got their beef noodle bowl, which was delicious!

As book lovers and coffee lovers, we get excited when our two loves combine! And that is exactly what happened for us at Tranquil Books & Coffee . The interior of this coffee shop is lined with bookshelves, making it the perfect spot to read, work, or just relax for a bit while exploring Hanoi.  But not only is the vibe worth visiting for (they also have a great outdoor seating area!), we think it’s one of the best coffee shops in Hanoi because of the coffee itself. We got one of their seasonal drinks, which was sort of like a salt coffee latte. And it was so good that we had to go back for seconds! Next time, we want to try their banana coffee!

Want to enjoy coffee with a view? Head to Hanoi Coffee Station ! This coffee shop in the Old Quarter has a great upstairs balcony that overlooks the hustle and bustle of the city. For the peanut butter lovers, you have to try their peanut butter coffee. This is basically a peanut butter slush, with coffee! You can also get smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and french toast.

During one of our work days in Hanoi, we headed to THE WISELANDS Coffee to get a change of scenery. This multi-level coffee shop also functions as a bookstore, with bookshelf lined walls, plus lots of plants and lighting, making it a nice, bright space. They have a bunch of drink choices, like lattes, tea concoctions, and ube lattes! Since we were there for hours, we tried a mix of everything!

When it comes to creative, high quality coffee drinks, Sonder Coffee Bar may win for the best coffee shop in Hanoi. Sonder means “the realization that each random passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as your own.” You can tell by the name alone that they put a lot of thought into this coffee shop. And that shows in the coffee as well! Here you can try some interesting crafted drinks, like whiskey barrel aged cold brew, a fluffee, and a pho macchiato! What is a pho macchiato? Well, we aren’t 100% sure. It is espresso, milk, and secret ingredients. Whatever those secret ingredients are, it sure was tasty!

Blackbird Coffee is another upscale, modern coffee shop, whipping up the classics, like cappuccinos, plus Vietnamese favorites, like nâu (coffee, plus condensed milk). There are a few locations around town, but this location in the Old Quarter has an upstairs balcony, where you can look down onto the streets below. 

Cộng Cà Phê is a Vietnamese coffee chain that we visited in both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. It is a great coffee shop to try some Vietnamese classics, like coconut coffee.  The shop itself is army inspired, so you’ll find lots of army green accents, old books on the wall, black and white photos, and vintage decor. The staff even wears khaki outfits that are reminiscent of the Vietnam War era. While there are many locations in Hanoi, we highly recommend this one , which overlooks a crazy roundabout in the middle of the Old Quarter. We loved sitting up there and watching the motorbikes and cars zip around, plus pedestrians trying to find their way through the craziness.

The Note Coffee is one of the most unique coffee shops in Hanoi. Before you even walk in you’ll notice tons of post it notes. These are all written by customers and line all of the walls, including outside. On these notes you’ll find messages, quotes, and drawings. You could stay entertained for hours here, just trying to read the notes. And maybe you’ll find some inspiration or a kind word to brighten your day!

While the majority of the best coffee shops in Hanoi that we’ve shared have been in or near the Old Quarter, Ta Coffee requires a bit of a trek to get to. Located near West Lake, which is a higher end area home to many expats, this is a great shop to pop into if wandering around the lake (or after eating tacos at Naco Taco !). Ta Coffee has a wide open interior space, with lots of seating areas, but we loved sitting on their front patio, with lots of locals and plants around!

Hanoi must have a thing for coffee shops filled with books, because Bluebirds’ Nest is yet another book plus coffee shop combo. And just like the other two, it’s a great spot to get some work done. But what makes this one stand out is that there are CATS! While we are dog lovers ourselves, any chance to hang out with animals while drinking coffee is a WIN for us!

Last, but certainly not least, is Hanoi 1990s . This cafe is less about the coffee (although it is good!) and more about the experience. Located right along the train tracks, you’ll get to experience your coffee while a train passes just inches in front of you. It’s an exhilarating experience that was a HUGE highlight of our time in Hanoi.  Hanoi 1990s is not in the main area of Hanoi Train Street , but it is in an area that is MUCH easier to access. The owner is super kind and welcoming to tourists who want to experience the train. We highly recommend choosing them over other cafes along the tracks!

Want to visit Hanoi Train Street and Hanoi 1990s? Read our full guide to visiting Hanoi Train Street for everything you need to know. Including the two areas to visit, how to avoid any closures, the train schedule, and what to expect while there. 

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13 Best cafes in Hanoi with pictures: 2024

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On every street corner in Hanoi, Vietnam you’ll find either a café, or restaurant or both. Vietnam is renowned for their amazing food … and for good reason! Here are the best cafes in Hanoi that are just begging to be visited!

This is definitely a foodie town and you should definitely be; I couldn’t help but breathe in the freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee wafting through the air. Hanoi’s cafe culture is something you have to witness for yourself; it’s a testament to the city’s social scene , the banging energy and of course the rich history.

The city is renowned for its rich coffee culture, where each café has its unique charm and flavours to offer. I’ll be covering the 13 best cafes in Hanoi , from the buzzing Old Quarter to the phenomenon that is crazy Train street!

Writing epic travel guides so you know the best hidden gems everywhere you go! Read more about me here.

Adriana for Wanderlicious

You might be interested in some of my other Vietnam articles :

The incredible Incense Village in Hanoi

The crazy and incredible Hanoi Train Street

Hoi An Lanterns

My Khe Beach, Da Nang

Best places to stay in Da Nang

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Things to do in Hue City

The Ha Giang Loop

Best tours in Hanoi:

13 best cafes in hanoi, train street cafes.

Now this is surely the most unique spot to have a coffee and definitely has my vote for one of the best cafes in Hanoi, if only for the bizarrely unique experience of sipping a coffee whilst having a thundering train pass within inches of you.

But as bizarre as it is, it is fun, unique and a great experience! If there’s a single thing you MUST do in Hanoi, it’s train street (unless you have a deathly fear of trains), please go! Full guide on Hanoi Train Street coming soon!

This place should be one of the first on your list as it’s rich with history, significant for changing the way Vietnam drinks its coffee, and definitely one of the best cafes in Hanoi; head straight into the Old Quarter, you’ll spot Cafe Giang a tiny little shopfront that’s pretty indiscernible.

But even if the shop face is not that remarkable, it is the ultimate hidden gem renowned for its iconic egg coffee .

I honestly first thought that it sounded a bit gross, I had a mental image of someone cracking an egg into a coffee, but it’s nothing like that; if anything, it tastes like a creme brulee . This family-run establishment has been serving this unique coffee since the 1940s and the story behind it is why this cafe is famous .

This recipe was devised during a time when milk was scarce in Vietnam, so they used egg yolks for milk . The creamy mixture of whipped egg yolks, coffee, and sweetened condensed milk creates a smooth foam that has a delightful creme brulee-y texture. It’s a must-visit for Hanoi City.

The recipe for the famous Giang egg coffee is the same as when it was invented, and includes chicken egg yolk, Vietnamese coffee powder, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and cheese.

The coffee is brewed using a filter in a small cup, and then the whisked blend of egg yolk and other ingredients is added. To maintain its warmth, the cup is submerged in a bowl of hot water. It’s a right of passage – try one!

If you’re not a fan of coffee, try an egg hot chocolate , or one of the other 100 things on the menu. Giang Café is tucked away on Nguyen Huu Huan Street and is a must visit.

Cong Caphe (Cộng Cà Phê)

A visit to Hanoi would be incomplete without visiting the famous Cong Caphe . This is a chain of coffee shops around the city and is very cosy with wooden alcoves tucked away and lovely authentic bookshelves- it seems to be a blend of vintage Vietnamese aesthetics with a contemporary twist.

Cộng’s founder, Linh Dung wanted travellers to experience her rustic and romantic childhood memories through a visit into Cộng Caphe and it certainly works.

Cong Caphe also sells their own game board; the Vietnamese version of monopoly and a few other games.

Try their signature Coconut Coffee (this was surprisingly quick to become my go to beverage), they have a refreshing blend of strong coffee and creamy coconut milk, served in a retro tin cup. Very instagrammable.

There are branches all around town.

The Note Coffee

This café is super instagrammable! Every inch of The Note Coffee café is covered with colourful post-it notes left by thousands of visitors, tourists and digital nomads working in Vietnam . It’s right in the centre of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, this fun and quirky café invites everyone to leave their mark by scribbling notes on the walls .

The notes left on the wall are inspirational, funny, romantic and rude – a lot of fun to read. This is also great for anyone wanting to add some fun photos for the gram because it’s like the inside of my mind – covered in rainbows and random quotes.

I left a few notes of my own, rude, romantic, funny and inspirational. TIP: order a banh mi with your coffee.

Hanoi Social Club

Hanoi Social Club describes themselves as ‘ good food, good space, good music and good people ‘. Which is fairly accurate, to be fair, which is why it has earned one of the top spots on this list as one of the best cafes in Hanoi.

It’s a trendy café right in the centre of the city on Nguyễn Quang Bích Street, this charming café has a cosy vibe and serves, as they suggest, some good food. Don’t miss their signature Vietnamese coffee, served with sweetened condensed milk – the Vietnamese do like their condensed milk, it’s like a happy married.

Try their yummy brunch while enjoying live music performances, it’s definitely a vibe.

Tucked away on Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Cafe Dinh is peaceful, serene and is a nice respite on a hot day from the loud and, at times, raucous city and definitely earns one of the top spots in Hanoi.

This is a locals’ favourite hangout , particularlhyy popular for their coffee art ! Their Vietnamese coffee is pretty strong (just ask for some extra hot water) and take a snap of the panoramic views of Hoan Kiem Lake from their rooftop terrace . The laid-back atmosphere is a good hangout spot for a coffee (or a hot chocolate if you’re like me).

Kone Cafe is located at the Kham Thien – O Cho Dua intersection is one of the best coffee shops in town.

The interior has a minimalistic style design and is a cosy little hideout that you’ll want to visit. It has a limited number of items on their menu which is a good thing, because everything on the menu is brewed to perfection and their unusual coffees are done very well.

Try out their caramel tea macchiato , hazelnut macchiato, yogurt coffee and their peach mojito . Sipping a cup of coffee is well worth the trip to Kone Cafe!

Pho Co Coffee

Tucked away in a hidden alley in the Old Quarter, Pho Co Coffee is a true gem waiting to be discovered and one of the best cafes to try out for sure! To reach this quaint cafe, you must navigate through narrow streets and ancient houses, adding a sense of adventure to your coffee experience.

From the balcony, you can admire the breath taking view of Hoan Kiem Lake while sipping your perfectly brewed Vietnamese coffee.

Cộng Càphê Xofa

For those seeking a secluded courtyard complete with pot plants, hanging branches and fairy lights and a bit of a respite from the city, then I got you covered. This trendy and modern cafe, Cộng Càphê Xofa is a must-visit if you’re visiting Hanoi and looking for a smashing brew . Of course, earning it a spot on the list as one of the best cafes in the area.

Located in the vibrant Ba Dinh district, this cafe has a nice fusion of Vietnamese and Western influences. TIP: try their signature Coffee Trứng (egg coffee) or the refreshing Phú Quốc Coconut Coffee (my personal favourite).

Dui Tri Cafe, Hanoi

Cafe Dui Tri is one of the original Hanoi cafes, having opened over 100 years ago and is definitely worth a visit when visiting Hanoi! It is one of the original Hanoi coffees and it has a fabulous, authentic vibe, making it one of the best cafes you must try.

Tranquil Books & Coffee

Hidden amongst the (at times) chaotic, bustling streets of Hanoi, Tranquil Books & Coffee is a sanctuary for book lovers and coffee lovers, making it one of the best cafes in Hanoi. This cozy cafe boasts a vast collection of books in various languages , creating a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation. Sit back, sip your coffee, and lose yourself in a good book whilst in the vibrant energy of Hanoi.

The last stop on this list belongs to Cafe Nola, an unusual, funky cafe located near St. Joseph’s Cathedral, full of colourful umbrellas , mismatching tables and chairs , and comfy cushions. This hidden gem is perfect for a cosy little pick me up while enjoying the view of the cathedral.

Hanoi House Cafe & Cocktail Bar

Another one that shouldn’t be missed! This one has a rocking atmosphere; think live music, retro decor and a buzzing vibe. Listen to live artists playing their favourite song and you’ll be having a great time, whether your drinking cocktails or some spectacular coffee beans.

Hanoi’s cafe culture is a testament to the city’s history; there are so many stories attributable to the old coffee shops, dating back to the Vietnam war and earlier. The traditional Vietnamese drip coffee is super strong for the coffee heads that want to try it, or there’s the very sweet Vietnamese coffee made with condensed milk.

Whichever way you have it, you’ll have a great time visiting the different coffee shops of Hanoi, Vietnam. Please – do let me know if you manage to visit any of these incredible cafes!

You might be interested in some of my other Vietnam guides :

Best Cafes Hanoi

Hanoi Train Street

Full guide to Hoi An

Things to do in Da Nang

Where to stay in Da Nang

Ho Chi Minh – Things to do

Best Vietnamese Coffee

Quang Phu Cau Incense Village

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Hi, I'm Adriana, a multi award winning UK travel blogger!

I grew up in Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Dubai and England, and I got the travel bug from a young age. I love sharing travel guides so you know the most incredible places to visit and best places to stay.

I go out of my way to find the most beautiful spots in the world so I can share it with all of you!

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Home » Blog » What Are the Best Cafes to Visit in Hanoi, Vietnam?

What Are the Best Cafes to Visit in Hanoi, Vietnam?

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If you’ve never thought much about it, you might wonder why cafes and coffee are such a big part of any travel recommendation in Vietnam, especially Hanoi.

As is so often the case around the world, when something doesn’t quite make sense the way you might think it should, you can blame the French. France is why Kansas and Arkansas are pronounced differently, and it’s why there’s a huge history of coffee in Vietnam that extends to today. Coffee plantations growing the Robusta coffee variety are everywhere around the country, with both classic takes on the beverage and new twists invented in the trendiest cafes in the country. Vietnam is the second-largest coffee producer in the world today, after all.

Coffee lovers visiting Vietnam can quite easily spend their entire trip visiting different cafes with every meal, enjoying a cup of deep, bitter coffee, and soaking in the local atmosphere. From the most subdued, out-of-the-way, classical coffee shops to the hip and trendy cafes, you’re going to have to focus if you want to do anything else in Hanoi.

Don’t get us wrong; there’s a ton to do in Vietnam, whether you’re just sightseeing in the area of Hanoi or taking tours deep into the jungles to experience raw, untamed nature. It’s taking a lot of restraint to just talk about the cafes today, but sometimes that’s just how it goes. If you want a rundown of other things to do in Hanoi specifically or in Vietnam in general , let us know in the comments! We’re always happy to take requests.

Tips for Getting the Best Coffee in Hanoi

If you’re in Hanoi and you want the best possible coffee, what should you look for? Well, to an extent, it depends. There are some cups that will be available pretty much everywhere, but some coffee shops and cafes will have specialties you might want to try instead.

To start with, there’s the classic Cà Phê Sữa Đá , which is Vietnamese for iced coffee. It’s rich and bittersweet since it starts with traditional dark coffee mixed with condensed milk. It’s cold and refreshing, but keep in mind that it’s explicitly an iced coffee, so if you want a hot beverage, try something else.

One of the most popular and unique options is egg coffee. If you’re skeptical, don’t be; it’s not like it tastes like a coffee omelet or anything. Whipped egg yolk adds richness, and the beverage usually comes with condensed milk as well, even though the origin was during milk shortages when the egg was used for creaminess instead.

Another option is yogurt coffee . Yogurt adds a bit of tang and a lot of thickness, so you’re essentially getting a coffee smoothie. The tangy sour notes to the beverage make it a great contrast to the usually sweet-bitter combination of most of the other beverages.

You can also get coconut coffee all over the city. A rich coconut cream slush with coffee poured over it makes for a much more toned-down beverage that tickles the sweet tooth of all who have it.

Finally, there’s always the plain old classic Ca Phe Nong , which is just plain deep dark black coffee. Beware; it’s some of the strongest coffee you’ll likely have tasted, but if it’s the taste you’ve acquired, you’ll find it hard to order anything else.

Regardless of what you get, one key thing to remember is that the coffee in Vietnam has roughly twice the caffeine as the coffee you’re probably used to, so enjoy it in moderation unless you’re very caffeine tolerant or otherwise a huge coffee drinker in the first place.

Is Travel to Hanoi Safe?

There are a lot of different, strong impressions of Vietnam, depending on who you talk to. Some people view it as little more than a dangerous jungle. Others see it as a thriving and growing hub of manufacturing. Some see it as dirty and dangerous. What’s the truth?

The answer is tricky. Hanoi, in particular, is a big city, and while it’s not “up to code” the way you’d expect cities in the West to be, it’s not some lawless wasteland. The State Department doesn’t have any travel advisories for the country as a whole, so it’s at least better than some areas of the world, and you’re unlikely to be caught in a civil war or anything of the sort.

That said, Vietnam rates pretty high on the lists for petty crime, particularly minor thefts and cons. Bag snatching and other thievery are relatively common. If you’re vigilant and keep your valuables in your hotel safe when you don’t need them, you’re more likely to be fine.

Keep in mind that you’re subject to local Vietnamese laws, and there’s often a delay between being arrested and the embassy even being notified that something happened. Most of the time, you should be fine and won’t have a problem as long as you stay out of trouble.

What Are the Best Cafes in Hanoi?

Enough about all of that, though. You’re not here for travel advisories; you’re here for recommendations! So grab your coffee budget, get ready to wander the town, and whet your appetite for coffee as you read through this list of the best cafes to visit in Hanoi.

Hidden Gem Coffee

Sometimes, the name for a place fits so perfectly that you can’t imagine it being named anything else. Hidden Gem is truly hidden; you have to follow something almost like a treasure map just to find the place, and once you’re there, you find yourself immersed in an oasis of recycled materials, art, and repurposed items.

It’s surprisingly large, bright, and vibrant, with interesting things to see, and their coffee is top-notch. They also have a variety of other menu items that are definitely worth trying.

Café Dinh, along with its sibling café, Café Giang, are both owned by the sibling descendants of the original inventor of egg coffee. Since egg coffee is one of the local specialties, it makes sense to try getting it from the place where it all started, right?

Both cafes are great options for this beverage in particular, but there’s no reason not to try both if you’re in the areas where they’re located.

Loading T Café

Located on the second floor of an old French colonial building, this is an interesting little venue and it’s a great place to visit to see just how out of the way some of these cafes can be.

Like Hidden Gem, it’s a unique little place to order a beverage and hang out for a while. They also have an interesting coffee where they roast cinnamon alongside the beans, infusing the coffee without having to add the spice later.

Located right in a hub of cafes and restaurants, Kone café is a minimalist café that stands out compared to the maximalism you see pretty much everywhere else in the country.

You won’t have to go far if you want to café-hop from place to place, either, making this one good café to start a day or end up at after a series of experiences you won’t soon forget.

Atelier Coffee

This is one of the more modern coffee shops and has a feel a lot more like a foreign Starbucks, though, of course, it’s not actually anything like Starbucks.

It’s a smaller shop, and it’s popular enough that you might not get the chance to sit and enjoy your drink, but ordering a beverage to sip outside isn’t a bad plan either. They also have a variety of specialty drinks and other kinds of Vietnamese beverages if the same selection of coffees isn’t quite what you’re looking for.

Ca Phe Duy Tri

This is not a hidden coffee shop, but it is a little out of the way of the main drag and the more tourist-centric areas of Hanoi.

It’s also been open since 1936, offers coffee made from three different kinds of beans, and is one of the most popular shops among the locals. It’s a star of many coffee tours, as well, though you don’t need a tour to visit.

Tranquil Books & Coffee

Tranquil Books & Coffee gives you a very strong feeling like you’re in one of those local bookseller cafes because, well, you are.

Have some coffee and hang out at a table while surrounded by a calm, peaceful, book-scented atmosphere. Amid the hustle and bustle of a busy Hanoi street, it can be wonderful to just step into an oasis of calm.

This is a relatively new coffee shop that has existed for less than a decade.

It’s meant to be a relaxed and laid-back café and calls itself a safe haven and hideaway to relax outside of the busy streets and constant noise of the rest of the city. It has an almost library-like feel to it despite not being a book-based café like some of the others on this list.

Cong Ca Phe

Unlike everything else on this list, Cong Ca Phe is actually a chain. You can kind of think of it as the Vietnamese equivalent of Starbucks or another chain café, but since coffee is such a local institution, it’s hard to call it bad in any way.

Think of it this way: you’ll see the name and their branches all over the country, and that might make you think it’s just a low-quality chain, but don’t let that dissuade you.

Hanoi Coffee Station

This is a coffee shop in the old quarter of Hanoi, and it’s up some stairs. What makes it great to visit? Two things.

First, they have a renowned and famous peanut butter coffee that is decadent and delicious. Second, with their height, their balcony offers you an incredible view over the busy city streets below, so you can see from above what you’re usually experiencing firsthand.

Do You Need a Coffee Tour to Visit the Best Cafes in Hanoi?

Above we mentioned that some of these cafes are stars of the coffee tours. Which means that there are city tours led by local guides taking you through a variety of different coffee houses and cafes. The question is, are those tours worthwhile?

The answer here is tricky. If you don’t feel confident in planning your own café excursion, then sure, book a local guide and see where they take you. On the other hand, many of the common tours and the most easily located guides are just going to take you to the bigger names, which you can find all over Instagram and in blog posts like this one. Hidden Gem might be out of the way, but when every tour guide in the city knows about it, you’re not exactly going to miss it, right?

To be clear, there’s nothing wrong with taking a tour, and some tour guides have fascinating insight and stories about the places they take you that you won’t get otherwise. Some even have the hookup to get you unique demonstrations from baristas and owners. Others, though, might not add much to the experience, so it can be hit or miss.

Really, it comes down to whether you’re in it to visit as many unique and interesting cafes as you can or if you just want to find a nearby café after whatever other tourism or work you’re doing in the area.

Your Recommendations

We listed ten excellent cafes you can find throughout Hanoi, but there are hundreds more, and even that might only be scratching the surface. Have you visited Hanoi and checked out the coffee shops here, there, and everywhere? If so, why not leave us your recommendation for the top cafes you’ve visited? We’d love to see what you think.

Hanoi is a wonderful and unforgettable experience, and it’s definitely an interesting place to be. There’s so much to see and do, from the street food to the iconic railroad street, to the large-scale architecture and man-made wonders, to the scale and beauty of nature all around. It’s simply excellent, and we hope you have an incredible time.

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20 Best Cafes in Hanoi – Ultimate Hanoi Coffee Guide

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This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

It’s gunna be a big ‘un! There are so many cafes in Hanoi that I barely know where to start. The coffee in Hanoi is one of the MANY fantastic things about Vietnam ‘s vibrant capital. Pull up a chair and prep for a lengthy guide to the best coffee in Hanoi. It’s hardly my fault there’s so much of it, right? Having been to Hanoi three times, I can confirm these are the best Hanoi cafes to enrich your Hanoi itinerary …

HANOI ESSENTIALS E-sim data plan Copy of Lonely Planet Vietnam Getting there: flight ( Skyscanner ) / train / bus 12GoAsia Pre-book your Hanoi airport to city transfer Accommodation: Booking.com // Hostelworld Tours: GetYourGuide Essential reading: 101 Southeast Asia travel tips

Read next: Hanoi street food guide 

Coffees to try in Hanoi  

Vietnam is coffee mania. I recently learnt that they use the same ratio of robusta (the strong stuff) that Westerners use of arabica (the mild kind) meaning the drinks are literally four times stronger. Now that explains the odd sleepless night and occasional heart palpitation! If you’re spending 2 weeks in Vietnam or longer, a coffee education is necessary so you can sample the best beverages…

Vietnamese coffee (caphe den / caphe sua)

Some of the best coffee in Hanoi will be dripping through a filter as we speak. You can’t beat a slow-brewed cup of  caphe den (black coffee) or a sweet and creamy caphe sua  made with condensed milk.  There’s none of that Western-style grabbing your coffee and marching to the office for 8.59am – here in Vietnam, there’s dripping, chatting and watching the world go by. And what a world it is when Vietnamese coffee’s in it!

Now here’s a drink that should make your Southeast Asia bucket list ! HOT RAW EGG?? Westerners shudder. Health inspectors reel. Rose downs five. Here I end any negatives insinuations about egg coffee. Tiramisu in a glass, friends! A former bartender of the Sofitel Hotel decided to open his own coffee shop in the wartime era when milk was sparse. It was an upgrade: sweet, creamy egg coffee is the biz.niss. He’s sadly passed away since but I know his kids’ cafes so let’s get you the best egg coffee in Hanoi, yes!?

Read next: Finding the best egg coffee in Hanoi

For a fun activity led by locals, try a Hanoi egg coffee tour inc cyclo ride !

Coconut coffee

For a drink with more intensity than chronic insomnia, try coconut coffee. It might be the best damn coffee in Hanoi if not our solar system! Caffeine and sugar levels are through the roof when it comes to coconut coffee so keep it to the mornings, okay? Frozen coconut milk is mixed with rich black coffee and topped with shaved coconut ice. Who needs low cholesterol anyway?

Where to drink the best coffee in Hanoi

Okay, we all clued up on the types of Vietnamese coffee? If so, I’ll run through the best Hanoi cafes to visit. Did you know there’s a coffee street in Hanoi? It sprung up after the War ended once people had time and money for socialising again. What an unimaginable feeling that must have been after years of rationing! The name of the coffee street in Hanoi is Nguyen Huu Huan . For those wanting modern, Instagrammable cafes it’s probably not your hotspot. No problem, we’ll cover those places later. Still, I’d recommend Nguyen Huu Huan as a place to relax as the locals sip caphe sua. Grab a chair and join them, especially at Cafe Giang where the egg coffee son continues his father’s legacy.

The best cafes in Hanoi

Get ready for the list! These are all the spots I hung out during my 2018 trip. They’re some of the best Hanoi cafes for a mix of reasons: some are authentic pre-war family businesses with secret patented recipes; others are pink and begging to be live-streamed onto that app. No judgement, friends, we have time and space for both!

Cafe Dinh (authentic egg coffee in Hanoi)

Cafe Dinh is such a FIND . The owner was none other than the egg coffee inventor’s daughter. I far prefer this spot to the son’s cafe, especially as it’s nowhere near as busy.

How to find Hanoi’s Cafe Dinh

• Find it along Đinh Tiên Hoàng, close to Hoan Kiem Lake. I’ve pinned it  here but the outside just looks like a bag shop so you’ll need to look for this sign with green lettering reading ‘Cafe Dinh’.
• Tang 2 means floor 2 so walk to the back and up the metal staircase which looks like you’re breaking and entering (and climbing a mild health and safety hazard).
• Persevere ’til you find it – it’s truly one of the best cafes in Hanoi for an authentic experience!

Is it cowork friendly? The tables are low and I don’t think work is really the focus here.

Loading T (a beautiful setting)

This modern coffee shop is a Hanoi hidden gem , nestled inside a crumbling French mansion. It has to be one of the cutest and best cafes in Hanoi’s Old Quarter! Loading T joins a collection of local businesses in this charismatic building. Mai and I sat outside during our coffee tour and looked down on the street, but if it’s a hot day I’d recommend sticking to the inside aircon. I tried the coconut coffee at Loading T and I can confirm it was a good one. Is it cowork friendly? Yes. The inside room is airconned and hidden away from the busy street. I didn’t work here but it looked like a decent spot for it. Loading T address: 8 Chân Cầm, Hàng Trống.

Hanoi Coffee Station

Another cute cafe not far from Cafe Dinh is Hanoi Coffee Station known for its traditional interior and modern brunch dishes (like avo toast and smoothie bowls). It’s inside a pretty yellow building with a shop below. The staircase to the upper floor is not at all glam but the characterful cafe itself is worth the climb. There are cute coffee stencil art on the walls and a wonderful balcony with views of the city. They serve all your usual Italian coffees plus Vietnamese options like coconut and egg coffee and quirky specials like peanut butter coffee! I’m keen to try their pineapple and coffee espresso mix.

Floral & Book Cafe (a bit of everything)

Coworking space? Check. Friendly cafe for catch-ups? Check? Bookworm paradise? Check. What a gem! I’d never have known about Floral & Book Cafe if I hadn’t attended a painting class held inside (the story of my complete hopelessness at art is one for another day!). There’s a florist on floor one and a cafe upstairs with various rooms. One room has cowork -friendly desks, while smaller private tables are hidden between book-laden shelves. It’s one of the best Hanoi cafes for its variety – you could come here for work, socialising or me-time/reading. I was buzzed from two flat whites already that morning so had an avocado smoothie instead. Yum. Is it cowork friendly? Yep! It’s busy but not too loud. Floral Book Cafe address: 26 Hàng Vôi, Lý Thái Tổ.

Ca Phe Duy Tri (one of the Hanoi coffee originals)

Some of the best coffee in Hanoi can be found at Ca Phe Duy Tri in Truc Bach . Operating since 1936, it’s one of the oldest cafes in Hanoi and has patented its 75-year-old coffee recipe. Nowadays, the same family serve caphe sua and yoghurt coffee, an unusual blend of caffeine and tangy yoghurt that I quite enjoyed. It’s a real no-frills, traditional cafe that tells the tales of Hanoi’s past. Nothing on the menu costs more than 40k VND. Is it cowork friendly? No. I guess 1930s-style doesn’t reaaally cater for that! Cafe Duy Trí address: 43A Phố Yên Phụ.

Cafe Giang (famous egg coffee in Hanoi)

While the first cafe in this blog was set up by the daughter of the egg coffee founder, this spot belongs to the son. It’s widely renowned as the best egg coffee in Hanoi though I preferred Cafe Dinh for its secret feel. At Cafe Giang , I opted for the iced version of egg coffee and it was very sweet and easy to drink but I didn’t get the bitter strength of the hot variety. I’m not sure if this was due to my order or the cafe – maybe I should have stuck to the same drink to compare!

Is it cowork friendly?  No. It’s busy and noisy. Trying egg coffee is the focus so I’d say pop in then work elsewhere. It’s one of the best cafes in Hanoi to make friends due to the shared tables – I got chatting to two locals who gave me valuable Hanoi advice. Cafe Giang address: 39 Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm.

Xofa Café & Bistro (the best coconut coffee in Hanoi)

At 70k VND for a coconut coffee, you’d hope it was the best coconut coffee in Hanoi, right? In contrast to some of the authentic, old-fashioned spots above, Cafe Xofa is a modern hang out perfect for socialising and working. There’s a chilled terrace area or an air conned interior with bookshelves, pianos and other quirky furnishings. Is it cowork friendly? Yes, although the music and various groups meant I had to exercise more focus than at other places. On your left as you enter is a comfy desk and bookshelf which put me in work mode. There’s also a spacious room upstairs at the back which is quieter. Xofa Café & Bistro address: 14 Tống Duy Tân, Hàng Bông, Hoàn Kiếm.

Hanoi Social (also beautiful brunches!)

Love me a bit of Hanoi Social ! It may be a Western joint but the low-lit interior and classic details catapult you back to wartime Hanoi. It’s one of the best cafes in Hanoi for your basic but oh-so-necessary flat white fix. You can’t beat it. Is it cowork friendly? In the afternoon or morning, yes but around lunch it’s quite loud and busy. Hanoi Social address: 6 Ngõ Hội Vũ, Hàng Bông, Hoàn Kiếm.

Eden Coffee (Instagram fave)

Hello, Rose’s future dream home! Cafe Eden is surely the best cafe in Hanoi for blowing up your Instagram, am I right? There are various floors all more fabulous than the last. The waiter even said to me as I took photos on floor one, ”you should probably go upstairs and see the balcony.” He knew my game! It was a day where I’d already ODD-ed on caffeine so I went for a virgin Mojito at Cafe Eden. Bliss.

Is it cowork friendly? Not massively. The music was too loud in the main cafe so I went into the quieter room with the elephant on the wall. Here there were no regular tables just floor cushions so it wasn’t very comfortable to sit with a laptop. Finding Cafe Eden: Head to 2 Nhà Thờ, Hàng Trống. It’s a bit confusing if you follow Google Maps. Instead, stand in front of St. Joseph’s Cathedral so that you’re facing it, then find Cafe Eden hidden in the top left corner.

Tranquil Books and Coffee (best co-working cafe in Hanoi)

After Cafe Eden, this spot may seem dull to some. The vibe at Tranquil Books  is erm… tranquil and full books! It’s also a strong competitor for the best coffee in Hanoi and an overall dream for those working. As well as Western-style coffees, they serve a solid variety of Vietnamese ones. There’s something for everyone, apart from those who want to laugh or shout loudly and get shunned from this peaceful oasis… Is it cowork friendly? Absolutely! Tranquil Books and Coffee: 5 Nguyễn Quang Bích.

Maison de Tet (most healthy + beautiful cafe in Hanoi)

Hi paradise! Like Loading T, this spot is a repurposed French mansion with loads of space and gorgeous views over Westlake. The vibe here is chilled and ornate, a totally peaceful alternative to the busy scooter-lined streets outside. The menu is a good balance of healthy bowls (with falafel, avocado etc), Western brunches and upmarket Vietnamese dishes. You can’t deny Maison de Tet is expensive: I paid 70k VND for an iced flat white and 180k for eggs benedict. Saying that, it’s no more pricey than Xofa (mentioned above) and far more of an experience.

Is it cowork friendly? Yes. There were plenty of groups here but with so much space no one really bothered me. The playlist was full of slow numbers including Easy Like Sunday Morning – so chill. Maison de Tet Decor: 26 Phố Quảng Bá, Quảng An.

Bluebird’s Nest (another co-working fave)

With a similar vibe to Tranquil Books, this cafe is even cosier and better for me-time or coworking. Even if you just fancy a read, I’d imagine the shelves are full of knowledge and entertainment at  Bluebird’s Nest . Cat lovers should keep an eye out for the friendly (if slightly scruffy) felines lounging in paper trays and sleeping in patches of sunlight. Tổ Chim Xanh – Bluebirds’ Nest address: 19 Đặng Dung, Quán Thánh .

Cong Caphe (Hanoi’s famous cafe franchise)

Leaving the subject of small one-off cafes far behind, enter Cong Caphe . This Communist-chic coffee chain is awash with military details and found all over Hanoi. While everyone has heard of Cong Caphe nowadays, five years ago there were just two branches and it was relatively underground. It was briefly shut down because they printed their menus on Lenin’s texts and were accused of mocking the revolutionary leaders. Not long later they were back, having rebranded enough to be deemed appropriate. I’m glad they did because they serve some of the best coffee in Hanoi – the iced coconut variety is to die for!

The interior alone a reason to visit Cong Caphe. It’s quirky and tells the story of days gone by. Check out these Hanoi cafe branches:

• 32 Dien Bien Phu – one of the first branches to open
• 46 Trang Tien – a central branch with inside and outside seating

Is it cowork friendly? If you don’t visit a busy Old Quarter branch, then yes.

Note Coffee (fave Instagram cafe in Hanoi)

Note Coffee is not a traditional purveyor of recipes handed down through the ages. But when Instagrammable locations are concerned, who cares? This colourful corner beside Hoan Kiem Lake was undoubtedly made with social media in mind. Every inch is packed with colourful, heart-shaped Post-its featuring inspirational messages and hellos from past guests. It’s also one of the best cafes in Hanoi for views over the street and Hoan Kiem Lake. Cowork friendly? Not really. Too many excited guests posing! Note Coffee Hanoi address: 64 Lương Văn Can, Hàng Trống.

Other Hanoi cafes I didn’t make it to

I have a few other Hanoi cafes pinned that I’ll definitely check out next time I’m in town. These include: Cafe Nola: Closeby to Hanoi Bia Hoi Corner, you probably won’t have noticed by tiny hidden coffee shop. But it’s cosy and intimate with the feel of being inside a local’s house. They also serve a coffee cocktail which is a serious reason to visit. Baked by Julie: I can’t personally vouch for the quality of this cafe but I can assure you the exterior and interior are total Insta goals. The pink flower-laden outside of the cafe may draw you in and you won’t be disappointed because it looks just as adorable inside. Julie serves photo-perfect coffees and equally aesthetically pleasing baked goods. Serein Cafe: With rooftop views out over Long Bein Bridge, this spot is a little different to the other Hanoi cafes. You can sit on the balcony with a coffee and watch sunrise over the river. They serve cocktails as well as tea and coffee so I’ll definitely be visiting next time. Hanoi House Cafe & Cocktail Bar – coffee and cocktails, what more could you want? If it’s views from the balcony, then this spot ticks all the boxes. Circle Coffee Bar – this cafe is another aesthetic drea serving both cocktails and coffee! It’s a hidden gem tucked away regular live music. Tranquil Artisan Coffee – with excellent coffee, delicious baked goods and fresh dishes like salads and shakshuka, this is a fantastic place to socialise and enjoy a little me-time.

Told you it was a long guide didn’t I?

I hope you’re feeling clued up on the best coffee in Hanoi and which cafes to sample it at. There are a million and one other Hanoi coffee shops not mentioned here so I’ll just have to plan my fourth trip to try them all!

Thanks for reading my Hanoi cafe guide

Check out some of my other Hanoi posts:

• Complete Hanoi itinerary
• The ultimate Southeast Asia backpacking route
• How to plan a solo trip to Vietnam
• How to spend 2 weeks in Vietnam
• The best things to do in Southeast Asia
• 9 hidden gems in Hanoi
• Complete guide to Hanoi street food
• Neighbourhood guide: Truc Bach, Hanoi
• Visiting Train Street Hanoi
• Neighbourhood guide: Ngoc Ha Hanoi
• The ultimate Vietnam travel guide

See you next time for more adventures,

For more content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

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Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

7 thoughts on “ 20 Best Cafes in Hanoi – Ultimate Hanoi Coffee Guide ”

These pics are great. This guide is great (and is bookmarked for my next visit). Your written voice is great. Simply gorgeous. Okay, bye, I’m done.

The interiors of these cafes look just as good as the coffee! After living in Melbourne I’ve became a little coffee obsessed so I definitely need to head to Hanoi. Coconut coffee sounds like a dream!!

I’m an espresso kind of a person but this hot raw egg thing looks great!

I never knew so many varieties of coffee even existed..very interesting and informative post.

omg I am definitely going to that first egg coffee place you mentioned! nothing is better than a place completely hidden

Wonderful coverage of coffee in Hanoi! We just returned from our 1st time in Vietnam and we concur on the egg coffee; was forced to try it on a Hanoi food tour SO it was scary but so delicious!!!!

Amazing I know!

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10 Popular Cafes in Hanoi That You Should Visit

Apart from the beautiful and astonishing natural landscape, Vietnam is also known as the 2nd largest coffee exporter in the world. Therefore, indulging in Vietnamese coffee culture is a must-do thing during a trip to Hanoi . In this article, we made a list of top 10 popular cafes in Hanoi that you should visit.

1. The Note Coffee

The Note Coffee is a café with unique concept that is located right on the street overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake. The space is as the same as the name, filled with notes and notes and notes. The shop is full of Post-it notes with thousands of messages from customers which makes this cafe famous on Instagram. When you order a coffee, the staff will bring you a pen and Post-it note. You can write anything on this small piece of paper and stick it anywhere in the café. This is a pretty good way for customers to save memories. Don't forget to look up at the ceilings in the bathroom as even there you will see colorful papers. Staff is also very enthusiastic and hospitable. The beverages here are good even if the price of drinks is slightly higher than at many other cafes.

Opening hours : 6:30 – 23:00

Price level : $$

Location :  64 Lương Văn Can, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

2. Café Giang

Café Giang is a legendary cafe that everyone must visit when coming to Hanoi. Located in Hanoi's Old Quarter, this café is quite simple and looks like nothing special but it's important to come here to enjoy Egg Coffee called Cà Phê Trúng in Vietnamese. Mr. Giang, the founder of this café, is a former bartender of a 5-star hotel Sofitel Legend Metropole who made the original of Egg Coffee. The space in Café Giang is quite limited but it attracts crowds of guests and the majority of them are foreign customers. A cup of good quality Egg Coffee costs only 25,000 VND that is quite cheap if compared to other cafes. Other drinks range from 30,000 VND to 50,000 VND.

Opening hours : 7:00 - 22:00

Price level : $

Location :  39 Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội  

3. Cafe Dinh

Café Dinh is one of the best places to try Egg Coffee in Hanoi . Café Dinh was founded by Mrs. Bich, the daughter of Mr. Giang, so the quality of popular drinks like Egg coffee can be expected the same as at Café Giang. This old-fashioned small cafe is located on the second floor of the old house. The highlight of this café is the view of the lake that opens up from the balcony even if these seats are almost always occupied. The drinks offered here is mainly coffee, but Café Dinh also has a super delicious cacao egg that is suitable for anyone who cannot drink bitter coffee. Snacks on offer are sunflower and pumpkin seeds. Drinks here are quite cheap as the average price ranges from 20,000 VND to 30,000 VND. 

Opening hours : 7:00 - 21:30

Location : 13 Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

4. Hopper Koffie

Hopper Koffie is a small pretty café located near Truc Bac Lake. The café is a little bit out from Hanoi Old Quarter making the atmosphere here quite peaceful. This café has a wide variety of creative beverages, from coffee, fresh juices to mock tails and the drinks that are popular among young people now such as mojito. Espresso coffee here is also voted as the best in town. If anyone has some online work to do, Hopper Koffie is a good working space as well.

Opening hours : Daily 24 hours

Location :  116 Phố Trấn Vũ, Trúc Bạch, Ba Đình, Hà Nội

5. Cong Caphe

If you have no idea where to go and grab some coffee to chill with your friends, consider to visit Cong Caphe . Cong Caphe is a communist themed café decorated in the dominant brown color with wooden furniture combined with old photos of Hanoi. The staff at the cafe is dressed in military green uniforms. Five years ago, there were only 2 branches of Cong Caphe that were just underground cafes as once the café was even temporarily closed because they were accused of mocking the revolutionary leader. However, now there are more than 60 branches throughout Vietnam. Currently, Cong Caphe has 7 branches in Hanoi. The first branch in Vietnam was Cong Caphe - Dien Bien Phu ( 32 Điện Biên Phủ, Điện Bàn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội ). The café has a wide selection of drinks. The coconut coffee, which the first originated from here, costs 40,000 VND and is always one of the most popular drinks in Cong Caphe.

Opening hours : 7:30 - 23:30

Location : 32 Điện Biên Phủ, Điện Bàn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội

6. Café Nhasan

Café Nhasan is one of the most unique cafes in Hanoi. The cafe is converted from a traditional house of North Vietnamese people so everything is antique and wooden with an old-fashioned style. Although the cafe is located away from Hanoi Old Quarter, you can come here by visiting the nearby Ethnographic Museum. The cafe is large and cozy so you can find yourself a very private space here. Around the café there is a small courtyard decorated with utensils, ranging from old furniture, statues and kitchenware. Sometimes there are live music shows and various exhibitions.

Opening hours : 8:00 - 23:00

Location :  Ngõ 462 Đường Bưởi, Vĩnh Phú, Ba Đình, Hà Nội

7. Loaded T Café

Loaded T Café is another secret cafe in Hanoi Old Quarter. If you won't notice, you may just walk pass because the café is located on the 2nd floor of an old French colonial building. The interior is decorated with retro tiles, red brick walls and beautiful old furniture. The atmosphere at the café is peaceful with the old French music playing along. You can easily spend 2-3 hours here. Aside from serving Hanoi's famous egg coffee, the specialty here is the roasted cinnamon coffee beans used for creating various drinks.

Opening hours : 8:00 - 22:00

Location :  8 Chân Cầm, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

8. Xofa Café & Bistro

Xofa Café & Bistro is ideally located in the heart of Hanoi Old Quarter on Tong Duy Tan Street, which has many eateries that are open overnight. The space has a garden with two two-story houses and a wide range of seating options, including sofa. This coffee shop was opened with the purpose of creating a homely atmosphere for customers. The atmosphere inside the café is quiet and relaxing. The prices of food and drinks here are quite high, as the cheapest drinks are sold at 60,000 VND. The most popular choice here is the coconut coffee, priced at 70,000 VND. The shop is open 24 hours, so you can come here to sit back, relax, work or take a nap whenever you want.

Opening hours : Open 24 hours

Price level : $$$

Location :  14 Tống Duy Tân, Hàng Bông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

9. City View Cafe

City View Cafe Hanoi is a popular cafe for both tourists and locals. The café is located on the upper floor of an iconic building in the city center of Hanoi right next to Hoan Kiem Lake. This café is located on the 5th floor but there are a number of cafes on different floors. Lovely views open from City View Cafe as here you can have a great view of Hanoi Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. This café sells both food and beverages, so it's a great place to dine with friends and family after traveling around Hanoi and sip coffee in the evening. Expect the prices here to be slightly higher than at other local places but considering the location and views it’s really worth it.

Opening hours : 8:00 - 22:30

Location :  7 Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

10. A Little Hoi An - Coffee & Tea

If you have never been to Hoi An, try going to A Little Hoi An - Coffee & Tea . As the name suggests, this cafe will make you feel like you are in Hoi An despite being in the center of Hanoi. The café is located right on Hang Trong Street, amidst the hustle and bustle of the capital city. The café has 3 floors and on the top floor there is a balcony with a view of Hang Trong Street. The atmosphere here is really very charming as the cafe is beautifully decorated with vintage yellow and colored walls, colorful Hoi An lanterns and some pretty small vases. This café offers traditional coffee and various kinds of fruit teas. The beverages cost around 40,000-50,000 VND per cup.

Opening hours : 9:00 - 23:00

Location : 19 Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

Coffee Tours

You can explore Hanoi's hidden cafes and try a variety of distinct coffees in unique cafes around the city by joining Coffee Lovers Walking Tour in Hanoi . 

If you want to try delicious local food such as Pho, desserts, fruit juice and famous Egg Coffee in Hanoi , don’t miss out on the fun Old Quarter Food Tour .

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Hanoi's Train Street - A Complete Guide

Visit Hanoi's Train Street nestled in the Old Quarter of Hanoi for a rush of adrenaline as the train rushes by just inches away from you!

Hanoi's Train Street, in the Kham Thien, Le Duan, Phung Hung neighborhood of Hanoi, is an ancient street with a railroad track running through. This is a unique and famous destination that both domestic and international tourists eagerly talk about and visit for a unique experience.

Hanoi's Train Street once appeared on the DailyMail UK in April 2014. Since then, this location has become a "hot" check-point for visitors of Hanoi.

On TripAdvisor, Hanoi's Train Street is ranked second among 107 interesting attractions in Hanoi. Tourists, whether visiting during the day or night, have incredibly interesting experiences awaiting the moment when the train rushes by just inches away from them. If you have ever read famous writer Thach Lam's work "Hai dua tre" (The two children), you will likely experience the suspense and excitement waiting for the train like the children did in the story.

A bit of history

The story of the surprising Train Street in Hanoi begins in the 1930s. At that time, Vietnam was part of Indochina, a French colony. The French colonists were completing the construction of a railway line connecting the north and south of present-day Vietnam, which was then the trans-Indochina railway.

Today, the railway line still exists and trains still traverse the country. The Hanoi's Train Street  is only one section of the long railway. It is a very narrow path with a railway track where trains pass by just inches away from houses and shop fronts.

In some streets of the Old Quarter, house doorsteps dangerously border the railway that goes through this neighborhood on its way to the Long Bien Bridge.

The “Heritage Journey” from Hanoi train station to Gia Lam train station

From 11/07/2023 to 11/26/2023, Vietnam Railways organized two train journeys named "Heritage Journey" from Hanoi station to Gia Lam train station, with a ticket price of 20,000 per trip.

The "Heritage Journey" is an activity within the framework of the Hanoi Creative Design Festival 2023. The program includes art exhibitions and a 10-minute train journey from Long Bien station to the Gia Lam station, an industrial heritage of the capital. From Gia Lam station, tourists can walk to the Gia Lam Locomotive Factory, where the Hanoi Creative Design Festival 2023 is held. Here, they can explore various architectural structures and the steam locomotive engine named "Tu Luc," an iconic symbol of the railway industry.

The Gia Lam Locomotive Factory was established in 1905 and has nearly 120 years of history. Many young people, after experiencing the train journey from Hanoi to Gia Lam, described it as a "journey back in time".

If you’re interested, read more about the opening of Hang Dau Water Tower within the frameworks of Hanoi Creative Festival 2023:  Hanoi Water Tower Opens To Visitors For The First Time

Where To Find Hanoi's Train Street?

Hanoi's Train Street starts at Hanoi Train Station, but you need to go to Nguyen Khuyen Street to see it. You can stop at No.10 Nguyen Khuyen Street and follow the railway northeast. If you want to get close to the bustling Train Street, begin your journey from No.10 Dien Bien Phu Street. Then follow the railway until you see houses on one side; that's when you'll reach Phung Hung Street. From there, I recommend you go down the main street and continue until you see beautiful murals, which is an Instagram-worthy spot.

From Dien Bien Phu Street, you can see cafes on both sides of the railway, and I highly recommend ordering a cup of egg coffee or a beer can to enjoy while waiting for the train. Some coffee shops display not just their menu but also the train schedule.

Visit Hanoi’s Train Street

Hanoi's train street - a nostalgic beauty.

Returning to the history of Hanoi's Train Street , the single-track railway that runs through the streets of the Old Quarter has existed since the 20th century. For many years, the railway has traversed the capital, quietly blending with the rhythm of the city.

What attracts travelers is that this railway is situated in the middle of and cuts through residential neighborhoods. Even more surprising is that the space between the tracks and the houses is remarkably narrow, just a few steps wide. It is so close that it seems to be able to swallow up the surrounding houses. However, it’s what makes this street so special, I would say. This part of Hanoi has a fascinating architecture made up of new and old houses. If it helps, imagine a beautifully vibrant vintage picture with modern elements here and there.

The life on the sides of Hanoi's Train Street

More than 10 trains pass by every day, with the trains being only about 1-2 meters away from houses and people. As a result, getting around is rather challenging because the streets in this "railway neighborhood" are only wide enough for pedestrians or motorcycles; cars cannot access them.

Residents have spent their entire lives on Hanoi's Train Street and have become familiar with the confined space and the noise and vibrations of passing trains. When there aren't any trains, residents carry out tasks such as drying clothes, washing dishes, cooking, or chatting with neighbors—mainly outdoors and on the railway tracks.

However, they know the train schedules by heart. When the train whistle goes off, life instantly retreats from the tracks to make way for the convoy that brushes past everyone and their houses. That's why, even though it may seem very dangerous, the number of accidents on Hanoi's Train Street is quite low.

For those who have the chance to stroll along Hanoi's Train Street , you may witness local elderly people playing chess, women preparing vegetables for their meals, and children running around or chatting with their neighbors to hear their life stories.

Must-try cafes on Hanoi Train Street

The coffee tables found on Hanoi's Train Street  are often arranged in a way to create a stunning view of the street, allowing visitors to savor their drink while observing daily life unfold around them, each sip of coffee is accompanied by the distant rumble of the approaching train. The cheerful discussions among customers create a special harmony with the mounting excitement. Anticipating the event, coffee shop owners invite their customers to gently move their cups and prepare for the train's arrival.

Each customer, cup in hand, eagerly awaits the unique moment of the train passing by, a multisensory experience offered by Hanoi's Train Street and nowhere else in the world.

Here are some recommended cafes in Hanoi's Train Street :

1. Spot 09 - No. 09 Duong Tau Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

2. Coffee 74 - No. 74 Duong Tau Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

3. 30 Train Coffee - No. 159 Duong Tau Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

4. MER café - No. 48 Duong Tau Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

5. Laika Cafe - 18 Hang Cot Street, Hang Ma, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

6. Hảo Hảo Coffee - No. 80 Duong Tau Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

Hanoi's Train Street Schedule

It's best to be well-informed about the train schedule passing through Hanoi's Train Street  to capture the best photos and experiences.

Monday to Friday: 6:00 AM, 7:00 PM, and 7:20 PM

Saturday and Sunday: 9:15 AM, 11:35 AM, 3:20 PM, 5:45 PM, 6:40 PM, 7:10 PM

Note : Please listen to the people giving directions when the train arrives. Stand close to the wall, behind the red line on the ground, and do not hold your phone or camera too far from your body for your safety. You can stand on the ground or go to the second floor of Tram Coffee. They have built an upper floor for visitors to watch the train from above.

In reality, the schedule is not fixed, and a delay of 15 minutes is usually expected. Therefore, it's better to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time to secure a good viewpoint. You should arrive 30 minutes earlier to choose a café to enjoy while waiting. You can take photos of the railway and houses before the train arrives. Be sure to follow the guard's instructions to ensure railway safety.

In summary, Hanoi's Train Street  is a must-visit site when exploring the capital of Hanoi, thanks to its rustic yet modern beauty. Above all, the Vietnamese government is making every effort to build an interesting and safe place for those seeking beautiful experiences here. When undertaking this visit, travelers must adhere to safety guidelines for a serene journey. So, if you plan to make the most of your visit to Hanoi, make sure to include this attractive destination on your list.

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15 Greatest Cafes in Hanoi (Laptop computer Pleasant)

Let’s speak in regards to the 15 finest cafes in Hanoi. The espresso tradition scene is big in Vietnam and there are a lot of unbelievable espresso homes and cafes excellent for engaged on a laptop computer in Hanoi.

I lately spent a month residing and dealing remotely from Vietnam’s capital metropolis. It’s an superior place that’s vibrant and alive with a combination of tradition, historical past, and fashionable facilities that rightly make it a prime vacationer vacation spot.

Greatest Cafes and Espresso Outlets in Hanoi

I like espresso, and as a digital nomad, I’m at all times looking out for distant working areas to arrange my laptop computer. I’ve compiled this listing primarily based on my experiences hopping round many Hanoi cafes. I’m in search of nice working environments, wonderful espresso, and good meals choices; listed below are my prime 15 spots primarily based on these standards.

1. Blackbird Espresso (Greatest Cafe in Hanoi General)

There are such a lot of to select from however I needed to decide one for the highest spot! I’ve gone for Blackbird Espresso which I discovered to be the most effective cafes to work from in Hanoi. It’s not the largest cafe however there’s ample seating with out it ever feeling cramped.

Set over two flooring with comfy, delicate lighting, avenue views, and durable WiFi, Blackbird Espresso is a well-liked spot with locals and vacationers alike. The common movement of shoppers makes for an upbeat environment that by no means feels too raucous.

In fact, the espresso is great right here too. They’ve varied brewing strategies and even provide a French-Press choice on the menu which is my favourite technique to drink espresso. It’s an excellent cafe for settling down with a laptop computer for just a few hours of labor.

Blackbird Espresso Info

Handle: 5 P. Chan Cam, Dangle Trong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam Telephone: +84389513053 Working Hours: 7 am – 9 pm Mon – Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: Order a French press and sip you’re approach by any busy assignments in a comfy however vibrant setting. Common Price: $1 – $3 Vietnamese and Western-style espresso, $4 – $6 lunch and dinner plates, $1 – $2 candy treats. Web site: Blackbird Espresso – Fb

2. Tranquil Books and Espresso (Greatest Distant Working Ambiance)

In the event you too like to learn however stay on the highway, you’ll know the enjoyment of discovering a great bookstore with English books. Tranquil Books and Espresso is a superb espresso store in Hanoi that mixes nice espresso with an abundance of literature and creates a superb distant working environment.

Surrounded by towering cabinets of books, in a setting that’s extra akin to a library, working from right here is like being again at College however with the distinction of nice espresso and desserts! It’s a really conducive working atmosphere and one which many digital nomads take every day benefit of.

Tranquil Books and Espresso Info

Handle: 5 P. Nguyen Quang Bich, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam Telephone: +84395049075 Working Hours: 8 am – 11 pm Mon – Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: Discover your subsequent can’t-put-down page-turner and revel in it with an enormous vary of espresso choices and brewing strategies. Additionally they promote cocktails and a few nice sweets – the cinnamon rolls are wonderful. Common Price: $1.50 – $2.50 customary espresso, $3 – $4 specialty espresso and brewing strategies, $2 sweets, $4 restricted meals menu. Web site: Cafe Tranquil – Fb

3. The Observe Espresso (Most Distinctive Cafe)

There are some very distinctive cafes in Hanoi however The Observe Espresso takes the highest spot – I’ve by no means seen a restaurant prefer it. Stickers, labels, and Submit-it notes cowl each inch of each wall and create a colourful and stunningly engaging design.

The notes, which even line the window sills and the surface of the constructing, inform little tales of tourists from world wide. Subsequently, The Observe has grow to be a very in style vacationer cease for a photograph alternative and the possibility to depart a brand new notice on the enduring Hanoi cafe.

Loads of working area, free WiFi, and top-drawer espresso and desserts means The Observe can also be a super spot for digital nomads to arrange store for the day.

The Observe Espresso Info

Handle: 4 P. Luong Van Can, Dangle Trong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam Telephone: +84975194466 Working Hours: 8 am – 10.30 pm Mon – Thurs. 8 am – 11 pm Friday. 7 am – 11 pm Sat & Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: You’ll want to get a few cool photographs in such a novel cafe. The person slices of cake and freshly baked pastries are at all times scrumptious. They don’t at all times have macaroons however remember to snap just a few up in the event that they do. Common Price: $1 – $2 espresso, teas, smoothies, frappes, and juices, $1- $2 Banh Mi (little sandwich), pastries, and desserts. Web site: The Observe Espresso – Fb

4. Hanoi Egg Espresso (Greatest Vietnamese Espresso)

Egg espresso, sure, you heard me proper. It’s a conventional Vietnamese drink that’s massively in style amongst Hanoi locals. The perfect cafe in Hanoi to attempt it and different native espresso concoctions is Hanoi Egg Espresso.

Egg espresso consists of sturdy espresso topped with a creamy, frothy combination made out of egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk. It’s definitely a distinct tackle my normal straight-black Americano!

The cafe is a cute spot with pleasant and educated employees who additionally provide conventional cooking and coffee-making programs onsite.

Hanoi Egg Espresso Info

Handle: 8 P. Gia Ngu, Dangle Bac, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi 08404, Vietnam Telephone: +84966960288 Working Hours: 7.30 am – 10 pm Mon – Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: The egg espresso in fact! If it’s not your factor attempt a Ca Phe Den, served scorching or over ice it’s a brief, sturdy, espresso much like an espresso that may be tailor-made to particular person preferences with sugar and completely different milks. Common Price: $2 – $2.50 Vietnamese coffees, $2 – $2.50 sandwiches, $3 – $4.50 lunch and dinner plates. Web site: hanoieggcoffee.com

5. Espresso A (Greatest Balcony)

With a decor that feels just a little like stepping again in time and a candy balcony that makes for the proper people-watching spot, Espresso A deserves a spot excessive up in your must-visit listing.

In my view, it’s the very best cafe in Hanoi with a view. The balcony overlooks a busy metropolis intersection of pedestrian thoroughfares and 4-way highway site visitors. It’s enjoyable to take a seat with a espresso and watch the chaotic Hanoi metropolis life velocity by.

Inside, Espresso A has an old-world really feel to it that’s turning into much less and fewer frequent in Hanoi’s modernizing social scene. Picket flooring, ornate options, and retro pictures give a glimpse right into a bygone period. Don’t panic although, there’s WiFi!

Espresso A Info

Handle: 02 P. Lan Ong, Dangle Dao, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam Telephone: +84913222640 Working Hours: 8 am – 11.30 pm Mon – Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: Espresso A additionally sells scrumptious ice cream. I’d advocate grabbing a scoop or two on a scorching day and discovering a spot on the balcony to chill down and watch the world go by. Common Price: $1 – $2 coffees, teas, juices, smoothies, mojitos, $1 ice cream.

6. C.O.C Legacy Specialty Espresso (Greatest Specialty Espresso)

In the event you’re critical about good espresso remember to go to C.O.C Legacy Specialty Espresso for the very best specialty espresso in Hanoi. It’s greater than only a cafe, C.O.C is on a mission to show that Vietnamese espresso beans can compete with their overseas counterparts in style and high quality.

I’m no espresso aficionado, however I do know good espresso after I style it and C.O.C is likely one of the finest espresso roasters in Hanoi. The cafe is cute and classy and though the drinks are costly by Vietnamese requirements, the most costly espresso right here continues to be cheaper than your common drip espresso again dwelling.

Handle: 84 P. Dangle Bac, inside the alley, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi 11011, Vietnam Telephone: +84876775636 Working Hours: 7 am – 10.30 pm Mon – Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: That is the place for specialty Vietnamese espresso. The signature drinks comparable to jackfruit espresso and coconut espresso are distinctive choices to not be missed. Common Price: $2 – $3 coffees, $2 coconut cookies. Web site: coccoffee.vn

7. Coffeon Cafe (Greatest Canine-Pleasant Cafe)

I used to be pet sitting throughout a part of my time in Hanoi and discovering cafes welcoming my non permanent canine companion was not at all times straightforward. However Coffeon Cafe is a pleasant spot that enables well-behaved canines and is the perfect place to sit back and/or work remotely.

It has a robust Pokemon theme, which I need to admit isn’t my factor, but it surely provides the cafe a colourful and enjoyable vibe that draws loads of guests. There’s a pleasant patio and balcony space which affords nice avenue views and people-watching alternatives.

In the event you’re all in favour of home and pet sitting in Vietnam remember to additionally learn my earlier article – Tips on how to Turn into a Home Sitter in Vietnam.

Coffeon Cafe Info

Handle: 13 P. Dinh Tien Hoang, Dangle Trong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi 10000, Vietnam Telephone: +84943388663 Working Hours: 9 am – 9 pm Mon – Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: A terrific choice for vegans as there’s at all times a superb collection of vegan-friendly selections accessible comparable to cinnamon rolls and banana chocolate cake. The teas and contemporary fruit juices are additionally wonderful right here. Common Price: $1.50 – $2.50 coffees, teas, juices, smoothies, $2 cookies, desserts, and candy treats. Web site: Coffeeon Cafe – Fb

8. InFact Espresso and Workspace (Greatest Coworking Cafe)

A spot that takes laptop-friendly cafes in Hanoi to the subsequent degree is InFact Espresso and Workspace.

The fashionable setup has an expert fashionable workplace vibe whereas sustaining the relaxed ambiance of a cool cafe. Constructed with distant staff in thoughts, strong and free WiFi, along with ample appropriate seating choices, comes as customary.

InFact is a superb location if you wish to spend some devoted working time in a snug and welcoming atmosphere with good espresso available.

InFact Espresso and Workspace Info

Handle: 342 P. Ba Trieu, Le Dai Hanh, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi 10000, Vietnam Telephone: +84862828342 Working Hours: 8am – 10pm Mon – Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: An ideal location for distant staff to arrange camp for the day. The signature chilly brew is a superb alternative for getting the inventive juices flowing. Common Price: $2 – $3 coffees, teas, and juices.

9. Ocean Cafe (Greatest Seaside Cafe)

In central Hanoi, you gained’t discover any seaside cafes, as a result of there aren’t any seashores! However in case you’re up for touring just a little approach out of city, you could possibly be sat wanting over pristine white sandy seashores and a tranquil blue lagoon, feeling such as you’re one million miles away from the busy Hanoi streets.

It prices about $5 in a taxi to Ocean Park from Outdated City and takes 30-40 minutes relying on site visitors. The fashionable improvement is the place I referred to as dwelling for many of my time in Hanoi. It’s an enormous new city advanced constructed round a man-made lake and seaside.

There are many cool cafes across the bay, however my favourite was Ocean Cafe , it has nice views of the water. It’s a really enjoyable place to arrange a laptop computer or simply chill with a espresso and revel in some peace and quiet with the seaside simply steps away.

Ocean Cafe Info

Handle: Hai Au 1.27 Vinhomes Ocean Park, Gia Lam, Hanoi 10000, Vietnam Working Hours: 7.30 am – 11 pm Mon – Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: Get pleasure from these seaside views with a spread of unbelievable espresso choices with each conventional Vietnamese and Western-style brews on the menu. The smoothies and cocktails are additionally superb and fairly low-cost right here too. Common Price: $1 – $2 coffees, teas, juices, smoothies, $5 – $6 cocktails.

10. Hidden Gem (Coolest Cafe)

In the event you’re in search of a cool espresso store in Hanoi, I like to recommend heading straight for Hidden Gem. It’s a restaurant that has a lot occurring decoration-wise that I’ll wrestle to do it justice in just a few paragraphs. Click on this hyperlink and also you’ll see what I imply.

It’s an excellent atmosphere for an off-the-cuff espresso, just a few hours of labor, and even cocktails within the night. Additionally they have a small and concise menu of wholesome and reasonably priced meals choices.

Hidden Gem is in an excellent location; near a number of of Hanoi’s greatest sights like St Joseph’s Cathedral and Outdated City. It’s the proper relaxation and refueling cease irrespective of the time of day you resolve to cease by.

Hidden Gem Info

Handle: 1 Dangle Mam, Outdated Quarter, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam Telephone: +84962011540 Working Hours: 7 am – 10 pm Mon – Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: There’s a pleasant combine of normal and not-so-standard coffees to attempt however the meals right here is nice. The Eco Kitchen makes wonderful pork spring rolls, a really tasty vegan salad, and scrumptious sandwiches (Banh Mi). Common Price: $1 – $2 coffees, teas, juices, smoothies, beers, $2 – $4 cocktails, $2 – $3 meals choices.

11. Loading T Cafe (Most Grand)

You’ll wrestle to discover a extra spectacular cafe than Loading T in Hanoi. The whole place screams the category and class of a bygone period as big pillars climb to the ceiling and elaborate fantastically patterned tiles enhance the ground.

It’s the sort of place that cares in regards to the sort of porcelain your espresso is served in. The little options and touches amongst the largely uncovered brick decor make it a really comfy and alluring place to spend a great period of time.

Regardless of all this grandeur, Loading T is a pleasant and informal place. The costs are just a little increased than in some locations but it surely’s price it for the fabulous setting.

Loading T Cafe Info

Handle: 8 P. Chan Cam, Dangle Trong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam Telephone: +84903342000 Working Hours: 8am – 6pm Mon – Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: The balcony seats provide nice avenue views and are an excellent spot for individuals watching, be fast they normally get snapped up. There are some fascinating espresso concoctions to attempt, like Banana Espresso, Yoghurt Espresso, and Lime Espresso. Common Price: $2 – $3 coffees, teas, ice-blended drinks, $1 – $2 bakery treats. Web site: loadingtcafe.com

12. Hidden Alley (Greatest Stored Secret)

Because the identify suggests, you’ll actually must seek for Hidden Alley – it took me just a few makes an attempt to search out it! However I’m definitely glad I did. It’s a really cool place tucked away down an alley after which up a not-so-obvious flight of stairs.

It has an excellent rooftop seating space which affords some spectacular views of town. Inside, the decor and vibe lean extra in direction of that of a speakeasy, and actually, cocktails are served after 6 pm. However, through the day it’s a pleasant enjoyable location to work from and the espresso choices are wonderful.

Hidden Alley Info

Handle: No. 9B P. Bao Khanh, Dangle Trong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam Telephone: +84944529643 Working Hours: 8 am – 11 pm Mon – Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: Arrive earlier than 11 am and save 10% on the meals choices. In the event you’ve had your fill of espresso, change to tea – the Cinnamon Orange and Lemon Jasmine choices are two of my favorites. Common Price: $1.50 – $3 coffees, teas, mocktails, and cocktails.

13. All Day Espresso (Greatest Slice of Again Dwelling)

In the event you like espresso served in a thick mug, huge slices of cake, and hearty sandwiches then All Day Espresso is the place for you. This relaxed and cozy Hanoi cafe provides guests a style of Western tradition with its menu and jogs my memory of many unbiased cafes I’ve visited throughout the US .

The chilled vibe is nice for digital nomads in search of a spot to work for the day and the in depth menu vary of meals and drinks will comfortably see you thru breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

All Day Espresso Info

Handle: 37 P. Quang Trung, Tran Hung Dao, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi 10000, Vietnam Telephone: +842466868090 Working Hours: 7 am – 11 pm Mon – Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: The cake slices are scrumptious and generously portioned, my private favourite is the banana chocolate loaf. The latte and cake combo provide between 9 am and 11 pm saves you about 30%! Common Price: $2 – $3 coffees and teas, $6 – $10 sandwiches and foremost meals, $2 – $3 cake slices. Web site: All Day Espresso – Fb

14. Nola Cafe & Bar (Greatest Artwork Cafe)

One other cafe that stamps its uniqueness on Hanoi’s cafe scene is Nola Cafe & Bar. Entering into the labyrinth of this constructing is an expertise unto itself. Quite a few off-shoot rooms, balconies, and courtyards provide loads of variance whereas having fun with a espresso or two.

Each nook is like an artwork gallery with new issues to see and uncover. Nola Cafe is a enjoyable place to easily stroll round. It’s a laptop-friendly cafe too so be at liberty to search out an space that fits your working necessities and make it your workplace for the day.

Nola Cafe & Bar Info

Handle: 89 P. Ma Could, Dangle Buom, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam Telephone: +84977738835 Working Hours: 10 am – 11.30 pm Mon – Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: The extensive collection of canapes is to not be missed. Mini fish tacos, bruschetta, and ham and cheese croquettes are just some of the scrumptious selections accessible from brunch time onwards. Common Price: $1 – $2 coffees, teas, smoothies. $4 – $7 cocktails and draft beers, $2 – $3 canapes. Web site: Nola Cafe – Fb

15. Drop In Cafe (Greatest Cafe on Practice Avenue)

A significant attraction of Hanoi is Practice Avenue. The large practice to Ho Chi Minh Metropolis cuts by town, passing inches from camera-ready spectators who sit on the tiny cafes that line the tracks. If that is too shut for consolation, think about taking just a few steps again and visiting Drop In Cafe.

There are nice views of the practice because it bellows by town and also you’ll profit from being in a restaurant that serves some particular espresso creations. Fanisipan espresso is an indulgent delight and the coconut espresso right here is likely one of the finest I’ve tried in Hanoi.

Drop In Cafe Info

Handle: 163 P. Phung Hung, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam Working Hours: 8 am – 10.30 pm Mon – Solar. Should-Strive Gadgets: Watch the practice lower by Hanoi while attempting just a few completely different espresso choices. The Fansipan espresso and coconut espresso are two wonderful drinks on the menu price a attempt. Common Price: $1 – $2 coffees, teas, juices, scorching candies, $1 – $2 croissants and diverse baked items. Web site: Drop In Cafe – Fb

Espresso Excursions in Hanoi

In the event you’re all in favour of delving deeper into Hanoi’s espresso scene and studying extra in regards to the conventional aspect of Vietnamese espresso then there are just a few wonderful excursions and actions to try;

Hanoi Egg Espresso Making Course

The long-lasting Vietnamese espresso is a creamy and indulgent deal with. Discover ways to make it your self and uncover its historical past and significance to Vietnamese individuals. The category comes with a free snack and is an pleasurable and informative technique to spend a morning in Hanoi. Click on right here to guide your class.

Hanoi Espresso Workshop

Transcend simply egg espresso and broaden your espresso data and palate with a guided tasting of 5 distinctive Vietnamese brews. This 3-hour class additionally contains pick-up and drop-off and can go away you feeling like an professional the subsequent time you stroll right into a Vietnamese cafe. Click on right here to be taught extra.

Avenue Meals and Espresso Evening Time Tour

Be guided by night time by Hanoi’s bustling avenue meals scene, sampling and studying the way to make quite a few completely different dishes and Vietnamese coffees. It is a enjoyable technique to see Hanoi at night time and is a superb introduction to the delicacies and occasional scene in Hanoi. Click on right here to guide your tour.

Hanoi Cafes and Espresso Outlets: FAQs

Listed below are some solutions to probably the most generally requested questions on the very best cafes in Hanoi.

There are a lot of wonderful cafes to select from however two of the very best espresso retailers in Hanoi are Blackbird Espresso and Tranquil Books and Espresso. Each serve wonderful coffees amongst nice menu choices and are nice areas for digital nomads to work remotely.

Tipping isn’t typically practiced in Hanoi. Whereas it’s not anticipated, some upscale eating places and accommodations do embody a 5-15% service cost within the invoice. If you wish to present appreciation for distinctive service, a small tip or rounding up the invoice could also be appreciated, but it surely’s non-compulsory.

Hanoi’s Outdated Quarter has the very best cafes in Hanoi. It’s famend for its cafe tradition scene and affords a various vary of conventional and fashionable espresso retailers. The historic neighborhood is crammed with slim streets lined with cafes, every with its personal distinctive environment and specialty brews.

Sure, Hanoi is known for its wonderful espresso. It affords a wide range of conventional Vietnamese espresso kinds, comparable to ca phe sua (iced espresso with condensed milk) and ca phe trung (egg espresso), in addition to worldwide espresso choices. The town is dwelling to quite a few cafes serving high-quality and flavorful brews.

The typical espresso in Hanoi prices between $1 – $2. Though specialty coffees might price extra and conventional Vietnamese espresso from avenue distributors prices much less, a determine underneath $2 buys an honest cup of espresso in most institutions.

Sure, espresso is extraordinarily in style in Hanoi. It’s deeply ingrained within the metropolis’s tradition and every day life. Locals repeatedly collect at cafes to socialize, conduct enterprise conferences, or just get pleasure from a cup of espresso alone or with pals. The town boasts many espresso retailers, starting from street-side stalls to modern fashionable cafes.

Sure, laptops are typically allowed at espresso retailers and cafes in Hanoi. Many institutions present free Wi-Fi and cozy seating, making them in style spots for distant work or examine.

In Conclusion

Properly, I don’t learn about you however I’m definitely prepared for a espresso now. I hope this listing has given you some inspiration to discover Hanoi’s in depth and vibrant cafe scene.

I liked my time in Vietnam’s capital metropolis. It’s an thrilling vacation spot that has a lot to supply guests – particularly in case you’re a espresso fanatic – and digital nomads may have no hassle discovering nice spots to work remotely. Get pleasure from Hanoi!

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Hanoi Train Track Cafe – Top Tourist Attraction In Hanoi

Table of Contents

Hanoi Train Track Cafe Introduction

In Hanoi Capital City, there is a famous destination called Hanoi Train Track Cafe. This place often attracts a large number of tourists coming to discover and check in. Known as a factor for tourism development in Hanoi, many people visit here to experience drinking coffee nearby the railway and observe the daily life of locals.

Today’s article would like to introduce you to Hanoi Train Track Cafe – one of the must-visit places for tourists traveling to Hanoi, Vietnam! You may be interested in our Hanoi tours and Hanoi private cars such as

• Hanoi Shore Excursions
• Hanoi City Tour 1 Day – from 48 USD/ pax.
• Hanoi Street Food Tour – from 40 USD/ pax.
• Cuc Phuong National Park Tour From Hanoi – 38 USD/ pax.
• Hanoi To Halong Bay Private Car – 60 USD/ Sedan.
• Hanoi To Mu Cang Chai Private Car – 149 USD/ Sedan.

Train Track Cafe Hanoi is situated on Phung Hung Street, Hang Ma, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi. However, it is more convenient when you stop on Tran Phu Street because there is a parking area for you. Then, you can walk to Phung Hung Street easily.

The History Of Hanoi Train Track Cafe

Hanoi Train Track Cafe has appeared since the French colonial period. At that time, many workers started to build houses near the railway. Until now, this place has become a beautiful small village with ancient coffee shops.

The small village lasts from Long Bien till the end of Le Duan District. Over 30 years, many generations consider this destination as “ a place to come back home” because their life and childhood were associated with this place.

Especially, cafe Hanoi by train track has soon become a tourist attraction in Hanoi because of its unique scenery. It is truly a cinematic village inside Ha Noi’s capital city.

Plus, Hanoi Train Track Cafe also witnessed several historical milestones in the city particularly, as also in Vietnam generally. In early September 2021, an amount of cafe shops were prohibited and closed for some legal regulations. Also, the major reason is to protect tourists.

So, people were so panicked by several magazines posting articles with the title: “ Hanoi closes railway cafes thronged by selfie-seeking tourists”. However, they were reopened then and are still a hot spot for tourists and young people now.

How To Get To Hanoi Train Track Cafe?

There are different ways to get to Hanoi Train Track Cafe. You can get there by car, motorbike, take a taxi, or by bus. If you rent a motorbike in the Hanoi city center, let’s follow Ton Duc Thang Street about 900 meters and turn to Kham Thien.

Then, you will see the railway cafe Hanoi next to Phung Hung Street. You can park your motorbikes on Tran Phu Street and walk for minutes to get to the railway. The parking is about 10,000 VND.

Things To Do In Ha Noi Train Track Cafe

Check-in and admire the scenery.

The first thing you should not miss when you visit Hanoi Train Track Cafe is to take cool photos and check in here. However, to ensure your safety, there is a train schedule hanging on the wall of cafe shops. Let’s pay attention to it to protect yourself!

Normally, trains will run regularly at night and in the early morning, so it is quiet during the day. There will be more train trips on the weekends. So, the best time to visit should be at night and on the weekends.

Enjoy A Cup Of Coffee

When you visit this place, you will have a lot of amazing coffee shops to choose from. Most of them have old styles with an ancient vibe. There are some cafes that you can refer to:

Café 90 Duong Tau – East Gate

The first cafe you can try visiting is Cafe 90 Duong Tau – Cua Dong. It is located at 26C P. Phung Hung, East Gate, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi. This is one of the most crowded cafes here. Moreover, the cafe shop has a simple and peaceful vibe.

It is quite small with a few chairs outside. However, the menu is very varied and Café 90 Duong Tau – East Gate is a good location to enjoy the scenery and wait for train journeys passing by.

Cafe San Ga 62 – Phung Hung

Situated at 62 P. Phung Hung, East Gate, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Cafe San Ga 62 – Phung Hung possesses a perfect view near the railway to catch the whole scenery of trains. You even can feel the vibration of trains while they are passing by.

MER café 48 Đường Tàu

MER cafe 48 Duong Tau can be found at 48 P. Phung Hung, East Gate, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi. The cafe has an ancient vibe and reminds us of the atmosphere of Hanoi’s 1990s. The shop is beautiful and has good services. This is also an ideal spot to find out about the daily life of locals and the best view of every train.

There are also other cafe shops for you to visit such as Coffee Waitrans 74, 30 Train Coffee, or Hao Hao Coffee – 80 Duong Tau.

Best Time To Visit Hanoi Railway Cafe

You can get here whenever you want if you would like to feel the life and observe the daily activities of locals here. Nevertheless, you should visit the Hanoi Train Track Cafe to have the best photo shots when trains pass by. And you will feel a bit excited to wait for the trains.

Additionally, if you adore shipping a cup of coffee and going to gossip with your friends, the nighttime will be the most suitable. But remember, the trains are only active in the early morning and on the weekends, so let’s consider a convenient time for you!

Hanoi Train Track Cafe is exactly a great place to visit and experience something new in Hanoi. If you have a chance, don’t miss the boat to explore this place! Culture Pham Travel ensures that you will get the best Hanoi City Tour and the most memorable memories ever.

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Anna Sherchand

Solo Female Travel Blog

12 Best instagrammable cafes in Hanoi Vietnam

Looking for the best instagrammable cafes in Hanoi? I got them here for you! Vietnam exports a lot of coffee and one in every two houses run a coffee shop! Some are Instagram worthy, some are questionable. Choices are unlimited so, I pulled my socks, researched, and went into a lot of them to share the best ones here for you.

I also traveled and lived in Hanoi as an ex-pat (about 15 minutes bike ride from Hoan Kiem lake near the temple of literature) for 5 months! So it would be fair to say I have been to hundreds of cafes in Hanoi but not all are worth going to or writing about. So, to save both of our time, here are the 11 best instagrammable cafes in Hanoi that you shouldn’t miss.

Click on the “Address” for the direct link to google maps.

I am also sharing Hanoi travel tips towards the end of this post. It’ll make your Vietnam trip easier and worry less! So keep an eye out for that too.

Read the Hanoi itinerary for 7 days

Here are the 11 best bars in Hanoi you don’t want to miss

• 12 best cafes in Hanoi, Vietnam

1. 6 degrees

2. trill cafe, 3. cafe artisée, 4. eden coffee, pros and cons of living in vietnam, 5. odeon brasserie, 6. the note cafe, 7. nona cafe, 8. mystic coffee, 9. cong caphe, 10. baked by julie, 11. serein cafe, travel tips to hanoi, vietnam, 1. install grab app, 2. arrival/departure in style, 3. unlimited data sim card, 4. multi-day trips, 5. where to stay in hanoi, youth hostel, let me know in the comments- .

It is halfway between Hanoi’s old quarter and Westlake. If you don’t pin it on google maps, you are sure to miss this hidden gem! From the West lake, it takes about a 15mins walk but you can also call a grab or if you are driving yourself, parking is available too. Once you are there (address below), head right into the lift and press 6 degrees. You will be welcomed with warm smiles at the door. Simple decor, big floor, nice balcony views but take the stairs or lift for the floor above. This is where you can get the best open-air West Lake view of Hanoi. I was impressed with the view, food, and my mango juice! Must go cafe when in Hanoi.

Address : 189 Nghi Tàm, Yên Phụ, Tây Hồ, Hà Nội, Vietnam Hours: Monday to Sunday 9 AM – 11 PM Phone: +84 98 524 91 89

Believe it or not, this is the interior of a cafe! Trill is located in the Old Quarter, Hanoi. From the outside, it doesn’t look anything special but once you pass the entrance, fish, and go to the back or upstairs, you are in a lovely little world of Trill. If you are anything like me, you will like their idea of a cafe interior with a cozy bed, unique pieces of furniture, green/white tiles, and plants everywhere.

It was such a refreshing and tranquil place in the middle of hustle and bustle of the Old Quarter. Plus their black coffee and food are awesome! Truly a hidden gem and another must-see cafe in Hanoi. PS: Trill also has a sister restaurant with a swimming pool.

Address : 98 Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam Hours:  Monday to Sunday 8 AM – 11 PM Phone:  +84 24 3203 4999

Everybody who has traveled to Hanoi has seen St Joseph’s Cathedral from the street level. But I wanted to see it from a different angle. This is where I found Cafe Artisee which is only a few steps away from the Cathedral. They do good coffee, cakes and views from the balcony are definitely worth it.

Address : số 21 Phố Nhà Thờ, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam 10000 Hours: Monday to Sunday 7 AM – 11 PM Phone:+84 24 6658 9793

Eden Coffee is perfect if you want a closer look at the mysterious St Joseph’s Cathedral. It is the last cafe on the left of the Cathedral. They also do good coffee and one of the staff also helped me with the language barrier with my grab driver. All the floors are filled with creative wall art, quotes, pretty lights on the rooftops, and quirky furniture. I loved the vibe there. If I had more time that evening, I would have happily worked there on my Laptop. It is another must-see cafe in Hanoi.

Address : 2 Nhà Thờ, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam Hours: Monday – Sunday 8 AM – 10 PM Phone: +84 93 346 6789

Have you ever tried egg coffee? Sounds weird right? Basically, it is traditionally prepared with egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and robusta coffee. When it comes out on your table, it would be a little cold so the idea is to stir it so the coffee and egg white mix. Give it a go here at the Odeon Brasserie, they also have a good selection of wines on the next floor.

Address : 5 Trần Phú, Điện Bàn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, Vietnam Hours : Monday- Sunday 8 AM – 12 PM

I noticed the Note cafe when one of the cafe staff was at the cafe door and waving her hands trying to get people’s attention. She was smiling and friendly. So, I thought I will have a look. You have to order and pay at the entrance and go pick your seat wherever you like over the 3 floors.

Every inch is covered with inspiring notes but don’t worry there is still some space left for your notes! It was cute how they stick a note on your drink. I must say the inside of this cafe is impressive but I think I have seen it somewhere else too maybe it was online ( was it the pizza place covered with the notes in the states?) Either way, this is another cafe, you would have fun checking it out while in Hanoi.

Address : 64 Lương Văn Can, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam Hours: Monday-Sunday 6:30 AM – 11 PM Phone: +84 97 519 44 66

One day while strolling about the old quarter, I bumped into this hidden quaint Nona Cafe. Decorated with vintage types of furniture, interior, and rooftop with hanging faded umbrellas. It seemed like they also run an art exhibition once in a while. It makes me happy to find somewhere so quiet and hidden in the middle of the chaotic old quarter of Hanoi. I could sit there for hours and work. It helps that the whole cafe vibe is Instagram-worthy!

Address : 102-c18 Nguyên Hồng, Láng Hạ, Đống Đa, Hà Nội, Vietnam Hours : Monday to Sunday 9 AM – 10:30 PM Phone:  +84 97 837 88 89

If you would like to be away from the hustle and bustle of Old Quarter then head to Westlake. Grab costs only 25000 VND ($1.50) and you are in the quieter area of Hanoi. When I first found this place, I was so happy I went there two days in a row! You can also jog, run and walk around the lake. There are many other cafes in this lane but I liked their smoothie and the staffs are nice here as well. I recommend heading to the cafe in the afternoon to watch the sunset and have a drink or a smoothie.

Address : 107H Làng Yên Phụ, Yên Phụ, Tây Hồ, Hà Nội, Vietnam Hours: Monday- Sunday 10 AM – 10 PM

Cong Ca Phe has various branches in Hanoi. I really liked the one in Tay ho Lake though. Nice rooftop views of the lake and the interior is unique. In the mornings, you could sit there and work quietly before the crowd starts to come or go up the roof in the afternoon to enjoy the sunsets. I can recommend trying cold coconut coffee and Hanoi coffee aka Vietnamese coffee. They also have branches in Ho Chi Minh city.

Address : 100 Xuân Diệu, Tứ Liên, Tây Hồ, Hà Nội, Vietnam

When I found out, there is this Pink cafe in Hanoi. I had to go to see it for myself and as you can see it really was all pink! They do the beautiful baked goodies, fresh juices, and smoothies. Once again, loved the interior and exterior in this cafe. Only a few blocks away from the train street, it is another must-see cafe in Hanoi.

Address : 193 Hàng Bông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam Hours :  Monday – Sunday 9 AM – 10 PM Phone:  +84 90 407 26 28

The classic setting, rustic interior, and the super good view of Long Bein bridge are what Serein Cafe is all about. The bridge lights up in the evening and the bustling traffic flows by while you sip on a good cocktail or coffee/tea. I recommend visiting during the afternoon for that beautiful sunset view overlooking the bridge and the surrounding areas or at night for that serene moonlight!

Address : Serein Cafe Hanoi 16 Đường Trần Nhật Duật, Đồng Xuân, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam Hours: Monday – Sunday 9 AM – 11 PM Phone: +84 93 644 62 21

Cafe Giang and Hanoi Social Club in the Hoan Kiem lake neighborhood are worth checking out too.

Below are the five important things to consider for making your Vietnam travels that much easier.

First thing first, download the Grab app for transport in Asia. Forget paying overcharged metered taxis, not only in Vietnam but almost everywhere in Asia, everyone uses Grab not Uber. For my readers, here is the discounted ride with Grab (up to VND 30000 off)! Just register using this referral code GRABANNASMATE, and save your hard-earned money.

We all want to save money but if you can arrive in style and convenience (Your professional driver will be waiting for you on arrival with a personal welcome sign) or leave Vietnam in style for only $14 USD. There is no reason not to and you will never have to rush through the public bus again. Book it here.

While traveling, having a data sim card makes everything that much easier. Imagine meeting new friends, and making travel plans together, but missing out on all the convos. We all know having a working phone with the internet is like having a world at your fingertips. Just skip the hassle of looking around, pre-order this unlimited data sim card ($9 USD for 30 days), and receive free delivery to your accommodation as well!  Buy yours here .

After you visit all these muse-see cafes and all the other cool things Hanoi has to offer. Like everyone else, you will probably want to see Halong Bay and Sapa in the north of Vietnam. Experience the karst landscape of Halong Bay on a 2-day cruise, with round-trip transfers from Hanoi. Book it here.

For Sapa, you can book the 2-day/1 night tour that has more value as it comes with the limo ride, village life, and cultural experience. Check it out here.

There are numerous choices when it comes to accommodation from all five stars hotels to hostels. If you are a solo female traveling to Hanoi and looking for accommodation, please read the recent reviews, and check the location to make sure it is exactly where you want to be. For example: If you are visiting for only a few days you may not want to be far away Vs staying close to the old town. And if you are after a relaxing holiday you may prefer the little secluded stay. 

That being said, wherever you stay make sure to book with a legit website such as Booking.com  Most hotels and hostels also offer free WIFI, and some also offer free beers! Here are some places I suggest:

To meet other travelers/backpackers

Drift Backpackers Hostel , Nusmile’s Homestay & Travel , Hanoi Buffalo Hostel , or Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel

Ja Cosmo Hotel and Spa , SOJO Hotel Ga Hanoi , Hanoi Paon Hotel & Spa , Imperial Hotel & Spa , La Sinfonía Majesty Hotel and Spa

Grand Mercure Hanoi , Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel , Aira Boutique Hanoi Hotel & Spa , or Dolce by Wyndham Hanoi Golden Lake

I hope this best cafes in Hanoi guide gave you an idea of the types of cafes in Hanoi. And if you have found one that is not on the list, pls comment below.

• Which best cafes in Hanoi you would like to go to?
• If you missed it earlier, here is Hanoi itinerary for 7 days
• Singapore itinerary for 3 nights 4 days is here
• Check out all the Australia travel guide (Everything you need to know about traveling to Sydney is here)
• Solo travel guide to Brisbane (Gold coast and Insta-worthy places included!
• Exploring Adelaide the best way is a must-read
• Best Australia travel guide to Uluru trip
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26 thoughts on “ 12 best instagrammable cafes in hanoi vietnam ”.

The Note Cafe has to be my favorite of all the cafes just because I love their beautiful outdoors! The top umbrella views looks so intriguing! I would sit there all time!

Absolutely stunning photos! I love the look of the Nona Cafe, sounds like my type of place!

Aww man – I wish I had this list when I was in Vietnam in November 2016! We went to a couple of cafes but they weren’t nearly as cute as the ones on this list. Especially loving that millennial pink one! Too cute!

These cafes look so unique! I would love to visit Vietnam one day. Thanks for sharing!

First of all, Vietnam is gorgeous! The cafes look really nice as well.

What a lovely post with very beautiful pictures. It really makes you want togo there especially if you like cafes.

Those are beautiful cafe’s to visit and honestly, I want to visit all of them because of their different look.

This is such a useful post for me as I am going to visit Vietnam for the second time, in less than a month. I am looking forward to discover all the cute cafes Hanoi has to offer.

Honestly, it is so hard to choose where to go into those cafe’s because they are uniquely beautiful in my own sight.

These all look absolutely stunning! I think I’d have to hit them all – I’m not sure I could pick just a few.

These all look amazing, I am not sure how I would just choose one or two to visit! I like all the healthy looking smoothies though so that might help me make up my mind!

These cafes all look very relaxing. Not sure how I would choose between the 10 of them

I would love to visit here. It looks so beautiful! Thanks for your tips, I will save this for later.

Vietnam is gorgeous, and so are you! Such a nice guide about cafes!

These are all so interesting. I really like the Note Cafe. Thank you for all the pictures. I loved reading this.

The Note Cafe is so adorable! I love little kitschy places like that. They are so full of personality!

Wow, I didnt know there are so many interesting cafe in Hanoi! I was there last March but it was a rushed holiday, less than a week and we rushed to all the tourist attractions and dint have much time to explore the local cafe. This is a good list for my next trip to Hanoi.

All of these places look so incredible! Your pics are gorgeous.

so many recommendations, so many wonderful cafes. photos are beautiful

Great list! I do hope to visit Hanoi soon enough and your list sure if very useful to me for future travels

These cafes look so amazing. I can’t wait to check them out!

My dad and mom have always said it’s gorgeous in Vietnam and now I can see why they feel that way. I’ve never really seen photos of it and your post makes me want to go so I can check out all of these cafes.

I love the look of Cong Ca Phe. I have always wanted to visit Vietnam so I will definitely try and check out some of these cafes.

What a interesting cafe’s in Vietnam but for me i like the Nano cafe seaside its so refreshing and so relaxing the view.

Those are some really pretty frames. I went to Hanoi years back and the city definitely has it’s own charm. These cafes do add a lot to it.

Oh how gorgeous is that view from Nona cafe! And I love the plant filled cafe. I wish we had this eclectic of cafes in my city!

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Top 6 Unique Cafe For Travelers In Hanoi

From the ultimate guides of each destination, secret beauties, amazing things about food and culture to top suggested resorts and hotels, our travel blog is meant to help you travel Asia at ease and experience the best moments there without any hesitation.

“Hanoi has a lot of lovely and charming cafés, but each of them has a unique style and their own charm.” – One of my foreign friends has that short “conclusion” after being recommended some cafés by me, a virtual Hanoian who deeply understand the style of foreign visitors, what they would love to experience in the busy city, what they are looking for in the chaotic but authentic oriental society. Below is the list of 6 unique cafés which, to me, are the must-tries in your Vietnam tours. They have totally different in ideas, concepts and styles, but all of them are worth to be dropped in at least once during your Hanoi trips.

1. Puku Café 18 Tong Duy Tan Street

(Photo: Puku Cafe)

Puku Café is the favourite address for a lot of expats and visitors then they are in Hanoi. This is called the most, helpful, convenient and friendliest café shop for the “guests” of Hanoi. The café is located in the center of Tong Duy Tan Street foods, the most convenient location in the old quarters, perfect for a night café after enjoying your dinner at a local street food or a chic restaurant nearby. It has different indoor and outdoor space for optional choices of different travellers.

Highlight: 

• • Open 24/24 hours a day, offering you tasty Vietnamese coffee as well as other local drinks and many snacks.
• • Have a monthly special community event such as a friend talk show, a movie, an acoustic night.

2. Phố cổ Café (Old Quarter Café) 11 Hang Gai Street

(Photo: Pho Co Cafe)

The Café is very simple but attract a lot of visitors when they are in Hanoi. It’s because not only it is located on the most popular street (Hang Gai) with an excellent view to Hoan Kiem Lake but also has its own charm of Vietnamese ancient architecture. Once you visit the café, you will be surprised that it keeps a truly ancient house as well as its soul inside. It’s “an adventure” to explore the café, there’s only a tiny alley leading into the café from a small gallery. It’s quite hard to see the way to reach the café as its front side looks like a normal gallery until you discover the tiny entrance. Passing the tiny alley is a big surprise. It turns out to be a typical long house in the Old Quarter (some long enough to connect 2 streets). This is a shared house of different families, which you can recognize while you look into each room aside, most of them look narrow and full of ancient furniture with sophisticated wooden carvings and black-white photos from the last century on the walls. The courtyard of the café is quite large in comparison with the tiny space of the Old Quarter. The house is made mostly by wood and keeps their original looks of the ancient Hanoi with a secret mezzanine for worshipping and a charming intermediate landing. The high and steep staircase leads visitors to the next floors, which are added later for business and don’t have ancient beauty anymore but offers a stunning view over Hoan Kiem Lake. The narrow and dark alley turns out to lead us to the great open air. Just some rustic stools are enough to keep it busy all day. The view of Hoan Kiem lake is so stunning, worth to try.

• • Excellent view to Hoan Kiem Lake
• • Special Egg Café visitors should try
• • Traditional Architect of a Vietnamese Ancient House

3. La Place café 12 Au Trieu Street

This is a lovely gift that Hanoi prepares especially for French visitors. At La Place café, people find a romantic French corner amidst a bustle Hanoi. The owner might understand the French’s soul so much that he creates a perfect space that is “very France”. Nestled into a small charming lane next to Hanoi’s Cathedral, La Place is where both locals and visitors hide in quietness, overlook the ancient cathedral and observe the energetic Hanoi’s Old Quarter. La Place in dark colour tone is a cozy stop during the cold winter of Hanoi, where you find the similarity between French culture and the new Vietnamese trend in a strange but interesting harmony

• • Decorated by many interesting Communism propaganda pictures, which are nice to enjoy and study their origin
• • Nice food for meals and snacks as well
• • Nice and tranquil view of the Cathedral

4. The Hanoi Social Club 6 Hoi Vu Street

(Photo by Hanoi Social Club)

Like its name “Hanoi Social Club”, the bar and café is not only where you enjoy drinks but also where you meet the locals, other international travelers and get to know about the Hanoi’s spirit. Located in a small quiet street in the Old Quarter, this café is an oasis in busy Hanoi. Set in a beautiful period French building, the owners have created a cozy, retro style that's very welcoming. The interior has a slightly decrepit colonial feel bringing modern aesthetic while retaining its French charm and avoiding the over polish so prevalent in other Hanoi bars.

• • A nice rendezvous of locals and international visitors
• • Quiet Street, cozy décor inside while the top floor surrounded by greenery
• • Also a like little bar, serving alcohols

5. Cộng Café 35A Nguyen Huu Huan Str, 54 Hang Dieu Str, 34 Dien Bien Phu

(Photo by Cộng Café 35A Nguyen Huu Huan)

This is where you experience real Vietnamese coffee taste and meet interesting Vietnamese people. Cộng Café is where nostalgia and memories of old days meet an on-trend, inspirational, quirky design and friendly service. Their quality-focused artisan coffee shop is a great place to drink/eat/work in a homey, unique Hanoian atmosphere. Cộng (which means Viet Cong in Vietnamese) recalls the socialist era with humor and parody with its bare brick walls, dark wood handmade tables, propaganda posters and slight militaristic hint. Best for … nau da/ café sua da (iced milk coffee) / den nong (hot black) / sua chua (coffee with yogurt) or cot dua (with frozen coconut)

• • The unique atmosphere in Viet Cong theme with Old Hanoi Décor
• • Authentic Flavor of Vietnamese coffee

6. Nola Café 89 Ma May Str

Photo by Nola Café

A charming vintage café hides in the second floor of an old house in Old Quarter, keeping the secret charm of Hanoi, the only city in the world is home to many tiny cafés “suspended” on old buildings. Nola Café is a lovely place for visitors to explore Hanoi in their own way. Stumbled upon a small alley in Ma May Street, you will encounter a cool little café in your way to hunt the treasure out hidden behind the hustle and buzz of the main roads. Step inside and you will discover three floors of artfully decorated and quirkily laid out café chill-out, a small courtyard in the centre full of sunshine, a cool roof seating area covered by pretty colourful umbrellas.

• • The lovely vintage atmosphere and friendly staffs

Countless travel tips, Asian worth-seeing destinations unveiling are coming to your mailbox every week!

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Hanoi secret coffee tour

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 2hrs +
• User Group Size: 2-10 people
• Clock Time: Monday - Saturday, starting at 9am
• Map Marker Meeting place:: In front of St. Joseph Cathedral (40 P. Nhà Chung, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội)
• 250g Robusta Coffee
• Coffee Drip Maker (Phin)
• 165g Condensed Milk

Highlights of this experience:

• Explore the beating heart of Hanoi through our awesome coffee culture and visit the city’s most secret/hidden cafes.
• Stopping through 4 different Vietnamese style cafes with our experienced guide.
• Hanoi’s history and culture with the attractive sites
• Ask our awesome coffee tour guide about the culture of Vietnamese coffee and what it means to them
• Learn the secrets to how to make some of Vietnam’s famous coffee drinks
• Learn about the past, present and future of Vietnam’s coffee culture.

Hanoi’s unique coffee culture

The French named Hanoi “Little Paris” during their colonization in the 19th century, and introduced coffee culture to the city. Since then, it has become a popular drink and the Vietnamese have even created their own unique ways of enjoying a cup of coffee.

Welcome to our Hanoi Secret Coffee Walking Tour! We will take you on a journey to discover some of the city’s most unique and hidden cafes, showcasing the evolution of coffee culture in Hanoi.

We will start our tour by taking you to a French mansion built in 1936. This historic building is home to a secret coffee recipe brewed with a special ingredient, which our guide will show you how to enjoy in style. Afterward, we will embark on a “secret walk” through the old quarters, giving you a glimpse into the daily lives of local people.

Next, we will visit a hidden gem of a cafe located on the second floor of a multi-functional building. This cafe is so discreet that it often goes unnoticed by passersby, yet it is one of only three original “Hanoian cappuccino” cafes in the city.

Our third stop will be at The Art Cafe, known for its unique bitter coffee style and its fascinating history dating back to 1952. Our knowledgeable guide will share the fun stories and secrets behind this quirky cafe’s architecture and decor.

Lastly, we will bring you to one of the newest concept coffee bars in town, featuring single-origin Vietnamese coffee from the Central Highlands. Our guide will demonstrate live how modern technology is used to produce a cup of high-quality local coffee here. You’ll learn about the latest trends in Hanoi’s coffee culture and see how it has evolved over time.

Throughout the tour, our knowledgeable guide will share interesting stories about the history and culture of coffee in Vietnam. You’ll learn about how coffee has become an integral part of Vietnamese culture and how the French colonial influence shaped it. Our guide will also show you how the Vietnamese have developed their unique coffee brewing techniques and the different ways they enjoy their coffee. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have and interact with locals, giving you a glimpse into the daily life and traditions of the people of Hanoi.

This tour is perfect for coffee lovers and anyone who wants to experience the hidden gems of Hanoi’s coffee culture. Join us for a unique and unforgettable experience!

• Chevron down More Tour Details

Duration: 2 hours

Group Size: 2-10 people

Time:   @9:00 – 11:00 (Hanoi time)

Meeting Place: In front of St. Joseph Cathedral (40 P. Nhà Chung, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội) 

Private/Customized Tour:   Available upon request

• Chevron down Tour Itinerary

• We will start our session by taking you to a French mansion built in 1936. Here, you will be introduced to a special coffee brewed with a secret ingredient in style. We will also do a “secret walk”, live, together with our guide, to get to know how local people live their life in the old quarters.

• The next stop is a hide-away café located on the 2nd floor of a multi-functional building. This place is so hidden that people often pass by without realising that they have just missed one of three original “Hanoian cappuccino” cafes.

• Our third stop will be at a place nicknamed The Art Café. Featuring bitter coffee style, this place has a nice architecture and a fun history since 1952 which you will find out more from our guides.

• Hanoi coffee culture evolves over time and in this last stop, we will bring you to one of the newest concept coffee bar in town featuring single origin Vietnamese coffee from the Central Highlands. Our guide will show you live on how modern technology is used to produce a cup of high-quality local coffee here.

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Related Activities

• Most Popular
• User 2-10 people
• Hour Glass 4 hours

Afternoon Food Walking Tour

Travelling to Hanoi city offers delicious street food that can be found everywhere and is an integral part of the livelihoods of many locals in the city.

3 Best Hanoi Coffee tours (+Instagrammable Cafes)

Looking to try some of hanoi’s best coffee.

You’ve come to the right place! Coffee is a large part of the Hanoi experience, and a coffee tour is one of the best ways to explore this vibrant city .

Besides its fresh food, Hanoi is known for its rich coffee culture and bustling street life where visitors can sample some of the best Vietnamese coffees in the world.

For an in-depth exploration of the city’s best coffee spots, book a guided Hanoi coffee tour. These tours typically include visits to some of the top cafés and roasters in town, as well as tastings of unique coffees.

You also get to learn all about Vietnam’s history and how the French revolutionized Vietnamese coffee and changed the culture into what it is today.

Let’s get started with the top 3 coffee tours!

Best Hanoi Coffee Tours

1. hanoi walking street food tours & egg coffee class.

⭐ RATING: 5.0 out of 5.0 stars | ⌚ LENGTH: 3 hours | ☕ BOOK NOW

Get the best of both worlds–a Hanoi food tour and a coffee class !

Hanoi Backstreet Tours not only brings you to learn how to make the famous egg yolk coffee, but you also get a food tour in the mix!

Walking around Hanoi’s Old Quarter to find the best street food spots, you’ll sample everything from banh mi sandwiches to fresh spring rolls. At the end of the tour, get hands-on experience making egg yolk coffee and learn how to make it.

“Had an amazing tour with Tam as our guide. He took us to some delicious local spots and was so great to talk to. It felt like walking around the city with a friend for a few hours learning about life and culture in Hanoi. Highly recommend booking this experience!” SEE MORE REVIEWS

With this tour, you get a full experience of Hanoi’s history and culture while tasting all the delicious local food. Backstreet Tours also boasts of connecting you with local vendors so you can learn about the eateries you visit.

On top of the culinary experiences, your local guide will also tell you stories of Vietnam’s past. Hanoi Backstreet Tours is known for its passionate and knowledgeable guides, so rest assured that you’re in great hands throughout your food journey!

Hanoi Coffee Tours

2. hanoi french quarter: coffee and stories.

⭐ RATING: 5.0 out of 5.0 stars | ⌚ LENGTH: 2.5 hours | ☕ BOOK NOW

One of the most popular and highly rated Hanoi coffee tours is the Hanoi French Quarter Tour where you can learn about the history of Vietnam and the French influence on coffee in the city.

You’ll explore iconic places like St. Joseph’s Cathedral and the Opera House, as well as Trang Tien Plaza, a historic shopping area that was developed during the early days of French occupation.

Afterward, you’ll visit local specialty coffee shops like Loading T Cafe to try the classic c a phe sua da , Vietnamese coffee with sweetened condensed milk.

“Such an amazing tour! Cong is very knowledgeable and tells stories with such passion and humor; the places where we stopped by were truly amazing too, I loved it! Highly recommended 👌🏼” SEE MORE REVIEWS

With OneTrip Hanoi Coffee Tour , you’ll get more than just tastings of coffee. You’ll also learn about the Vietnam War, hear the significance of the First Indochina War, and see buildings that have stood the test of time.

You also get to see one of Hanoi Old Quarter’s hidden gems for coffee! The tour guides are also history buffs, you know you’ll have the best information!

3. Hanoi Coffee Workshop & Stories

If walking around Hanoi doesn’t sound appealing to you, choose this Hanoi coffee tour instead and learn how to make Vietnamese coffee.

Coffee experts will teach you how to make 5 different types of Vietnamese coffee and hear stories of the past and how the coffee culture changed over time.

“Had an excellent time learning about coffee and how to make coffee taste even better! Lucas was extremely passionate about coffee and was very enthusiastic and professional in answering our questions. Can’t recommend this experience enough if you’re someone who loves coffee or simply want to know more about the topic. Had a great time – thank you again!!” SEE MORE REVIEWS

The best part about this Hanoi coffee tour is that you learn how to make coffee from experts who have been in the industry for over 10 years.

The coffee you’ll be making includes egg yolk coffee, coconut coffee, iced coffee with milk, pour-over coffee, and the workshop’s signature coffee with jam and local wine. Even more, you learn the secret recipes for each cup!

Where are some Instagrammable cafes in Hanoi?

After getting to know some of the popular Vietnamese coffee drinks, head out to some cafes in Hanoi and try some orders for yourself.

The city is filled with cute and Instagrammable cafes–here are a few you can visit!

Loading T Cafe

Take a journey to the Loading T Cafe in Hanoi and explore one of the city’s hidden gems. Located on the second floor of a French Colonial building, this cafe is filled with vintage furniture, patterned flooring, and plant-filled corners.

Enjoy some incredible coffee options from their menu while listening to some French music for good vibes! The friendly staff will make sure you have an unforgettable experience.

So if you’re looking for an Instagrammable spot in Hanoi that offers great coffee, look no further than Loading T Cafe!

Eden Coffee

Eden Coffee in Hanoi is a must-visit for any traveler interested in exploring the city’s rich history and culture. Located to the left of St. Joseph’s Cathedral – one of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks – Eden Coffee offers an unforgettable experience.

The cafe has beautiful lights on the rooftop, stunning painted walls, and a delicious menu of locally-sourced coffee and tea.

You can also try some of their unique drinks, such as egg yolk coffee or coconut coffee. On top of it all, Eden Coffee is guaranteed to make your Instagram feed look amazing!

The Note Cafe

Located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and across the street from Hoan Kiem Lake, The Note Cafe is the perfect spot to take some amazing photos.

The cafe has a retro vibe and colorful decorations. The walls are covered in sticky notes written by travelers all over the world, all over time. If you’d like, they will even stick a note to the back of your passport.

The Note Cafe also serves a variety of specialty coffees and teas, so you can get your caffeine fix while taking pictures for your Instagram!

Hidden Railway Cafe (Choo Choo Cafe)

The Hidden Railway Cafe is a cool spot in Hanoi that is perfect for anyone looking for a unique experience. Located on the dangerous Train Street, the cafe is hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

Inside, you’ll find comfy couches and some vintage railway posters to admire. Order the famous egg yolk coffee and even a bowl of pho to enjoy right next to the railway tracks in Hanoi!

Snap a quick Instagram photo here, too, before (or after) the train runs by.

Cafe Nola is the perfect spot for anyone looking to take a quick break and snap some photos for their Instagram.

This cafe has an open-air terrace with colorful umbrellas, giving it an extremely photogenic vibe. Aside from the Instagrammable decor, Cafe Nola also serves up some delicious coffee and snacks–just avoid the cocktails!

The Best Hanoi Coffee Tours: Frequently Asked Questions

What is egg yolk coffee.

Egg yolk coffee was created in the 1940s in Hanoi, Vietnam. It consists of egg yolks, condensed milk, and Vietnamese drip coffee. The egg yolks add a velvety texture to the cup while providing sweetness from the condensed milk.

What is the most popular cafe in Hanoi?

Giang Cafe is one of the most popular spots in Hanoi for its egg yolk coffee. It is a family-run shop and has been around since the 1940s!

Other notable cafes include Loading T Cafe and The Note Cafe . All of these cafes have vibrant decorations that make for great photos on Instagram.

Where is the hidden coffee in Hanoi?

• Address: 3b P. Hàng Tre, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam

The hidden coffee scene in Hanoi is located in the old quarters of the city overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake. Here, you’ll find traditional Vietnamese drip coffee alongside specialties like egg yolk coffee and coconut coffee.

You’ll also be able to have conversations with locals about their culture and share stories.

Final Thoughts: Hanoi Coffee tours

Hanoi is one of the best cities in the world for coffee lovers. From sampling traditional recipes to exploring secret cafes, a Hanoi Coffee Tour will teach you so much more about the coffee culture in Vietnam.

You can learn how to make a traditional Vietnamese coffee drink and tour Hanoi’s busy streets!

Are you ready to head to Hanoi? Check out these helpful posts!

• 7 Days in Hanoi
• Things to do in Old Quarter
• Things to do in Hanoi at Night
• Where to Stay in Hanoi
• Is There Uber in Hanoi, Vietnam?
• Best Hanoi Coffee tours (+ Instagrammable Cafes)
• Best Hanoi Street Food Tours
• Best Half Day Tours in Hanoi

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My Favorite Travel Tips + Resources

Here is a quick glance at all my go-to travel tips and resources that I use to plan every trip! For more information, check out my travel resources page .

• Booking flights: I use Google Flights to check all routes and find the best flights. Then I compare Skyscanner (for the lowest prices) before I book.
• For hotels, I go through Booking.com or book directly with Marriott (for points + rewards).
• When I travel internationally, I’ll book through Hostelworld for very budget-friendly stays.
• For vacation rentals, use Vrbo or Marriott Homes & Villas .
• Expedia also has some great bundles for hotels, flights, and car rentals altogether.
• Car Rentals: I love renting cars through Discover Cars . They have been consistent and provide the best customer service.
• Trains in Asia: Trip.com has the best options!
• Trains in Europe: Trainline or Omio .
• Visa Application: For a hassle-free process, apply for your visa from iVisa .
• Travel Credit Card: I book all my travel (flights, hotels, car rentals) through Chase Sapphire .
• Vaccines and Medications: Check the CDC website for updates on necessary vaccines to enter a country, including updates on Covid-19 and recommended places to visit. I recommend getting all the vaccines you need before you go!
• Tours + Experiences: I absolutely love my tours! Everything from eerie walking ghost tours to food tours, I’ll usually book something every trip either through Viator or GetYourGuide .
• Entertainment: Looking for entertainment like sporting events, theater shows, or concerts? Book with Ticket Squeeze !
• Tech : Keep your internet browsing safe, secure, and fast with ExpressVPN
• Language Learning: The best place to learn a new language is through Babbel as you travel to countries you don’t know the language.
• What to Pack: I almost always travel by backpack . For products I like, check out my packing guide page for all the things I take with me on different trips.

Pafoua is the author and creator of Her Wanderful World. Pafoua writes from her numerous excursions about all things travel, from fun itineraries to creating memorable experiences on the road. When she’s not traveling, Pafoua loves a fun board game night with her friends or is snuggled up reading a good book. You can find her on Instagram @herwanderfulworld.

• Ho Chi Minh City

• Destination
• Tay Ho (West Lake)

9 Best Cafes In And Near Tay Ho Where Locals Like To Hang Out

• 1. The Eastern & Oriental Tea House and Coffee Parlor
• 2. Oriberry
• 3. Caffe Doppio
• 4. Essie Tearoom And Bistro
• 5. L'Oasis
• 6. Cafe Duy Tri
• 7. Savoor - The House of Panini
• 8. Highlands Coffee
• 9. Cong Caphe - Truc Bach

Hanoi is a frenetic city but its citizens know exactly where and when to chill out. One name that is high on their list is the area around lake Ho Tay. Here are 9 best cafes to stop for a good cup of coffee, a light snack, to mingle with locals or other travelers, and watch the city go by.

The Eastern & Oriental Tea House and Coffee Parlor

The parlor serves as a sustainable living hub and a one-stop dining and winding-down destination for locals and expats alike. The main draws here are the wide selection of breakfasts, pastries, cakes and the plum location right on the bank of the West Lake.

It’s more than a little confusing that Vietnam, a country always in the top 5 of the world’s largest coffee exporters, has so few cafes dedicated to its locally-produced beans; however, Oriberry is a notable exception.

Locally-sourced coffee and tea serves as the backbone of Oriberry’s thoughtful menu. The bar is capable and has something for everyone but the stars of the show here are the egg coffee and cheesecake.

Caffe Doppio

There are a lot of homes for rent along this stretch of the lake and many of the tenants end up at Caffe Doppio for their morning coffee. Here you can find locals mix with expats and travelers for a quick caffeine fix.

The menu is a quite straightforward selection of drinks, from coconut coffee to cafe mocha. There are also juices and smoothies for a wellness and vitamin boost.

Essie Tearoom And Bistro

Essie is proof that the Vietnamese are able to do tearooms properly. This is a vintage-feel destination adorned with wooden furniture, cake stands, and lace tablecloths. However, the ambience is modern in nature: the tearoom especially appeals to younger locals and travelers who are in search of an afternoon tea or a romantic getaway.

On a sunny day one can sit outside at the wooden tables and watch life go by. There is a good selection of herbal drinks, from lotus tea and Assam tea, to English blends like Earl Grey.

L’Oasis epitomizes Hanoi’s recent surge in restaurants and cafes that value quality above everything else.

The selection of flavors at this gelateria strikes a perfect balance between classics (the chocolate and pistachio gelato are excellent), and newer recipes, such as matcha and yogurt gelato.

Its location, down the quieter side of the Tay Ho area, provides a chance to see a part of the city travellers may otherwise miss and to meet the international neighborhood living around lake Ho Tay.

Cafe Duy Tri

Thanks to its antiquity and homey interior, Duy Tri is among the notable cafes most visited by locals and expats who will enjoy its signature yogurt coffee. The shop is located off the beaten tourist track and a true hidden gem that even the younger generations of the capital city aren’t aware exists. It’s easy to understand why locals flock to Cafe Duy Tri, with its unmistakable rustic vibe of Hanoi. Often filled with Vietnamese guests, its location has been more than eight-decade old and has since established a strong footing in the city’s coffee connoisseur community.

Savoor - The House of Panini

It may not be Italy but Hanoi still offers some decent choices for panini. One of the best-rated cafes serving this kind of sandwich is Savoor. The crowd here leans toward expats and local 20-something looking for a break from the familiar Vietnamese cooking.

The owner is a Thai woman but instead of using a well-known dish from her home country as a springboard into Hanoi’s vibrant food scene, she established this business serving Italian sandwiches.

Highlands Coffee

Arguably the easiest name on the list to master, Highlands Coffee is a chaotic hub on the shore of lake Truc Bach with excellent view in all directions. Minutes from Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the cafe is a favorite of Vietnamese people of all ages.

While the foods and coffee here is rated acceptable at best, the prime location and the fact that it’s a boat cafe keep visitors coming. The staff at Highlands Coffee can be strapped for time, not a surprise given the nature of a cafe with such an enduring reputation. Prepare to queue.

Cong Caphe - Truc Bach

Cong Caphe rocks an eccentric vibe with Viet Cong memorabilia but the overall effect is comfortable and cozy. The cafe’s second floor opens up a panorama encompassing a fine view of Hanoi in general and lake Truc Bach in particular.

The Vietnamese love to put their own spin on foriegn dishes and drinks, to which the internationally famous ‘banh mi’ can attest. Among their recent creations is coconut coffee, a must try while you are at Cong Caphe. The rich and aromatic coconut cream compliments the coffee, creating a real explosion of flavors in your mouth.

Tay Ho: The 5 Best Restaurants For Every Taste

Hanoi’s cultural heart might rest on the Old Quarter but the city’s contemporary pulse lies in the area around West Lake (or ‘Ho Tay’ in Vietnamese) - the city’s new food and multi-culture quarter.

Beyond Hanoi Old Quarter: Tay Ho Has Good Street Food Too

While the Old Quarter is still the reigning champion when it comes to cheap and tasty street food, an influx of creative locals and expats flooding to Tay Ho area following the new paved road, have meant the West Lake’s food-on-the-go landscape has boomed in recent years.

Tay Ho - Live Your Best Nightlife In Hanoi, A Thorough Guide To The City’s Clubbing Scene

The last few years have seen Tay Ho turning into a new hot spot for nightlife, from the all-night-partying venues to the more cutting-edged establishments.

Meet our experts

Suggested Holiday Packages

Visiting Hanoi's Train Street: READ THIS FIRST!

https://whereintheworldisnina.com

Hanoi’s Train Street, as it’s affectionately known, is not your average tourist spot, and you don’t want to walk up here blindly!

It definitely has its quirks and surprises, but its undeniable charm certainly makes it a must-visit (with a few caveats) in Hanoi.

Here’s what you need to know before you go…

A Brief History of Hanoi’s Train Street

Originally, Train Street was just another part of Hanoi’s extensive railway system, designed during the French colonial era to connect the northern and southern parts of Vietnam.

The tracks, laid close to the homes of residents, were a response to the city’s rapid urbanization.

As Hanoi grew, so did the fascination with these tracks. What was once a normal part of locals’ daily routines became a point of interest for visitors.

However, Train Street’s growing popularity brought its own set of challenges. Safety concerns escalated as more visitors flocked to the area, and there have been a few incidents on these tracks over the years.

After closures, new regulations, and challenges, Hanoi’s Train Street is a bit complex to understand if you’re unaware of what’s happening, so I’m going to do my best to help explain.

Hanoi’s Train Street Cafés

First, you might be wondering, don’t I just pick a cafe on Train Street, order a coffee, and wait for this train to come by? What the heck else do I need to know?!

And I feel you, I kind of thought the same. So, let’s start off easy. Here are some of the cafes on Hanoi’s Train Street that you can check out:

• Railway Cafe Tuan – This is apparently the original train cafe that started the trend!
• Cat Coffee Restaurant 54 – Coffee, trains, and CATS! Sold! This is where I ended up on a chilly Saturday afternoon because the only thing better than a cafe with a cool train whizzing by is having a cat on your lap while it happens.
• Coffee 40 – Cute and cozy, just two feet from the tracks! It’s next to the cat cafe, and both of these are slightly out of the chaos and a bit more chill, which I liked.
• Parallel Cocktail Bar – This sweet cocktail bar overlooks the train street for those catching the late-night trains.
• Lagoon Rooftop Hà Nội – Another rooftop, more upscale, and a cafe with a bird’s eye view from above.

Are there others? Oh heck yes! There are tons of cafes, so you won’t have trouble finding others.

Fair warning: these cafés are brimming with charm but are less about the food and drink and more about the sheer novelty of dining beside active train tracks.

Don’t get me wrong, our drinks were fine, but you will be paying more for everything, as again, it’s the experience of being on this street.

So maybe, don’t come hungry so you can save those coins for another place with better food and prices.

RELATED: 17 BEST Cafes in Hanoi, Vietnam (DN-Friendly Too!)

Can You Just Choose Any Cafe on Train Street?

Our journey began with a rendezvous point set via text, the coordinates leading us to one of the “entrances” of Train Street. Yes, we had to TEXT the cafe before heading out here.

Eager locals will be waiting at the barricaded and guarded entry points to get you into their cafe, so keep an eye out for the cafe owner of the cafe you want to go to.

Somehow… Our cafe lady found us, walked us along the tracks, and seated us at her cafe. She then brought me a box of kittens. Things were great! But back to the rules…

You will not be allowed ON the tracks without an “invitation.”

If you just show up without texting beforehand, you will get a random person inviting you, which is fine, but which cafe are they from, and where will they lead you? It will be a surprise!

So you don’t necessarily NEED a prior invitation, but once you’re in, you’ll have to follow the person to their cafe as you can’t just walk around and choose a cafe.

Coffee, Cats, and… COPS?!

So as we were sitting enjoying our coffee and tea, and petting some cute ass cats, all of a sudden, we were ushered out of our seats and told to go upstairs…

A lookout person warned the shop owners of law enforcement coming , and before you knew it, all the café owners swiftly guided their patrons into concealment and closed their doors.

We were literally having to hide in their stairwell because the cops showed up?!

There, in the cramped stairwell, we found ourselves in an awkward limbo, not out of fear but out of the sheer oddity of the situation. This was about a 10-minute ordeal… just waiting…

Here Comes The Choo Choo Train!

After we were allowed back outside and back in our chairs, we finally got word that the train was coming by! Woo!

Nothing quite prepares you for the sight and sound of the train thundering down the tracks. Its speed is startling, its proximity astonishing. You’re just a couple of feet away… barely!

This isn’t a leisurely chug along the countryside; it’s a full-throttle dash! For those brief seconds, as the train blurs past , you’re caught in the moment.

It was definitely fun and quite the experience!

What’s The Train Schedule?

Monday – Friday : 7:00 PM; 7:45 PM; 8:30 PM; and 10:00 PM

Saturday – Sunday : 6:00 AM; 9:00 AM; 11:20 AM; 3:20 PM; 5:30 PM; 6:00 PM; 7:00 PM; 7:45 PM; 8:30 PM; 9:00 PM; 11:00 PM

So, the weekends are likely your best bet, mostly because you can be there during the day, but also, you’ll have more time options.

However, with all these said, I happened to be at another cafe in Hanoi , the Drop In Cafe, on a Thursday, and I saw the train pass around 11:45 AM!

So there are actually more train possibilities; however, there is no further info about those times anywhere, and I noted not as many cafes were open either.

With that said, I not only recommend the Drop In Cafe because they have excellent coffee, but they are a cool cafe just across from Train Street with ZERO dramas because they are not on the tracks.

Tips Before You Go:

Before you head out here, let me offer you some more tips and recommendations.

• Timing is Key : Arrive around 20 minutes before the train is due. An early arrival might secure a good spot, but it also means more chances for the unpredictability of a cafe hideout like I had to do.
• Expect the Unexpected : Be prepared for sudden changes—whether it’s a dash to hiding or the abrupt yells of guards (they yelled at me at one point, and I had no idea why?). It’s all part of the Train Street experience, although not really fun.
• Just Pop By : You may just want to check out Train Street, take a quick pic, and leave, and you can do that. But only from behind a barricade. You can go here or here and take a pic, but you can’t get on the tracks, and you will be hounded by people trying to get you into their cafes.
• Wander The Tracks: If you’re at the cafe of your choosing, as long as the train is not nearby, you can walk along the tracks for a quick pic. The guards seem to randomly yell at people, though, with no rhyme or reasoning.

Is Visiting Hanoi’s Train Street Worth It?

It’s a question with no straightforward answer. Do you think it’s worth it from everything you read?

If you’re seeking a unique activity with a dash of the unusual, then yes, come on by. But just know there are some dramas in visiting Hanoi’s Train Street and some preparedness you need to keep in mind.

I enjoyed my time. I thought it was pretty cool, and I got some fun pictures, but would I go again? Not so sure.

Quick FAQ of Train Street:

Generally speaking, Điện Biên Phủ , Trần Phú , and P. Nguyễn Thái Học are the main areas and entrances of Train Street. They will be blocked off and guarded from the street.

Not exactly? It’s semi-regulated and policed but not closed.

Yes. Just remember to text the owner of your selected cafe first or get escorted by a random cafe owner if you just show up.

Final Thoughts

I understand the need to keep tourists safe, but I also feel bad for the cafe owners. I spoke to the cafe owner, and they struggled quite a bit during the closures a few years ago.

As tourists, it’s important that you’re not in this “bubble” where you think you can’t get hurt and are blasé about your surroundings. Don’t be that tourist who ruins it for others, especially the shop owners. This has become their livelihood.

I understand the restrictions, as unfun as they are, so when you come, be respectful, enjoy, be SAFE, and take care of yourself along the tracks.

I hope this helped you plan your visit to Hanoi’s Train Street!

The post Visiting Hanoi’s Train Street: READ THIS FIRST! appeared first on Where in the World is Nina? .

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Vietnam cafe owner fined after foreign tourist seen close to oncoming train

HANOI - The owner of a cafe in Hanoi’s famous “train street” has been fined 7.5 million Vietnamese dong (S$398) for allowing a foreign tourist to pose for a photograph on the rail track as a train approached.

Hoan Kiem District Police punished the 61-year-old owner of the cafe at No.5 Tran Phu Street in Hang Bong Ward for having no registration licence, and for allowing customers to engage in behaviour that endangered safety.

In a viral video posted to Facebook on June 18, a woman is seen coming onto the track and seemingly posing for a photo as a train approaches.

As the train nears, a man comes running to push the woman to safety.

The man was later identified as the cafe owner.

The street got its moniker from the trains that pass by several times a day, in some places mere inches away from buildings.

Visiting tourists often sit at railside cafes to watch the trains go by, or take photos on the tracks.

Following the incident, the Hoan Kiem District People’s Committee requested that the people’s committees of the wards through which the railway runs intensify inspections and strictly handle any business activities violating railway traffic safety regulations.

Additionally, Hoan Kiem District Police have been ordered to increase their presence to prevent tourists from activities such as eating, drinking, filming and taking photos within the railway traffic safety corridor.

The Hoan Kiem District People’s Committee said that measures must be taken to ensure that people do not engage in dangerous acts that could affect railway operations.

Coordination with the railway sector to man checkpoints and ensure railway traffic safety is also required.

Hoan Kiem District has also instructed the wards and the relevant authorities to continue to educate people on the laws regarding railway traffic order and safety, with a focus on behaviour prohibited by the Railway Law.

More barriers and warning signs should be installed, and more manpower deployed to monitor and address urban order and safety violations within the railway corridor, with strict handling of any violations. VIETNAM NEWS/ASIA NEWS NETWORK

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Amtrak with kids is easier (and cheaper) than you think

Half-priced tickets and the Red Cap service made a trip from D.C. to NYC manageable.

Driving back to D.C. after a long weekend in New York in March, my husband and I were dreaming of a different kind of trip: no bathroom stops, no need to gas up, no shrieks from kids tired of their car seats, no traffic jams.

It’s a shame, we agreed, that it would be so expensive to take the train from D.C. to NYC as a family of four. But wait. Would it?

We started to consider the cost of fuel and tolls — and the toll of meltdowns, frequent bathroom breaks for a preschooler and stop-and-go traffic. Then we discovered Amtrak’s half-price tickets for passengers between the ages of 2 and 12, and a free ride (on an adult’s lap) for a child under 2. We ended up booking three round-trip tickets for a total of $255 — only slightly more than I’ve paid for a trip just for myself.

Take a forgiving baggage allowance, invaluable assistance at the train station, bathrooms in close proximity and the ability to have mini-adventures in transit (cafe car, anyone?), and my husband and I agreed: It felt like we were on vacation the moment we got on the train. Arriving in less time than it takes to drive — under three-and-a-half hours to New York and a little bit longer on the way home — was another perk.

Some Amtrak regulars might wince at the idea of sharing train space with a 3-year-old and 9-month-old, so I’ll just say this now: We avoided the quiet car.

Here’s what we learned about riding the rails with tiny passengers.

Take advantage of the Red Cap service

I read that families with kids are allowed to pre-board, but I wasn’t sure how that would work. All my previous experiences taking Amtrak involved watching for the gate to pop up on a screen and then making a beeline to jockey for position with hundreds of fellow passengers.

But using the Red Cap service was hands down the best advice we got.

The employees are described as “dedicated Amtrak staff you can count on for free baggage handling assistance.” They also assist passengers with disabilities, older travelers, large groups — and, yes, families with small kids. Amtrak says customers can tip if they like; I’m here to tell you that this service is priceless for a family and you should definitely tip.

We arrived at Union Station in Washington about 30 minutes before departure with our eyes peeled for red. Near the gates, we spotted a sign and someone in the namesake red hat (plus polo shirt) and asked for help boarding. He rolled our Pack ’n Play on his cart and brought us and another group with a small child right down to the track, then helped both parties find seats designated for groups of three or more people. We were on board by 9:19 a.m., more than 15 minutes ahead of departure.

In a first for me, the train was entirely empty when we boarded.

On our way back to D.C., we asked police in Penn Station for directions to the Red Cap station. Once there, someone checked our ticket and once again, got us on the train a few minutes before anyone else. Both times, we were able to get situated without getting in anyone else’s way.

People who want to use the Red Cap service should arrive 45 minutes early, an Amtrak representative told me later. The service is only available at major stations including Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia, Newark, New York, Wilmington, Del., New Haven, Conn., and Boston’s South Station on the East Coast. Elsewhere, find it in Chicago, Los Angeles, Portland, Ore., and Seattle.

According to Amtrak, priority boarding is also available for families with small kids at some stations; travelers should ask a customer service representative at the station to find out.

Book early for deals, but read the fine print

I often take Amtrak to New York, so I knew from experience that great prices can be found by searching far in advance, staying flexible with dates and seeking out less-convenient times. By booking six weeks in advance for a Thursday through Saturday, we found times and prices that were doable with kids. (I’ve since been tempted by round-trip tickets for the family for $175.)

Our fare was in the “value” category , which doesn’t come with a lot of flexibility: changes are not allowed, and there’s a 25 percent cancellation fee. The restrictions are clear when booking, but I must have shrugged them off because I was surprised when I tried and failed to change our return time.

Amtrak spokeswoman Kimberly Woods said the half-price discount for kids aged 2 to 12 is “an everyday discount we offer to encourage families to get onboard and experience a better way to travel.”

Kids need to be accompanied by at least one adult, and the discount isn’t good for business class on non-Acela trains, first class or private rooms. One child under 2 is allowed on board for free with an accompanying adult, as long as they sit on a lap.

You’re allowed more free bags than on a plane

My packing strategy for family road trips is usually “better safe than sorry” — which leaves us with a bunch of bags. That likely would have been fine under Amtrak’s luggage rules for this route. Every passenger can bring two carry-ons and a personal item at no additional charge. For people traveling with a child under 2, an additional infant item, like a stroller or diaper bag, is allowed for no fee.

I knew we’d have to manage every item on crowded NYC streets and public transportation as well as “the big train,” as we started calling Amtrak. With a stroller, portable crib, diaper bag, purse, small duffel, tiny cooler bag and two backpacks that held clothes for the four of us, we felt unwieldy — but were still within the baggage limits.

I thought that I might check a bag at the station, but found out in the moment that the train only allowed carry-ons. That turned out to be fine, but it was difficult to suss out in advance if we would be able to check a bag.

The cafe car is your friend

Our seats on both legs of the trip were conveniently close to the bathroom and suitably far from the cafe car — a good arrangement for urgent restroom needs and time-killing sojourns to check out the food offerings.

Amtrak’s website noted that changing stations were available in the bathrooms on “most” train cars, but we never found one. A spokesperson later clarified that changing areas were available on the Acela and some long-distance trains.

Being able to walk around was key; my daughter loved to tap the button to open doors between cars. Seats were spacious, and the view was sufficiently interesting to entertain both kids in spurts.

“Mama look, we’re going fast!” my daughter said as we accelerated. We passed over a sparkling body of water and she excitedly pointed out “the ocean!” We’ll work on geography.

The cafe car’s menu had plenty to satisfy a preschooler’s palate, even if some items like a chewy, barely warm grilled cheese were not a success. An iced lemon pound cake was a hit, as were pretzels and a tropical fruit salad that was as delicious as it was messy.

But it’s still a confined space, so pack entertainment

If you’re a parent too, you know kids get bored and antsy over the course of three-plus hours doing anything. This definitely applies in a confined space.

To pass the time, we packed toys for both kids and a tablet with headphones for our preschooler. She drew using an art app and watched some of her favorite movies and shows on Disney Plus in between walks, trips to the bathroom and food car visits.

The baby nursed, squealed as he tapped on the window and, at naptime, cried a little until we soothed him to sleep. Thankfully, the tears were short-lived — and unfortunately, so were the naps.

My husband and I couldn’t help but overhear someone else’s temper tantrum: a loud, angry businessman cursing during a video meeting, which prompted an Amtrak employee to suggest he relocate to the bathroom if he wanted to use that language.

Unlike my solo train trips, I did not pass my time napping, reading and browsing social media. But I loved taking the ride with them and introducing them to a new travel experience.

The takeaway

We found Amtrak a refreshing alternative to driving, and one that we’ll choose in the future. But we were also lucky on several fronts: The trains were not delayed, which is not always a given . Red Cap service was available at our station. We had our choice of seats when we boarded. There were no diaper emergencies.

If we had boarded somewhere without the extra assistance, or when the train was already packed, it could have been trickier. And the lack of a diaper changing station could have required yogic maneuvering in the bathroom (next time I’ll bring some oversized changing pads). Packing our own snacks and entertainment was crucial.

For us, the best part of the trip was eliminating the drudgery of a drive and turning that time into an adventure where both parents could be present and engaged with our kids. We watched the skylines pass until New York’s came into view and marveled over how much less stressful the train felt than four or more hours on I-95.

“I love the train,” my husband said at one point.

“Me too,” echoed the 3-year-old.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

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Wildfires force New Mexico village of Ruidoso to evacuate homes: See map

The village of ruidoso ordered all of its residents to evacuate: 'please do not try to gather belongings or protect your home - go now'..

Two wildfires burned through thousands of acres in New Mexico and residents were ordered to evacuate as the fires developed rapidly. Videos show smoke from the fire billowing into the sky, looking like orange clouds, as people watch nearby.

"I strongly urge residents of Ruidoso and the surrounding areas to remain calm and heed official instructions to help minimize risk," said New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham in a statement on Tuesday.

The South Fork Fire and the Salt Fire were discovered on Monday. The fires, which are burning on tribal land, prompted mandatory evacuations for the entire Village of Ruidoso and Ruidoso Downs, a two-hour drive southeast of Albuquerque.

The cost of the damage done by the fires is unknown, according to USA TODAY's data .

By early Monday evening, the flames damaged multiple structures, states  the New Mexico Forestry Division , but how many remains unknown.

"My administration is in close contact with state, tribal and federal officials about the status of these fast-moving fires, and we are quickly deploying as many resources as possible to protect people and property," said Grisham.

Map of New Mexico wildfires

Which communities are being evacuated.

The following areas are under mandatory evacuation orders, states the Village of Ruidoso's website:

• All of Ruidoso Downs
• All of the Village of Ruidoso
• All the areas "west of Highway 48"
• All of Alto "up to the Outlaw Golf Course"
• All of Gavilan Canyon Road from Highway 48 "to McDonald's."
• Alpine Village
• Brady Canyon
• Cedar Creek
• Lower Eagle Creek
• Ponderosa Heights
• Sierra Vista
• Ski Run Road
• Sonterra 1, 2, and 3
• Upper Canyon
• Villa Madonna
• West Gavilan

The Village of Ruidoso is demanding people leave immediately.

"Please do not try to gather belongings or protect your home - GO NOW," the Village of Ruidoso said in a post on X .

What streets in Ruidoso are closed?

The following roads and highways are closed to traffic, said the village in another tweet :

• Highway 70 closed from Highway 244 to the east Reservation line.
• Highway 48 is closed from Alpine Village to State Highway 220.
• State police closed Carrizo Canyon Road to all traffic.

Evacuation routes:

"The evacuation route is via Highway 70 and out towards Roswell," states the city's website.

Where can people in Ruidoso evacuate to?

The following locations are open to people evacuating, according to multiple tweets from the village:

• ENMU-Roswell gym : The Red Cross set up an emergency shelter for evacuees. If it's full, Godfrey Athletic Center is a secondary option.
• Lea County Fairgrounds : The location has Stables and RV hookups, but the village asks that people contact Fairgrounds Director Wyatt Duncan at 575-333-0252.

Other places evacuees can go to according to the village's website:

• Capitan High School - Capitan, New Mexico, 88316
• Carrizozo High School - 800 D Ave., Carrizozo, New Mexico, 88301
• Christ Community Church - 2960 N. Scenic Drive, Alamogordo, New Mexico, 88310
• Church on the Move - 901 W. Brasher Road, Roswell, New Mexico, 88203
• Church on the Move Dream Center - 2700 W. 2nd St, Roswell, New Mexico, 88201
• Eastern New Mexico University - 52 University Blvd., Roswell, New Mexico, 88203
• Godfrey Athletic Center - 101 W. College Blvd., Roswell, New Mexico, 88201
• Inn of the Mountain Gods - 287 Carrizo Canyon Road, Mescalero, New Mexico, 88340

Shelters for the animals of evacuees:

THe following locations provide shelters to animals, according to the village:

• Mescalero Rodeo Grounds, for livestock - Rodeo Grounds Road, Mescalero, New Mexico, 88340
• Eastern New Mexico State Fairgrounds - 2500 S.E. Main St., Roswell, New Mexico 88203
• Lea County Fairgrounds - 101 S. Commercial St., Lovington, New Mexico 88260

Emergency operations relocated

"The Emergency Operations Center for the Ruidoso Fire Department has been relocated to the County Courthouse in Carrizozo," said the Village of Ruidoso.

They can be reached at the following lines for information:

• 575-937-7785
• 575-973-5604
• 575-973-8977

Contributing: Adam D. Young , Alex Driggars ; Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

Julia is a trending reporter for USA TODAY. She has covered various topics, from local businesses and government in her hometown, Miami, to tech and pop culture. You can connect with her on  LinkedIn  or follow her on  X, formerly Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok : @juliamariegz