Metro in Hanoi: Everything you need to know before riding

1. Overview of the Hanoi metro network

Hanoi’s metro system may not yet be as developed as those in Europe or even neighboring countries like Thailand, but it's still very much worth trying, especially for those curious to see the city from a new perspective. While the network is limited for now, the trains themselves are impressively modern: clean, air-conditioned, and sound-insulated.

Once aboard, you’ll be surprised by the quiet, calm experience. No traffic noise, no horns, and no air pollution, just smooth movement and peaceful views of Hanoi’s cityscape from above.

2.1 Line 2A: Cat Linh – Yen Nghia

Vietnam’s first-ever metro line, Line 2A runs on elevated tracks across 13.1 km from downtown Cat Linh to Yen Nghia in the southwest. It officially opened in 2021 and now operates reliably with clean, quiet cabins and scenic views along the way. While it mainly serves local commuters, it’s a fun and low-cost experience for tourists too.

2.2 Line 3: Nhon – Hà Nội Station (Partially Opened)

Still under construction, Line 3 is the city's pilot metro project and a key part of its long-term urban transport plan. The first elevated section (Nhổn to Cầu Giấy) is already operational, connecting suburban neighborhoods to central Hanoi. It’s designed to reduce emissions, ease congestion, and link smoothly with other public transport options in the future.

This is the Hanoi Metro network map to help you navigate the city’s metro lines, stations, and connections easily.

3. Ticket prices & How to buy tickets

3.1 Single ride tickets

Line 2A (Cat Linh – Yen Nghia)

• From 8,000 VND (~$0.32) for short distances
• Up to 15,000 VND (~$0.60) for the full route

Line 3 (Nhon – Cau Giay)

• From 8,000 VND ($0.32) to 12,000 VND ($0.48) depending on distance

3.2 Day pass

• Line 2A: 30,000 VND (~$1.20)
• Line 3: 24,000 VND (~$0.96)

3.3 How to buy tickets

Option 1: At the Station

• Ticket machines: Touchscreen, available in English, accepts cash (VND)
• Ticket counters: Staff can help you choose the right ticket
• Payment: Cash or card (Visa, Napas, etc.)
• You’ll receive a paper ticket with a QR code

Option 2: Contactless Bank Card

• Tap your contactless Mastercard on the metro gate
• The gate will open automatically
• Fare is deducted after your trip - no need to buy a separate ticket

Option 3: Mobile App (for Vietnamese phone numbers only)

If you have a Vietnamese phone number and a mobile banking app, you can use digital tickets.

1. Download the app: “The ve giao thong HN” on App Store or CH Play
2. Register with your phone number and OTP
3. Choose your ticket type (day or week), select Metro
4. Pay using your banking app via QR code
5. Show the e-ticket in the app to station staff to enter

Valid e-ticket shows:

• A dynamic QR code that refreshes every 30 seconds
• Your name, date of birth, ticket type, and validity

If the QR code doesn’t move, the ticket won’t be accepted.

5. Tourist places you can visit using the metro?

Line 2A: Cat Linh – Yen Nghia

Although this line doesn’t run through the Old Quarter, you can still use it to explore areas west and southwest of the city center.

• Cat Linh Station

A short Grab or walk from the Temple of Literature and Vietnam Fine Arts Museum. Great starting point for exploring Ba Đình and Đong Đa districts.

• La Thanh Station

Not far from the Giang Vo area - full of local eateries and cafes. A nice stop for street food lovers.

• Van Quan Station

Near Van Quan lake - a quiet, local hangout with cafés, walking paths, and a lakeside vibe that’s great for a mid-afternoon break.

• Yen Nghia Station

This terminal station connects easily with buses and is sometimes used as a jumping-off point for trips toward Mai Chau or Mai Hich.

Line 3 (Nhon – Cau Giay)

This line connects outer residential areas with more urban districts. 

• Nhổn Station

A suburban area - not touristy, but interesting for those who want to see real local neighborhoods.

• Cầu Giấy Station

Close to Thu Le Park, which has a small zoo and is one of the nicest parks in Hanoi. You can also visit the nearby Voi Phuc Temple.

6. Metro vs. Other transport options in Hanoi 

7. Recommended one-day tourist itinerary

Morning 

• Start at Cat Linh Station (Line 2A)
• Visit the Temple of Literature and the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum (they're within walking distance of each other)
• Take the metro to Cau Giay Station for lunch, there are plenty of local eateries and cafes nearby.

Afternoon 

• From Cau Giay Station, walk to Thu Le Park, one of Hanoi’s nicest green spaces with a small zoo
• Visit Voi Phuc Temple, located inside the park
• Enjoy a relaxing coffee at a lakeside or nearby café
• End your day by taking the metro back or grabbing a ride to your hotel.

8. Our practical tips

Before You Go

• Carry small cash (VND) if you're buying single tickets at vending machines.
• Plan your route: Check which metro station is closest to your destination. You may still need to walk or take a Grab for the “last mile.”

While Riding

• Sit on the right side for the best views of the city and lakes, especially going south on Line 2A.
• Avoid rush hours (7:30–9:00 AM & 5:00–6:30 PM) if you prefer a quieter ride.
• Use the metro as a window into local life - you'll see students, workers, families, and retirees going about their day.

Conclusion

Hanoi’s metro may still be in its early stages, but it already offers a simple, affordable, and comfortable way to move around the city. With clean trains, clear signage, and peaceful views, it's a great option for travelers looking to explore Hanoi beyond the typical tourist zones, without the stress of traffic or confusion.

Of course, the metro is just one part of the city’s growing transport network. Apps like Grab, Xanh SM, and Be offer convenient door-to-door service, especially useful for places not yet connected by metro. For longer journeys across Vietnam, you can choose between planes, trains, or buses depending on your route and budget. For more information, please read: How To Get Around Vietnam: Detailed Transport Options.

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