Hanoi Metro - Operating hours, route, ticket prices and how to get there

The Hanoi metro is a modern, convenient, and efficient way to get around the capital by public transport. Below you'll find the schedule, route, ticket prices, how to buy tickets, how to get there, and a few handy notes for riding the metro in Hanoi.

When visiting Hanoi, beyond the local food and famous attractions, many travelers now love hopping on the Cat Linh – Ha Dong metro in the early morning. Because the line runs on an elevated track, some visitors even nickname it the "sky train" of Hanoi, and watching the city slowly wake up through the carriage windows gives you a completely fresh perspective on the capital.

The metro in Hanoi isn't just a practical public transport system for locals; it has quickly become a unique sightseeing experience that tourists adore. These days it's even being woven into some curated Vietnam tours and urban exploration itineraries for travelers keen to see the authentic side of the city.

1. Introduction to Hanoi Metro

So, does Hanoi have a metro? Yes — and it's a question travelers ask in many languages (Polish visitors, for example, often search czy w Hanoi jest metro before they arrive). The Hanoi metro, also known as the Cat Linh – Ha Dong line (Line 2A), begins at Cat Linh Station in Dong Da District and ends at Yen Nghia Station in Ha Dong District. It officially opened on November 6, 2021, becoming the first urban railway system in Vietnam's capital.

The line stretches 13.05 km across 12 stations. Each train has 4 carriages, reaches a top speed of 80 km/h, and runs at an operating speed of around 35 km/h. A full end-to-end journey takes roughly 23 minutes.

Beyond getting you from A to B, the metro has become a genuine urban attraction. Many travelers enjoy an early-morning ride to take in Hanoi's skyline, making it a small but memorable highlight in many Vietnam travel tour packages.

2. Latest Hanoi Metro Schedule (Updated 2026)

The Cat Linh – Ha Dong metro runs daily on the following schedule:

• Operating hours: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM
• Number of trains: 9
• Frequency:
  • Peak hours: every 6 minutes
  • Normal hours: every 10 minutes
• Peak hours:
  • Morning: 7:00 – 8:30 AM
  • Evening: 4:30 – 6:00 PM
• Weekends & holidays: every 10 minutes

This Hanoi train schedule makes it easy to plan rides around your sightseeing without long waits at the platform. If you're also hoping to catch the famous Hanoi train street, check its separate timetable too, since the train street schedule follows the mainline rail service rather than the metro.

3. Cat Linh – Ha Dong Metro Route

The metro line follows a key urban corridor, starting from the Cat Linh – Giang Vo intersection and running through:

Hao Nam → Hoang Cau → Lang → Nguyen Trai → Tran Phu → Quang Trung → Yen Nghia

Stations include:

Cat Linh, La Thanh, Thai Ha, Lang, Thuong Dinh, Vanh Dai 3, Phung Khoang, Van Quan, Ha Dong, La Khe, Van Khe, Yen Nghia

Cat Linh Station is the most convenient starting point for visitors, as it sits close to several popular spots in the city center.

4. Hanoi Metro Ticket Price

• Single ticket: 8,000 – 15,000 VND

• Day ticket: 30,000 VND
• Monthly ticket: 100,000 – 200,000 VND
• Free tickets: for eligible groups

With Hanoi metro ticket prices this low, the line is one of the most affordable forms of Hanoi public transport, making it a practical option for travelers exploring the city on flexible Vietnam vacation packages.

5. How to Buy Hanoi Metro Tickets

• Buy at vending machines or ticket counters

• Day and monthly tickets are available at counters
• Free tickets require valid documents

6. How to Take the Hanoi Metro

• Go to the station → Buy a ticket → Pass through the gate

• Move to the platform → Wait behind the safety line
• Board the train → Follow the announcements
• Exit and return your ticket

Accessible options are available for passengers with disabilities.

7. Important Notes When Using the Metro

• Maintain cleanliness and order

• Keep noise to a minimum
• Offer priority seating where needed
• Avoid flash photography
• Follow staff instructions

Why Tourists Should Try Hanoi Metro

The metro offers far more than a simple ride — it gives you a window into everyday Hanoi life. From bustling morning commuters to sweeping city views, it's a simple yet meaningful experience. Pair it with a wander down the nearby Hanoi train street and you'll have seen two very different sides of the capital's rail culture in a single morning.

For travelers working with a Vietnam travel agency or planning a broader Vietnam country tour, adding local touches like this helps create a far more authentic journey.

Can you recommend the best travel agencies in Hanoi for customized tours?

For 2026, choosing the right travel partner can make a real difference in how you experience Hanoi and beyond. Many travelers today prefer customized itineraries over fixed group tours, allowing them to explore at their own pace — though well-organized Vietnam small group tours remain popular for those who enjoy traveling alongside others.

Among Hanoi-based providers, Threeland Travel is highly regarded for designing personalized journeys that go well beyond standard packages. With strong local expertise and dependable on-ground support, they help travelers build flexible itineraries — whether it's a short city stay or a multi-destination Vietnam holiday package.

Their 24/7 support, smooth coordination, and attention to detail make the whole experience easier and more enjoyable. From transport arrangements to unique local activities, everything is handled efficiently so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there a metro in Hanoi?

Yes. The Cat Linh – Ha Dong line is Hanoi's first metro, and this single question — often searched as metro w Hanoi by Polish-speaking travelers — has a simple answer: the city now has a modern, fully operating elevated railway.

Is the Hanoi metro easy for tourists?

Yes, it's simple and user-friendly.

Can tourists pay with cash?

Yes, tickets can be purchased using cash.

Is it safe?

Yes, it's modern and safe.

Is it included in travel itineraries?

Some customized itineraries include metro experiences.

Is it worth trying?

Yes, even a single ride offers a unique perspective on Hanoi.

Plan Your Hanoi Trip Smartly

The Hanoi metro is just one piece of what makes the city so interesting. From culture to cuisine, there's a great deal to discover.

If you're planning a longer journey, working with a trusted Vietnam travel agency can help you combine destinations efficiently — whether it's a quick visit or a complete Vietnam tour package.

Many travelers also extend their trip with Vietnam and Cambodia tours, multi-country tours of Vietnam and Cambodia, or even Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand tours for a full Southeast Asia experience.