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Long Bien Bridge, Vietnam - Things to Do in Long Bien Bridge

Things to Do in Long Bien Bridge

Long Bien Bridge, Vietnam - Complete Travel Guide

American bombs hit Long Bien Bridge repeatedly during the Vietnam War, yet this steel giant still carries trains across Hanoi's Red River after more than 120 years. The French built it between 1899 and 1902, naming it after Governor-General Paul Doumer. Today it attracts photographers and history buffs who come for impressive sunrises over the water. The bridge has a unique view of Hanoi's urban sprawl—you can watch trains rumble past while taking in complete views of the city's evolving skyline and the winding river below.

Top Things to Do in Long Bien Bridge

Sunrise Photography

Golden hour works magic here. Soft light filters through the steel framework and reflects off the Red River below. Early morning mist often adds ethereal quality to shots—the silhouettes of commuters crossing provide compelling human elements.

Booking Tip: No booking required - arrive by 5:30 AM during summer months for best light. Bring a tripod and dress warmly during winter months as river winds can be quite cold.

Train Watching

Several trains cross daily. These vintage locomotives thunder across the century-old structure with serious drama. The contrast between old and new makes compelling viewing—the bridge's industrial design doesn't hurt either.

Booking Tip: Train schedules vary but typically run every 2-3 hours during daylight. Check current timetables at Hanoi Railway Station or ask locals for approximate times.

Historical Walking Tour

Walking gives you intimate access. You'll see war-damaged sections, original French construction details, and memorial plaques up close. The pedestrian walkway runs alongside railway tracks—perfect for examining this engineering marvel and its battle scars.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks are free, but consider hiring a local guide for $15-20 to learn about the bridge's wartime history and architectural significance. Wear sturdy shoes as the walkway can be uneven.

Red River Views

Views stretch for miles. The bridge provides elevated shots of the Red River, Hanoi's sprawling districts, and surrounding countryside. On clear days you can spot traditional fishing boats, modern developments, and the city's mix of colonial and contemporary architecture spreading in all directions.

Booking Tip: Best views are from the center span of the bridge. Visit during dry season (October-March) for clearest visibility. No admission fee, but bring sun protection during midday visits.

Sunset Viewing

Evening light creates drama. Steel structure silhouettes emerge while the Red River below reflects changing sky colors. Local couples and families gather here during golden hour—the atmosphere turns romantic and social.

Booking Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for best positioning. The bridge can get crowded during weekends, so weekday evenings offer a more peaceful experience. Check weather conditions as overcast skies diminish the sunset effect.

Getting There

Long Bien Bridge sits two kilometers northeast of Hanoi's Old Quarter and won't break your budget to reach. Motorbike taxis cost 30,000-50,000 VND from central Hanoi, while regular taxis run 60,000-80,000 VND. Bus routes 03 and 47 stop near the bridge approaches, though you'll walk the final 500 meters. Many visitors rent bicycles or motorbikes for independence—this also makes exploring the surrounding Long Bien District much easier.

Getting Around

Walking is your only option once you're on Long Bien Bridge, using the pedestrian walkway that runs alongside the railway tracks. The walkway spans 1.68 kilometers, though most visitors stick to the central sections for the best views and photos. Watch for uneven surfaces and gaps in the walkway, and always listen for approaching trains. The bridge connects both sides of the Red River—Long Bien Station sits on the eastern end while approach roads lead back toward central Hanoi on the western side.

Where to Stay

Old Quarter
French Quarter
Long Bien District
Tay Ho District
Dong Da District
Ba Dinh District

Food & Dining

Food near Long Bien Bridge beats tourist traps hands down, with family-run pho shops and com binh dan stalls serving hearty meals at rock-bottom prices. Long Bien Market sits near the bridge's eastern approach and features vendors selling fresh banh mi, che, and seasonal fruits. The nearby Gia Lam district has excellent seafood restaurants specializing in Red River fish dishes and traditional northern Vietnamese food that locals have enjoyed for generations.

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When to Visit

Visit during dry season. Hanoi's clear skies from October through March provide the best visibility for photography and sightseeing. Early morning visits between 5:30-7:00 AM offer dramatic lighting and fewer crowds, while late afternoon visits from 4:30-6:00 PM deliver excellent sunset opportunities. December through February can be chilly and misty, which adds atmosphere to photos but requires warm clothing—the bridge and river winds don't mess around.

Insider Tips

Train conductors sometimes help. They'll let visitors photograph from train windows during slower crossings for small tips of 20,000-50,000 VND. This unique perspective is worth it.
Original French ironwork survives best here. Check the third and fourth spans from the western approach where detailed craftsmanship from early 1900s construction remains intact. Total time capsule.
Hit Long Bien Market first. Visit early morning before heading to the bridge where vendors sell excellent Vietnamese coffee and banh chung. Perfect bridge picnic supplies.

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Itineraries

Sample trip routes and plans for Long Bien Bridge

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Long Bien Bridge

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Long Bien Bridge

Budget Guide

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