Hanoi’s metro system — the first in northern Vietnam — is now partially operational with 2 lines connecting western suburbs to central districts. Cat Linh-Ha Dong (Line 2A) opened in 2021 and Nhon-Hanoi Railway Station (Line 3) launched its first elevated stretch in 2024. While the network is limited compared to other Asian capitals, it’s clean, modern, air-conditioned, and dirt cheap. This complete Hanoi metro guide for 2026 covers all operating lines, fares, schedules, and where the metro is useful for tourists.

Aerial view of modern metro train in Vietnamese city
Hanoi’s elevated metro lines connect the city center to outer districts.

About Hanoi Metro

Hanoi Metro is a developing mass-transit system planned to eventually have 8 lines. As of 2026, two lines are operational with several others under construction or planned. The system uses fully air-conditioned trains, modern stations, and follows global metro standards.

Operational Lines (2026)

Line 2A: Cat Linh – Ha Dong

Woman in a metro station corridor in Vietnam
Hanoi metro stations are clean, modern, and air-conditioned.
  • Length: 13 km (fully elevated).
  • Stations: 12 stations.
  • Opened: November 2021.
  • Frequency: Every 6-10 min.
  • Hours: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM.
  • Travel time end-to-end: ~23 min.
  • Useful tourist stations: Cat Linh (near Hoan Kiem area — 15 min walk to Old Quarter), Van Quan (near tourist sights), La Khe.

Line 3: Nhon – Hanoi Railway Station

  • Length elevated: 8.5 km (12.5 km eventually).
  • Stations operational: 8 (elevated section).
  • Status: Elevated section running. Underground extension under construction.
  • Opened: August 2024 (elevated section).
  • Frequency: Every 8-12 min.
  • Hours: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM.
  • Useful tourist stations: Cau Giay (business district), Kim Ma (near Lotte Center, embassies).

Fares

  • Single trip Line 2A: 8,000-15,000 VND ($0.32-0.60) depending on distance.
  • Single trip Line 3: 12,000-15,000 VND.
  • Day pass: 30,000 VND ($1.20) unlimited.
  • Monthly card: 200,000 VND ($8) for residents.
  • Student/senior discount: 50% off.

How to Use Hanoi Metro

Passengers on a modern metro train in Vietnam
Hanoi metro lines run from 5 AM to 10 PM daily.

Buying Tickets

  1. Enter station and approach ticket machine or counter.
  2. Select destination on touchscreen (English available).
  3. Pay cash (small bills) or card.
  4. Receive contactless card token.
  5. Tap token at entry gate.
  6. Insert/tap card at exit to release gate.

Riding the Train

  • Follow signs to your platform direction.
  • Wait behind safety line.
  • Let passengers exit first.
  • Stand on right of escalators (left side is for walking).
  • Priority seats for elderly, pregnant, disabled.
  • No eating/drinking on trains.

Is the Metro Useful for Tourists?

Tourist Pros

  • Beat traffic: Metro is faster than Grab during rush hour.
  • Very cheap — 80% cheaper than Grab.
  • Air-conditioned — comfortable in summer heat.
  • Photographic experience for transit enthusiasts.
  • Useful for: Hanoi-Ha Dong day trips, business district access, Lotte Center area.

Tourist Cons

  • Limited coverage — doesn’t reach Old Quarter directly.
  • Only 2 lines currently operational.
  • Last-mile walking or Grab still needed.
  • Most tourist sights reached faster by Grab or walking.

Future Hanoi Metro Lines

  • Line 1: Ngoc Hoi – Yen Vien – Nhu Quynh (under planning).
  • Line 2: Noi Bai Airport – Hoan Kiem – West Lake (under construction; planned completion late 2020s).
  • Line 4: Lien Ha – Bac Thang Long (under planning).
  • Line 5: Van Cao – Hoa Lac (under construction).
  • Line 6: Noi Bai Airport – Ngoc Hoi (under planning).
  • Line 8: Son Dong – Mai Dich – Lac Long Quan (under planning).

The future Line 2 will be a game-changer for tourists once it connects the airport to Hoan Kiem.

Metro vs Other Hanoi Transport

  • Metro vs Grab Car: Metro is 5-10x cheaper but only useful for specific routes.
  • Metro vs Bus: Metro is faster, comparable price, more reliable.
  • Metro vs Walking: Walking better for Old Quarter; metro better for distant areas.
  • Metro vs Cyclo: Metro is fast transit; cyclo is leisurely experience.

Metro Etiquette

  • No food or drink.
  • No smoking (anywhere in stations or trains).
  • Give priority seats to elderly, disabled, pregnant.
  • Keep voice down.
  • No littering — fines apply.
  • Don’t block doors.
  • Photography OK; selfies on platforms fine.

Metro Tips for Tourists

  • Carry small bills for ticket machines.
  • Try Line 2A at least once for the experience.
  • Off-peak hours (10 AM-4 PM) are most pleasant.
  • Avoid rush hour (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) unless you must.
  • Tap out at your destination — you’ll need the token for exit gates.
  • Stand right, walk left on escalators.
  • Last train typically 9:55-10:00 PM.

Metro Safety

Hanoi Metro is very safe. Security cameras throughout. Security staff at all stations. Crime rare. Standard precautions:

  • Keep belongings close on crowded trains.
  • Be alert for pickpockets at entry/exit.
  • Don’t put phones in back pockets.
  • Single women safe to ride at any hour.

Hanoi Metro FAQs

How many metro lines does Hanoi have?

2 operational (2A and partial Line 3). Several more under construction or planning.

How much is a metro ride?

8,000-15,000 VND ($0.32-0.60) per trip.

Does the metro reach the airport?

Not yet. Line 2 (planned) will connect airport to Hoan Kiem. No completion date confirmed.

Does the metro reach Old Quarter?

Not directly. Cat Linh station (Line 2A) is 15-min walk from Hoan Kiem Lake area.

What hours does it operate?

5:30 AM – 10:00 PM daily.

Are signs in English?

Yes — bilingual Vietnamese/English throughout.

Can I use a contactless card?

Yes — pay with cash for token or use rechargeable card.

Are the stations accessible?

Yes — elevators and ramps at all stations. Visually-impaired aids available.

Plan Your Hanoi Metro Experience

The Hanoi metro is a fast-growing alternative to traffic-clogged streets. With this guide you have lines, fares, and tourist applications. Pair this guide with our complete Hanoi transportation guide, bus system guide, and Grab guide.