How to use the Hanoi Metro (Guide for travelers)
Hanoi’s metro is a strong option when you want predictable travel time and less exposure to traffic congestion.
This guide covers ticketing, station navigation, etiquette, and how to combine metro with ride-hailing for an efficient last-mile connection.
Quick summary
Typical operating window: around 5:30 AM–10:00 PM (may vary by line).Ticket types: single-ride, day passes, and longer passes depending on your needs.Easy workflow: buy ticket → gates → platform → correct direction → exit.Best practice: metro for corridors, ride-hailing for the final stretch.
Metro from zero: a 10-minute learning pathStep 1 – choose stations: identify the nearest station to your origin and destination using a map.Step 2 – buy a ticket: purchase at the counter or machine; consider a day pass if you will ride multiple times.Step 3 – pass the gates: tap/scan and follow signs for the right direction.Step 4 – ride and exit: let passengers off first, hold the handrail, and follow Exit signage at your stop.Step 5 – last mile: use walking or ride-hailing from the station exit to reach your final address.
How to choose the right ticketSingle ride: best for occasional trips or first-time testing.Day pass: convenient if you plan to move between multiple points in one day.Longer passes: useful for extended stays or repeated commuting.
Metro + ride-hailing: a time-saving strategyUse metro to cut across congested corridors, then call a short last-mile ride from the station.For small groups, last-mile ride-hailing is often more comfortable than long walks.Check weather before exiting—rain can change your last-mile plan.
Safety and etiquetteKeep belongings close and avoid blocking doors and walkways.Offer seats to elderly passengers when crowded.Avoid strong-smelling food inside the train.
Stay practical near your scheduleIf your plan is concentrated in West Hanoi (Cau Giay – My Dinh – Keangnam), staying near major corridors saves both time and transport cost.Front desk support and local routing tips can make each day smoother—especially under rush-hour conditions.
Choose the right option in 30 seconds
Lots of luggage / group travel: take a taxi or ride-hailing for door-to-door simplicity.Budget mode: use bus/metro for the long corridor, then ride-hailing for the last mile.Tight schedule: pre-book a car and add rush-hour buffer time.Multiple stops: consider an hourly car to reduce waiting and switching.
Before you ride: a quick checklist
Pin the hotel location and screenshot the route in case data drops.Verify the car/driver and confirm all luggage is loaded.Keep small cash and a cashless backup to pay smoothly.Request an invoice before the ride starts if needed.Before exiting, re-check passport, phone, wallet, and bags.
Time-saving tactics in Hanoi
Avoid cross-city transfers during 7:00–9:00 and 16:30–19:00 if possible.Group destinations by area (Cau Giay – My Dinh – Keangnam – Me Tri).Use clear pickup points (main gate / main lobby).In rain, order rides 5–10 minutes earlier due to higher demand.
Practical stay tip
Cluster locations to reduce traffic risk.Visit the city center in one planned block (half day) instead of multiple short trips.Ask the front desk for the most practical route by time of day.
Related reading
More English guides on pinghotel.vnVietnamese guides on pinghotel.vn
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What are typical metro operating hours?
Many services run around 5:30 AM–10:00 PM, but schedules can change. Check station notices for the latest timing.
Where can I buy tickets?
At the station ticket counter or vending machines, then use the ticket to pass entry gates.
Is pricing fixed?
Single-ride pricing is often distance-based, and there are also day and longer passes depending on the system.
How can I use the metro from the Keangnam/Me Tri area?
Take a short ride-hailing trip to the most convenient station, ride the metro along the main corridor, then use last-mile ride-hailing.
Is the metro suitable for large luggage?
Yes, but it’s easier outside peak hours. For very bulky luggage, direct ride-hailing may be more comfortable.
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