A Walk On The Long Bien Bridge in Hanoi, Vietnam

The Long Bien Bridge in Hanoi, Vietnam. © Marla Brown

A walk across the historic Long Bien Bridge is an experience that captures the essence of Vietnam's history and culture in the city of Hanoi. Located about 1km from the Old Quarter, this bridge is worth a visit.

Before you visit, it's nice to know some history about this iconic location in Hanoi.

A train passes over the historical Long Bien Bridge. ©Marla Brown

A Brief History of the Long Bien Bridge

The Long Bien Bridge was constructed during the French occupation of Vietnam in the early 20th century. When it was completed in 1903, it was the second longest bridge in the world, after the Brooklyn Bridge in London.

Although designed by the French, it was built by the Vietnamese people and was the first steel bridge to cross the Red River in Hanoi.

The Long Bien Bridge is a unique symbol of Hanoi's history. It was bombed many times by air attacks by the American army in 1967 and 1972. Many of the original 19 spans on the bridge were destroyed. The sections of the bridge that survived the war are still standing today and are a must-see destination on a visit to Hanoi.

Locals cross the Long Bien Bridge. © Marla Brown

When You Visit The Long Bien Bridge

One of six bridges crossing the Red River today, the Long Bien Bridge offers tourists an unforgettable experience. It is one of the significant historical attractions in the City, not to mention the unique architecture and the cultural experience surrounding the Bridge.

I have always entered the Bridge from the Old Quarter in Hanoi. Long Bien is approximately a 2 km walk from Hoan Kiem Lake.

A view of the Long Bien Bridge. © Shutterstock

Sunrise and sunset are the best times to photograph the Long Bien Bridge. The morning also offers the big fruit market at the foot of the bridge (the Cho Dau Moi Long Bien).

Riders On The Left-Hand Side

Although traffic in Vietnam is on the right-hand side of the road, pedestrians and scooters flow on the left-hand side of the road on the Long Bien Bridge. The train tracks run down the middle of the bridge.

Photographers often use the bridge as a beautiful background for portraiture and wedding photography.

Locals travel on the left side of the Long Bien Bridge. ©Marla Brown

Experience the Culture Around The Bridge

The Long Bien Bridge is a great place to experience the daily hustle and bustle of Vietnamese life in Hanoi. A walk through the neighborhoods, markets, and down the train tracks offers tourists a chance to see this vibrant city at work.

Explore the neighborhoods and markets around the Long Bien Bridge. ©Marla Brown

If you can visit Hanoi, I highly recommend a walk on the Long Bien Bridge. Take your time, explore the daily life surrounding the bridge, and remember its heroic past.

Happy travels!

Marla

To view my complete collection of photography from Vietnam, visit my Art Shop!