The Long Bien Bridge is a historic cantilever bridge that spans the Red River in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. The bridge was originally constructed by the French colonial administration in 1903-1904 during their occupation of Vietnam. It was supposedly designed by Gustave Eiffel, the same engineer who designed the Eiffel Tower in Paris, so there’s no surprise when people call it the “Horizontal Eiffel Tower”.

The Long Bien Bridge has historical significance, as it played a crucial role in the transportation network of northern Vietnam during both the French colonial period and the later conflict with the United States. During the American-Vietnam War, the bridge was repeatedly bombed by American forces but was quickly repaired after each bombing. As a result, it became a symbol of the resilience of the Vietnamese people.

The bridge is approximately 1.7 kilometers long and consists of a steel framework with a railroad track in the center and a roadway for motorbikes and pedestrians on either side. While it has undergone some renovations and repairs over the years, parts of the bridge still retain the original structure from the early 20th century.

Today, the Long Bien Bridge remains an important transportation route in Hanoi, and it also serves as a popular tourist attraction, offering panoramic views of the Red River and the city.

Where is Long Bien Bridge?

The Long Bien Bridge is located in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. It spans the Red River and connects two districts of Hanoi: Hoan Kiem and Long Bien. The bridge has historical significance and is an iconic landmark that’s in the vicinity of other attractions like the Hanoi Old Quarter, Hanoi Opera House, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Hoan Kiem Lake. If you're visiting Hanoi, the Long Bien Bridge is a notable site to explore, offering both historical and architectural interest.

From Hoan Kiem Lake, it’s about a 10 minute motorbike ride to Long Bien Bridge. If you live a bit further away from the city center, you can also take one of the following buses 03, 30A, 34, 36, 41, 58, 86 and get down at the closest stop to the bridge. 

When was Long Bien Bridge built ?

Through the bidding process of investors, the construction of Long Bien Bridge was officially commenced on September 12, 1898, with a total investment of 5,390,794 French Francs, making it the largest construction project in Indochina at that time. After over 3 years of construction, the Long Bien Bridge was officially inaugurated on February 28, 1902, under the name Doumer Bridge, named after the Governor-General of Indochina. The French colonial administration hoped that this bridge would serve as a tool for exploiting the colony's resources, both in Vietnam and the broader Indochina region. 

What’s so special about Long Bien Bridge’s architecture?

The Long Bien Bridge is 2,290 meters long across the river, consisting of 19 steel spans and 20 tall pillars. At the time of its inauguration, being the second-longest bridge in the world, following only the Brooklyn Bridge in the United States, the bridge was often referred to a horizontal Eiffel Tower.

The Long Bien Bridge is 4.75 meters wide, divided into 3 main lanes. In the middle is a single railway track, while on both sides are lanes for cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and a pedestrian walkway on the outermost side.

Architecturally, the bridge leaves a special mark with a harmonious design resembling a winding dragon—powerful, yet incredibly graceful. The entire bridge structure is made of high-quality cast iron steel using modern construction techniques, ensuring both aesthetic and safety considerations (you can tell because the bridge has been bombed at least twice throughout history and it is still standing).

Today, Hanoi has gained several more bridges crossing the Red River, such as Chuong Duong Bridge, Thang Long Bridge, Thanh Tri Bridge, Vinh Tuy Bridge, and Nhat Tan Bridge. However, the Long Bien Bridge remains an irreplaceable symbol of the capital city, with its ancient architecture and historical values preserved over more than 120 years.

Long Bien Bridge - A 120 year old historical witness

The Long Bien Bridge is an important historical witness that has been through two resistance wars against the French and subsequently the Americans. Aside from being used as a way to transport rice between cities during the French war, the bridge also bore witness to a bunch of significant historical events.

On September 2, 1945, when Uncle Ho read the Declaration of Independence at Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi, the Long Bien Bridge became the path leading thousands of suburban residents to the president in pure joy and pride.

In October 1954, as Hanoi overflowed with banners and flowers celebrating the liberation of the capital, the bridge stood there proudly witnessing the boundless jubilation of the people. Then, after 21 years, that same bridge once again witnessed the joy of comprehensive independence and reunification of the whole country, liberating the South. 

After more than 100 years of profound history, it is safe to say that Long Bien Bridge is an irreplaceable part of history, a companion to every citizen, and a symbol of the nation's journey through various hardships.

Visiting Long Bien Bridge

To this day, Long Bien Bridge is still one of the busiest bridges in Hanoi, with cars, bikes and trains constantly crossing it, not to mention vendors selling goods on the side of the bridge and people walking on it to enjoy the beautiful scenery. As the bridge holds a special place in every Hanoian’s heart, here are a few special ways that you can visit Long Bien bridge like a true Hanoian.

A place to chill, watch the sunset

As a bridge crossing the Red River, Long Bien Bridge already has something to offer scenically. It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon walk, while enjoying the cool autumn breeze and watching the trains go by! If you dare, climb into the train tracks to take pictures, especially during sunset when the bridge is most stunning. As you may know, this is one of the most popular ways to hang out on Long Bien bridge, especially for young people, so if you want the authentic experience feel free to do so but be careful as well! There is something so special about the bridge that washes away all your troubles and worries and fills you with a sense of nostalgia and peace, even just for a fleeting moment.

Have grilled sweet potato or corn

Remember the street vendors on the Long Bien Bridge we told you about earlier, aside from an early morning open market, they also sell grilled corn and sweet potato in the evening, especially during the colder days, and each stall is crowded with customers. Roasted corn and sweet potato is a simple dish, but when enjoyed on the bridge as the night falls makes one feel peaceful and light.

When you have the opportunity to visit the historically rich city of Hanoi, do not miss out on this interesting experience. You will feel a sense of familiarity and tranquility as you stand on this historical landmark and symbol of Hanoi.

Have a look from afar from a cafe

If you want to enjoy Long Bien Bridge from afar because vehicles and crowds are not your thing, then don’t worry, we have just the solution! Why not visit Serein Cafe & Lounge for a drink while having a look at the ancient bridge! Nestled on the 3rd and 4th floor of the Long Bien Train station complex at 16 Tran Nhat Duat Street, this is the only place that offers a panoramic view of Long Bien Bridge, the Hanoi Ceramic Road and the village from afar. From the outside, the cafe stands out with its elegant white tone, while the interior design carries a vintage green and brown color scheme, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a cafe in Paris. What better experience than chatting with friends over a nice Vietnamese coffee while gazing over the stunning Long Bien bridge!

Final thoughts

For over a century, the Long Bien Bridge has seen its fair share of battles and witnessed numerous events and glorious historical milestones. Naturally, the bridge is deeply ingrained in the memories of the people and has become a source of pride for the nation, a beautiful and meaningful symbol of the capital city.

With its nostalgic and ancient beauty, the Long Bien Bridge attracts many tourists from both within and outside the country who come to visit and admire its charm. The bridge has become a tourist destination on the Hanoi travel map that you should not miss.

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