Travelling by train in Vietnam is one of the most rewarding ways to discover the country's diverse landscapes, from lush mountains and vibrant cities to spectacular coastlines. Although trains in Vietnam are slower than domestic flights, they offer a comfortable, safe and authentic travel experience that many visitors consider a highlight of their trip. Whether you are planning a short scenic journey or travelling the length of the country on the famous North–South Railway, understanding how Vietnam's railway system works will help you travel with confidence. This complete Vietnam railway guide covers everything you need to know, including railway routes, ticket booking, train classes, fares, practical travel tips and the best journeys to make your train adventure smooth and memorable.
❓ Why choose the train to travel around Vietnam?
For many travellers, taking the train in Vietnam is much more than simply getting from one destination to another. It is an opportunity to admire Vietnam's changing landscapes, meet local passengers and enjoy a slower, more authentic way of exploring the country. Although trains are generally slower than domestic flights, they offer greater comfort than many long-distance buses and allow you to experience famous routes such as the spectacular Hai Van Pass between Hue and Da Nang. If you are wondering whether travelling by train is worth it, the answer depends on your itinerary, budget and travel style, points we explain throughout this guide.
Vietnam's railway system began operating in the early 20th century, with the Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh City line opening in 1936. After the war, despite heavy damage to the rail network, it was restored and reopened in 1976 under the name "Reunification Express", symbolizing the country's unification.
Each station and railway line represents a journey through history, stretching from the north to the south of Vietnam, attracting many travelers seeking an authentic experience.
Today, Vietnam railway network stretches for more than 2,600 kilometres, connecting most major cities from Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south. Operated mainly by Vietnam Railways, the network includes over 160 stations and several branch lines linking destinations such as Hai Phong, Lao Cai and Dong Dang. While trains are not the fastest way to travel, they remain one of the country's most scenic and relaxing transportation options.
Vietnam train map includes a main line connecting the north and south, along with secondary lines linking Hanoi to northern provinces and Ho Chi Minh City to southern provinces. With numerous stations across the country, train travel in Vietnam has become popular, especially for tourists with flexible schedules.
What are the main train routes in Vietnam?
Vietnam's railway network is organised around the North-South Railway, commonly known as the Reunification Express, which links Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City over a journey of approximately 1700 kilometres. Along the way, trains stop at popular destinations including Ninh Binh, Vinh, Dong Hoi, Hue, Da Nang, Tam Ky, Quang Ngai, Quy Nhon, Tuy Hoa, Nha Trang and Phan Thiet.
In addition to the main line, several branch routes connect travellers to other regions. The Hanoi–Lao Cai railway is widely used by visitors travelling to Sapa, while the Hanoi-Hai Phong route provides easy access to Cat Ba Island via Hai Phong. Another line connects Hanoi with Dong Dang near the Chinese border.
Understanding these major Vietnam railway routes helps travellers plan realistic itineraries and decide when travelling by train is the best option compared with flying or taking a bus.
Compared to high-speed trains, trains in Vietnam run relatively slowly, at about 70 km/h. This allows you to fully enjoy the scenery through the train windows. A train journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City takes over 30 hours, but it will take you through breathtaking landscapes, passing lively cities, rice fields, villages, mountains, and coastal passes. It’s an experience you’ll only find when traveling by train in Vietnam.
Vietnam railways have fixed schedules and are less affected by weather conditions compared to air travel, helping you avoid delays during your vacation.
Train cabins in Vietnam have been upgraded, becoming cleaner and more modern, with different classes available. All carriages are equipped with air conditioning, private toilets, and cabins offer options of 6, 4, or even 1 bed, allowing you to relax comfortably.
With over 113 railway stations in Vietnam, most are located in city centers, making travel more convenient than airports. Additionally, you can bring as much luggage as you like as long as it doesn’t obstruct other passengers' space.
Finally, trains are considered the safest means of transport. The journey follows a fixed track, avoiding sudden changes of direction and dangerous situations.
Train tickets in Vietnam are cheaper than plane tickets. Plus, there are no extra fees for luggage. Another benefit is that you can bring your own meals on board, although onboard meals are not too expensive either.
In addition to the trains connecting the north and south of Vietnam with basic amenities, many Vietnam tourist trains have been introduced to promote tourism, such as:
--> So, travel to Vietnam, train, plane or sleeper bus: which is the best option?
Transport | Best for | Travel time | Comfort | Scenic experience |
Train | Slow travel | Medium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Flight | Long distances | Fast | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
Sleeper bus | Budget travellers | Medium | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
For in-person purchases: You can go to the station, choose your destination, and buy your ticket before waiting in the lounge for the train's departure.
For online purchases: You can book directly on the official website of Vietnam Railways (dsvn.vn). Simply enter your details regarding the departure station, arrival station, one-way or round trip, as well as the desired date and time. The site will offer available seats for you to choose from, and then you can pay and receive your electronic ticket via email. On the day of departure, you just need to go to the counter to exchange your electronic ticket for a paper ticket.
Should you book train tickets in advance?
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during Vietnamese public holidays, Tet Lunar New Year and the summer travel season. Popular overnight sleeper cabins often sell out several weeks ahead. For ordinary weekdays, reserving your ticket three to seven days before departure is usually sufficient. Discover Vietnam by train, if you are travelling with family or wish to secure a private cabin, booking as early as possible will give you more choice and better prices.
The Da Nang - Hue railway takes you through the Hai Van Pass, often considered one of the most scenic rides in Vietnam. This journey offers spectacular views of majestic nature, with the Truong Son mountain range on one side and the East Sea on the other.
This Dalat tourist train, different from the main railway lines in Vietnam, offers an unforgettable experience in this region. You can enjoy tea, listen to live violin melodies, admire flower fields, and soak in the elegant atmosphere reminiscent of the aristocratic journeys of the past.
This tourist train in Sapa, the Muong Hoa funicular, offers a unique exploration of the grand landscapes of Northwest Vietnam. The train climbs along the mountains, providing impressive views of the surrounding peaks and the illusion of floating amidst the clouds.
On the 200 km journey, the train from Ho Chi Minh City to Binh Thuan passes through lush dragon fruit orchards and vast wind farm fields. In good weather, you can even glimpse the blue sea on the horizon.
💬 💬 Our favourite train journey in Vietnam:
Explore Vietnam train map, among all railway routes in Vietnam, the journey between Hue and Da Nang remains our favourite recommendation for first-time visitors. Having arranged this trip for many international travellers, we have consistently received excellent feedback thanks to its breathtaking coastal scenery. The train Hue to Da Nang slowly winds around the Hai Van Pass, offering uninterrupted views of Lang Co Bay, fishing villages and lush mountains that simply cannot be appreciated from a highway or airplane. If you only have time for one train experience in Vietnam, this is the one we recommend.
When is the best time to take this Vietnam most scenic train route?
----> Travel Vietnam by train, without a doubt, ideally in the morning or late afternoon. It’s the perfect moment to enjoy the full beauty of one of most stunning railway system in vietnam, gazing out the window, lulled by the gentle rhythm of the rails. May be you're interested in:
The Sapa night trains usually depart between 9 PM and 10 PM from Hanoi and arrive in Sapa around 6 AM. After a night's sleep, you'll wake up in the charming, misty town of Sapa, in northern Vietnam. This option is very popular among travelers.
This Hanoi to Hue train offers an excellent opportunity to explore central Vietnam. There are 6 daily departures. If you travel during the day, you can enjoy the scenery, but to save time, you can take a sleeper train that leaves Hanoi at 7 PM and arrives in Hue at 8 AM the next morning.
How to get around in Vietnam? If you are in southern Vietnam, you can take a night train to Da Nang from Ho Chi Minh City. With 6 daily departures, the trains starting from 2 PM will allow you to enjoy the sunset on board, and you’ll arrive in Da Nang at 10 AM the next morning.
From Ho Chi Minh City, the night train to Nha Trang is one of the most popular overnight hops on the North-South line: you board in the evening, sleep through the journey and step off on the coast early the next morning, with a whole day ahead of you on the beach. Cabins range from simple berths to more comfortable compartments, so there is an option for every budget. The same line continues north to Da Nang and Hanoi for those travelling the full length of the country.
💬❓Which train seat or sleeper should you choose?
Choosing the right seat or sleeper depends on both the length of your journey and your travel preferences. For short daytime trips, such as Hanoi to Ninh Binh train or Hue to Da Nang, soft seats offer a comfortable and affordable option with air conditioning and generous legroom. Hard seats are the cheapest choice but may become uncomfortable on longer journeys.
If you are travelling overnight, soft sleeper cabins are generally the best option for international visitors. These cabins usually accommodate four passengers, provide comfortable beds, clean bedding and a quieter atmosphere, making it easier to rest during long journeys. Hard sleeper cabins, typically arranged with six berths, are a more budget-friendly alternative but offer less privacy and space.
Families, couples or travellers seeking extra comfort may also consider booking a private cabin when available. Travel to Vietnam by train, although slightly more expensive, it provides a more peaceful experience and is often worth the additional cost on journeys lasting more than eight hours.
Alongside the regular services of Vietnam Railways, a handful of private operators run carriages designed for travellers rather than commuters. They cost considerably more than a standard sleeper, but they turn the journey itself into part of the holiday rather than a way of getting from one city to the next.
The Vietage by Anantara is the best-known example on the central coast. It links Da Nang and Quy Nhon in about six hours and carries only 12 passengers per departure, so the atmosphere is closer to a boutique hotel than a train: private seating, a full meal served on board, a massage during the ride and wide windows for the coastal scenery between the two cities.
SJourney takes the idea much further. This Indochina-styled train travels the whole length of the country between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City over 8 days and 7 nights, with spacious cabins with private bathrooms, refined cuisine, cultural performances on board and excursions at the main stops along the way. Think of it as a cruise on rails rather than a transfer.
Tourist carriages on the overnight lines are the most accessible option. Several companies attach their own carriages to the regular night trains and sell them under their own names: Victoria Express, Chapa Express, Sapaly Express and Livitrans on the Hanoi to Lao Cai line for Sa Pa, and Violette Express or Lotus Train on the Hanoi to Hue and Da Nang route. Expect air-conditioned cabins with soft berths and more attentive service than in the standard carriages. Fares and inclusions change often, so check directly with the operator before you book.
Travelling by train in Vietnam is simple and comfortable, especially if you prepare a few essentials before departure. These practical tips will help you enjoy a smoother and more relaxing railway journey.
Is Hanoi Train Street a train route? No. Hanoi Train Street is a short stretch of residential street in Hanoi's Old Quarter where the railway line runs right between the houses, a step away from people's front doors. It is a place to watch a train pass, not a journey you can book, and it does not appear on any railway map. If you would like to see it, our guide to Hanoi Train Street explains how to visit it.
Travelling by train in Vietnam is more than simply moving from one destination to another, it is an opportunity to experience the country's diverse landscapes, local culture and slower pace of life. Discover Vietnam travel by train, from choosing the right train class and booking your tickets to planning scenic routes and preparing for overnight journeys, a little preparation can make your trip far more enjoyable. Whether you are travelling between major cities or exploring Vietnam's famous coastal railway, the train offers a comfortable and memorable way to discover the country. We hope this guide about Vietnam railway helps you plan your journey with confidence and make the most of one of Vietnam's most authentic travel experiences.
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