Travel By Train In Vietnam - Itinerary, Guides & Tips
Embark on an unforgettable train travel in Vietnam, where every kilometer reveals the country’s rich culture and natural beauty. With support from the Vietnam travel agency - Autour Asia, specialists in tailor-made tours, transform your trip into an authentic adventure combining comfort, discovery, and local encounters.
Table of Contents
I. What are the popular night trains in Vietnam?
Train travel in Vietnam offers a unique, immersive way to explore diverse landscapes—from lush rice fields to majestic mountains—giving travelers a fresh perspective on Vietnamese culture and daily life. Night trains are especially convenient for covering long distances while saving on accommodation.
1. Hanoi Sapa night train
- Departure: between 9:30 PM and 10:40 PM
- Arrival: between 5:25 AM and 6:25 AM
- Duration: about 8 hours
- Prices: from 748,000 VND for a soft sleeper berth
The night train from Hanoi to Lao Cai is popular for reaching Sapa, famous for its terraced rice fields and ethnic minorities. This train travel in Vietnam route offers an authentic, immersive experience with comfortable, often air-conditioned cabins featuring soft berths. Trains like the Chapa Express, Victoria Express, and Sapaly Express run between 9 PM and 10 PM, arriving around 6 AM.
Upon arrival, a transfer to Sapa is arranged, perfect for starting a day of hiking or village visits. This journey combines transportation and accommodation, creating a memorable adventure.
2. Hue Da Nang night train
a) Hanoi – Hue:
- Departure: evening (e.g., 7:25 PM)
- Arrival: next morning (e.g., 8:55 AM)
- Duration: about 13 to 14 hours
- Prices: from 806,000 VND for a soft sleeper berth
b) Hanoi – Da Nang:
- Departure: evening (e.g., 8:55 PM)
- Arrival: next morning (e.g., 12:32 PM)
- Duration: about 15 to 16 hours
- Prices: from 1,000,000 VND for a soft sleeper berth
The Hanoi – Hue – Da Nang route is another must-try train travel in Vietnam experience. Night trains like the Violette Express or Lotus Train offer comfortable cabins for a peaceful journey. The highlight is crossing the Hai Van Pass, with spectacular views of the East Sea.
Once in Hue, the former imperial capital, explore the Imperial City and royal tombs. In Da Nang, enjoy the beaches and visit the Marble Mountains.
3. Saigon Nha Trang night train
- Departure: e.g., 9:05 PM
- Arrival: next morning, around 5:30 AM
- Duration: about 8 hours
From Ho Chi Minh City, several night trains serve destinations like Nha Trang, Da Nang, and Hanoi. The Reunification Express is the most famous, linking north and south over 1,700 km. Cabins range from simple berths to luxury compartments, fitting all budgets. These routes offer a chance to discover Vietnam’s diversity—from central beaches to northern mountains.
II. Are there luxury trains for comfortable travel in Vietnam?
1. The Vietage by Anantara
- Route: Da Nang to Quy Nhon
- Travel time: about 6 hours
- Ticket price: from 400 USD per person
- Included services: private cabins, gourmet meals, relaxing massages, panoramic views
- Note: with only 12 passengers per trip, privacy and personalized service are guaranteed
The Vietage by Anantara offers a 6-hour journey between Da Nang and Quy Nhon, providing a luxurious train travel in Vietnam experience with private cabins, gourmet meals, and relaxing massages. With just 12 passengers per trip, privacy and personalized service are assured. This train travel in Vietnam allows travelers to discover the picturesque landscapes of central Vietnam while enjoying exceptional comfort.
2. SJourney – Indochinese elegance
- Route: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City or vice versa
- Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
- Ticket price: 8,610 USD per person
- Included services: spacious cabins with private bathrooms, exquisite cuisine, onboard cultural performances, and immersive excursions
- Note: this journey crosses some of the most spectacular landscapes in Vietnam, offering a unique cultural and historical immersion
SJourney offers a refined atmosphere inspired by Indochina, with spacious cabins, exquisite cuisine, and cultural performances onboard. This eight-day trip showcases the most stunning scenery of Vietnam.
3. Other luxury options
Other trains like the Chapa Express, Victoria Express, Violette Express, and Lotus Train provide high-quality services for an unforgettable train travel in Vietnam experience. These trains offer comfortable cabins, attentive service, and scenic routes.
III. Which train routes offer the most beautiful scenery in Vietnam?
Vietnam offers a variety of tourist trains to explore its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. These routes provide travelers a unique experience combining comfort and immersion in the country's natural beauty.
1. Saigon - Nha Trang train
- Travel time: about 7 to 9 hours
- Ticket prices vary by class and seat type, for example:
- Hard seat: 190,000 – 195,000 VND
- Hard seat with air conditioning: 210,000 – 270,000 VND
- Soft seat with air conditioning: 250,000 – 410,000 VND
Several trains run daily, such as SE8, SE6, SE22, SE10, SQN4, SE4, and SNT2, offering departures throughout the day.
2. Da Lat - Trai Mat train
- Travel time: about 25 to 30 minutes
- Ticket price: about 100,000 VND one-way, 150,000 VND round-trip
3. Da Nang - Hue train
Travel time: about 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours
Ticket prices vary by class and services offered
This train features air-conditioned carriages with large panoramic windows, crossing the Hai Van Pass.
4. Muong Hoa train to Fansipan summit
- Travel time: about 10 minutes
- Ticket price: 180,000 VND round-trip
This train, with classic European design, passes through tunnels and bridges, offering spectacular views of the Muong Hoa Valley.
IV. Tips for train travel in Vietnam
To make the most of your train travel experience in Vietnam, here are some practical tips:
- Book tickets in advance, especially during high season.
- Trains offer various classes, from hard seats to luxury cabins. For long trips, soft sleepers or private cabins are recommended.
- Bring comfortable clothes, snacks, water, and toiletries.
- Keep valuables secure and stay vigilant at stations.
Train travel in Vietnam is a rewarding adventure, blending cultural discovery, breathtaking scenery, and authentic encounters. With the expertise of the Vietnam travel agency - Autour Asia, plan a tailor-made itinerary suited to your desires and needs. Their deep knowledge of the country and attention to detail guarantee a memorable journey.
The Vietnam travel agency - Autour Asia provides full support for organizing your train travel in Vietnam. Our services include ticket booking, personalized itinerary planning, and coordination of transfers to and from train stations. With our local expertise, we ensure a smooth and authentic travel experience tailored to your specific needs.
Yes, it is still possible to visit Hanoi train street, although access is now more regulated for safety reasons. The most well-known sections are located between Phung Hung and Tran Phu streets.
To enter, it is recommended to go through one of the cafés located along the tracks, which allow access to visitors in exchange for a purchase. Trains pass several times a day, especially in the late afternoon and evening, offering a unique experience for photography lovers and those interested in local culture.
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