Vietnam Train Travel 2025: Essential Local Guide & Tips

1. Focus on Vietnamese railways

A true colonial heritage, the Vietnamese railway system was introduced to Vietnam at the time of French domination. Construction of the North-South railway began in 1899 and took more than 30 years to complete. On October 2, 1936, the entire 1726 km Hanoi – Saigon line was officially put into service. 

It was and remains today the only railway line connecting Hanoi and Saigon. Unfortunately, during the war years in the 20th century, fighting against occupying foreign forces with relentless bombing by the Americans almost marked the end of the railway.

Rebuilding the crumbling network quickly became a priority after the country's reunification in 1975. The heavily damaged and war-torn North-South line was restored and returned to service in 1976. It was then renamed “Reunification Express” as a symbol of Vietnamese unity.

Vietnam train map 

The “Reunification Express” line is operated by Vietnam Railways (VNR), a Vietnamese state company. With a length of 2600 km, the Vietnam train serves almost all cities and provinces in Vietnam, including many cultural and tourist destinations from north to south. Find the train map in Vietnam here: 

>>> Learn more about: Vietnam Map & Regions: Vietnam Tourist Map

2. Why choose a Vietnam train trip?

Before traveling by train in Vietnam, it's important to note that the Vietnamese rail system is not as modern as those in some other countries. With speeds of 50 to 60 km/h, it takes over 30 hours to travel from Hanoi to Saigon.

Some lines humorously nicknamed “Vietnam TGV” stand for “Great Vibration Train” due to the narrow 1m gauge tracks dating back to the colonial period. Despite these quirks, is the Vietnam train worth trying? What contributes to its picturesque reputation?

In today's fast-paced world, speed is often prioritized, but travel sometimes calls for slowing down. Train travel in Vietnam allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful scenery through the window, turning the journey into a moment of relaxation rather than a stressful commute.

The real charm of train travel in Vietnam is the scenery. Tracks wind through mountains, forests, and valleys, offering views you can't get any other way. The slow pace lets you soak it all in and snap some unforgettable photos along the way.

Good to know:

Lonely Planet just named Vietnam’s Thong Nhat train one of the world’s top train journeys for 2025, beating out routes like the California Zephyr and the Beijing-Lhasa Express.
This iconic North-South line will provide you with stunning views along Vietnam’s coast and is a favorite in Southeast Asia.

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Despite improvements in the interprovincial bus system and domestic flights, train travel in Vietnam is still a favorite for many, and here’s why:

1. Scenic views: Trains pass through mountains, forests, and valleys, giving travelers a front-row seat to the country’s beauty at a relaxed pace.
2. Budget-friendly: Tickets are often two to three times cheaper than flights.
3. Safe: With upgraded rail lines, low speeds, and one train per track, it’s one of the safest ways to travel.

3. The most beautiful train journeys in Vietnam

3.1 Hanoi - Sapa night train

• Estimated time: 296 km - 8 hours of getting around
• Reference Price: 13.13 - 16.88 EUR / 14.44 - 18.57 USD

Sapa, a highland station in Lao Cai Province, was founded by the French in 1922. The Hanoi-Lao Cai railway, part of the Vietnam-Kunming route, was inaugurated in 1910. Sapa is a famous tourist destination because of its breathtaking scenery and vibrant ethnic cultures. Many passengers save money by taking the Hanoi-Sapa night train, which runs twice a day.

Note:

SP1 and SP2: This train offers private sleeping cars for tourists, served by companies such as Fansipan, Livitrans, Orient Express and The Pumpkin Express. 

SP3 and SP4: Much of this train consists of private sleeping cars, including Sapaly, Chapa, Laman and Victoria Express. The latter is one of the most luxurious trains on the Hanoi – Sapa route, accommodating 40 passengers with luxury cabins, bar and restaurant.

If you love trekking, check out Top 10 Best Vietnam Trekking & Hiking Tours!!

3.2 Train Hanoi - Hue

• Estimated time: 653 km - 14 hours of moving
• Reference price: 17.89 - 24.38 EUR / 19.68 - 26.82 USD

The Imperial City of Hue, recognized for its rich history, stunning beaches, and distinctive food, is a must-see destination in Vietnam. The train journey from Hanoi to Hue takes approximately 14 hours and costs between $36 and $80.
Five trains run daily, including normal Vietnam Railways alternatives and luxury night trains from Livitrans, Laman, Lotus, and Violette, which provide a more comfortable ride with better services.

3.3. Hue to Da Nang Train

• Estimated time: 110 km - 2.5 - 3 hours to move
• Reference price: 9.25 - 23.44 EUR / 10.40 - 25.79 USD

The train journey from Hue to Da Nang is considered the most beautiful route in Vietnam, offering passengers spectacular views as they pass through Lang Co. Bay. It is one of the most beautiful bays in the world, according to Worldbays.

This experience can be enjoyed on board several trains, including the SE5, SE3, SE19, SE1 and SE, which offer different seating options.

From 2024, a special tourist service called "Connecting to the Heritage of Central Vietnam" has been introduced, with trains such as the HĐ1, HĐ2, HĐ3 and HĐ4. These trains feature comfortable, soft, air-conditioned seats and a community cabin that offers local cultural and culinary programs.

Each trip provides a comfortable environment and usually makes a stop at Lang Co Station, where travelers can enjoy 10 minutes to appreciate the stunning views. A train ride from Hue to Da Nang is sure to make for an unforgettable memory during your exploration of central Vietnam.

3.4 Train Saigon - Nha Trang  

Being known as one of the best seaside resorts in Vietnam, the coastal city of Nha Trang is undoubtedly a must-see stop when passing through the central region. It is accessible from Saigon by a train journey of 8 to 9 hours. There are 6 trains per day on this line, which are operated by Vietnam Railways and Livitrans (SNT1 and SNT2). The ticket price varies between $30 to $40.

3.5 Trains like no other  

• Rack railway in Dalat

Dalat, often known as Vietnam’s most romantic city, is home to the country’s most beautiful train station, built in Art Deco style and inspired by France’s Deauville station.

Once, a rare cog railway ran 84 km from Dalat to Thap Cham, using a central toothed rail to climb steep slopes. It was powered by Swiss-made steam locomotives and was one of only two railways of its kind in the world.

Today, visitors can still ride a 7 km section from Dalat Station to Trai Mat, a short but memorable journey through Vietnam’s railway heritage.

Luxury train “Indochina” Danang – Quy Nhon

Launched on July 1, 2020, The Vietage connects Danang and Quy Nhon in a 6-hour journey. Its Indochine-inspired design features wooden floors and yellow rattan seats. With just 12 seats, the train offers privacy, a restaurant, bar, and massage services, redefining Vietnam train travel in style.

4. How to choose your seat on a train in Vietnam?

Vietnam train tickets come in four main categories, each offering different levels of comfort and price:

1. Hard Seat: Cheapest and least comfortable, mainly used for day trips.
2. Soft Seat: More comfortable and more expensive than hard seats mainly used for day trips.
3. Hard Berth: Used for night trains with 3 levels of beds (six per compartment); prices vary depending on the berth level (upper berths are the cheapest) and compartments do not have doors.
4. Soft Sleeper: Used for night trains, 2 levels of beds (four per compartment), and all bunk beds are charged the same rate.

Several private companies like Victoria Express, Orient Express, Livitrans, Violette, and Laman rent and upgrade train cars from Vietnam Railways, offering a more comfortable experience for tourists.

They provide private sleeping cars with soft berths, air conditioning, clean bedding, Western-style toilets, and extras like bottled water and snacks. It's a convenient and cozy way to travel long distances by train in Vietnam.

5. How to book your train ticket?

To buy a train ticket online, visit the official Vietnam Railways website: dsvn.vn. Select your desired train and carriage class from the search results and proceed to purchase. Note that you may need a Vietnamese cell phone number with a country code, and non-Vietnamese credit cards are typically not accepted.

If this process seems too complex, you can easily buy Vietnam train tickets directly at the station upon arrival. However, trains are often busy, especially during rush hours and holidays like Tet. Therefore, it is recommended to book your ticket a few days in advance.

Alternatively, you can travel with a local travel agency in Vietnam providing private tours who will take care of your reservations and transfers to and from the station.

There you have it, you have a general overview of Vietnam rail transport, we hope that this practical information will help you in organizing your future Vietnam train trip, which will prove to be unusual and unforgettable.

6. Does Vietnam have luxury trains?

Yes, Vietnam has luxury trains that offer scenic views, cultural stops, and comfortable cabins with fine dining. A great option for those wanting a unique, high-end travel experience.

Here’s what makes them extraordinary:

• Exquisite Accommodations:
  Designed to reflect Vietnam’s culture and charm, the grand private cabins feature en-suite bathrooms, plush bedding, and elegant decor inspired by Vietnamese heritage. Every detail, from the woodwork to the soft lighting, is crafted to create an ambiance of relaxation and refinement.

• Gourmet Dining:
  Indulge in culinary delights prepared using fresh, local ingredients. Passengers are treated to a harmonious blend of traditional Vietnamese dishes and international cuisine, paired with fine wines or crafted cocktails for an unforgettable dining experience.

• Off-Train Excursions:
  Each journey is enriched by guided off-train excursions, allowing travelers to delve deep into the culture and history of Vietnam. 

Top Luxury Train Operators

1. Victoria Express (Hanoi to Sapa)

With its colonial-inspired design, the Victoria Express exudes old-world charm. Spacious cabins, an onboard lounge, and a gourmet dining car make the journey as memorable as the destination.

2. The Vietage (Da Nang to Quy Nhon to Nha Trang)

This exclusive train offers an intimate and luxurious experience along Vietnam’s central coast. With panoramic lounges and wellness services, it’s a haven of relaxation.

3. SJourney (Across Vietnam)

Known for its Indochine-inspired elegance, the SJourney is an 8-day expedition through Vietnam’s most iconic locations. Spacious cabins and personalized excursions make it a standout choice.

>>> For more information, please read: Luxury Trains in Vietnam: A Journey of Sophistication

4. Hanoi - Haiphong Luxury Train

A new luxury train from Hanoi to Hai Phong launches in May, 2025 during the Red Flamboyant Festival, marking the city’s 70th liberation anniversary.

With Indochine-style décor, VIP cabins with sofas, free Wi-Fi, and a bar, it offers a stylish, pleasant flight and a one-of-a-kind experience for passengers.

If you're ready to commence on one of these unforgettable luxury train journeys through Vietnam, we’re here to help you with booking and ensuring every detail of your trip is perfectly tailored to your desires. Explore our choices with: Luxury Vietnam Tours

7. Top Vietnam Scenic Railway Routes

7.1 Hai Phong to Hanoi

• Highlights: Panoramic views of the Red River, picturesque rice fields, Long Bien Bridge.
• Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes.

7.2 Da Nang to Hue

• Highlights: Hai Van Pass, Lang Co Bay, Bach Ma National Park, Hue’s Imperial City.
• Duration: 4 hours.

7.3 Da Lat to Trai Mat

• Highlights: Cherry blossoms in spring, flower fields, Linh Phước Pagoda.
• Duration: Short route.

7.4 Saigon to Binh Thuan

• Highlights: Dragon fruit gardens, Ke Ga Lighthouse, Ta Cu Pagoda, Po Sah Inu Towers.
• Duration: 4 hours.

7.5 Sapa to Fansipan

• Highlights: Lush alpine meadows, Hoang Lien Son mountains, Muong Hoa valley, Fansipan peak.
• Duration: 4 minutes (train), 15 minutes (cable car).

7.6 Da Nang to Dong Hoi

• Highlights: Da Nang Bay, Son Tra peninsula, Tam Giang Lagoon, Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park.
• Duration: 6 hours.

7.7 Da Nang to Quy Nhon

• Highlights: South Central Coast, luxury amenities on The Vietage train, Eo Gio and Hon Kho beaches.
• Duration: 6 hours.

7.8 Saigon to Nha Trang

• Highlights: Nha Trang Bay, beaches, Po Nagar Cham temple.
• Duration: 8 hours.

7.9 Hanoi - 5 gates

Launching in September 2025, this cultural train features five double-decker carriages and two “check-in” cars with themed interiors, large windows, and 40–60 seats each. Passengers enjoy live performances of traditional Vietnamese arts like quan họ, ca trù, chèo, and xẩm while admiring views of Hanoi’s cityscape and countryside.

The train runs three times a day from Hanoi Central Station, combining tradition and modern comfort. Boarding is quick with biometric ID, soon to be even easier through the VNeID app. It’s a journey that brings culture and history to life, giving you a new way to see Hanoi.

Sources: dsvn.vn, momo.vn

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