Vietnam by Train: The Ultimate Guide to Scenic Rail Journeys
Vietnam's trains may not always be the fastest form of transportation, but they offer several advantages.
See More of the Country
Train journeys take you through landscapes that you might miss when flying.
Avoid Airport Hassles
For some routes, traveling from a city-center railway station can be more convenient than getting to and from an airport.
Overnight Travel
Long-distance sleeper trains allow you to travel while sleeping, potentially saving a night of accommodation.
A More Relaxed Experience
You can walk around, look out the window, read, or simply enjoy the changing scenery.
Meet Other Travelers
Longer train journeys can also be a chance to interact with fellow passengers and experience a different side of travel in Vietnam.
1. Hanoi to Ninh Binh: An Easy Introduction to Train Travel
The Hanoi–Ninh Binh route is one of the most convenient train journeys for travelers exploring northern Vietnam.
The journey takes roughly 2–3 hours, depending on the service.
Ninh Binh is famous for its limestone mountains, rivers, caves, temples, and rural scenery.
Once you arrive, you can explore destinations such as:
- Trang An
- Tam Coc
- Hoa Lu
- Mua Cave
- Bich Dong Pagoda
Why take the train?
It's an affordable and relatively straightforward way to travel between Hanoi and Ninh Binh.
Best for: First-time visitors, short trips, and travelers exploring northern Vietnam.
2. Hanoi to Lao Cai: Gateway to Sa Pa
Trains typically travel between Hanoi and Lao Cai, the nearest major railway station to Sa Pa.
The journey is much longer than the trip to Ninh Binh, and many travelers choose an overnight sleeper train.
After arriving in Lao Cai, you need to continue to Sa Pa by road.
Why take the train?
An overnight sleeper allows you to travel while resting instead of spending an entire daytime journey on the road.
Best for: Travelers visiting Sa Pa who enjoy overnight train journeys.
3. Hanoi to Dong Hoi: Gateway to Phong Nha
Traveling south from Hanoi by train can be a convenient way to reach Dong Hoi, the gateway to the Phong Nha area.
Dong Hoi is located in Quang Binh Province, home to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and an extensive cave system.
Depending on the schedule, travelers can choose daytime or overnight services.
From Dong Hoi, you can continue to Phong Nha by road.
Best for:
- Cave exploration
- Nature lovers
- Adventure travelers
- Long-distance train enthusiasts
4. Hanoi to Hue: A Journey Through Central Vietnam
The train from Hanoi to Hue is a much longer journey, but it can be a memorable way to travel south.
Hue is famous for its imperial heritage, historic monuments, temples, and distinctive cuisine.
If you choose a daytime service, you'll be able to see parts of the Vietnamese countryside along the way.
For longer journeys, sleeper cabins can make the trip more comfortable.
Best for: Travelers combining northern and central Vietnam.
5. Hue to Da Nang: One of Vietnam's Most Scenic Train Routes
If you only take one train journey in Central Vietnam, consider the route between Hue and Da Nang.
The railway passes through the Hai Van Pass, with views of mountains, coastline, and the sea.
This journey is much shorter than the Hanoi–Ho Chi Minh City route, making it particularly attractive for travelers who want scenery without spending an entire day on a train.
Depending on the service and weather, the views can be spectacular.
Travel tip
Try to travel during daylight hours so you have a better chance of enjoying the scenery.
Best for: Photography, scenic travel, and first-time visitors to Central Vietnam.
6. Da Nang to Hoi An: What Travelers Should Know
One important detail for travelers is that Hoi An does not have a railway station.
If you're traveling by train, the nearest major station is Da Nang Railway Station.
From Da Nang, you can continue to Hoi An by taxi, private car, shuttle, or other road transportation.
This makes Da Nang a useful railway gateway if you're planning to visit Hoi An.
7. Da Nang to Nha Trang: A Coastal Railway Journey
The train route from Da Nang to Nha Trang continues south along Vietnam's central coast.
The journey takes several hours, but traveling by train allows you to experience sections of the country's coastline and countryside.
Nha Trang is known for its beaches, islands, seafood, and water activities.
For travelers moving gradually through Central Vietnam, this route can be a practical alternative to flying.
8. Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City
The railway continues south from Nha Trang toward Ho Chi Minh City.
This is another useful route for travelers who want to travel overland rather than fly.
The journey takes many hours, so consider a sleeper option if you're traveling overnight.
Once in Ho Chi Minh City, you can explore attractions such as the Central Post Office, Ben Thanh area, museums, markets, and the city's diverse food scene.
Best for: Long-distance travelers exploring Vietnam from Central to Southern Vietnam.
9. Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by Train
The ultimate Vietnamese train journey is the route connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
The railway journey covers more than 1,700 kilometers and takes roughly 30+ hours, depending on the specific train and schedule.
You don't have to travel the entire route in one go.
Many travelers break the journey into several sections, stopping at destinations such as:
Hanoi → Ninh Binh → Hue → Da Nang → Nha Trang → Ho Chi Minh City
This approach allows you to experience multiple regions of Vietnam while avoiding repeated flights.
Is it worth taking the entire journey?
That depends on your travel style.
If you enjoy slow travel and long scenic journeys, it can be a memorable experience.
If you have limited vacation time, flying between major cities may be more practical.
Vietnam Train Classes Explained
Vietnamese trains generally offer several seating and sleeping options.
Hard Seat
The most basic option and usually one of the cheapest.
Suitable for short journeys if budget is your priority.
Soft Seat
A more comfortable option for shorter trips.
Sleeper Berth
Designed for longer journeys and overnight travel.
Depending on the train, sleeper compartments may have different numbers of berths.
Which should foreign travelers choose?
For journeys lasting several hours, a soft seat is generally more comfortable than a hard seat.
For overnight travel, a sleeper berth is usually the better choice.
How to Buy Vietnam Train Tickets
Foreign travelers can purchase train tickets through official railway channels, railway stations, or reputable booking services.
When booking, check:
- Departure station
- Arrival station
- Date
- Departure time
- Seat or berth type
- Passenger information
Make sure your name and identification details are entered correctly when required.
For popular routes and holiday periods, booking ahead is recommended.
How Much Does It Cost to Travel by Train in Vietnam?
Train fares vary depending on:
- Route
- Train
- Seat type
- Sleeper type
- Travel date
- Booking conditions
In general, trains offer options for different budgets, from basic seats to more comfortable sleeper compartments.
Rather than focusing only on the cheapest ticket, consider the length of the journey and level of comfort you'll need.
Best Time to Travel Vietnam by Train
Vietnam's railway network operates throughout the year.
However, weather can influence your experience, particularly on scenic routes.
For example, heavy rain or storms can affect visibility and transportation schedules.
The Hue–Da Nang route is particularly rewarding during daylight because of its mountain and coastal scenery.
For long-distance journeys, overnight trains can be useful if you want to save daytime travel hours.
Tips for Foreign Travelers Taking the Train in Vietnam
Book Early for Sleeper Cabins
Popular overnight services can fill up, especially during weekends and Vietnamese holidays.
Arrive at the Station Early
Give yourself enough time to find the correct platform and carriage.
Keep Your Passport and Valuables Secure
Keep important documents and valuables with you rather than in easily accessible luggage.
Bring Snacks and Water
Long journeys can be more comfortable if you have food and drinks with you.
Pack Light
Managing luggage is easier when you can move it comfortably around the station and carriage.
Bring Entertainment
Long-distance journeys can take many hours, so download music, movies, books, or podcasts before departure if needed.
Check the Weather
Weather can affect some routes and sightseeing plans.
Train vs. Plane in Vietnam: Which Is Better?
Train
Plane
Scenic
Much faster
City-center stations
Airports can be farther from city centers
Sleeper options available
Usually more expensive
Good for slow travel
Better for short holidays
Longer journey
Short flight time
If you have plenty of time, trains can make the journey part of your travel experience.
If your itinerary is only a week or so, flying may make more sense for long distances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is traveling by train in Vietnam safe?
Train travel is a common form of transportation in Vietnam. As with any journey, travelers should keep valuables secure and follow railway instructions.
Is Vietnam train travel comfortable?
Comfort depends on the train and ticket type. Soft seats and sleeper berths are generally more comfortable for longer journeys than basic seating.
Can I take a train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City?
Yes. Vietnam's railway connects Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with multiple stops along the way.
Is the Hue to Da Nang train worth taking?
Yes, particularly for travelers who enjoy scenic journeys. The route passes through the Hai Van Pass and offers views of mountains and coastline.
Do I need to book Vietnam train tickets in advance?
For popular routes, sleeper cabins, weekends, and major holidays, booking in advance is recommended.
Final Thoughts
Traveling Vietnam by train isn't always the fastest way to get around—but it can be one of the most memorable.
From the easy journey between Hanoi and Ninh Binh to the spectacular Hue–Da Nang railway route and the long north-south journey between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, trains allow travelers to see a side of Vietnam that can easily be missed from the air.
If your schedule allows, consider adding at least one train journey to your Vietnam itinerary.
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