Train travel in Vietnam offers a unique way to experience the country, especially when compared to other forms of transportation. While many countries have high-speed trains that whisk passengers between cities in a matter of hours, Vietnam’s rail network is less modern, slower, and more relaxed but offers a scenic journey through the heart of the country. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the vibrant cities of the south, traveling by train in Vietnam lets you savor the change in sights, accents, and culture along the way. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about traveling Vietnam by train: Essential local guide and tips about schedules, fares, tickets... to help you make the most of your journey in Vietnam!

About Train Travel In Vietnam

In Vietnam, you’ll find many ways to travel—planes, boats, cars, motorbikes, bicycles, and, of course, trains. While a plane can whisk you from Hanoi to Saigon in just two hours, there’s something magical about spending 30 hours on a train between these two vibrant cities. Vietnam travel by train isn’t just about reaching your destination; it’s about embracing the slow pace and experiencing something unique.

Vietnam’s railway system has deep roots, thanks to the French colonial era. Before 1858, Vietnam relied on simple means of transport like rickshaws and boats. That changed when the French built the first railway from Saigon to My Tho in 1881. Initially powered by steam locomotives, the route was replaced by diesel engines in 1896, marking the start of modernization. Although the Saigon-My Tho line stopped operating in 1958, much of Vietnam’s 2,600-kilometer railway system still follows the tracks laid by the French.

If rail travel intrigues you, Vietnam’s railway system is ready to welcome you. The trains aren’t luxurious, but they’re comfortable enough. What’s better, their slower pace lets you take in the ever-changing landscapes outside your window. Rarely delayed, except in stormy weather, Vietnamese trains are surprisingly punctual.

One of the most popular routes is the night train from Hanoi to Lao Cai, a gateway to Sapa’s breathtaking mountains. Covering 296 kilometers in about eight hours, the journey is a blend of efficiency and comfort. You sleep in a soft bunk, wake up refreshed, and step off ready to explore. Options like Victoria, Livitrans, Fansipan, and King Express ensure a cozy experience for travelers.

Returning to Hanoi by night train is just as convenient, and from there, your rail adventures can continue. Trains from Hanoi can take you as far as Nanning or Beijing in China. Domestically, you can head south to Hue, Da Nang, or all the way to Saigon. The legendary Hanoi-Saigon line, known as the "Reunification Express," carries a story of history and unity, marking the end of 20 years of war in 1975.

The trains are equipped with air-conditioned compartments, offering options for every budget. A hard seat might be the cheapest, but for comfort, we’d recommend a soft berth. Compartments with four berths cost a little more than those with six, but they’re worth it for a better night’s rest. Onboard, the dining car serves drinks and snacks. It’s nothing fancy, but it gets the job done if you’re not too picky.

For history buffs, the Da Lat railway station in Lam Dong province is a must-visit. Built in 1932 in a blend of French colonial and local mountain styles, it’s the oldest station in Vietnam. A short 7-kilometer ride from Da Lat takes you to Trai Mat village and the striking Linh Phuoc Pagoda, also known as the "ceramic pagoda."

Railway Stations In Vietnam

Vietnam's railway system stretches from the northern capital of Hanoi to the southern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, with numerous stations along the way. These stations not only serve as transit points but also reflect the history and culture of their respective regions. Here’s a list of key railway stations, starting from the North and heading South:

Hanoi Railway Station: The largest and busiest station in the North, it serves as the starting point for most long-distance trains.

Gia Lam Station: A secondary station in Hanoi, often used for international routes to China.

Dong Dang Station: A border station near China, connecting Vietnam to the Chinese railway network.

Hai Phong Station: A terminal for the route to Hai Phong city, a gateway to Halong Bay.

Nam Dinh Station: A stop in the Red River Delta region, known for its historical and cultural significance.

Ninh Binh Station: Popular among travelers heading to Tam Coc and Trang An, renowned for their stunning limestone karsts.

Thanh Hoa Station: A central station in northern Vietnam, serving Thanh Hoa province.

Vinh Station: A major station in Nghe An province, the birthplace of Ho Chi Minh.

Dong Hoi Station: The gateway to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and the world-famous caves.

Dong Ha Station: Located in Quang Tri province, a region rich in war history.

Hue Station: Serving the former imperial city of Hue, known for its ancient architecture and royal tombs.

Da Nang Station: A hub for central Vietnam, close to Hoi An, My Son, and the stunning Hai Van Pass.

Tam Ky Station: A smaller station serving Quang Nam province.

Quang Ngai Station: A stop in central Vietnam, near the My Lai Memorial Site.

Quy Nhon Station: Located in Binh Dinh province, this station connects to beautiful coastal areas.

Tuy Hoa Station: Serving Phu Yen province, known for its unspoiled beaches.

Nha Trang Station: A popular stop for beach lovers visiting the coastal city of Nha Trang.

Thap Cham Station: A connecting point to Da Lat via the historic cog railway.

Phan Thiet Station: A gateway to the resort town of Mui Ne.

Bien Hoa Station: A major station near Ho Chi Minh City in Dong Nai province.

Saigon Railway Station: The southernmost station, located in Ho Chi Minh City, and the final stop of the Reunification Express.

Train Timetable In Vietnam

Vietnam's railway network offers a variety of routes connecting major cities and tourist destinations. Below are some key routes with their respective train services, departure, and arrival times.

Hanoi

Hanoi to Hue

• SE1: Departs Hanoi at 22:00, arrives in Hue at 10:45 the following day.
• SE3: Departs Hanoi at 19:20, arrives in Hue at 08:26 the following day.
• SE5: Departs Hanoi at 15:30, arrives in Hue at 05:30 the following day.
• SE7: Departs Hanoi at 06:10, arrives in Hue at 20:11.

The SE1 train is the fastest service on this route, taking approximately 13 hours and 4 minutes

Hanoi to Da Nang

• SE1: Departs Hanoi at 20:55, arrives in Da Nang at 13:23 the following day.
• SE3: Departs Hanoi at 19:20, arrives in Da Nang at 11:08 the following day.
• SE5: Departs Hanoi at 15:30, arrives in Da Nang at 08:27 the following day.
• SE7: Departs Hanoi at 06:10, arrives in Da Nang at 22:52.

The journey from Hanoi to Da Nang covers approximately 791 km. 

Hanoi to Lao Cai

• SP1: Departs Hanoi at 21:10, arrives in Lao Cai at 05:35 the following day.
• SP3: Departs Hanoi at 21:50, arrives in Lao Cai at 06:15 the following day.
• SP7: Departs Hanoi at 20:35, arrives in Lao Cai at 04:55 the following day.

The journey from Hanoi to Da Nang covers approximately 286 km.

Hanoi to Ninh Binh

• SE7: Departs Hanoi at 15:30, arrives in Ninh Binh at 17:48.
• SE5: Departs Hanoi at 06:00, arrives in Ninh Binh at 08:19.
• SE3: Departs Hanoi at 19:20, arrives in Ninh Binh at 21:31.

Hue

Hue to Da Nang

This scenic journey traverses the Hai Van Pass, offering breathtaking coastal views.

• SE5: Departs Hue at 05:39, arrives in Da Nang at 08:30.
• HD1: Departs Hue at 07:35, arrives in Da Nang at 10:30.
• SE3: Departs Hue at 08:45, arrives in Da Nang at 11:14.
• SE19: Departs Hue at 09:20, arrives in Da Nang at 11:58.
• SE1: Departs Hue at 10:04, arrives in Da Nang at 12:32.
• HD3: Departs Hue at 14:25, arrives in Da Nang at 18:00.
• SE7: Departs Hue at 20:38, arrives in Da Nang at 23:07.

Hue to Ninh Binh

• SE20: Departs Hue at 21:30, arrives in Ninh Binh at 09:20 the following day.
• SE2: Departs Hue at 15:31, arrives in Ninh Binh at 01:38 the following day.
• SE4: Departs Hue at 14:52, arrives in Ninh Binh at 00:55 the following day.

The SE20 is a convenient overnight option, allowing travelers to rest and arrive in Ninh Binh in the morning.

Hue to Hanoi

• Hanoi, the capital city, is a major cultural and historical center.
• SE2: Departs Hue at 15:31, arrives in Hanoi at 04:50 the following day.
• SE4: Departs Hue at 14:52, arrives in Hanoi at 04:20 the following day.
• SE20: Departs Hue at 21:30, arrives in Hanoi at 09:20 the following day.

Overnight trains like the SE2 and SE4 offer soft sleeper cabins for a comfortable journey. 

Hue to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

• SE1: Departs Hue at 10:04, arrives in Ho Chi Minh City at 04:38 the following day.
• SE3: Departs Hue at 08:45, arrives in Ho Chi Minh City at 05:00 the following day.
• SE5: Departs Hue at 05:39, arrives in Ho Chi Minh City at 21:55.

Da Nang

Da Nang to Hanoi

Several trains operate daily between Da Nang and Hanoi:

• SE2: Departs Da Nang at 13:55, arrives in Hanoi at 06:00 the following day. 
• SE4: Departs Da Nang at 12:57, arrives in Hanoi at 05:40 the following day. 
• SE6: Departs Da Nang at 10:30, arrives in Hanoi at 04:35 the following day. 

Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

• SE1: Departs Da Nang at 12:47, arrives in Ho Chi Minh City at 06:50 the following day. 
• SE5: Departs Da Nang at 08:51, arrives in Ho Chi Minh City at 05:18 the following day. 

Da Nang to Nha Trang

• SE1: Departs Da Nang at 12:47, arrives in Nha Trang at 23:37. 
• SE3: Departs Da Nang at 11:29, arrives in Nha Trang at 21:34. 

Da Nang to Hue

• SE2: Departs Da Nang at 14:13, arrives in Hue at 16:13. 
• SE4: Departs Da Nang at 12:45, arrives in Hue at 14:45. 

The Voyage: Da Nang to Quy Nhon

For a luxurious experience, The Vietage offers an upscale journey between Da Nang and Quy Nhon. The Vietage provides a premium experience with gourmet dining, free-flow beverages, and spa treatments during the six-hour journey.

• Southbound (Da Nang to Quy Nhon): Departs Da Nang at 08:00, arrives at Dieu Tri Station (Quy Nhon) at 14:03. 
• Northbound (Quy Nhon to Da Nang): Departs Dieu Tri Station at 18:41, arrives in Da Nang at 00:36 the following day.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang to Hanoi

• SE2: Departs Nha Trang at 19:45, arrives in Hanoi at 05:30 the following day.
• SE4: Departs Nha Trang at 18:30, arrives in Hanoi at 04:50 the following day.
• SE6: Departs Nha Trang at 16:20, arrives in Hanoi at 08:50 the following day.

Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

• SE3: Departs Nha Trang at 21:39, arrives in Ho Chi Minh City at 05:45 the next day.
• SE7: Departs Nha Trang at 09:45, arrives in Ho Chi Minh City at 18:10. 
• SNT1: Departs Nha Trang at 20:05, arrives in Ho Chi Minh City at 05:00 the next day. 

Nha Trang to Quy Nhon

• SE8: Departs Nha Trang at 07:05, arrives at Dieu Tri Station (serving Quy Nhon) at 11:59.
• SE22: Departs Nha Trang at 13:24, arrives at Dieu Tri Station at 18:00.

The Vietage: Nha Trang to Quy Nhon

For a luxurious experience, The Vietage offers an upscale journey between Nha Trang and Quy Nhon. The Vietage provides a premium experience with gourmet dining, free-flow beverages, and spa treatments during the journey.

• Southbound (Nha Trang to Quy Nhon): Departs Nha Trang at 13:59, arrives at Quy Nhon at 18:29. 
• Northbound (Quy Nhon to Nha Trang): Departs Quy Nhon at 14:03, arrives in Nha Trang at 18:36.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to Phan Thiet (Mui Ne)

SPT2: Departs Ho Chi Minh City at 06:30, arrives in Phan Thiet at 10:40.

Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang

• SE2: Departs Ho Chi Minh City at 20:35, arrives in Da Nang at 13:40 the following day.
• SE4: Departs Ho Chi Minh City at 19:00, arrives in Da Nang at 12:42 the following day.
• SE6: Departs Ho Chi Minh City at 15:00, arrives in Da Nang at 10:10 the following day.
• SE8: Departs Ho Chi Minh City at 06:00, arrives in Da Nang at 00:36 the following day.

The SE2 train is the fastest on this route, with a journey time of approximately 17 hours and 5 minutes. 

Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang

• SE6: Departs Ho Chi Minh City at 15:00, arrives in Nha Trang at 22:44.
• SE8: Departs Ho Chi Minh City at 06:00, arrives in Nha Trang at 13:26.

This route offers scenic coastal views, making it a favorite among travelers.

Note: Please note that train schedules are subject to change. It's recommended to verify the latest timings and availability through official railway websites or authorized ticket agents before planning your journey.

Train Ticket Fare

To assist you in planning your journey, here's an overview of train ticket fares for some of the routes previously mentioned, along with information on where to purchase tickets. Please note that fares are approximate and can vary based on the class of service, train type, and booking platform. It's advisable to check the latest prices before making a reservation.

Hanoi to Hue: SE19 Soft Sleeper: Approximately $70. 

Hanoi to Da Nang: SE19 Soft Sleeper: Approximately $70. 

Hanoi to Lao Cai: SP1 Soft Sleeper: From $21.

Hanoi to Ninh Binh: SE7 Soft Seat: Approximately $12.

Hue to Da Nang: SE1 Soft Seat: Approximately $12. 

Da Nang to Nha Trang: SE3 Soft Sleeper: Approximately $5. 

Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City: SE7 Soft Seat: Approximately $30.

Nha Trang to Quy Nhon (The Vietage): Approximately $400, including gourmet dining and spa treatments.

Where To Buy Vietnam railway tickets?

Purchasing train tickets in Vietnam is straightforward, with several options available:

Online Booking

Official Vietnam Railways Website: Visit dsvn.vn to book tickets directly. Note that the website may have limited English support and may not accept international credit cards.

Third-Party Booking Platforms: Websites like Baolau and 12Go Asia offer user-friendly interfaces, accept international payment methods, and provide e-tickets. 

At the Train Station

Tickets can be purchased in person at railway stations across Vietnam. While this method allows for immediate ticket issuance, be aware that popular routes may sell out, especially during peak travel seasons. Additionally, station staff may have limited English proficiency.

Local Travel Agencies

Numerous travel agencies throughout Vietnam can assist with train bookings. They can provide valuable assistance, especially if language barriers are a concern.

Vietnam Travel By Train – FAQs

Can you travel through Vietnam by train?

Yes, you can travel through most of Vietnam by train. The country has a well-established railway network that connects major cities and tourist destinations, including Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Some of the most popular routes include the Reunification Express from Hanoi to Saigon, as well as trips to places like Lao Cai, Ninh Binh, and Quy Nhon. Train travel is a great way to experience the landscape and culture of Vietnam at a relaxed pace.

What train companies are in Vietnam?

The main train company in Vietnam is Vietnam Railways (Đường Sắt Việt Nam), which operates the national railway system. Other private operators, such as Vietage, also offer luxury train services on select routes. Vietnam Railways manages most of the train services, including overnight and daytime trains, and is the primary provider for long-distance travel. Private train operators usually offer a more luxurious experience, with higher-quality services and amenities.

What are trains like in Vietnam?

Trains in Vietnam range from basic to comfortable, depending on the route and class of service. The trains are generally not as luxurious as those in some other countries, but they are adequate for travel. Most trains offer different classes of service:

• Hard seat: Basic seating, not the most comfortable.
• Soft seat: More comfortable, air-conditioned seating.
• Hard sleeper: Sleeper cars with basic bunks, usually in open compartments.
• Soft sleeper: More comfortable sleeping arrangements with air-conditioned cabins, often in 4-berth or 6-berth compartments.

The trains are generally clean and operate on time, though delays can occur during bad weather. The trains have dining cars or snack vendors selling simple meals and drinks, but the quality can vary.

What is the most beautiful train journey in Vietnam?

One of the most beautiful train journeys in Vietnam is the route between Da Nang and Hue, which runs along the Vietnamese coastline. This stretch offers breathtaking views of the sea, lush greenery, and dramatic mountain scenery. Another popular scenic route is the journey from Hanoi to Lao Cai, which passes through the mountainous regions of northern Vietnam, offering spectacular landscapes of terraced rice fields, valleys, and small villages. For luxury travelers, the Vietage Train offers a scenic and gourmet experience between Nha Trang and Quy Nhon, featuring stunning coastal views.

Sleeper train or bus in Vietnam?

Choosing between a sleeper train and a bus in Vietnam depends on your preferences and travel needs. A sleeper train offers more comfort for overnight journeys, as you can relax and sleep in air-conditioned cabins, avoiding the discomfort of sitting upright for hours. Trains also tend to be more stable, providing a smoother ride compared to buses.

On the other hand, a bus is typically cheaper and may offer more flexible routes, as buses can reach areas that trains cannot. However, buses can be less comfortable for long distances, especially on overnight trips.

For longer journeys or when you need to sleep, a sleeper train is generally the better option. 

Conclusion

Vietnam travel by train is not just about getting from one place to another; it’s about immersing yourself in the journey. Whether you’re enjoying the stunning coastal views on the Da Nang to Hue route or relaxing in the comfort of a sleeper train, every train ride is an opportunity to experience the heart of Vietnam. With its scenic landscapes and unique charm, train travel is one of the best ways to explore the country at a leisurely pace. If you’re ready to embark on your own train adventure, we invite you to book a tour with our agency—Vietnam Original Travel. Let us help you plan an unforgettable trip that combines the beauty of Vietnam with the comfort and convenience of train travel!

Itinerary from North to South:

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