Travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train is one of the most iconic ways to explore Vietnam. Instead of taking a quick flight and missing the scenic beauty in between, hopping on the Reunification Express gives you a front-row seat to Vietnam’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant local life. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know - from booking tickets to must-stop cities - to make your railway adventure smooth, memorable, and meaningful.

Why Travelling By Train Is A Must In Vietnam

Travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train allows you to embrace the journey, not just the destination. Vietnam’s train rides offer a window into the soul of the country - from lush rice paddies and misty mountains to bustling rural stations. It is indeed an affordable, eco-friendly, and culturally rich mode of transport that lets you travel alongside locals, enjoy the rhythm of the countryside, and experience life at a slower, more reflective pace.

Overview Of Vietnam’s Railway System

The journey of travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train is made possible by the legendary Reunification Express. Originating in the 1880s, the line was completed in 1936 and later symbolized the reunification of North and South Vietnam. 

Route And Distance

Today, this 1,726 km railway connects over 20 cities and towns across the country, which will take around 35 hours to travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train, depending on the train and stops. 

Major Trains And Key Stations

Having 4 major trains, which are SE1, SE3, SE5, and SE7, here are 10 key stations along the Reunification Express route when travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train, covering the main cultural, historical, and coastal destinations:

Hanoi Station: Starting point of the journey, located in the capital city, a hub of history, politics, and culture.

Vinh Station: Gateway to Nghe An Province, birthplace of President Ho Chi Minh, where it is less touristy, but historically significant.

Dong Hoi Station: Access point to Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which is great for travelers interested in nature and caving.

Hue Station: Former imperial capital of Vietnam, where royal citadels, temples, and pagodas are the iconic representation.

Da Nang Station: Modern coastal city near Hoi An and My Khe Beach: a convenient stop for culture, beach relaxation, and nearby ancient towns.

Quy Nhon Station: Quiet beach town with rising popularity among local travelers, which is known for seafood and laid-back atmosphere.

Nha Trang Station: Famous beach city with vibrant nightlife and island tours, which is often chosen as an overnight or scenic rest stop.

Thap Cham Station: Near Phan Rang, home to the Cham ethnic minority and ancient tower ruins.

Phan Thiet Station: Gateway to Mui Ne, known for sand dunes and beach resorts.

Ho Chi Minh City Station: Final destination in the southern metropolis: A bustling city full of contrasts—French colonial buildings, modern skyscrapers, and dynamic street life.

Top Benefits Of Travelling By Train

A Scenic And Immersive Experience 

Travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train offers a scenic and immersive way to experience Vietnam. As the Reunification Express moves southward, passengers are treated to sweeping views of coastlines, rice fields, and mountains - landscapes that shift with each passing region. 

A Budget-friendly Option

The train is also budget-friendly, especially with hard or soft seat options, making it an ideal choice for cost-conscious travelers. For those on overnight trips, sleeper cabins provide a comfortable and restful alternative to flying, with options ranging from six-berth compartments to more private four-berth cabins.

An Authentic Cultural Journey

Beyond the landscapes and savings, the journey is enriched by its authenticity. Onboard, travelers can observe local routines, share space with Vietnamese families, and witness daily life unfold in real time. These unfiltered moments, combined with the slower pace of train travel, create a deeper connection to the country. 

Your Train Journey Unpacked: From Boarding To Stopovers

Tickets And Seat Options

Travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train offers a range of seat types to match different budgets - from basic hard seats to air-conditioned soft sleepers with privacy. The price range and schedule can be varied due to the agencies and train type. 

Food And Beverages  

A meal is not typically included in the ticket price for the Reunification Express. While the train provides a restaurant car and a trolley service with food and drinks, these are usually separate purchases. While travelling by train around Vietnam from north to south, the Reunification Express can provide you with a sit-down dinner experience, with a selection of snacks and beverages. 

Entertainment And Activities On Train

Unlike modern high-speed trains or luxury cruise-style journeys, travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train on the Reunification Express offers very limited onboard entertainment. There are no dedicated lounges, Wi-Fi access is inconsistent or unavailable, and you will not find things like live performances, movies, or structured activities. For most of the 30+ hour journey, passengers are left to their own devices - literally and figuratively.

Station stops, which occur roughly every few hours, are short—usually 5 to 10 minutes. They provide just enough time to stretch your legs or buy a quick snack from a platform vendor, but not enough for true exploration. 

Ride Like A Pro: Insider Advice For Vietnam’s North–South Train

Planning is key when travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train. Here are some essential tips:

Booking Tickets: Reserve seats 2–3 days (or even weeks) in advance through reliable websites or agencies.

Seat Choice: Here is a summary of each option’s comfort, privacy, suitability, and cost:

Meals & Snacks: If you have dietary preferences, packing your own food and beverages would be a wise and economical choice.

Entertainment: Long hours on board can be dull, so remember to bring a book or invest in a local 4G package.

Security: Keep valuables close, don’t flash electronics, and always bring your bags with you when stepping off.

Travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train becomes much more enjoyable with just a bit of preparation.

Not Just Point A To B: Itineraries To Enrich Your Ride

Sitting on a train for 35 hours can be tiring. Instead, split your journey into smaller legs to explore Vietnam’s rich regional diversity.

• Hanoi → Dong Hoi

• Hanoi → Hue

• Hue → Danang

• Danang → Quy Nhon

• Quy Nhon → Nha Trang

• Nha Trang → Phan Thiet

• Phan Thiet → Ho Chi Minh City

By breaking up the trip, travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train becomes an extended adventure - full of culture, food, and hidden gems. For a tailored tour, please contact us directly so that we can design the most desirable trip for you.  

Travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train is not just a means of transportation- it is a cultural experience, a history lesson, and a visual feast. The Reunification Express invites you to slow down, engage with local life, and witness the country’s natural beauty unfold outside your window. Whether you are in search of adventure, authenticity, or just an unforgettable story to tell, this A-Z guide is your ticket to discovering Vietnam the meaningful way - on rails.

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