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Vietnam is vast and the train is the best way to see as much of it as possible (while enjoying comfort and great view, too)

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Vietnam Coracle

Train Travel in Vietnam: A Guide

First published July 2023 |  Words and photos by Vietnam Coracle

Tom Divers is the founder and creator of Vietnam Coracle. He’s lived, travelled and worked in Vietnam since 2005. Born in London, he travelled from an early age, visiting over 40 countries (he first visited Vietnam in 1999). Now, whenever he has the opportunity to make a trip, he rarely looks beyond Vietnam’s borders and his trusty motorbike, Stavros . Read more about Tom on the About Page , Vietnam Times and ASE Podcast .

Train journeys in Vietnam are more than just a means of getting from A to B: they are an experience. On Vietnam’s railways, travellers get a genuine sense of the country and start to appreciate nation-defining characteristics, such as changes in the landscape, climate, food and accent from one region to another. Unlike taking a domestic flight, train travel is richly rewarding, providing travellers with a social, culinary and cultural experience. Taking the train in Vietnam is nothing like it is in Europe, North America, Japan or China: rail travel in Vietnam is low-tech, slow, informal, and exciting. What’s more, train travel is relatively cheap, comfortable, efficient and easy to book. If you enjoy journeys and the act of travel, you’ll almost certainly enjoy travelling by train in Vietnam.

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TRAIN TRAVEL IN VIETNAM

A Guide to Riding the Railways

This guide is intended to provide travellers with a practical overview of how to travel by train in Vietnam and why it’s a rewarding travel experience. I’ve included information about train routes, booking tickets, classes of travel, food and much more in order to paint a picture of what train travel is like in Vietnam. On my map I’ve marked all rail routes and major stations, as well as some of the most scenic sections of track. You can book train tickets directly from this page using the Baolau.com search boxes and links. (For excellent historical information about Vietnam’s railways, read ‘Railways & Tramways of Việt Nam’ by Tim Doling.)

Routes & Schedules

Booking Tickets

Seating & Sleeping

Food & Drink

The Journey

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Please Support Vietnam Coracle Make a donation or become a patron if you enjoy this website. Vietnam Coracle is totally free & independent. I do not receive payment for anything I write. Thank you, Tom

[ Back to Contents ]

Train Routes & Stations in Vietnam

ROUTES & SCHEDULES :

Vietnam Railways operates a main south-north line and several spur lines. There are dozens of potential routes and station stops across the nation: use my train map for an overview. Schedules, times and ticket prices are easy to search, browse and book using the Baolau.com search box below, or vnr.com (the Vietnam Railways website), or at any major train station where the national train schedule is displayed on large billboards.

Reunification Express ( Transindochinois ):

Vietnam’s main railway line runs from Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) in the south all the way to Hanoi in the north, stopping at over 20 stations along the way. Roughly following the coast for over 1,700km, the south-north line connects almost all major coastal cities between Saigon and Hanoi ( see map ). This line is known today as the ‘Reunification Express’, and in French colonial times it was called the Transindochinois . There are at least 6 trains every day in both directions on the ‘Reunification Express’ between Saigon and Hanoi. The journey between the two cities takes more than 32 hours. In addition, several other trains ply specific sections of the south-north main line, stopping at smaller stations as well as major ones. You can easily check schedules, times and ticket prices by using the Baolau.com search box below or vnr.com or at any major train station.

Spur Lines:

In addition to the main south-north ‘Reunification Express’ route, several spur lines branch off to other destinations. These include: Hanoi→Hải Phòng , Hanoi→Lào Cai , Hanoi→Lạng Sơn , Hanoi→Hạ Long, Hanoi→Thái Nguyên, and Saigon→Phan Thiết . However, schedules on these spur line routes are irregular and subject to change, particularly in the post-pandemic period. Check schedules, times and ticket prices using the Baolau.com search box below or vnr.com or ask at the relevant train stations.

* Always book train tickets at least a few days in advance or more if travelling during public holidays or on weekends

SEARCH TRAIN ROUTES & SCHEDULES :

BOOKING TICKETS :

Booking train tickets is now very easy and efficient. You can book tickets directly from this page on almost all train routes in Vietnam by using the Baolau.com search box below. Type in your departure and arrival stations and the date of travel and click ‘Search’. This opens a new page with all train times and prices in all classes for that day and that route. Choose your train time and class then click ‘Book Now’. Next, choose your exact carriage, seat or sleeping birth on the train map, enter your details and make payment online. You’ll receive an e-ticket with a QR code in your email inbox which you can show to station staff on your phone before boarding the train. Your ticket has a carriage number and seat/bed number on it.

Alternatively, you can book tickets in-person at any train station, but not much English is spoken, or you can use vnr.com (the Vietnam Railways website) to make a booking, but their site is not as good or as easy to use as Baolau.com . (Note that there’s a small service charge with Baolau.com , but this is a very small price to pay for the convenience of using their system.)

BOOK TRAIN TICKETS :

SEATING & SLEEPING :

There are 4 ‘classes’ of seating and sleeping on Vietnam’s railways (see below for descriptions and photos of each one). Which class you choose depends on the length of the journey you’re taking and on your budget. Most trains on most routes (even shorter spur routes, such as Saigon→Phan Thiết and Hanoi→Lào Cai ) offer both seating and sleeping compartments. As a general rule, seating is fine for daytime journeys under 8 hours, but sleeping compartments are better for night trains or any journey over 8 hours. The 4 classes are:

• Hard Seat (fan)
• Soft Seat (air-con)
• 6-Bed Sleeper (air-con)
• 4-Bed Sleeper (air-con)

SEARCH TRAIN TICKETS :

[ Back to Classes ]

Hard Seat :

Typically the last couple of carriages on a train, the hard seat class is the cheapest and sparsest available on Vietnam’s railways. The wooden seats are absolutely fine for shorter journeys, such as Hanoi→Hải Phòng or Hanoi→Lạng Sơn . But on longer trips the carriages, which are fan-cooled, not air-conditioned, can become stuffy and uncomfortable. However, the ambience is informal and social: families with kids playing in the aisles, picnics on the floors, and chickens in cardboard boxes. On short hops this can be a good experience; on long-hauls it can be a test of endurance.

Soft Seat :

Soft, coach-style seating on reclinable chairs in an air-conditioned carriage, the soft seat class is ideal for daytime journeys of a few hours or more. Comfortable, cool, bright and spacious, most passengers will be fine in one of the soft seats for any medium-length journey. The windows are large, the ceilings are high and the air-con is effective. Ticket prices are reasonable and more affordable than sleeping compartments, but if you’re travelling overnight, don’t expect to get too much sleep in a soft seat. For daytime journeys on routes such as Huế→Đà Nẵng, Saigon→Nha Trang, Quy Nhơn→Đà Nẵng, soft seat class is all you need.

6-Bed Sleeper :

Separate air-conditioned compartments of 6-beds connected by a common aisle, this class allows passengers to lie down in comfort, but it can feel a little cramped if all 6 beds are occupied. The beds are arranged in two rows of bunks. Try to avoid taking the top bunk bed, which has very little space between the bed and the ceiling and can be mildly claustrophobic on long journeys. On night journeys, the middle bunk is best for sleeping, but on day journeys, the bottom bunk is best for comfort, because you can sit-up or lie-down and see out of the window. In my opinion, 6-bed sleeper class is good for shorter overnight journeys, such as Hanoi→Lào Cai or Saigon→Nha Trang. There is also good potential for social interaction as you are sharing quite an intimate space with 5 other passengers. Clean linen, a blanket and a pillow are provided.

4-Bed Sleeper :

The most comfortable class on Vietnam’s trains, these sleeper compartments have 4 beds in a private cabin arranged in two rows of bunks. The beds are comfy, the air-con is powerful (bring a sweater), there’s plenty of space on the top and bottom bunks, and it’s a cozy place to be for a long rail journey. Clean linen, blankets and pillows are provided, there’s a power outlet and USB charger for electrical devices, and each bed has its own reading light. Although the bottom bunk is slightly more expensive, if your main concern is sleeping, you should opt for the top bunk . This is because when your head is on the pillow on the bottom bunk you can hear and feel every bump on the tracks. My advice is: on a long night train, book the top bunk and enjoy a decent night’s sleep; for long journeys during the day, the bottom bunk is better for looking out the window, sitting at the table and working on your laptop. For long-haul rail journeys in Vietnam, such as Saigon→Đà Nẵng, Hanoi→Huế, or Saigon→Hanoi, the 4-bed sleeper class is by far the most comfortable and romantic.

FOOD & DRINK :

Eating and drinking on Vietnamese trains is nothing like it is on European or North American railways. Vietnam’s dining culture is sophisticated, regionally diverse, highly social, affordable, and oftentimes very informal. This is as much the case on the railways as it is in normal, everyday life. Most trains have a dining car (usually towards the back on the train), food and drink trolleys which regularly ply the aisles in all classes, and a hot water dispenser at the end of every carriage. In addition, passengers are allowed (and the majority do) to bring their own home-cooked picnic food onboard for the journey. If that weren’t enough, vendors board trains at stations, walking up and down carriages shouting their wares – hot, local specialities – for a brief few minutes before the train departs. Finally, all stations have at least one coffee shop, a convenience store and food outlet.

As is the case in most culinary contexts in Vietnam, travellers with an adventurous palate, few dietary quibbles, and an open mind will get the most out of their dining experience on Vietnamese trains. Leave your preconceived ideas of dining etiquette, cleanliness and ‘morality’ at home.

There are several ways to eat and order food on trains. If you bring your own picnic , you may consume it at your seat or sleeping birth, but not in the dining car. The dining cars (some of which are fairly grimy) only seat about a dozen passengers and they can become quite rowdy and cramped at mealtimes. However, there’s something undeniably romantic about railway dining cars. Sit down and order a drink (coffee, soda, beer), a snack (hard boiled eggs with salt and pepper, fresh green, sour mango) or a meal (hot phở or hủ tiếu noodles or steamed rice with stir-fried vegetables, meat, fish and soup) and watch the landscape roll by.

Alternatively, wait for the meal trolleys to reach your seat or sleeping compartment. Fresh rice meals ( cơm ) are served from a large ‘hot trolley’, including a huge vat of piping hot steamed rice and half a dozen dishes to choose from. These are all on display, so passengers can easily point and order. Typically you’ll find the following dishes: stewed pork ( thịt kho ), marinated pork cutlet ( sườn ), pork rolled in aromatic betel leaves ( chả lá lốt ), fried fish ( cá chiên ), and fried spring rolls ( nem rán ). Prices are 50,000-100,000vnd ($2-$4) per meal. Although there aren’t really any vegetarian or vegan options, you can try saying Tôi ăn chay (I’m vegetarian). All the food is freshly cooked, unlike the factory-prepared, vacuumed-packed items sold on UK trains, for example.

In addition, regional specialities are loaded onto the train at different stops along its route and then sold to passengers. This is a remarkable, unique, endearing and very Vietnamese aspect of railway dining. Some examples are: steamed whole corn on the cob at Long Khánh station from the fields outside your window; wonderfully exotic dragon fruit at Bình Thuận station from the plantations you can see from the train; bánh nậm (delicate steamed rice cakes) at Huế station; and nem chua (delicious cured pork sausages) at Thanh Hóa station.

THE TRAINS :

Trains on the main south-north line between Saigon and Hanoi are large and long, usually 10-15 carriages in length with capacity for several hundreds of passengers. Trains on spur line routes are generally shorter, sometimes only 3-4 carriages in length, depending on the route. The trains are pulled along the rails by enormous diesel locomotives resembling the ones you might see in an old Soviet propaganda poster. I don’t know enough about trains to name or date the carriages and engines, but I suspect they’re not particularly modern; many are probably reused carriages from old Chinese and Russian trains, but that’s only a guess.

The carriages, painted white, blue and red on the exterior, are wide, high and spacious and the level of cleanliness is acceptable, if not exceptional. Most of the carriages are functional and coach-like, but sometimes they can be cozy and very comfortable. Some of the dining cars are romantic-looking wooden compartments, like something from the U.S. Pacific Railroad in the 1870s, but others are bleak and utilitarian in appearance. The dining car tends to become the train’s ‘pub’ on long journeys: loud, drunk men, cigarette smoke and a boisterous atmosphere.

Toilets vary considerably from carriage to carriage, regardless of what class you’re in, so it’s worth walking up and down the train to find the ones in best condition. There are both ‘sit-down’ toilets and ‘squat’ toilets. Wash basins are located at the end of each carriage and are fine for washing hands and brushing teeth.

Staff range from young twenty-somethings to old, weathered-looking ‘lifers’, who’ve been working on the rails for 40 years. The railway is state-run and I would guess wages aren’t high, nor is it a glamourous job. It shouldn’t be a surprise, therefore, that some staff, particularly older ones, can be rather brusque with foreign passengers. However, smiling and patience go a long way in Vietnam and I’ve met some remarkably kind, gracious and helpful staff on Vietnam’s trains. The general level of ‘customer service’ is informal, polite and well-meaning.

BOOK YOUR TRAIN JOURNEY :

THE JOURNEY :

Departing from train stations in Vietnam is always exciting, but particularly on early morning departures or night trains. There’s an atmosphere on the platform: the sound of the locomotive humming as if steeling itself for the long journey ahead; the flow of people through the station entrance and into the carriages; the sense of expectation; the hoot of the horn before departure; and the slow, grinding shift of motion echoing from carriage to carriage as the train crawls out of the station. Moving through the city at processional speed everything stops to let the train by, watch it go, honour it as it passes: traffic on the city’s busy arteries comes to a standstill at level crossings, pedestrians look up from their meals, stop their work, look out of windows trying to catch a glimpse of the train as it parades by.

Unlike highways, the railway passes through rural areas without anything between the track and the landscape. On the south-north main line in particular, because of Vietnam’s unique geography with the coastal plains to the east and the Trường Sơn Mountains to the west, the scenery is often sublime. There are moments when the track echoes the coast and the train comes within metres of the ocean; at other times, the railway detours inland through bright rice paddies with purple mountains looming behind. On long train journeys in Vietnam you get a real sense of the size, scale and topography of the nation. The train travels at just 50-80kmph – an ‘understandable’ speed – which allows you to study the landscapes in detail. Whether lying in your sleeping birth gazing out the window at an ocean vista, sitting at a wooden table in the dining car with a coffee as a monsoon shower passes over the train, or reclining in your seat staring at a waterway winding into the mountains, there’s some sensational scenery to be seen on Vietnam’s railways.

Train travel in Vietnam can be a social experience, even if travelling alone. Sharing a sleeping cabin for many hours with several strangers is an inherently intimate situation which lends itself to social interaction with your fellow passengers. I’ve met people on Vietnam’s trains many times. One of the endearing qualities of Vietnamese life is the informality of social situations. The train is no different. Children play in the aisles, teenagers huddle on top bunks with their phones, business people tap away at their laptops, extended families of eight people bundle into 4-bed compartments for a picnic lunch of grilled chicken and sticky rice, while older men stand in the narrow gap between carriages puffing on cigarettes. The charm and social cohesion you often see and experience with Vietnamese street life also takes place on Vietnam’s railways.

Taking the train in Vietnam is much more than a means of transportation: it’s an experience, and one which, for travellers, can begin to illuminate aspects of Vietnamese life and culture. From the landscapes outside the window you get an impression of the terrain and geography of Vietnam; from the passengers that come and go from your cabin you get a sense of different regional accents; from the local speciality food sold on the train at different sections of the route you get an idea of the culinary diversity of Vietnamese cuisine; from the weather – the sun that bakes the carriages, the rain that lashes the train – you begin to understand Vietnam’s complex climate from southern to central to northern regions; and you even get a sense of history from the French colonial-era stations, the Cham temples at Tam Kỳ and Diêu Trì, and the multitude of pagodas and churches you see along the way. All this is in addition to the universal magic of travelling by train, such as lying down in your bunk bed and being rocked to sleep by the rhythmic rattle of the rails and occasional howling of the horn in the night.

BOOK A TRAIN JOURNEY IN VIETNAM :

* Disclosure: I never receive payment for anything I write: my content is always free and independent. I’ve written this guide because I want to: I like train travel in Vietnam and I want my readers to know about it. For more details, see my Disclosure & Disclaimer statements and my About Page

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Questions, updates and trip reports are all welcome. However, please keep comments polite and on-topic. See commenting etiquette for details.

Im looking to train journey in vietnam.is it possible to get a train journey sllowing me to stop at a town enroute for a few days n continue my journey???thank you

Hi Raymond,

Just buy your train tickets separately for each leg of your journey. For example, buy a ticket from Ho Chi Minh to Danang, then buy your ticket from Danang to Hue, etc.

Hi tom.. many thanks for taking time to reply to me much appreciated. Ray,

Been waiting several weeks for the Baolau prices to load for the dates I want to travel–still says “not yet open”– but they have been up the whole time on the Vietnam Railways website. Also curious, the times and fares differ fairly dramatically from Baolau to VR for the exact same dates and routes. In an email response from Baolau, they said that the times and fares can be different and to check schedules carefully before travelling. I would like to use Baolau based on your hearty recommendation AND the fares appear (who knows why!) to be about 3x cheaper, but I am wary because of the discrepancies. May be best to just book directly through the carrier and not try to get a deal…?

Hi Jennifer,

I’ve never had any problem booking with Baolau before. It is generally more user-friendly than the Vietnam Railways website, especially for travellers without prior experience of Vietnam.

What time period are you trying to book for? If it is a public holiday, then that might be the reason for the discrepancies in fares.

April 13 us quite close to the King Hung holiday, which is April 18 in 2024, so that might be a reason why there’s conflicting information on trains and prices, however that seems unlikely.

Hi, we are an older well travelled couple, I do all the planning and organizing and am thinking of grabbing our backpacks, flying into Vietnam and just hitting the road (tracks)? We both travel light, this sounds like a fun holiday for us. What do others think?

Sounds like a good idea to me!

Thank you for this well written and detailed article. My husband and I are planning our first trip to Viet Nam. As we always try to build trips around train travel, you’ve provided the foundation for our trip.

Thank you! I hope you and your husband enjoy your trip.

There are also a couple of 2 sleeper cabins on SE2 between HCM and Hanoi.

Oh great. I’ve seen the 2 bed sleeper cabins a couple of times, but didn’t know it’s specifically the SE2 train that has them.

Wonderful, well written article – informative, but also conveying so much emotion about the experience

Thank you, Greg! Glad you enjoyed it.

Really nice piece Tom – makes me determined to return to the rails after far too much flying in Vietnam. The train’s are always a memorable experience ! May I recommend that Hanoi – Nanning route which I’ve used several times now if only for the border pantomime !

Thanks, David.

I’ve always wanted to try the rail journey across the border into China, but haven’t done it yet, although I have been to the last stop in Vietnam, at Dong Dang – great station!

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Day 3 : Days 4-5 - Hue

As the sun rises over the glorious panorama this morning, you could try Tai Chi on deck. After breakfast we visit one of the bay's typical limestone grottos, before we sail back to shore. From here we transfer back to Hanoi, stopping en-route at Dong Trieu Pottery Village. This evening, we visit a Water Puppet Theatre, where we are treated to a performance of this traditional Vietnamese art form. Tonight we join the overnight sleeper service to Hue, in twoberth compartments.

On Day 5 our early arrival in Hue gives us a full day to explore. We embark on a cruise on the famous 'Perfume River' to the magnificent seven-storied Thien Mu Pagoda. We continue to the immense Imperial Citadel, whose impressive six miles of walls contain the Imperial and the Purple Forbidden City.

Day 6 - To Hoi An

Today we travel south by train from Hue to Danang, on one of the most beautiful stretches of line in Vietnam. We wend our way through the thick, verdant landscape, emerging onto a dramatic coastline, where the steep mountains tumble down to the pristine beaches fringing the South China Sea. We leave the train in Danang and transfer by coach to Hoi An.

Day 7 - Hoi An

The charming riverside town of Hoi An is famed for its beautiful old buildings and its history as a merchant trading post. This morning we discover the old town on a walking tour, during which we see the 400-year old Japanese covered bridge, Tan Ky merchant house, and the vibrant local market. After lunch in a local restaurant, we make our way to the Xu Dang Trong Art Centre where you will try your hand at lantern making. The rest of your afternoon is at leisure to explore the lively streets and the myriad of tradesmen offering made to measure clothing and custom made shoes, or perhaps just absorb the relaxed atmosphere and unwind in the beautiful surroundings of our hotel.

Day 6 : Days 8-9 - To Nha Trang

Leaving Hoi An, we transfer by coach to Danang for the train to the vibrant coastal resort of Nha Trang, passing rice paddies and mighty oxen working the countryside. We check in to our hotel, located on the beachfront, for a one night stay. On  Day 9  we transfer by train to Saigon, on arrival we make our way to the Grand Hotel where we will stay for the next 2 nights.

Day 7 : Days 10 - The Cu Chi Tunnels

We travel to the Cu Chi tunnels, and visit the vast underground complex utilised by the Viet Cong during the war against the US. At its height, this system stretched for almost 250 km towards the Cambodian border, and contained field hospitals, weapons factories, kitchens, and living quarters. Our visit gives a real insight to life during this period. After lunch, we make our way back to Saigon enjoying a tour of the city en-route to the hotel before spending the evening at leisure.

Day 8 : Days 11-12 - The Mekong Delta

We travel west by coach to the Mekong Delta, a wonder of nature where the enormous Mekong River splits into branches on its way to the South China Sea. We travel by boat to get a glimpse of the communities which make their living here, and stop at the floating market of Cai Be, before crossing a lower branch of the Mekong River. Later we reach Can Tho, and stay here for two nights on the Mekong's banks.  Day 12 you have the full day at leisure to explore Can Tho.

Day 9 : Days 13-14 - Into Cambodia And Phnom Penh

This morning we visit Cai Rang, one of the world's largest floating markets. After time to explore, we transfer to Cao Lanh for our onwards boat journey through the Mekong Delta, and into Cambodia. We arrive in Phnom Penh, the country's exciting capital, known as the 'Pearl of Asia', situated at the meeting point for three great rivers - the Mekong, the Tonle Sap and the Bassac.

On Day 14 , we explore Phnom Penh. Despite its chequered recent history, Phnom Penh is a wonderful place, home to a number of ornate golden temples. Today's full-day sightseeing tour introduces us to some of the city's main sights. We see the Silver Pagoda, the grand Royal Palace, the National Museum and Central Market. We later visit the moving Tuol Sleng - a museum dedicated to the history of the Khmer Rouge regime.

Day 10 : Days 15-16 - Siem Reap, Angkor Wat And Angkor Thom

We journey by road to Siem Reap today, pausing en-route at Sa Dec, a peaceful city made up of rustic colonial houses and tree-lined avenues, where Marguerite Duras set his semi-autobiographical novel, 'The Lovers.' On Day 16 we visit the world-famous Angkor Wat temple, a source of true national pride and the world's largest religious structure. During our time here we visit Ta Prohm, a temple within the complex. We continue by tuk-tuk to the abandoned city of Angkor Thom.

Day 11 : Days 17-18 - Homeward Bound

We enjoy a final visit to some of Cambodia's most beautiful temples today ahead of lunch at a local restaurant. After, we transfer to the airport for our flight back to London. Travelling via Hanoi, we arrive on Day 18 .

Day 12 : Please Note

Please note that while every departure of this tour will feature the same excursions, the order may differ from that shown above.

What's Included

All rail and coach travel

UK Tour Manager from start to finish

1 night aboard a luxury junk in Halong Bay

Accommodation

• Victoria Can Tho Resort, Can Tho
• Melia Hanoi Hotel, Hanoi
• Grand Hotel Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
• Royal Hoi An Mgallery, Hoi An
• Best Western Premier Indochine Palace, Hue
• Novotel, Nha Trang
• Angkor Miracle Resort & Spa, Siem Reap

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• Travel to Vietnam
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Travel by train Vietnam: complete guide and itineraries

The scenic route from Hanoi to Danang a second-to-none experience

If your travel experiences are limited to buses and planes, you’re missing out on one of the best ways to see the world: the train. Not only increasingly attractive to the pocketbook, a scenic train ride can even be a holiday in itself. If you’re planning a trip to Indochina, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about travel by train Vietnam and help answer all your questions.

If you want an inexpensive yet exciting trip to travel along Vietnam from the North to the South, train could be a perfect choice. Many parts of the railways system in Vietnam go along or even through mountains, forests, valleys, plain and sea, so you would certainly have chance to contemplate the incredibly magnificent and fascinating scenery.

1. Focus on Vietnam railways

The Vietnamese railway system was introduced to Vietnam during the period of French rule and is a true colonial legacy. The construction of the North-South Railway began in 1899 and took more than 30 years to complete. On 2 October 1936, the entire 1726 km Hanoi – Saigon line was officially opened. 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.

The reconstruction of the ruined network quickly became a priority after the reunification of the country in 1975. The heavily damaged and war-torn North-South line was restored and put back into service in 1976. It was renamed the “Reunification Express” as a symbol of Vietnamese unity.

Map of Vietnam’s trains

The Reunification Express line is operated by Vietnam Railways (VNR), a Vietnamese state-owned 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 here the map of trains in Vietnam:

2. Why choose travel by train in Vietnam?

Before travelling by train in Vietnam, it is important to note that the Vietnamese railways are not as modern and developed as those in your country. With a speed of 50-60km/h, it can take up to 30+ hours to travel from Hanoi to Saigon.

Some lines are even nicknamed “Vietnam’s high-speed train”, the humorous tone of which is understood to mean “High Vibration Train”. This is a result of the metric tracks, i.e. the narrow gauge tracks with a gauge of 1m kept since the colonial period, which are now becoming outdated. But then, is the Vietnam train really worth trying? What are its assets that make its reputation so picturesque?

In the modern world, speed is often more appreciated, but this is not always the case in travel. Sometimes the best way to get the most out of a travel experience is to…slow down a bit. Sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery through the carriage window. This way, the journey becomes a relaxing time rather than a stressful journey from home to destination.

The splendour of the journey lies in its incredible scenery. Numerous railways run through mountains, forests and valleys that offer incredibly breathtaking and charming views. The train even travels on paths where other means of transport cannot. This gives you an up-close and personal view of hidden parts of Vietnam that are only accessible to you. Moreover, its slow speed allows you to enjoy the spectacular view outside while taking pictures or videos to remember the unforgettable moments you spent during your Vietnam train trip.

Therefore, this is the reason why the train is still a popular and much sought-after option for many travellers, although the inter-provincial bus system and especially the domestic flights have been greatly improved in recent years. On the other hand, affordability is another reason to choose the railway for travel. Compared to the price of flights, train tickets are much cheaper, costing about half or a third of the price of a plane ticket, depending on the route.

And finally, high safety is also an advantage of this means of transport. The railway system in Vietnam has recently been rebuilt and developed significantly to adapt to the new innovations in the railway industry in the world. Thus, safety conditions are much better than before. In addition, the train in Vietnam is not a high-speed means of transport and there is only one train running on a railway, so the accident rate for the train is minuscule.

3. The most beautiful train journeys in Vietnam

3.1 hanoi sapa night train.

Sapa is a mountain resort in Lao Cai province established by the French in 1922. The line from Hanoi to Lao Cai was built by the French and opened in 1910 as part of the Vietnam-Kunming metric railway. The beautiful scenery and colourful local tribes of the misty town of Sapa make it a popular stop on many visitors’ itineraries. If you want to save one night on accommodation, one of the best ways to get there is to take the Hanoi Sapa night train. There are 2 sleeper trains between Hanoi and Sapa each day.

Please 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 up to 40 passengers with luxury cabins, bar and restaurant.

3.2 Hanoi – Hue Train

The imperial city of Hue is an attractive destination in Vietnam to discover its historical and cultural heritages, pristine beaches, beautiful landscapes and unique cuisine. The Hanoi Hue train can take about 14 hours and costs between $36 and $80. Each day, there are 5 trains serving this route including night or day trains of Vietnam Railways and luxury tourist train companies such as Livitrans (SE3 and SE4), Laman (SE19), Lotus (SE19 and SE20) and Violette (SE1 and SE3). The latter companies usually offer the Hanoi Hue night train with premium services.

Hanoi – Hue SE1 SE3 SE5 SE7 SE19 Depart Hanoi10:20 p.m.7:30 p.m.09:006:00 am8:10 p.m.Arrival in Hue10:5208:3010:42 p.m.7:47 p.m.09:30

3.3 Saigon Nha Trang train

Known as one of the best seaside resorts in Vietnam, the coastal town of Nha Trang is undoubtedly an essential stopover when visiting the central region. It can be reached from Saigon by an 8-9 hour train ride. 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 and $40.

Saigon–Nha Trang SE2 SE4 SE6 SE8 SE22 SNT2 Departure from Saigon9:55 p.m.7:45 p.m.09:006:00 am11:50 a.m.8:30 p.m.Arrival in Nha Trang04:4703:144:21 p.m.1:18 p.m.7:46 p.m.05:30

3.4 Trains like no other

Rack train in dalat.

It is known that the romantic city of Dalat is home to the most beautiful railway station in Vietnam with the Art Deco style in its architectural structure and its striking resemblance to the railway station in Deauville. But few people know that it once had one of the rarest rack railways in the world. This is a track system with a third central rail with teeth between the running rails. This rail engages with a serrated wheel under the locomotive, providing traction for the very steep gradients between Dalat and Thap Cham (in Ninh Thuan province) while preventing the train from sliding too fast on the way down.

This 84 km long railway was one of the rarest railways in the world, as there were only two of its kind at the time, one in Dalat and the other in Switzerland: the Jungfraujoch railway. The steam locomotives used were manufactured in Switzerland and were among the most modern in the world.

See more: Train street in Hanoi: complete guide by locals

Luxury train “Indochina” Danang – Quy Nhon

Welcoming passengers from July 1, 2020, the new train line The Vietage connecting Danang Station and Dieu Tri (Quy Nhon) Station is remarkable for its interior design, which is reminiscent of the background of old Indochinese films. The cabin is decorated with wooden floors, combined with traditional yellow rattan seats.

The Vietage train leaves Danang station every morning for a 6-hour journey to Quy Nhon and returns to Danang every evening. Designed for maximum passenger comfort and privacy, in addition to 12 seats, Vietage also offers a range of services such as restaurants, bars and relaxing massages.

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

There are four main categories of Vietnam train tickets:

Hard seat: mainly used for day trips, this is the cheapest and least comfortable type of ticket.

Soft seat: mainly used for day trips, these seats are more comfortable and more expensive than hard seats

Hard sleeper: used for the Vietnam night train, it has three levels of beds (six per compartment). Prices vary according to the level of the berth (those closest to the top are the cheapest). These compartments do not have a door.

Soft sleeper: used on the Vietnam night train, it has two levels of beds (four per compartment). All bunk beds are charged at the same rate.

Some private companies such as Victoria Express, Orient Express, Livitrans, Violette, Laman and many others rent compartments from Vietnam Railways and then upgrade them, provide services and resell tickets to tourists. These companies offer private sleeping cars with high quality berths for tourists. They also provide private compartments with 2 soft beds. The Vietnam sleeper train has air-conditioning, clean beds, free mineral water and (in some cases) snacks and clean western-style toilets.

5. How to book your train ticket?

If you want to buy a train ticket online, go to the official Vietnam Railways website: dsvn.vn . In the search results, select a train, select a carriage with the desired class and click to buy. You may have to fill in a Vietnamese mobile phone number with a country code. And it certainly won’t accept your non-Vietnamese credit card.

If this sounds too complex, it is easy to buy Vietnam train tickets directly at the station when you arrive in Vietnam. However, trains are always busy, especially during rush hour, holidays such as Tet, and holidays. It is therefore recommended to book your ticket a few days in advance.

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

Tips for travel by train Vietnam

Below is the list of things you should remember when traveling by train in Vietnam.

• Print out your e-tickets
• Don’t forget your ID or passport
• Arrive at the station 60 minutes before departure time
• Bring a maximum of 20 kg
• Take care of your belongings
• Pack food and drinks in advance (optional)

What to pack?

• A suitcase with a digital lock. Also, if possible, choose a waterproof bag if you travel during the rainy season in Vietnam .
• Wear comfortable outfit
• Small towel
• Food and drink. The food served on the train is not very diverse, and the price is quite high, so bring some snacks and water with you.
• Toilet paper
• Necessary documents: Passport / Identification card

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

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Take both but bear in mind you can't use Dong in Cambodia but you can use Dollars.

The ATM machines in Cambodia dispense Dollars.

I would appreciate if you could help me with what is construed as acceptable dress code in Vietnam and Cambodia.

Is there any problems in wearing sleeveless tops for women?

My wife wore short sleeve tops, cropped trousers and shorts a lot but if you go into the temples you will need to cover up. I wore shorts all the time

But it still happens sadly.

The places visited on the tour are relaxed and accepting regarding dress code. I would recommend a long scarf if you feel you want to cover your shoulders.

If you are still unsure, feel free to get in touch with us.

We have booked this holiday for November 2017. I have just read your blog; it was full of interesting details, the sort I like to know beforehand but don't know who to ask. I will make sure that we carry plenty of water and have tummy bug medication in our first aid kit! The holiday sounds really exciting, just the sort of thing we enjoy. Thank you for taking the time to write and post the comments.

Thank you, and I hope you enjoy your holiday.

Feel free to contact us if you have any further questions in the meantime.

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VIETNAM RAIL ADVENTURE

15 days/14 nights

Max group 12

Lifetime Deposit

15 DAY ADVENTURE from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

Come travel on the transport and freight ‘lifeblood’ of Vietnam – along the segments of the Reunification Express that will leave you both in awe and inspired. Travel along cliff-top sea view tracks, into tunnels framed with jungle, down iconic ‘Train Street’ and through magazine-famous mountain passes.

You’ll experience both Vietnam’s best, and its secret-best! Have heartfelt moments with locals, eat your way through incredible food, browse the produce at colourful markets, explore a melting pot of architectural styles and stay in gorgeous and boutique accommodation.

Vietnam’s trains are a slow traveller’s piece-de-resistance, so sit back and enjoy the ride in the company of no more than 12 in your grou p. All those people flying across the country have no clue what they’re missing!

November 2024

Starts: Hanoi, November 1, 2024

Finishes: – Ho Chi Minh, November 16, 2024

Price – $8,866 AUD (per person twin share)

Single supplement: $2,076 AUD

Doing our November trip?!

Your 16-Day itinerary is HERE.

February 2025

Start: 7 February 2025

Finish: 21 February 2025

Price: $9,365 AUD per person (twin share)

Private Supplement: $2,359 AUD per person

Start: 21 February 2025

Finish: 7 March 2025

Trip Breakdown

Trip length.

15 days, 14 nights

According to departure date

• $1,900 AUD deposit, per person
• 2-week cooling-off period applies
• Lifetime deposit. If you need to cancel, your deposit is transferable to other trips
• Twin Share: we’ll match you with a roomie if you’re travelling solo.
• Private supplement available (see above) Tip Kitty: $210 AUD

Please refer to our payment terms in the FAQs.

Meeting point

GM Premium Hotel, Hanoi

Ending point

Hotel Des Arts, Ho Chi Minh City

Maximum 12 people.

• Meals : 14 breakfasts, 1 Brunch, 7 lunches and 8 dinners
• List transport: 5 x trains, 1 x Overnight Cruise, 4x full day private air-conditioned transportation and all private transportation transfers listed.
• 12 nights boutique and premium accommodation, 1 night cruise, 1 night overnight train
• 1 top-rated tour leader throughout and specialist guides along the way.
• All listed activities and more!
• International flights
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Any visas required
• Late check-out at hotels
• Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
• Drinks with included lunches and dinners
• Tip kitty (See FAQs for more information)
• Personal expenditure

Have a group?

Contact us and we can arrange a private departure.

Trip Highlights

Ride the Hanoi train through Train Street

Luxury Overnight Cruise in secluded Lan Ha Bay

Foodie Tour in Hue aboard a pedal powered rickshaw

The Vietage Luxury Carriage trip

Evening cultural show at the Saigon Opera House

Explore the Mekong Delta

What our Vietnam MagRailers say

• Trip Details

Train Journeys Included

Day 2: Train ride via famous Train Street

Day 5 : Overnight train to Dong Hoi

Day 6 : Train to Hue, Evening Foodie & Cyclo Tour

Day 8: Train to Hoi An

Day 10: The Vietage Luxury Train Carriage to Quy Nhon

Accommodation Preview

All Accommodation on this trip is 4 and 5 stars. Here are some examples:

GM PREMIUM HOTEL - (2 NIGHTS)

ALLEGRO HOI AN RESORT - (2 NIGHTS )

Anantara Quy Nhon Villas - (2 NIGHTS)

Trip Summary

2025 itinerary.

Day 1: HANOI

Welcome to Vietnam! Your VIP treatment starts right away. One of our team will meet you as you exit the plane and guide you through the immigration process. They’ll even help you retrieve your luggage – when does that ever happen? Once you’re through immigration, they’ll deliver you safely into the hands of your guide, who will whisk you directly to the hotel.

Tonight, get to know the group over dinner for the first catch up – at one of our favourite local restaurants, of course!

ACCOMMODATION: GM Premium  Hotel – Deluxe room (or similar) INCLUDED: Dinner

Day 2: THE OLD QUARTER

Early mornings in Hanoi are all about makeshift market stalls and boisterous coffee houses. So, let’s skip the hotel breakfast and fill up on crusty baguettes stuffed with fresh ingredients, as you explore Hanoi like a local with your guide. Here’s a tip! Try the local (Vietnamese recipe) iced coffee, or the egg coffee if you dare – these are unique to Vietnam.

Hanoi’s Old Quarter has been around for more than 1000 years, and while you wander along its cobblestone lanes today, you’ll catch the heady scent of incense wafting from ancestral temples, and come to understand how the city’s many cultural incarnations contribute to its eclectic charm. Wrap up the day over a relaxing drink in a neighbourhood Bia Hoi or Beerhall.

ACCOMMODATION: GM Premium  Hotel – Deluxe room (or similar) INCLUDED: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3: LAN HA BAY

Cruising on Halong Bay is on plenty of travellers’ bucket lists. But have you heard of Lan Ha Bay? It’s remote compared to its celebrity neighbour, has scenery that is just as jaw-dropping, and best of all, none of the tourist hordes!

You’ll transfer by road after breakfast and set sail by lunchtime on The Heritage Cruise. Join in with the deserted-beach and water-cave excursions, make use of the onboard kayaks, or just relax on your cabin’s private balcony, cocktail in hand, watching the sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin.

ACCOMMODATION: Heritage Cruise – Ocean Cabin (or similar) INCLUDED: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: LAN HA BAY AND SLEEPER TRAIN

Early risers can join the Vovinam (Vietnam’s martial arts) class on the sundeck. Then jump aboard a traditional rowboat to go into the Light and Dark Cave. You’ll glide through the cave’s opening which is framed by fig trees and orchids, and into its silent darkness, only to be bathed in light once more when you pop out the other side and into the hidden lagoon.

After Brunch, it’s time to say your goodbyes to the Heritage crew and reunite with your guide and driver for the last road transfer of the trip. This afternoon you’re back in Hanoi with just enough time to stretch your legs and maybe pick up that last minute Hanoian souvenir.

Day 4.5: OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO DONG

After a local restaurant dinner with your fellow MagRailers , it’s All Aboard your first ride on Vietnam’s Reunification Express: Hanoi to Phong Nha. Yep – your first long-haul train ride is a sleeper! They’re 4 berthed shared compartments with toilets at the end of the carriage. But if you fancy a little privacy, private berths can be arranged!

INCLUDED: Brunch and Dinner

Day 5: PHONG NHA

The train should pull into Dong Hoi Station around 6am and your room will already be prepared for you at the Lake House. Take a rest, and breakfast at your leisure, before regrouping later to visit Phong Nha Cave. As the riverboat chugs along the Son River, you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped back in time. This prehistoric-like landscape is backdrop-perfection to riverside villages barely changed in centuries. And the sound of children playing on the riverbank will joyfully echo in your memory long after you’re back at home.

The entrance to the cave is literally a hole at the base of a towering limestone cliff and your boat will glide right on through. The underground river system stretches for kilometres, but your boat will moor, so you can tread the boardwalk to be closer to the ancient stalactite and rock formations.

Then, back to the Lake House – be sure to use some of your leisure time later today relaxing on your private lakeside balcony.

ACCOMMODATION: Phong Nha Lake House, Bungalow with lake view, or similar INCLUDED: Breakfast

Today’s train to Hue is a three-hour ride on a local train. These trains aren’t known for their punctuality, and there’s nothing further planned today except check-in and, of course, dinner – so why not say hi to some local fellow travellers and sit back and enjoy the ride.

Did somebody mention dinner?

Vietnamese food is to Hue, like Pizza is to Naples – it’s the traditional home of much of Vietnam’s deliciousness. So tonight, we’ve planned our favourite food tour of all! What an enjoyable rush as your cyclo-driver skilfully manoeuvres his rickshaw along tiny alleyways to the best street-food venues in town! Your tastebuds will do a merry dance trying treats like Hue’s crispy savoury pancakes and for your sweet tooth, the sweet soups are surprisingly delicious. 

ACCOMMODATION: Eldora Hotel, Deluxe City View Room, or similar

INCLUDED: Breakfast box and Dinner Food Tour

Come out today to see Hue through the eyes of a local. Your neighbourhood guide will share childhood stories about life during the war and intimate family history as you’re led down side-streets abuzz with local life. Then travel by boat to a riverside village whose families have created bronze pieces since the 1500s.

Enjoy your leisure time tonight – your hotel is well situated to wander out and explore the nearby neighbourhoods and local restaurants. It may be that you decide to track  down one of your favourite food spots from last night’s feasting for one more serve of your favourite dish!  

INCLUDED: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8: HOI AN

The train leaves for Da Nang at 9am. The trip should only take a round 2.5 hours, but gazing out the window as the train crawls along Hai Van Pass – coastline drama to your left, mountains to your right – you’ll be hoping that time slows. Not surprisingly, this part of the journey features regularly in those ‘10 best’ travel lists we all read. Train trip finished, Hoi An is a 45-minute road transfer from Da Nang Station.

Hoi An. Yes, it’s a tourist hotspot. It’s also a must-see, so we’ve made sure your experience is not a generic one. But first, you need to see what everyone else comes for, and on this afternoon’s walking tour of the old town, you’ll discover why its UNESCO Heritage status is well deserved.

ACCOMMODATION: Allegro Hoi An resort, Junior Suite room (or similar) INCLUDED: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 9: HOI AN

By now your love for Vietnamese food will be an obsession and today you can nurture that along even more! The group will head out on bicycles to follow a food trail – from farm to plate. (Again, it’s an easy ride, but you’re welcome to travel by car.) You’ll meet friendly market stallholders selling local ingredients and farmers who grow them just nearby. At the end, you’ll connect with your chef, learn about cooking, and get to share the spoils over lunch. No previous cooking experience required!

The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Spend it in your splendid accommodation or wander through the old town. It’s user friendly – there’s even an Irish Pub if you’re feeling like a change of scene!

ACCOMMODATION: Allegro Hoi An resort, Junior Suite room (or similar) INCLUDED: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10: THE VIETAGE LUXURY CARRIAGE TO QUY NHON

There’s an early checkout and breakfast is served in a box, but that’s of no consequence today, because for the rest of the day, you’ll be travelling in luxury. The Vietage carriage departs with the southbound Reunification Express from Da Nang at 8am, and your group will have it all to yourselves – a fitting finale to your train rides!

Once onboard, you’re welcome to sit at the bar – for a specialty coffee, of course! Or settle into your window seat and watch central Vietnam amble by, outside. Keep an eye out for the ruins of the Hindu Champa Kingdom from the 4th century. There’s lunch onboard too, but not just any old lunch. Today it’s first-class all the way!

Today’s journey ends at the oh-so-swish Vietage partner hotel in the resort town of Quy Nhon. Dinner’s arranged at the hotel tonight – that’s if you can drag yourself away from your ocean view villa and its private pool!!

ACCOMMODATION: Anantara Quy Nhon resort, Oceanview Pool Villa INCLUDED: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 11: QUY NHON

Fancy a lie-in today? Be our guest! In the afternoon the group will meet up for a tour around the district. Ancient buildings like the one you spotted from the train yesterday are scattered around the landscape and they’re known as Cham Towers. Built at least 1,000 years ago, some are still visited for worshipping today.

Wrap up the day with dinner at a local restaurant. The seafood is so fresh here!

ACCOMMODATION: Anantara Quy Nhon resort, Oceanview Pool Villa INCLUDED: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 12: HO CHI MINH CITY (SAIGON)

You’re out the door after breakfast to catch your flight to Ho Chi Min City. Why fly this leg, I hear you ask? (How dare we avoid the train!) Well, the reason turns out to be simple: there’s just not a lot to see along the way. And it would be a non-stop,  arduous, 13-or-more-hour stint on a train that’s at the untidy end of a very long journey.

After the laidback countryside, you’ll instantly feel the big-city energy of Ho Chi Min. It’s the business heart that drives the nation, but it has its traditional neighbourhoods too, if you know where to look. Check into your hotel and head out to explore with your guide. Stops include The War Museum and Saigon Railway Station. We’d like to say we’ve arranged a ride on Ho Chi Min City’s brand-new subway line, but completion dates have been set and reset since 2018, so let’s just wait and see. Tonight, you’re off to a unique cultural performance at the Saigon Opera House!

ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Des Arts , Deluxe room (or similar) INCLUDED: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 13: CU CHI TUNNELS

We’ve all heard about the tunnels built by Vietnamese guerrillas during Vietnam’s wars for Independence and Reunification, but to see them first-hand will take your appreciation for their ingenuity to a different level – especially when you see the smokeless kitchen, designed by an army chef back in 1951. Spending a little time underground in the tunnels will give you more insight into wartime survival in Vietnam.

After lunch, the group will head back to Ho Chi Min and the rest of the afternoon is for your choosing. Why not watch the sunset over the city, cocktail in hand, on the terrace of a nearby rooftop bar. Turtle Park is just a short stroll from the hotel too, which livens up each night when locals flock to the pop-up street-food stalls.

ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Des Arts , Deluxe room (or similar) INCLUDED: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 14: THE MEKONG DELTA

The saddest part of today is when you wake up and realise that you have just one full day remaining. But that one day will be lived to the fullest!

The tentacles of the Mekong’s River Delta reach all the way to the city and you’ll travel along one into the heart of the Delta today. Your boat chugs along while daily life in the south unfolds before you – like a movie with an artistically-perfected film set. As your boat draws into the bank along the way, and later when you travel by bicycle or rickshaw, you too will find yourself in that movie scene – meeting with workers and farmers who openly share with you about their lives. The adventure then finishes by row boat along a palm-lined canal – a most quintessential jungle experience to reach your lunch spot!

There’s enough time this afternoon for packing your case and preparing for dinner. And what a farewell dinner it will be, as you reminisce with your new-found friends and raise cheers to each other and your Vietnam adventure!

Day 15: FAREWELL FRIENDS

Swap numbers and emails at breakfast, for it’s time to farewell friends. Your airport transfer is included, and your driver will pick you up 3 hours before your flight departure. Hotel checkout is at noon.

INCLUDED: Breakfast

Frequently Asked Questions

Prior to the payment of your full balance, the final price may change  if there is significant variation in the AUD:USD exchange rate. Our trip pricing is determined by what the exchange rates are at the time of publishing the trip.

The pricing on these trips is based on the following exchange rates:

23 February 2024 departure: 1 AUD:0.66 USD

1 November 2024 departure: 1 AUD:0.66 USD

A deposit of $1,900 is required to hold your spot. Payment can be made by credit card (fees apply) or bank deposit.

There is a cooling-off period of 2 weeks. (Applicable to all bookings made 110 days in advance.)

We have implemented a ‘lifetime deposit’ guarantee. Deposits are not refundable, but they are transferable at any time, right up until the first day of the trip.

The final balance of the trip is required 95 days in advance of the departure date. Our suppliers require upfront payment well in advance to guarantee availability.

Australians and New Zealanders require a tourist e-Visa to enter Vietnam, which will cost $25 to $50 USD. When the time comes to apply, we’ll assist with all the info you need.

Your trip has been designed by Mat & Lisa, the two cultural adventure experts behind Magnificent Rail.

Magnificent Rail is brought to you by the same team who built Patch Adventures, a boutique women-only adventure company.

Lisa is a travel guidebook author and photographer. Mat’s first rail journey was an epic adventure through Europe at the age of 13 (accompanied by parents of course.) He has since organised highly successful tours to far-flung destinations around the world. Between them, they have put together this well-balanced adventure for you.

The preparation of this trip has taken months and months of work.

Your trip will be led by local experts that have been selected by our team for their knowledge and experience.

Most of our trips have a tip kitty because many cultures have interesting and diverse rules when it comes to tips. We’ve found it to be the easiest way to combat over-tipping, under-tipping or having the tip fall into the wrong hands. Our goal is for guests to relax and know that the complexities of tipping are taken care of, on their behalf.

For your Vietnam adventure, we ask your contribution be: 3,250,000 VND (equivalent to $210 AUD) to your guide on Day 1. The kitty will be managed by your guide and distributed along the way at restaurants for included meals, hotel staff, drivers, train station porterage and services.

What is not covered is a customary tip at the end of the trip for your guide. If they’ve ensured that your trip is memorable, we recommend the following guidelines:

1,800,000 VND to 2,500,000 VND per person at the end of the trip ($120 – $160 AUD equivalent).

(Exchange Rate used – $1AUD : 15,562 Vietnamese Dong)

Overnight train On the overnight train, you’ll be allocated a soft sleeper bunk. Each compartment has 4 berths: 2 lower and 2 upper bunks. The compartments are airconditioned and open off a side corridor. They can be securely locked from the inside. You’ll be supplied with a pillow, sheet and duvet. You may keep all your bags with you, and the luggage space is beneath the bottom bunks. Shared toilets (including a sit-down style toilet) are located at the end of each carriage. There is an option to secure a private 4-berth compartment available at $112 AUD per berth.

Day train Stations have ‘train hosts’ who take responsibility for the luggage on your arrival at the station and stow the luggage onboard a luggage carriage when the train arrives. There is space for carry-on luggage above and below the seats in the carriage. It’s not a dissimilar situation to luggage when you’re travelling by plane.

So long as you have a general level of health and fitness, you’ll be fine. There’s no specific exercise planned for this trip, but there will be days when you’ll be walking and spending a lot of time on your feet. Daily activities may include city walks or a short bicycle tour on flat terrain and getting on and off various forms of transport.

All activities are optional, meaning that if you don’t feel like it, you can skip it, but it will be impossible to enjoy your trip if you’re not able to do a walking tour for a full afternoon. Unfortunately, this tour cannot accommodate people requiring walking aids.

Will we be picked up at the airport? Yes! One of our friendly team will be waiting for you in the public arrivals area of the airport. You’ll transfer directly to the hotel. The transfer is free and in a private and air-conditioned vehicle, which you will only share if there is anyone else on your flight joining the tour.

When should we arrive? Try to arrive before midday on the start day, although earlier would be recommendable. If possible, come one day early to settle in. We can organise additional hotel nights for you at cost.

Being tour operators (not travel agents), we are not licensed to sell flights. We recommend contacting your trusted local travel agent to book flights, if you’re in need of assistance.

10kg hand luggage and 23kg checked luggage.

Vietnamese cuisine is a combination of the bitter, sour, spicy, sweet, and salty flavours merged  into delicious broth and sauces, while rice comes in different shapes and textures.

Many Vietnamese dishes have been influenced by China. It is also possible to see the legacies left by French colonisation, such as baguette bread and coffee.

YES! We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets no problems, or any variation of the above. Just let us know in advance. Note: this food is often very simple and may get repetitive.

Whether you are a couple, or a couple of friends, or travelling solo, our Magnificent Rail journeys will appeal to anyone who is inspired by the charm of scenic rail travel and wants to see the best of a country.

Our adventures are designed to appeal to those in their 50s, and 60s and early 70s (but of course, everyone is welcome!) Our clients are curious and active, and want to find the magic of travel again, but with some modern comforts in unique and interesting places along the way. They’ve often avoided tours in the past because they’re not attracted to being herded around in large groups.

They prefer insider perspectives and lingering longer in the right places for a deeper experience.

Send us an email at [email protected] or give us a call at +61 482 095 648 ; A deposit is required to reserve your spot.

Have more questions? Check out our FAQ page!

Other magnificent rail adventures…, scotland rail adventure, northern india.

Train travel in Vietnam

Vietnam has a very extensive and good rail network from Ho Chi Minh City (South) to Lao Cai, the station for visiting Sapa in the north of Vietnam. Traveling by train through Vietnam is a lot easier than taking the bus. Although it can be slower than by bus, you have much more space and it is safer. The tracks and trains are a bit outdated, but it’s a great way to explore Vietnam. Especially the night trains, with air conditioning and beds, are a better alternative than the long bus routes.

On this page you will learn the following about traveling by train in Vietnam:

Why travel by train through Vietnam

The trains and classes.

• Buy a train ticket in Vietnam

Train times

Train stations in vietnam, the most popular train routes in vietnam.

Traveling by train in Vietnam is really an unforgettable local experience. The biggest advantage of this means of transport is the reasonable price and safety. The fare is half a flight and only slightly more expensive than the bus. The slow train goes through mountains, forests, valleys and even along the ocean, allowing you to enjoy the authentic natural view of Vietnam. Moreover, it is an interesting way to travel by train for a few hours to make friends with the locals and get a better picture of their daily lives.

The railways of the Vietnam Railways run along the coast and connect Hanoi with Ho Chi Minh City and Hai Phong with train connections to the Chinese border. The government is modernizing the network and the trains themselves. Trains with SE are often new and faster trains. Trains that are referred to as TN are the obsolete trains. Moreover, it is an interesting way to travel by train for a few hours to make friends with the locals and get a better picture of their daily lives.

The options

You can usually choose from a hard seat or a soft seat and a hard sleeper or a soft sleeper . And then with or without air conditioning . The hard seats are the cheapest class and are often full of locals.

You can take your luggage into the wagon and put it in racks above your head or under the seat. Some travelers secure their luggage to the rack with a bicycle lock. It is even possible to take your motorcycle on the train.

Like many countries, Vietnam also has the option of using night trains, which saves an overnight stay in a hotel and a day’s travel and is often a better alternative than a long bus trip. The fastest route from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City is approximately thirty hours. The train runs fairly slowly; often around 50 km / h through the landscape.

Buying a train ticket in Vietnam

Train tickets are generally more expensive than the bus, but cheaper than a domestic flight. The price of tickets depends on your train and which class you book. Hard seats is the cheapest and least comfortable option. Soft sleeper is suitable for long distances at night, but also more expensive (recommended!). For a ride from Hanoi to Hue you pay around 500,000 Dong, which is around $ 22. Often, the earlier you book the tickets, the cheaper the price.

Because the trains in Vietnam always have a limited amount of soft sleepers, it is wise to book train tickets as early as possible. Train tickets are usually available from 60 days before departure (sometimes 90 days in advance).

Where to book a train ticket

Tickets are available at stations and travel agencies, hotels and online via the Vietnam Railways website , Bao Lau and 12go.asia .

Several Reunification Express trains depart daily from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Train times change regularly, so check the departure times on the Vietnam Railways website.

Vietnamese trains are not always on time. There is often a delay, sometimes a few hours. Do not plan your connecting flight without a significant pause between the arrival of the train and your next departure. The weather can also cause train delays. Conditions are changing rapidly and they do not announce delays or cancellations in advance.

The most popular train stations in Vietnam are:

Train stations in North Vietnam

• Lao Cai (near Sapa)

Train stations in Central Vietnam

• Dong Hoi (near Phong Nha)
• Dieu Tri (near Quy Nhon)

Train stations in South Vietnam

• Ho Chi Minh City

From Hue to Da Nang

The most beautiful train route is from Da Nang to Hue along the famous Hai Van Pass. On one side you have a beautiful view of the ocean and on the other side the mountain pass. A good alternative if you prefer not to drive the motorcycle over the pass.

From Hanoi to Sapa (Lao Cai)

In the past it was even the only way to get to Sapa from Hanoi, but now you have a good road and great bus connections. It is now still the most popular train connection for tourists in Vietnam. You arrive at the train station of Lao Cai, where you drive the last 40km to Sapa by taxi, bus or minibus.

From Nha Trang to Quy Nhon

Not a popular train route, but a very beautiful one is from Nha Trang to Quy Nhon. This train route rises almost the entire journey along the ocean.

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

This 4-hour train journey takes you past beautiful rice fields to Phan Thiet. From the station it is a short 20km to Mui Ne.

Trains are much safer than buses. Trains also don’t run fast, so you don’t have to worry about accidents. Minor crime is rare on Vietnamese trains. Thieves occasionally try to get things through the window when the train is stopped. Always keep your bag close by and attach or tie it to something, especially at night.

• Book a ticket in advance to choose the best seat!
• Bring some food for a late evening meal or snack in between if you are afraid of food quality on the train.
• A towel can be used as a blanket and keeps you warm during the long journey.
• If you sleep on a hard or soft chair, bring a neck pillow.
• Do not bring too much luggage; you cannot sleep well while you watch over your belongings all the time.
• Take small change to pay for the taxi from the station and for food on the train.
• If there are problems with your seat or the food, do not hesitate to report it to the conductor.
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No, never used them, but I have to comment that there are only "very average rail journeys" in Indochina since the infrastructure is so poor.

Vietnamese trains aren't the classiest and, while everyone raves about the Danang - Huế section (which is nice enough), none of it is really world class.

If the itinerary includes Saigon to Siem Reap (for Angkor), you'll probably need to bring your own track (and train) for that section

If a rail journey is what you're after, I'd be picking somewhere else.

"There are no trains at all in Cambodia"

Well, none apart from the 'Bamboo Train' near Battambang, which offers a very short but unique rail experience. It's not on Great Rail Journey's itinerary though.

Hi Winnie 1962, we are flying out with them on Tuesday (21/10) to do the tour - will let you know how we get on !!!!!

Would love to read your review of your trip in Oct 14 as we are thinking of booking for 2015

For us particular highlights included the overnight train from Hanoi to Danang (we were slightly anxious about this bit of the journey but it was great and made even more pleasurable given we’d picked up a screw top bottle of wine from a little 7Eleven in Hanoi), our room in the Melia hotel and the evening trip to Angkor Thom.

On the downside i) we found that the trip was a little too 'organised' for our taste but Gordon (our tour manager) was happy enough to let us escape regularly to do our own thing and ii) as our tour group was quite large everything took time, for example the organised lunches every day took 1.5hrs and we would have preferred to have had that time to explore and of course getting on and off the coach was time consuming - but I guess that's what you get when you do a trip like this!

Before travelling I had been surprised how little had been said on the internet about this trip...so if you are interested here are some things it might have been helpful to know before booking / travelling.....

• Whilst expensive, Great Rail’s recommended visa company offered an excellent service and this really did take the worry out of getting our visas;

• We took two medium sized holdalls and a smallish rucksack each and they fitted everywhere, we didn’t have to carry/move them that often ourselves but when we did this size worked for us – we still over packed though and could have left some stuff behind;

• Almost every hotel had toiletries so we were glad we had only packed a small supply ourselves.

• The trip is pretty ‘full on’ – we took electronic books to read and TV programmes to catch up on but as there is so much to see and do we had very little time to do that.

• Northern Vietnam in October is pretty overcast and wet so we were glad we had wet coats and an umbrella;

• 35 is a pretty large tour party…..but whilst we’d have preferred a more intimate trip 35 is not too large;

• Personally we’d have preferred more time in Hanoi and one couple in our party had arrived 24 hours before we did and stayed on 24hrs later in Siem Reap…with hindsight we might have liked to have done that.

• Don’t be afraid to say you don’t want to do something as part of the crowd – whilst much of the trip has to be done with everyone there are still chances to slip away and we said no to quite a few lunches (we felt they were always pretty bland, catering for a Western palette and there really is a limit to the amount of Pak Choi you can eat in a fortnight), said no to the water puppet show and we even made our own way back through Ho Chi Min City after the lunchtime visit to the post office (daring I know !!!!).

• The train trips were fabulous – although as the train seats get allocated by the tour manager we did not get a scenic seat on any of our train journeys - there were plenty of opportunities to get up wander about and take photos out of other windows though.

• The best clothes shopping is definitely in Hoi An …so don’t hold off buying things until later as everything else is much more expensive.

• The rail trip from Danang to Nha Trang takes ages and we didn’t arrive at the hotel until after 9pm…it wasn’t an issue but I just wish I’d prepared for such a long day and asked for our room key on arrival (as we weren’t given our room keys until everyone in the group had made full use of the buffet that had been kept open for us).

• The road trip to Siem Reap also takes almost all day and much of it is on the bumpiest of roads…we were therefore grateful we’d bought our ‘neck cushions’ to sit on !!!!

• Finally, the flights back from Siem Reap via Hanoi worked like a dream and despite worrying a little about the connections the timings worked well – remember to get duty free in Siem Reap though as Hanoi airport really has some of the worse facilities I’ve ever come across !!!

Shout if you have any more questions.

1 - The Vietnam Airlines flight was delayed by 25hrs due to a minor technical fault - apparently they have no service contract at Gatwick so have to fly in repair teams from elsewhere

2 - Although direct the VA flight is very uncomfortable - less legroom than Ryanair for 13 hrs is torture

3 - Once there our coach broke down and the driver tried to fix it himself presumably as he was warned not to incur any cost at any of the well equipped garages around. The local company tried to squeeze us all on to a minibus - we didn't fit and eventually took half the group on the broken coach with the coach leaning dreadfully due to broken suspension. Lost another 3 hours and very stressful and dangerous

4 - Didn't see much of Hanoi at all, but am told it's worth seeing!

5 - Food was generally poor - we had westernised set menus at most places. Strangely we were taken out for most meals rather than eating at the hotels where we could see some really good buffet foods that might have given us a little more variety, but presumably these were too expensive for a this premium priced tour! Most folk had severe stomach problems at some point during the tour - beware the cheap fixed menus!

6 - We had a second coach breakdown, this time fixed by a bicycle repair shop where the broken steering was welded up and after a delay of 2 hours we were on our way - how safe was that?

7 - Speeding up the Mekong was great - until the boat broke down. After another couple of hours delay we were transferred mid river onto a replacement smaller boat that didn't have enough seats or lifejackets for the party

8 - I had the most frightening experience of my life speeding up the Mekong in an overloaded boat with no navigation aids, in pitch darkness and the driver using a handheld torch that he couldn't possibly see by - eek!

9 - Room allocations were haphazard at best - Great Rail seem to have a policy of taking whatever rooms are available as long as they are the cheapest. Most travellers realised this and fought to change to the best rooms they could get whereas some in our party were not allocated rooms at all.

10 - Many important sites were missed out or were at extra cost - one example was the killing fields which although a sobering experience is a must if visiting Cambodia

11 - Upon return we complained about the problems to Great Rail who offer no help in claiming delayed boarding compensation and only offer a measly credit note off another holiday with them - dreadful!

Plus points, if run well the tour could I am sure be good, hotels are good, reunification express is a real experience, and the sights you see are well worth the trip. However with Great Rail you will pay a top price for a budget trip and if it goes wrong..... see above. My advice would be go with someone like Jules Verne or Kuoni who actually own the local tour companies so if things go wrong they can do something about it.

So very sorry to hear of your groups experience. We were the next tour after you departing November 12th and we kept hearing horror stories of what was happening to your group as things seemed to go from bad to worse. By contrast, I'm pleased to report, our trip went like clockwork. It was our eighth trip with GRJ and we are looking to book our ninth.

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Great Rail Journeys: Vietnam & Cambodia, 14 days was from £2,295 NOW £1,995 pp.

Explore the wonders of two fascinating nations on a tour of vietnam and cambodia by train..

Great Rail Journeys – Highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia

14 days was from £2,295 now £1,995 per person, about the tour.

Explore the wonders of two fascinating nations on a tour of Vietnam and Cambodia. Delve into the history and rich culture of Vietnam, visit breathtaking UNESCO-listed attractions and in Cambodia, explore the incredible temple city of Angkor Wat.

• Experience a full-day sightseeing tour of Hanoi, including a cyclo ride through the lively streets
• Take a stunning overnight cruise on a traditional junk boat through Halong Bay
• Discover Hoi An on a walking tour, uncovering the colourful and historic Old Quarter
• Visit Cambodia’s world-famous temple complex, Angkor Wat, which is over 800 years old
• Explore Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, on a fascinating guided tour

ACCOMMODATION

• 9 nights’ 3, 4 and 5-Star hotel accommodation
• 1 night on board the sleeper train from Hanoi to Da Nang, with breakfast
• 1 night on board a junk boat in Halong Bay

CHECK AVAILABILITY

PRICE:   £1,995 per person for 14 days, based on departing 13/10/2023 from London Heathrow. Includes flights from London Heathrow to Bangkok, and Siem Reap to London Heathrow via Bangkok. Includes 9 nights 3, 4 and 5-star hotel accommodation, 1 night on board the sleeper train from Hanoi to Da Nang, 1 night on board a junk boat in Halong Bay and 16 meals including 12 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 3 dinners. All rail and coach travel throughout the tour is included.

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