There is no doubt that flying is the quickest way to get from one place to another. But when it comes to long-distance travel by land, nothing beats the magnificent scenery you get to enjoy from the window of a train.
Pu Luong Excursions will introduce you some of the most beautiful train journeys in Vietnam for your upcoming vacation.
Train in Vietnam
Why choose a Vietnam Train Trip?
Breathtaking Scenery
The best way to see Vietnam is by train. Rail travel gives you a close-up view of the country, showing you its beauty in a way that is hard to beat. As you travel, you will pass through mountains, rice paddies, and breathtaking coastlines. One journey you absolutely should not miss is the train ride from Da Nang to Hue through Hai Van Pass — the views are just stunning and should definitely be on your vacation bucket list!
View from Vietnam train
Convenient Procedure
Remember all the trouble you had at the airport? Check-in and departure take way longer than you expect, not to mention the cost and time of that cab ride to the airport, which is usually pretty far from the city center. Well, these issues are a thing of the past with rail travel!
Trains are a quick and easy way to get to and from the city, especially with train stations located in perfect spots.
Of course, some places, like Sapa, are only accessible by rail or bus. But taking the overnight train can be super convenient. You will arrive at your destination in the morning, ready to go!
Comfortable Ride
Rail travel is a much better option than flying, where you might end up in a cramped seat, or taking a car or bus with bumpy roads.
Traveling by train in Vietnam is a really relaxing experience. You’ve got plenty of room to stretch out and get comfortable. And if you’re feeling bored or need a break from sitting, you can always stand up and move around.
Local Experience
Taking the train in Vietnam lets you really experience life like a local. You will get the chance to meet Vietnamese people, try local food at different railway stops, and even buy souvenirs right from the train windows. It is a fun and unique way to connect with the culture.
Reasonable Price
Even though it might take a bit more time, traveling by train is often much cheaper than flying, and sometimes even more affordable than taking a bus.
The Most Beautiful Train Journeys in Vietnam
Train from Hanoi to Sapa
The train to Lao Cai is the go-to option for getting to Sapa. While Sapa does not have its own train station, this is still the most common way to travel to the mountains.
Trains from Hanoi leave at 8, 9, and 10 PM, and arrive in Lao Cai around 4, 5, and 6 AM. From there, it is just about an hour to Sapa by shared minibus or public bus, winding through the mountain roads.
Taking the train to Sapa also gives you a chance to treat yourself to a little luxury in a first-class carriage, where you can get a good night’s sleep before your adventures in Sapa.
Train from Hanoi to Sapa view
Train from Hanoi to Phong Nha
Phong Nha, like Sapa, doesn’t have its own train line. But if you are looking to travel from the capital to the countryside with a beach stop along the way, you can take a simple overnight train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi. This town is just next to Phong Nha, and in good weather, it’s a lovely place to spend a day or two. After that, you can either join a group tour or rent a motorbike to make the one-hour journey to the National Park.
Train from Hanoi to Phong Nha view
Read more: Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Train from Haiphong to Hanoi
Passengers can buy train tickets for the 2-hour-and-45-minute ride to Hanoi from Hai Phong Railway Station for just VND150,000 (around USD6).
The 102 km rail line between Hanoi and Hai Phong offers some beautiful scenery, with rice fields and lively streets that showcase the vibrant local culture.
But the real highlight of the journey is when the train approaches Long Bien Bridge as it enters Hanoi. The fresh breeze will wake you up, and the panoramic view of the vast Red River and the lush fields along its banks is simply breathtaking.
The ride is also special because of the 117-year-old Long Bien Bridge, a cultural and historical icon of Hanoi that has stood strong through decades of war.
It only takes about five minutes to travel from Long Bien Train Station to Hanoi Railway Station, where passengers can get off. Both stations are just a short distance from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, full of historic buildings and unique dining spots.
Train Haiphong – Hanoi
Train from Danang to Hue
The train route from Da Nang to Hue, or the other way around through the Hai Van Pass, is probably the most famous in Vietnam, maybe even all of Southeast Asia. It’s a long road trip, usually packed with hundreds of motorbikes and scooters, but don’t worry if you are not a biker — the train ride offers just as stunning views.
The Da Nang – Hue train journey is truly breathtaking, winding along the coastline and surrounded by dense jungle. Be sure to grab a good seat and sit on the right if you are heading to Hue, or on the left if you are going to Da Nang.
During the day, trains like the SE2, SE4, and TN2 run from Da Nang to Hue, while the SE1, SE19, and SE3 travel in the opposite direction, all before lunchtime.
Train Danang – Hue
Train from Dalat to Trai Mat
Da Lat, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful cities, is known for its hidden gems, many of which can only be seen from the seat of a train.
As the train leaves Da Lat Railway Station and passes Tran Quy Cap Street, you’ll soon be surrounded by rows of cherry blossoms that cover the city, making it feel like you are in Japan.
Cherry blossom season in Da Lat usually lasts from January to February, so if you time your visit right, you can enjoy this incredible window-side view.
During the 7 km journey, you will see amazing flower fields, charming villages, and misty, lush mountains from the comfort of your carriage.
Once you reach Trai Mat Train Station, it is just a five-minute walk to Linh Phc Pagoda, Da Lat’s largest pagoda, made entirely of thousands of broken glass shards.
Train Dalat – Trai Mat
Train from Danang to Quy Nhon
Passengers can hop aboard The Vietage, an Indochinese-style luxury train carriage, at Da Nang Railway Station for a 6-hour journey to Dieu Tri Train Station in Quy Nhon City.
The Vietage covers 317 kilometers, passing through stunning rice fields, wooded valleys, and the breathtaking South Central Coast of Vietnam.
As the country’s first luxury rail car, The Vietage offers a comfortable and elegant way to enjoy Vietnam’s scenic beauty.
With only 12 seats, the carriage provides a quiet and private atmosphere. Passengers can unwind in the massage parlor, enjoy elegant meals at the restaurant, or relax at the bar with a selection of drinks.
When you arrive at Dieu Tri Train Station, it’s just a 20-minute taxi ride to Quy Nhon City Center, where you can take a beautiful beach walk or enjoy waterfront dining along the crescent-shaped Quy Nhon Central Coast.
If you are looking for a peaceful retreat, Eo Gio and Hon Kho are 20 kilometers from the city center, offering stunning beaches perfect for a quiet getaway.
The Vietage – luxurious train from Danang to Quy Nhon
Options for Seats on Train in Vietnam
- Hard Seat: A basic seat, usually covered in vinyl.
- Soft Seat: A seat also covered in vinyl, but more comfortable than the hard seat.
- Hard Berth: This has three layers of beds, with six berths per cabin. The price depends on the comfort level, with the upper berth being the cheapest and the lower berth being the most expensive.
- Soft Berth: These cabins have beds on two levels, with four berths per cabin. The quality of the cabin can vary — some have wood panels, while others feature hard plastic interiors.
Breathtaking view from Vietnam train journey
Where to Buy Vietnam Train Tickets?
Online
For a hassle-free experience and to save time, you can buy your train tickets online and get an e-ticket. Some reliable websites to check out include Baolau and 12go.
At train station
You can also buy tickets directly at the station, though it might take a bit more time and can be a little complicated. That’s why we recommend purchasing tickets online if you can.
If you are looking for a real person to help book your tickets and handle any urgent issues during your trip, or to keep you updated on delays or changes, you can contact us. We offer this service with extra care, making sure that even if you are traveling solo on a budget, you will get all the attention and support you need. We also offer this experience as part of many all-inclusive and budget-friendly tour packages. Contact us for more information.
Explore one of the best countryside day trips: Pu Luong Day Trip