Vietnam’s scenic landscapes and vibrant cities unfold beautifully when explored by train. The nation’s railway network stretches over 2,600 kilometres, offering a memorable, low-carbon way to travel throughout the country.
The most well known route among travellers is the Reunification Express, the rail line that runs from the southern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City all the way north to Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi. However, due to service levels and comfort EXO only recommends certain sections which are outlined below, providing numerous opportunities for short hops or longer, overnight journeys to more remote areas.
The standard rail cars, of which there are normally 10-15, feature a mix of hard seats, soft seats and sleeper cabins. In recent years, a number of private carriages have been introduced with 2-4 berth cabins, opening up the enjoyment of rail travel to higher end travellers and families, with kids especially loving the train experience.
Keep reading to learn about some of EXO’s favourite Vietnam train journeys and our suggestions for making the most out of rail travel in Vietnam.
Trains between Hanoi and Sapa (Lao Cai):
To reach Sapa, the popular mountain town in the country’s northwest, travellers have the option of a drive along winding roads or a comfortable trail journey to Lao Cai, an hour from Sapa centre. EXO recommends the overnight train journey in a private compartment for comfort, safety and convenience.
Recommended timing:
- SP3: Departs Hanoi at 22.00; arrives Lao Cai 05:55
- SP4: Departs Lao Cai at 21.30; arrives Hanoi 05.25
EXO’s Recommendation:
- Chapa Express has deluxe 4-berth cabins as well as 2-berth cabins, each with air-conditioning and decorated with charming hill tribe designs. Chapa also has a lounge in Lao Cai train station, where guests can enjoy breakfast and a shower on arrival before transferring into Sapa.
- Fanxipan– Fanxipan also has clean 4- and 2 berth air-conditioned cabins equipped with wood decor and reading lights.
EXO recommends booking the full cabin, on either Chapa or Fanxipan, for additional comfort and privacy.
Trains between Hanoi, Hue and Danang
Overnight trains link the capital to the popular Central Vietnam tourist destinations of Hoi An and Hue. Although there are several flights per day, the train offers a convenient option for overnight travel as well as the opportunity for short, scenic day time rides between Danang (closest station to Hoi An) and Hue.
Recommended timing:
- Southbound SE 19: Departs Hanoi 19.20, arrives in Hue 08.20 and Danang 11.33
- Northbound SE 20: Departs Danang 12.28 and departs Hue 15.15, arrives in Hanoi 05.00
EXO’s Recommendation:
- From Hue to Danang or vice versa, EXO suggests booking the Heritage Train which features 5 air-conditioned carriages comfortable cushioned seats. The three-hour journey boasts great views from Hai Van pass and operates twice per day in each direction.
- For longer overnight trips, we suggest Laman carriage, which has well-equipped air-conditioned 2-berth and 4-berth cabins with a clean shared bathroom. Booking the full cabin for added privacy is recommended.
Trains in the South (between Nha Trang, Quy Nhon and Danang)
In the southern half of Vietnam, the commercial capital of Ho Chi Minh City is linked to coastal favourites like Nha Trang, Quy Nhon (Dieu Tri station) and Danang.
Recommended timing:
- Southbound SE21: Departs Danang 08.15, Arrive Quy Nhon (Dieu Tri) 14.51; Departs Quy Nhon (Dieu Tri) at 14.54, arrives Nha Trang at 19.18
- Northbound SE8 : Departs Nha Trang 13.46, arrives Quy Nhon (Dieu Tri) 18.52; Departs Quy Nhon (Dieu Tri) at 18.52 arrives Danang 23.06
EXO’s Recommendation:
Vietage: The beautifully decorated Vietage has six private booths, with seating for two people each. In addition to refined service, Vietage also offers gourmet dining (full meal or high tea depending on the journey) and head/neck massage treatments.
Vietage only operates between Danang, Quy Nhon (Dieu Tri station) and Nha Trang.
Trains in the South (between Ho Chi Minh City and Phan Thiet/Mui Ne)
The train between Ho Chi Minh City and Phan Thiet takes around 4 hours. The beaches of Mui Ne are a further 50 minutes drive from Phan Thiet Station.
Recommended timing:
- Northbound SPT2: Departs HCMC 06.10, arrives Phan Thiet 10.10
- Northbound SPT4: Departs HCMC 08.00, arrives Phan Thiet 11.54
- Southbound SPT1: Departs Phan Thiet 13.10, arrives HCMC 17.10
- Southbound SPT3: Departs Phan Thiet 14.35, arrives HCMC 18.55
EXO’s Recommendation:
EXO recommends booking soft seats or a 4-berth sleeper cabin for extra comfort and space. Note that the toilets on these trains are shared and basic.
Insider Tips & Important notes:
- Train tickets in Vietnam can sell out quickly, especially during peak travel periods: Christmas and New Year, summer (May-August) as well as the Vietnamese lunar new year (Tet) .
- EXO suggests booking at least six months in advance to secure preferred berths/seats.
- For overnight journeys, EXO recommends purchasing all berths in a cabin for extra privacy and relaxation.
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