When travelling by train through Vietnam, you should definitely do part of the tour by train. There you will get a good Insight into Vietnamese life. Most of the towns along the coast and Sa Pa in the far north are easily accessible by train.
„We at Unseen Vietnam Tours are happy to arrange these train journeys directly into your personalised tour.“
By train through Vietnam
Differences in quality and timetables
Travelling by train through Vietnam offers a variety of options in terms of quality and price, depending on the train number. On the route between Hanoi and Saigon, the "SE" Special Express trains are particularly outstanding. These trains, especially SE1, SE2, SE3, SE4 as well as SE19 and SE20, are characterised by speed and first-class facilities, including comfortable seating and sleeping cars with air conditioning.
While SE trains are the preferred choice for travellers, there are also slower options starting with TN or SNT that cover the Saigon to Hanoi route. While these trains offer slightly less comfort, they are also equipped with air conditioning and are more attractively priced. Please note that these trains do not offer an on-board restaurant.
Overall, the Vietnamese railway offers a wide range of travel options tailored to both comfort and budget. If you prefer a smooth and comfortable journey, the SE Special Express trains are recommended, while the TN and SNT trains are a more affordable option without sacrificing air conditioning.
The train classes in Vietnam
In Vietnam, a distinction is made between four classes:
- Hard seater (wooden benches)
- Soft seater (upholstered seats)
- Hard sleeper (similar to a couchette coach)
- Soft sleeper (sleeping car)
Hard seater train compartment
The hard-seater carriages offer the cheapest ticket options and are a budget-friendly way of travelling by train. However, the seats in these carriages are designed to be simpler, in keeping with their name. On the wooden benches, adventurous travellers can spend part of their train journey in an unconventional way. Nevertheless, it must be emphasised that the seating is definitely less comfortable for longer journeys.
In the hard-seater compartments, travellers have the option of keeping the windows open for safety reasons. This allows fresh air to circulate, while grilles ensure the safety of passengers. In addition, fans provide adequate cooling to make travelling conditions more bearable despite the easier seating.
It is important to note that the low-cost hard-seater seats are not available on all train types. This option is offered differently depending on the train and route, so it is advisable to check availability before booking.
Soft-seater train compartment
The soft-seater seats on Vietnamese trains offer a comfortable seating experience and are available in air-conditioned carriages, allowing for a pleasant journey over longer distances. These cushioned seats are designed to provide travellers with a cosy and relaxed seating experience while admiring Vietnam's breathtaking scenery.
The soft-seater compartments are equipped with air conditioning, which ensures a pleasant temperature and helps to keep your journey comfortable even on longer journeys. The air-conditioned carriages ensure that you are protected from the outside weather and can look forward to a relaxing and undisturbed journey.
However, it is important to note that the windows in the soft-seater compartments cannot be opened due to the air conditioning. This measure ensures the effectiveness of the air conditioning and helps to keep the interior pleasantly cool. Nevertheless, travellers can enjoy the magnificent view of the passing landscape through the windows and admire the beauty of Vietnam.
Hard sleeper train compartment
The hard-sleeper carriages on Vietnamese trains are similar to a couchette layout. Each compartment is able to accommodate six berths and can be fully enclosed for passenger privacy. The design is reminiscent of couchette carriages in other countries and allows travellers to rest comfortably during their train journey.
Inside each compartment there are six berths, arranged in three tiers one above the other. The lower beds are often regarded as the highest quality and therefore somewhat more expensive places. The higher the berth, the more affordable the sleeping space. This offers a practical option for travellers who want to optimise their expenditure.
Soft-Sleeper train compartment
In a soft-sleeper compartment on a Vietnamese train, four travellers share a private cabin. This compartment is comparable to a sleeper car and offers a pleasant and comfortable sleeping environment during your train journey. The cabin is fully lockable, which provides additional privacy and security.
The Soft Sleeper carriage was developed to ensure a good night's sleep. Each compartment is equipped with comfortable sleeping berths with mattresses, pillows and blankets. The beds are upholstered and provide a comfortable sleeping surface to make your journey as relaxing as possible.
Compared to the hard-sleeper carriage, the soft-sleeper carriage offers a higher level of comfort. The beds and cabins are often better upholstered and there is more space to move around. This is particularly advantageous for longer train journeys, as you can rest more comfortably.
It is important to note that the top half of the bed is usually cheaper than the bottom half. This offers an affordable option for travellers who want to keep an eye on their expenses. You can choose your sleeping arrangement according to your preferences and budget.
Eating on the train
During the train journey, you have the opportunity to purchase meals, snacks and drinks directly in your compartment.
The journey is enriched by regular longer stops at the stations. There, numerous food stalls offer a varied selection to provide passengers with delicious meals. These stops are an opportunity to sample local specialities and experience the country's culinary diversity.
Train delays in Vietnam
If everything runs smoothly, the railway also runs on time. Vietnam is repeatedly hit by severe storms, especially in the rainy season. Heavy rainfall or a cyclone then also affect the timetable. However, hour-long delays or train cancellations are not uncommon due to flooded or mired tracks.
If you want to travel through Vietnam by train during the rainy season, you should definitely bear this in mind.
The most popular train routes in Vietnam
Some routes in Vietnam are particularly appealing and are often used by travellers. Here we present the most important ones:
1. Private night trains from Hanoi to Sapa (Lao Cai)
| Train | Departure Hanoi | Arrival Lao Cai | Travel time | Price per person. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chapa Express | 8:35 PM or 10:00 PM | 05:15 or 05:55 | approx. 7 hours 40–55 minutes. | £60–£120 |
| Victoria Express | 10:00 PM | 05:55 | Approx. 7 hours 55 minutes. | £60–£120 |
| Laman Express | 10:00 PM | 05:55 | Approx. 7 hours 55 minutes. | 35–38 EUR |
| Damitrans Train | 8:35 PM or 10:00 PM | 05:15 or 05:55 | approx. 7 hours 40–55 minutes. | from 35 € – VIP 75 € |
| Sapaly Express | 10:00 PM | 05:55 | Approx. 7 hours 55 minutes. | 50–88 € |
Note: All trains run between Hanoi and Lao Cai – not to Sapa itself.
Transfer from Lao Cai Station to Sapa
The route from Lao Cai to Sapa is approximately 32 kilometres long and takes about an hour by car. Taxis and shared minibuses are usually available directly at the train station exit. Many accommodations in Sapa also offer an organised pick-up service by car or minibus, which you can arrange with your hotel in advance.
2. The new first-class train from Hanoi to Da Nang
Since 20 October 2024, a high-quality train service has connected Hanoi with the coastal city of Da Nang, offering travellers a comfortable alternative to bus and road. The approximately 791-kilometre route passes emerald-green rice paddies, striking karst mountains and sparkling coastal stretches, making it one of Vietnam's most scenic train journeys.
Comfort on board
The modern carriages have air conditioning, comfortable seats, and free Wi-Fi. Timetables and tickets can be easily booked online.
Timings and prices
| Train | Departure | Arrival | Travel time | Price per person. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE19 | Hanoi, approx. 19:55 | Da Nang, approx. 12:15 PM (following day) | approx. 16 hours 20 minutes. | from approx. 37 € (weekday), approx. 41 € (weekend) |
| SE20 | Da Nang, approx. 17:30 | Hanoi, approx. 11:50 AM (following day) | Approx. 18 hours 20 minutes. | Maximum price around €34 |
Please note: times and prices are subject to change. We recommend checking the latest timetables online before booking.
The Hue – Da Nang Panorama Train via the Hai Van Pass
A very special section reveals itself between the towns Hue and Da Nang. During this stage, the train meanders gently along the picturesque coastline, framed by the majestic backdrop of the Hai Van Pass, also known as Cloud pass is framed by a mountain pass. This pass not only offers breathtaking panoramic views of the deep blue sea and the green mountains, but also a fascinating feeling of sublimity and closeness to nature.
Since 26 March 2024, the „Kết nối di sản miền Trung" (Connecting the Heritage of Central Vietnam) panorama train, specifically designed for tourists, has been operating here – a joint project between Vietnam Railway and the local authorities of Hue and Da Nang. The approximately 90-kilometre route connects two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Imperial City of Hue and the Old Town of Hoi An, near Da Nang.
Timetable
| Train | Departure | Arrival | Travel time |
|---|---|---|---|
| HD1 | Hue, 07:45 | Da Nang, 10:35 AM | Approx. 2 hours 50 minutes. |
| HD3 | Hue, 2:25 PM | Da Nang, 17:40 | Approx. 3 hours 15 minutes. |
| HD2 | Da Nang, 7:50 AM | Hue, 11:05 AM | Approx. 3 hours 15 minutes. |
| HD4 | Da Nang, 3pm | Hue, 5:45 PM | Approx. 2 hours 45 minutes. |
Note: Times may change – we recommend checking current timetables online before booking.
Buy train tickets for Vietnam online or at the ticket office?
When buying train tickets in Vietnam, it is advisable to purchase tickets directly at the station, ideally a few days before travelling, to ensure that you get your desired connection. Tickets are often sold out on the day of travel.
However, if you're on a tight schedule, buying train tickets online is a popular option. One reliable online provider I can recommend for travel in Southeast Asia is 12Go Asia. There, you can conveniently book your train ticket for your rail journey through Vietnam online. However, please note that not all train classes or trains may be available when booking online.
Frequently Asked Questions about Train Travel in Vietnam
Tickets can be bought directly at the local train stations or via the official website of the Vietnamese railway (DSVN). For foreign credit cards and comfortable online booking in German, it is recommended to use reliable booking platforms such as 12Go, as seat selection also works without any problems there.
A distinction is generally made between seating (Hard Seat / Soft Seat with air conditioning) and sleeping accommodations (Hard Sleeper with 6 beds per compartment / Soft Sleeper with 4 beds per compartment). For longer distances and overnight journeys, the air-conditioned "Soft Sleeper" class is the most comfortable and highly recommended option for tourists.
Night trains in Vietnam are considered safe and are very popular with travellers, as they save the cost of a hotel stay. The compartments are lockable and there is clean bedding and power sockets. Nevertheless, it is advisable to always wear valuables directly on your person and to protect sensitive ears from train noise with earplugs.
The official luggage allowance for Vietnam Railways is 20 kg per person. In practice, however, the weight is rarely strictly checked for regular travellers. What is important is that you can carry your luggage independently and stow it safely in the luggage racks above the seats or under the lower berths in the sleeping compartments.
