By train through Vietnam

The train is one of the most frequently used modes of transport in Vietnam. If you are planning a train journey through the country, these tips will provide valuable support: discover different train classes, find out more about catering options both on the trains and at the stations. Use sources for timetables and online tickets in Vietnam. You will also learn which routes pass through the country's most picturesque landscapes. Plan your train journey with the help of this useful advice and experience Vietnam in a comfortable and enjoyable way.

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.

Vietnam Zugstrecken

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)

 

Mit der Bahn durch Vietnam

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 Abteil e1590140508612

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-Abteil

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 Abteil

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.

Essen im Sleeper Zug

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.

Berge Vietnam

The most beautiful train route in Vietnam

The railway line from Hanoi to Saigon is rich in scenic beauty, and a very special section is revealed between the cities of Hue and Da Nang. During this stage, the train meanders leisurely along the scenic coastline, framed by the majestic backdrop of Hai Van Pass, also known as Cloud Pass. This pass not only offers breathtaking panoramic views of the deep blue sea and green mountains, but also a mesmerising sense of grandeur and closeness to nature.

Another highlight of this train journey is the exit from the bustling city of Hanoi. The experience of life on the tracks amidst the hustle and bustle of the city is a unique opportunity to feel the pulsating heart of this dynamic metropolis. Meeting the locals and observing their daily lives along the railway line provides an insight into the diversity of life and the cultural dynamics of the city.

However, the Hai Van Pass is undoubtedly the highlight of this train journey. During the leisurely journey along this impressive route, travellers have the opportunity to admire the contrasts between the dramatic mountain landscapes and the glistening sea. The clouds gently drifting over the mountains create an almost magical atmosphere, making this journey a truly unforgettable experience.

Wartesaal in Hue Vietnam

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.

Explore Vietnam's vibrant landscapes on the luxurious Lotus train

The Lotus Train, a renowned tourist train in Vietnam, offers a first-class train journey with an exquisite interior. Since its official launch in June 2019, this train has set new standards for comfort and service quality. The Lotus Train mainly serves the Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Dong Hoi - Hue - Da Nang routes and vice versa, offering travellers a first-class train connection.

The cabins on the Lotus train are equipped with high-quality facilities comparable to hotels. You can lean back and relax in the cosy berths. The air conditioning ensures a pleasant temperature, while Wi-Fi, coffee, snacks, seasonal fruit and even breakfast further enhance your travelling comfort.

The dedicated Lotus train staff are available around the clock to ensure that your journey from Hanoi to Hue - Da Nang is a pleasant and memorable experience. With expertise, diligence and enthusiasm, they will do their utmost to provide you with a first-class service.

If you're looking for a train service that offers spacious, clean and comfortable cabins, the Lotus Train service is undoubtedly the perfect choice. With its first-class amenities, top-notch service and a route selection that includes some of Vietnam's most picturesque locations, the Lotus Train promises a train journey of the highest quality.

Lotus Train VIP

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 are on a tight schedule, buying train tickets online is a popular option. A reliable online provider that I can recommend when travelling in Southeast Asia is 12Go Asia. There you can easily book your train ticket online for your train journey through Vietnam. However, please note that not all train classes or trains may be available when booking online.

There are also well-developed bus connections in Vietnam, which are an alternative travel option.

Here below you'll find 12GoAsia train, bus and ferry routes:

Powered by 12Go system

Safe and comfortable travel

Trotz vorhandener öffentlicher Verkehrsmittel fühlen Sie sich möglicherweise unwohl und unsicher. Insbesondere wenn Sie in kleinen Gruppen oder mit Ihrer Familie reisen, inklusive Kindern, ist ein privater PKW-Transfer in Vietnam die optimale Wahl.

Discover charming destinations such as SapaNinh Binh, the Halong BayHanoi, Ho Chi Minh CityHoi AnDa Nang and the Mekong Delta mit unserem zuverlässigen privaten Transferdienst. Genießen Sie eine bequeme und sichere Fahrt zu diesen faszinierenden Orten, ohne sich um öffentliche Verkehrsmittel kümmern zu müssen.

  • You can stop at any time and visit places that interest you without having to keep to the schedule of other travelers.
  • You are taken directly to your destination and do not have to change trains. This saves you time and allows you to concentrate on other things.
  • You don't have to worry about your luggage either, as it is stored safely in the vehicle.

 

Karl-Heinz Kronpass

Karl-Heinz Kronpass

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