Vietnam Railways

There are many wonderful reasons why travelling by train in Vietnam is always one of the best ways. You might think about the big saving of travel expenses (in fact, train tickets are much cheaper than air tickets) and the convenience and comfort (that air-conditioned trains can bring while cars or buses cannot). Yes, they are some of the reasons, however; one of the greatest reasons you may have never thought about: trains allow you to see the countryside at a leisure pace. Other-worldly vistas along the coast and up to the hills of Hanoi – Saigon train journey would otherwise have missed by flying. And it would be a great pity if seeing the countryside means that much to you.

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Although inter provincial buses system and especially domestic flights have been massively meliorated in recent years to reach numerous destinations in Vietnam, train is still a popular and favorite option for many travellers and people when they are required or desire to get to other regions. It is not totally sure that why there are still a huge number of people prefer travelling by trains, and the reason for this choice is greatly diverse from these travellers.

However, low cost is not only the reason to travel by this transport. Many people who are affordable to travel by other methods still use train for their trip. The magnificent thing is that in various regions along rail route from the North to South, railways systems cross or even through mountains, forests, valleys, plain and sea which have incredibly breathtaking and tempting sceneries. Also, the speeds of the train is quite slow, so travellers are able to enjoy the spectacular view outside the train’s windows, take some pictures or videos and remain memorable moments on their trips.

Vietnam Railways system is state-owned by national carrier: Vietnam Railways (“Đường sắt Việt Nam”). To be honestly, the system is ageing and not as modern as in many other countries, however; it cannot be denied that this is one of the safest, most convenient and inexpensive ways to get around the country. It is a dependable service offering the relaxing way to see the countryside. Up to present, the system consists of seven rail lines, namely, Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi – Lao Cai, Hanoi – Dong Dang, Hanoi – Quan Trieu, Hanoi – Hai Phong, and Kep – Halong. Nonetheless, only the first two lines are much used by foreign visitors.

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Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)/ North – South Line: This is the main route that is widely used by both Vietnamese citizens and foreign people. North – South Railway has the length of around 1,726km (1,072 mi) with more than 190 stations in many popular destinations such as Hue, Da Nang (for Hoi An), Quang Ngai, Nha Trang, Thap Tram, Dieu Tri (for Quy Nhon), Muong Man (for Mui Ne), Vinh, Dong Hoi, Dong Ha, Hanoi, and Saigon.

View Vietnam Train Schedule

North – South Route:

Route Distance (km) Time (hours)
Hanoi – Hue 319 5 – 7
Vinh – Hue 369 6.5 – 8
Hue – Da Nang 103 3 – 4
Da Nang – Nha Trang 524 10 – 12
Nha Trang – Muong Man 236 6 – 8
Muong Man – Sai Gon 175 4 – 5


Hanoi – Lao Cai
: Hanoi to Lao Cai running line is mainly used by travelers who want to move between Hanoi and Sapa – one of the most favorite spots in the North.

See more related train schedule from main destinations:

Hanoi Sapa Trains

Trains from Hanoi – Hue – Da Nang – Nha Trang – Saigon

Trains from Ninh Binh

Trains from Hue

Trains from Da Nang

Trains from Nha Trang

Trains from Saigon (HCM) – Nha Trang – Quy Nhon – Da Nang – Hue – Hanoi

Vietnam Transports is official online booking agency of Vietnam Railways. Please contact us for any other questions regarding train reservation booking@vietnam-transports.com

Or speak to a Specialist, call now: +84969303322

Train classes of Vietnam Railways

  • Limousine bus
  • Limousine bus