Traveling by train in Vietnam is making a strong comeback as an ideal transportation option for those wanting to explore the diverse beauty of Vietnam in a slow and emotional way. Instead of rushing on flights or buses, a train journey offers a relaxing opportunity to admire the stunning natural landscapes stretching across the country, from lush green plains to majestic mountain ranges and poetic coastlines. Let’s explore essential train travel experiences with “Du lịch khắp thế gian” to have a complete and memorable trip.
1. Tips for Choosing the Right Train Seat Class for Your Trip
Choosing the right seat class is crucial to ensure comfort and fully enjoy your train journey. Depending on the travel distance, budget, and personal preferences, you can consider different seat classes: hard seats, soft seats, and sleeper berths.
For short journeys, hard seats or soft seats are economical choices that still ensure basic comfort. Hard seats are the most affordable, suitable for those prioritizing cost savings. Soft seats are more comfortable with air conditioning, a good option for journeys under 5 hours.
Scenic view from a train window in Vietnam
Admiring the beautiful scenery of Vietnam through the train window is a unique travel experience
For long journeys, especially cross-country trips, sleeper berths are the optimal choice. Sleeper berths provide privacy and comfort for rest and relaxation throughout the long journey. There are different types of sleeper berths such as 4-berth compartments (4 beds/compartment) or 6-berth compartments (6 beds/compartment), depending on your needs and budget, you can choose the appropriate type.
Reference price table for train seat classes (Note: Prices may vary depending on the time and route):
| Seat Class | Under 5 hours | Under 15 hours | Under 25 hours | Over 25 hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hard seat | From 80,000 VND | From 200,000 VND | From 500,000 VND | From 700,000 VND |
| Soft seat | From 120,000 VND | From 300,000 VND | From 700,000 VND | From 1,000,000 VND |
| Sleeper berth | Not applicable | From 800,000 VND | From 1,100,000 VND | From 1,400,000 VND |
2. Tips for Booking Cheap Train Tickets & Convenient Booking Channels
To have an economical train trip, hunting for cheap tickets is a concern for many. Below are tips for booking train tickets at good prices and quick, convenient booking channels:
- Avoid peak season: Train ticket prices usually increase during holidays, Tet, and summer tourist season. If possible, plan your trip in the low season for better ticket prices and avoid crowds.
- Book tickets early: Train tickets usually go on sale about 1-2 months before the departure date. Booking tickets early gives you more opportunities to choose good seats and preferential fares. Especially during holidays, train tickets often sell out very quickly, so booking early is extremely important.
- Take advantage of promotions: Vietnam Railways and train ticket booking apps often have promotions and discounts on tickets during special occasions. Follow information on the official website of Vietnam Railways and booking apps to not miss the opportunity to hunt for cheap tickets.
Booking train tickets early for better seat choices and prices
The ideal time to buy train tickets is 1 to 2 months before the departure date
Currently, there are many convenient train ticket booking channels, suitable for the needs of all passengers:
2.1. Buy Tickets Directly at the Train Station
This is a traditional method and still chosen by many, especially the elderly. Buying tickets at the station helps you get direct advice and can flexibly choose train times and seats. However, this method can be time-consuming, especially during peak hours or holidays.
2.2. Book Train Tickets Online Via Banking Apps
With the development of technology, booking train tickets online has become easier and faster than ever. Many banking applications such as VCB Digibank, BIDV SmartBanking, Vietinbank iPay Mobile, Agribank E-Mobile Banking… have integrated online train ticket booking utilities. With just a few simple steps on your phone, you can easily book tickets and make payments.
Steps to book train tickets via banking apps:
- Log in to the banking app: Open the banking app on your phone and log in to your account.
- Select “Book Train Tickets” utility: Find and select the “Book Train Tickets” or “Train Tickets” utility on the application interface.
- Enter journey information: Select departure station, destination station, departure date, and number of passengers.
- Search and select train: The system will display a list of suitable trains. Choose your desired train, seat class, and seat.
- Enter passenger information: Fill in complete personal information of passengers.
- Pay and receive tickets: Choose payment method and complete the transaction. Electronic train tickets will be sent to your email or SMS.
Instructions for booking train tickets quickly via a banking app
Booking train tickets online via banking apps is quick and convenient
2.3. Buy Train Tickets Online Via VNPAY E-Wallet
VNPAY e-wallet is also an online train ticket booking channel trusted by many. With a friendly, easy-to-use interface and many attractive promotions, VNPAY offers a fast and economical train ticket booking experience.
Similar to banking apps, you just need to enter journey information, select a train, and pay via VNPAY wallet. In addition, VNPAY also regularly has special promotions for train ticket booking services, helping you save costs for your trip.
| VNPAY e-wallet is a convenient online train ticket booking option |
2.4. Buy Tickets Online on the Website of Vietnam Railways
The official website of Vietnam Railways (dsvn.vn) is a reputable and official online ticket sales channel. Buying tickets directly on the website gives you peace of mind about prices and train information. However, the website interface can sometimes be a bit complex for new users.
3. Train Travel Tips for Beginners
To make your train trip smoother and more enjoyable, keep these useful tips in mind:
- Choose comfortable clothes: You will spend a lot of time on the train, so prioritize loose, breathable, and comfortable clothing for movement.
- Remember the train schedule: Save train departure time, arrival time, carriage number, and seat number to be proactive with time and avoid missing the train. You should arrive at the train station about 30-45 minutes before departure time to check in and settle in your seat.
- Prepare personal items: Bring necessary personal items such as drinking water, snacks, wet wipes, face masks, medicine (if needed), portable phone charger, books or headphones for entertainment on the train.
- Pack light: You should bring compact carry-on luggage that is easy to move and store on the train. Avoid carrying bulky luggage that causes inconvenience to yourself and affects other passengers.
- Comply with train regulations: Maintain general hygiene, do not smoke on the train, do not make noise that affects others. When arriving at the station, follow the instructions of station staff and security regulations.
- Limit getting off the train at stops: Trains usually only stop at each station for a short time. Unless necessary, you should limit getting off the train to avoid missing your trip.
Essential items for a train trip in Vietnam
Preparing enough personal items makes the train trip more comfortable
4. Top Most Beautiful Tourist Train Routes in Vietnam
Vietnam boasts beautiful railway lines, not only as a means of transportation but also as a journey to explore majestic and poetic natural landscapes. Here are some famous tourist train routes that you should not miss:
4.1. Saigon – Binh Dinh Train Route: Admiring the Diverse Central Region
The Saigon – Binh Dinh train route is over 400km long, passing through many beautiful provinces of Central Vietnam such as Binh Duong, Binh Thuan, Phan Thiet, and Lam Dong. On this journey, you will admire the landscape transformation from vast rice fields, rolling hills to blue beaches. In particular, the moment the sunset falls by the train window promises to bring romantic and unforgettable experiences.
Reference ticket price: From 420,000 VND/soft seat air-conditioned ticket for the Saigon – Dieu Tri (Binh Dinh) route.
Scenic railway in Binh Dinh, Vietnam
Diverse natural scenery on the Saigon – Binh Dinh train route
4.2. Saigon – Mui Ne, Phan Thiet Train Route: To the Blue Sea and Golden Sand
Mui Ne is a famous beach tourist destination of Phan Thiet, attracting tourists with long stretches of golden sand, clear blue sea, and pristine, charming natural scenery. The train journey to Mui Ne will bring you wonderful sea view experiences, especially when the train runs along the coast.
Reference ticket price: From 204,000 VND/soft seat air-conditioned ticket for the Saigon – Mui Ne, Phan Thiet route.
Train journey to Mui Ne with beautiful coastal scenery
Traveling to Mui Ne by train to enjoy the beauty of the sea
4.3. Hanoi – Lao Cai, Sapa Train Route: Conquering the Northwest Highlands
Sapa is an ideal destination for those who love the majestic beauty of the Northwest mountains and forests. The Hanoi – Lao Cai train route will take you closer to Sapa, home to the magnificent Hoang Lien Son mountain range, the poetic Muong Hoa valley, and villages hidden in the mist. From Lao Cai station, you can easily travel to Sapa by bus or taxi.
Reference ticket price: From 315,000 VND/4-berth sleeper air-conditioned ticket for the Hanoi – Lao Cai route.
Railway to Lao Cai leading to misty Sapa
Exploring Sapa by train to experience the beauty of the highlands
4.4. Saigon – Nha Trang Train Route: To the Island Paradise
Nha Trang is known as one of the most beautiful bays in the world. The Saigon – Nha Trang train route will take you to this beautiful coastal city, where you can immerse yourself in the clear blue sea, explore pristine islands, and enjoy fresh seafood. Sunrise over Nha Trang sea is a wonderful moment that you should not miss when traveling by train here.
Reference ticket price: From 320,000 VND/soft seat air-conditioned ticket for the Saigon – Nha Trang route.
Train route to Nha Trang with captivating sea views
Traveling to Nha Trang by train to enjoy blue sea and white sand
4.5. Phung Hung Train Street (Hanoi): Check-in at the Railway Station in the Heart of the Old Quarter
Phung Hung Train Street is a unique and famous check-in spot in Hanoi. The short 2km railway section runs through the bustling Old Quarter, creating a scene that is both ancient and modern. Sitting on a slow train and watching the daily life of Hanoians on both sides of the tracks is an interesting and different experience.
Unique Phung Hung train street in Hanoi
Train passing through Hanoi's Old Quarter
Check-in at Phung Hung train street, an attractive destination in Hanoi
4.6. Da Lat – Trai Mat Train Route: Admiring Flowers and Cool Climate
The Da Lat – Trai Mat train route is known as the “flower road” of Da Lat. The 45-minute journey will take you through colorful flower gardens, green pine hills, and the dreamy, romantic scenery of Da Lat. The train moves slowly and smoothly, creating ideal conditions for you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Reference ticket price: 72,000 VND/one-way ticket.
Picturesque train line from Da Lat to Trai Mat
Admiring dreamy Da Lat on the Da Lat – Trai Mat train route
4.7. Da Nang – Hue Train Route: Heritage Journey Through the Majestic Hai Van Pass
The Da Nang – Hue train route is over 110km long, known as one of the most beautiful railway lines in the world. The 2-hour journey will take you through the majestic Hai Van Pass, where you can admire panoramic views of rolling mountains, vast ocean, and impressive winding curves. Daily Mail (UK) magazine also once voted this railway line into the list of the most beautiful railway lines in the world.
Reference ticket price: From 92,000 VND/soft seat air-conditioned ticket for the Da Nang – Hue route.
Da Nang – Hue railway via the majestic Hai Van Pass
Majestic Hai Van Pass on the Da Nang – Hue train route
4.8. Saigon – Binh Thuan Train Route: Exploring the Land of Dragon Fruit
The Saigon – Binh Thuan train route is one of the most beautiful railway lines in the Central – South region. The nearly 200km journey and about 4 hours of travel will take you through vast dragon fruit fields, long white sand dunes, and clear blue beaches. The pristine, simple natural scenery of Binh Thuan will surely captivate you.
Reference ticket price: From 191,000 VND/soft seat air-conditioned ticket for the Saigon – Binh Thuan route.
Saigon – Binh Thuan train route through dragon fruit farms
Simple beauty of Binh Thuan on the Saigon – Binh Thuan train route
4.9. Da Nang – Quy Nhon Train Route: Admiring the Scenery of South Central Coast
The Da Nang – Quy Nhon train route will take you to explore the charming beauty of the South Central Coast. The 300km journey and 6 hours of travel will help you capture the wonderful natural scenery of this land, from blue sea, white sand to majestic mountains.
Reference ticket price: From 235,000 VND/ticket for the Da Nang – Quy Nhon route.
Da Nang – Quy Nhon train route with Central Vietnam coastal views
South Central Coast scenery on the Da Nang – Quy Nhon train route
Traveling by train is a slow, interesting, and emotional journey experience. With the experiences and suggestions about the most beautiful railway routes in Vietnam shared by “Du lịch khắp thế gian”, hopefully you will have a truly memorable and meaningful trip. Plan your journey to explore Vietnam by train today!