Explore Vietnam's Top 5 Scenic Train Journeys

Vietnam, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant history, is a country that has long captivated the hearts of travellers. While many explore this Southeast Asian gem by road or air, there's a unique and mesmerising way to experience the country's beauty: by train. Vietnam's train trips offers a front-row seat to some of the country's most stunning natural and cultural wonders.

Best Train Journeys In Vietnam

Hanoi To Hai Phong

If you want to explore Vietnam's stunning scenery via railway routes, taking a train journey from Hanoi to Hai Phong is worth considering. This train route covers a distance of 102 km and takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete. Along the way, you'll see the contrast between the bustling city life and the serene rural scenery. One of the journey's highlights is the Long Bien Bridge, a 117-year-old bridge connecting Hanoi with the Red River Delta. The bridge is of great historical and cultural significance, having survived decades of wars. It also offers a panoramic view of the Red River and its green fields on both sides, making it an attraction not to miss for anyone visiting the region.

Price of a train from Hanoi To Hai Phong: Ticket prices vary and are about INR 443.30 (VND1,30,000).

Da Nang To Hue

If you're looking for a train ride that offers breathtaking views, the journey from Da Nang to Hue is arguably one of the best in Vietnam. The train route spans 103 km and lasts around four hours, taking you through the spectacular Hai Van Pass, which separates the North and South Central Coast regions. Along the way, you'll enjoy stunning ocean views and mountains and pass by some of the most famous landmarks in Da Nang, including the Marble Mountains, the Son Tra Peninsula, and the Dragon Bridge.

Price of a train from Da Nang To Hue: The train tickets cost between INR 380 - INR 1,200 (VND 1,11,502.35-VND 352,112.68).

Da Lat To Trai Mat

It's a short but incredibly scenic train trip that covers a distance of only seven km and takes around 30 minutes to complete. The Vietnam train travels on a narrow-gauge railway that was built by the French in 1932 and is still preserved today. As you travel through pine forests, flower gardens, vegetable farms, and tea plantations, you'll get a glimpse of the rural life in the highlands. If you happen to visit in spring, you'll also be able to see cherry blossoms along the way. Once you reach Trai Mat, don't forget to visit the Linh Phuoc Pagoda, a colourful temple adorned with mosaic tiles and glass bottles.

Price of a train from Da Lat To Trai Mat: The ticket fare from Da Lat to Trai Mat is INR 579.36 (VND 170,000)

Ho Chi Minh City To Binh Thuan

This luxury train in Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh City to Binh Thuan is a unique experience that takes you from the bustling metropolis to the peaceful coastal province. The journey covers a distance of 187 km and lasts for about four hours. Along the way, you will see the contrast between the urban sprawl and the rural tranquillity. One of the highlights of this train ride is passing by a dragon fruit garden, which offers a unique sight of green cacti and red fruits.

Price of a train from Ho Chi Minh City To Binh Thuan: The ticket fare for this route is INR 1,206.14 (VND 353,914.32)

Sapa To Fansipan

The train route from the town of Sapa to the peak of Fansipan is an incredibly unforgettable experience. It is Vietnam's longest mountain train ride, covering a distance of nine km in about 20 minutes and climbing up to an altitude of 3,143 m above sea level. The route offers breathtaking views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, the Muong Hoa valley, and the terraced rice fields. You can take a cable car or hike to reach the summit at Fansipan station. Once at the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and visit some spiritual sites such as temples and statues.

Price of a train from Sapa To Fansipan: You can get a ride on this train route for INR 415.90 (VND 122,072.20).

This story was first published on October 6, 2023; and it has since been updated.