The Ultimate Guide to Train Travel in Vietnam for Singaporeans

If you’re a Singaporean traveller looking to explore Vietnam, hopping on a train might just be the best way to take in all the beauty this country has to offer. With panoramic views, comfy seats, and the chance to meet fellow travellers, train journeys in Vietnam are as much about the adventure as they are about the destination.

Whether you’re exploring the bustling cities or winding through the countryside, the train offers a unique way to experience this vibrant country. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make your Vietnam train travel experience unforgettable!

Also read: A Guide to Sapa, Vietnam: Southeast Asia’s Very Own Switzerland

1. The Reunification Express: Vietnam’s Most Scenic Train Journey

Vietnam’s iconic North-South railway, also known as the Reunification Express, stretches a whopping 1,726 km from Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south. This historical train journey connects some of the country’s most famous cities, including Hue, Da Nang, and Hanoi. Completed during the French colonial era, the train travels through lush green landscapes, beaches, and dramatic mountain ranges. Although the trip can take up to 38 hours (so pack a book and your snacks), it’s undoubtedly one of the best ways to see Vietnam from the comfort of your seat.

TripZilla Tip: The scenic stretch between Da Nang and Hue is a must. The train weaves along the Hai Van Pass, offering stunning coastal views that will make your Instagram feed pop!

2. Choosing Your Train Seat: Comfort is Key

When booking your tickets, you’ll have several options for how you want to travel. The most common seating options include:

• Soft Seats: If you’re travelling in the day, these economy-class seats are comfy and come with decent legroom. You’ll be able to relax, watch the scenery whiz by, and even recline if you feel like a nap.
• Sleeper Six-Bed: For longer journeys, you can opt for a sleeper cabin with six bunks. It’s cosy, but you’ll need to be agile if you’re climbing to the top bunk. It’s the cheapest way to travel, but be prepared for some wobbly moments when getting in and out of bed.
• Sleeper Four-Bed: If you want more space and headroom, these four-berth cabins are a better option. The lower bunks are perfect if you don’t want to scramble up to the top one, and they feel a bit more private.

3. Booking Your Tickets: Plan Ahead

Train tickets in Vietnam are straightforward but do sell out, especially for popular routes. While you don’t get discounts for booking in advance, it’s still a good idea to secure your seat or bed early, especially during peak travel seasons.

You can easily book tickets online through sites like dsvn.vn or Baolau. Keep in mind that prices are fixed, and each passenger gets an allocated seat or bed number. No need to worry about scrambling for a place!

TripZilla Tip: If you’re travelling for the first time, it’s worth using Baolau for a more user-friendly booking experience.

4. Amenities and What to Expect on Board

Train travel in Vietnam is a bit old school, but that’s all part of the charm. Here’s what you can expect onboard:

• Meals: Forget fancy dining cars. On long-distance trains, meals are served by a trolley that rolls through at designated meal times. Expect a simple offering of rice, meat (usually pork), and some soup: Don’t worry, it’s tasty and affordable (about 50,000 VND or S$2.49).
• Toilets: Yes, there are toilets, but come prepared with your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser, just in case. The facilities are basic, but they do the job.
• Power Outlets: Each seat or bed has a power outlet, so you can charge your devices as you soak in the views. Just make sure to bring a power bank for backup if you plan to use your phone a lot.
• No Wi-Fi: Forget about staying connected with Wi-Fi: Vietnam’s trains are old school. But hey, it’s the perfect excuse to disconnect and enjoy the ride!

TripZilla Tip: Bring your own snacks and drinks for the journey, especially if you have dietary restrictions or if you’re not a fan of the on-board meal options.

Hop on the Train and Experience Vietnam Like Never Before

Train travel in Vietnam offers a delightful blend of comfort, convenience, and some of the best scenic views you’ll find in Southeast Asia. From the historical Reunification Express to short jaunts like Hanoi to Ninh Binh, every train ride is an adventure waiting to happen. Whether you’re heading to Ho Chi Minh City or hopping on a quick trip to Sapa, the train is a unique and unforgettable way to explore Vietnam.

For Singaporeans planning a visit to this fascinating country, train travel offers a relaxed and scenic option to discover more of Vietnam’s rich culture and landscapes. So, book your tickets, sit back, and let the train take you on a journey through one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting countries! Choo-choo!

Also read: Am Phu Cave: Vietnam’s Own Haw Par Villa