Vietnam Train Timetable 2024: Updated Routes

Ever dreamed of exploring Vietnam's stunning landscapes at a leisurely pace, all while enjoying the comforts of a classic train journey? If so, train travel in Vietnam is the perfect adventure for you. From the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the serene beauty of Nha Trang and the majestic mountains of Sapa, Vietnam's train system offers a unique way to see the country up close. This guide provides the most up-to-date and easy-to-use 2024 Vietnam train timetable, along with insider tips and all the info you need to enjoy your next trip by rail!

1. Vietnam Train Timetable 2024- Major Routes

Searchable Timetable Database

Our database will enable you to filter the train schedule in whatever way necessary. An overnight, sleeper cabin, or daytime-one, finding your preferred train is very easy since you only need to fill in your departure station, arrival station, and dates of travel. We cover everything from luxurious trains like the Violette Express to Vietnamese sleeper trains that are comfortable with air conditioning and cozy bunk beds.

You can use the filter by route to book directly: SE3 train in Vietnam will give you detailed information on how many cabin types you would love to pay for: soft sleeper, hard sleeper; and pricing and availability.

Easy-to-Read Timetable

We are of the view that planning your trip should be easy and stress-free. That is why we display a clear, color-coded Vietnam train timetable to help you navigate your journey. Be it traveling along the famous Reunification Express or hopping onto a regional line, with our tables, tracking is effortless when it comes to departure times, types of trains, and even berth cabin options. For example, if one is planning to take the scenic rail from Hanoi to Da Nang on the SE3 train, he will know exactly what time this train departs and how long it takes.

2. Understanding Vietnam's Train Network

Types of Trains in Vietnam

The different types of trains up for grabs in Vietnam can cater to the needs of every kind of traveler. Here's a breakdown:

• Express Trains (SE): These are the fastest and most comfortable trains. They are suitable for and carry out long routes, such as Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. SE3 is one of the most popular trains in Vietnam, and it is popular for air-conditioned soft sleepers, providing a luxury experience on the train. If you are in search of comfort and speed, then go for the SE series of trains.
• Local Trains (TN): These are trains that stop along the way; thus, they are slower but ideal for regional trips. Ideal for roaming around small towns like Ninh Binh or to travel a shorter distance.
• Tourist Trains (SP): These are the most touristy services, normally running from Hanoi to Sapa amongst other routes. They are targeted at tourists, offering higher quality sleeping cars on the trains, along with improved in-train service. For example, SP1 Vietnamese sleeper trains offer, besides the soft sleeper options, hard sleeper options that will also allow them to travel through mountain areas. 

With each kind of train serving various budgets and traveling preferences, you can tailor your trip to your exact needs with the Vietnam train timetable!

Seat Classes on Vietnamese Trains

Understanding the difference between classes, when choosing your seat or cabin, is cardinal for a comfortable journey.

• Hard Seat: The most basic one, intended to be used for short-distance travel or in low-budget conditions. This seat is not very comfortable for a longer ride.
• Soft Seat: A more comfortable upgrade with cushioned seating, air conditioning, and more legroom, ideal for daytime travel.
• Hard Sleeper: Each cabin is fitted with six bunks and is a cheaper option for an overnight train. Mattresses are thinner, but this can still be a very comfortable way of traveling on longer journeys.
• Soft Sleeper: Very much the overnight train in style, with four berths to a cabin, offering more privacy and thicker mattresses. In case you are booking the SE3 train Vietnam or SP1, this class should be chosen.
• VIP Cabin: A step above the rest, a few trains-like the train SE series a choice of traveling in style in a private two-berth cabin. These are enhanced with upgraded bedding and personal storage, along with other additional amenities that are ideal for a truly comfortable ride.

Onboard Services

Vietnamese trains are well-equipped to make your journey a comfortable and enjoyable one:

• Food and Beverages: All the trains have different kinds of food and drinks on offer availed from the onboard trolley service or from big stations. For longer journeys, for instance, Hanoi to Saigon, set meals are often on sale and served directly into your berth cabin.
• Restrooms: Trains are either equipped with Western or squat toilets, but in either case, they are fairly primitive although regularly scrubbed clean. It is a good idea to always have toilet paper and hand sanitizer with you.
• Other Amenities: Most of the night trains in Vietnam are air-conditioned, and some have electric power outlets and water dispensers to serve hot or cold water at your wish-you can even make instant noodles or coffee during your journey!

3. Planning Your Train Journey

Booking Tickets

Securing your train tickets is easier than ever with the following convenient options:

1. Online Booking: You are to book through the official websites of operators like Vietnam Railways (DSVN) or on some other reliable websites like 12Go.Asia or Baolau. These grant you the opportunity to book seat/berth cabins in advance for a seamless experience.
2. At the Station: You can also buy tickets at train stations, but be sure to arrive early, which is especially important during high travel seasons. Have your passport handy; you'll need it to purchase your tickets.

Choosing the Right Train

When choosing your train, keep in mind the following options:

• Budget: If you are going on a shoestring budget, then a hard seat or hard sleeper would do. If not, then the soft sleeper or VIP cabins are so worth the extra cost of comfort.
• Travel Time: Express trains, which include the SE3 train Vietnam, take less time to cover long distances. For short-distance traveling, it may be wise to travel by local train.
• Comfort: This will greatly make a difference in case you are going by a soft sleeper or luxury options when traveling overnight. The Vietnam train timetable will also help in determining the best option that suits your schedule.

Packing Tips

Following are some comfortable journey essentials you may want to pack:

• Snacks and water: Sure, there are meals available on board, but having your snacks ensures you are covered between the meal services.
• Travel Pillow and Blanket: Useful for longer trips on overnight trains.
• Toiletries: Don't forget items like a toothbrush, wipes, and hand sanitizer to stay fresh during the ride.
• Entertainment: Bring a good book, download movies, or prepare music to keep you company during long rides.

Tips for First-Time Train Travelers

• Navigating Train Stations: The various train stations in Vietnam have the potential to be very chaotic, so you will want to consider allowing yourself a minimum of half an hour before the scheduled departure. Pay attention to signs that indicate the route your train will take and the platform on which you will board, as well as listen for announcements.
• Finding Your Seat: Once aboard the train, attendants can help you find which seat or berth cabin you'll sit in. Always have your ticket with you for verification.
• Train Etiquette: Respect your fellow passengers and, above all, share a sleeper train. Be quiet and do not make excessive noise; clean up after yourself in shared spaces like the bathroom.

4. Conclusion

The following guide to the Vietnam train timetable is going to be your complete guide for an amazing journey through  Vietnam transportation from boarding the famous SE3 train in Vietnam to exploring the most worth-seeing routes to Sapa and Nha Trang, until finding out all the necessary information to make your journey comfortable and unforgettable.