From over 10 - 59 years old on departure date for Vietnamese citizens. Or foreigners from 10 years old and above.
1
Children
DISCOUNT 25%
From 0 - 10 years old on departure date, under 6 years old sitting with adult (maximum 1 child), 2nd child onwards must purchase additional child ticket
chevron_right
0
ONLY APPLICABLE TO VIETNAMESE CITIZENS
warning
Please select the correct discount-eligible category. Selecting the wrong category will result in an extra charge when boarding the train.
Seniors
DISCOUNT 15%
From 60 years old and above on departure date
chevron_right
0
Student
DISCOUNT 10%
Must bring Student Card when boarding the train
chevron_right
0
Union member
DISCOUNT 5%
Must bring valid Union Member Card when boarding the train
chevron_right
0
EconomyCheapest airfare with standard in-flight service
Premium EconomyReasonable cost with meals and wide legroom space
BusinessPremium flight with priority check in and extra space seats
Traveling by Vietnam Railway isn't just about getting from point A to point B; it's about experiencing the country's soul. The North-South line, often romantically referred to as the "Reunification Express," offers a bucket-list journey that flights simply cannot match. From the limestone karsts of Ninh Binh to the coastal cliffs of the Hai Van Pass, the railway in Vietnam reveals landscapes you'd otherwise miss from 30,000 feet.
Whether you're looking for Vietnam railway tickets, checking the Vietnam railway timetable, or just figuring out the Vietnam railway map, this guide covers everything you need to know. For a seamless experience, you can easily book your official tickets through trusted partners like Vexere, ensuring a hassle-free start to your adventure.
What is Vietnam Railways?
The Vietnam Railway (DSVN - Đường Sắt Việt Nam) is the state-owned operator of the country's rail network. The crown jewel is the North South Railway Vietnam, a 1,726km single-track line connecting Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south. This historic line, originally constructed during the French colonial era and rebuilt following the war, stands as a vital link uniting the two ends of the country, earning it the name Reunification Railway Vietnam.
Is the Railway in Vietnam Safe?
Vietnam Railways offers a classic travel experience that prioritizes steady progress over high-speed transit. While the journey takes longer than flying, it provides a unique opportunity to see the countryside up close. More importantly, train travel is widely regarded as a safer and more stable alternative to road transport, avoiding the often unpredictable traffic conditions on highways.
The "Fear" Resolution: Many travelers debate between trains and sleeper buses. Here is the reality: Vietnam railway safety records are significantly better than road transport. Trains run on dedicated tracks, avoiding the chaotic, unpredictable highway traffic and aggressive driving often encountered on buses. For a stress-free, safe journey where you can actually walk around and stretch your legs, the train is the superior choice.
A Guide to Vietnam Railways Train Types
To meet diverse passenger needs, Vietnam Railways (ĐSVN) operates multiple vietnam railway train categories. Each train type offers different service levels, comfort, and pricing. Most long-distance journeys rely on the vietnam railway sleeper train, which provides a comfortable way to travel overnight. Understanding the differences between these railway train vietnam types helps travelers choose the journey that best fits their time, comfort, and budget.
These are the primary "Reunification Express" trains operating on the main North-South Railway. The "SE" designation signifies "Super Express," indicating these are the fastest and most modern trains in the fleet, connecting major destinations like Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
SE1 / SE2: Considered the premier "first-class" services on the route. These trains feature the newest, most modern carriages, offer the full range of amenities, and are often the only ones to include exclusive VIP 2-berth cabins for maximum privacy and comfort.
SE3 / SE4: These are the most popular overnight services, perfectly timed for long-distance travel. Passengers depart in the evening and arrive the following morning, saving a full day of travel and the cost of a hotel room.
SE5 / SE6 & SE7 / SE8: These are primarily daytime services, perfect for travelers who prioritize sightseeing. They offer the best opportunity to admire Vietnam’s stunning coastal routes and lush countryside scenery as you travel.
2. Premium 5-Star Trains (SE19/20, SE21/22)
To elevate the travel experience on key tourist routes, Vietnam Railways has introduced premium “Five-Star Trains.” These services represent a major upgrade in comfort and amenities. Notable examples include:
SE19/20 (Hanoi to Da Nang Train): A premium overnight service connecting the capital with the central coast, known for its upgraded sleeper cabins and high-quality service.
SE21/SE22 (Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang Train): This route connects the south to Central Vietnam, featuring modern amenities and the popular 180° rotating soft seats.
These trains feature:
Modernized interiors with elegant design and soft lighting.
Clean, redesigned restrooms and improved ventilation systems.
USB charging ports, Wi-Fi, and rotating soft seats (180°) for added comfort
.
3. Sapa & Tourist Trains (SP Trains)
Sapa & Tourist Trains (SP Trains) are sleeper train services running from Hanoi Railway Station to Lao Cai station, the gateway to Sapa, Vietnam. These overnight trains (e.g., SP1, SP2, SP3, SP4) are designed for comfort, with options for private cabins, and are popular for those traveling to the Sapa region for its scenic highlands.
These trains often include carriages operated by private luxury providers alongside the standard VNR carriages. From Lao Cai station, passengers must take a bus or taxi for the final 38-kilometer trip to Sapa town.
Key features of the SP trains:
Route: Hanoi to Lao Cai station.
Duration: Approximately 7 to 9 hours, usually traveling overnight.
Amenities: The trains offer private sleeping cabins, with options varying by train company and cabin type.
"Last mile" travel: After arriving at Lao Cai station, you will need to take a bus or taxi for the final 38-kilometer journey to Sapa town.
Price: Ticket prices vary depending on the cabin type and train company.
Experience: The journey is known for its scenic views of the landscape transforming from urban areas to misty mountains and terraced rice paddies.
4. SE vs. TN Trains: What's the Difference?
When booking your vietnam railway journey, you'll mainly choose between two main types of vietnam railway train: SE and TN. The SE (Special Express) trains are the fast, modern, and more comfortable choice for your railway train vietnam trip, connecting major cities with fewer stops and better amenities like A/C. In contrast, the TN (Thong Nhat) trains are the older, slower, and more basic option, stopping at most local stations along the route.
SE (Express) vs. TN (Slow) Trains
Feature
SE Trains (Express)
TN Trains (Slow)
Speed
Faster express services
Slower services
Stations
Stop at more provincial capitals
Stop at all stations along the line
Age / Quality
Newer and smarter
Older
Amenities
Air-conditioning and Wi-Fi are more common
Amenities like air-conditioning are less common
Both SE and TN trains offer similar ticket classes, including hard seat, soft seat, hard sleeper, and soft sleeper.
Air-conditioning is typically only available on the faster, express SE trains.
The prefix (SE or TN) is followed by a number, with odd numbers indicating a one-way direction and even numbers indicating the other.
Hard-seat class is often crowded and may have a lot of cigarette smoke, especially on older TN trains.
On selected tourist routes, private railway operators also offer luxury carriages, transforming the train journey into a mobile boutique hotel experience — perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Vietnam’s landscapes in style.
Popular Vietnam Railways Train Types
Discover the best train options for your journey
Reunification Express (North–South Line)
SE1 / SE2
Known as the flagship trains on the route, featuring the newest carriages, full amenities, and select VIP 2-berth cabins for premium comfort.
SE3 / SE4
The most popular overnight trains — depart in the evening and arrive the next morning, saving both travel time and hotel costs.
SE5 / SE6 & SE7 / SE8
Daytime services offering the best opportunity to admire Vietnam’s coastal and countryside scenery along the entire journey.
High-Quality Five-Star Trains
SE19 / SE20 (Hanoi ↔ Da Nang)
Upgraded interiors, improved onboard meals, and enhanced comfort — ideal for exploring Vietnam’s most scenic central route.
SE21 / SE22 (Ho Chi Minh City ↔ Da Nang)
Equipped with 180° rotating soft seats, USB charging ports, and free Wi-Fi — offering a truly modern and enjoyable experience.
Regional & Tourist Routes
SP Trains (Hanoi ↔ Lao Cai)
Famous for serving travelers heading to Sapa with comfortable sleeper cabins on convenient overnight journeys.
LP / HP (Hanoi ↔ Hai Phong)
Daily commuter trains connecting the capital and the port city, mainly featuring air-conditioned soft seats.
NA (Hanoi ↔ Vinh)
Connects Hanoi with the North Central region, popular among business and hometown travelers alike.
Book official Vietnam Railways tickets on Vexere to compare SE, TN, and Five-Star trains, check schedules, amenities, and exclusive online fares instantly.
Vietnam Railways Seat & Sleeper Classes Explained
Choosing the right seat is crucial for a comfortable trip on the railway in Vietnam. Vietnam Railways offers a wide range of options, from budget-friendly vietnam railway hard seat options for short trips to comfortable vietnam railway sleeper cabins for overnight journeys.
This guide explains the key differences between each class, including the popular vietnam railway soft berth (4-bed), vietnam railway hard berth (6-bed), and soft seat vietnam railway (or vietnam railway soft seat) carriages, helping you select the perfect ticket for your travel style and budget.
These vietnam railway soft seat options offer an affordable balance between comfort and cost. However, for overnight routes, the inability to fully recline can make sleeping difficult, especially on long trips.
Recent Upgrade: On newer trains like SE21/SE22, Vietnam Railways introduced rotatable soft seats that can swivel 180°, allowing passengers to always face the train’s direction of travel — an excellent solution for those who suffer from motion sickness. This feature is expected to expand across more SE routes in the future.
A vietnam railway hard seat option is also available on some trains, offering a basic wooden bench at the lowest price, suitable only for very short trips.
2. 6-Berth Hard Sleeper Cabin (BNL)
Each cabin contains six berths arranged in three tiers (upper, middle, and lower). This is the most budget-friendly vietnam railway hard berth (sleeping) option, suitable for students, groups, or budget travelers.
Booking an entire cabin for a group of six offers both privacy and fun, but note that the upper and middle berths have limited headroom, making it impossible to sit upright comfortably. Climbing to the upper levels can also be inconvenient for elderly passengers or those with bulky luggage.
3. 4-Berth Soft Sleeper Cabin (ANL)
A premium sleeping option with four berths arranged in two tiers, this is the most comfortable vietam railway soft berth choice. Both upper and lower berths provide enough headroom to sit comfortably and offer better mattress quality.
This setup is perfect for families, couples, or travelers seeking a good night’s sleep during overnight journeys.
Vexere Tip: The 4-berth sleeper cabins on SE1/SE2 and SE3/SE4 are considered the best overall choice for long-distance travel — offering an excellent balance between comfort, privacy, and price.
Comprehensive Comparison of Seat Types on the North–South Train
Class Type
Features & Amenities
Comfort Level
Space & Privacy
Advantages
Disadvantages
Best For
Soft Seat (NM / NML)
Cushioned seats with ~15° recline and air conditioning.
Medium
Low – shared open carriage.
Good balance between price and comfort.
Hard to sleep overnight; can cause back fatigue.
Short–medium journeys (2–8 hours).
6-Berth Sleeper (BNL)
6 berths per cabin, 3 tiers, thin mattress.
Average to Fair
Moderate – shared with 5 others.
Most affordable sleeper option.
Tight space; upper/middle berths cannot sit upright.
Students, backpackers, budget groups.
– Lower Berth
Easy access, next to window.
Good
Low (more activity during daytime).
Convenient, extra luggage space.
May be disturbed by others.
Older passengers, those who enjoy window views.
– Middle Berth
Requires climbing, limited headroom.
Medium
Moderate.
Cheaper than lower berth.
Less comfortable for sitting upright.
Younger, flexible travelers.
– Upper Berth
Highest level, very low ceiling.
Low
Highest privacy.
Quietest, lowest fare.
Hard to climb; can only lie down.
Travelers seeking privacy and quiet.
4-Berth Sleeper (ANL)
4 berths per cabin, 2 tiers, thick mattress.
High
High – shared with 3 others.
Spacious, comfortable, and private.
Higher price, limited availability.
Families, couples, small groups, comfort seekers.
How to Book Vietnam Railways Tickets & Use E-Tickets?
Knowing how to book Vietnam Railways tickets is the first step to your adventure. You have several options, including buying tickets in person at a vietnam railway station, using the official DSVN.vn website, or booking through an official partner. Of these, vietnam railway online booking through official partners like Vexere is now the fastest, most secure, and most convenient method to get your vietnam railway tickets online.
Booking with an official partner like Vexere (or via the Vexere vietnam railway app) allows you to compare all options, secure your preferred seats or sleeper berths weeks in advance, and avoid language barriers or long queues. This guide simplifies the entire process, guiding you from selection to receiving your instant e-ticket.
1. Why Book Vietnam Railways Tickets with Vexere?
Choosing to complete your vietnam railway online booking through Vexere, an official partner of Vietnam Railways, simplifies your travel planning and unlocks several key advantages:
Official Partnership: Guaranteed authentic tickets at the original listed vietnam railway price.
Exclusive Deals: Access to special promotions and discounts you won't find at the station.
Easy Comparison: Clearly compare vietnam railway timetable options, seat types, and prices in one place.
Secure Payment: Multiple secure payment options for local and international travelers.
Instant E-Tickets: Receive your e-ticket with a QR code instantly via the vietnam railway app (Vexere) and email.
Enthusiastic & English Support: Dedicated, enthusiastic customer service with English support for any changes or inquiries.
2. How to Use Vietnam Railways E-Ticket (Boarding Process)?
Vietnam Railways' adoption of e-tickets has made the train travel process much more convenient. Here’s what you need to know:
What is an e-ticket? After completing your booking and payment online, you will receive a "Boarding Pass" as an electronic file (usually a PDF) containing a unique QR code. This is your valid ticket to board the train.
How to use it: You are not required to print your ticket. When booking VNR tickets via Vexere, the e-ticket is sent immediately to your email. Simply save the file to your phone, and present it to the staff for QR code scanning when boarding. This makes managing your ticket easy and eliminates the worry of losing a paper ticket.
3. How to Board at the Station?
Once you have your e-ticket saved on your phone, heading to the vietnam railway station is the final step. The boarding procedure is straightforward, but knowing what to expect will ensure a smooth and stress-free start to your journey. Here are the key steps to follow:
Arrive on Time: It is highly recommended to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. During peak seasons (like holidays) or if you need to collect a physical ticket from the counter, plan to arrive 60 minutes early to avoid any last-minute rush.
Present Documents for Verification: As you head to your platform gate, have your e-ticket (on your phone) and your original ID (Passport) ready. Staff at the platform entrance will scan your ticket's QR code and verify that the name on the ticket matches your ID.
Locate Your Platform & Board: After verification, you'll be allowed onto the platform. Look for signs or ask staff for directions to your specific train. Once you board, find your assigned coach and seat/berth number, which is clearly printed on your ticket.
Keep Tickets Accessible: Keep your ticket and ID handy, even after you are seated. A conductor may perform another check or scan your ticket at various times during the journey.
4. How to Check Schedules and Track Trains?
Planning your trip is easy with accessible schedule information and real-time tracking options. Here’s how you can find the information you need:
Check Schedules: You can check the official vietnam railway schedule, stops, and ticket prices on the dsvn.vn website. However, for a faster and easier search experience, you can use Vexere.com. Our system connects directly to VNR's database, allowing you to view and compare all routes, departure times, and train types side-by-side in just a few clicks, ensuring you see the most accurate, real-time availability.
Real-Time Train Tracking: For live updates, Vietnam Railways also allows passengers to track train locations and estimated arrival times via the Zalo app. To use this feature, visit the dsvn.vn website, find the “Real-Time Train Journey” section, and scan the displayed QR code to connect with the official Vietnam Railways Zalo account.
5. Official Vietnam Railways Booking Channels
Travelers can purchase Vietnam Railways (ĐSVN) train tickets through the following official and trusted channels:
Book via Vexere: Vexere.com, the official partner platform offering a fast, secure, and convenient way to book Vietnam Train tickets online, with exclusive promotions and instant confirmation.
Official VNR Website: dsvn.vn — the official e-ticket portal managed by the Vietnam Railways Corporation.
Customer Support Hotline: 1900.6469 — for inquiries about schedules, fares, or ticket changes.
At the Station: Passengers can also buy tickets directly at railway stations nationwide.
Vietnam Railways Travel Policies and Passenger Guidelines
Before your journey with Vietnam Railways (ĐSVN), it’s important to understand the key travel policies and passenger regulations. From using electronic tickets and managing your baggage to understanding refund rules, discounts, and required documents, this guide provides everything you need to travel smoothly and confidently on Vietnam’s national railway system.
All procedures described below are officially recognized by Vietnam Railways and fully supported when booking through Vexere.com — the official partner of ĐSVN.
1. Ticket Exchange and Refund Policy
Understanding the Vietnam Railways ticket exchange and refund policy is crucial in case your travel plans change. Flexibility is important, and knowing the rules beforehand can save you time and money. Passengers can change or cancel tickets either directly at stations or online via dsvn.vn or Vexere.
When purchasing through Vexere, exchanges and refunds can be processed entirely online. This is a significant convenience that removes the need to visit a station. However, please note that policies, fees, and deadlines vary based on the ticket type (individual vs. group) and how close to the departure time you make the request, as detailed in the table below.
Vietnam Railways Ticket Change and Refund Policy
Ticket Type
Action
Request Time (Before Departure)
Fee
Individual Ticket
Change
≥ 24 hours
20,000 VND
(≈ 0.80 USD) / ticket
Refund
≥ 24 hours
10% of ticket fare
Refund
4 – 24 hours
20% of ticket fare
Refund
< 4 hours
Not refundable
Group Ticket
Change
Not applicable
–
Refund
≥ 72 hours
10% of total fare
Refund
24 – 72 hours
20% of total fare
Note: Regulations may change during holidays or Tet, and do not apply to certain promotional tickets.
2. Luggage and Baggage Regulations
To ensure safety, comfort, and fairness for all passengers, Vietnam Railways has clear baggage regulations. Understanding these rules is essential for a smooth check-in and a hassle-free journey. The policies cover key areas including your free carry-on allowance, checked baggage limits, lists of prohibited items, and specific rules for traveling with pets.
Carry-On: Free up to 20 kg / person, with compact dimensions.
Checked Baggage: Over-weight or bulky items must be checked in for an additional fee. Motorbikes and large packages follow separate freight rules.
Prohibited Items: Explosives, toxic chemicals, weapons, and any goods banned under Vietnamese law.
Pets: Small pets (dogs, cats) are allowed if kept in secure cages, hygienic, and non-disturbing to other passengers. For comfort, consider booking a private 4-berth or 2-berth cabin. Bring pet food, water, and vaccination/health records.
Vietnam Railways Baggage Policy
Type
Maximum Weight
Maximum Size
Notes
Carry-on
20 kg
0.8 m × 0.5 m × 0.4 m (0.16 m³)
Free of charge; excess must be checked.
Checked
75 kg / piece
2.5 m × 0.5 m (0.5 m³)
Subject to handling fee; must be well-packed.
3. Discount Policies for Eligible Passengers
Vietnam Railways offers fare discounts for specific groups (valid ID required). When booking on Vexere, eligible discounts are automatically applied once you enter your passenger information correctly.
Passenger Type
Discount
Children under 6 years
Free (share seat with adult)
Children 6 – 10 years
25 % off
Senior citizens (60 +)
15 % off
Students
10 % off
Other eligible groups (veterans, national heroes, persons with disabilities, etc.)
As per VNR regulations
4. Required Identification Documents
To ensure security and verify passenger information, Vietnam Railways requires all travelers to present valid identification documents. Having the correct, original ID that matches the name on your e-ticket is mandatory for the check-in process. Please review the specific requirements for adults, children, and foreign passengers below.
Adults (14 + years): Present one of the following original documents:
Passport
National ID / Citizen ID (CMND / CCCD)
Driver’s license (car or motorbike)
Armed forces ID or certificate
Press card, Party card, Youth Union card, National Assembly delegate card
Children under 14: No ID required if accompanied by an adult with valid documents. Children 6 – 14 years may present a birth certificate or passport if traveling alone.
Foreign passengers: Must carry a passport or an official diplomatic note confirming identity.
5. Vietnam Railways Membership Program
To reward and provide added value for frequent travelers, Vietnam Railways operates a loyalty membership program. This program allows passengers who regularly choose the train to accumulate points from their ticket purchases and redeem them for valuable benefits on future journeys.
How to Join: You can register for a free member account directly on the official dsvn.vn website.
Earning Points: For every 10,000 VND spent (after discounts), you earn 1 point when booking through official channels or the Vexere app.
Redeeming Points: 1 point is equivalent to 1 VND, which can be used as a discount toward future ticket purchases. (Note: Redemption is not applicable for group tickets or tickets purchased entirely with points.)
Tip from Vexere: When booking your Vietnam Railways e-ticket online, always enter your full legal name and ID number exactly as shown on your identification document to ensure smooth boarding and check-in.
What the Press and International Travelers Say About Vietnam Railways
Vietnam Railways has been receiving increasing recognition from global travelers and international media, not only as a means of transport but as an essential part of the cultural journey across Vietnam.
Global Recognition from Leading Publications
The North–South Reunification Express has captured worldwide attention after being named by Lonely Planet as one of the most incredible train journeys in the world. Experts describe it as “the most atmospheric way to experience Vietnam,” a moving journey that connects history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes — from emerald rice fields to the dramatic beauty of the Hai Van Pass.
The Spirit of Slow Travel
For many international visitors, traveling by train in Vietnam represents the essence of “slow travel.” It offers a chance to observe daily local life, meet fellow travelers, and feel the country’s rhythm at ground level — something no flight can replicate.
The Rise of Premium Rail Experiences
With the launch of high-quality and luxury train services like The Vietage by Anantara, Vietnam Railways has also attracted praise from major media outlets such as CNN. These journeys redefine rail travel in Vietnam — blending classic adventure with world-class comfort and sophistication.
A Journey to Remember
Even on standard routes, passengers often describe their trips as a rewarding adventure. While comfort levels may vary, travelers agree that the true value lies in the authentic experience and the spectacular views only visible from a train window.
Overall, Vietnam Railways is now celebrated internationally as an iconic, emotional, and immersive way to experience Vietnam in full.
Understanding this global appeal, Vexere — as the official partner of Vietnam Railways — is proud to make it easier than ever for both domestic and international travelers to plan, book, and embark on these unforgettable journeys, turning the world’s praise into your own travel story.
Train hot promotions
Save up to 60.000đ when book train ticket for group at Vexere
LƯƠNG VỀ - VI VU TÀU HỎA, GIẢM NGAY 25%
Tet Train Journey - Get up to 250k from Vexere
Online payment offers
Up to 50.000 VND off when paying by ShopeePay Wallet
Tet Holiday 2026
Bus for Lunar New Year 2026: Routes and bus operators are open for sale
Tet Train Journey - Get up to 250k from Vexere
Book Vexere - Get a ticket for Tet. BOOK NOW!
Notes when booking Holiday bus tickets at Vexere
Instructions for booking bus tickets for Holiday
2026 Tet Holiday Schedule: Solar and Lunar Calendar | Plan to hunt for travel tickets during Tet
Bus for New Year 2026: Routes and bus operators are open for sale
