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Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train: The best guide for travelers

11/10/2025

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The journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train offers travelers an authentic Vietnamese adventure. From ticket bookings to onboard amenities, this detailed guide covers all essentials for navigating Vietnam’s famous north-to-south railway successfully.

1. Pros & cons of traveling by the Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City train
2. Guide for traveling from Hanoi to Saigon by train
- 2.1. Departure and arrival
- 2.2. Schedule and fare
3. Booking tips for the Hanoi to Saigon train
FAQs about the Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City train

1. Pros & cons of traveling by the Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City train

The distance from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train is 1,726 kilometers, with an average Hanoi to Saigon train time of 33 hours. This journey connects Vietnam’s two largest cities through diverse landscapes.

The railway journey from Hanoi to HCMC is Vietnam’s most epic train ride (Source: Collected)

The train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City offers spectacular scenery that flights cannot provide, including mountains, rice fields, and coastal plains. The experience allows cultural immersion with locals, onboard dining, and a relaxed travel pace. Families benefit from significant savings as children under 6 can get on the train free of charge.

Disadvantages center on the significant time investment that takes two full days from itineraries. Limited scheduling flexibility with only a few daily departures contrasts sharply with hourly flights. Comfort levels depend heavily on seat class.

Check out: Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting? Top 10+ reasons to go

2. Guide for traveling from Hanoi to Saigon by train

2.1. Departure and arrival

Your journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train begins at Hanoi Railway Station. Located at 120 Le Duan Street, Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam Ward, it is just 2 kilometers away from Hoan Kiem Lake. From the lake, follow Ba Trieu Street south and turn right onto Tran Hung Dao Street. The station lies at the end of this street. The train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City arrives at Saigon Railway Station, located at 1 Nguyen Thong Street, Nhieu Loc Ward.

2.2. Schedule and fare

The journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train offers several daily departures with varying cabin types ranging from seats to sleepers. The corresponding price points cater to budget-conscious and luxury travelers alike.

Train number	Duration	Fare (VND)
SE1	32 hours 55 minutes	1,163,000 – 3,614,000
SE3	33 hours 55 minutes	1,130,000 – 1,992,000
SE5	35 hours 25 minutes	1,080,000 – 3,448,000
SE7	35 hours 35 minutes	1,100,000 – 3,679,000
SE9	38 hours 50 minutes	998,000 – 1,673,000

*This information is for reference only. Visit the official website of Vietnam Railways for accurate updates on the train schedules and ticket prices.

The train departs from Hanoi Railway Station and arrives at Saigon Railway Station (Source: Collected)

Read more: North and South Vietnam map for first-time travelers

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3. Booking tips for the Hanoi to Saigon train

The Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train tickets are available through the official website of Vietnam Railways (dsvn.vn), train stations, or authorized agencies. Booking online through the official website or e-wallet mobile apps offers the greatest convenience.

Here are some essential tips:

When to travel

Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh night trains save hotel costs and maximize rest time, while day trains offer scenic views.
Mid-week departures are usually cheaper than those on weekends or holidays.

Pre-departure preparation

Early arrival of 30 minutes is recommended, as the trains maintain punctual schedules.
Car locations are marked on platform posts to avoid luggage-laden walks between cars.

Seat classes on the Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City train

6-berth sleeper (BNL): 6-bed compartments with 3 tiers and thin mattresses
4-berth sleeper (ANL): 4-bed compartments with 2 tiers and thick mattresses
Soft seat (NM)/Air-conditioned soft seat (NML): Cushioned seats that recline 15 degrees with air conditioning

Motion comfort guidelines

Cars in the middle and seats in the center provide maximum stability.
Forward-facing seats prevent sensory conflicts.
Window seats offer open views.
Lower bunks in sleeper cars minimize swaying sensations.

Booking tips & discounts

Early booking (10-40 days in advance) provides 5-15% savings plus better seat selection.
Additional discounts include birthday travels (5% extra), seniors (15%), children aged 6-10 (25%), and groups of 5+ (2-14%).
Round-trip tickets save 5-10% on return journeys.

Going from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train? Book early to enjoy better deals (Source: Collected)

Read more: Ho Chi Minh City travel tips: 7 things to keep in mind

FAQs about the Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City train

How far is it by train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City?

The Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh train distance is 1,726 kilometers.

How long does the train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City take?

The travel time ranges from 32 to 36 hours.

What types of seats and berths are available on the Hanoi to Saigon train?

You can choose between soft seats, 6-berth sleepers, and 4-berth sleepers.

How much does a Hanoi to Saigon train ticket cost?

The Hanoi to Saigon train cost averages 1,456,000 VND (~$55.2), varying by seat class.

Is the train to Saigon from Hanoi comfortable for such a long journey?

Comfort levels are quite good, particularly for soft sleeper cabins that provide additional space and privacy for the extended journey.

What can I see along the way on the Hanoi to Saigon train?

Going from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train allows you to enjoy views of the coasts, mountains, rice fields, and much more.

Can I break the train journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City into stops?

Yes. Multi-segment tickets allow stops in cities like Hue, Da Nang, or Nha Trang.

Are meals available on the train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City?

Onboard food and drinks are available, and many passengers can bring personal snacks.

Is it better to take the train or fly between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City?

Flying is much faster (2 hours), while trains offer scenic views.

How do I get around Ho Chi Minh City after arriving by train?

From Saigon Railway Station (3 km away from the city center), you can use taxis, ride-hailing services like Xanh SM, or buses to reach downtown.

The Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train journey unfolds like a moving postcard (Source: Collected)

Read more: Ho Chi Minh City map: A compass for first-time tourists

Going from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train offers an unforgettable way to experience Vietnam’s diverse landscapes. While requiring time investment, this epic railway adventure provides scenic beauty, authentic interactions, and memories that flights simply cannot match, making it perfect for travelers seeking genuine Vietnamese experiences.

After arriving in Ho Chi Minh City, treat yourself to incredible attractions at Grand Park. This expansive entertainment complex provides thrilling games, spectacular shows, and unforgettable activities that complement your adventure with modern excitement.

Grand Park, the premier entertainment complex in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City

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Your trip in Vietnam extends beyond the Hanoi – Saigon train journey, to spectacular destinations like Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, and Hoi An. In those destinations, the entertainment complexes of VinWonders offer exciting attractions and family-friendly fun. You can also enhance your trip with exceptional hospitality at the beachfront resorts and city hotels of Vinpearl, which provide world-class comforts.