Vietnam’s North-South railway named one of the world’s most scenic routes
DNO - Vietnam’s 1,725-km North - South Train Ride has been recognised by US travel magazine Travel + Leisure as one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys, praised for linking historic cities, pristine beaches and spectacular coastal landscapes.
“And although you'll find stunning routes across the U.S. and Europe, one of the world's most beautiful and underrated train rides is in Vietnam. Enter: the North-South Railway”, the magazine said in its article
Known affectionately as the “Reunification Express”, running between Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City, the railway offers six daily services in each direction, taking travellers through destinations including Hue, Da Nang and Nha Trang.
Tickets can be purchased through Vietnam Railways or third-party booking platforms offering English-language interfaces and international payment options. Travel + Leisure advised travellers to book early as seats often sell out quickly.
“The train departs Ha Noi and, over the course of 30-plus hours, threads past Hue, Da Nang, and Nha Trang with stunning views of rice paddies and sea cliffs along the way before arriving in Ho Chi Minh City. Tickets are sold per leg, so you can ride overnight from Ha Noi to Hue, spend a few days exploring the area, then continue south at your own pace”, Travel + Leisure recommended.
In particular, this US magazine highlights the approximately 2.5-hour Hue-Da Nang segment widely regarded as the most spectacular stretch of the railway.
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Crossing the renowned Hai Van Pass, the train winds along steep cliffs overlooking the sea, delivering panoramic views widely regarded as the most breathtaking on the line.
For overnight travel, passengers can choose four-berth air-conditioned sleeper cabins with mattresses, pillows and lockable doors, while six-berth cabins provide a more budget-friendly alternative.
Traditional Vietnamese meals and snacks are available onboard, although travellers are advised to use a local SIM card as Wi-Fi is not provided.
In particular, Travel + Leisure said Da Nang itself is a fast-growing beach city with a long stretch of My Khe Beach.
For those planning an extended stay, it recommends the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, a luxury clifftop retreat nestled between lush forest and a secluded private beach.