What is the experience travelling by train in Vietnam?

Trains in Vietnam offer a scenic way to travel as you can enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside, the coastline and the mountains that you can't get on an airplane. It is a must-do experience but don't expect a smooth journey and spotless conditions.

State of the railway infraestructure

Vietnam's railway network was built during the period of French Indochina and since then it has been upgraded gradually:

• - The train is still a slow mean of transportation, the average speed is around 60–80 km/h.
• - The carriages are old, shake and make noise.
• - The level of cleanliness in the carriages, toilets and cabins is not standard and varies on different trains.
• - Windows can be dusty — so don't count on clear views for photos.

When travelling by train you must prepare for the noise. Outside, the train engine produces a rhythmic clatter as it moves along tracks. Inside, it is not uncommon that passengers speak loudly, talk on their phones or watch videos without headphones.

Recommendation: Wear earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to enjoy peace and silence during your ride. Also, bring tissues or toilet paper, hand sanitizer and wet wipes for hygiene as toilets may not always be clean when you need to use them, especially on longer journeys.

Food and meals on board

You will never go hungry on Vietnam trains. Food carts frequenly move up and down the carriages offering hot meals, instant noodles, fruit, snacks and drinks.

Freshly cooked breakfast, lunch and dinner are also available on longer journeys, but you will need to order in advance. The train staff will take your order, give you a meal ticket and bring your food later when the cart passes by your carriage.

Recommendation: If you cannot wait for the food to come, you can always stand up and make your way to the restaurant car, where you can order food and eat while enjoying the views.

Choose to travel with Vietnam Railways for the authentic local train experience

Vietnam Railways offers basic seats and sleeper cabins.

If you haven't reserved the whole cabin for you and your party, you will probably meet other passengers sharing your space as they embark and disembark along the journey. This presents an opportunity to chat and meet both locals and tourists.

On sleeper cabins, mind that blankets and bed sheets are typically changed at the station of origin, not along the way. As the train stops briefly at intermediate stations, there is no time to change or replace the bedding even if the cabin is used by a different passenger. This means that newly boarded passengers may find the berth already used by a previous passenger.

Recommendation: If you travel on standard train and prefer extra cleanliness and comfort, bring your own pillowcase and blanket.

Choose to travel with a private railway company for a more comfortable experience

Some private railway companies operate their own carriages under their own brand, whereas other companies reserve a number of sleeper cabins in the carriages operated by Vietnam Railways.

Travelling with private railway companies provides a higher level of comfort, with cabins stylishly decorated and cozy soft beds. The carriages are quieter and the toilets are periodically cleaned. The staff on-board is usually trained to assist international passengers and the service also includes bottled water and snacks.

Many private railway companies advertise themselves as "luxury trains", but be aware: some of these companies actually do not operate their own carriages and simply lease sleeper cabins on the cars operated by Vietnam Railways, providing extra cabin amenities, clean bedding and thicker mattresses. Therefore, it's not luxury by international standards as the passenger still rides the standard train — just a cabin with a nicer setup.

Recommendation: If you wish to experience a more comfortable journey, it's worth it to increase your budget and travel with any of the private train companies. The carriages present cleaner cabins and provide better services and higher comfort compared to the standard carriages — especially on overnight journeys.