Vietnam Train Tours – 2 Award-Winning Journeys to Experience in 2026-2027

Vietnam is a country best experienced at a slower pace. Beyond its bustling cities, historic landmarks and beautiful beaches, the landscape unfolds through emerald rice fields, traditional villages, forested mountains and a coastline where the sea meets dramatic mountain passes. While flights and private transfers make it easy to travel between destinations, there is another way to discover the country: by train.

For travellers who want to see more of Vietnam between destinations, Vietnam train tours offer a distinctive combination of scenery, cultural discovery and relaxed travel. Rather than treating transportation as time spent getting from one place to another, a scenic rail journey turns the journey itself into part of the holiday.

This experience has received international recognition. In October 2026, Vietnam’s Central Heritage Connection train between Hue and Da Nang ranked 10th, while The Vietage by Anantara ranked 14th in Condé Nast Traveller’s The Best Train Trips in the World: 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, according to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism.

The two journeys appeal to different travel styles. The Central Heritage Connection offers an accessible way to experience the spectacular landscapes and cultural heritage of central Vietnam. The Vietage, meanwhile, brings a more exclusive atmosphere to rail travel, with a small number of passengers, gourmet dining and attentive onboard service.

If you are also planning to explore the capital, discover our Hanoi tours for more ways to experience the city’s history, local culture and everyday life.

Why Choose Vietnam Train Tours for Your Next Holiday?

Vietnam offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes within a relatively long, narrow stretch of land. Travelling by train allows you to experience these changing environments in a way that can be difficult to appreciate from an airport or the window of a fast-moving vehicle.

A journey through central Vietnam, for example, can take you from the historic streets of Hue towards the coastline of Lang Co, across the forested Hai Van Pass and into the modern seaside city of Da Nang. Further south, railway routes pass agricultural landscapes, rural settlements and coastal scenery connecting destinations such as Quy Nhon and Nha Trang.

For many international visitors, this gradual change of scenery is one of the main attractions of Vietnam scenic train tours.

Experience Vietnam Beyond Its Famous Attractions

Vietnam’s most famous destinations are often associated with specific landmarks: the Imperial City in Hue, the Golden Bridge near Da Nang, the ancient streets of Hoi An or the beaches of Nha Trang.

A train journey reveals the landscapes between these destinations.

From your window, you may see fishing communities along the coast, rice fields stretching towards distant hills, small railway stations and villages that rarely feature in a conventional sightseeing itinerary.

These views offer a broader perspective on the country. They show how Vietnam’s geography connects its cities and how everyday life continues beyond the places most visitors come to see.

Enjoy a More Relaxed Way to Travel

For travellers who prefer comfort and a measured pace, rail travel can be a welcome alternative to repeated airport transfers and road journeys.

On a scenic route, you can settle into your seat, watch the landscape change and enjoy the experience without having to navigate unfamiliar roads.

Different railway products offer different levels of comfort. The Central Heritage Connection focuses on the scenery and cultural atmosphere of a relatively short journey, while The Vietage offers a premium onboard experience with dining and personalised hospitality.

Choosing between them depends on whether your priority is an accessible scenic journey, a luxury experience or a combination of both.

Combine Rail Travel with Culture, Food and Local Experiences

The appeal of Vietnam’s railway journeys extends beyond the scenery.

The Central Heritage Connection includes a community carriage designed for cultural and local experiences, including traditional music and dance programmes. The Vietage takes a different approach, combining the journey with carefully prepared food, selected beverages and attentive service.

These experiences allow travellers to discover Vietnam through more than its landscapes. They also create opportunities to enjoy local culture and cuisine while moving between destinations.

For couples, independent travellers and visitors planning a more comfortable holiday, this combination can make rail travel a memorable part of a wider Vietnam itinerary.

1. Vietnam Central Heritage Connection: A Scenic Train Journey from Hue to Da Nang

The Vietnam Central Heritage Connection, also known as the Connecting Central Heritage tourist train, is one of the most appealing options for travellers who want to experience Vietnam’s railway scenery without committing to a long-distance journey.

Operating between Hue and Da Nang, the train follows a route known for its coastal views, mountain landscapes and connections to two of central Vietnam’s most important destinations.

Introduced in March 2024, the service was designed to make the journey between the two cities an experience in its own right. It subsequently ranked 10th in Condé Nast Traveller’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards for the world’s best train trips, according to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism.

What Makes the Hue–Da Nang Heritage Train Special?

The journey is particularly memorable because the railway passes through landscapes that combine mountains and sea.

Travelling between Hue and Da Nang, passengers can admire views of the Tam Giang–Cau Hai lagoon system, Lang Co Bay and the Hai Van Pass. The scenery changes gradually as the train moves from the flatter coastal areas towards the mountains before descending in the direction of Da Nang.

The Hai Van Pass is one of the defining highlights. Its steep green slopes rise above the coastline, creating dramatic views of the sea and surrounding mountains.

Unlike a road journey, where drivers must concentrate on traffic and winding bends, travelling by train allows you to sit back and appreciate the scenery as it unfolds.

The route is especially appealing to photography enthusiasts, couples and travellers who enjoy scenic transportation as part of their holiday rather than simply as a practical necessity.

Discover Lang Co Bay and the Hai Van Pass

Lang Co is one of the most attractive coastal areas along the route. Its combination of a curved shoreline, blue water and mountainous surroundings creates a striking contrast with the urban environment of Hue and Da Nang.

The railway also offers views of the Hai Van Pass, a mountain route long associated with travel between northern and southern parts of central Vietnam.

The landscape here is one of the main reasons to choose the heritage train over a standard transfer when your schedule allows.

Rather than arriving at your destination as quickly as possible, you have time to appreciate the geographical character of the region.

Passengers should remember that views depend on the direction of travel, weather and seat position. If particular scenery is important to you, check the seating arrangements and ask the operator about the best available option when booking.

Enjoy Cultural Experiences Onboard

The Central Heritage Connection offers more than views from the window.

Its onboard facilities include a community carriage designed for cultural and local experiences. Depending on the programme, passengers may encounter traditional Vietnamese music and dance, creating a connection between the railway journey and the heritage of the region.

The train is therefore a good choice for travellers who want to combine scenery with a light introduction to Vietnamese culture.

It is not a luxury dining train in the same category as The Vietage. Its appeal lies instead in the combination of accessibility, heritage, scenery and cultural atmosphere.

How Long Does the Hue–Da Nang Heritage Train Take?

The journey typically takes around three hours, although the exact duration depends on the scheduled service.

The train operates in both directions, making it possible to travel from Hue to Da Nang or from Da Nang to Hue. Published departure times can change, so check the official timetable for your intended travel date before planning the rest of your itinerary.

For visitors staying in Hue, the journey can form part of a transfer to Da Nang or a wider trip towards Hoi An. For travellers based in Da Nang, it provides an opportunity to explore Hue while enjoying one of the region’s most scenic railway routes.

The best choice depends on where you are staying, whether you plan to continue travelling afterwards and how much time you want to spend at your destination.

Who Should Choose the Central Heritage Connection?

This train is particularly suitable for first-time visitors to central Vietnam, travellers interested in landscapes and heritage, and those who want a memorable rail experience without the cost of a premium luxury service.

It is also a practical option for people combining several destinations in one trip.

If you are travelling between Hue and Da Nang anyway, choosing the heritage train can turn an ordinary transfer into a highlight of your holiday.

2. The Vietage by Anantara: A Luxury Train Experience in Vietnam

For travellers who value privacy, refined dining and attentive service, The Vietage by Anantara offers a different interpretation of scenic rail travel.

Developed by Anantara, this premium railway experience connects destinations along Vietnam’s central and south-central coast. Its principal routes link Da Nang with Quy Nhon and Quy Nhon with Nha Trang, with longer journeys between Da Nang and Nha Trang subject to availability and booking arrangements.

The experience is designed for a small number of passengers. Each carriage accommodates just 12 guests, with six booths offering two window seats each. Facilities include a bar, gourmet dining, a private restroom and an area for head and shoulder treatments.

Rather than focusing on speed, The Vietage places the emphasis on the journey itself.

What Is Included in The Vietage Experience?

The onboard experience combines scenic rail travel with dining and personalised hospitality.

Guests can enjoy refreshments, selected beverages and food prepared as part of the journey. A head and shoulder treatment is also included, adding a wellness element to the experience.

The exact menu and service depend on the route.

On the Da Nang–Quy Nhon journey, guests can enjoy a three-course meal inspired by Vietnamese and French culinary traditions. The Quy Nhon–Nha Trang route features an afternoon tea service with selected local delicacies, Vietnamese cheeses and premium teas. These services are described by the tourism information supplied for the 2026 award announcement and by the operator’s published experience details.

For travellers accustomed to conventional train services, the difference is significant. The experience is closer to a carefully hosted dining journey than a standard transfer.

It is particularly attractive for couples celebrating a special occasion, luxury travellers and visitors who want to include a distinctive experience in a broader Vietnam holiday.

Explore the Scenery Between Da Nang and Quy Nhon

The journey from Da Nang to Quy Nhon takes approximately six hours, including the onboard dining experience.

Along the way, the train passes rural landscapes, rice fields, traditional settlements and coastal mountain scenery. The changing views create a sense of travelling through a quieter side of Vietnam, away from the country’s busiest urban centres.

The slower pace allows guests to enjoy the journey without constantly checking the time or planning the next stop.

For travellers staying in Hoi An or Da Nang, The Vietage can also provide an unusual way to continue south towards Quy Nhon. From there, visitors can explore the region’s beaches, coastal landscapes and Cham heritage.

If you prefer to build your holiday around distinctive experiences rather than simply ticking off destinations, this route is worth considering.

Travel Between Quy Nhon and Nha Trang

The Vietage also connects Quy Nhon and Nha Trang, two coastal destinations with different characters.

Quy Nhon is known for its quieter coastline, beaches and cultural heritage, while Nha Trang is a more established seaside destination with a wider range of resorts, restaurants and leisure activities.

The journey between them takes approximately five hours, with the onboard experience featuring afternoon tea and selected delicacies.

For travellers planning a coastal holiday, this service can make the transition between destinations part of the overall experience.

It also offers an alternative to organising every transfer by road or air, particularly if you value the scenery and onboard service as much as the destination itself.

Who Is The Vietage Best For?

The Vietage is best suited to travellers who consider the journey itself an important part of their holiday.

It can be particularly appealing to couples, honeymooners, luxury travellers and visitors planning a premium itinerary through central Vietnam.

It is less suitable for travellers whose main priority is the lowest possible transport cost. For those visitors, the Central Heritage Connection or standard Vietnam Railways services may be more appropriate.

The choice comes down to what you value most: an affordable scenic connection between two historic cities or a more exclusive experience built around dining, comfort and attentive service.

Vietnam Scenic Train Tours: Which Experience Should You Choose?

Both journeys have earned international recognition, but they serve different purposes.

The Central Heritage Connection is primarily a scenic heritage service between Hue and Da Nang. It offers an accessible way to appreciate the coastline and Hai Van Pass while connecting two important cultural destinations.

The Vietage by Anantara is a luxury rail experience designed around a small passenger capacity, gourmet food and premium onboard service. Its routes extend further along the central coast, connecting Da Nang, Quy Nhon and Nha Trang.

Feature	Central Heritage Connection	The Vietage by Anantara
Main route	Hue–Da Nang	Da Nang–Quy Nhon and Quy Nhon–Nha Trang
Typical journey time	Around 3 hours	Around 5–6 hours, depending on route
Main appeal	Scenery, heritage and cultural experiences	Luxury, dining and personalised service
Travel style	Accessible scenic rail journey	Premium small-group experience
Best for	Cultural travellers and first-time visitors	Luxury travellers and special occasions

If you are travelling between Hue and Da Nang, the Central Heritage Connection is a natural choice because it combines transportation with scenic sightseeing.

If you are building a premium itinerary along the central coast and want the journey to feel like an experience in its own right, The Vietage may be the better fit.

Neither is universally better. The right option depends on your budget, schedule, preferred level of comfort and the destinations you want to visit.

How to Plan a Vietnam Train Tour

A scenic train journey is most enjoyable when it fits naturally into your wider itinerary. Before booking, consider where you will stay before departure, what you want to do after arrival and whether the train’s schedule gives you enough time to enjoy each destination.

Book the Right Route for Your Itinerary

Start by mapping out the destinations you want to visit.

If your holiday includes Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An, the Central Heritage Connection can help link the first two destinations. You can then continue to Hoi An by road from Da Nang.

If your itinerary focuses on central and south-central Vietnam, The Vietage may fit into a route connecting Da Nang, Quy Nhon and Nha Trang.

Avoid booking a train simply because it is famous or has received an award. Consider whether the route makes sense for your travel dates and whether the experience adds something meaningful to your holiday.

Reserve in Advance and Check the Timetable

For both heritage and luxury rail experiences, it is sensible to confirm availability before finalising accommodation and onward transportation.

Departure times can change, and premium services have limited capacity. Check the operator’s current timetable for your chosen date and confirm the station, boarding requirements and arrival arrangements.

For The Vietage, verify the exact route and included services before payment. For the Central Heritage Connection, use the official railway platform to check departure times and available seats.

Choose the Right Seat and Travel Time

Scenery is a major reason to book these journeys, so seat selection and departure time can affect the experience.

For the Central Heritage Connection, consider the direction of travel and ask about seating if you have a preference for coastal views.

For The Vietage, the limited number of window-side booths makes early planning particularly useful.

Weather and light can influence photography, but no particular departure guarantees perfect views. Cloud cover, rain and seasonal conditions can all change the scenery.

Allow Time for Transfers and Sightseeing

A train journey is only one part of the travel day.

Allow enough time to reach the station, complete boarding procedures and arrange onward transportation. If you are connecting to a flight, leave a generous buffer rather than relying on a tight schedule.

You should also consider how much time you want to spend in the destination itself. A scenic train journey can be a highlight, but it should not leave you with too little time to explore the places you have travelled to see.

Combine Train Travel with Local Experiences

One of the best ways to make a rail journey more rewarding is to combine it with experiences at either end of the route.

In Hue, you can explore imperial heritage, traditional architecture and local cuisine. Da Nang offers beaches, city attractions and convenient access to Hoi An. Quy Nhon provides opportunities to explore quieter coastal areas and Cham heritage, while Nha Trang offers a well-developed seaside holiday environment.

By combining rail travel with cultural visits, local food and carefully selected accommodation, you can create a more balanced Vietnam itinerary.

When Is the Best Time to Take a Scenic Train Tour in Vietnam?

Vietnam’s climate varies by region, so the best time for a scenic railway journey depends partly on the route.

Central Vietnam can experience hot, sunny conditions as well as periods of heavy rain. Weather may affect visibility, coastal views and the comfort of activities before or after your journey.

Rather than choosing travel dates based only on a general seasonal recommendation, check the forecast for the destinations on your itinerary.

If you plan to travel during Vietnamese public holidays or peak tourism periods, reserve popular services early where possible. Luxury rail experiences, in particular, have limited passenger capacity.

For international visitors, flexibility is useful. A well-planned itinerary should allow enough time to enjoy the train journey without making the entire holiday dependent on one tightly scheduled connection.

Are Vietnam Train Tours Worth It?

For travellers who appreciate scenery, culture and a slower approach to travel, the answer is yes.

Vietnam’s railway network connects a wide range of landscapes and destinations, but some routes stand out because the journey itself becomes part of the attraction.

The Central Heritage Connection allows you to experience the coast and mountains between Hue and Da Nang while connecting two destinations with rich cultural heritage. The Vietage offers a more exclusive way to travel along the central coast, combining scenic views with gourmet dining and personalised service.

The choice depends on your travel style. You do not need to book the most expensive option to enjoy Vietnam by rail. A relatively short heritage journey can be memorable in its own right, particularly if it fits naturally into your holiday.

For those seeking a more indulgent experience, a luxury train can provide a distinctive way to slow down and enjoy the transition between destinations.

Ultimately, the best Vietnam train tours are those that complement the rest of your trip and give you a reason to enjoy the journey, not just the arrival.

Plan Your Vietnam Holiday with Hanoi Local Tour

Vietnam offers many ways to travel, from discovering Hanoi’s historic streets and local food to exploring central Vietnam’s heritage towns and coastline.

For visitors who want to experience more than the country’s most familiar attractions, scenic rail journeys offer another perspective on its landscapes, culture and regional diversity.

The Central Heritage Connection and The Vietage by Anantara demonstrate two different ways to experience Vietnam by train: one centred on accessible heritage travel, the other on premium hospitality and culinary discovery.

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, consider how a scenic railway journey could fit into your itinerary. Compare routes, check current availability and allow time to explore the destinations along the way.

Explore cultural tours and local experiences through Hanoi Local Tour as you plan your wider Vietnam holiday.

The most memorable journeys are often those that leave enough time to appreciate not only where you are going, but everything you discover along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnam Train Tours

What Are the Best Scenic Train Journeys in Vietnam?

The Hue–Da Nang Central Heritage Connection and The Vietage by Anantara are two notable options. The former offers coastal and mountain scenery alongside cultural experiences, while The Vietage combines premium service, dining and scenic travel along central Vietnam’s coast.

How Do I Book the Hue–Da Nang Heritage Train?

You can check schedules and make reservations through the official Vietnam Railways heritage train booking platform. Confirm the departure time, route, ticket type and boarding details for your travel date.

How Long Is the Hue–Da Nang Heritage Train Journey?

The Central Heritage Connection typically takes around three hours, although the scheduled duration can vary. Check the official timetable before booking and allow additional time for boarding and onward transportation.

How Long Does the Vintage Journey Take?

The journey between Da Nang and Quy Nhon takes approximately six hours, while the Quy Nhon–Nha Trang route takes around five hours. Longer journeys between Da Nang and Nha Trang may be available subject to the operator’s booking arrangements.

Is The Vietage Worth the Price?

The Vietage may be worth considering if you value gourmet dining, personalised service, a small passenger capacity and a distinctive travel experience. It is a premium product, so travellers primarily concerned with transport costs may prefer standard railway services.

Can I Include a Scenic Train Journey in a Vietnam Tour Package?

Yes. A scenic train journey can be incorporated into a broader itinerary that includes accommodation, private transfers, sightseeing and local experiences. Check that the train schedule aligns with your accommodation and onward travel arrangements before confirming the complete itinerary.

When Should I Book Vietnam Train Tours?

Booking in advance is advisable when you have fixed travel dates, particularly for premium services with limited capacity or journeys during busy holiday periods. Always confirm current schedules, availability, fares, and cancellation terms with the relevant operator before paying.