How To Travel In Ho Chi Minh City By Train: Useful Info For Visitors

• Useful Info

Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City by train is not only a practical option but also an unforgettable experience. In this post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know—from train routes and ticket booking to what to expect onboard and how to get around once you arrive.

1. Why Choose Train Travel to Ho Chi Minh City?

Scenic Experience and Local Culture

Unlike flights that zip over the country, traveling by train lets you witness Vietnam’s countryside up close. You’ll pass through rice paddies, coastal towns, and bustling local stations—offering a glimpse of real, everyday life that many tourists miss.

Budget-Friendly Alternative to Flights

Train tickets are generally more affordable than domestic flights, especially when booked in advance. It’s an excellent option for backpackers or families traveling on a budget without sacrificing comfort or safety.

The price of train ticket range from 180.000 VND to 1.200.000 VND/person (7.2 to 48 USD) depending on your routes.

Accessibility from Major Cities

Ho Chi Minh City is the final stop on Vietnam’s North–South railway, making it accessible from almost every major city—Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and more. With frequent departures and a variety of services, train travel fits most schedules.

2. Train Routes to Ho Chi Minh City

The main railway in Vietnam is the North–South Reunification Express, stretching over 1,700 kilometers from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. The entire journey takes around 30–35 hours, but you can also board at many cities in between for shorter trips.

Popular Departure Points: Da Nang, Nha Trang, Hue

If a 30-hour journey sounds long, consider boarding from Da Nang (17 hours), Nha Trang (8 hours), or Hue (21 hours). These popular tourist cities offer scenic routes and more manageable travel times.

Estimated Travel Times and Distances

Here’s a quick guide to estimated train durations:

• Hanoi to HCMC: ~33 hours
• Hue to HCMC: ~21 hours
• Da Nang to HCMC: ~17 hours
• Nha Trang to HCMC: ~8 hours

3. Types of Train Services and Seating Options

Soft Seat vs. Sleeper Berths

Vietnamese trains offer a range of seating: soft seats (reclining, padded) and sleeper berths (soft or hard beds). For long trips, soft sleeper cabins with four berths are the most comfortable.

Air-Conditioned vs. Fan Coaches

Most tourist-friendly trains are air-conditioned, ensuring a more comfortable ride. However, cheaper local trains may use fan-only coaches—less ideal for the southern heat.

Reunification Express vs. SE Trains

“SE” trains (SE1, SE2, etc.) are faster and more modern than the older TN trains. If comfort and speed matter, opt for the SE services, especially SE3 and SE4, known for being clean and punctual.

4. How to Book Train Tickets

Online Booking Platforms

Book easily via platforms like Vietnam Railways, 12Go Asia, or third-party travel apps. These sites often support English and allow e-ticketing.

Buying Tickets at the Station

Prefer buying in person? Head to any major train station ticket counter. Staff may speak limited English, so it’s helpful to write down your destination and preferred time.

Recommended Ticket Classes for Tourists

Most international travelers prefer soft sleepers with A/C, especially for overnight journeys. These cabins provide privacy, comfort, and relative quiet compared to cheaper options.

5. What to Expect During the Journey

Onboard Amenities and Food Services

Most long-haul trains offer basic amenities like hot water, toilets, and food carts serving rice dishes, instant noodles, and drinks. Bring snacks, bottled water, and maybe a neck pillow.

Luggage Allowance and Tips

You can bring a medium-sized suitcase or backpack without extra fees. Keep valuables with you, and consider using a small chain or lock for overnight trips.

Safety and Cleanliness

Vietnamese trains are generally safe. The soft sleeper cabins are the cleanest, while lower-tier classes can be dusty or crowded. Use hand sanitizer and pack tissues just in case.

6. Arriving at Ho Chi Minh City Railway Station

Location and Nearby Attractions

Ho Chi Minh City’s main train station, Ga Sài Gòn, is located in District 3, just 10–15 minutes by taxi from Ben Thanh Market or District 1. It’s a convenient starting point for exploring the city.

Transportation from the Station to the City Center

Grab (ride-hailing app), taxis, or even buses can get you downtown quickly. Expect to pay around 50,000–70,000 VND (~$2–3 USD) for a ride to central Saigon.

7. Tips for a Smooth Train Trip in Vietnam

Best Time to Travel by Train

Avoid public holidays like Tet (Lunar New Year), when trains are packed. Dry season (December to April) offers the most comfortable conditions.

Language Tips and Local Etiquette

Basic Vietnamese phrases like “Xin chào” (Hello) and “Cảm ơn” (Thank you) go a long way. Smile, be patient, and respect shared spaces on the train.

Staying Connected: Wi-Fi and SIM Cards

Wi-Fi is not always reliable on trains, so buy a local SIM card with data (Viettel or Mobifone) before boarding. You’ll stay connected throughout most of the route.