Luxury Trains in Vietnam: A Journey of Sophistication

Did you know that Vietnam boasts some of the most beautiful train journeys in the world? The country, with its spectacular north dotted with rice terraces, its central region lined with bays, passes, and magnificent beaches, and its south where vast fruit fields stretch endlessly, offers breathtaking landscapes. Discovering Vietnam by train is an experience no traveler should miss.

What if you could embark on this adventure aboard a luxury train, enjoying impeccable service and exceptional comfort while admiring the country's wonders? Today, we invite you to board one of Vietnam's most majestic trains, where every journey becomes a unique experience, blending refinement, stunning landscapes, and timeless elegance.

Written by Nhu PHAM (local expert)Updated on 06-01-2025

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Table of contents

1. SJourney: Vietnam's Premier Luxury Train Experience
2. Coastal Wonders of Central Vietnam by Luxury Train Vietage
3. Victoria Express: An Elegant Night Train Between Hanoi and Sapa
4. La Reine: A High-End Experience in the Highlands
5. Trains Rich in Experiences

1. SJourney: Vietnam's Premier Luxury Train Experience

The SJourney redefines train travel in Vietnam through the perfect blend of 1930s Indochina elegance and the finest luxury of today. Being the first luxury train to traverse the country from north to south, guests will experience the ultimate in opulent wooden cabins, plush bedding, en-suite bathrooms, and personalized onboard service as one travels to destinations that are as memorable.

The SJourney is an unforgettable 8-day, 7-night cruise that traverses from the mist-drenched mountains of the North of Vietnam to the sun-kissed shores of the south and includes breathtaking scenery. Iconic destinations en route provide an unparalleled opportunity to discover the essence of Vietnam:

Ninh Binh: Picturesque rice fields framed by majestic karst mountains.
Quang Binh: Home to awe-inspiring caves and pristine nature.
Hue: The imperial city known for its rich cultural heritage and historic temples.
Hoi An: A charming old town illuminated by colorful lanterns.
Nha Trang: Renowned for its idyllic beaches and turquoise waters.
Mui Ne: Famous for golden sand dunes and serene beaches.
Ho Chi Minh City: A vibrant metropolis blending colonial history with modern dynamism.

Every port of call offers opportunities to visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, sample traditional Vietnamese food, and learn about its diverse culture.

sjourney

Onboard Experience

The SJourney converts travel into an art form with its exquisitely crafted interior inspired by romance from old-world elegance, offering world-class amenities.

On board, passengers enjoy gourmet meals prepared by Michelin-starred chefs in an intimate and refined setting. SJourney offers the ultimate in rail luxury, with modern facilities and first-class service, all in an atmosphere that evokes the romance of old-world travel.

sjourney

Travel Details

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Capacity: 30 rooms, accommodating 60 passengers
Price: Starting from 186 million VND per person
Included Services: Full board, cultural excursions, and private transfers

The SJourney is more than transportation; it’s a curated adventure, offering travelers an exclusive window into Vietnam’s beauty, culture, and heritage, all while indulging in the height of luxury.

SJourney

2. Coastal Wonders of Central Vietnam by Luxury Train Vietage

Vietage is a luxury train traversing central Vietnam to give a unique rail experience fusing modern comfort and vistas. Gracing the artsy town of Hoi An to the sleepy seaside town of Quy Nhon and stopping at the lively Nha Trang. A truly lavish journey through the splendid panorama of the land.

*The Vietage, Luxury Train in Central Vietnam*

Influenced by the beauty of Vietnam and classic luxury train travel, the train features six spacious cabins, all outfitted with two reclining seats looking out over land where grassy plains give rise to grand mountains and golden coastline. Passengers can enjoy a stylish bar, fine dining, private toilets, and a relaxation center devoted to head and shoulder wellness treatments.

Directions and timetables:

Da Nang to Quy Nhon route:

Departure: 8:00 a.m.
Arrival in Quy Nhon: 2:03 p.m.
Arrival in Nha Trang: 6:36 p.m.

Route from Nha Trang to Da Nang:

Departure from Nha Trang: 1:59 p.m.
Arrival in Quy Nhon: 6:29 p.m.
Arrival in Da Nang: 00:36 (next day)

*Refined gastronomy in an exceptional setting on The Vietage train*

Service on board is impeccable, with a warm welcome and a complimentary drink. Passengers can relax in their cabin or at the bar while admiring breathtaking scenery, from rice fields to golden beaches, lush green hills and picturesque villages.

The hostesses also distribute a "Discovery Book" to guide you throughout the journey, with fascinating information on the fauna, flora, and cultural and historical aspects of the regions crossed.

Experience Our Luxury Vietnam Tour in 14 Days

3. Victoria Express: An Elegant Night Train Between Hanoi and Sapa

Victoria Express is a luxury train connecting Hanoi to Sapa, offering an exceptional travel experience combining modern comfort and Indochina charm. You will enjoy an elegant wooden cabin with a comfortable bed and quality services on board.

*Victoria Express, the elegant train journey between Hanoi and Sapa*

Before departure, you can relax in the Victoria Lounge, a refined space with plush sofas and fast Wi-Fi. Once on board, a welcome kit awaits you, and the staff will ensure you have an enjoyable journey by pre-ordering your meals and drinks.

The train rolls gently through the night, and in the morning, a delicious breakfast is served just before arrival at Lao Cai train station. From there, you can choose from several excursions, or continue your journey directly to Sapa.

victoria expresss — *The Victoria Express - a comfortable way to reach the Northern Mountains.*

It is a soft train ride through the night, until in the morning a delicious breakfast is served just before the arrival at Lao Cai train station. From here, one can take up a few excursions or continue further to Sapa.

▶️ Good to know: Hanoi - Sapa train timetable

Trains from Hanoi to Sapa (Lao Cai) generally follow the following schedule:

Departure from Hanoi: 22:00
Arrival in Lao Cai (Sapa): 05:55 (the next morning)
Departure from Lao Cai (Sapa): 9:30 p.m.
Arrival in Hanoi: 05:25 (the next morning)

Note: Times may vary slightly depending on the train companies, but in general these times are common to most trains running on this line.

(Get to know about Hanoi to Sapa)

>>> Our practical guide for a successful trip to Sapa

4. La Reine: A High-End Experience in the Highlands

The Queen Train, launched by Vietnam Railways, offers an exceptional travel experience along the Da Lat – Trại Mát line. Inspired by the architecture of Nam Phương Queen’s Palace, this elegant train combines the sophistication of Indochina with the charm of French design, creating a refined and historical ambiance. The train’s interiors feature period lighting, elegant furniture, and modern comforts such as free Wi-Fi and air conditioning.

With 36 plush seats, passengers can relax and enjoy the picturesque views of Da Lat’s rolling hills. An exclusive VIP section offers additional privacy and comfort, making it perfect for families or those seeking a more intimate experience.

This luxurious journey is enhanced with delightful extras such as live violin concerts and local treats like artichoke tea and light meals. The La Reine train transforms a simple commute into a luxurious escape, blending relaxation, culture, and discovery. It’s more than a mode of transport—it’s a sensory journey that creates lasting memories in the enchanting highlands of Da Lat.

la reine 3

>>> Learn more about: Train Travel in Vietnam: COMPLETE Guide, Itineraries, and Tips.

5. Trains Rich in Experiences

The Revolution Express: The most beautiful train ride between Da Nang and Hue

The Revolution Express offers a two-hour journey aboard meticulously restored 1960s steam locomotives, blending nostalgia with elegance. This iconic train traverses the breathtaking Hai Van Pass, connecting Da Nang to Hue along one of the world’s most spectacular railway routes.

Scheduled to launch in 2025, this ambitious project aims to redefine rail tourism in Vietnam, combining the charm of a bygone era with exceptional natural landscapes. It promises an unforgettable experience for heritage enthusiasts and travelers seeking extraordinary journeys.

Hanoi - Thai Nguyen Tourist Train: Discovering Tea Culture

The Hanoi - Thái Nguyên train is not classified as a luxury service but is rich in cultural experiences. This 2.5-hour journey from Hanoi to Vietnam’s renowned tea region offers passengers the chance to immerse themselves in local traditions.

hanoi tourist train — *Hanoi - Thai Nguyen Tourist Train: Discovering Tea Culture*

Onboard, travelers can listen to the enchanting Then songs performed by Tày girls in traditional attire while enjoying Thái tea accompanied by regional delicacies. Following its inaugural trip in late 2024, authorities plan to assess the service model and explore its potential for regular operations, blending rail travel with the celebration of local heritage.

Our Last Words

Traveling on these prestigious trains is not just a simple journey, but a real adventure through the most fascinating landscapes of Vietnam. From the Victoria Express with its old-world charms to the SJourney that connects the north to the south in unparalleled comfort, passing through The Vietage and La Reine , each train offers a unique experience, mixing elegance and discovery. These journeys are not just trips, but moments of escape, where luxury and the beauty of Vietnam meet to create lasting memories. Traveling by train in Vietnam thus becomes an essential experience for those who wish to explore the country with refinement and comfort.