Quick Facts
About This Journey
The Reunification Express (Thong Nhat) is Vietnam's most famous train route, running 1,726 kilometers from Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in the south. The full journey takes approximately 33 hours, though most travelers ride selected sections.
The most scenic stretch is between Hue and Da Nang, where the train climbs over the legendary Hai Van Pass — a mountain route with sweeping views of the South China Sea and lush coastline. The route passes through rice paddies, fishing villages, dense jungle, and Vietnam's most beautiful coastal scenery.
বাংলায় পড়ুন
রিইউনিফিকেশন এক্সপ্রেস ভিয়েতনামের সবচেয়ে বিখ্যাত ট্রেন রুট। হ্যানয় থেকে হো চি মিন সিটি পর্যন্ত ১,৭২৬ কিলোমিটার। সবচেয়ে সুন্দর অংশ হুয়ে থেকে দা নাং পর্যন্ত হাই ভ্যান পাসের মধ্য দিয়ে।
Highlights
- Iconic Hai Van Pass coastal crossing
- 1,726km spanning the length of Vietnam
- Passes through rice paddies and fishing villages
- Incredibly affordable train travel
- Multiple hop-on/hop-off stops possible
Best Time to Visit
February to April for central Vietnam; the whole route is best in spring
How to Book
Book at vietnam-railway.com or through 12go.asia. Soft sleeper berths from about $35-60 for long sections. Hard seat from $25 for the full route. Book 2-3 days ahead for sleepers.
Visit Official Booking Site →Travel Tips
- The Hue-Da Nang section (3 hours) is the most scenic — don't miss it
- Book a soft sleeper (4-berth cabin) for overnight legs
- Bring your own snacks and water — vendor food is limited
- Many travelers do it in sections over multiple days, stopping at Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Nha Trang
- Sit on the left side (heading south) for the best Hai Van Pass views
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Reunification Express?
The full journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City is 1,726km and takes approximately 33 hours. Most travelers ride shorter sections.
What is the best section to ride?
The Hue to Da Nang section (about 3 hours) is universally considered the most scenic, crossing the dramatic Hai Van Pass with ocean views.
How much does it cost?
Hard seat for the full route starts from about $25. Soft sleeper berths for long sections cost $35-60. The popular Hue-Da Nang section is about $5-10.
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