How Long Does It Take to Travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by Train?

The journey by train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City is scenic and enriching, typically taking between 28 to 35 hours and 10 minutes. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip with ease.

Overview of the Train Journey

The railway route between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City stretches for 1,726 kilometers, providing a unique and picturesque journey through the Vietnamese countryside. There are five trains operating daily that traverse this route, offering diverse seat and berth options to cater to different preferences.

Train Routes and Travel Time

Four trains belonging to the Reunification Express offer this journey. You can choose from the SE1, SE3, SE5, and SE7. Travel time varies depending on the train you select. Typically, it ranges from 32 to 35 hours, but the fastest routes can take as little as 28 hours and 10 minutes. For those who prefer to spend more time on the train, the slower routes might be a better choice.

Seat Types and Comfort

The Reunification Express offers a variety of seat types, from standard hard seats to comfortable soft berths. Each carriage and cabin is air-conditioned, ensuring your comfort during the journey. Key seat types include:

Hard Seat: Ideal for brief journeys or those who prefer a more transient experience. Soft Seat: A more comfortable alternative to hard seats, providing a chance to stretch your legs and relax. Hard Berth: With 6 berths per cabin, this type is great for families or groups. Soft Berth: With 4 berths per cabin, this offers a feminine touch and increased comfort for journeys.

Hanoi Station and Ho Chi Minh Station

**Hanoi Station** is the gateway to this magnificent train journey. It has two main entrances: Gate A, located at 120 Le Duan Street, Hoan Kiem District, and typically reserved for south-bound trains, and Gate B, located at Tran Quy Cap Street, Hoan Kiem District, specifically for north-bound trains like the Hanoi-Sapa Train. Both gates offer waiting halls for passengers waiting for their trains.

**Ho Chi Minh Station** is situated in District 10, Nguyen Thong Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. It is the southern terminus of this journey, providing a rich stopping point to explore the vibrant city.

Child Prices for the Train Journeys

Child tickets are available for the Reunification Express train, but under certain conditions:

Children under 3 years old can travel for free. From 3 to under 9 years old and shorter than 1.3 meters, children pay 75% of the adult price for the North-South trains. No child tickets are available for the tourist trains such as Hanoi-Sapa. Children over 9 years old pay 100% of the adult price.

Baggage Allowances

When traveling by train, passengers are allowed to bring carry-on baggage with limitations. Each passenger can carry one piece of baggage weighing no more than 20 kilograms for adults and 10 kilograms for children. The baggage must be wrapped neatly and securely.

These guidelines ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for all passengers.

Route Map

A detailed route map can be found [here] to help you visualize the breathtaking journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. This map provides a visual representation of the scenic route, highlighting key stops and attractions along the way.