1. Why choose the Hanoi - Da Nang train?

A slow but worthwhile experience on the Hanoi – Da Nang train line (Image: collected)

While airplanes and cars remain the two most popular modes of transportation between Hanoi and Da Nang, more and more tourists are choosing the Hanoi - Da Nang train as a unique experience, offering comfort and cost savings. Here are some specific reasons why you should consider the train for this nearly 800km journey.

1.1. Reasonable price, budget-friendly

The price of a Hanoi - Da Nang train ticket currently ranges from 600,000 to 1,300,000 VND, depending on the type of seat and ticket class. Passengers can choose from air-conditioned soft seats, 6-person or 4-person sleeping compartments, or even a VIP compartment with only 2 beds for those who want privacy. Compared to airfare, train tickets are not only cheaper but also less volatile during peak season. In addition, tickets are often sold early, with many promotions or discounts for students, the elderly.

1.2. Convenient services

Compared to long-distance buses, trains offer more spaciousness, less shaking, easier movement, and have toilets and dining areas with full service. Passengers can move between carriages, stretch out comfortably, and won’t be cramped like on a bus. If traveling with young children or the elderly, the train is clearly a safer and more comfortable option.

1.3. Unique “slow” travel experience

In a world where everything is rushed, the journey on the Hanoi - Da Nang train is an invitation to return to slowness and tranquility. With a travel time of 15 to 17 hours, the train gives you the opportunity to savor every moment along the way, instead of just focusing on reaching your destination.

A train journey is more than just a means of transportation; the experience itself becomes a memorable part of the trip. You can read, work, enjoy the scenery, chat with fellow passengers, or simply relax and savor the slow pace of life. For many, the Hanoi Da Nang train not only gets them to Da Nang but also provides a truly fulfilling travel journey from the moment they board.

2. Basic Information about the Hanoi Da Nang Train

Before embarking on your journey, you need to understand the basic information about the Hanoi - Da Nang train to proactively book tickets, choose departure times, and select suitable seating. This section will help you better understand the train system running on the North-Central route, allowing you to choose the best option for your journey.

Trains offer control and peace of mind regarding time, especially suitable for long journeys without rush (Image: collected)

2.1. Schedule and Travel Time

The Hanoi - Da Nang train operates daily with various trips, managed by Vietnam Railways Corporation (VNR). Some popular trains on this route include:

• SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7 (Hanoi → Da Nang direction)

• SE2, SE4, SE6, SE8 (Da Nang → Hanoi direction)

The average travel time ranges from 15 to 17 hours, depending on the train code, number of stops, and type of ticket you choose.

Note:

• Arrival time (+1) means arrival on the following day.

• SE1 and SE3 trains are often highly rated for speed and service, suitable for passengers who want to save time and experience better comfort.

• Schedules may change depending on the time (weekends, Tet holidays…), you should check the specific information on the official website of Vietnam Railways or reputable train ticket agents before booking.

2.2. Ticket prices and seat types on the Hanoi - Da Nang train

Passengers can choose from many different types of seats and sleeping compartments to suit their time, budget and personal needs (Image: collected)

Depending on the type of train, class of seat and booking time, the ticket price for the Hanoi Da Nang train will fluctuate. Below is a reference price table for the types of seats on the Hanoi - Da Nang train route (updated at the beginning of 2025, applicable to popular SE trains). Prices may vary depending on the booking time and train type.

Suggestions for choosing a suitable ticket class:

• Young people, short trips, budget-conscious: soft seat with air conditioning or hard sleeper in a 6-bed compartment.

• Traveling with friends or family: 6-bed or 4-bed sleeper compartment if the budget is more comfortable.

• Elderly people, children: should choose the lower bunk in a 4-bed compartment, avoid a 6-bed compartment.

• Couples, those who want privacy: 2-bed compartment (VIP) if the train has it and can be booked early.

• Should not choose: extra seat (because there is no cushion, no reclining).

3. How to book Hanoi Da Nang train tickets

Booking train tickets from Ha Noi to Da Nang is now very flexible and can be easily done online or directly at the station. However, to choose a good seat, a good price and the desired departure time, you need to understand the booking steps and important notes below.

The train journey connecting Ha Noi and Da Nang is a characteristic part of the North-South railway network, connecting throughout the regions (Image: collected)

3.1. Booking online via the official website

This is the most popular and convenient way today, especially suitable for busy people or those who do not live near the station. The online booking steps are as follows:

• Access the official website of Vietnam Railways: https://dsvn.vn or https://vetau.com.vn

• Enter trip information: Departure station (Ha Noi), arrival station (Da Nang), departure date (choose according to plan), number of passengers.

• Choose the train, ticket type and seat: The website will display a list of suitable trips for the date you choose, along with departure time - arrival time, ticket price and seating chart.

• Enter passenger information: Full name, citizen identification number, year of birth, contact phone number.

• Pay for the ticket: You can pay by ATM card, credit card, e-wallet (Momo, VNPAY, ZaloPay...). After successful payment, you will receive the ticket code via email/SMS.

• How to use the ticket: Bring the e-ticket to the station and scan the code to enter the ticket gate. You don't need to print a paper ticket if you use a smartphone.

3.2. Booking directly at Ha Noi station

If you are not familiar with online booking or want to talk directly with the staff, you can buy tickets at the counter of Ha Noi station (B station) - address: 120 Le Duan, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi.

Opening hours:

• Weekdays, from 7:00 to 20:00, including weekends and holidays.

When buying tickets, you need to bring:

• Citizen Identity Card (if buying tickets for others, accurate personal information is needed)

• Cash or card for payment

Note:

• During peak season (Tet, summer, holidays on April 30, September 2…), it is advisable to arrive at least 7-10 days in advance to secure good tickets.

• If buying sleeping berth tickets, inquire about upper, middle, and lower berths to suit your needs.

3.3. Booking tickets through agents, apps, and hotline

In addition to official channels, you can also book Hanoi-Da Nang train tickets through:

• E-wallet apps: Momo, ZaloPay, VNPAY

• Reputable train ticket agents: such as Vetauonline, Ve Tau Nhanh, VnRail…

• Vietnam Railways Hotline: 1900 0109 (24/7 operation)

Note:

• Only book through official agents, do not transact with strangers on social media to avoid being scammed.

• Some apps may charge additional service fees (from 10,000 – 20,000 VND), check carefully before payment.

4. Experience preparing for the trip

Although the Hanoi-Da Nang train is a comfortable and less stressful mode of transportation, to ensure a truly comfortable and smooth journey, you should still prepare thoroughly before departure.

• Book tickets early: If you are traveling during holidays, weekends, or peak tourist season, sleeping berths – especially lower berths or 4-berth compartments – often sell out quickly. Proactively booking tickets about 10-15 days in advance not only helps you choose a good spot but also avoids having to buy additional tickets or uncomfortable seats. In addition, you should prioritize overnight trains like SE1 or SE3 to save time and be able to rest completely on the train.

• Light and easy-to-carry luggage: A small suitcase or backpack is most suitable, which can be placed neatly under the bed or on the shelf. Space on the train is limited, so you should only bring what you really need.

• The train serves meals, but you can bring extra snacks such as bread, biscuits, milk boxes, or easy-to-preserve fruits. Avoid bringing strong-smelling food or food that needs refrigeration as there is no refrigerator on the train.

5. Interesting experiences on the Hanoi-Da Nang train

5.1. Scenic views throughout the journey

One of the highlights of taking the train from Hanoi to Da Nang is that you can observe the scenery along the nearly 800km route. The scenery changes constantly, from the Red River Delta, the midland mountains and hills to the mountain ranges and coastline of Central Vietnam.

Experiencing the scenery from the train window (Image: collected)

In particular, the section through Hai Van Pass is one of the most beautiful parts of the journey. The train runs close to the mountainside, with the blue sea and National Highway 1A below. This is where many tourists choose to take photos or simply sit and admire.

5.2. Take advantage of rest and relaxation time

The average travel time of 15 to 17 hours is an ideal time for you to rest, especially if you are taking overnight trains. Not having to drive or worry about traffic jams gives you a more proactive feeling about your rest time throughout the trip.

If you need a transportation option that is both economical and allows for rest and sightseeing along the way, the Hanoi to Da Nang train is a suitable choice. Although the travel time is quite long, with proper preparation and the right seating choice, you can transform this journey into a memorable part of your trip. Hopefully, the tips in this article will help you have a smoother and more comfortable journey.