Experiencing Vietnam by Overnight Sleeper Train: Our Journey from Hanoi to Da Nang
If you’re planning a trip through Vietnam, an overnight sleeper train is an unforgettable way to see the country and immerse yourself in the local culture. My husband, Shayne, and I recently traveled from Hanoi to Da Nang on the Vietnam Railways sleeper train. In this post, I’ll walk you through our experience and share everything you need to know to plan your own journey, from booking the best cabin to making your ride as comfortable as possible.
Why Take the Sleeper Train in Vietnam?
For travelers exploring Vietnam, the sleeper train is an excellent alternative to flights or buses, especially on longer routes like Hanoi to Da Nang. Not only does it save you a night of accommodation costs, but it also gives you a front-row seat to the Vietnamese countryside as you travel south. The experience itself is part of the journey, and it’s a chance to slow down, unwind, and embrace travel in a way that’s unlike any other. Keep reading to see what we loved about it!
Our Experience: From Hanoi to Da Nang
We boarded the train in Hanoi for our 16-hour overnight ride south to Da Nang at 7pm. Our cabin was a private two-person sleeper room, a cozy setup that provided just the right blend of privacy and comfort. There was plenty of storage under the beds for our luggage, as well as a little loft storage space over the door that we didn’t use. We also had a small fold-down table that was loaded with the included food and drinks and had a big picture window that we made good use of. Here’s a look at what our journey was like:
- Sleeping & Relaxing: We boarded the train at 7pm in Da Nang and it was already pretty dark outside. We immediately checked out our cozy bunks, which were fitted with bedding and a small pillow. Despite the motion of the train, we found it surprisingly easy to fall asleep a little later as we drifted through the Vietnamese countryside. We had a great night’s sleep of about 8 hours!
- Passing the Time: When we weren’t sleeping we played cards, streamed a Phoenix Suns basketball game, watched some episodes of shows we had previously downloaded, and even explored a bit of the train. Walking between cars is always fun—you’ll meet other travelers, pass through shared cabin areas, and catch glimpses of life along the tracks. We visited the dining car twice just to hang out and get some ice, but they did have a number of meals available for purchase. There was even a dance party in the dining car at night that we had fun watching.
- Watching the Scenery: As daylight broke, we watched lush green fields, small villages, and winding rivers pass by our window. There’s nothing quite like watching the world go by at a slower pace.
- Stops Along the Way: The train made several stops, and we hopped off briefly at two of them to stretch our legs and breathe in the fresh air. It’s always nice to feel solid ground beneath your feet and to witness the hustle and bustle of train stations across Vietnam. and of course, Shayne had to use this opportunity to grab a couple of Coca Cola Lights!
Booking Your Vietnam Sleeper Train Tickets
Booking a sleeper train in Vietnam is simple if you know where to look and what to expect. Here are our tips to help you secure the perfect cabin:
- Use a Reliable Booking Platform: 12Go Asia is THE trusted platform where you can book Vietnamese train tickets in advance. (We use this for all of our travel in Asia.) You’ll find a simple, user-friendly booking processes that will allow you to choose specific cabin types, as well as see other options for getting to your next destination including trains, buses, limo vans, and flights.
- Choosing the Right Cabin: If you’re traveling with a partner and prefer privacy, look for the two-person VIP cabin option. These are limited and can sell out quickly, especially in high season, so book early if you want a private cabin. The four-person shared cabins are also an option, but they lack the exclusivity and comfort of a private sleeper. I can’t stress enough the importance of double and triple checking that you’ve booked the cabin you want. We met some people that ended up in a 4 person shared cabin and not a 2 person private one.
- Booking Class Levels: Vietnam’s sleeper trains offer different classes, ranging from regular seats, standard four-person shared cabins to luxury two-person private cabins. The VIP two-person cabins, like the one we booked, are more spacious, with padded bunks and a bit more privacy. The ticket price difference is usually worth it for the extra comfort, especially on a long trip.
Tips for a Comfortable Journey
Whether you’re traveling in a private or shared cabin, here are some tips to make your trip as comfortable as possible:
- Bring Entertainment: There was onboard Wi-Fi, but it was not super reliable or strong. We had the best luck with wifi early in the morning when everyone was still sleeping, which was super lucky because this is when we were able to watch the Phoenix Suns basketball game. So load up your devices with downloaded movies, shows, books, and games. I always have my kindle, and Shayne always has his favorite running podcasts downloaded. We always travel with a few different card games (currently Uno and Five Crowns) and had a blast playing while the world zipped by outside.
- Pack Snacks: While our ticket included some basic snacks, drinks, and a breakfast spread of yogurt, juice, rolls, and fruit, we found it helpful to pack some extra treats. Local markets in Hanoi sell all kinds of delicious snacks that are easy to bring on board.
- Bring Hygiene Essentials: The bathrooms on our train car were clean but basic. With two bathrooms shared between six cabins, there can be lines, so pack essentials like hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and your own soap.
- Get Cozy: While the train provides bedding, it can be a bit chilly at night, so consider bringing an extra layer for warmth. Earplugs and an eye mask are also great for blocking out noise and light, especially when the train stops during the night.
- Stretch Your Legs at Stops: If the train stops for a few minutes, take advantage of the chance to step outside and stretch. This is a great way to refresh, take in the atmosphere of the train station, and even snap a few photos.
What to Expect in a 2-Person Sleeper Cabin
A two-person cabin offers a private and more comfortable experience, perfect for couples or solo travelers who prefer some solitude. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
- Comfortable Bunks: Each bunk is outfitted with a pillow, sheet, and blanket. It’s snug but surprisingly comfortable for an overnight journey.
- Limited Storage: There’s some storage space under the bottom bunk and a little loft area over the door, but luggage space is tight. We were able to slide our carry-on size suitcases under the beds and our large checked bags went under the fold down table.
- Basic Amenities: You’ll find a small table for snacks or drinks and a hook for hanging jackets or bags. Each cabin has a door that locks, giving you a sense of security and privacy. There are also several outlets available in the cabin for charging your devices.
The Route: Sights to Enjoy Along the Way
The route from Hanoi to Da Nang is incredibly scenic. As you wind your way south, you’ll pass through lush countryside, coastal stretches, and glimpses of mountain ranges. In the early morning, the view is especially captivating—rice paddies, misty hills, and small towns flashing by as you near central Vietnam.
Pro tip: Keep your camera ready as you approach Da Nang! You’ll see more coastal views along this stretch, and it’s a beautiful sight.
FAQs About Traveling by Sleeper Train in Vietnam
Is there food on board? Yes, most sleeper train tickets include a light meal service, such as breakfast with yogurt, juice, rolls, and fruit, along with occasional beverage service. There is a dining car that services a variety of Vietnamese dishes. For longer trips, you may want to bring extra snacks or meals.
Are bathrooms clean and private? Bathrooms are shared among the cabins and tend to be clean but very basic. Bring your own toiletries and be prepared for limited supplies.
Can you get off the train during stops? Yes, there are stops where you can hop off to stretch your legs. Just be mindful of how long the train is stopped—don’t stray too far!
Final Thoughts
Our overnight sleeper train journey from Hanoi to Da Nang was one of the highlights of our time in Vietnam. Traveling by train not only saved us a night of accommodation but also gave us a unique window into the landscapes and daily life in Vietnam that you just can’t get from a plane. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, an overnight train ride through Vietnam is an adventure worth taking.
If you’re planning your trip and want to know more, or if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at Jetset Petersons. We’re always happy to help fellow travelers embark on their own journeys!
Looking for a hotel in Hanoi or Da Nang? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In Hanoi, we stayed at the Dolce by Wyndham Hanoi Golden Lake. Everything was gold, even the bathtub in our room. It was fancier than where we usually stay, but it was a fun change from staying in an Airbnb. Super friendly service, an amazing breakfast buffet, and a gold rooftop pool you have to see to believe.
In Da Nang, we stayed at this Airbnb because we stayed for a month. At just $30 a night, this 2 bedroom 2 bath condo was a steal! We were able to save money by cooking many of our meals, but there are also 3 amazing in-house restaurants, a rooftop pool, and it’s right across from My Khe beach where you know we spent so much time!
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