Have you ever dreamed of traveling through Vietnam by train, watching the gorgeous landscapes pass by your window? If so, the train journey from Da Nang to Hanoi is an excellent option to consider. At anbangseasidevillage.com, we love traveling by train in Vietnam. The views are stunning, and it’s a comfortable way to get around the country. Here’s our guide to taking the train from Da Nang to Hanoi, including tips on booking tickets, train times, scenery you’ll see along the way, and things to do in Hanoi when you arrive.
Overview of the Train Route from Da Nang to Hanoi
The train journey from Da Nang to Hanoi covers a distance of about 780 miles (1255 km) and takes around 19 hours direct. There are multiple trains that run this route each day. It passes through some incredibly beautiful scenery along the way, including beaches, mountains, rivers, rice paddies, and rural villages. Some of the major stops include Hue, Vinh, and Ninh Binh.
The route hugs the coastline for much of the way, passing by gorgeous beaches and emerald waters. Parts of the journey take you through the lush mountainous highlands of central Vietnam. Further north, you’ll catch views of the striking limestone karst landscapes that Vietnam is famous for.
All in all, the train ride from Da Nang to Hanoi is a visual feast for the eyes and a great way to see the diversity of Vietnam’s landscapes. Keep reading for more details on booking tickets, train times, and what to see along the way.
Booking Tickets for the Train from Da Nang to Hanoi
There are a few options for booking train tickets for travel between Da Nang and Hanoi. We recommend booking directly through the official Vietnam Railways website. Here you can view the train schedule, check seat availability, and purchase e-tickets online.
Another option is to book through a travel agency or hotel in Vietnam. They can purchase tickets on your behalf for a small fee. Finally, you can buy tickets in person at the train stations in Da Nang or Hanoi. Give yourself a few days’ buffer in case tickets sell out for a particular train.
Onboard, there are four ticket classes to choose from: hard sleeper, soft sleeper, hard seat, and soft seat. Hard sleepers have bunk beds in an open carriage, while soft sleepers have beds in a closed compartment. Seats are available in air-conditioned or non-air conditioned carriages. For long journeys like this, we recommend booking a sleeper.
Train Times from Da Nang to Hanoi
There are multiple trains running daily between Da Nang and Hanoi in each direction. Here is an overview of departure and arrival times:
- From Da Nang: Trains depart at 6:00, 18:20, and 19:25, taking around 18-19 hours to reach Hanoi.
- From Hanoi: Trains depart at 6:10, 18:30, and 21:15, also taking around 18-19 hours to reach Da Nang.
Keep in mind that delays can occur, so it’s best to allow some buffer time when planning onward travel connections from Hanoi. Also, pay attention to whether the train time is for the SE1 line (slower local trains) or SE3 line (faster express trains).
Top Scenery and Sights Along the Da Nang to Hanoi Train Route
One of the best parts of traveling by train in Vietnam is getting to see the incredible landscapes the country has to offer. Here are some top sights and scenery to enjoy along the Da Nang to Hanoi route:
- Da Nang coastline – Right after leaving Da Nang station, you’ll get spectacular views of Da Nang’s beaches with the ocean sparkling in the background.
- Hai Van Pass – The train traverses this stunning mountain pass road with panoramic views of beaches, hills, and rural fishing villages.
- Hue – Stopping in Hue, you can see the Perfume River and Imperial Citadel from the train station.
- Rural villages – Much of the journey passes through quintessential Vietnamese rural villages, with rice paddies, water buffalo, pagodas, and daily life.
- Ninh Binh province – This area is dotted with jagged limestone mountains rising up from green rice fields.
- Hoa Lu – An option to visit the ancient capital of Vietnam from the Ninh Binh station stop.
- West Lake (Hanoi) – On arriving in Hanoi, you can see the city’s beautiful West Lake from your train window.
Things to Do in Hanoi After Arriving by Train from Da Nang
The vibrant capital of Hanoi is an amazing city to explore after you arrive by train from Da Nang. From history and culture to arts and food, here are some top things to do in Hanoi:
- Wander through the Old Quarter with its narrow streets, tube houses, and lively markets.
- Visit top attractions like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Hoan Kiem Lake.
- See a traditional water puppet show for a uniquely Vietnamese cultural experience.
- Take a street food tour to sample tasty local dishes like pho, banh mi, and egg coffee.
- Tour the infamous Hoa Lo Prison to learn about Vietnam’s colonial history.
- Visit fascinating museums like the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and the Vietnam Women’s Museum.
- Take a peaceful walk around West Lake, stopping in pagodas and temples along the way.
- Shop for souvenirs at the old-world Dong Xuan Market.
- Join a bike tour around Hanoi’s leafy boulevards and French colonial architecture.
After an incredible train ride from Da Nang, Hanoi offers so many exciting things to see and do. It’s easy to spend a week or more exploring this dynamic capital city and the surrounding areas like Ha Long Bay.
Tips for an Enjoyable Train Journey from Da Nang to Hanoi
To make the most of your train trip from Da Nang to Hanoi, keep these tips in mind:
- Opt for a soft sleeper ticket for the most comfortable long-distance ride. Hard sleepers are also fine for shorter journeys.
- Stock up on snacks, books, music, and other entertainment for the ride. Dining cars serve simple meals but bring your own food too.
- Get up periodically to stretch your legs, chat with fellow passengers, and watch the scenery go by.
- Keep valuables on you and lock luggage to the racks for safety.
- Book a hotel near Hanoi station so you can easily get to your accommodation.
- Look into hiring a private car or guide in Hanoi if you want to make the most of your time there.
- Print out your ticket and arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure time.
- Enjoy the journey! Slow travel by train lets you truly see and experience Vietnam.
We hope this guide gives you useful information and inspiration for taking the train from Da Nang to Hanoi. Happy travels and let us know if you have any other questions as you plan your trip! The train journey through Vietnam is an unforgettable adventure.