What to see

South 

  • Ho Chi Minh City: Here, you'll find a fascinating blend of French colonial architecture, bustling street markets, and mouthwatering cuisine.

  • Cu Chi Tunnel: Cu Chi played a pivotal role during the Vietnam War. Its claim to fame lies in the intricate network of underground tunnels, meticulously dug by Viet Cong soldiers. Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels offers a unique and humbling glimpse into the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people. 

  • Mekong Delta: Discover bustling floating markets overflowing with fresh produce, take a boat trip through serene canals, or learn about the unique culture of the Western people.

Ho Chi Minh City from above

Ho Chi Minh City

Centre

  • Da Nang: With its iconic bridges that come alive after sunset, Da Nang offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and urban vibrancy. 

  • Hoi An Town: It is known for colorful lanterns, ancient architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The town’s winding streets, lined with old wooden shophouses, invite visitors to take a step back in time and explore the sights and sounds of a bygone era. 

  • Hue City: This ancient city has a rich historical, educational hub, cultural center, and political seat of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty. Although it lost its historic function as the capital, Hue remains a captivating destination with its preserved heritage, including the Thien Mu Pagoda and other former royal buildings.

Central region of Vietnam

Central region of Vietnam

North

  • Hanoi: Steeped in over 1,000 years of history, it boasts a mesmerizing Old Quarter with narrow streets and guild houses. This vibrant city is a must-visit for those seeking cultural immersion, delicious street food, and a glimpse into Vietnam's fascinating past. 

  • Halong Bay: Imagine a mystical landscape where emerald waters cradle thousands of limestone pillars rising from the sea. Halong Bay boasts an otherworldly beauty with hidden caves, towering cliffs, and floating villages. 

  • Ninh Binh: Ninh Binh boasts a mesmerizing landscape of towering limestone karsts rising from rice paddies, creating a panorama that will leave you awestruck. 

  • Sapa: Hike through breathtaking landscapes, immerse yourself in the rich traditions of hill tribes, or visit the iconic Fansipan Mountain. Sapa offers an unforgettable escape into a world of natural beauty and cultural richness.

vietnam by train itinerary

North Vietnam

Detailed Vietnam by train Itinerary

Here are suggested 15 days in Vietnam by train itinerary. I will also name some of the landscapes and activities to try at spots.

Day 1

Ho Chi Minh City arrival

- Explore museums: War Remnants Museum, Fine Arts Museum, Ho Chi Minh City Museum, etc.

- Visit historic sites: The Independence Palace, Saigon Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, etc.

- Immerse in city nightlife on Bui Vien Street. 

Day 2

(travel by long bus)

Cu Chi Tunnel 

- Delve into the depths of this subterranean world, exploring hidden rooms, secret passageways, and booby traps.

- Witness the ingenuity and resilience of the Viet Cong as you gain a deeper understanding of this pivotal era in Vietnamese history.

Day 3

(travel by long bus)

Mekong Delta 

 - Explore floating markets

- Take a boat trip through the Mekong Delta's intricate network of canals and waterways

- Visit a fruit orchard

- Bike through the countryside

Day 4

Overnight train to Da Nang

Day 5 - 6

Da Nang 

- Marvel at the Dragon Bridge

- Relax on My Khe Beach

- Explore the Marble Mountains

Day 7

(travel by long bus)

Hoi An Town

- Explore Hoi An's UNESCO-listed Old Town

- Admire the Japanese Covered Bridge

- Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River

Day 8

Transfer to Hue - Overnight train to Hanoi

- Visit the Imperial Citadel

- Drop by Dong Ba Market: a bustling hub for local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious street food.

- Discover the Tomb of Khai Dinh

Day 9

Hanoi 

- Step back in time at the Temple of Literature

- Explore the Hoa Lo Prison

- Witness the Water Puppet Show

Day 10 - 11

(travel by long bus)

Halong Bay

- Cruise the emerald waters

- Enjoy a seafood feast

Day 12

(travel by long bus)

Ninh Binh

- Conquer Mua Cave

- Paddle through Tam Coc

Day 13 - 14

(travel by long bus)

Sapa

- Immerse yourself in hill tribe culture

- Hike Fansipan - The Roof of Indochina

Day 15

Hanoi Departure
 

Tips

  • Plan in advance: Train tickets, especially for popular routes and soft sleeper carriages, can sell out quickly. Aim to book 3-4 months in advance, especially during peak season.

  • Choose your train wisely: Vietnam offers various train classes, from budget-friendly hard seats to comfortable soft sleepers. Consider your travel style, budget, and journey duration when choosing your carriage class.

  • Download offline maps: Train stations and surrounding areas might not always have reliable internet access. Download offline maps of your destinations beforehand to navigate easily.

Vietnam By Train Itinerary

Follow these tips to enjoy fully the trip

For a broader perspective, consult our post on travel guide to Vietnam!

Whether you are seeking a thrilling adventure or leisure travel, this Vietnam by train itinerary will satisfy you. If you are interested in any city in Vietnam or having inquiries about Vietnam tours, don't hesitate to drop by the New Asia Tours website.