How to organise a multi destination journey on the rails across Central Vietnam

Cutting through urban settings and connecting travellers with rural countryside and great cities, train journeys offer an entirely new perspective on a destination. Expect plenty of magic when you engage in this venture. With an abundance of amenities at hand in the carriages and fellow travellers to interact with or the dazzling landscapes you pass by, a rail trip through central Vietnam promises adventure and insights into the heart of the nation. 

Book the tickets in advance 

It is always a good idea to book your Vietnam train tickets in advance so that you are sure of being able to embark on the journey on the date you have in mind. This will ensure that you have the preferred seats and better quality sleepers for comfortable overnight travel. This route is best enjoyed during sunrise or sunset hours, so if you are keen on sightseeing, it is best to book a ticket which makes the journey during the daytime. 

This is especially essential on popular routes and during peak train travel seasons, such as between February and August. April 30 and May 1 are back-to-back holidays, which mark Reunification Day and International Labour Day. These are two days when many travel through this area by train to their hometowns. Therefore, make a note of it to secure your train journey early.  

Know the amenities available on board 

The types of trains which journey through these regions range from basic to luxury. Therefore, if you select a luxurious travel experience, it is important to consider whether the services on board are worth the money that you are willing to spend. 

The Vietage by Anantara makes a 6-hour train journey from Da Nang to Quy Nhon and a five-hour journey between Nha Trang and Quy Nhon. You get 12 exclusive private seats on it and facilities like a dedicated spa area offering head and shoulder massages, free Wi-Fi, free-flow wine and cocktails, gourmet three-course meals, family-friendly services like kids’ menus, games and more.  

Choose where to place yourself for the ride 

It is crucial to decide on where to sit yourself early to make the best of your train adventure along the Central Vietnam route. This way, you can be sure that you will not miss out on the best coastal views. There are highlights in the Hai Van Pass area that you will not want to miss. If the train is journeying from Da Nang to Quy Nhon and Nha Trang you can keep an eye out for landmarks and interesting sightings like Binh Thanh (a long wooden bridge), Banh It Temple, Mui Dien Lighthouse (one of the oldest in the country), Nha Trang Bay, Ponagar Tower, Long Son Pagoda, salt fields, and fishing villages. 

The left side offers the best sightings in a train when travelling southwards, such as between Da Nang and Nha Trang. Soft seats are the best as this journey takes around five to nine hours. If you are travelling during the nighttime, try to choose a lower berth in a 4-berth or 2-berth soft sleeper cabin. This ensures that you have a comfortable experience. 

Take along essentials 

If you are travelling with your family, bring along some snacks and drinks as the train ride is lengthy. Small children tend to get hungry often and would fuss if they do not have anything to munch on. Also, keep some entertainment like a favourite book or a puzzle handy, otherwise long hours on the carriage can make them restless. 

Since the carriages are air-conditioned and tend to get cold as nighttime approaches, pack a sweater or a jacket. Earplugs may be essential if you tend to sleep there, and they can keep out any noise outside your cabin. Take along a power bank to keep your electronic equipment charged. Do not leave your valuables unattended.