The QB1 train from Hanoi on May 31 had sold out its sleeper-bed tickets, with fewer than 30 seat tickets remaining. Similarly, the return route on June 2 had only a few seats left. The SE1 route, running from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City with a stop in Quang Binh, was also almost fully booked.
Vietnam Railways’ ticket portal shows that southward-bound trains from Hanoi in June are mostly sold out for weekends, with more availability on northward-bound return trains. Short routes from Hanoi to Vinh or Hai Phong still have many seats available.
A representative of Hanoi Railway Transport JSC noted that railway travel is expected to increase by 8% to 10% this summer. The company plans to sell approximately 1.1 million tickets on all routes, with prices increasing by about 7% compared to 2023. As of May 20, the company had sold about 170,000 tickets, a brisk pace compared to previous years. The demand is particularly high for routes from Hanoi to central Vietnam, with families often taking the train one way and flying back.
Several factors contribute to the rising demand for rail travel. With flight tickets becoming more expensive, trains offer a cost-effective alternative. Additionally, railway policies provide discounts to tourist groups and waive fees for children under six years old. The quality of service and facilities on trains has also improved significantly in recent years.
Trains departing from Hanoi in the evening arrive in Quang Binh the following morning and in Hue and Da Nang by afternoon, simplifying travel itineraries and offering a scenic journey. Consequently, trains to central Vietnam are usually packed on weekends, especially the SE19 and SE20, which feature high-end facilities despite higher ticket prices of around VND1.2 million ($47).
This summer, railway companies are operating six cross-country trains from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City daily, along with additional shorter routes to Quang Binh, Hue, Vinh, and Da Nang. More trains are added on weekends for the Hanoi-Dong Hoi and Hanoi-Hai Phong routes.
Large groups, such as companies, can hire entire trains for private travel. In May alone, railway companies operated seven private trains, serving a total of 2,400 tourists.
Discount policies are also in place for various groups, including those receiving social welfare. Tourists buying two-way tickets 20 days in advance receive a discount of up to 10%, while groups of over 20 people get a 9% discount. Children under six travel for free, those aged 6 to 10 receive a 25% discount, university students get a 10% discount, and seniors over 60 get a 15% discount.
As travelers seek more affordable and scenic travel options, train travel in Vietnam is becoming increasingly popular, offering a viable alternative to air travel this summer.
Tags: Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, High airfares, Quang Binh, summer travel, Tourism, train travel, Vietnam, Vietnam Railways
