How much are Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City train tickets?
The cheapest Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City train tickets start from €33.93 with Vietnam Railways. The journey takes 35h 33min, with 6 departures per day, from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. To get the lowest fare, book in advance and pick off-peak, mid-week departures — the cheapest non-refundable fares sell out first.
- Cheapest fare: from €33.93
- Journey time: 35h 33min
- Frequency: 6 departures per day
- Carrier: Vietnam Railways
About This Route
The train journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City operated by Vietnam Railways takes approximately 35 hours and 33 minutes, with fares starting from €33.93. The train arrives at Saigon Railway Station, located in District 3, about 1.5 kilometers north of Ho Chi Minh City's central area. From the station, travelers can reach the city center via several options: the nearest metro station, Ben Thanh, is under development but not yet operational for this route, so current options include local buses, taxis, or walking. Bus routes 1 and 9 stop near the station and connect to key parts of the city. A taxi ride to District 1’s main areas typically takes 10-15 minutes depending on traffic, with fares around 70,000-120,000 VND (€2.50-4.50). Walking to the city center is possible within 20-25 minutes, suitable for those with light luggage. Upon arrival, it's advisable to have Vietnamese dong on hand for transport and small purchases. Keep an eye on your belongings during transit, and consider using official taxis or ride-hailing apps for safety and convenience. The station has basic facilities including restrooms and food stalls to accommodate travelers upon arrival.
What to Expect on the Journey
Traveling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train covers approximately 1,730 kilometers through diverse Vietnamese landscapes. The route begins in the Red River Delta, characterized by flat rice paddies and small villages. As the train moves south, passengers pass through the central highlands region, where rolling hills and mountainous terrain offer changing views. Notable stops include the historic city of Hue with its ancient citadel, and Da Nang, a coastal city with nearby beaches. The onboard experience on Vietnam Railways includes options for seated and sleeper cars, providing rest on this day-and-a-half journey. The train travels mostly along the coastline, allowing glimpses of rural life, river deltas, and occasional glimpses of the South China Sea. While the pace is slower than flying, the train presents a relaxed way to see the countryside and towns along this north-south axis. Meals are available through onboard vendors or station stops, and the route operates six times daily, providing flexibility for travelers.
Route Highlights
How to Get from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
| Option | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
Best Train | 35h 33m | From €33.93 |
| Bus | 22h | From €25.00 |
| Driving | 20h | €70-100 fuel + tolls |
The train offers a balance of comfort and sightseeing opportunities that are hard to match by bus or car on this long route.
Station Information
Vietnam Railways Ticket Classes
- Basic seating
- Non-reclining wooden or plastic seats
- Shared seating in open carriages
- Padded, reclining seats
- Air-conditioned carriage
- More personal space
- Private compartments with beds
- Bedding provided
- Air conditioning and privacy
How to Book Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City Tickets
Select travel dates well in advance to maximize availability of cheaper tickets, especially in the budget hard seat class.
Use the official Vietnam Railways website or authorized booking platforms to secure tickets early and avoid last-minute price increases.
Mid-week departures generally have more seats available at the lowest fares compared to weekends or public holidays.
Hard seat tickets start from around €33.93 and are the most affordable option for this route.
Cheaper fares are often non-refundable and sell out quickly, so be certain of your plans before purchase.
Travel Tips
- Have local currency (Vietnamese dong) ready for transportation and purchases
- Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Grab for safer transport
- If carrying heavy luggage, taxis are recommended over walking or buses
- Be aware that the metro line serving the area is not yet operational
- Keep personal belongings secure while moving through busy areas
Luggage & Accessibility
Vietnam Railways allows passengers to bring up to 20 kilograms of luggage without extra charge. Oversized items should be declared in advance and may incur additional fees. Typically, two bags are permitted per passenger. Bicycles require special arrangements and may not be accepted on all trains. Accessibility features vary by carriage, so inquire when booking if you require assistance or wheelchair access.
When You Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City
Upon arriving in Ho Chi Minh City, consider visiting the War Remnants Museum for historical context, Ben Thanh Market for local shopping, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica for architecture. The station's proximity to District 1 allows for quick access to these spots. For your first hour, arrange transport through the official taxi rank or a ride-hailing app for ease of travel. Stay alert to traffic conditions and keep essential belongings close during transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ticket prices start from approximately €33.93 for the hard seat class on Vietnam Railways, with duration around 35 hours and 33 minutes.
