Discover how to travel to Hanoi by train with eco-friendly options! Explore routes, schedules, fares, and Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours to Hoan Kiem Ward. Book your journey now!
Photograph the cultural allure of Hanoi Travel’s heritageHanoi, the cultural and political heart of Vietnam, welcomes over 18 million visitors annually to its vibrant Hoan Kiem Ward, home to the historic Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. Traveling to Hanoi by train offers a scenic, eco-friendly way to experience the country’s 1,000-year-old Thang Long heritage, connecting you to lush rice paddies, coastal cliffs, and vibrant cities. With fares starting at $2–$70 (50,000–1,750,000 VND), trains provide affordable comfort, from hard seats to air-conditioned soft sleepers, linking Hanoi to major hubs like Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Lao Cai.
Vietnam’s railway system, including the iconic Reunification Express, prioritizes sustainability with low-emission diesel engines and shared transport, reducing the carbon footprint compared to flights. In a tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), trains offer a reliable escape from weather disruptions. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours integrate train travel for a green, immersive arrival in Hanoi. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards, with former Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward and Ba Đình District as Ba Đình Ward under Hanoi City’s administration, simplifying navigation to Hanoi’s train stations using ward-based maps.
Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly tours and train-based itineraries to Hanoi, tailored for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like electric taxis or VinBus for city transfers, led by English-speaking guides who share railway histories, cultural insights, and green practices, ensuring a safe, enriching journey. Supporting local communities, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and arrive in Hanoi responsibly!
Capture the scenic allure of Hanoi’s rail journey (Source: Source: Internet)Hanoi’s main railway station, Hanoi Station at 120 Lê Duẩn Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, serves as the northern hub of Vietnam’s 2,632-km railway network, connecting to Ho Chi Minh City (1,726 km south) and spur lines to Lao Cai, Hải Phòng, and Lạng Sơn. The Reunification Express, completed in 1936 and restored in 1976, links Hanoi to southern cities like Huế, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City, offering air-conditioned soft sleepers (4-berth), hard sleepers (6-berth), soft seats, and hard seats. Spur lines, like Hanoi to Lao Cai for Sapa, provide overnight options with tourist-oriented trains. Eco-friendly diesel engines and high-capacity carriages reduce emissions, while onboard snack carts offer local rice dishes ($2 or 50,000 VND), supporting Vietnam’s sustainable tourism efforts.
These eco-friendly train routes, with fares from $2–$70, connect Hanoi to key destinations:
A 1,726-km journey via the North-South Railway, best for a 32–36-hour overnight adventure, with soft sleeper fares at $40–$70 (1,000,000–1,750,000 VND).
Cost: Hard seat $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND); soft sleeper $40–$70.
Schedule: Daily SE1 (10:00 PM), SE3 (7:20 PM), SE5 (3:30 PM), SE7 (6:10 AM); 32–36 hours.
Eco-Friendly Note: Shared cabins reduce per-person emissions; book early for soft sleepers.
Tip: Choose SE1 or SE3 for newer carriages; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vietnam Rail Eco-Tour ($250–$400).
A 791-km coastal route via Hai Van Pass, ideal for a 16–18-hour overnight trip, with soft sleeper fares at $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).
Cost: Hard seat $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND); soft sleeper $30–$50.
Schedule: Daily SE2 (1:00 PM), SE4 (11:30 AM), SE6 (4:00 AM), SE8 (7:00 PM); 16–18 hours.
Eco-Friendly Note: Scenic views minimize flight needs; pack snacks for onboard dining.
Tip: Book middle bunk for comfort; included in Legend Travel Group’s Coastal Rail Eco-Tour ($100–$150).
A 688-km journey through lush landscapes, best for a 12–14-hour overnight trip, with soft sleeper fares at $22–$40 (550,000–1,000,000 VND).
Cost: Hard seat $8–$15 (200,000–375,000 VND); soft sleeper $22–$40.
Schedule: Daily SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7; 12–14 hours.
Eco-Friendly Note: Low-emission diesel trains; support local vendors at Huế Station.
Tip: Choose SE3 for modern amenities; included in Legend Travel Group’s Central Vietnam Eco-Tour ($100–$150).
A 296-km mountainous route, perfect for an 8-hour overnight trip, with soft sleeper fares at $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND) on tourist trains like SP1 or SP3.
Cost: Hard seat $6–$10 (150,000–250,000 VND); soft sleeper $15–$30.
Schedule: Nightly SP1 (9:35 PM), SP3 (10:00 PM); 8 hours.
Eco-Friendly Note: Tourist trains reduce road traffic to Sapa; book via agents for luxury cabins.
Tip: Opt for Livitrans or Victoria Express for comfort; included in Legend Travel Group’s Sapa Rail Eco-Tour ($100–$150).
A 102-km coastal spur, ideal for a 2–3-hour day trip, with soft seat fares at $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).
Cost: Hard seat $1.50–$3 (37,500–75,000 VND); soft seat $2–$5.
Schedule: Daily HP1 (6:00 AM), HP3 (3:00 PM); 2–3 hours.
Eco-Friendly Note: Short route minimizes emissions; cycle post-arrival for green exploration.
Tip: Book at Hanoi Station for same-day travel; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Coastal Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Photograph the breathtaking views of Hanoi’s rail routes (Source: Source: Internet)Book trains from November to April for cool, dry weather (15–28°C or 59–82.4°F), ideal for scenic views and stable schedules. The rainy season (May–October) risks delays due to weather, though trains are more reliable than buses. Avoid peak travel during Tet (January/February), when trains sell out weeks in advance and fares rise 20–30%. Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) offer fewer crowds (500–1,000 passengers/train) than weekends (2,000–3,000), ensuring better seat availability. Night trains (7:00 PM–10:00 PM departures) save daylight and hotel costs, arriving Hanoi 5:00 AM–8:00 AM. Check schedules 1–2 months ahead, as delays of 1–3 hours are common.
Online Platforms: Use Vietnam Railways’ official site (vnr.com) or trusted agents like Baolau.com for schedules and bookings. Fares start at $2–$70; book 1–2 months ahead for soft sleepers, especially during Tet.
At Stations: Purchase at Hanoi Station (120 Lê Duẩn, Hoan Kiem Ward) or other major stations like Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang. Cash preferred; expect limited English support.
Travel Agents: Legend Travel Group offers seamless booking with eco-tour integration, ensuring soft sleeper availability and English support.
Apps: Download Baolau or Vietnam Railways apps for real-time schedules; Grab app for station transfers.
Eco-Friendly Note: Digital tickets reduce paper waste; book shared cabins for lower emissions.
Tip: Secure middle or lower bunks for comfort; children under 2 ride free, 2–9 pay 50% on most routes (except Hanoi–Lao Cai).
Start your Hanoi Travel with cultural vibrancy (Source: Source: Internet)Pack these essentials for a sustainable train experience:
Clothing: Light layers, comfortable shoes for station walks; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season.
Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), hand sanitizer ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with Baolau/Grab apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
Food & Drink: Snacks, instant noodles ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND); onboard meals $2 (50,000 VND).
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes), train ticket (digital or printed).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for luggage ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes; lock for bags (20 kg adult limit).
Extras: Earplugs, eye mask for sleep; notebook for travel notes.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for onboard snacks ($0.50–$2) or station vendors ($1–$3); secure valuables in cabins.
Train Fares (One-Way)
Ho Chi Minh City–Hanoi: Hard seat $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND); soft sleeper $40–$70 (1,000,000–1,750,000 VND).
Da Nang–Hanoi: Hard seat $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND); soft sleeper $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).
Huế–Hanoi: Hard seat $8–$15 (200,000–375,000 VND); soft sleeper $22–$40 (550,000–1,000,000 VND).
Lao Cai–Hanoi: Hard seat $6–$10 (150,000–250,000 VND); soft sleeper $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND).
Hải Phòng–Hanoi: Hard seat $1.50–$3 (37,500–75,000 VND); soft seat $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).
Onboard Meals: $2 (50,000 VND).
Tips (optional): $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND).
Station Transfers (Round-Trip, Hanoi Station to Hoan Kiem Ward)
Walking: Free (1 km).
Cyclo: $2–$4/hour (50,000–100,000 VND).
Xe Ôm: $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 VND) for 1–2 km.
VinBus: $0.30–$0.40 (7,000–10,000 VND).
Xanh SM Taxi: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).
Bicycle Rental: $2–$5/day (50,000–125,000 VND).
Private Car: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Additional Costs
Street Food (Hanoi Old Quarter): $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Drinks (Bia Hơi, Coffee): $0.30–$1.50 (7,000–37,500 VND).
Souvenirs (e.g., Handicrafts): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Guided Eco-Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND/day).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person, Arrival Day)
Budget: $10–$30 (hard seat, xe ôm, street food).
Mid-range: $40–$70 (soft sleeper, taxi, guided tour).
Luxury: $100–$150 (private car, guided tour, premium dining).
Tip: Budget for train fares ($2–$70), transfers ($0.30–$8), and food ($1–$3); carry cash for tickets and vendors (apps accept digital payments).
Learn Hanoi’s heritage with expert insights (Source: Source: Internet)Timing: Travel November–April for scenic views; avoid Tet for availability. Book night trains (7:00 PM–10:00 PM) to save daylight; expect 1–3-hour delays.
Booking: Use Baolau.com or Vietnam Railways 1–2 months ahead; visit Hanoi Station (120 Lê Duẩn) for last-minute tickets. Legend Travel Group ensures soft sleeper bookings.
Sustainability: Choose soft sleepers for shared cabins; bring reusable bottles to reduce waste. Support station vendors for local snacks ($0.50–$2).
Navigation: Save “120 Lê Duẩn, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps; use Hanoi Station’s Gate A for southbound arrivals. Write destinations in Vietnamese (e.g., “Ga Hà Nội, 120 Lê Duẩn”).
Safety: Secure bags with locks (20 kg limit); avoid top bunks for comfort. Beware pickpockets at Hanoi Station; confirm fares via apps.
Weather: Dry season for reliable schedules; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5). Check AccuWeather for departure conditions.
Cultural Respect: Greet staff with “xin chào”; tip $0.20–$0.50 for excellent service (not mandatory). Respect cabin mates; keep noise low.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); carry hand sanitizer. Choose busy station stalls for fresh food.
Our eco-friendly tours showcase Hanoi’s cultural treasures with seamless train travel:
Hanoi Arrival Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Huế–Hanoi soft sleeper, Xanh SM taxi to Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake visit, and street food tasting ($2–$5). Includes guide, transport.
Hanoi & Sapa Rail Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Lao Cai–Hanoi night train, Sapa trek, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.
Vietnam Rail Adventure ($250–$400/person, 5 days): Ho Chi Minh City–Hanoi Reunification Express, Ninh Bình, Hanoi sights, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
Traveling to Hanoi by train, arriving at Hanoi Station in Hoan Kiem Ward, offers a scenic, eco-friendly journey through Vietnam’s landscapes, with fares from $2–$70 (50,000–1,750,000 VND) on routes like the Reunification Express or Lao Cai spur. Welcoming 18 million visitors yearly, Hanoi’s Old Quarter pulses with cultural charm, just 1 km from the station. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience, blending Thang Long heritage with modern comfort. Whether marveling at Hai Van Pass or exploring Hàng Đào, your train journey to Hanoi promises an unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly rail experience today!
Ready to travel to Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward by train? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural journey!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
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