Train Travel

The ticket office at the main Hanoi train station, Ga Hanoi, is open 24 hours, although it's easiest to buy tickets between 8 and 11 am, and between 1 and 11 pm. Foreigners should buy tickets at counter 2, and some of the schedules are even in English. Another smaller train station, across the tracks from the main one, services northern routes; the foreign booking agents at the main station will direct you.

Trains leave 10 times daily for Ho Chi Minh City but only one (SE3) is an express (32 hours). The express makes stops at most major cities, including Vinh, Hue, Danang, and Nha Trang. Purchase a day in advance if you want to ensure a seat. Other destinations include Lao Cai (two times daily; 10 hours) and Haiphong (four times daily; two hours). For the most updated train schedule and ticket fare, consult www.dsvn.vn

Train Contact

Ga Hanoi. 120 Le Duan, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Ha Noi. 43/825–3949.