The Evolution of Rail Travel in Vietnam

In recent years, train travel in Vietnam has undergone a significant transformation. Once seen primarily as a mode of transportation for budget travelers and locals, it is now being reimagined as a high-end experience. For B2B tour operators and travel agencies, understanding this evolution is key to tapping into a new niche of affluent travelers looking for more immersive and memorable journeys. As luxury tourism continues to grow in Vietnam, train travel is carving out its place in the premium segment of the market.

Historically, Vietnam’s train routes have connected major cities from north to south, with the Reunification Express serving as the backbone of the national rail system. While functional, the standard train services have long been associated with basic amenities and long travel times. However, recent developments have introduced new standards of comfort, service, and sophistication that rival international luxury rail experiences.

SJourney: Vietnam’s Premier Luxury Rail Adventure

One of the most notable advancements in luxury train travel in Vietnam is the launch of SJourney, a project by PYS Travel. This 8-day, 7-night journey offers a trans-Vietnam itinerary from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, completely reimagined in terms of service and design. The train is styled in classic Indochine aesthetics and functions as a mobile hotel. Cabins come equipped with private bathrooms, plush bedding, and elegant furnishings, elevating the experience far beyond traditional sleeper trains. The journey is not just about the destinations, but the experience itself, complete with curated meals prepared by five-star hotel chefs, onboard cultural activities, and guided excursions in locations such as Ninh Binh, Quang Binh, Hue, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phan Thiet.

The pricing for this experience reflects its exclusivity. As of December 2024, the cost is approximately $7,320 per person (around 186 million VND), and from January 2025, the price increases to $8,610 per person (roughly 220 million VND). This all-inclusive package positions SJourney as one of the most expensive train experiences in Southeast Asia, targeting a very specific clientele of high-net-worth individuals, luxury travel groups, and corporate incentive tours. For B2B travel planners, SJourney represents an opportunity to cater to the upper echelon of travelers who prioritize comfort, privacy, and cultural depth.

The Vietage by Anantara: Coastal Elegance on Rails

Another significant player in Vietnam’s luxury rail revival is The Vietage by Anantara. Unlike the cross-country scope of SJourney, The Vietage offers a more concise experience, operating a six-hour route between Da Nang and Quy Nhon. This journey emphasizes comfort and style, offering private booths for two, gourmet dining, complimentary wines and cocktails, and even spa treatments while in motion. The design echoes the sophistication of boutique hotels, with tasteful interiors and attentive service.

At approximately $400 per ticket (around 10 million VND), The Vietage is comparatively more accessible than SJourney, making it an ideal add-on for high-end travelers exploring central Vietnam. Its shorter duration and connection between two major resort hubs make it a strategic inclusion in curated itineraries for FITs and small luxury groups. Tour operators can use The Vietage as a distinctive selling point for guests seeking a unique, upscale travel experience without committing to a full trans-Vietnam journey.

Storytelling on the Tracks: The Allure of Immersive Journeys

What makes luxury train travel in Vietnam increasingly attractive is its ability to blend transportation with storytelling. These journeys are not just about moving from point A to point B; they are about experiencing Vietnam’s landscapes, cultures, and cuisines in an immersive and uninterrupted manner. Guests can wake up to misty mountains in the north and fall asleep to the coastal breeze of the central provinces, all while enjoying hotel-level amenities.

Strategic Value for B2B Travel Designers

From a B2B standpoint, integrating these luxury train experiences into existing tour packages can be a value multiplier. They can serve as both the logistical and thematic backbone of longer itineraries. For example, SJourney can be positioned as a flagship component of a 10-14 day cultural exploration package, while The Vietage can enhance a beach and wellness itinerary along the central coast. This approach allows travel businesses to differentiate their offerings in a competitive market increasingly driven by demand for authenticity, comfort, and exclusivity.

A Sustainable Choice for the Future

Furthermore, luxury train travel supports sustainable and slow tourism trends. It encourages travelers to engage with local cultures and communities at a more deliberate pace. It also reduces the environmental footprint compared to short domestic flights, aligning with the growing demand for eco-conscious travel solutions. For corporate groups and incentive travel programs, these trains offer an ideal setting for networking, team-building, and brand storytelling in an exclusive and inspiring environment.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Rail-Based Tourism in Vietnam

As Vietnam continues to develop its tourism infrastructure, the luxury rail segment is expected to expand further. The success of projects like SJourney and The Vietage signals a strong market response, which may pave the way for more high-end services on other routes such as Hanoi to Lao Cai (gateway to Sapa) or even extensions into the Mekong Delta region. The government’s push for tourism diversification also supports the growth of alternative travel modes, making it a strategic time for travel companies to invest in rail-based experiences.

Capitalizing on Vietnam’s Rail Renaissance

In conclusion, train travel in Vietnam is no longer a relic of the past. It has emerged as a premium offering that resonates with the modern traveler’s desire for meaningful and luxurious journeys. For B2B tour operators, wholesalers, and travel advisors, tapping into this segment is not just about selling a ticket, but curating an experience that leaves a lasting impression. Whether it’s the all-inclusive, cross-country indulgence of SJourney or the refined elegance of The Vietage, these train journeys are setting a new benchmark for luxury travel in Vietnam.

By aligning your offerings with these developments and staying informed about upcoming routes and partnerships, your business can be at the forefront of one of Vietnam’s most exciting tourism trends. The rails are ready—it’s time to climb aboard.