The Reunification Express runs daily between Ho Chi Minh City and Ha Noi (and vice versa), covering a total distance of 1,726 kilometres.

The Reunification Express passes through Hai Van Pass, which lies between Hue and Da Nang.

According to Lonely Planet: “This is one of Southeast Asia’s most beloved railways — and one of the most epic overnight train journeys in the world.

There is no more atmospheric way to haul into Viet Nam’s twin metropolises as the train rattles through historic cities and swooshes beside spectacular coastlines.”

Following the Reunification Express in the top 10 are: the California Zephyr (the US), the Lake Titicaca Train (Peru), the Beijing–Lhasa Express (China), the TranzAlpine (New Zealand), the Bergensbanen (Norway), the Tazara Railway (Tanzania and Zambia), the Sunset Limited (the US), the Caledonian Sleeper (the UK), and the Mombasa–Nairobi train (Kenya).

The journeys were selected based on several criteria: breathtaking scenery, cultural and historical significance, unique travel experiences, connectivity and exploration potential, and their ability to inspire sustainable tourism.

Lonely Planet describes these slow travel experiences as offering a whole new perspective on each destination, from passing through tranquil rural landscapes to connecting major cities.

The publication, which was first launched in 1973 and has a vast global readership, previously included the Reunification Express in its list of the world’s top 10 most beautiful train journeys in 2018.

In January 2025, Rail Europe — one of Europe’s leading rail service providers — also featured the Reunification Express in its list of the top 9 must-ride rail journeys.

Recently, not only the Reunification Express but also an increasing number of domestic rail routes in Viet Nam have been upgraded and actively promoted to attract both local and international tourists.

Notable examples include the Hue–Da Nang heritage train, the five-star Ha Noi–Hai Phong tourist train, and the vintage Da Lat–Trai Mat night experience train.

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