Hanoi to Hoi An Train: Luxury Journey Aboard SJourney
Discover the ultimate Hanoi to Hoi An train experience aboard SJourney Luxury Train, operated exclusively by Vietnam Luxury Express. As Vietnam’s first true luxury train, SJourney transforms the classic route into an unforgettable 8-day north-to-south journey, featuring a full-day immersion in UNESCO-listed Hoi An Ancient Town, gourmet dining, and breathtaking Hai Van Pass views – far beyond ordinary overnight trains.
Why Choose the Hanoi to Hoi An Train Luxury Option with SJourney?
Key reasons travelers choose SJourney for their Hanoi to Hoi An train journey:
- Indochine Elegance Meets Modern Comfort: Cabins evoke 1930s colonial charm with wood paneling, brass fixtures, and panoramic windows – but include air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and dedicated attendants.
- All-Inclusive Immersion: Gourmet meals with house wines, off-train excursions led by English-speaking guides, and no hidden fees.
- Scenic Mastery: The train times daylight travel for the legendary Hai Van Pass – often called one of the world’s most beautiful rail routes – with turquoise seas on one side and marble mountains on the other.
- Hoi An Done Right: A full curated day in Quang Nam province, including artisan villages and free time in the lantern-lit ancient town.
How to Get from Hanoi to Hoi An by Train – The Step-by-Step Journey
Travelers enjoy the scenic route from Hanoi to Hoi An by train in complete comfort. The Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh by luxury train offers a premium travel experience..
Day 1: Elegant Departure from Hanoi
Your adventure begins with complimentary pickup from your Hanoi hotel between 4:30–5:30 p.m. You’re whisked to Gia Lam Station’s exclusive VIP lounge for check-in, live traditional music, canapés, and welcome cocktails. Board SJourney amid a ceremonial atmosphere, settle into your cabin, and cross the historic Long Bien Bridge at twilight as the Red River glitters below. A multi-course welcome dinner with fine wines sets the tone as the train slips quietly into the night.
Day 2: Ninh Binh – “Halong Bay on Land”
Wake to breakfast with views of limestone karsts. Disembark for a serene sampan boat ride through Trang An’s grottoes and temples, followed by Hoa Lu ancient capital. Lunch back onboard, afternoon tea with mountain vistas, then dinner as you continue south.
Day 3: Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Explore the UNESCO-listed caves by boat along the Son River—stalactites, underground rivers, and pure wonder. Evening brings an optional cooking class and home-style dinner amid glowing rice paddies.
Day 4: Imperial Hue
Rickshaw through the Citadel, private van to royal tombs, incense-making workshops, and Hue royal cuisine for lunch. Afternoon scenery includes Perfume River pagodas and Lang Co Lagoon.
Day 5: The Magic of Hoi An – Your Central Vietnam Highlight
This is the day most guests say they’ll remember forever.
- Morning coffee onboard overlooking endless rice fields
- Jeep transfer to Au Lac Wood Art Village for a hands-on woodblock painting workshop
- Thanh Ha Pottery Village—try the potter’s wheel yourself
- Home-hosted lunch with a local family using the freshest central Vietnam ingredients
- Full guided afternoon in Hoi An Ancient Town:
- Stroll colorful shophouses draped in silk lanterns
- Visit Phuc Kien Assembly Hall and historic merchant homes like Phung Hung or Tan Ky
- Cross the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge
- Browse tailors, art galleries, and riverside cafés
- Evening return to the train for dinner and relaxation as you continue south
No rushed transfers, no crowds at the bus station—just pure, guided immersion in one of Vietnam’s most enchanting destinations. For bookings or more details, Contact Us directly via Mobile/Whatsapp/Zalo: +84-975-119-466.
Onboard Life – What Makes SJourney Cabins and Service Exceptional
With only 12 guests per departure, intimacy is guaranteed.
Cabin features (10m² Double or Twin):
- Queen or twin beds with premium linens
- Private en-suite bathroom with shower, luxury amenities, hairdryer, bathrobes
- Air-conditioning, safe, minibar, wardrobe, panoramic windows
- Daily turndown service and 24/7 dedicated attendant
Dining & Bar Car:
- All meals freshly prepared using local premium ingredients
- Vietnamese-French fusion menus, vegetarian/ allergy options
- Complimentary house wines, beers, spirits, and non-alcoholic drinks
- Afternoon high tea, evening cocktails, live music some nights
Wellness & Leisure:
- Small spa car for massages (additional fee)
- Lounge areas for reading or cards
- Cultural performances and lectures
Tips for the Perfect Hanoi to Hoi An Train Journey on SJourney
Book Early – Very Early
SJourney runs only 2 departures per month in each direction and limits guests to 12 cabins. Popular dates (full-moon in Hoi An, Tet season, Christmas) sell out 10–12 months in advance. Lock in your cabin the moment your travel dates are confirmed.
Choose the Right Cabin Orientation
All cabins face forward on the left side of the train for the Hanoi → South route (best views over Hai Van Pass and Lang Co Lagoon). Twin cabins can be sold as “single use” with no supplement on select departures — ask when inquiring.
Pack Light but Smart
One medium suitcase (max 20 kg) and one carry-on per person are allowed. Bring comfortable closed shoes for off-train excursions, a light jacket for air-conditioned cabins, and a portable charger — outlets are plentiful, but peace of mind matters.
Time Your Hoi An Evening Right
Day 5 returns you to the train around 6:30–7:00 p.m. If you want extra time for lantern shopping or a riverside dinner on your own, simply inform the train manager the night before; they can arrange a later private transfer back (small additional fee).
Top Things to Do in Hoi An: Make the Most of Your SJourney Day 5 Visit
Here’s what the exclusive Day 5 itinerary covers, plus professional recommendations for extending your time if you choose to stay longer in this magical ancient town.
Hoi An Ancient Town
This UNESCO World Heritage site is the city’s main attraction, characterized by centuries-old houses, temples, and a vibrant fusion of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese architectural styles.
Japanese Covered Bridge
This 18th-century bridge connecting the former Japanese and Chinese quarters is an iconic symbol of Hoi An. It is featured on the 20,000 Vietnamese dong banknote.
Assembly Halls
Admire the ornate architecture and intricate carvings of the Fujian (Phuc Kien) and Cantonese assembly halls.
Old Houses
Step inside well-preserved merchant homes like the Old House of Tan Ky to see historic living spaces and learn about the city’s trading past.
Hoi An Night Market
Cross the An Hoi Bridge to Nguyen Hoang Street to find a bustling evening market with over 50 vendors. Shop for clothing, souvenirs, lanterns, and street food.
Hoi An Lantern Festival
Every month on the 14th day of the lunar calendar, the Ancient Town’s electric lights are switched off and replaced by thousands of vibrant, multicolored lanterns.
An Bang Beach
Located a short bike ride from the town center, this beach offers white sands and calm blue waters, with restaurants and bars lining the shore. The nearby Sound of Silence Coffee Shop offers a serene atmosphere.
Cam Thanh Coconut Village
Take a basket boat tour through the tranquil waterways of this lush coconut palm forest. Watch locals catch crabs and even experience a “spinning basket boat” performance.
>>> Read more: Hoi An: Timeless Charm and Traditional Crafts
Frequently Asked Questions About Hanoi To Hoi An Train
Is there a direct Hanoi to Hoi An train?
No station exists in Hoi An itself, but SJourney delivers you seamlessly for a full guided day without separate transfers.
What is the best Hanoi to Hoi An train luxury option in 2025?
Hands-down SJourney – Vietnam’s only true luxury train, with glowing reviews from inaugural passengers.
What is the real Hanoi to Hoi An train duration on SJourney?
Approximately 4–5 days of relaxed travel with excursions, versus 16 rushed hours on standard trains.
Can I book just the Hanoi to Hoi An portion?
The itinerary is one seamless journey, but contact the team for tailored disembarkation options in central Vietnam.
Is SJourney worth the cost compared to regular trains?
Absolutely – guests call it “life-changing” for the comfort, inclusions, and authentic experiences.
Conclusion
Skip the ordinary overnight sleeper and choose the extraordinary Hanoi to Hoi An train luxury experience with SJourney by Vietnam Luxury Express. What begins as a simple Hanoi to Hoi An train search becomes the undisputed highlight of your Vietnam adventure: private cabins, daylight views over the Hai Van Pass, and a full, magical day immersed in lantern-lit Hoi An.
Secure your cabin on SJourney today and transform a simple transfer into the highlight of your Vietnam trip. Limited spaces – contact Vietnam Luxury Express now via WhatsApp +84 97 511 9466 or book directly here. Your lantern-lit Hoi An evening is calling!
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SJourney
Hotline (Phone/whatsapp): +84-975-119-466
Email: inquiry@vietnamluxuryexpress.com
Head office: No. 15/52 Giang Van Minh, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
The Travel Story Team is the editorial group behind Vietnam Luxury Express – passionate storytellers and travel enthusiasts dedicated to sharing the art of luxury train journeys across Vietnam.
