The train is my preferred means of transport and there are several buses a day running from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh.
Traveling from the cave kingdom of Dong Hoi to the imperial city of Hue is one of the most
rewarding short journeys in Vietnam. While there are several ways to make this trip, the train
remains our absolute favorite for its comfort, safety, and the beautiful window into Vietnamese
rural life it provides.
Why Choose the Train?
The journey takes roughly 3 hours. Compared to the local bus, the train offers more legroom,
air-conditioning, and the freedom to move around. It’s the perfect middle ground between
speed and cultural immersion.
- Distance: Approximately 160 km
- Duration: ~3 hours
- Price (Soft Seat): 140,000 VND (~8 CAD / 6 USD)
- Vibe: Scenic, Relaxed, Local
How to Buy Train Tickets from Dong Hoi to Hue
You have two main options for securing your seat:
- At the Station: We walked to the Dong Hoi ticket office the day before our departure. The staff was helpful, and the process was straightforward.
- Online: For peace of mind, you can book via official sites or reputable platforms like 12Go Asia. You’ll receive a QR code—no need to print anything!
You can buy the tickets online or go to the ticket office. We walked over to the ticket office the day before we wanted to leave. Buying the tickets was easy and we got reserved reclining seats. The tickets cost 140,000 VND each.
Our Experience on Board: The Train from Dong Hoi to Hue
We opted for “Soft Seats” (reserved reclining seats) in an air-conditioned carriage. The
train arrived at Dong Hoi station right on schedule (08:11 AM).
Vietnamese trains can get surprisingly chilly due to the AC. Keep a light jacket
or scarf in your daypack!
As the train rolls south, keep your eyes on the window. You’ll pass through lush rice paddies
and small villages. It’s a side of Vietnam you often miss from a highway bus.
Arriving in Hue
The train arrived punctually at 11:00 AM. Hue station is central, but if you have heavy
luggage, you can easily grab a Grab car or taxi outside. A ride to the main tourist area (Le Loi
street) usually costs around 30,000 – 50,000 VND.
Ready to explore Hue? Don’t miss our next post on what we did in the Imperial City!
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