Top Sleeper Train Companies in Vietnam 2025 (Our Favorites!)

Hey friends 👋, we're Liam & Sarah from Two Peas Abroad!

Since moving to Vietnam in 2023, we've racked up countless overnight journeys on sleeper trains, testing routes from Hanoi to Sapa to the epic Reunification Express. We've hopped on and off at almost every station, tried all the different cabins, and found the best companies for comfort and reliability.

Trains cost more than buses, but the extra space, privacy, and scenic views make them unbeatable for a memorable trip. Not all trains are equal, comfort varies A LOT by operator and cabin type.

We typically book all of our sleeper trains via 12Go since they make it so easy to find the best ones. Here are our top picks, plus tips to make your journey smooth!

Sleeper Train vs. Sleeper Bus

Sleeper trains offer more space and privacy than buses, with lockable cabins, cleaner toilets, and comfier beds. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups wanting a relaxed ride. They're pricier, often double the cost of buses, but worth it for the extra comfort and scenic vibes.

Buses suit budget travelers or shorter routes, with frequent stops and varying amenities (see our Top Sleeper Bus Companies in Vietnam). Sleeper trains definitely win for comfort and scenic vibes, especially on iconic routes or if you're in a group.

Choosing Your Sleeper Train Cabin

Vietnam's sleeper trains offer different berth types, each with its own vibe:

• Soft Sleeper (4-Berth): Air-conditioned cabin with 4 padded bunks (2 upper, 2 lower), lockable door, reading lights, and bedding. Ideal for small groups or solo travelers sharing with others.
• Soft Sleeper (2-Berth): Cozier cabins with 2 bunks, perfect for couples or friends wanting exclusivity. Available on luxury trains (We've shared our favorites below)
• Hard Sleeper (6-Berth): Cheaper, with 6 bunks and less privacy. Best for budget solo travelers but can feel cramped.
• Soft/Hard Seats: Budget-friendly but not ideal for overnight. Crowded, noisy, no beds.
• Double beds: Some luxury trains even offer full double bedrooms on board.

Pro Tip: If you're a group of 3 consider booking the whole 4-berth cabin for extra privacy. Total game-changer for spreading out and relaxing, you can even use the extra bed for additional storage.

Main Sleeper Train Routes in Vietnam

Vietnam's sleeper trains are perfect for scenic, comfortable travel. We've broken down the two main routes below, with a special focus on the Reunification Express's popular stops and segments for first-timers!

Hanoi to Sapa (via Lao Cai)

An 8-hour overnight journey through northern Vietnam's mountains to Lao Cai station, the gateway to Sapa's terraced rice fields, local hiking trails and cool climate. Ideal for nature lovers, backpackers, or anyone seeking a scenic escape. Luxury trains like Chapa Express offer luxury suites and cabins with lounges, while standard options like Sapaly Express provide cozy, budget-friendly beds.

Reunification Express: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

This 30-40 hour coastal adventure is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups seeking private cabins for a multi-day adventure. Most book shorter segments to explore each region as travel down Vietnam. Key stops include:

• Hanoi: The chaotic capital packed with culture, history, and local markets.
• Ninh Binh: Limestone cliffs, ancient temples, and incredible boat rides (~2-3 hours from Hanoi).
• Hue: Historic imperial city with the Citadel and royal tombs (~12-14 hours from Hanoi).
• Da Nang: Golden beaches and a gateway to Hoi An's lantern-lit streets (~16-18 hours from Hanoi).
• Ho Chi Minh City: Lively southern hub with the best nightlife and lots of history (~30-40 hours from Hanoi or ~17-18 hours from Da Nang).

Don't want the full journey? Popular routes like Hanoi to Hue (~12-14 hours), Hanoi to Da Nang (~16-18 hours), or Da Nang to HCMC (~16-20 hours) let you hop off to explore each area at your own pace.

Route Map:

You can use our map below to visualize the Reunification Express route from Hanoi to HCMC, highlighting key stops to help you plan. Perfect for visualizing your trip!

Common Questions About Sleeper Trains in Vietnam

Luggage Allowance:

Typically 20-30kg per person stored under the beds, plus a typical backpack-sized carry-on. Pro Tip: You can leave your bags at Hanoi station for $2/bag for 4-8 hours while waiting for your train.

Onboard Facilities:

All trains have charging plugs, toilets and dining cars or trolleys with snacks and drinks. Luxury options add food and WiFi, patchy but handy.

Safety:

Trains are safer than buses, especially since you have access to a lockable room. Secure valuables, expect some bumps, and stick to reputable companies like the ones below.

Tips:

Book early for peak seasons (Dec–Apr). AC can be cold, worth packing an extra layer in your carry-on. Stations can be hectic; arrive 1 hour early. Platforms often involve stairs, so travelers with mobility issues may prefer buses or flights. Compare with buses via our sleeper bus guide.

Hanoi to Sapa: Chapa Express

Duration: ~8 hours
Style: Super luxury sleeper
Vibe: Relaxing, Luxury, Mountain Views

Chapa Express is one of the most comfortable trains we've ever taken. Offering 4-bed cabins, 2-bed cabins, and double bed rooms with lounges, it's perfect for couples or groups. WiFi, chargers, clean toilets, and a dining trolley with coffee and snacks make it a dream. We loved watching the misty hills roll by. Ideal for hikers heading to Sapa. Worth every penny!

👉 View Chapa Express Trains

Hanoi to Sapa: Sapaly Express

Duration: ~8 hours
Style: Premium sleeper
Vibe: Cozy, adventurous

Sapaly Express offers comfy 4-bed and 2-bed cabins with clean bedding, AC, and toilets. No lounges like Chapa, but it's a solid, budget-friendly option. We found it runs on time and is perfect for solo travelers or small groups heading to Sapa's trails on a budget.

👉 View Sapaly Express Trains

Reunification Express (Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Hue, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City)

Laman Express

Duration: Depends on route
Style: Luxury sleeper
Vibe: Premium, leisurely

Laman Express offers upscale 4-bed and 2-bed cabins with comfortable bedding and more attentive service than others. Onboard dining and clean toilets make it a premium pick. Perfect for a leisurely longer journey from Hanoi to Da Nang.

👉 View Laman Express Trains

Lotus Trains

Duration: Depends on route
Style: Modern sleeper
Vibe: Relaxed, scenic

Lotus Train provides 4-bed and 2-bed cabins with WiFi and chargers. More affordable than Laman Express, it's great for mid-budget travelers. Reliable service and stunning coastal views from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City. We loved their snack trolley on our last ride!

👉 View Lotus Trains

Violette Express

Duration: Depends on route
Style: Classic sleeper
Vibe: Budget

Violette Trains offer 4-bed cabins, perfect for groups or solo travelers. Clean toilets, dining carts with snacks, and decent beds to make the long haul comfy. The cabins are very basic, you'll definitely hear the tracks and feel some of the bumps, but the cheaper price tag makes up for it.

👉 View Violette Express Trains

Final Thoughts

We've ridden countless sleeper trains across Vietnam. Trains beat buses for comfort and views, especially for those wanting private cabins. For budget options, check our sleeper bus guide. Safe travels, and enjoy exploring Vietnam!