How to Book an Overnight Sleeper Train in Vietnam

Step-by-Step Guide

So you’ve seen the viral TikToks — soft lights, cozy cabins, and that magical moment when you wake up to misty mountains outside your window — and now you’re wondering if you should try an overnight sleeper train in Vietnam. My answer? Absolutely, yes! This is one of my favourite ways to travel in southeast Asia ✨

There’s something so special about falling asleep to the rhythm of the tracks and waking up in a completely new city. It’s cozy, budget-friendly, and hands-down one of the most memorable ways to travel Vietnam. But… booking your first train can be confusing.

Don’t stress! After taking multiple overnight sleeper trains in Vietnam, I’ve learned exactly how to plan it. Here’s your ultimate step-by-step guide to booking your first overnight sleeper train like a pro.

Step 1: Pick the Right Route

Vietnam’s main train line — called the Reunification Express — runs the length of the country, connecting Hanoi in the north with Ho Chi Minh City in the south. It’s not the fastest way to travel, but it’s by far the most scenic.

And most importantly - the private cabins for 2 (most popular & best option IMO) are not available for all routes.

Here are some of my favorite overnight sleeper train Vietnam routes:

🌿 Hanoi → Da Nang or Hue – Coastal views, lush countryside, and a full overnight experience
🏖️ Ho Chi Minh City → Nha Trang – Perfect for beach-goers who want a comfy overnight ride

Shorter routes like Hue → Da Nang are great for daytime scenic rides, but if you want the full sleep-on-the-train-and-wake-up-somewhere-new vibe, go for an 8–16 hour route.

Step 2: Choose Your Cabin

In my opinion, the cabin you pick will completely shape your experience — whether it feels like a cozy travel adventure or a restless night with zero sleep and your experience REALLY depends on how well prepared you are.

There are a few main options that range from budget-friendly bunks to private 2 people cabins.

After multiple rides across Vietnam, I finally figured out which cabins are actually worth it, which ones to avoid, and how to make sure you don’t accidentally end up sitting upright for 12 hours.

👉 That’s exactly why I created my Overnight Train Guide — it breaks down each cabin type, with photos, pros and cons, comfort levels, and price ranges and EVERYTHING you need to know/bring with you to have the best experience possible.

If you want to skip the guesswork, grab my guide here — it’ll save you time, money, and possibly a sore back. 🙈

For now, just remember:

There are always seat-only options (even though you're travelling overnight)
Mid-range cabins are shared but comfy
Private options exist for major routes but will be more expensive

Step 3: Book the overnight sleeper train in Vietnam early (Like… Now)

VIP and 1st class cabins sell out fast, especially during peak season since there's only 4-5 cabins avaible per train. I always book my overnight sleeper train Vietnam tickets online through 12Go.asia.

I find it most convenient for booking train & bus routes across Southeast Asia — you can search routes, compare cabins, see reviews, and book securely in minutes.

How to book your overnight sleeper train in Vietnam:

Go to 12Go.asia
Enter your route and date
Pick your cabin (spend time checking photos/description of the cabin you're booking)
Pay online
Get your e-ticket via email (usually within 24 hours)

You can show your e-ticket on your phone — no need to print. Easy!

Step 4: Know the Prices (and What You’re Paying For)

Here’s a quick price breakdown per person (one-way) of what you should be paying in 2025-2026:

Cabin Type	Price (USD)	Experience
💺 2nd Class Seat	~$30	Basic, upright seat
🛏️ 2nd Class Sleeper	~$60	Shared 4-berth cabin
🌸 1st Class Sleeper	~$80–100	More comfort, less noise
🚪 VIP 2-Berth Cabin	~$90–150	Private cabin, premium vibes

Step 5: Boarding Day

Your e-ticket will have your train number, carriage, and seat. Bring your passport, show your ticket on your phone, and arrive at the station 30–45 minutes early to find your platform calmly.

Vietnam trains usually leave on time! Once you’re onboard, settle in, grab a snack, and get cozy — you’ve got a whole adventure waiting when you wake up.