Day 1 : Saigon
This afternoon you will be met at your hotel and transferred to the VIP lounge at the train station to check-in for your journey. Once onboard, take some time to settle in and unwind before joining your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner as the train departs. The rhythmic motion of the train will lull you into a peaceful night’s sleep as the train heads north.
Day 2 : Phan Thiet
Arriving in the coastal port city of Phan Thiet this morning, you journey to tranquil Ta Cu Mountain, a revered spiritual site from the 18th century, with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. A visit to the fascinating Fish Sauce Museum, reveals the centuries-old production methods of this essential Vietnamese condiment, considered the soul of countless dishes. Enjoy lunch of local specialties at an oceanfront restaurant then visit the historic hilltop Poshanu Cham Towers, built by the ancient Cham civilization. Back on board this afternoon, glide northward through a landscape painted in golden hues as you enjoy a refined dinner of curated Vietnamese and international flavours.
Day 3 : Phu Yen
The day’s exploration begins after breakfast in the quiet heart of Phu Yen — a province where simplicity, tradition, and natural beauty converge. Your first stop is Mang Lang Church, a stunning relic of Gothic architecture that has stood gracefully for over a century. Continue to Phu Tan Mat Weaving Village, where generations of artisans have perfected the age-old craft of weaving mats from rush grass. Enjoy a lunch of fresh seafood specialties in the shaded calm of a local restaurant. Back on board, enjoy an afternoon of rest and reflection. Settle into your cabin, perhaps with a book in hand, or simply gaze through the wide windows as Phu Yen’s countryside gently recedes — rolling fields, distant mountains, and narrow village roads weaving together a final tapestry of the land you leave behind.
Day 4 : Hoi An
The day begins with a scenic jeep tour through Hoi An’s peaceful countryside to Au Lac Wood Art, the home of traditional craft of woodblock painting. Guided by skilled artisans, you’ll learn the intricate process of making your own design on wood. Continue to the Thanh Ha Pottery Village, where you can witness the craftsmanship of local potters and even try your hand at shaping your own ceramic creation. Lunch today is at a local house where dishes are crafted from the freshest locally-sourced ingredients.
This afternoon explore Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where centuries of history unfold with every step. Bustling Hoi An Market is a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and aromas. Browse stalls overflowing with silks, intricately carved handicrafts, and a dazzling array of exotic spices. Next visit the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall, an architectural gem adorned with mythical dragon statues and ornate rooftops. Discover the enduring practice of ancestor worship as you observe local devotees making offerings at the family altar. Then visit the remarkably preserved Phung Hung Ancient House or its counterpart, the Tan Ky Ancient House, once the homes of prosperous merchants. The iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An’s diverse heritage, was built over 400 years ago to connect the town’s Japanese and Chinese communities.
An afternoon at leisure lends itself to a browse through Hoi An’s renowned handicraft shops and art galleries. Venture off the beaten path, discovering hidden laneways and charming local neighborhoods before return to the train for an exquisite onboard dinner.
Day 5 : Hue
This morning embark on a captivating rail journey from historic Hue through the picturesque Hai Van Pass, then disembark to discover Hue’s imperial past on a rickshaw ride. At the Imperial Citadel, once the heart of the Nguyen Dynasty, towering ramparts, palaces, and sacred shrines recall the grandeur and solemnity of Vietnam’s imperial past. Wandering through delicate gardens and viewing artifacts like the emperor’s throne and royal robes, you feel history unfolding.
Continue by private van to Tu Duc Mausoleum, a poetic retreat nestled among pine-covered hills — a reflection of an emperor’s yearning for peace and timeless beauty. On to Hue’s Incense Village, where artisans shape cinnamon, agarwood, and lotus-infused incense with skillful hands. Try your hand at crafting incense or weaving a conical hat from lotus leaves, then enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where Hue’s cuisine — blending royal elegance and rustic authenticity — offers a feast for the senses.
Back on board the scenery shifts: the Perfume River, mossy pagodas, and solemn mountains slowly fade from view.
Day 6 : Quang Binh
This morning disembark in the heart of Quang Binh, a region renowned for its dramatic natural beauty. Embark on a journey to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where primeval landscapes unfold. Lush mountains frame the serene Son River, their reflections dancing on the water’s surface. Step aboard a boat for a tranquil voyage along the Son River. Drift along Phong Nha Cave’s subterranean river, marveling at the intricate formations of stalactites and stalagmites sculpted by time.
Back on board this afternoon, enjoy a home-style dinner in the serene setting of endless rice paddies. If you wish, join in a demonstration Vietnamese cooking class and enjoy your culinary creations in this idyllic setting. Later this evening the train departs for Ninh Binh.
Day 7 : Ninh Binh
Awaken to the splendor of Ninh Binh as dawn unfurls. After breakfast embark on a sampan journey through Trang An’s emerald waters amidst the grandeur of towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery. Arriving at Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, stepping back in time amidst the dramatic limestone peaks, where the legacy of the Dinh and Le dynasties lives on through temples and historical sites. Returning to the train, enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea and spend a peaceful time relaxing — perhaps playing a board game, reading a book, or enjoying other light activities.
Day 8 : Hanoi
This morning savour your final breakfast onboard as the train arrives at Hanoi train station. Depending on your flight timings, you will be transferred to your hotel in Hanoi city center, or to the airport for your onward flight.
This journey also operates in the reverse direction.
