The Hue–Da Nang heritage train crosses an arched bridge on Hai Van Pass. The route ranked among the world’s 10 most beautiful train journeys for 2026, according to Condé Nast Traveler. Photo: Tran Ngoc Tien
The Hue People’s Committee recently announced that the heritage train, known as the Vietnam Central Heritage Connection, ranked 10th in Condé Nast Traveler’s The Best Train Trips in the World: 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards.
Launched in early 2024, the service offers passengers a journey through central Vietnam, connecting the two cities rich in cultural, historical, and tourism attractions.
During the approximately-three-hour trip, passengers can admire the Tam Giang lagoon system, the Hai Bridge, Lang Co Bay, and Hai Van Pass.
The train features carriages for passengers to relax, as well as a communal space hosting traditional music and dance performances.
At 7:00 am, heritage trains depart from Hue and Da Nang Stations. In the afternoon, the two pairs of trains carry passengers in the opposite direction. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
Another communal carriage sells regional specialties, including banh mi, banh beo (steamed rice cakes topped with shrimp) and banh nam (flat steamed rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves), giving passengers a chance to sample central Vietnamese cuisine.
Two pairs of trains depart from Hue and Da Nang Stations each morning.
Both services stop for 10 minutes at Lang Co Station, located along Hai Van Pass, allowing passengers to get off, enjoy the scenery, and take photos.
In the afternoon, the trains operate in the opposite direction.
Traditional music performances take place aboard the central Vietnam heritage train, where musicians play traditional instruments and perform folk songs from the region. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
According to Condé Nast Traveler, a one-way ticket costs around US$11, placing the route among the more affordable options on the list.
The combination of scenic landscapes, onboard services, and local cultural experiences has helped make the journey an appealing way to explore central Vietnam by rail.
The train’s inclusion among the world’s 10 most beautiful rail journeys for 2026 is a positive development for tourism promotion in Hue City and the wider central region.
Heritage train staff welcome passengers at Hue Station. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
The recognition also highlights the potential for railway tourism that combines heritage, natural scenery, and local culture.
With its natural attractions and rich heritage, the Hue–Da Nang route has opportunities to further improve its services, expand its range of experiences, and attract more domestic and international tourists.
A passenger enjoys taking photos aboard the special train. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
Foreign tourists buy food and drinks aboard the central Vietnam heritage train. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
‘Banh mi’ is among the dishes enjoyed by foreign tourists aboard the train. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
A sightseeing area aboard the central Vietnam heritage train features European-inspired design. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
A foreign tourist reads a book and occasionally looks out at the scenery from the heritage train. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
Lap An Lagoon in Hue City is among the scenic lagoons along the train route. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
The heritage train stops at Lang Co Station in Hue City, allowing passengers to get off and enjoy the scenery or take photos. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
Two foreign tourists pose for photos with the central Vietnam heritage train. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
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