Hue to Phong Nha: The New Train Route Showcasing Central Vietnam’s Heritage Sites

About The Train

Photo credit: Vietnam News Agency

Starting September 1, 2026, a new Hue–Phong Nha train route will begin operations, connecting two of Central Vietnam’s most iconic heritage destinations.

The 190-km journey starts at Hue station and finishes at Tho Loc station, just 22 km (13.7 miles) from Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park. Not only does this new train offer your clients a scenic new way to explore Vietnam on the ground, but it also cuts the travel distance to Phong Nha by almost half compared to arriving by air via Dong Hoi airport.

The train runs daily in both directions, departing from Hue and Tho Loc stations:

With a maximum capacity of 304 passengers, the train features five economy cabins with 360-degree rotating seats, one VIP cabin, one communal cabin, and one entertainment cabin. Contact us for any questions regarding this new product!

What’s In Between Hue and Phong Nha?

The Hue-Phong Nha train makes three stops along the way, calling at Dong Ha, Dong Hoi, and My Trach. This opens up the option for your clients to make a stop in Dong Ha and explore Quang Tri province, a lesser-known destination to many Western travelers. We recommend visiting the Quang Tri Ancient Citadel and the Vinh Moc Tunnels.

Quang Tri Ancient Citadel

Photo credit: MiaVN & Lao Dong News

During the Nguyen Dynasty, Vietnam’s final feudal reign, the Quang Tri Ancient Citadel served as one of the kingdom’s key defence hubs and a major subordinate to the Hue Imperial Citadel, with an original circumference of 2 km. In 1929, the French colonial administration built prisons within the citadel to detain political prisoners. Tragically, much of the original citadel was destroyed in 1972 during one of the bloodiest battles of the American War (known internationally as the Vietnam War). Today, the Quang Tri Ancient Citadel stands as one of the enduring symbols of Vietnam’s history and resilience.

Vinh Moc Tunnels

Photo credit: vietnam.vn

The Vinh Moc Tunnels are a tunnel system inspired by the famous Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City. Built and used during the American War, the tunnels, pans over 2km, played a strategic role due to their location along what was then the border between North and South Vietnam. For clients who may not have time to visit southern Vietnam, the Vinh Moc Tunnels are a compelling alternative to the Cu Chi Tunnels. From the Vinh Moc Tunnels travelers can also visit the former Vietnam DMZ, located just 10km away.

Why not add a Phong Nha segment featuring this new train to your clients’ Vietnam itinerary like this 12-day Charming Vietnam tour?

Or looking to craft something unique that includes off-the-beaten-path stops like Quang Tri? Let us help!

Source: Vietnam Government News

Read more on Hue and Quang Binh on our previous blogs!