New Heritage Tourist Train Connects Hue and Phong Nha Starting This August
Travelers planning their Vietnam travel itinerary have an exciting new option to look forward to this autumn. Starting August 28, Vietnam Railways will officially launch the scenic tourist train route titled "Imperial Citadel Hue - Phong Nha: Journey of Wonders - World Heritage Sites". Connecting the historic charm of Hue with the subterranean marvels of Quang Binh, this 190 km railway journey offers a smooth, eco-friendly, and culturally rich passage through Central Vietnam.
A Scenic Rail Journey Between Two World Heritage Hubs
The new train features 8 modern carriages designed specifically for sightseeing, including 5 carriages with 360-degree rotating soft seats, a VIP cabin, and a lively entertainment car. Passing through cultural hotspots such as Dong Ha, My Trach, Dong Hoi, and Tho Loc, passengers will enjoy flower-lined railway tracks, local OCOP product displays, and dedicated check-in spaces at each station.
• Train HQ2: Departs Hue Station at 07:15 AM and arrives at Tho Loc Station at 11:55 AM.
• Train HQ1: Departs Tho Loc Station at 01:15 PM and arrives back in Hue at 05:25 PM.
Why You Should Experience Hue & Quang Binh Travel
As the former imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, Hue remains a peaceful enclave of history, culture, and gastronomy. Any Hue travel trip should include visits to the iconic Imperial City (Citadel), royal tombs like Khai Dinh and Minh Mang, and the peaceful Thien Mu Pagoda alongside the Perfume River. Hue is also world-famous for its royal cuisine, including Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and delicate rice cakes like Banh Beo and Banh Nam.
At the northern terminus of the train line lies Quang Binh province, home to Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring some of the world's oldest karst mountains and largest caves. Essential Quang Binh travel highlights include exploring Paradise Cave, kayaking through Phong Nha Cave, experiencing the adventure trails of Dark Cave, or trekking inside the jaw-dropping Hang En and Son Doong systems.
Top Travel Tips for Exploring Hue and Phong Nha
Best Time to Visit: September to April brings pleasant temperatures for both walking around Hue’s historical sites and exploring the cool subterranean cave networks of Quang Binh.
Combine Rail with Local Tours: Take morning train HQ2 to arrive near Phong Nha by noon, check into your jungle eco-lodge, and start your cave trekking adventure that afternoon.
Pack Wisely: Bring comfortable walking shoes for Hue's historic paved grounds, light layers for the air-conditioned train ride, and quick-dry water gear for cave excursions in Phong Nha.
Book Ahead: Because seats with 360-degree views on the new heritage train are limited, reserve your tickets early through local tour specialists like Hanoitourist.