The Central Vietnam heritage train has been ranked 10th in a list of the world’s 20 most popular rail journeys for 2026, voted for by readers of the US travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler, according to Luong Xuan Thuong, director of the Dong Hoi railway transport branch of the Vietnam Railway Corporation.
The tourist service began operating in March 2024. On March 26, it received a new look, featuring upgraded, luxurious interiors inspired by the cultural heritage of Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital, and Hoi An ancient town.
Each train has five air-conditioned carriages fitted with soft seats that can rotate 180 degrees to face the direction of travel. A premium carriage has 32 seats facing the sea, allowing passengers to enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery along the route.
The central heritage tourist train has ranked among the world's top 10 most popular rail journeys (Photo: Vi Thao).
During the approximately three-hour journey, passengers can take in the Tam Giang-Cau Hai lagoon system, Lang Co Bay and the spectacular Hai Van Pass. They can also enjoy live cultural performances and local specialities from Hue and Danang.
The railway sector has also focused on improving passenger comfort by providing premium waiting lounges at Hue and Danang stations.
“To offer more distinctive travel experiences, the railway sector recently launched a service connecting Hue, the former imperial capital, with Phong Nha in Quang Tri Province, linking world heritage sites,” Thuong said. “A steam locomotive service is also expected to begin operating along the Hai Van Pass route in the coming period.”
Vietnam Railways will operate two return services a day between Hue and Danang on the Central Vietnam heritage route.
In 2024, the train topped a list of nine outstanding tourism products in Hue city.
Since the service’s refurbishment, the heritage trains have carried 215,000 passengers, a 40 per cent increase compared with the same period previously. International passenger numbers have risen particularly sharply, climbing by more than 70 per cent compared with the same period in 2025.