Experience The Sjourney – Vietnam Luxury Express Sleeper Train

For decades, the “Reunification Express” has been the romantic artery of Vietnam, connecting the misty mountains of the North to the vibrant delta of the South. But in 2025, the concept of rail travel has been reimagined. Travelers no longer have to sacrifice comfort for adventure. The emergence of the Vietnam Railways VIP sleeper category has transformed the humble train ride into a rolling 5-star hotel.

If you are searching for the ultimate way to witness Vietnam’s diverse landscapes—from emerald rice paddies and limestone karsts to azure coastlines—without the hassle of airports, then a luxury overnight train in Vietnam is your answer. Leading this revolution is The Sjourney Train (operated by Vietnam Luxury Express), a service that promises not just a seat, but a story.

Luxury Overnight Trains Vietnam: A New Era of Rail Travel

The term “luxury” in Vietnamese rail travel used to simply mean a soft berth and air conditioning. Today, it means something entirely different. The market has shifted towards “slow travel,” where the journey itself is the destination. Luxury overnight trains in Vietnam are now designed to evoke the nostalgia of the 1920s Indochine era, blending colonial elegance with modern sophistication.

This resurgence is driven by a desire for deeper connection. When you fly from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, you see clouds. When you take a first class sleeper train in Vietnam, you see the soul of the country. You witness local life unfolding in backyards, water buffalo grazing in fields, and the sun rising over untouched beaches. It is a cinematic experience that plays out right outside your window.

First Class Sleeper Train Vietnam: What Defines True Luxury?

Before booking your ticket, it is essential to understand the tiers of train travel. Standard Vietnam Railways trains offer “Soft Sleepers” (4-berth cabins), which are comfortable but basic. The next step up includes private charter carriages like the Laman Express or Lotus Train, which offer upgraded decor and softer bedding attached to standard trains.

However, the true Vietnam Railways VIP sleeper experience, exemplified by The Sjourney, offers a level of exclusivity that was previously unavailable. True luxury on the rails includes:

• Privacy: Private cabins for two, not shared with strangers.

• Ensuite Facilities: The rarest luxury on a train—a private bathroom inside your cabin.

• Fine Dining: A dedicated restaurant car serving gourmet meals, not just pre-packed noodles.

• Service: Butler-style service where staff anticipate your needs, from turndown service to morning coffee.

The Sjourney Train: A Masterpiece on Rails

Among the contenders for the title of best luxury overnight train in Vietnam, The Sjourney Train (Vietnam Luxury Express) stands in a league of its own. Unlike standard trains that simply move you from point A to point B, The Sjourney offers a “land cruise” concept. It is a comprehensive vacation on rails, designed for travelers who want to unpack once and explore the entire country in seamless comfort.

Indochine Elegance: Inside the Cabins

Stepping aboard The Sjourney is like stepping onto a film set. The design pays homage to the 1920s Indochine style, a harmonious fusion of French colonial architecture and Vietnamese traditional art. The interiors are adorned with warm wood paneling, brocade textiles, and handcrafted details that exude warmth and nostalgia.

The Sjourney offers two primary cabin types, both redefining the Vietnam Railways VIP sleeper standard:

1. The Twin Cabin: A cozy haven featuring two plush single beds, perfect for friends or travel companions.

2. The Double Cabin: A romantic retreat with a spacious double bed, ideal for couples.

Crucially, both cabin types feature private ensuite bathrooms, wardrobes, and mini-bars. In the world of train travel, having your own private shower and toilet is the ultimate luxury.

Gastronomy & Culture: The Bistro Car Experience

On a standard train, dining is often an afterthought. On The Sjourney, it is a highlight. The Bistro Car is the social heart of the train, a 24/7 luxurious dining venue capable of seating over 60 guests.

Here, the culinary team curates an ever-changing menu that reflects the landscapes passing by outside. As you travel through Hue, you might enjoy Royal Court cuisine; as you pass the coast, fresh seafood takes center stage. The experience is elevated further by exclusive cultural performances. Imagine sipping a cocktail while watching a traditional Vietnamese dance or listening to folk music—an immersive cultural experience that happens without you ever leaving the train.

Signature Routes & Itineraries

The Sjourney operates several itineraries, catering to different timeframes and interests. Below are the detailed highlights of their most popular journeys.

1. Southbound Legacy (8 Days / 7 Nights)

The ultimate “Grand Tour” from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

• Day 1: Hanoi – The Grand Departure

  • Experience: VIP Welcome at the station. Board the train and enjoy a welcome dinner as you cross the historic Long Bien Bridge, leaving the city lights behind for the countryside.

• Day 2: Ninh Binh – The Ancient Kingdom

  • Experience: Disembark to explore Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex (UNESCO site). Enjoy a sampan boat ride through limestone caves and visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital.

• Day 3: Quang Binh – Kingdom of Caves

  • Experience: Venture into Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Cruise the Son River to witness the spectacular stalactites of Phong Nha Cave.

• Day 4: Hue – The Imperial City

  • Experience: A rickshaw ride through the Citadel, followed by a visit to Tu Duc Tomb. Participate in an incense-making workshop at a traditional village.

• Day 5: Da Nang & Hoi An – Heritage Road

  • Experience: Wake up to the breathtaking view of the train climbing the Hai Van Pass. Visit a wood art village and explore the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An Ancient Town.

• Day 6: Phu Yen – Coastal Serenity

  • Experience: Visit the Gothic-style Mang Lang Church and witness traditional mat weaving at Phu Tan village. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch by the coast.

• Day 7: Phan Thiet – Cham Culture & Sand Dunes

  • Experience: Visit the Poshanu Cham Towers and Ta Cu Mountain. Learn about the region’s famous fish sauce production before a farewell dinner.

• Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City – Arrival

  • Experience: Enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarking at Saigon Station, ready for your next adventure.

2. Trail of the Dragon’s Back (4 Days / 3 Nights)

A concentrated journey through the dramatic landscapes of the North.

• Day 1: Hanoi – Journey to the Highlands

  • Experience: Depart Hanoi in the evening. Enjoy a gourmet dinner on board as the train winds its way toward the mountains.

• Day 2: Sapa – Roof of Indochina

  • Experience: Arrive in Lao Cai. Take the mountain train and cable car to the summit of Fansipan Mountain. Visit Lao Chai village to see the famous terraced rice fields and meet the Black Hmong people.

• Day 3: Ha Long Bay & Lan Ha Bay – Wonders of the Sea

  • Experience: Transfer to a luxury cruise to sail through the limestone pillars of Lan Ha Bay (the quieter neighbor of Ha Long). Enjoy kayaking, swimming, and a sunset party on deck before returning to the train.

• Day 4: Hanoi – Return

  • Experience: Breakfast on board as you roll back into the capital, concluding your loop of the North.

Pre & Post-Tour Ideas: Elevating the Experience

For the high-end traveler, the train journey is the centerpiece, but the beginning and end should be equally spectacular.

Pre-Tour Ideas: Hanoi (The Elegant Start)

• Scenic Seaplane Flight: Before boarding the train, take a 25-minute scenic seaplane flight from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay and back. Seeing the limestone karsts from the air offers a completely different perspective than the train or boat.

• Capella Hanoi Stay: Spend a night at the Capella Hanoi, designed by Bill Bensley. It is located steps from the Opera House and offers a theatrical 1920s vibe that perfectly sets the mood for your Indochine-style train journey.

• Private Street Food Tour with a Chef: Skip the tourist traps. Hire a renowned local chef for a private evening tour to taste Pho and Bun Cha in hidden alleys, learning the culinary secrets you will later taste on the train.

Post-Tour Ideas: Ho Chi Minh City (The Vibrant Finale)

• Vespa After Dark: After the slow pace of the train, embrace the energy of Saigon. Join a Vespa Adventures tour (private charter) to zip between rooftop bars and jazz clubs, seeing the city the way locals do.

• Sunset Cruise on the Saigon River: Board a private yacht for a sunset cruise. Sip champagne as you drift past the illuminated skyline, contrasting the historic train journey with the modern face of Vietnam.

• Wellness Retreat at The Reverie: After 8 days on the rails, book a “Spa Suite” at The Reverie Saigon. It is arguably the most opulent hotel in the city, offering high-tech treatments to rejuvenate you before your flight home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Does The Sjourney Train have Wi-Fi?

A: Yes, the train is equipped with Wi-Fi, though connection speeds may vary depending on the remoteness of the region (especially near the Hai Van Pass or Phong Nha).

Q2: Is food included in the ticket price?

A: Yes, on The Sjourney, gourmet meals in the Bistro Car are part of the package. This typically includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with selected house beverages.

Q3: Are the cabins private?

A: Absolutely. Whether you book a Twin or Double cabin, you have the entire space to yourself, including a private ensuite bathroom. You do not share with strangers.

Q4: Is there a dress code?

A: Smart casual is recommended for dinner in the Bistro Car to match the elegant atmosphere. During excursions, comfortable walking clothes are best.

Q5: How does this compare to the Reunification Express?

A: There is no comparison. The Reunification Express is public transportation. The Sjourney is a luxury tourism product with hotel-standard service, private amenities, and curated experiences.

Book Your Ticket to a Timeless Journey

Vietnam is a country that deserves to be savored, not rushed. By choosing a Vietnam Railways VIP sleeper experience like The Sjourney Train, you are not just booking transportation; you are booking a front-row seat to the beauty of Indochina.

From the moment you step aboard and are greeted by the warm wood tones of your private cabin, to the final sunset you watch over the rice fields from the Bistro Car, this is travel as it was meant to be: elegant, leisurely, and unforgettable. So, skip the airport queues and let the rhythm of the rails guide you through the heart of Vietnam.

For bookings and detailed itineraries, please drop us an email.