Two train journeys in Vietnam have been voted among the world's 20 most scenic train trips in 2026 by readers of Condé Nast Traveler (USA). Vietnam Central Heritage Connection, operating on the Hue–Da Nang route, ranked 10th, while The Vietage by Anantara ranked 14th. The recognition highlights the appeal of rail journeys that combine scenic landscapes, cultural experiences, and leisure travel.
The list, The Best Train Trips in the World: 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, is part of the 39th annual Readers’ Choice Awards organized by Condé Nast Traveler, based on 798,867 votes for travel experiences worldwide.
According to the magazine, the appeal of train travel lies not only in transporting passengers from one destination to another, but also in the opportunity to admire landscapes through the windows, experience local life, and enjoy the journey as an integral part of a holiday.
Ranked 10th on the list, Vietnam Central Heritage Connection links two Central Vietnamese cities rich in cultural heritage: Hue and Da Nang.
Launched in early 2024, the service takes approximately three hours to pass through distinctive landscapes, from the Tam Giang–Cau Hai Lagoon to Lang Co Bay and Hai Van Pass.
The journey offers a different perspective on Central Vietnam, where expansive waters, coastlines, and successive mountain ranges unfold beyond the train windows. Rather than viewing rail travel merely as a means of getting between destinations, passengers can take time to admire the scenery, relax, and appreciate the changing landscapes along the way.
Condé Nast Traveler also highlighted the fare of approximately USD 11 one way, described as the lowest among the journeys on the list. The train features quiet carriages for relaxation and two community carriages hosting traditional music and dance performances.
The combination of scenic views and cultural activities enhances the appeal of the Hue–Da Nang route for travelers seeking a leisurely way to explore Central Vietnam's heritage. While Hue and Da Nang are already well-known destinations, the rail journey creates an additional experience connecting the two cities while offering opportunities to enjoy the region's natural beauty throughout the trip.
Ranked 14th, The Vietage by Anantara represents a different approach: bringing premium hospitality to rail travel. The service connects Da Nang with Quy Nhon and Nha Trang along the Central Vietnamese coast, catering to passengers seeking to combine transportation with fine dining and private, exclusive surroundings.
On the approximately six-hour Da Nang–Quy Nhon journey, passengers are served a three-course meal inspired by Vietnamese and French cuisine. On the Quy Nhon–Nha Trang route, the afternoon tea experience showcases Vietnamese specialties, including caviar, Vietnamese cheese, and premium tea.
According to Condé Nast Traveler, the train's interiors feature an elegant design, with six private booths accommodating a maximum of 12 passengers. Light-colored wood, woven rattan, a marble bar, and large windows create a relaxing atmosphere, while views of rice fields, coastal areas, and Central Vietnam's mountain slopes unfold outside.
The inclusion of these two train journeys demonstrates the potential of Vietnam's railway sector to appeal to diverse groups of travelers, from those seeking affordable ways to explore landscapes and culture to visitors looking for premium holiday experiences. It also points to opportunities to develop rail tourism products that prioritize the onboard journey itself rather than focusing solely on departure and arrival destinations.
The presence of two Vietnamese journeys alongside renowned international rail experiences further highlights the potential for railway tourism development, particularly in regions with outstanding scenery and rich cultural heritage, such as Central Vietnam.