Complete guide to taking the Ninh Binh to Hoi An train
Traveling by train is one of the most scenic and relaxing ways to experience Vietnam, and the Ninh Binh to Hoi An train journey is no exception. With charming countryside views and a comfortable ride, this route is perfect for those who prefer a slower, more immersive way to travel. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best train routes, updated ticket prices, seat and berth options, as well as practical tips to help you plan your trip with ease.
Is there a direct train from Ninh Binh to Hoi An?
If you’re planning a trip from Ninh Binh to Hoi An and wondering whether there’s a direct train between the two destinations, the short answer is: there is no direct train from Ninh Binh to Hoi An.
The reason is that Hoi An is not located on Vietnam’s North–South railway line and currently does not have its own train station. The railway only passes through key stations in Quang Nam Province and Da Nang City, these are the two nearest stations to Hoi An.
Therefore, to reach Hoi An by train, you’ll need to choose one of the following options:
- Book a train ticket from Ninh Binh Railway Station to Da Nang Railway Station, then continue by bus, taxi, or shuttle from Da Nang to Hoi An (about 30 km).
- Or book a ticket from Ninh Binh Railway Station to Tam Ky Railway Station (Quang Nam), then travel by road from Tam Ky to Hoi An (about 50 km).
Both options are viable and commonly chosen by travelers. However, Da Nang Station is more popular because it offers more train schedules and a wider range of connecting transport options to Hoi An compared to Tam Ky.
How to travel from Ninh Binh to Hoi An by train?
Although there’s no direct train running all the way from Ninh Binh to Hoi An, you can still easily make the journey by combining a scenic train ride and a short road trip. Many travelers love this route because it’s affordable, relaxing, and a great way to experience Vietnam’s countryside. Below is the complete step-by-step guide you can follow to plan and enjoy your ninh binh to hoi train trip.
Option 1: Ninh Binh → Da Nang Railway Station → Hoi An
For most travelers, this is the smartest way to take the ninh binh to hoi an train. It’s straightforward, affordable, and gives you plenty of onward transport options once you arrive in Da Nang.
Your journey begins at Ninh Binh Railway Station, located in the city center. From here, you can board one of the daily southbound trains to Da Nang. The ride takes approximately 13–14 hours. There are both daytime and overnight trains available. The three most common options are:
| Train | Departure time | Arrival time | Duration | Price range |
| SE7 | 09:46 | 23:12 | ~13.5h | ~ 646.000 – 1.530.000 |
| SE3 | 21:35 | 10:36 (+1) | ~13h | ~ 960.000 – 1.560.000 |
| SE19 | 21:55 | 11:45 (+1) | ~13.8h | ~ 1.560.000 – 1.630.000 |
When you arrive at Da Nang railway station, you will be about 30 km from Hoi An. From the station, it’s easy to reach Hoi An by taxi, public bus, or private car. A taxi is the fastest option, taking around 45 minutes, while the bus is more budget-friendly but slightly slower.
This route via Da Nang railway station to Hoi An is simple, with frequent trains and plenty of connecting transport options, making it the most recommended choice for traveling by train from Ninh Binh to Hoi An.
Option 2: Ninh Binh → Tam Ky Railway Station → Hoi An
If you’d like to try a different route or find that tickets to Da Nang are sold out, you can choose to travel by train to Tam Ky Railway Station instead. This station is closer to Hoi An than Da Nang, however, transportation options from Tam Ky to Hoi An are more limited. Starting from Ninh Binh Railway Station, you’ll board the southbound train for around 14–15 hours to reach Tam Ky.
From there, you’ll need to continue your journey by taxi or private car to get to central Hoi An. This route still offers a scenic journey along Vietnam’s iconic North–South railway, making it an interesting experience.
Below is a detailed table showing each train, the available seat/berth types, and their approximate price ranges so you can easily compare and choose:
| Train | Departure time | Arrival time | Duration | Price range |
| SE7 | 09:46 | 23:58 | ~13.5h | ~ 655,000 – 1,560,000 |
| SE3 | 21:35 | 12:47(+1) | ~13h | ~ 970,000 – 1.570.000 |
| SE19 | 21:55 | 11:40(+1) | ~13.8h | ~ 1.570.000 – 1.630.000 |
Overall, the ticket prices on the Tam Ky route are not significantly different from the Da Nang route. However, the cost of continuing onward from Tam Ky to Hoi An is higher, as the distance is still about 50 km and the only options are taxis or private cars. A taxi from Tam Ky to Hoi An usually costs 500,000–600,000 VND per car and takes around 1 hour. This route is a good alternative if you want to try something different or if Da Nang tickets are unavailable, but for travelers who prioritize convenience, the Da Nang route remains the more practical option.
Tips & Things to keep in mind when taking the train from Ninh Binh to Hoi An
Taking the train from Ninh Binh to Hoi An is a comfortable and scenic way to travel, but since there’s no direct train to Hoi An itself, a little planning can make your journey smoother. Below are some practical tips to keep in mind before you go:
- First, decide whether you want to travel via Da Nang Railway Station or Tam Ky Railway Station. The Da Nang route is more popular because it offers more train options, better schedules, and easier onward transportation to Hoi An. Tam Ky is an alternative if Da Nang tickets are sold out, but you’ll have fewer options for taxis and a longer road transfer at a higher cost.
- When booking your train ticket, it’s highly recommended to reserve in advance, especially during weekends, holidays, or the summer months. You can book directly at the station, but online platforms are more convenient and allow you to choose your preferred seat or berth type. For a journey of 13–15 hours, choosing a soft sleeper cabin (4-berth if your budget allows) is worth the extra cost for comfort and privacy.
- Be sure to arrive at Ninh Binh Railway Station at least 30–45 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and finding your carriage. Keep your ticket and passport handy, as staff may check them when boarding and during the journey. Bring some light snacks, water, and entertainment (like a book or music) as food choices on the train can be limited and the trip is long.
- Finally, once you arrive at either Da Nang or Tam Ky, plan your onward transfer to Hoi An in advance if possible. Taxis are plentiful in Da Nang, but in Tam Ky you may want to pre-arrange a car service through your hotel or an online platform to avoid waiting.
After such a long journey, you’ll definitely want a place to rest and recharge as soon as you arrive. So don’t forget to book your accommodation in Hoi An in advance to ensure you have a comfortable stay waiting for you. If you’re looking for the perfect blend of relaxation and luxury, consider staying at Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness — a serene beachfront retreat where you can unwind, rejuvenate, and fully enjoy your time in Hoi An.
By following these simple tips, your Ninh Binh to Hoi An train trip will be much more enjoyable and stress-free. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the charming countryside views along one of Vietnam’s most iconic railway routes!
Read more: A complete guide for your Hanoi to Hoi An train journey
Taking the Ninh Binh to Hoi An train is a memorable journey that combines comfort, affordability, and the chance to soak in Vietnam’s beautiful landscapes. Whether you choose the convenient Da Nang route or the alternative Tam Ky option, proper planning and the right seat selection can make all the difference. Book your tickets early, follow our tips, and get ready to enjoy a smooth and pleasant ride to the charming town of Hoi An.
