What is the Hai Van Pass?
The Hai Van Pass is a stunning coastal mountain road that stretches between Da Nang and Hue, offering some of the most breathtaking views in Vietnam. Winding through lush hills and hugging the coastline, this pass has long been considered one of the most scenic routes in the country. It stands at 500 meters (1,640 feet) above sea level, providing panoramic views of the ocean on one side and dense jungle on the other. The pass was historically a major trade route and military strategic point, and today it remains a favorite for adventurous travelers exploring central Vietnam.
For a more in-depth guide on the Hai Van Pass, check out our dedicated article: Hai Van Pass Guide
Train vs. Road: Which is the better way to experience the Hai Van Pass?
If you’re planning to travel between Da Nang and Hue, both the train and road route offer unique experiences, each with its own advantages.
Taking the Road: Best for adventure & sightseeing
Traveling by road is the most flexible and exciting way to experience the Hai Van Pass. Whether you rent a scooter, join an Easy Rider motorbike tour, or book a private car or military jeep, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at stunning viewpoints along the way. Besides the Hai Van Pass itself, a road trip allows you to visit Lang Co Beach, Marble Mountains, and fishing villages—places the train doesn’t stop at. However, keep in mind that traveling by scooter, motorbike, or an open jeep isn’t ideal in bad weather, as the roads can be slippery and visibility reduced.
Taking the Train: Best for Scenic Views & Relaxation
If you’re a train enthusiast or just want a more relaxing way to take in the scenery, the train over the Hai Van Pass is a great option. This is considered one of the most scenic railway journeys in Vietnam, offering uninterrupted views of the coastline, mountains, and jungle. While you won’t be able to stop for photos like on a road trip, you can sit back and enjoy the ride without worrying about traffic. The train is also a great alternative if you’ve already done the road trip before or if you’re traveling during cloudy or rainy weather, when the views from the road might be obstructed.
Ultimately, if you want the most immersive experience, the road is the better choice, but if you prefer a relaxed journey with breathtaking views, the train is a fantastic alternative.
The train journey from Hue to Da Nang
Taking the train between Hue and Da Nang is not just a way to travel—it’s an experience in itself. This is not a special tourist train but a section of the North-South Reunification Line, meaning all trains running between the south and north of Vietnam pass through this scenic route. With breathtaking coastal views along the Hai Van Pass, the train ride offers one of the most stunning railway journeys in Vietnam.
The journey’s length depends on the train. The fastest train, SE1, takes just under 2.5 hours, while slower ones take a little longer. There’s also the Heritage Train, designed more for sightseeing, which takes over 3 hours. Keep in mind that some sections of the Hai Van Pass are single-track, so trains may need to stop to allow others to pass, which can cause occasional delays.
The views along the train ride
The route offers an incredible variety of landscapes, making it one of the most scenic train rides in Southeast Asia.
- From Hue: The journey starts with rice fields and rural villages, showcasing the peaceful countryside of central Vietnam.
- Lang Co Beach: Before reaching the Hai Van Pass, the train runs along the stunning Lang Co Bay, offering breathtaking views of the turquoise water, fishing boats, and white sandy beaches.
- Hai Van Pass: As the train climbs into the mountains, you’ll pass through lush jungle, coastal cliffs, and tunnels with uninterrupted views of the South China Sea.
- Da Nang Arrival: After the pass, the train gradually descends into Da Nang, where you’ll start to see the city skyline.
Booking the train from Hue to Da Nang
Since all trains between north and south Vietnam pass through the Hai Van Pass, this route is well-connected with multiple departures per day. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when booking.
Day vs. night trains
- Avoid night trains for this route, as you’ll miss the scenery. Night trains are great for long distances (like Hanoi to Hue or Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh), but for this short trip, a daytime train is the best option.
Types of seats & cabins
- Soft seats vs. hard seats → Always book soft seats for comfort.
- Sleeper cabins → Not really necessary for a short journey, but useful for long-distance travel.
- 4-berth vs. 6-berth cabins → If booking a sleeper for a longer route, go for the 4-berth cabins for more space.
Where to sit for the best views
- From Hue to Da Nang → Sit on the left side for the best coastal views.
- From Da Nang to Hue → Sit on the right side for the best views.
- If booking a sleeper cabin, from Hue to Da Nang, you can see the views from your berth. From Da Nang to Hue, you’ll need to stand in the aisle to get a clear view.
How to book train tickets
- Train station → You can book at the station, but this is last-minute and risky, especially in high season.
- Official website of Vietnam Railways → https://vr.com.vn/en (cheapest but harder to navigate).
- Agents & Booking Websites → Websites like 12GoAsia, Baolau, and travel agents offer easier booking with seat selection. Slightly more expensive due to added fees, but they also include tourist trains like the Heritage Train, which isn’t sold on Vietnam Railways’ website.
Pro Tip: If you want a private sleeper cabin, you can book all four berths even if you are traveling with fewer people.
The Heritage Train
For those looking for a more unique experience, the Heritage Train is a luxury tourist train designed specifically for sightseeing along the Hai Van Pass.
- Longer journey (over 3 hours) for a more relaxed experience.
- Beautifully decorated cabins with vintage-style interiors.
- Large windows and open-air sections for uninterrupted views.
- Includes snacks and drinks, unlike the standard Vietnam Railways trains.
This train is ideal for travelers who want a more premium experience and extra time to enjoy the landscapes. However, it is more expensive and less frequent than regular trains, so booking in advance is essential.
