Two Vietnamese rail journeys have been voted among the world’s 20 best train trips for 2026 by readers of international travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler. Vietnam Central Heritage Connection, linking Hue and Da Nang, secured 10th place, further highlighting the appeal of Vietnam’s rail tourism on the international stage.
Two Vietnamese rail journeys recognized in the global rankings
As part of its 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, renowned US travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler announced The Best Train Trips in the World, celebrating 20 rail journeys chosen by readers worldwide.
Vietnam has two entries on the list: Vietnam Central Heritage Connection in 10th place and The Vietage by Anantara in 14th.
Their inclusion reflects the growing appeal of rail travel, where the journey itself becomes a distinctive tourism experience, combining natural scenery, local culture and services for visitors.
Vietnam Central Heritage Connection: A scenic journey between Hue and Da Nang
Ranked 10th, Vietnam Central Heritage Connection is presented by Condé Nast Traveler as one of Vietnam’s rail journeys worth experiencing.
Launched in March 2024, the service connects Hue and Da Nang, two destinations rich in culture, history and tourism attractions. Taking approximately three hours, the journey carries passengers through some of Central Vietnam’s most striking coastal and mountain landscapes.
A highlight is the stretch through Hai Van Pass, where the railway winds between forested mountains and the blue sea, revealing spectacular views. Through the train windows, passengers can admire Lang Co Bay, the Tam Giang–Cau Hai lagoon area, and a succession of coastal and mountain scenery.
Beyond its landscapes, the journey offers distinctive cultural experiences. According to Condé Nast Traveler, the train features communal spaces where passengers can enjoy traditional music and performing arts, bringing Central Vietnam’s cultural identity closer to domestic and international visitors.
The magazine also highlights the journey’s affordability, with a reference fare of approximately US$11 one way—the lowest among the rail trips featured on the list.
This combination of natural scenery, cultural experiences and accessible pricing gives Vietnam Central Heritage Connection its distinctive appeal, making the trip between Hue and Da Nang a memorable part of exploring Vietnam.
The Vietage by Anantara: A luxury rail experience through Central Vietnam
Image: The Vietage by Anantara
Alongside Vietnam Central Heritage Connection, The Vietage by Anantara secured 14th place on the 2026 list.
This luxury rail experience combines travel, relaxation, dining and scenic discovery through Central Vietnam. Connecting Da Nang, Quy Nhon and Nha Trang, its journeys take passengers past peaceful countryside, fields, villages and characteristic coastal landscapes.
The Vietage by Anantara places particular emphasis on privacy, personalized service and onboard dining. Passengers can enjoy elegantly designed surroundings while watching local life and natural landscapes unfold through expansive windows.
Its inclusion in the rankings further demonstrates the potential for high-quality rail tourism in Vietnam, catering to the increasingly diverse expectations of international visitors.
Rail tourism opens up new ways to experience Central Vietnam
The recognition of two Vietnamese rail journeys in the Condé Nast Traveler 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards is a positive development for tourism promotion in Vietnam, particularly in the central region.
Da Nang serves as a connecting destination for both recognized journeys, expanding the range of experiences available to visitors exploring Central Vietnam by rail.
From the heritage connection between Hue and Da Nang to luxury journeys along the central coast, each train offers a different way to discover the region. Passengers can enjoy the scenery, explore local culture and observe everyday life as they travel.
As travellers increasingly seek meaningful experiences and deeper connections with local destinations, rail tourism has further opportunities to become an appealing product, helping diversify tourism services, encourage longer journeys and strengthen links between destinations.
Recognition by Condé Nast Traveler readers also offers an opportunity to further introduce Central Vietnam to international markets through journeys that bring together nature, culture, heritage and distinctive travel experiences.
DA NANG TOURISM PROMOTION CENTER
Source: Condé Nast Traveler – The Best Train Trips in the World: 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, published on October 6, 2026.
https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-trains-in-the-world
