8 Days on Sjourney Luxury Train Northbound

As the afternoon light casts a warm glow over Saigon, a sense of anticipation fills the air. At 4:30 p.m., your journey begins with a seamless transfer from your hotel, where an attentive guide and driver ensure your effortless arrival at the train station. Here, you are welcomed into the exclusive VIP lounge, where refined service and quiet luxury set the tone for the adventure ahead. As check-in is handled with ease, take a moment to unwind, admiring the elegant surroundings as the excitement of the evening unfolds.

As dusk settles over the city, at 6:00 p.m., step into the opulent dining carriage, where an evening of sophistication and camaraderie awaits. Engage in lively conversation with fellow travellers, the gentle clink of glasses complementing the refined ambience. A curated menu of exquisite dishes reveals culinary artistry in every course, each creation seamlessly paired with fine wines or expertly crafted cocktails. The flavours of Vietnam and beyond come to life, elevating the dining experience to one of indulgence and refinement.

With high spirits, the train begins its graceful departure from Saigon, the city lights gradually fading into the distance. The rhythmic motion of the carriage lulls you into a state of tranquillity, the gentle hum of the rails a soothing companion to the night. As the anticipation of Phan Thiet’s adventures lingers, retreat to the comfort of your luxurious cabin, where the soft sway of the train carries you into a peaceful and restorative sleep.

As the morning sun rises over Binh Thuan, the journey unfolds toward the serene Ta Cu Mountain, a revered pilgrimage site since the 18th century under the reign of King Tu Duc. A cable car ascent offers sweeping views of lush forests before arriving at Linh Son Truong Tho Pagoda. Here, the Reclining Buddha, one of Vietnam’s largest, rests in quiet majesty. The panoramic vista from the summit blends natural beauty with deep spiritual significance, creating a moment of reflection before the day’s discoveries continue.

By mid-morning, Phan Thiet’s rich culinary heritage takes centre stage with a visit to the Fish Sauce Museum. The unmistakable aroma of Vietnam’s most essential condiment lingers in the air as centuries-old production methods are revealed. Gain insight into its cultural significance and understand why it remains the soul of Vietnamese cuisine. At noon, the flavours come to life over a leisurely oceanfront lunch, where fresh seafood and regional ingredients harmonise in a menu that captures the essence of the coast.

In the afternoon, the landscape shifts as the vast White Sand Dunes rise into view, an unexpected desert-like expanse sculpted by the wind. Wander across the golden peaks, capturing the shifting sands beneath the afternoon light, or embrace adventure with sandboarding or quad-biking. As twilight settles, return to the luxury of your train. Freshen up before indulging in an exquisite onboard dinner, a seamless fusion of Vietnamese and international culinary artistry. As the train glides toward Nha Trang, the rhythmic motion of the journey sets the stage for the next chapter.

At 8:30 a.m., step aboard the elegant Emperor Cruise, where a chilled welcome drink and the soothing melodies of classical music set the tone for a refined journey. As the vessel glides across Nha Trang Bay, limestone islands rise in the distance, their rugged beauty mirrored in the crystal-clear waters. A soft sea breeze carries the scent of salt and adventure, immersing you in a world of serenity.

Between 9:15 and 9:45 a.m., the journey pauses at a traditional fishing village. Aboard a basket boat, drift along calm waters as a local villager expertly navigates, offering a glimpse into daily life on the bay. At a floating fish farm, observe the aquaculture practices that sustain the region’s fishing heritage. By 10:00 a.m., the cruise reaches Sỏi Beach, where pristine sands and tranquil waters invite relaxation. Swim, kayak, or snorkel to uncover vibrant marine life, or simply unwind with a refreshing drink in the shade.

Returning to the Emperor Cruise at 11:30 a.m., a delectable lunch highlights the region’s freshest seafood and international flavours. By 2:00 p.m., step ashore to explore Nha Trang’s cultural landmarks, beginning at the striking Nha Trang Stone Church before visiting the serene Loc Tho Pagoda. At Mr. Hai’s Ancient House, a beautifully preserved 200-year-old home, gain insight into the traditions of a bygone era. The afternoon deepens with a hands-on cooking class, where an expert chef unveils the delicate balance of Vietnamese flavours.

As the sun sets, return to your luxurious train. Freshen up in your private cabin as the landscape shifts beyond your window, the rhythmic hum of the tracks carrying you toward the next chapter.

As dawn paints the sky over Nha Trang, the journey unfolds with breathtaking coastal views that give way to rolling hills and emerald rice fields. The train glides toward Hoi An, where a tranquil retreat awaits. Upon arrival, a freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee offers a moment of calm, its rich aroma complementing the serenity of the surrounding countryside.

The morning’s adventure begins with a jeep excursion through Hoi An’s rustic landscapes. Crossing the Thu Bon River to Cam Kim Island, discover the art of Vietnamese coffee roasting, its deep fragrance filling the air. Step inside an ancestral home, where generations have preserved Hoi An’s architectural heritage. Nearby, skilled hands shape wooden boats and weave delicate bamboo baskets, maintaining time-honoured traditions. At Tra Nhieu Village, drift through lush water coconut forests on a bamboo boat, the gentle rhythm of the water setting a soothing pace. Lunch follows at an organic farm, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients bring the region’s culinary heritage to life.

The afternoon leads to Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO treasure where lantern-lit streets echo with history. Explore the lively market, where silks and spices spill from colourful stalls. Admire the ornate Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall and step into the historic Phung Hung or Tan Ky Ancient House for a glimpse into merchant life. The day’s journey concludes at the Japanese Covered Bridge, an enduring emblem of Hoi An’s cultural harmony. As evening falls, return to the train for an exquisite onboard dinner, the rhythmic motion carrying you toward the next chapter of discovery.

As the morning sun rises, the train embarks on a scenic journey to historic Hue, winding through the breathtaking Hai Van Pass. A gourmet breakfast is served as the landscape transitions from lush valleys to the shimmering East Sea. Upon arrival, step into the imperial past aboard a vintage Vespa, beginning at the Royal Palace, the heart of the Nguyen Dynasty. Within its towering walls, centuries of history unfold through intricate gates and grand halls, offering a glimpse into the lives of Vietnam’s last emperors.

Beyond the palace, Hue’s traditions thrive in unexpected corners. A visit to a bronze-casting village reveals artisans preserving ancient craftsmanship, while the weathered ruins of the Tiger Arena and Elephant Shrine recall grand royal spectacles. The Vespa weaves through the countryside, past emerald rice fields and riverside hamlets. A stop at an ancient royal tomb offers a moment of quiet reflection before lunch unfolds in a beautifully restored garden house, where Hue’s imperial culinary traditions come to life.

The afternoon invites a tranquil cruise along the Perfume River, its waters mirroring the lush landscapes beyond. At Thanh Tien, skilled hands craft delicate paper flowers, a tradition passed down for generations. As evening settles, the Ben Xuan Garden House offers an elegant immersion into Hue’s artistic heritage, where classical music and refined architecture create an atmosphere of noble leisure. A private performance and an exquisite fine dining experience conclude the day before returning to the train, where the rhythmic motion carries you toward the next destination.

As the train gently sways, the landscapes of central Vietnam unfold beyond your window bathed in the soft hues of morning light. A leisurely breakfast is served onboard, offering a moment to savour the tranquillity before the day’s discoveries begin. By mid-morning, the train arrives in Quang Binh, a region renowned for its striking natural beauty. The journey leads into the heart of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where ancient landscapes remain untouched by time. Lush mountains rise over the serene Son River, their reflections shimmering on the water’s surface.

Aboard a boat, glide along the Son River, the air thick with the scent of tropical foliage. Towering karsts cast their shadows over the water as you drift toward the entrance of Phong Nha Cave. Inside, a subterranean wonderland is revealed, where time-sculpted stalactites and stalagmites create an ethereal landscape bathed in soft light. The journey continues to Nuoc Mooc Spring, a hidden oasis nestled within the jungle. A refreshing lunch is served amid the soothing sounds of nature, with crystal-clear waters inviting a cooling swim or a gentle kayaking excursion.

As late afternoon approaches, return to the train and freshen up as the landscapes of Quang Binh are bathed in golden light. A home-style dinner awaits, served in the peaceful embrace of endless rice paddies. Those who wish can take part in a Vietnamese cooking class, mastering the delicate balance of flavours that define the region’s cuisine. As stars emerge, the evening draws to a close, and the train glides onward to Ninh Binh, carrying you toward the next chapter of discovery.

As dawn breaks over Ninh Binh, the day begins with a sumptuous breakfast aboard your luxury train, setting the tone for the journey ahead. By 8:00 a.m., step into the serene embrace of Trang An, where a traditional sampan glides through emerald waters framed by towering limestone cliffs. Recognized by UNESCO for its natural beauty, this tranquil waterway winds through lush greenery and hidden grottoes, offering an intimate glimpse into Vietnam’s untouched splendour.

The journey continues at Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, where the legacy of the Dinh and Le dynasties endures. Among dramatic limestone peaks, centuries-old temples offer a window into the country’s imperial past. Lunch unfolds in a private setting against the backdrop of Tam Coc’s karst mountains, where each dish highlights the region’s vibrant flavours.

The afternoon invites a leisurely bicycle ride through the countryside, where rice paddies and villages reveal the rhythms of local life. A visit to Thai Vi Temple provides a moment of quiet reflection, while Co Vien Lau showcases beautifully preserved traditional houses, a tribute to Vietnam’s architectural heritage.

As evening approaches, return to the train to unwind before a farewell dinner at Dinh Le King Temple. Exquisite cuisine is served in a historic setting, a fitting tribute to the journey’s cultural depth. As the train departs for Hanoi, the echoes of Ninh Binh’s wonders linger, marking the perfect close to an unforgettable day.