Vietnam’s North-South Express named world’s best train ride
VOV.VN - The iconic Reunification Express of Vietnam has been named the number one experience on Lonely Planet’s newly released list of the 24 most incredible train journeys to book in 2025.

Published on June 16, the travel guide praises the Reunification Express for its epic 1,726km journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, a route that operates daily and takes approximately two days to complete.
Described as one of Southeast Asia’s most beloved railways, Lonely Planet highlights the train’s unique appeal, calling it one of the most atmospheric and unforgettable overnight train experiences in the world.
There is no more atmospheric way to arrive in Vietnam’s twin metropolises as the train rattles through historic cities and swooshes beside spectacular coastlines, notes the website.
The publication also reflects on the broader magic of train travel, whether it’s found in the shared stories of fellow passengers, the soothing rhythm of wheels on tracks, or the ever-changing landscapes rolling past the windows — offering travelers a deep, immersive view into the soul of a nation, shares Lonely Planet.
Other destinations featuring on Lonely Planet’s list include the California Zephyr of the United States, the Lake Titicaca Train of Peru, the Beijing-to-Lhasa Express of China, and the TranzAlpine of New Zealand.