Train from Hanoi and Vinh to Hue

Train from Hanoi-Vinh to Hue: A journey mr.hotsia must try

When it comes to traveling in Vietnam, mr.hotsia recommends the experience of taking the train from Vinh to Hue, a route continuing from Hanoi. The Vietnamese train I took this time was an air-conditioned carriage with assigned seating, which was much more comfortable than I expected. Departure was a bit late from Vinh, resulting in arrival in Hue at dusk. Along the way, I saw bright green rice fields, small rivers, and unexpectedly beautiful limestone mountains. This railway route is perfect for those who want to truly experience the local lifestyle and nature of Vietnam.

On the train, there is a dining car serving food throughout the day—morning, noon, and evening—with staff delivering meals to your seat. mr.hotsia recommends waiting to order food according to the meal schedule to get hot dishes. The taste isn’t exceptional but enough to satisfy hunger. If you want to walk around or take photos, you can visit the dining car, which also sells drinks and beer. However, the food there is usually pre-prepared and served cold, so the flavor may not match freshly served hot meals at the seat.

Arriving in Hue: Discovering local cuisine and evening strolls

After getting off the train at Hue station, mr.hotsia began the trip by experiencing the old town atmosphere and local food here. Hue is famous for dishes different from Hanoi and Hoi An. Instead of pho or noodle soup, it features a hot noodle soup called "mi." This type of noodle is perfect for the cold weather in January when I visited. Each bowl costs about 20-30 baht, warming both tongue and heart.

There are also affordable rice and curry dishes priced around 20 baht per plate, with choices of pork, fish, or chicken. I found them delicious and very good value—ideal for those wanting simple meals with authentic Vietnamese flavors. For dessert lovers, Hue offers local sweets similar to Thai desserts, like red bean sago topped with coconut milk and syrup. Anyone who enjoys such sweets will not be disappointed.Read more about food in Hue

At night, between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM, I enjoyed walking along the Perfume River at the bridge over the river, which is beautifully lit with colorful lights. Young Vietnamese couples come to relax here. The cool winter atmosphere makes the walk feel effortless. There is also a small walking street and cheap beer shops open, allowing me to share experiences with travelers from many countries.Read more about night walks in Hue

Accommodation tips and sightseeing in Hue with mr.hotsia

Hue offers many accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. The average room price I found was about 300 baht per night, with air conditioning, hot water, and fast WIFI suitable for watching YouTube without buffering. I recommend staying near the Perfume River area because you can easily walk to important sites like the old palace, Dong Ba market, or the Perfume River bridge without needing cyclo or motorbike taxis.See details of hotels, accommodations, and guesthouses in Hue

For those interested in history and culture, the old Nguyen Dynasty palace in Hue is a must-visit. It was heavily damaged during the Vietnam War but has since been restored and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tourists can choose guided tours or explore on their own. I recommend walking around by yourself to fully absorb the atmosphere.Read about the Hue Imperial Palace

Impressions and reflections from mr.hotsia

Traveling by train from Hanoi through Vinh to Hue is an experience I want everyone to try. It’s not just a journey but a chance to feel the simple life of locals and the beautiful nature along the way. Arriving in Hue at dusk offers a different perspective of the city—its food, lifestyle, and a harmonious blend of culture.

At the same time, Hue is a city suited for travelers who enjoy peace, quiet, and want to experience authentic Vietnam. Whether strolling along the Perfume River, tasting hot mi noodle soup, or visiting the historic old palace, I believe you will fall in love with this city just as mr.hotsia has.

If you have enough time, don’t forget to visit Lang Co, located between Hue and Da Nang, as its natural scenery is as beautiful as anywhere else.Read about Lang Co between Hue and Da NangFinally, I wish everyone safe travels and enjoyable adventures in Vietnam!