Southbound Legacy Rail Journey • Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh
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SJourney Train Exterior, Asia
Exterior, SJourney, Asia
Train Street, Hanoi
Ninh Binh boat trip, SJourney, Asia
Ninh Binh Excursion, SJourney, Asia
Ninh Binh boat trip, SJourney, Asia
Phong Nha Cave, SJourney, Asia
Dining, SJourney, Asia
Phong Nha Cave, SJourney, Asia
Phong Nha Cave, SJourney, Asia
Hue Imperial City, Hue Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Hue Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Hue Imperial City, Hue Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Au Lac Wood Art, Hoi An Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Restaurant, Phu Yen Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Mang Lang Church, Phu Yen Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Phu Tan Mat Weaving Village, Phu Yen Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Ta Cu Mountain, Phan Thiet Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Fish Sauce Museum, Phan Thiet Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Farwell Party, SJourney, Asia
Busy Street in Ho Chi Minh City
Twin Cabin, SJourney, Asia
Cabin Bathroom, SJourney, Asia
Double Cabin, SJourney, Asia
Bistro Car, SJourney, Asia
Bistro Car, SJourney, Asia
Bistro Car, SJourney, Asia
Po Sah Inu Cham Towers, Phan Thiet Excursions, SJourney, Asia

SJourney – Southbound Legacy

8 day Rail Journey – from £7285 £5830

Travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City aboard SJourney, enjoying fine dining and exclusive off-train experiences along the way.

Highlights:
  • Enjoy ever-changing scenery from your comfortable private cabin
  • Discover the charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Ho Chi Minh City
  • Explore the imperial history of Hue and lantern-lit streets of Hoi An
  • Savour authentic Vietnamese cuisine served on board
  • Experience the warmth and hospitality that defines Vietnam

Your Itinerary

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You can include the Southbound Legacy rail journey as part of a longer Asia holiday. Please get in touch for ideas and recommendations.

Exterior, SJourney, Asia

Day 1 – Welcome to Hanoi

Your rail adventure begins with an afternoon transfer from your hotel to Gia Lam Station, where…

Your rail adventure begins with an afternoon transfer from your hotel to Gia Lam Station, where you’ll be greeted and assisted with check-in before boarding SJourney. Take time to settle into your cabin and explore the train’s elegant interiors before joining fellow guests in the bistro car.

Enjoy a welcome cocktail and a multi-course dinner as the train departs Hanoi around 6 pm. Crossing the historic Long Bien Bridge, you’ll catch views of the Red River and city skyline before the train rolls into the quiet countryside. Spend the evening socialising in the lounge or relaxing in your cabin, getting ready for tomorrow’s adventures in Ninh Binh.

    On board

    Dinner
Exterior, SJourney, Asia

Day 1

|

Welcome to Hanoi

Your rail adventure begins with an afternoon transfer from your hotel to Gia Lam Station, where you’ll be greeted and assisted with check-in before boarding SJourney. Take time to settle into your cabin and explore the train’s elegant interiors before joining fellow guests in the bistro car.

Enjoy a welcome cocktail and a multi-course dinner as the train departs Hanoi around 6 pm. Crossing the historic Long Bien Bridge, you’ll catch views of the Red River and city skyline before the train rolls into the quiet countryside. Spend the evening socialising in the lounge or relaxing in your cabin, getting ready for tomorrow’s adventures in Ninh Binh.

    On board

    Dinner
Exterior, SJourney, Asia
Ninh Binh boat trip, SJourney, Asia

Day 2 – Ninh Binh

Wake to views of Ninh Binh and enjoy breakfast on board before setting out to explore….

Wake to views of Ninh Binh and enjoy breakfast on board before setting out to explore. A local boat trip through the tranquil waterways of Trang An reveals limestone cliffs, caves and lush rice fields – one of Vietnam’s most beautiful landscapes.

Continue to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital, where temples and ruins tell the story of Vietnam’s early dynasties. After sightseeing, return to the train for lunch and a relaxing afternoon tea as the journey continues toward Vinh.

Enjoy dinner on board in the evening, watching the countryside roll by.

    On board

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Ninh Binh boat trip, SJourney, Asia

Day 2

|

Ninh Binh

Wake to views of Ninh Binh and enjoy breakfast on board before setting out to explore. A local boat trip through the tranquil waterways of Trang An reveals limestone cliffs, caves and lush rice fields – one of Vietnam’s most beautiful landscapes.

Continue to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital, where temples and ruins tell the story of Vietnam’s early dynasties. After sightseeing, return to the train for lunch and a relaxing afternoon tea as the journey continues toward Vinh.

Enjoy dinner on board in the evening, watching the countryside roll by.

    On board

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Ninh Binh boat trip, SJourney, Asia
Phong Nha Cave, SJourney, Asia

Day 3 – Quang Binh

Wake to the changing scenery of central Vietnam and enjoy breakfast on board as the train…

Wake to the changing scenery of central Vietnam and enjoy breakfast on board as the train makes its way towards Quang Binh. Disembark to explore Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its limestone mountains and river caves.

Cruise along the Son River to Phong Nha Cave, drifting through impressive chambers of stalactites and stalagmites before returning to the train for lunch and some relaxing onboard activities.

In the late afternoon, take part in a Vietnamese cooking demonstration and enjoy a countryside-style dinner surrounded by rice fields. After dinner, rejoin the train and settle in as it departs for Hue.

    On board

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Phong Nha Cave, SJourney, Asia

Day 3

|

Quang Binh

Wake to the changing scenery of central Vietnam and enjoy breakfast on board as the train makes its way towards Quang Binh. Disembark to explore Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its limestone mountains and river caves.

Cruise along the Son River to Phong Nha Cave, drifting through impressive chambers of stalactites and stalagmites before returning to the train for lunch and some relaxing onboard activities.

In the late afternoon, take part in a Vietnamese cooking demonstration and enjoy a countryside-style dinner surrounded by rice fields. After dinner, rejoin the train and settle in as it departs for Hue.

    On board

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Phong Nha Cave, SJourney, Asia
Hue Imperial City, Hue Excursions, SJourney, Asia

Day 4 – Hue

Begin the day with a rickshaw ride through Hue’s quiet streets, passing moss-covered walls and ancient…

Begin the day with a rickshaw ride through Hue’s quiet streets, passing moss-covered walls and ancient gates that tell the story of Vietnam’s imperial past. Visit the Imperial Citadel, home to palaces, temples and gardens once reserved for the Nguyen emperors.

Continue by private vehicle to Tu Duc Mausoleum, a peaceful retreat surrounded by pine trees, then visit Hue’s Incense Village, where local artisans handcraft traditional incense and conical hats. You’ll have the chance to try these crafts yourself before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant known for Hue’s delicate royal cuisine.

Return to the train in the afternoon and relax as the journey continues south. Watch the scenery unfold – from the Perfume River and pagodas of Hue to the coastal beauty of Lang Co Lagoon.

    On board

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Hue Imperial City, Hue Excursions, SJourney, Asia

Day 4

|

Hue

Begin the day with a rickshaw ride through Hue’s quiet streets, passing moss-covered walls and ancient gates that tell the story of Vietnam’s imperial past. Visit the Imperial Citadel, home to palaces, temples and gardens once reserved for the Nguyen emperors.

Continue by private vehicle to Tu Duc Mausoleum, a peaceful retreat surrounded by pine trees, then visit Hue’s Incense Village, where local artisans handcraft traditional incense and conical hats. You’ll have the chance to try these crafts yourself before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant known for Hue’s delicate royal cuisine.

Return to the train in the afternoon and relax as the journey continues south. Watch the scenery unfold – from the Perfume River and pagodas of Hue to the coastal beauty of Lang Co Lagoon.

    On board

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Hue Imperial City, Hue Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Au Lac Wood Art, Hoi An Excursions, SJourney, Asia

Day 5 – Hoi An

Depart Hue in the morning and enjoy breakfast on board as the train climbs through the…

Depart Hue in the morning and enjoy breakfast on board as the train climbs through the Hai Van Pass, offering stunning views of mountains, coastline and the East Sea.

Arriving near Hoi An, pause to enjoy Vietnamese coffee among peaceful rice fields before setting out by jeep to visit Au Lac Wood Art, where you can try traditional woodblock painting with local artisans. Continue to Thanh Ha Pottery Village to watch potters at work and shape your own ceramic piece.

Enjoy a home-hosted lunch featuring regional dishes made from fresh local ingredients, then explore Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the lively market, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and historic merchant houses such as Phung Hung or Tan Ky, before crossing the famous Japanese Covered Bridge.

Spend time browsing Hoi An’s shops and galleries before returning to the train. In the evening, relax with dinner on board as the journey continues south toward Phu Yen.

    On board

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Au Lac Wood Art, Hoi An Excursions, SJourney, Asia

Day 5

|

Hoi An

Depart Hue in the morning and enjoy breakfast on board as the train climbs through the Hai Van Pass, offering stunning views of mountains, coastline and the East Sea.

Arriving near Hoi An, pause to enjoy Vietnamese coffee among peaceful rice fields before setting out by jeep to visit Au Lac Wood Art, where you can try traditional woodblock painting with local artisans. Continue to Thanh Ha Pottery Village to watch potters at work and shape your own ceramic piece.

Enjoy a home-hosted lunch featuring regional dishes made from fresh local ingredients, then explore Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the lively market, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and historic merchant houses such as Phung Hung or Tan Ky, before crossing the famous Japanese Covered Bridge.

Spend time browsing Hoi An’s shops and galleries before returning to the train. In the evening, relax with dinner on board as the journey continues south toward Phu Yen.

    On board

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Au Lac Wood Art, Hoi An Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Restaurant, Phu Yen Excursions, SJourney, Asia

Day 6 – Phu Yen

Enjoy breakfast on board before setting out to explore Phu Yen, a region known for its…

Enjoy breakfast on board before setting out to explore Phu Yen, a region known for its coastal charm and traditional village life. Begin at Mang Lang Church, a striking 19th-century Gothic landmark that reflects the blend of European and Vietnamese heritage.

Continue to Phu Tan Mat Weaving Village, where local artisans handcraft colourful mats from rush grass using age-old techniques. Watch the weaving process and learn about this enduring craft passed down through generations.

Return to the coast for lunch at a local restaurant, featuring fresh seafood and regional specialties that capture the essence of Phu Yen’s cuisine. In the afternoon, rejoin the train and relax as it continues south toward Binh Thuan.

As evening falls, enjoy dinner in the bistro car.

    On board

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Restaurant, Phu Yen Excursions, SJourney, Asia

Day 6

|

Phu Yen

Enjoy breakfast on board before setting out to explore Phu Yen, a region known for its coastal charm and traditional village life. Begin at Mang Lang Church, a striking 19th-century Gothic landmark that reflects the blend of European and Vietnamese heritage.

Continue to Phu Tan Mat Weaving Village, where local artisans handcraft colourful mats from rush grass using age-old techniques. Watch the weaving process and learn about this enduring craft passed down through generations.

Return to the coast for lunch at a local restaurant, featuring fresh seafood and regional specialties that capture the essence of Phu Yen’s cuisine. In the afternoon, rejoin the train and relax as it continues south toward Binh Thuan.

As evening falls, enjoy dinner in the bistro car.

    On board

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Restaurant, Phu Yen Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Ta Cu Mountain, Phan Thiet Excursions, SJourney, Asia

Day 7 – Phan Thiet

Begin the day with a visit to Ta Cu Mountain, a peaceful spiritual site dating back…

Begin the day with a visit to Ta Cu Mountain, a peaceful spiritual site dating back to the 18th century. Ride to the summit to explore Linh Son Truong Tho Pagoda and take in panoramic views across the countryside.

Continue to the Fish Sauce Museum in Phan Thiet, where you’ll learn about Vietnam’s most essential ingredient and its deep cultural roots. Discover how this famous condiment is made and its role in traditional cooking.

Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant featuring fresh local seafood and regional dishes, then return to the train.

In the evening, visit the ancient Poshanu Cham Towers, a historic landmark overlooking the coast, and enjoy a farewell dinner served outdoors with a view of the illuminated ruins. After dinner, reboard the train and settle into your cabin for the final leg of the journey toward Ho Chi Minh City.

    On board

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Ta Cu Mountain, Phan Thiet Excursions, SJourney, Asia

Day 7

|

Phan Thiet

Begin the day with a visit to Ta Cu Mountain, a peaceful spiritual site dating back to the 18th century. Ride to the summit to explore Linh Son Truong Tho Pagoda and take in panoramic views across the countryside.

Continue to the Fish Sauce Museum in Phan Thiet, where you’ll learn about Vietnam’s most essential ingredient and its deep cultural roots. Discover how this famous condiment is made and its role in traditional cooking.

Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant featuring fresh local seafood and regional dishes, then return to the train.

In the evening, visit the ancient Poshanu Cham Towers, a historic landmark overlooking the coast, and enjoy a farewell dinner served outdoors with a view of the illuminated ruins. After dinner, reboard the train and settle into your cabin for the final leg of the journey toward Ho Chi Minh City.

    On board

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Ta Cu Mountain, Phan Thiet Excursions, SJourney, Asia
Busy Street in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 8 – Ho Chi Minh

Arrive at Saigon Station around 5 am and enjoy a relaxed breakfast on board before preparing…

Arrive at Saigon Station around 5 am and enjoy a relaxed breakfast on board before preparing to disembark. Check out begins at 9 am.

Depending on your onward travel plans, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City or to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your return flight home.

    Breakfast
Busy Street in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 8

|

Ho Chi Minh

Arrive at Saigon Station around 5 am and enjoy a relaxed breakfast on board before preparing to disembark. Check out begins at 9 am.

Depending on your onward travel plans, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City or to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your return flight home.

    Breakfast
Busy Street in Ho Chi Minh City

Inclusions

Enjoy the luxurious amenities on board and embark on incredible off-train adventures.

Twin Cabin, SJourney, Asia

Cabins

Double Cabin Designed for couples or solo travellers seeking extra space, the Double Cabin offers a 10m²…

Double Cabin

Designed for couples or solo travellers seeking extra space, the Double Cabin offers a 10m² private retreat with a comfortable double bed. Each cabin includes a multi-functional table, chairs, console cabinet and wardrobe with shoe rack. Enjoy added touches such as a minibar and a well-equipped private bathroom.

Twin Cabin

Perfect for friends or travelling companions, the Twin Cabin features two single beds within a 10m² space. Furnished with a table, chairs, console cabinet and wardrobe with shoe rack, it provides both comfort and practicality. Each cabin also includes a minibar and a modern private bathroom.

Twin Cabin, SJourney, Asia

Cabins

Double Cabin

Designed for couples or solo travellers seeking extra space, the Double Cabin offers a 10m² private retreat with a comfortable double bed. Each cabin includes a multi-functional table, chairs, console cabinet and wardrobe with shoe rack. Enjoy added touches such as a minibar and a well-equipped private bathroom.

Twin Cabin

Perfect for friends or travelling companions, the Twin Cabin features two single beds within a 10m² space. Furnished with a table, chairs, console cabinet and wardrobe with shoe rack, it provides both comfort and practicality. Each cabin also includes a minibar and a modern private bathroom.

Twin Cabin, SJourney, Asia
Bistro Car, SJourney, Asia

Dining

Enjoy gourmet cuisine and curated drinks in the elegant Bistro Car, where refined design meets warm…

Enjoy gourmet cuisine and curated drinks in the elegant Bistro Car, where refined design meets warm hospitality. With space for over 60 guests, it offers a relaxed yet sophisticated setting to dine, socialise and take in Vietnam’s passing scenery.

Savour dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with menus that change daily to suit all tastes and dietary preferences. Each meal is thoughtfully prepared by expert chefs, complemented by a full-service bar featuring cocktails, fine wines and soft drinks.

Bistro Car, SJourney, Asia

Dining

Enjoy gourmet cuisine and curated drinks in the elegant Bistro Car, where refined design meets warm hospitality. With space for over 60 guests, it offers a relaxed yet sophisticated setting to dine, socialise and take in Vietnam’s passing scenery.

Savour dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with menus that change daily to suit all tastes and dietary preferences. Each meal is thoughtfully prepared by expert chefs, complemented by a full-service bar featuring cocktails, fine wines and soft drinks.

Bistro Car, SJourney, Asia
Po Sah Inu Cham Towers, Phan Thiet Excursions, SJourney, Asia

Included Excursions

Each day brings new experiences with guided tours and cultural activities throughout Vietnam. Highlights include: Boat trip…

Each day brings new experiences with guided tours and cultural activities throughout Vietnam. Highlights include:

  • Boat trip through Trang An’s limestone waterways in Ninh Binh
  • Cave exploration in Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park
  • Rickshaw ride and citadel tour in historic Hue
  • Hands-on craft workshops in Hoi An’s artisan villages
  • Visits to Mang Lang Church and Phu Tan Weaving Village in Phu Yen
  • Ta Cu Mountain and Poshanu Tower excursions in Phan Thiet
Po Sah Inu Cham Towers, Phan Thiet Excursions, SJourney, Asia

Included Excursions

Each day brings new experiences with guided tours and cultural activities throughout Vietnam. Highlights include:

  • Boat trip through Trang An’s limestone waterways in Ninh Binh
  • Cave exploration in Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park
  • Rickshaw ride and citadel tour in historic Hue
  • Hands-on craft workshops in Hoi An’s artisan villages
  • Visits to Mang Lang Church and Phu Tan Weaving Village in Phu Yen
  • Ta Cu Mountain and Poshanu Tower excursions in Phan Thiet
Po Sah Inu Cham Towers, Phan Thiet Excursions, SJourney, Asia

Your Rail Tour Includes

7 nights on board the train
Transfers to and from your Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh accommodation
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on board the train
Tea, coffee, and selected wines, beers and spirits
A selection of excursions and experiences, as detailed in the itinerary

Departure Dates

Check for departure dates that suit you:

2025-10-29

2025-11-26

2025-12-10

2025-12-24

2026-01-07

2026-01-21

2026-02-04

2026-02-18

2026-03-04

2026-03-18

2026-04-01

2026-04-15

2026-04-29

2026-05-13

2026-05-27

2026-06-10

2026-06-24

2026-07-08

2026-07-22

2026-08-05

2026-08-19

2026-09-02

2026-09-16

2026-09-30

2026-10-14

2026-10-28

2026-11-11

2026-11-25

2026-12-09

2026-12-23

To confirm availability call 0333 234 3112

Flights & More Options

With FREEDOM, you can book your SJourney – Southbound Legacy rail journey and flights together, as an ATOL protected package. Our Travel Experts can find the best priced Economy, Premium or Business Class flights for you.

Next Step

Please get in touch with our Asia Experts to start planning your holiday. You’ll have a single point of contact from your first enquiry through booking.

SJourney – Southbound Legacy

8 day Rail Journey – from £7285 £5830

Map

Southbound Legacy SJourney Route Map

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