Vietnam is currently in the middle of a massive, multi-decade transformation of its rail network. For a long time, the system was a charming but aging relic of the French colonial era; now, it’s being repositioned as the backbone of the country’s economic future and a premier “slow travel” destination. As of April 2026, there are three major “tracks” Vietnam is following: The “North-South” High-Speed Mega Project
The biggest news in Vietnamese infrastructure is the finalized plan for the North-South High-Speed Railway. 1. The “North-South” High-Speed Mega Project The biggest news in Vietnamese infrastructure is the finalized plan for the North-South High-Speed Railway.
The Strategic Shift: Vietnam recently pivoted to favor the 350 km/h model (focusing on passengers) over a slower 250 km/h mixed-use model, aiming to directly compete with regional airlines and reduce the carbon footprint of domestic travel. The Goal: Connecting Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south (approx. 1,500km). The Speed: In 2026, the government has officially broken ground on the first segments. The goal is a dual-track system allowing passenger trains to reach 350 km/h, cutting the current 30-hour journey down to just 5.5 hours. Watch more below, courtesy of Fred Mills’ always excellent The B1M.
Watch more below, courtesy of Fred Mills’ always excellent The B1M.
We here at Matouring will be banging the drums about rail until the world finally gets the picture. So many countries don’t even give rail a thought every day, simply because it’s there, it’s good and its needed. We won’t nag on and on about the countries who can’t or won’t bother about quitting dreaming and getting on the beam: they know who they are, and they know that we know. See you later!
Our affiliate partners, Klook have transport options all around Asia, including Vietnam. Click here extensively services Vietnam, offering a wide range of travel services including Vietnam e-Visa applications, airport fast-track immigration, private airport transfers, SIM cards/eSIMs, and various tours and activities. Users generally report positive experiences using Klook for convenient, reliable services in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Click here
As ever, travel insurance is a must. World Nomads cover places like Vietnam. Play it safe. Click here