Hue Railway Station: A complete guide for first-time visitors

1. Where is Hue Train Station? How to get there?

Hue Railway Station is conveniently located at 2 Bui Thi Xuan Street in the heart of Hue. To get to the station, from Truong Tien Bridge, head southeast toward Le Loi Street, turn right onto Le Loi Street, then continue straight past Cau Ga (Railway Bridge) to reach Ga Hue Railway Station. The total distance is approximately 2.2 kilometers, equivalent to a 10-minute ride. If you prefer public transport, there are three bus routes that have stops on Bui Thi Xuan Street: 01, 15, and 16.

2. History of Hue Railway Station

Hue Railway Station was built by French engineers in 1906, initially named "Ga Truong Sung" (Shooting Range Station) as the area used to be a shooting range of the Nguyen Dynasty. It was part of the 171-kilometer Dong Ha - Da Nang train route, then became a crucial component of the North-South railway line in 1936.

As Vietnam's second-oldest railway station, Hue Train Station reflects the nation's political transformation, from colonial resistance to national unity. The station has witnessed pivotal moments, including King Duy Tan's exile in 1916 after his unsuccessful uprising against French rule. In 1946, it became the birthplace of Vietnam's Railway Workers' Union during a historic national conference. 

Following the 1954 Geneva Accords, the station primarily served military purposes until the reunification in 1975 restored its civilian service.

3. The railway network at Hue Train Station

3.1. Hue - Hanoi

The journey from Hue to Hanoi by train ranges from 13.5 to 15.5 hours, with ticket prices starting at 535,000 VND per person.

*Note: SE20 is a special tourist train that offers luxury service from Da Nang to Hanoi for travelers seeking enhanced comfort.

3.2. Hue - Vinh

The train ride from Hue to Vinh typically takes from 7 to 8.5 hours. Ticket prices start at 319,000 VND per person.

3.3. Hue - Da Nang

The Hue to Da Nang train offers a scenic journey that lasts from 2.5 to 3.5 hours, with ticket prices from 114,000 VND per person. 

*Note: HD1, HD3, and SE19 are tourist trains to Da Nang that offer enhanced comfort.

3.4. Hue - Nha Trang

The journey from Hue to Nha Trang by train typically takes 12 - 14.5 hours. With ticket prices starting at 487,000 VND per person, this route offers excellent value for travelers to Nha Trang. 

3.5. Hue - Ho Chi Minh City

The journey from Hue Railway Station to Saigon Railway Station in Ho Chi Minh City provides a comprehensive view of Vietnam's diverse landscapes over 20 - 24 hours. Ticket prices start at 636,000 VND per person.

>>> Check out the comprehensive Hue map for seamless travels!

4. Unmissable highlights of Hue Railway Station

4.1. Stunning architecture

Hue Train Station in Vietnam exemplifies European architecture with its interconnected complex featuring passenger terminals, cargo terminals, and administrative buildings. The two-story main structure, painted in pink, showcases French colonial design, with a remarkable century-old clock still keeping perfect time.

The station features two tracks, a ticketing hall, waiting rooms, and souvenir shops. Photography enthusiasts can capture stunning Hue Railway Station photos at the entrance, alongside architectural details like windows and tracks, or near the trains. The station's signage, information platforms, and ceremonial areas with murals and sculptures provide creative photo opportunities.

4.2. Late-night tea

When night falls over Hue, the area around the railway station remains vibrant with tea shops bustling with conversations. This late-night tea-drinking tradition called "tra ga" (station tea sipping) ranks among the essential things to do in Hue. Visitors can sit at a table with steaming tea, sunflower seeds, and flickering oil lamps.

Tra ga in front of Hue Train Station operates throughout the night. With affordable prices (tea pot 15,000 VND, snack 10,000 VND), the atmospheric blend of conversations, train whistles, and announcements creates a unique space where visitors can witness joyful reunions and bittersweet farewells while enjoying this authentic cultural experience.

4.3. Idyllic train journeys

The tourist trains HD1, HD2, HD3, and HD4 frequent between Hue and Da Nang daily. The 3-hour journey traverses the legendary Hai Van Pass, which is acclaimed as one of the world's most beautiful passes, where the Truong Son Mountains meet the endless ocean. Morning and evening departures offer sunrise or sunset views over Lang Co Bay, with a 10-minute stop at Lang Co Station. 

This tourist train features royal-inspired décor, traditional music, live singing, and cultural workshops. Passengers can also enjoy local dishes like banh loc, nem cha, and banh ram it, plus onboard souvenir shopping.

5. Tips for first-time visitors to Hue Train Station

5.1. Notes

To ensure a smooth railway journey from Hue, remember to:

• Book early: Book tickets 1-2 weeks ahead, especially during peak travel seasons like summer or Tet.
• Arrive early: Come 30-45 minutes before departure time for ticket verification.
• Pack smart: Bring snacks for longer journeys. 
• Make use of the time: Use the waiting time to photograph the station's century-old architecture.

5.2. Tourist attractions near Hue Vietnam Train Station

Hue Railway Station's central location provides easy access to several attractions within walking distance.

• Tu Dam Pagoda (1.1 kilometers away): A historic Buddhist temple with traditional architecture and peaceful grounds offering spiritual tranquility.
• Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street (1.6 kilometers away): A vibrant nighttime pedestrian area along the Perfume River featuring street performances, local vendors, and street food.
• Phu Cam Cathedral (1.6 kilometers away): A Gothic Revival cathedral with twin spires overlooking the Perfume River, serving as one of Hue's most significant religious buildings.
• Trang Tien Bridge (2.2 kilometers away): An iconic French colonial iron bridge connecting the old and new Hue, beautifully illuminated at night with romantic river reflections.
• Hue Historical Citadel (2.7 kilometers away): A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a former imperial city, royal tombs, and temples showcasing the Nguyen Dynasty’s architecture.

5.3. Nearby restaurants

The area surrounding Hue Railway Station offers an excellent selection of local eateries, where travelers can experience Hue’s cuisine before or after their train journey.

From late-night tea to train journeys through mountain passes, Hue Railway Station creates lasting memories beyond mere transportation. This historic hub connects travelers not just to destinations, but to the heart and soul of central Vietnam.

Your journey through Hue is just the beginning of discovering Vietnam. As you continue exploring, Vietnam travel promises unforgettable memories at appealing destinations like Ha Long, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, etc. To enhance your trip, the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl across these destinations combine luxury accommodations with comprehensive facilities, spas, culinary offerings, etc. 

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