In a special issue called Amazing Train Journeys released in June 2025, Lonely Planet – a globally renowned travel publishing brand since 1973 – named Vietnam’s North-South railway line as the most desirable journey for those who love to travel. With a length of more than 1,700 km, the Thong Nhat train connects the two largest economic and cultural centers of the country, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, crossing mountains, plains, peaceful villages and spectacular coastal roads.
The train departs regularly every day, taking visitors through a series of provinces from North to South over a period of two days. This journey is considered an experience not to be missed, as you can both admire the diverse nature and feel the typical lifestyle of each region.
Lonely Planet describes the Reunification Train as one of the most popular railways in Southeast Asia. The journey not only connects cities but also allows travelers to slow down, enjoy rare moments of relaxation while watching the world pass by the window, or chat and dine with fellow travelers from all over the world.
Not only impressing Lonely Planet, in January 2025, Thong Nhat train was also ranked 3rd in the list of 9 most worth-experiencing railway routes in the world by Mr. Björn Bender - CEO of Rail Europe, Europe's leading train service operator.
Lonely Planet’s list of train routes is based on a number of criteria, including breathtaking scenery, historical and cultural value, uniqueness of experience, connectivity and inspiration for sustainable travel . These train journeys offer a fresh perspective on destinations, from gliding through peaceful villages to exploring modern cities.
In the list of the world's most spectacular railway journeys in 2025, Vietnam's North-South Reunification Train tops the list. This 1,726 km train line not only connects the two ends of the country but also takes visitors through lands steeped in history and rich in natural scenery of the S-shaped strip of land.
Coming in second is the California Zephyr (USA), with a journey of 3,924 km, taking passengers across the majestic mountains and vast valleys of the United States. This is considered one of the most attractive train experiences in North America.
Coming in third place is the Lake Titicaca train in Peru. Although only 388 km long, this train line offers a memorable experience as it glides through the Andean highlands and traditional South American villages.
The Beijing-Lhasa Express (China) takes fourth place, with a length of 3,750 km. This journey is impressive because it crosses the Tibetan Plateau – the roof of the world – offering majestic scenery and a unique experience of altitude and indigenous culture.
Fifth place goes to New Zealand's TranzAlpine train, which is only 223km long but is hailed as one of the most beautiful train routes in the world thanks to its views of the Southern Alps and lush valleys.
In sixth place is Norway's Bergensbanen train. This 496km route connects Oslo and Bergen, taking passengers through snow-capped plateaus, dense forests and crystal-clear lakes.
Seventh on the list is the Tazara train, which connects Tanzania and Zambia over a 1,860-kilometer journey. It is a historic railway and a symbol of friendship between the two African nations.
The Sunset Limited (USA) comes in at number eight. With a length of 3,211 km, this train line takes visitors to explore the American West through deserts, mountains and cities with unique cultural imprints.
Ninth is the Caledonian Sleeper (UK), a 819 km overnight journey connecting London with the Scottish Highlands. This train line is notable for its combination of modern amenities and nostalgic British beauty.
The tenth is the Mombasa – Nairobi (Kenya) train, a 579 km long railway that takes passengers across the African savannah, where they can encounter herds of wild animals and natural landscapes typical of the black continent.
The Thong Nhat Train is not only a means of transportation but also a bridge that brings tourists closer to the endless beauty of Vietnam. A journey not for those in a hurry, but a gift for those who love to explore and want to deeply feel every beat of the country.
Source: https://baophapluat.vn/tau-thong-nhat-cua-viet-nam-dan-dau-danh-sach-nhung-tuyen-tau-hoa-dep-nhat-the-gioi-post552265.html
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