Railways increase service on April 30th: What's new in the 2026 train schedule?

BranchRailwayVietnam has just announced plans to increase the number of train services to meet the high demand for travel nationwide during the Hung Kings Commemoration Day and the April 30th - May 1st holidays in 2026.

Adding more train services on major transportation routes provides passengers with more convenient travel options between provinces and popular tourist destinations.

Railways plan to increase service during the 2026 holiday season.

From April 24th to May 3rd, 2026, Vietnam Railway Transport Joint Stock Company will maintain five pairs of Thong Nhat trains running daily on the Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh City route (SE1/2 to SE9/10).

To provide maximum support for passengers during peak days, the transport sector is adding extra SE11 and SE12 trains.

Specifically, train SE12 departs from Saigon station on April 24, 25, 28, and 29; train SE11 departs from Hanoi station on April 26, 27, 30, and May 1.

Which cruise routes are being enhanced during this period?

BranchRailwayThe focus is on boosting transportation capacity on routes connecting major tourist centers. Routes such as Saigon to Quy Nhon, Nha Trang, Phan Thiet and Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Da Nang will have additional train services organized before and after the holiday period.

In addition, short-haul routes serving tourists have also seen a significant increase in frequency:

• Hanoi – Lao Cai:Maintain 3 pairs of trains per day.
• Hanoi – Hai Phong:Four pairs of trains run daily, with an additional six special trains.
• Da Lat – Trai Mat:More train services will be added to offer passengers the unique experience of the cogwheel railway.

Preferential railway fare policy for priority groups.

The railway industry widely implements deep fare reduction programs for various passenger groups to support the community. Those who participated in revolutionary activities before 1945 and Vietnamese Heroic Mothers receive the highest discounts, up to 90% off the fare. Those who have rendered meritorious service to the revolution and those with severe disabilities receive a 30% discount.

For other customer groups, the specific policies include:

• Elderly people:15% discount on tickets.
• Student:10% discount on tickets.
• Children aged 6 to under 10 years old:25% off ticket prices.
• Children under 6 years old:Tickets are completely free when accompanied by a valid adult.

Passengers can find detailed information and book tickets online at the official website.Vietnam Railways CorporationAlternatively, you can book through e-wallet apps to receive additional combined offers. Booking tickets early helps people be more proactive in planning their upcoming holiday trips.