How to book:

You can get tickets from the ticket booths at the city train stations - which is the cheapest way to buy one. Sometimes buying the ticket off the counter can save you up to 30%.

However, sometimes it might be risky to wait and book at last minute (even 2-3 days in advance are considered last minute) - seats or berths on popular route are not always available. Ticket agents will charge you extra fee when you reserve online - most will provide free ticket delivery (such as Vietnam-trains.com). 

Ticket fare: $70 (Soft Seat)  - $90 (Hard berth) - $99 (Soft berth) - Agent Fare