Hanoi to Sapa: The 3 Best Transport Options For Visitors
From rolling rice paddies to unique minority tribes and ethnic markets, Sapa is one of the most popular destinations in northern Vietnam. This place is ideal for adventurous travelers, hikers, couples, and families.
So, the easiest way to get to Sapa is from Hanoi or Lao Cai. How do you travel from Hanoi to Sapa? Is it better to go to Sapa by train or bus? This article provides a detailed transportation guide for getting from Hanoi to Sapa by train, bus, and other vehicles.
1. Geographical Location Of Sapa
Sapa is a city located in the northwest of Vietnam, about 350 kilometers from Hanoi, the country's capital. The city is situated in Lao Cai province, at an altitude of 1,500 meters in the Hoang Lien Son Mountains. To get to Sapa from Hanoi, you can take either a train or a bus, both of which offer spectacular views of the Vietnamese countryside. The train ride takes about 8 hours, while the bus ride takes about 6 hours.
![Sapa is the mountainous region in the North of Vietnam](/pic/blog/images/hanoi-to-sapa-1(4).jpg)
2. Hanoi To Sapa by Train
Traveling from Hanoi to Sapa by train is very popular and is considered the most authentic way to experience this route. What makes it so appealing are the low prices and the opportunity to enjoy the landscape of northern Vietnam in a friendly atmosphere. Additionally, it is more comfortable and safer than traveling by bus or motorbike.
Note that the train does not go all the way to Sapa; it stops at the nearest station in Lao Cai province. From there, you must arrange secondary transportation to reach Sapa (by car, taxi, or motorbike). The journey from Hanoi to Sapa takes about 9.5 hours, including 8 hours of travel from Hanoi to Lao Cai Railway Station and an additional hour and a half from Lao Cai Railway Station to Sapa Town.
![Hanoi - Sapa by train](/pic/blog/images/hanoi-to-sapa-1(5).jpg)
2.1 Hanoi - Lao Cai by train
There are two-night trains from Hanoi to Lao Cai and vice versa per day, the SP1 and SP3. Additional services may be added during peak holiday or weekend periods.
Each train offers various types of carriages. Some are standard Vietnamese Railways (Reunification Express Train) carriages, while others are high-end options run by private companies like Livitrans, Orient Express, King Express, Sapaly Express, Chapa Express, Fansipan Express, Victoria Express, Laman Express, Damitrans, Hoa Phuong Train, and The Pumpkin Express. These premium Hanoi to Sapa train carriages feature all the necessary amenities and boast elegant interiors.
![Inside a private berth on the Hanoi Sapa night train](/pic/blog/images/hanoi-to-sapa-2(3).jpg)
The addresses of the station:
- Hanoi Railway Station: 120 Le Duan Street, Hoan Kiem District
- Lao Cai Railway Station: Khanh Yen Street, Pho Moi
Train schedules:
- Hanoi - Lao Cai: SP1: 21:30 - 5:35 / SP3: 22:00 - 5:55
- Lao Cai - Hanoi: SP2: 20:55 - 04:32 / SP4: 21:30 - 5:25
The train price from Hanoi to Sapa varies depending on the class:
If you want a comfortable and quiet train journey, consider booking a seat in a sleeper cabin. These cabins are pricier and often fully booked. However, booking your trip to Sapa with Kampá Tour can get you a more affordable rate. A more budget-friendly option is soft seats. While you can sleep in these seats, they're less comfortable for overnight travel. The types of seats available include:
- Hard seat
- Soft seat
- 6-berth cabin
- 4-berth cabin
- 2-berth VIP cabin
How to book your train tickets?
To buy a train ticket online, visit the official Vietnam Railways website: https://dsvn.vn/. Choose your train, select a carriage class, and proceed to purchase.
Alternatively, you can buy train tickets directly at the station upon arrival in Vietnam. However, trains are often busy, especially during rush hours and holidays like Tet. To avoid any inconvenience, it's best to book your tickets a few days in advance.
Otherwise, you can always contact us and we will take care of your reservations and transfers to and from the station.
![Hanoi Railway Station Otherwise, you can always contact us and we will take care of your reservatio](/pic/blog/images/hanoi-to-sapa-3(2).jpg)
Otherwise, you can always contact us and we will take care of your reservations and transfers to and from the station.
>>> Discover Vietnam Train Travel: Explore Your Journey Today!
2.2 How to get from Lao Cai to Sapa?
After getting off the train, you have a 40km journey (about 45 to 60 minutes) to reach Sapa. You can choose between:
- Bus: Depart from Lao Cai Station and stop at Sapa Cathedral.
- Hotel bus (in a group): Departure from Lao Cai train station and stop at the hotel.
- By taxi from Lao Cai to Sapa
- By motorcycle
![There are many transportation options for you to move from Lao Cai to Sapa](/pic/blog/images/hanoi-to-sapa-4(2).jpg)
3. Hanoi To Sapa By Bus Or Sleeper Bus
The bus is the fastest way to get from Hanoi to Sapa. The journey takes between 4 and 6 hours, thanks to the new Hanoi-Lao Cai Expressway. Hanoi-Sapa buses are available throughout the day, and we recommend the sleeper bus, allowing you to rest and arrive in Sapa at sunrise, ready to start your trip.
![Any bus station in Hanoi also has a route to Lao Cai](/pic/blog/images/hanoi-to-sapa-7(2).jpg)
You can choose from well-known brands that provide services from Hanoi to Sapa bus such as Sao Viet, Ha Son Hai Van, Hung Thanh, Queen Café, Fansipan Express Bus, and more. These buses are well-equipped with clean linens, electrical and USB ports, free WiFi, and drinking water. Traveling by bus is faster than by train, which takes about 6 to 6.5 hours from the capital to Sapa.
>>> You want to discover this “hiking enthusiasts’ paradise”, take a look at our top Hiking & Trekking Tours
![Inside a Hanoi - Sapa sleeper bus](/pic/blog/images/hanoi-to-sapa-5(2).jpg)
4. Hanoi To Sapa By Limousine Van
Lastly, limousine vans offer comfort on a long journey with spacious seating, free WiFi, LED screens, bottled water, and snacks. The price of limousine buses is a bit higher, ranging from $16 to $22 per person.
Some popular limousine bus brands include Eco Sapa, New Enjoy Limousine, Golden Horse, Sapa Luxury Van, Limousine Truong Thanh, Khai Phat Limousine, Pumpkin Limousine, and Sapa Express...
![If you are traveling in a family group, renting a limousine is very reasonable](/pic/blog/images/hanoi-to-sapa-6(2).jpg)
>>> Also read: What to Do In Sapa, Vietnam?
5. Tips For Getting From Hanoi To Sapa
- When traveling by train, keep an eye on your luggage for safety!
- Always arrive at least 15 minutes before the departure time.
- Purchase tickets from reliable sources; only book online through official websites.
- If you want to visit Sapa by motorbike, it’s better to travel from Hanoi to Lao Cai by train.
- By the time you arrive in Sapa, it may still be too early to check in at your hotel. Most cafes in Sapa open at 7:30 a.m., so you can grab a coffee in the meantime.
If you have limited time in Vietnam or are looking for an easy way to travel around Sapa, consider a tailor-made trip with a local travel agency. There are 2 and 3-day itineraries available that focus on different interests (trekking, culture, meeting ethnic groups, etc.) and include transportation from Sapa to Hanoi and back, as well as a local guide to show you around and answer your questions. We hope your question, 'How to get to Sapa, Vietnam from Hanoi?' has been answered in this article. Thank you.
>>> More about Sapa and the surrounding area:
- Bac Ha: 7 questions about the land of Northwest ethnic groups
- The Ultimate Ha Giang Guide: Must-See Stops & Insider Tips
- Cao Bang, Vietnam: 6 Essential Tips For A Successful Trip!
>>> See more about things to do in Vietnam by month:
JANUARY | FEBRUARY | MARCH | APRIL | MAY | JUNE | JULY | AUGUST | SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER | NOVEMBER | DECEMBER
Quiz: Do you really know about Vietnam?
![<div class=fs18>Mrs. DUONG Thi Lan</div>Travel Consultant](/pic/reviews/226c2dac-350c-4f69-b162-dc4dc7f275b0.png)
![Ba Be Lake: A Slice of Paradise in Northern Vietnam](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/2bec78db-d705-4b66-bf88-d331aa996405-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Bac Ha: 7 questions about the land of Northwest ethnic groups](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/c4b0cb3c-475c-488c-acb5-99643c2cee8c-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Best Time to Visit North Vietnam in 2024? Top 10 Must-See Places](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/f221d767-b973-4899-bb79-c840934930d8-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Mai Chau, Vietnam: 8 Questions About The Beautiful Northern Valley](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/cbf80874-a5f3-4ec8-8b1b-edd974911b4f-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![7 Undiscovered Treasure Lagoons & Lakes in Vietnam for 2024](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/f1de83cd-e324-4782-9de6-390664290fea-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Dont Visit Tam Coc, Vietnam Without Knowing These 9 Essentials!](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/4f5ce035-f99d-4455-91d7-c58a658def8f-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![What Not To Do In Vietnam: 12 Things To Avoid](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/1af24bb4-7557-4b63-b91e-cbd17b2e324d-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Best Time to Visit Vietnam: The Ultimate Weather Guide](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/d01b3dbf-e55b-4ed3-b531-23be8c361e34-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Best Vietnam SIM Card for Tourists 2024: All You Need To Know](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/12467b01-7d18-47d4-8d7b-6080d7584f02-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Cultural Immersion Through Homestays in Vietnam with Local Hosts](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/f4d0940b-6240-4a5a-8b67-251ca2952b01-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![How to Travel to Vietnam? Your Ultimate Guide to Reaching Vietnam!](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/bb0ee7fe-b2da-4353-a78a-8a14dc1ecb38-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Travel insurance Vietnam 2024: FULL advice from local experts](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/e3900759-eb3d-47c1-8407-36bdf27a6e80-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Ultimate Vietnam Travel Tips: Plan Your Perfect Trip](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/aaafc36f-942f-4324-9489-377d2cc7b13d-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Unlocking Vietnam: Visa Guide for African Travelers 2024](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/2cfab5c8-7ca7-4da2-9024-5a4ae46caf21-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam E-Visa 2024: Your Gateway to Seamless Travel](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/9ae60b83-7143-4541-b48d-86dca097b8a1-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam Tourist Map 2024: Your Most Complete Guide to Regions](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/b2e95615-5f21-4623-b301-f4406ca64cf7-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam Visa Exemption 2024: All you need to know](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/2f11b2f8-b70b-44c1-8636-e7b8dd46645b-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![10 Days, 10 Colors: A Journey from South to North Vietnam](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/6af9fac3-2be3-4a50-bba3-584ea06c315b-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![5 Days in Mountainous North Vietnam: Ha Giang and beyond](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b671263d-a8b6-465d-925a-bd98dd77926a-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![7-Day Scenic North Vietnam Trekking](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b631c036-28a0-4b39-a18b-56e1ce09a81e-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Essence of Northern Vietnam 7 days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/f0e86957-19a6-4917-afff-e80bb3b3ada1-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Exotic Northeast Vietnam 10 Days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/fa272018-f44d-442c-a61f-7b82dce336b2-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Natural Highlights of North Vietnam in 5 Days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/1fdc001c-15a1-4dfa-9519-7fe0ba4fcca0-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![The Best of Northern Vietnam in 7 Days: All-Inclusive](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/4776f463-60f3-4857-9170-664fdefb6065-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Travel to Northern Vietnam and Thailand in 14 days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/9e44b2ef-e921-456e-a016-16147dfb425d-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam Highlights Tour From North to South 7 Days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/ba9e82c7-8ca4-4b70-878f-04ac514c5bfa-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam in 12 Days: From the North to the South](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/81786ae1-8ae6-450d-9ff8-1820e878eff0-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![10 Days, 10 Colors: A Journey from South to North Vietnam](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/6af9fac3-2be3-4a50-bba3-584ea06c315b-w.360-q.80.jpg)
10 Days, 10 Colors: A Journey from South to North Vietnam
Discover Vietnam's vibrant diversity from south to north in 10 days. Start on the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City and end at the majestic waters of Halong Bay; each stop promises a unique adventure. With this tour, you can explore breathtaking destinations and experience the diverse cultures of Vietnam. Each destination on this South to North Vietnam expedition is handpicked to showcase the country's iconic beauty, ensuring you create lasting memories.
![5 Days in Mountainous North Vietnam: Ha Giang and beyond](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b671263d-a8b6-465d-925a-bd98dd77926a-w.360-q.80.jpg)
5 Days in Mountainous North Vietnam: Ha Giang and beyond
Discover the natural beauty of Northern Vietnam with this North Vietnam 5 days itinerary, perfect for all travelers. Explore the stunning landscapes of Ha Giang, where vibrant rice terraces and traditional villages await. Visit the picturesque Dong Van, the tranquil Ba Be, and the breathtaking Bao Lac. Conclude your journey in the bustling city of Hanoi. This adventure will leave you with lasting memories of a captivating region, filled with serene waters, lush scenery, and rich cultural experiences, making it an ideal North Vietnam 5 days itinerary.
![7-Day Scenic North Vietnam Trekking](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b631c036-28a0-4b39-a18b-56e1ce09a81e-w.360-q.80.jpg)
7-Day Scenic North Vietnam Trekking
Set off on a captivating 7-day trekking adventure through the majestic landscapes of North Vietnam. Trek through Dong Van, navigate winding paths, and explore traditional villages, all while marveling at the extraordinary natural beauty. Traverse the Nho Que River, witness the stunning Ban Gioc Waterfall, and discover the allure of the Cao Bang region amidst the rich tapestry of mountains, valleys, and picturesque rice terraces. Ideal for those who love adventure and are sportive.
![Essence of Northern Vietnam 7 days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/f0e86957-19a6-4917-afff-e80bb3b3ada1-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Essence of Northern Vietnam 7 days
An unforgettable journey in 7 days through the enchanting landscapes of North Vietnam, where you will have the chance to traverse the bustling streets of Hanoi, where ancient temples and vibrant markets intertwine. Trek through the picturesque mountain town of Sapa, encountering ethnic minority villages and breathtaking rice terraces. Then, set sail on a mesmerizing cruise through the awe-inspiring limestone karsts of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This North Vietnam 7 days tour promises a symphony of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences, leaving you with cherished memories of this captivating region.
![Exotic Northeast Vietnam 10 Days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/fa272018-f44d-442c-a61f-7b82dce336b2-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Exotic Northeast Vietnam 10 Days
Escape the ordinary and lose yourself in the magic of exotic North Vietnam for 10 days trekking, where breathtaking landscapes unfold around every bend and vibrant cultures of ethnic minorities of S-shaped country color your every encounter. This carefully curated tour will take you beyond the usual tourist trail and delve into the heart and soul of this captivating corner of Vietnam. Our 10-day tour program offers a unique journey through history, culture, and natural wonders.
![Natural Highlights of North Vietnam in 5 Days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/1fdc001c-15a1-4dfa-9519-7fe0ba4fcca0-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Natural Highlights of North Vietnam in 5 Days
Embark on an easy and accessible Vietnam tour with this North Vietnam itinerary 5 days, perfect for everyone. Explore the natural beauty of Mai Chau, Pu Luong Nature Reserve, and Ninh Binh, often dubbed 'Halong Bay on land,' before concluding your journey in Hanoi. Immerse yourself in vibrant rice terraces, explore traditional Thai villages, and cruise the serene waters. Let this adventure ignite your soul, leaving you with lasting memories of this captivating region. This Northern Vietnam itinerary 5 days is ideal for discovering the charm and beauty of northern Vietnam.
![The Best of Northern Vietnam in 7 Days: All-Inclusive](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/4776f463-60f3-4857-9170-664fdefb6065-w.360-q.80.jpg)
The Best of Northern Vietnam in 7 Days: All-Inclusive
Embark on a 7-day adventure highlighting North Vietnam to explore the magnificent landscapes of Halong Bay, Ninh Binh (often referred to as "Halong Bay on land"), and the breathtaking northern rice terraces. Engage with the exotically beautiful high plateaus, valleys, and settlements. This route, a haven for photographers, offers endless opportunities to capture stunning vistas that epitomize the serene and rugged landscapes of the region.
![Travel to Northern Vietnam and Thailand in 14 days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/9e44b2ef-e921-456e-a016-16147dfb425d-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Travel to Northern Vietnam and Thailand in 14 days
Two of the destinations that cannot be missed that year are Vietnam and Thailand. This trip to Vietnam and Thailand in 14 days will give you excellent experiences and best moments. You will have the opportunity to discover the northern part of Vietnam in a profound way. Visit destinations, monuments and heritage in Hanoi, Ninh Binh and Halong Bay. Enjoy Thai cuisine and learn more about its culture, as well as the daily life of local people.
![Vietnam Highlights Tour From North to South 7 Days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/ba9e82c7-8ca4-4b70-878f-04ac514c5bfa-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Vietnam Highlights Tour From North to South 7 Days
Tailored for seniors, this 7-day Vietnam itinerary from North to South tour offers a serene journey with the unwavering assistance of an English-speaking guide. As you travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, with stops in Hoi An and the Mekong Delta, you'll explore the country's key attractions. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and scenic beauty of the region, exploring its key attractions at a comfortable pace that respects your needs and interests our designed 7-day Vietnam itinerary.
![Vietnam in 12 Days: From the North to the South](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/81786ae1-8ae6-450d-9ff8-1820e878eff0-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Vietnam in 12 Days: From the North to the South
This 12-day Vietnam from North to South itinerary is meticulously designed for travelers to start their adventure in the vibrant capital, Hanoi, and conclude in the dynamic Ho Chi Minh City. Our comprehensive tour takes you through Vietnam's enchanting central region, including the historic city of Hue and the charming town of Hoi An. Along the way, you'll explore the rich tapestry of cultural and natural wonders, all wrapped in an unforgettable 12-day journey through Vietnam.
![Vietnam’s North to South Highlights in 2 Weeks](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b0fc9719-f5ed-4cfa-babb-eea49c5078d9-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Vietnam’s North to South Highlights in 2 Weeks
Our Vietnam 2-week itinerary from north to south offers an overview of the country's three main regions, shaped like an S. To the north, you will visit Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital, experience both the maritime and terrestrial beauty of Halong Bay, and make an excursion to the splendid mountains of Sapa. In the center, explore the ancient imperial city of Hue and the charming old town of Hoi An. The journey concludes in the south with visits to Ho Chi Minh City and the vibrant Mekong Delta. Below are our program suggestions for a comprehensive Vietnam 2-week itinerary in Vietnam.
![Vietnams Northern Charms in 2 Weeks Including Ha Giang Loop](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/e1dfbcf7-3b44-4939-a5b2-747d855f9fb4-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Vietnam's Northern Charms in 2 Weeks Including Ha Giang Loop
This Northern Vietnam 2-week itinerary, including the iconic Ha Giang Loop, takes you through the country's most beautiful and famous destinations. From the expansive blue sea to the majestic northwest mountains and forests, you'll explore the natural wonder of Ha Long Bay and witness Vietnam's most stunning terraced fields. Experience the thousand-year-old stone plateaus and encounter ethnic people in vibrant, colorful costumes. This Northern Vietnam 2-week itinerary blends all these elements to create the most picturesque and unforgettable experience in North Vietnam.