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The stunning Sapa, nestled amidst the clouds in Northern Vietnam, offers breathtaking mountain views, vibrant ethnic villages, and a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you’re planning a trip but don’t know how to get to Sapa from Hanoi, we’re here to help! As a well-known destination on the Vietnam tourist map, there are several ways to make the journey. Here’s a rundown of your options, complete with pros, cons, and everything in between to help you choose the best way to reach this beautiful town.

Distance between Hanoi and Sapa

Sapa, located in the Lao Cai province of northwestern Vietnam, is approximately 320 kilometers (about 200 miles) from Hanoi. The travel time between the two can vary based on the mode of transportation. A private car or direct shuttle bus typically takes around 5-6 hours. If you opt for the night train from Hanoi to Lao Cai, it takes about 8-9 hours, followed by a 1-hour bus or taxi ride to Sapa, making the total travel time around 9-10 hours. We'll be getting into details about how you can reach Sapa from Hanoi with different travel options.

How do you get to Sapa from Hanoi?

By Train

The most popular way to get to Sapa from Hanoi is by night train. You’ll catch it at Hanoi’s main train station (Ga Hà Nội). Trains typically leave in the evening, around 9-10 PM, and arrive in Lao Cai early the next morning, around 5-6 AM. From Lao Cai, it's about an hour and a half bus ride to Sapa.

You can book a soft sleeper berth, which is quite comfy. Some trains even have luxury cabins if you want to splurge a bit. Since you’re traveling overnight, you save on hotel costs and get to maximize your daytime in Sapa. Plus, waking up to the beautiful scenery of Northern Vietnam is quite a treat.

However, train rides can be bumpy and noisy, and you’ll need to get from Lao Cai to Sapa, which adds an extra step to your journey. It’s best to book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure you get a good spot. You can book your ticket on the Vietnam Railways website. Once you get to Lao Cai Station, you can hop on a bus to Sapa, which arrives every 20 minutes. Tickets cost around 30.000 VND, and can be purchased directly on the bus.

Duration: About 8–9 hours.

Ticket Prices:

Soft Sleeper (4-berth cabin): Around $30–40 USD.

Luxury Sleeper (2-berth cabin): Can go up to $80–100 USD

By Bus

For those who are traveling on a budget, you can hop on a bus, which is the cheapest way to get to Sapa from Hanoi. Buses depart from various points in Hanoi, with many leaving from the Old Quarter or My Dinh bus station. You’ll find day and night buses, depending on your schedule and preference. Most buses go straight to Sapa, so you don’t have to worry about transfers.

With multiple departures throughout the day and night, you can pick a time that suits you best. The bus ride is a bit longer compared to the train plus transfer combo. Typically around 5-6 hours, but it can be up to 7-8 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Opt for well-known bus operators like Sapa Express, Green Sapa Bus, or Goodmorning Sapa for a safer and more comfortable ride. You can also choose schedules that arrive during the daytime, as getting around at night can be dangerous. You can book tickets online or via a local travel agency to save the hassle.

Duration: 7–8 hours 

Ticket price: Around $15–20 USD

By Limousine

You can book a Hanoi to Sapa limousine service, which offers a more luxurious and comfortable ride compared to regular buses. Limousines usually depart from Hanoi's Old Quarter or from your hotel, making it super convenient. 

The limousines are incredibly comfortable, with spacious seats that recline and sometimes even offer massage functions. The journey is direct, so you won’t need to worry about any transfers. Additionally, the service is more personalized, often including amenities like Wi-Fi, snacks, and water.  Limousines are more expensive than regular buses or trains. If you have a little more wiggle room in your budget, why not? You’ll get to experience 5 hours of luxury and comfort, with stops along the way for you to use the restroom and buy snacks. Opt for reputable companies like Cat Ba Panorama, Eco Sapa Limousine, or Sapa Express. You can buy tickets online.

Duration: 5-6 hours

Ticket Prices: $25-40 USD per person for a one-way trip. 

By Private Car

You can book a Hanoi to Sapa private car through a local tour company, such as Vietnam Original Travel. The driver will pick you up from your hotel or any preferred location, making it super convenient. 

Traveling by private car is incredibly flexible; you can set your own schedule and make stops along the way to enjoy the scenery, take photos, or grab a bite to eat. It’s also the most comfortable and private option, perfect for families or groups. Additionally, the door-to-door service eliminates the hassle of transfers. It’s the most expensive option compared to buses, trains, and limousines.

Duration: 5-6 hours

Ticket Prices: $120-180 USD for a one-way trip.

How to get to Sapa from Hanoi Airport

Getting to Sapa directly from Hanoi Airport (Noi Bai International Airport) takes less time, as the distance from Noi Bai International Airport to Sapa is only 285 km, taking about 4 hours. Several companies offer direct shuttle bus or limousine services from Hanoi Airport to Sapa. You can also opt for a 9-seat limousine if you're traveling with your family, which also offers drop-offs at your hotel. You can book tickets for buses or limousines online in advance or find counters at the airport. For more comfort and privacy, opt for a private car transfer via a travel agency or a car rental service.

How to get to Sapa from Hanoi By tour package

Booking a Hanoi to Sapa tour package usually includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and guided tours.

Everything is organized for you, from transportation to accommodation and activities, so you don’t have to worry about any details. You’ll get a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights and history about Sapa and its surroundings. Meals are often included, saving you the hassle of finding places to eat. Group tours can be a great way to meet other travelers and share experiences.

Duration: Most Hanoi to Sapa tour packages are 2–3 days, including travel time.

Ticket Prices: Prices for a 2–day tour can range from $100 to $200 USD per person, while a 3–day tour can range from $150 to $300 USD per person, depending on the level of accommodation and the inclusions.

Enjoy the hassle-free experience of a tour package to Sapa, and have an amazing time exploring this beautiful region! Let us take care of the rest; you can check out our Sapa tour from Hanoi below:

Sapa tour from Hanoi 2 days 

Day 1: Hanoi to Sapa - Explore Cat Cat Village

Depart from Hanoi. If you’re taking a private car or shuttle bus, you'll start early to maximize your time in Sapa. Alternatively, if you took a night train, you would arrive in Lao Cai early in the morning and take a bus or taxi to Sapa. Arrive in Sapa and check into your hotel. Take some time to freshen up and have lunch at a local restaurant.

Head out to explore Cat Cat Village, located just 2 kilometers from Sapa town. This is one of the oldest villages of the Black H'Mong ethnic group. Enjoy the scenic walk, visit local homes, and learn about traditional crafts. Explore the waterfall in Cat Cat Village and take in the stunning views of the terraced rice fields.

Return to Sapa town and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Afterward, you can stroll around Sapa town, visit the local market, or relax at a café.

Day 2: Sapa—Trekking to Lao Chai and Ta Van—Return to Hanoi

Have breakfast at your hotel. Begin a trekking tour to Lao Chai and Ta Van villages. This trek offers breathtaking views of the Muong Hoa Valley, terraced rice paddies, and local villages. You’ll have the chance to interact with the Black H'Mong and Giay ethnic minorities.

Enjoy a picnic lunch or eat at a local homestay in Ta Van Village. Continue exploring the village. Head back to Sapa town, freshen up, and prepare for departure. 

Depart from Sapa back to Hanoi via shuttle bus or private car. If you’re taking the night train, you’ll head to Lao Cai train station first. Arrive back in Hanoi, marking the end of your 2-day Sapa tour from Hanoi.

So there you have it, all the ways to get from Hanoi to Sapa! Whether you’re up for an overnight train adventure, a comfy limousine ride, or prefer the convenience of a private car, there’s a travel option to suit every style and budget. If you have any further questions on how to book tickets or are interested in taking a tour to Sapa, don’t hesitate to contact Vietnam Original Travel!

=> Sapa Tour 3 Days