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In this article we are going to tell you everything you need to know to plan your journey from Hanoi to Sapa in 2024. We will give you all the details including prices, schedules, TOP TIPS, how to book your tickets and more.
There really are some important things that you need to know before you go. PLEASE read this guide carefully to avoid making mistakes
We absolutely loved our time in North Vietnam and we highly recommend a visit to Sapa. Sapa is a beautiful mountain town located in the north of Vietnam close to the Chinese border. There are loads of amazing things to do in Sapa. It has a reputation for stunning scenery, beautiful places to stay and there is some amazing trekking in Sapa.
Still need to sort out an amazing place to stay? Don’t miss our guide to the best hotels in Sapa town. All of our recommended hotels are excellently located in Sapa town and offer a lot of character and charm. AND you wont believe some of these DREAMY luxury hotels in Sapa. Luxury paradise immersed in lush green rice paddies set amidst stunning mountains. Alternatively why not take an amazing Sapa homestay?
Summary of the wave to travel from Hanoi to sapa
| Advantages and disadvantages | Journey time | Price | |
| Take a bus | Cheapest way to travel from Hanoi to Sapa. Hotel pick ups often availableComfortable and luxurious – sleeper buses are available. Buses generally have toilets on board. | 6 – 7 hours | 300,000VND – 400,000VND (£10 – £15 or roughly $12 – $18) |
| Take a luxury limo | Take a luxury limo bus transfer. A little more expensive than a bus. Fast, comfortable and they even have wifi on board. They have space for baggage. | 5 – 6 hours | 500,000VND (around £17 or $20) |
| Take a sleeper train | The sleeper train to Sapa is a great experience. Secure private cabins with sufficient space. Good facilities. You can get up and walk around. Bathrooms and sinks on board. You do need to take a mini-bus from Lao Cai to Sapa. | 8 – 9 hours | 700,000VND – 1,000,000VND (£25 – £35 or around $30 – $40) |
| Rent a car and drive | Convenient, quick and independent. Go when you want and stop off along the way if you wish. Door to door. You can use the car in Hanoi and Sapa as well. | 5 – 6 hours | Car rental deals start at around £140 per day (roughly $160) |
Hanoi to sapa map
Why visit Sapa?
Sapa is a beautiful mountain town located over 300km northwest of Hanoi. Sapa has a reputation for stunning homestays, impressive waterfalls, beautiful trekking and unique culture. If you’re planning to visit Sapa we strongly recommend that you stay at an amazing homestay, immerse yourself in rural life, try some of the incredible local food and experience stunning scenery. Don’t miss the beautiful Cat Cat village this lovely little village is immersed in lush green rice terraces and packed with culture
Oh yeah – you may also be interested in our FULL GUIDE – the best Vietnam travel tips
1 Take a bus
The cheapest way to travel from Hanoi to Sapa is to take a bus. Long-distance bus services in Vietnam are more comfortable than other southeast asian countries. Taking a bus from Hanoi to Sapa is a good option if you are traveling on a budget. Many bus companies include a free hotel pick up. However, we always recommend being ready with a backup option if your pick-up does not come through.
We traveled with the Ha Son Hai Van bus company. They have a range of different buses in their fleet. We were particularly impressed with the Royal 20 Cabin Sleeper bus. The bus is spacious, comfortable and surprisingly luxurious. The Royal 20 cabin sleeper bus has comfortable beds with bedding included and an on board entertainment system. We couldn’t get this to work!
There are toilets on board the bus. We also love the thoughtful touch of including a free buffet with drinks and food at the bus station.
How much does it cost to take a bus from Hanoi to sapa?
Buses from between Hanoi and Sapa generally cost around 300,000VND – 400,000VND (approximately £10 – £15 or roughly $12 – $18)
How do you book bus tickets to travel from Hanoi to sapa?
There are several ways to book buses between Hanoi and Sapa. You can book directly with a bus company. Alternatively, speak to a tour operator in Hanoi or Sapa. You can also book Vietnam bus tickets online for this journey. Book tickets between Hanoi and Sapa with Sapa Dragon on Klook.
How long is the bus journey from Hanoi to sapa?
The bus journey normally takes 6 – 7 hours.
Some disadvantages of taking a bus from Hanoi to Sapa:
Here are some of the challenges and disadvantages of taking a bus. Firstly, some travelers have tried to arrange free hotel pick ups and been let down by the bus company. If you have time it may be better to get yourself to the bus station. Furthermore, if you take a night bus be aware that it will probably stop in the night and stops can be noisy and travellers have been woken up by drivers shouting.
If you take a sleeper bus be aware that cubicles may be too short for taller travelers. In some cases you may be dropped off outside of town (e.g. returning to Hanoi). Bus companies should organize transfers. Also a sleeper bus is less secure than a sleeper train. Never leave your valuables in your bag under the bus. Always make sure your valuables bag is very close to you and not accessible to anyone else (don’t leave it on the aisle side).
2 Take a luxury limo
A very fast and convenient way to travel between Hanoi and Sapa is to take a luxury limo van. This is a very comfortable shared 9-seater minibus with Wi-Fi, USB charging sockets, large comfortable seats and space for luggage. Luxury minibus limos offer a hotel pick up between 6am – 7.30am (you will be given an exact pick up time a day or two before departure). and they normally take one or two toilet breaks. It is worth taking a photo of the number plate of your minivan to make sure you find the right one at the end of the break. Many of the luxury limo minibuses do not allow food on board. Make sure you have a good breakfast before your departure.
How much does it cost to take a luxury limo from Hanoi to sapa?
500,000VND (around £17 or $20)
How do you book luxury limo tickets between Hanoi and Sapa?
We recommend that you book luxury limo between Hanoi and Sapa on Klook. This gives accountability, transparency and reassurance – and as ever you will always get a fair price on Klook.
How long is the bus journey from Hanoi to sapa?
The journey takes around 6 – 7 hours arriving at around 2pm at Sapa stone church
Some disadvantages of taking a bus from Hanoi to Sapa:
Taking a luxury limo between Hanoi and Sapa is genuinely a very good option. However, there are still a few setbacks. Firstly, it is important to be aware that you are not allowed to eat food on board. Another challenge of this journey is the bumpy windy road, especially towards the end of the journey. If you struggle with motion sickness this can be pretty tough. We recommend sitting towards the front of the bus if possible and bringing some motion sickness pills. Finally taking the minibus does involve getting quite an early start, especially if you are the first pick up.
3 Take a sleeper train
The sleeper train is a fun, comfortable and unique way to travel between Hanoi and Sapa. Most sleeper trains depart from Hanoi around 9pm – 10pm from Hanoi central Railway station. The sleeper train is more expensive and slower than a bus. However, a sleeper train is likely to be more secure, comfortable and spacious than a bus.
Trains also offer better facilities than a bus. It is not possible to get a sleeper train directly from Hanoi to Sapa. Instead, you need to take a sleeper train to a small town called Lao Cai (on the Chinese border). From here, you can take a mini bus to Sapa.
Minibuses wait in the train station carpark in Lao Cai. They depart regularly once they fill up with passengers. If this sounds too awkward then the bus may be a better option for you (bus services are direct).
How much does it cost to take a train from Hanoi to Sapa?
Train prices vary between 700,000VND – 1,000,000VND (around £25 – £35 or around $30 – $40). You will then need to pay for a minibus transfer from Lao Cai to Sapa costing around 60,000VND. Minibuses wait in the carpark at the front of the station. Alternatively there is a scheduled bus to Sapa which costs 30,000VND per person and departs at 6am, 7am, 7.20am and 8pm.
TOP TIP: This may seem expensive but when you are working out your budget remember that this also gives you one night of accommodation as well as a journey. By taking a sleeper train you are saving the cost of a night of accommodation somewhere else.
How do you book train tickets to travel from Hanoi to Lao Chai?
You can book train tickets directly at the train station in Hanoi. You can book Vietnam train tickets on 12Go.
How long is the train journey from Hanoi to sapa?
The train journey normally takes around 8 – 9 hours, running through the night.
Some disadvantages of taking a bus from Hanoi to Sapa:
There are a few disadvantages of taking the train between Hanoi and Sapa. Firstly, you need to get yourself to the train station. No cushy hotel pick ups. What’s more, night trains arrive quite early in the morning, normally around 5am – 6am. Be prepared to be rushed off the train in the morning. Remember that the train arrive in a town called Lao Cai. It takes an additional 45 minutes – 1 hour to travel to Sapa. It is also worth being aware but there are no food options available on the train. Furthermore, trains do not have any buffet cars, therefore we recommend eating before your journey or bringing food on the train with you.
4 Rent a car and drive
Another way to get to Sapa is to rent a car and drive. This is probably a good option if you are traveling with a group or as a family and you’re looking for a convenient way to get around. One of the great things about renting a car and driving is the freedom. You can choose when to leave, when to stop, where to stop and you can use the car to get around in Sapa and also in Hanoi.
The journey between Hanoi and Sapa is around 315 km by road, this is likely to take around 5 – 6 hours. If you do choose to rent a car and drive in Vietnam we recommend that you are fully qualified, insured and experienced to drive in a country with very busy roads.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Hanoi?
Car rental deals start at around £140 per day (roughly $160)
How do you rent a car in Hanoi?
Did you know that you can use skyscanner to find car rental deals in Hanoi?
https://skyscanner.pxf.io/c/3254142/1027991/13416?associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001How long is the drive between Hanoi and sapa?
The drive between Hanoi and Sapa is likely to take around 5 – 6 hours
Some disadvantages of renting a car in Vietnam for this journey:
Although renting a car is very convenient and allows a lot of freedom there are some disadvantages of doing this. Firstly, car rental is an expensive option. You will also need to consider the price of petrol as well as rental fees – which are pretty high. Car rental is not a good option of you’re traveling on a tight budget. However, if you are traveling as a family you can share the cost across your group and it may actually be worthwhile. Another thing to consider if you are renting a car in Vietnam is safety. We recommend driving very carefully and taking time to learn the new Road rules and conventions. Make sure you are fully qualified and insured to drive in Vietnam. Car rental companies may also request Western Union or Bank Transfers for the deposit.
Summary – what is the best way to travel from Hanoi to sapa?
Overall, the best way to travel between Hanoi and Sapa depends on your budget, desire for convenience and your specific needs as a traveler. If you are traveling on a tight budget we recommend taking a bus. A luxury sleeper bus can also be a very good option for a family, because the beds are comfortable and they also have toilets on board.
If you want a fast convenient trip, we recommend taking the luxury limo van. Slightly more expensive than buses – but may be worthwhile for the smooth efficient journey.
If you’re interested in a new experience and you don’t mind the journey taking longer, it is worth considering the sleeper train. Although sleeper trains are more expensive, remember that you save one night’s accommodation costs by taking this option.
If you are traveling with kids and you want to explore other places along the way and be very mobile, renting a car may be a good option. However, we only recommend renting a car if you have a bigger budget for your trip and you are qualified and comfortable driving in Vietnam.
What are the best places to stay in Sapa?
Here are a few awesome places to stay in Sapa. All of these properties are located in or very near to Sapa town (a short walk at the most).
Sapa Plum Homestay
This lovely budget homestay is located a short walk from Sapa town on a hill to the north. Surrounded by lush farmland and rolling hills, this really is a dreamy place to stay if you’re attracted to a simple and beautiful stay. Rooms have bathtubs, en suite bathrooms and comfortable beds. We also love the pretty garden space here. The only downside. The closest food is in town which is around 10 – 15 minutes walk. The Plum Homestay is one of the cheapest places to stay in Sapa. Slow down and enjoy the relaxed pace. Rooms range in price between £15 – £20
Q Sapa Hotel
Definitely more of a classic hotel than a homestay. Q Sapa hotel is situated in a tall building close to the lake. This charming hotel offers a range of rooms – comfortably furnished with vibrant and artistic designs. This is a great option in Sapa if you’re looking for comfort, convenience at great prices. Rooms generally range in price between £30 – £80 per night
Sapa Pine Hill Eco Lodge
Sapa Pine Hill Eco Lodge offers THE BEST value for money in Sapa. This place is truly magnificent! Sapa Pine offers a range of accommodation including rooms and villas. We love the spacious rooms and lovely wooden interiors – the perfect aesthetic for the lovely natural surroundings of Sapa. This place is seriously impressive – and it is hard to believe you can find a place like this for the price. Book early. £30 – £170 per night
Sapa Mountain Queen House
Clean, super comfortable, luxurious and breathtaking views. The Mountain Queen is our top pick hotel if you are looking for stunning scenery and very comfortable accommodation. This is a great choice for families – we love the family lake view suite with two double beds. They also offer an amazing fresh and tasty breakfast at the Mountain Queen. The quality for price is VERY impressive here. Rooms typically range between £40 – £70
Sapa Horizon Hotel
Welcome to the world of 4 star hotels in Sapa. This is probably the most impressive hotel for a combination of regal luxury and breathtaking views of Fanispan and the surrounding mountains and rice terraces. Seriously – just book the Suite with a mountain view and stay in bed all day! Bliss. Rooms at The Sapa Horizon Hotel generally range in price between £50 – £150 per night.
Hotel De La Coupole
One of the most luxurious hotels around, Hotel De La Coupole offers style, comfort and amazing service. This hotel has a vibrant eclectic 1900 interior design theme throughout the property. There is a heated indoor swimming pool and the food is remarkable. Check out the executive King Suite with its rich regal red interiors. Rooms generally range between £100 – £400 per night. Some room may include breakfast and/or dinner – always check when you book.
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