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Hanoi, Ha Noi Municipality to Sapa, Lao Cai from $12: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Hanoi, Vietnam
to
Sapa, Vietnam

How to Get from Hanoi to Sapa: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$12 by busBest price
158 kmDistance
3h 34m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Hanoi to Sapa with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Sao Viet
Bus
Average Duration
5h  45m
Estimated price
$12-19
Recommended
Company
Sao Viet
Bus
Average Duration
5h  45m
Estimated price
$12-19
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 158 km
Duration: 3h 34m

See more options

Company
Eco Sapa Travels
Drive
Average Duration
3h  34m
Estimated price
$25-25
Company
Vietnam Railways
Train
Average Duration
8h  17m
Estimated price
$29-44
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
3h  34m
Estimated price
$35-55
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Hanoi to Sa Pa

The journey from Hanoi's bustling streets to Sa Pa's serene rice terraces offers a striking contrast between urban vibrancy and tranquil mountain landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sa Pa

Sa Pa's neighborhoods showcase a blend of culture and stunning landscapes.

Sapa Town
• Central to markets and dining options.
• Offers a vibrant local atmosphere.
Cat Cat Village
• Features traditional Hmong culture and craftsmanship.
• Scenic views with cascading waterfalls.
Ta Van Village
• Nestled among rice terraces for breathtaking scenery.
• Home to diverse ethnic minority communities.

Best Times To Visit Sa Pa's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in Sa Pa's stunning attractions.

Fansipan Mountain
Visit early mornings or weekdays for fewer crowds on the trails.
Rice Terraces
Spring and autumn offer the most vibrant colors and fewer tourists.
Cat Cat Village
Mornings are ideal to explore the village before larger groups arrive.

Sa Pa Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sa Pa experiences a cool, temperate climate with distinct seasons, making spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) ideal for visits. Weather conditions, including misty days and occasional rain, can impact viewing experiences, so packing accordingly enhances your trip.

Dining Recommendation in Sa Pa

Don’t miss trying the local specialty, ‘thang co,’ a flavorful horse meat soup traditionally enjoyed by the ethnic Mong people, which offers a rustic and hearty experience that sharply contrasts Hanoi's more refined street food. Dining in Sa Pa often takes place amidst breathtaking mountain views, enhancing the enjoyment of fresh, locally sourced ingredients that define the region's distinct culinary identity.

Hanoi - Sapa operators

Explore transport companies operating between Hanoi and Sapa, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1900 6746
Website
xesaoviet.com.vn

Bus from Hanoi Hoan Kiem to Sapa

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$13-19
Contact phone
19006776
Website
futahason.com

Bus from My Dinh bus station to Sapa bus station

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$12-17
Contact phone
+84 2466821555
Website
sapaexpress.com

Bus from Hanoi to Sapa

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
$15-15
Contact phone
+84 098 470 9669
Website
greenlionbus.com

Bus from Hanoi to Sapa

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
$17-17
Contact phone
+84 167 555 6666
Website
ecosapabus.com

Bus from Hanoi to Sapa

Average Duration
3h 34m
Estimated price
$25-25
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
19006469
Website
dsvn.vn

Train from Gia Lam to Sapa Lao Cai

Average Duration
8h 17m
Estimated price
$29-44

Hanoi to Sapa: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Hanoi and Sapa offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Hanoi to Sa Pa by car, covering a distance of 196 miles. Admire the changing landscapes as you wind through the Vietnamese countryside, a drive that takes around 3 hours and 34 minutes. 💰 Experience the convenience and flexibility of traveling to Sa Pa from Hanoi by car, with prices typically ranging from $35 to $55. Explore the freedom of the open road and make impromptu stops to capture breathtaking views along the way.
Average price
$35 - $55
🚆 Traveling by train from Hanoi to Sa Pa takes approximately 8 hours and 17 minutes, offering a convenient and scenic journey through Vietnam. 🎟️ Tickets for the train ride between Hanoi and Sa Pa typically range from $29 to $44, making it an affordable transportation option for travelers with varying budgets.
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Hanoi to Sa Pa, expect services like food and drink available from the catering staff. Most operators provide a selection of Vietnamese dishes, snacks, and drinks. Be sure to try traditional offerings like Pho or Banh Mi if available, and keep an eye out for the tea service, which is quite popular on these trains.
• For seating options, the popular operators on this route include Vietnam Railways, Sapa Express, and Victoria Express. Vietnam Railways typically offers Soft Sleeper (First Class), Hard Sleeper (Second Class), and seated options. Sapa Express and Victoria Express offer more comfortable alternatives like Luxury Sleeper and VIP seats with reclined chairs. Make sure to book your ticket based on your desired comfort level and budget. You can find more details at their respective websites: Vietnam Railways (vietnamrailway.gov.vn), Sapa Express (sapaco.com.vn), and Victoria Express (victoriahotels.asia).
• Upon arrival at Lao Cai Station for your Sa Pa trip, note that while there are restrooms available, there are no shower facilities, and luggage storage options at the station are limited. To navigate from Lao Cai to Sa Pa, the fastest way is to take a taxi or a local shuttle bus. The shuttle buses run frequently, and you can find them right outside the train station. Look for buses that are labeled 'Sa Pa' and expect a travel time of about 1 hour to the city center.
🚌 Take a direct bus from Hanoi Hoan Kiem to Sapa station, with services running hourly every day. The journey by bus from Hanoi to Sapa takes approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes. 🌄 Enjoy the scenic route as you travel the 317-kilometer distance from Hanoi to Sa Pa. Bus services operated by Sao Viet make the trip comfortable and convenient, with prices ranging from $12 to $19.
Departure Point
Hanoi Hoan Kiem station
Arrival Point
Sapa station
Useful tips for bus travellers
Before boarding your bus from Hanoi to Sapa, consider purchasing your ticket online through Sao Viet's website for a guaranteed seat; they offer comfortable sleeper buses for a relaxing journey. Visit their site here: saovietbus.com
During your trip, keep an eye on the changing landscapes as you approach Sa Pa; the bus will pass through stunning mountain views and rice terraces—don't forget to have your camera ready for some perfect shots!
Upon arrival at Sapa station, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the area; there are various local transport options available, such as taxis and motorbike taxis, to get you to your hotel or the town center, and it's useful to have the address written in Vietnamese to show drivers.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Hanoi to Sapa.

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The distance between Hanoi and Sa Pa is 158 miles by road. This takes approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes by car and 8 hours and 17 minutes by train. If you prefer a more scenic route, you can take a ferry, which takes around 3 hours and 34 minutes. Another option is to take a bus, which usually takes about 5 hours and 45 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Hanoi to Sa Pa is by bus, with fares ranging from $12 to $19. Although it takes around 5 hours and 45 minutes, it offers a reasonable balance between time and cost. If time is of the essence, driving is the quickest option, taking approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes. However, it is a bit more expensive, with costs ranging from $35 to $55.
The prices for traveling from Hanoi to Sa Pa vary depending on the mode of transportation. For trains, the prices range from $27 to $46. Buses offer a more affordable option, with prices ranging from $12 to $19. If you choose to take a ferry, the cost is $25. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change, so it is recommended to check for updated fares before booking your trip.
To get from Hanoi to Sa Pa without using public transportation, you can opt to hire a private car or book a taxi. The driving distance between the two destinations is approximately 193 miles, and it takes around 3 hours and 29 minutes to reach Sa Pa by car. The price of hiring a car can vary, ranging from $35 to $55, depending on the type of vehicle and the rental company you choose.
To travel from Hanoi to Sa Pa without a car, the best option is to take a bus, which typically takes around 5 hours and 45 minutes and costs between $12 and $19. The bus provides a convenient and affordable option for travelers. Additionally, taking the bus allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic route from Hanoi to Sa Pa.
Yes, there is a direct link between Hanoi and Sa Pa. The Sao Viet bus service operates hourly, every day, from Hanoi Hoan Kiem station to Sapa station. The journey by bus takes approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes. This provides a convenient and direct mode of transportation between the two cities.
There are 541+ hotels available near Sa Pa offering a variety of options for accommodation. Prices for these hotels start at $24 per night, making it possible to find a suitable place to stay within different budget ranges. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there are plenty of choices available to meet your needs in Sa Pa.