Train

The train is a popular option for travelers who want to enjoy the scenery of the Vietnamese countryside. The journey from Hanoi to Sapa takes about 8 hours, and the train passes through several beautiful mountain ranges. There are two types of trains that travel from Hanoi to Sapa: the local train and the overnight sleeper train. The local train is cheaper, but it is not as comfortable as the sleeper train. The sleeper train has reclining seats and air conditioning, and it also offers a dining car.

Special Features:

The train journey from Hanoi to Sapa is considered one of the most scenic train rides in Vietnam. You can enjoy the breathtaking views of the countryside, mountains, rice fields, and small villages along the way. Moreover, taking the sleeper train can save you both time and money because it combines transportation and accommodation costs.

Recommended:

I would highly recommend taking the train from Hanoi to Sapa if you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery and have a comfortable journey. However, it’s essential to book your ticket in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment.

Advise:

It’s recommended to bring warm clothes with you during the train ride because the air conditioning can be quite cold. Also, make sure to keep your valuables safe and secure during the journey.

Bus

The bus is another popular option for travelers on a budget. There are several bus companies that offer direct bus services from Hanoi to Sapa. The journey takes about 6 hours, and the buses are usually equipped with reclining seats and air conditioning.

Special Features:

The bus is the most affordable option for traveling from Hanoi to Sapa. It’s also convenient because there are many bus companies to choose from, and they have frequent schedules throughout the day. Moreover, some bus companies offer pick-up services from your hotel in Hanoi.

Recommended:

I would recommend taking the bus if you are on a tight budget and don’t mind spending a few extra hours on the road. However, keep in mind that the scenery may not be as beautiful as the train, and the bus journey can be quite bumpy and uncomfortable.

Advise:

It’s essential to book your bus ticket in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons. Also, make sure to bring some snacks and drinks with you because there are limited options for food and drinks during the journey.

Private Car

If you are traveling with a group of people, you can rent a private car to take you from Hanoi to Sapa. This is the most expensive option, but it is also the most convenient. The journey takes about 5 hours, and the car will take you directly to your hotel in Sapa.

Special Features:

Taking a private car allows you to have more privacy, comfort, and flexibility during the journey. You can stop along the way to take photos or explore other destinations. Moreover, the car rental fee can be shared among the passengers, making it more cost-effective.

Recommended:

I would recommend taking a private car if you are traveling with a group of people and want to have a comfortable and convenient journey. However, keep in mind that this option is more expensive than the other transportation options.

Advise:

It’s crucial to book your private car in advance to ensure availability and negotiate the price with the rental company. Also, make sure to choose a reliable and reputable car rental company to avoid any scams or hidden fees.

Motorbike

If you are an experienced motorbike rider, you can also choose to ride a motorbike from Hanoi to Sapa. This is the cheapest option, but it is also the most challenging. The journey takes about 5 hours, and it’s essential to be aware of the dangers of riding a motorbike in Vietnam.

Special Features:

Riding a motorbike from Hanoi to Sapa allows you to have more freedom, adventure, and flexibility during the journey. You can explore the countryside, stop at local villages, and enjoy the scenic views along the way.

Recommended:

I would recommend taking a motorbike if you are an experienced rider and want to have a unique and adventurous journey. However, keep in mind that this option is not suitable for everyone, especially those who are not familiar with riding a motorbike.

Advise:

It’s crucial to wear a helmet and protective clothing during the journey to ensure your safety. Also, it’s recommended to check the weather forecast before starting the journey and avoid riding during rainy or foggy days.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are four transportation options to get from Hanoi to Sapa: train, bus, private car, and motorbike. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your budget, travel style, and preferences when choosing the best option for you. If you want to enjoy the scenic views and have a comfortable journey, then taking the train or private car is a good choice. If you are on a tight budget and don’t mind spending a few extra hours on the road, then taking the bus or motorbike is a good option. No matter which transportation option you choose, make sure to plan ahead and book your ticket in advance to ensure availability and a smooth journey.

Hanoi -Sapa Tour Package:

• Sapa Riverside Lodge & Amazing Hilltop Bungalows Tour 4 Days
• Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Sapa – Halong Bay Vietnam Tour 8 Days

The Vietnam Royal Express Train typically operates along the popular tourist route between Hanoi and Lao Cai, which connects the capital city to the mountainous region of Sapa. The train journey offers stunning views of the Vietnamese countryside, as it passes through terraced rice fields, scenic valleys, and quaint villages.

Passengers on the Vietnam Royal Express Train can choose from various cabin options, including Deluxe cabins, VIP cabins, and Luxury cabins. Each cabin is equipped with comfortable beds, air conditioning, private bathrooms, and other amenities to ensure a pleasant journey.

In addition to the well-appointed cabins, the train also has a restaurant car where passengers can enjoy a range of Vietnamese and international dishes. There is also a bar where guests can relax and socialize while enjoying drinks.

The Vietnam Royal Express Train is known for its excellent service and friendly staff who are dedicated to providing a high-quality travel experience. The train is a popular choice for both domestic and international tourists who want to explore the beauty of Vietnam in comfort and style.

For price quote and train ticket reservation, please contact us: info@vietnamtoursguide.com

Royal Express Train Photo:

Royal Express Train Ticket Costs:

* A Royal Deluxe Wooden 4 berths cabin at US$64 for one person for return

In terms of accommodation, the Livitrans Express Train features air-conditioned cabins with soft beds, clean linens, and private bathrooms. The cabins are well-equipped with modern amenities such as reading lights, power outlets, and storage space. There are different types of cabins available, including deluxe cabins and VIP cabins, catering to the varying needs of passengers.

The train also offers a dining carriage that serves meals and snacks during the journey, providing passengers with a convenient and enjoyable dining experience. Additionally, there is a bar and lounge area where passengers can relax and socialize.

The Livitrans Express Train provides a safe and efficient mode of transportation, allowing travelers to enjoy the scenic landscapes of Vietnam while traveling in comfort. The train route passes through picturesque areas like the Hai Van Pass and offers stunning views of the countryside.

Overall, the Livitrans Express Train is a luxurious and comfortable option for those looking to travel between Hanoi and Da Nang. It provides a unique and enjoyable experience for tourists exploring the beautiful country of Vietnam.

For price quote and train ticket reservation, please contact us: info@vietnamtoursguide.com

Livitrans Train Photo :

Livitrans Train Ticket Costs:

* A Livitrans Deluxe wooden 4 berths cabin at US$ 69 for one person for return
* A Livitrans Private Deluxe 2 berths cabin at US$ 138 for one person for return
* A Livitrans VIP 2 berths cabin at US$ 158 one pax for return

* Hanoi at 20:35pm to Laocai at 5:00am
* Laocai at 19:30pm to Hanoi at 4:30am

The train features air-conditioned sleeper cabins with soft beds, linen, blankets, pillows, and curtains for privacy. Each cabin usually accommodates four to six passengers and is equipped with power outlets, reading lights, and storage space for luggage.

King Express trains typically operate overnight, allowing passengers to save time and money on accommodation by traveling while they sleep. Some of the popular routes covered by these trains include Hanoi to Lao Cai (for Sapa), Hanoi to Ninh Binh, and Hanoi to Hue.

Passengers can choose from different ticket options, including upper and lower berths. Meals and snacks are often available for purchase onboard, or passengers can bring their own food and drinks.

The train journey on Vietnam King Express is often praised for providing scenic views of the countryside, especially on routes like Hanoi to Sapa. However, it is important to note that train travel in Vietnam can be bumpy and noisy, and the cabins may not offer as much space as other modes of transportation.

Overall, Vietnam King Express train is a popular choice for travelers looking for an affordable and convenient way to explore different cities in Vietnam while enjoying some comfort and rest during their journeys.

For price quote and train ticket reservation, please contact us: info@vietnamtoursguide.com

King Express Train Photos:

King Express Train Ticket Costs:
* Private Deluxe 2 berths cabin: US$ 148 for one person for return ticket
* Deluxe wooden 4 berths cabin: US$70 for one person for return ticket
* Business 4 berths cabin: US$ 62 for one person for return ticket

The train is designed with a nostalgic and elegant Art Deco style, reminiscent of the timeless Orient Express trains of the past. It offers several cabin options, including Deluxe Cabins, President Cabins, and VIP Cabins, all of which are well-equipped with modern amenities.

Passengers on the Vietnam Orient Express train can enjoy exquisite dining experiences in the onboard restaurant car, where a variety of delicious Vietnamese and international dishes are served. There is also a bar car where passengers can relax, socialize, and enjoy a wide range of beverages.

The Vietnam Orient Express train offers an unforgettable travel experience, combining luxury, comfort, and the opportunity to explore the diverse and rich culture of Vietnam. Whether it’s for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a unique journey of discovery, the Vietnam Orient Express train provides a memorable and enchanting way to explore the country.

For price quote and train ticket reservation, please contact us: info@vietnamtoursguide.com

Orient Train Ticket Fare:
* Orient Deluxe wooden 4 berths cabin: US$ 65 for one person for return ticket
* Orient VIP 2 berths cabin: US$ 145 for one person for return ticket
* Private deluxe 2 berths: US$ 134 for one return ticket

The train features different types of cabins to cater to various preferences and budgets. These cabins include the VIP cabin, Deluxe cabin, and Superior cabin. Each cabin is equipped with air conditioning, comfortable beds, clean bedding, reading lights, and electrical outlets. Some cabins also have private bathrooms.

Passengers on the Sapaly Express Train can enjoy complimentary meals and drink services during the journey. The train’s dining car offers a diverse menu with both local and international cuisine options.

The train journey from Hanoi to Sapa on the Sapaly Express Train takes approximately 8-9 hours, with a few stops along the way. The route offers stunning views of the Vietnamese countryside, including mountains, rice terraces, and small villages.

Overall, the Vietnam Sapaly Express Train is a popular choice for travelers seeking a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation between Hanoi and Sapa. It provides a luxurious experience with well-appointed cabins, delicious meals, and picturesque views of the countryside.

For price quote and train ticket reservation, please contact us: info@vietnamtoursguide.com

Sapaly Train Ticket Costs:
Deluxe Wooden 4 Berths Cabin: $60/pax/one way
VIP Wooden 2 Berths Cabin at $80/pax/one way

How to book: Email us info@vietnamtoursguide.com for ticket reservation

Sapaly Train Schedule:
-> Hanoi – Sapa: 9:50 PM => 06:00 AM
-> Sapa – Hanoi: 8:45 PM => 5:10 AM

One big reason I love this country because it is home country of my beautiful Vietnamese fiancée who is my father’s secretary. We are going to get marriage in spring next year. We have many hobbies which can share together; one of these is travelling. We have had some trips to visit attractions in South, Central and North Viet Nam.

I am writing about my experience travelling by night train from Ha Noi to Lao Cai which is not favorite transportation in Viet Nam with foreigners but it bought me the most realistic feeling of a Vietnamese pack-backer.

It was trip in Reunification and International labor holidays from April 30th to 5nd 2015, our group 6 people decided to climb up to Fanxipan, which is the highest mountain in Indochina. To save money, we bought the lowest-class tickets.

There are some trains with same route but different quality. Some luxury trains are for high-income passenger such as Victory, Fanxipan Express, Livitrans but some is for lower living-standard domestic travelers, exp: LC1 train. One member in our group who was born in a middle class family, he suggested us to try this train at least one time since it would give us pictures that had not been ever seen before. And I definitely agreed with this, I had different experience.

The train started journey at 21:00 from Hanoi Train Station. When I stepped up the train, I was shocked with the facilities on the train. Since it is for mostly low-income people traveling with cheap fare, it provides most basically needs: two seat wooden benches, lights, fans, and of course, no air conditioner. One of interesting truth only available on this train is that the Railway Company sells ticket for the last minute passenger when all the benches are filled, these passengers must seat on plastic chair placed at the aisle. For a long trip from Hanoi to Lao Cai, it is too inconvenient and not many people use it. But with some urgent cases, people buy this ticket and then ask others who are already on the bench to allow them to sit together “for a while”. You at first think that it’s just simple “for a while”, but actually it means you’ll share your seat for a whole trip. This is Vietnamese character: nice, helpful and easy going.

Since it was the first time I tried this transportation, I could not sleep well because of noise and uncomfortable feeling. My eye was still opening when the train passed Yen Vien Station. The door opened when a chubby 5 year old boy stepped in the train with his father. When they were finding their seats, I called him and share him the bench with us. He was such a cute, clever little guy. When my friends talked with his father and knew that they was back home for long holidays and they still felt happy when got the tickets at the last minutes of departure.

At midnight, the noise was decreased. People stopped chatting, light was out, most of traveler were sank in their sleeps. Sometimes, some cigarette addicts left their seats, moved to the corridor next to the smelly restroom. Staffs pushed cart with some snacks along cabin, call louder in order to sell something to passengers.

Luckily I am a strong man and I could continue toward to Fanxipan with a sleepless night.

By Fabio Cappiello  (Italy)

To meet the needs of tourists, service providers have upgraded the train with full amenities such as air-conditioner, clean bathroom, and comfortable beds with different names for each type of cars. There are total of seven trains from Hanoi to Lao Cai, namely Livitran Express, Tulico, Panipan Express, Pumpkin, TSC, Ratraco and Royal train.

Generally, it can be divided into three types of cabins: 4-berth cabin, 6-berth cabin and soft-chair cabin. The VIP rooms which costs $60 in Tulico and $80 in Livitran Express, the 4-berth wood panel cabin are the best choice for tourists for their cleanliness, spaciousness and convenience. The price per person in a 4-berth room ranges from $25 to $35 and 6-berth cabin is between $20-$25. A return ticket can also be bought right from Hanoi. Notably, children less than five years old will not be charged any ticket fee and will share beds with their parents.

Train Schedule and Sample Fare

* Train named SP (or Sapa) are more popular option for travellers and make fewer stops on the way

As for train schedule, most trains depart from 20:40, 21:50 or 22:05 and arrive in Lao Cai at 4:35, 5:25 or 7:10, which means that it takes approximately eight to nine hours per ride. There are also two morning trains that depart at 6:10 and 8:20 and arrive in the afternoon at 15:40 and 17:05 though it is not recommended that you take these trains.

Lao Cai station is about 38 kilometers from Sapa, which takes about one hour going by bus or by car. The bus cost from Lao Cai – Sapa is $2 and ticket is available for purchase at the train station gate. Normally the bus stop is right in front of Sapa church, but tourists can also ask the bus driver to drop them off at their booked hotel.

For information and booking a train to Sapa, Please contact us info@vietnamtoursguide.com

The Ratraco Express Train offers overnight travel options for tourists and locals alike. It features modern air-conditioned sleeper cabins with bunk beds, clean bedding, and other basic amenities. The train cabins come in different classes to cater to different budgets, including soft sleepers, hard sleepers, and soft seats.

The train journey from Hanoi to Lao Cai takes approximately 8 hours, covering a distance of around 350 kilometers. Lao Cai is the closest train station to the popular tourist destination of Sapa, known for its beautiful mountains, terraced rice fields, and ethnic minority communities.

The Ratraco Express Train is known for its punctuality and reliability. The staff are generally friendly and provide good service to passengers. However, it is important to note that the train may not offer the same level of comfort and luxury as other transportation options, such as airplanes or private cars.

Overall, the Vietnam Ratraco Express Train is a convenient and affordable means of travel for those looking to explore Sapa and the northern region of Vietnam. It allows passengers to enjoy the scenic landscapes and experience the local culture while moving between Hanoi and Lao Cai.

For price quote and train ticket reservation, please contact us: info@vietnamtoursguide.com

Ratraco Express Train Photo:

Ratraco Express Train Ticket Costs:

* A Ratraco Wooden Deluxe 4 berths cabin at US$66 for one person for return