Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, is known for its rich history, vibrant street food scene, and charming Old Quarter. Located 320 km (200 miles) southeast of Sapa, Hanoi is accessible by bus, train, private car, or motorbike. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.
Overview of Travel Options
Here are the main ways to get from Sapa to Hanoi:
- By Bus: The cheapest and most convenient option.
- By Train: The most comfortable and scenic option.
- By Private Car or Taxi: The fastest and most flexible choice.
- By Motorbike: The most adventurous and scenic route.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Sapa to Hanoi.
Timetable
| Bus Sapa - Hanoi â‚« 379k 5h | |
|
|
| Van Sapa - Hanoi â‚« 419k 5h 5m | |
|
| Bus Sapa - Noi Bai Airport â‚« 236k–819k 4h 30m – 16h | |
|
|
| Taxi Sapa - Noi Bai Airport â‚« 2,423k–7,536k 3h 55m – 5h 30m | |
|
|
| Van Sapa - Noi Bai Airport â‚« 454k 5h 30m | |
|
| Train Lao Cai - Hanoi â‚« 704k–4,696k 7h 32m – 8h 20m | |
|
By Bus: The Cheapest and Most Convenient Option
Taking a direct bus from Sapa to Hanoi is the most affordable and convenient way to travel, with multiple departures throughout the day.
Key Details:
- Departure Points:
- Sapa Bus Station.
- Hotel pickup in Sapa (for tourist buses).
- Arrival Points in Hanoi:
- Hanoi Old Quarter (Tourist Bus Drop-off).
- My Dinh Bus Station.
- Duration: 5.5 to 6.5 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
- Price: 250,000–400,000 VND (~$10–$18 USD).
- Bus Operators:
- Sapa Express (Popular with tourists).
- EcoSapa Limousine (Comfortable and reliable).
- Hung Thanh Bus (Budget option).
- Bus Types:
- Sleeper Bus (Reclining seats, A/C, blankets).
- VIP Limousine (Fewer seats, more legroom, A/C).
- Departure Frequency: Every 1–2 hours from morning to evening.
- Arrival in Hanoi: Near the Old Quarter and popular hotels.
Pros:
- Cheapest travel option (~250,000 VND for standard buses).
- Direct travel without transfers.
- Multiple departures throughout the day.
- Comfortable seating with A/C.
Cons:
- Traffic delays are possible, especially entering Hanoi.
- Overnight buses may affect sleep quality.
- Basic seating on budget buses.
- Limited luggage space on VIP Limousines.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, choose a VIP Limousine with reclining seats and more legroom. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.
By Train: The Most Comfortable and Scenic Option
Taking an overnight train from Sapa (Lao Cai) to Hanoi is one of the most comfortable and scenic ways to travel, passing through mountainous landscapes and rural villages.
Key Details:
- Route: Sapa → Lao Cai (by shuttle) → Hanoi (by train).
- Departure Point: Lao Cai Railway Station (1 hour from Sapa by shuttle).
- Arrival Point: Hanoi Railway Station (Near Old Quarter).
- Duration: 8 to 9 hours (including shuttle transfer).
- Price: 400,000–1,200,000 VND (~$17–$50 USD), depending on class.
- Train Types:
- Overnight Express Trains (Comfortable and scenic).
- Seating Options:
- Soft Sleeper (4-berth cabin, most comfortable).
- Hard Sleeper (6-berth cabin, budget-friendly, less space).
- Popular Train Operators:
- Victoria Express (Luxury option).
- Sapaly Express (Comfortable and reliable).
- King Express (Budget-friendly).
- Departure Frequency: Evening departures arriving in Hanoi early morning.
Pros:
- Most comfortable option (~8 hours of sleep and scenic views).
- No traffic delays.
- Private cabins for families or groups.
- Ideal for saving on a night’s accommodation.
Cons:
- Requires a shuttle transfer from Sapa to Lao Cai.
- Hard Sleeper cabins can be crowded.
- Limited availability for Soft Sleeper cabins.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, book a Soft Sleeper cabin. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.
By Private Car or Taxi: The Fastest and Most Flexible Choice
For travelers who prefer privacy, comfort, and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi from Sapa to Hanoi is the most convenient choice, especially for families and groups.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Pickup from your hotel in Sapa.
- Arrival Point: Drop-off at your hotel in Hanoi.
- Duration: 5 to 5.5 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
- Price: 3,500,000–4,500,000 VND (~$150–$190 USD), depending on car type and operator.
- Car Types:
- Sedan (Up to 3 passengers, more affordable).
- SUV or Van (Up to 6 passengers, more spacious).
Pros:
- Fastest travel option (~5 hours).
- Door-to-door service, no need for transfers.
- Comfortable for families and groups.
- Flexible travel schedule and scenic stops along the way.
Cons:
- More expensive than buses and trains.
- Traffic delays are possible entering Hanoi.
Booking Tip:
For the best rates, book your private car in advance using our online search form.
By Motorbike: The Most Adventurous and Scenic Route
For adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike and riding from Sapa to Hanoi is a thrilling experience, offering breathtaking mountain views and flexible stops.
Key Details:
- Route: Sapa → Lao Cai → Yen Bai → Hanoi.
- Distance: 320 km (200 miles).
- Duration: 8 to 10 hours, including scenic stops.
- Price: 250,000–400,000 VND per day (~$10–$18 USD), depending on bike type.
- Motorbike Rental Services:
- Sapa Motorbike Rental.
- Vietnam Motorbike Tours.
- Requirements:
- International Driving Permit (IDP).
- Motorbike insurance recommended.
Pros:
- Most adventurous and scenic option.
- Flexible schedule with stops at scenic viewpoints.
- Ideal for solo travelers or couples.
Cons:
- Requires motorbike riding experience.
- Not recommended during rainy season (May–August).
Booking Tip:
For better safety, rent a reliable motorbike with a helmet. Use our online search form to compare rental options.
