Latest round-trip train ticket prices to Sapa (2024)
Viet Transfers
Updated on Aug 1, 2024
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Trains are among the safest modes of transportation in the travel and tourism industry, making them a popular choice for many customers looking to explore the beautiful town of Sapa in Lao Cai. Thanks to the development of the railway sector and the tourism industry, there are now more high-quality train services from Hanoi to Lao Cai operated by various travel companies each day, instead of just one option from Vietnam Railways. The ticket prices for trains to Sapa vary between different carriages and companies. If you want to travel to Sapa by train but have no experience in this field, follow our article on the latest 2024 train ticket prices to Sapa right below!
Why choose to travel to Sapa by train?
To get to Sapa, you have many transportation options. So why should you choose to travel to Sapa by train? Let’s explore the reasons why taking the train to Sapa is a wise choice.
Trains are considered one of the safest modes of transportation for travelers throughout the journey. The route to Sapa involves traversing challenging terrain, including high mountains in the Northwest and winding, narrow roads. This can be less daunting when you’re seated in a train carriage, enjoying the beautiful mountainous scenery as the train passes by. Trains travel at a relatively slow pace, which helps reduce motion sickness and provides a more comfortable experience during your journey.
[su_image_carousel source=”media: 21197″ slides_style=”minimal” crop=”3:2″ spacing=”no” align=”center” max_width=”700px” captions=”yes” link=”lightbox” autoplay=”0″ image_size=”full” outline=”no”]Train carriages are also equipped with complete restroom facilities, which adds convenience and eliminates the need to rely on stopovers, unlike when traveling by bus.
How long does it take to travel to Sapa by train?
Currently, there are no trains that travel directly to Sapa. Therefore, you need to book a train ticket to Lao Cai station, which is about 35 km from Sapa. Once you arrive at the station, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Sapa town.
About travel time, traveling by train from Hanoi station to Lao Cai station takes approximately 7 to 8 hours. Trains typically depart at night between 9 PM and 10 PM and arrive around 4 AM to 7 AM. Depending on weather conditions, the arrival time may be earlier or later than expected. From Lao Cai to Sapa, it takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour by car. So, the total travel time to Sapa by train is around 8 to 9 hours.
[su_image_carousel source=”media: 20585″ slides_style=”minimal” crop=”3:2″ spacing=”no” align=”center” max_width=”700px” captions=”yes” link=”lightbox” autoplay=”0″ image_size=”full” outline=”no”]Latest train ticket prices to Sapa 2024 (Updated)
Currently, there are several train options from Hanoi to Sapa, including both passenger and mixed-use trains. Passengers can choose between day trains (slower and carrying both goods and passengers) and overnight luxury trains. For a more comfortable experience, the luxury trains are recommended as they offer cleaner, more elegant interiors and quicker travel times. Here are some of the premium train options:
- Sapaly Express
- Chapa Express
- Pumpkin Expess Train
- Vic Sapa Train
- Damitrans Express Train
- New Livitrans Express Train
- Family Express Train
- Fanxipan Express
These luxury trains generally offer a higher standard of comfort compared to standard trains operated by Vietnam Railways, and the prices for these trains are typically higher, especially for cabin configurations with 4 beds.
[su_image_carousel source=”media: 21199,21200,21201,21202,21203,21192,21193,21194,21195,21196″ slides_style=”minimal” crop=”3:2″ spacing=”no” align=”center” max_width=”700px” captions=”yes” link=”lightbox” autoplay=”0″ image_size=”full” outline=”no”]Updated Ticket Prices for Luxury Cabin (4-bed) on Sapa Trains
Departure: Tran Quy Cap Station, Hanoi
Arrival: Lao Cai Station
| Train company | Train code | Departure Time – Arrival time |
Ticket Price | Amenities |
| Vietnam Railways | SP3 SP4 |
22h00 – 05h55 21h30 – 05h25 |
from 420.000 VND |
The 4-berth cabin is spacious and comfortable, with beds covered with linens, pillows, and blankets. |
| Damitrans Express | SP3 SP4 |
22h00 – 05h55 21h30 – 05h25 |
from 680.000 VND |
The 4-berth cabin is spacious and comfortable, with beds covered with linens, pillows, and blankets. The interior features attractive wood paneling and air conditioning with both cooling and heating functions. Each bed is equipped with a reading light, a personal storage box, and ample luggage space. Passengers are provided with complimentary drinks and cold towels, and there are two clean restrooms located at the ends of the cabin. |
| New Livitrans Express | SP1 SP2 |
21h35 – 05h15 20h55 – 04h35 |
from 680.000 VND |
The 4-berth cabin is spacious and comfortable, with beds covered with linens, pillows, and blankets. The interior features attractive wood paneling and air conditioning with both cooling and heating functions. Each bed is equipped with a reading light, a personal storage box, and ample luggage space. Passengers are provided with complimentary drinks and cold towels, and there are two clean restrooms located at the ends of the cabin. |
| Vic Sapa Train | SP3 SP4 |
22h00 – 05h55 21h30 – 05h25 |
from 750.000 VND |
The train features a 4-star standard. It has 7 cabins, each with 4 beds, adorned with natural wood paneling and equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, comfortable beds, reading lights, personal storage boxes, and bed linens. Each cabin also includes a clean, modern washroom and handwashing facilities.
Additionally, the train company offers a 4-berth cabin that can be converted into a VIP 2-berth cabin, providing guests with a more spacious, comfortable, and private environment. |
| Pumpkin Express | SP1 SP2 |
21h35 – 05h15 20h55 – 04h35 |
from 680.000 VND |
The train car is designed with 7 compartments, each featuring 4 soft beds with air conditioning, a table, reading lights, electrical outlets, curtains, a vase, and free Wi-Fi.
Additionally, the Pumpkin train compartment can be converted into a VIP 2-bed cabin. |
| Sapaly Express | SP3 SP4 |
22h00 – 05h55 21h30 – 05h25 |
from 690.000 VND |
The Sapaly train has 2 cars with a total capacity of 52 passengers. One car has 6 cabins and the other has 7 cabins on the SP3 and SP4 trains. Each compartment has 4 beds and can be configured into a 2-bed VIP cabin upon request.
The train cars are very well-appointed with modern amenities. In addition, passengers receive complimentary items including a bottle of mineral water, a cup of drink, a toothbrush, toothpaste, a face towel, a comb, hotel slippers, and some sweets. |
| Chapa Express | SP3 SP4 |
22h00 – 05h55 21h30 – 05h25 |
from 790.000 VND |
The train car features 7 private cabins, each adorned with wood paneling and designed in traditional Sapa style. Each cabin is equipped with comfortable soft beds, plush bedding, air conditioning, reading lamps, luxurious furnishings, clean restrooms, and hot water.
Each cabin on the Chapa Express has 4 beds and can be converted into a VIP 2-bed cabin upon request. This is achieved by folding up 2 of the beds, creating a more private and spacious area for passengers. |
| Fanxipan Express | SP3 SP4 |
22h00 – 05h55 21h30 – 05h25 |
from 700.000 VND |
The train car features 7 separate cabins, each lined with wooden panels and designed in traditional Sapa style. Each cabin is equipped with comfortable beds, soft bedding, air conditioning, reading lamps, luxurious interiors, clean restrooms, and hot water.
Each cabin on the Fanxipan Express has 4 beds and can be converted into a VIP 2-bed cabin upon request. This is done by folding up 2 of the beds, creating a more private and spacious area for passengers. |
| Family Express | SP3 SP4 |
22h00 – 05h55 21h30 – 05h25 |
from 700.000 VND |
This is a premium train car on the Hanoi – Lao Cai – Hanoi route. The train features 2 luxury compartments.
Each car has 2 deluxe cabins (2 beds) and the remaining cabins are 4-bed cabins that can be configured into 2 beds, with the upper bunks foldable upon request. Passengers will be provided with a bottle of water, a face towel, and light snacks. |
| Victoria Express | SP3 SP4 |
22h00 – 05h55 21h30 – 05h25 |
from 1.400.000 VND |
Each cabin on the train features 2 VIP beds with 5-star professional service. |
*For Vietnam Railways’ service, the ticket prices are relatively affordable compared to premium service trains. However, sleeper cabins are often fully booked, so passengers usually need to book tickets at least a month in advance for their trip to Sapa.
How to buy train tickets to Sapa
Option 1: Purchase at the station
The simplest way is to go directly to Tran Quy Cap station in Hanoi to buy your ticket to Sapa. You can visit the ticket counters and ask the staff for assistance. During regular days with fewer passengers, soft seat tickets are usually available even if you arrive around 7-8 PM on the day of travel. However, sleeper tickets can sell out quickly due to resellers in the “black market.” Generally, it’s advisable to book sleeper tickets at least a week or even a month in advance.
Option 2: Online Purchase
Alternatively, you can buy tickets online through the official website of Vietnam Railways at dsvn.vn or through reputable travel agencies as Viet Transfers. Simply visit the website, choose the train and service that suits you, make your payment, and you’ll receive your ticket via email. Be cautious and avoid purchasing tickets from the black market or unreliable agents to prevent paying excessively high prices or receiving counterfeit tickets.
To book a sleeper train early, you can purchase train tickets directly on the Viet Transfers website here or +84846551122 (Whatsapp) (24 hours) / Email: booking@viettransfers.com.
Should you travel to Sapa by train and what are the tips for the Hanoi-Sapa train journey?
Many travelers are debating whether to visit Sapa by train or by bus. According to statistics, the majority of tourists still choose to travel by bus due to the longer journey time and fewer trains available each day, along with higher costs. However, for those opting for the train, there are significant advantages in terms of comfort, service, and safety, as trains are generally safer compared to buses and cars.
Advantages of the Hanoi-Lao Cai train:
- Safety: Train travel is considered the safest mode of transportation.
- Comfort: The spacious environment on the train offers a more comfortable journey compared to buses, especially in luxury compartments that come with modern amenities.
- Scenic Views: The slower pace of the train allows passengers to enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way.
- No Overcrowding: During peak seasons, you won’t experience the crowded conditions often found on buses.
- Luggage: You can bring a generous amount of luggage without much hassle.
- Night Travel: Tourist trains usually operate at night, allowing passengers to sleep through the journey and arrive in Lao Cai in the morning.
Disadvantages of the Hanoi-Lao Cai train:
- Long Travel Time: The journey takes at least 7-9 hours, compared to about 6 hours by bus.
- Limited Departure Times: There are fewer train schedules available.
- Distance to Sapa: The train only goes to Lao Cai Station, which is about 30 km from Sapa, so additional travel by car or taxi is required to reach Sapa itself.
Tips for traveling to Sapa by train
Book train tickets 1-2 months in advance
If you plan to travel to Sapa by train during peak seasons, such as holidays or festivals, it’s essential to book your tickets early as they can sell out quickly. Booking 1-2 months in advance not only ensures you secure a ticket but also gives you time to prepare for your trip and possibly find cheaper fares. For large groups, early booking will help you get the seats you prefer.
Double-check ticket information
Whether you buy your ticket directly at the station or online, always double-check the information on your ticket. For tickets purchased at the station, verify that all details match your travel plans. For online bookings, confirm all details before finalizing your payment. Checking the information helps avoid issues like booking errors or incorrect travel dates and times.
Pack light for your trip to Sapa by train
Given the long journey and potentially challenging terrain, pack light to make your travel easier. However, Sapa can get cold at night, so include warm clothing in your luggage to stay comfortable. Also, bring a small bag with essential personal items for easy access during the trip.
Eating on the train to Sapa
Trains often offer pre-prepared food such as instant noodles and porridge, but these options can be expensive and might not suit your taste. Consider bringing your own snacks or light meals. You can also buy food at some train stops along the way.
Getting from Lao Cai station to Sapa
The distance from Lao Cai Station to Sapa is about 35 km, which takes around 1 hour to travel. You can choose from several transportation options:
- Taxi: Approximately 400,000 VND – 550,000 VND per vehicle
- Tourist bus: About 50,000 – 60,000 VND per passenger
- Local Bus: 10,000 VND per passenger
With this article, we hope passengers have gained useful information about Sapa train tickets for their upcoming journey. Don’t forget to use the train ticket booking feature on your banking apps to check ticket prices, train schedules, and catch attractive deals and promotions. Viet Transfers wishes you a smooth and safe trip!
See more: 10 Tips for Traveling on Sleeper Trains in Vietnam