[LATEST] Step-by-step guide on traveling to Sapa by train

Why opt for traveling to Sapa by train?

While there are numerous means to reach Sapa, what makes traveling to Sapa by train the preferred choice? The following reasons will undoubtedly convince you that traveling by train is indeed a wise decision!

Trains ensure absolute safety for travelers. The journey to Sapa traverses the high mountains of the Northwest. This winding, high, and narrow path becomes less daunting when you're inside the train carriages. Just relax in your seat and relish the feeling of conquering Sapa. Safety concerns are taken care of, leaving you worry-free.

Trains - one of the popular means to reach Sapa

The biggest advantage of traveling to Sapa by train is the opportunity to marvel at the mountainous cloudscape. The natural scenery of the Northwest is breathtaking, especially when enjoyed through the train's windows.

Opting for the train is also an effective way to maintain optimal health for the upcoming joyful days. You'll have time to rest and won't feel overly tired during the journey.

Another undeniable benefit is the super-saving transportation cost. A mode of transport that is both safe and offers you the chance to admire the landscape at an unbelievably low cost is something you can't miss out on.

How to buy train tickets to Sapa?

Do you want to travel to Sapa during peak times like holidays or long vacations? Mytour advises you to purchase train tickets about 1 to 2 months in advance. Buying early not only gives you time to prepare for your trip but also helps you snag cheap and super-saving tickets. If you're traveling with a large group, booking early will ensure you get the desired seats.

You can buy tickets directly from Hanoi station or from the nearest station to your location if there's a route to Sapa. For trains departing from Hanoi station, they usually start in the evening and take about 8 hours to reach Sapa. During the journey, the train will make stops at several stations before reaching the final station at Lao Cai. It's advisable to choose a train with fully-equipped sleeping berths to ensure your health and well-being.

Sapa Train Route (@harikanguyen)

If you want to purchase train tickets to Sapa, you can also book online. This method is quite simple, just visit the official website of Vietnam Railways. Navigate to the ticket booking section and fill in all the necessary information such as destination, departure point, round trip, departure date, return date, and personal details. You can book for the whole team if traveling in a group. With just a few clicks, you can have the train ticket in your hand without having to go to the station to purchase.

>> Check out the comprehensive Sapa travel guide from A-Z.

Train ticket prices to Sapa

Typically, people travel to Sapa by train from Hanoi, known as the Hanoi to Sapa train journey. In reality, it departs from Hanoi station and stops at Lao Cai station. Then, you'll need about 30 minutes by car or bus to reach Sapa.

Tickets from Hanoi station to Lao Cai station have various prices ranging from 130,000 VND for hard seats to about 450,000 VND for sleeping berths on regular trains. Meanwhile, prices range from 500,000 VND to 1,400,000 VND for sleeping berths on tourist trains.

If you want to fully enjoy a complete travel experience, it's advisable to choose the second type of ticket. Although the price difference is significant, you'll be provided with fully equipped amenities in your seat. These include bedding, TV, air conditioning, and complimentary essentials like cold towels, drinks, and snacks. Considering the facilities and the arrangement of the sleeping berths, the amount you spend is entirely reasonable, similar to a hotel room.

For more details, you can refer to the train ticket prices to Sapa in the table below:

How long does it take to go to Sapa by train?

To prepare well for the trip to Sapa, you need to know another crucial piece of information. That is how long does it take to go to Sapa by train? From Tran Quy Cap Station - Hanoi to Lao Cai Station, it takes about 7 to 8 hours. Trains usually depart in the evening around 21 - 22h and arrive in the early morning.

The arrival time may vary depending on the weather and favorable conditions may lead to an earlier arrival than scheduled.

Traveling to Sapa by train

>> Explore more popular Sapa tours.

Should you choose a seat or a berth?

Whether your Sapa trip is short or long, it's essential to have the most comfortable mindset to fully enjoy it. The transportation process significantly affects this, so choosing the right seat or berth is crucial.

Soft seats provide comfortable and reasonably priced options. However, if you have the financial means and seek an authentic travel experience, it's advisable to choose a berth. Equipped with full amenities, it offers the most comfortable feeling.

However, berths often sell out quickly. Therefore, one of the travel experiences in Sapa is to book tickets early to ensure availability and have the most complete itinerary.

Luxury berths on trains to Sapa

Things to note when traveling to Sapa by train

- One of the tips when traveling to Sapa by train is to pay attention to the departure times. Most trains depart from Trần Quý Cáp Station at night, around 9 to 10 PM. Therefore, you should arrive at the station 30 to 60 minutes early to prepare your luggage carefully and not miss the train.

- From Hanoi Station, you can only reach Lào Cai Station, the final stop. You should mentally prepare to get off the train and then travel to Sapa by bus or car, which takes about 30 minutes.

- During the preparation process before your trip, you should pay attention to ticket booking. Understand the ticket class and type to avoid confusion when boarding. Also, familiarize yourself with the services included in your ticket class to avoid the inconvenience of switching from a premium ticket to a regular one. This can cause many complications during preparation.

- You should also pay attention to another detail, which is the age corresponding to the ticket type. This is especially important when traveling with family. Ticket sale regulations based on age are as follows: children under 6 years old travel for free, children from 6 to 10 years old receive a 25% discount on ticket price, and children 10 years old and above are charged the same fare as adults.

Here is the most detailed guide on how to travel to Sapa by train that Mytour wants to provide you. We hope this article will help you prepare thoroughly to enjoy the most enjoyable vacation in the romantic Northwest mountains with charming Sapa!

And don't forget to book the best Sapa hotels or cost-saving Sapa travel combos at Mytour for the perfect trip!

Admin Mytour

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