how to get to sapa from hanoi train, How long does it take to travel from Hanoi to Sapa by train?

How to Get to Sapa from Hanoi by Train

It takes four hours to get from Sapa to Halong Bay. It is necessary to book a train from Halong Bay to Hanoi. When you arrive in Sapa, you will transfer to a flight, bus or take local transportation. 60 buses and minibuses leave from Sapa every day, offering tourists the opportunity to visit many places of interest - a great advantage. The cost of transportation varies depending on local transportation and service availability. Most bus or car fares are around 100,000-200,000 VND (about 4.50-9 USD).

To get to Sapa from Hanoi by train, you can follow these steps:

1. **Reach Hanoi Railway Station (Ga Hà Nội):** The main railway station in Hanoi is located at 120 Lê Duẩn Street. You can reach there by taxi, bus, or any other means of local transportation.

2. **Purchase a Train Ticket:**
   - **Online Booking:** You can book your tickets online through various travel websites or the official website of Vietnam Railways. This is often more convenient as you can choose your seats and ensure availability.
   - **At the Station:** You can also buy tickets directly at the Hanoi Railway Station. It's advisable to do this in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as trains can fill up quickly.

3. **Train Options:**
   - **Regular Trains:** These are operated by Vietnam Railways and offer different classes such as hard seat, soft seat, hard sleeper, and soft sleeper. The journey takes around 7-8 hours.
   - **Private Trains:** Some private companies like Victoria Express and Sapaly offer luxury train services with higher comfort levels. These trains usually have fewer stops and better amenities but are more expensive.

4. **Board the Train:**
   - Arrive at the Hanoi Railway Station at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for boarding and finding your seat or berth.
   - Ensure you have your ticket and any necessary identification documents.

5. **Arrival in Lao Cai:**
   - The train will take you to Lao Cai, which is the nearest major station to Sapa. The journey typically takes about 7-8 hours.
   - Upon arrival at Lao Cai, you will need to transfer to Sapa. The distance between Lao Cai and Sapa is about 38 km (24 miles).

6. **Transfer to Sapa:**
   - **Bus/Shuttle:** There are regular shuttle buses and minibuses that run from Lao Cai to Sapa. The journey takes approximately 1 hour. You can find these buses outside the Lao Cai train station.
   - **Taxi/Private Car:** You can also hire a taxi or a private car for a more comfortable and direct transfer. This option is more expensive but offers greater convenience.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a scenic and relatively comfortable journey from Hanoi to Sapa.