Getting to Sa-pa by train, by bus, or on the motorcycle or private car is quite an experience.
By Train: This is the most common night train service operating from the Long Bien or Hanoi train station to Lao Cai Station. The trip duration is about 8-9 hours, followed by a short cab ride or bus journey for another 15 minutes to get you to Sapa town.
By Bus: Local and foreign bus operating companies provide night buses from either My Dinh or Giap Bat bus terminals in Hanoi, with the journey time-traffic permitting-of about 6-7 hours.
By Private Car: This alternative involves renting a private car or shuttle service. It would be the most comfortable option but likely also one of the most expensive. It would take about 4-5 hours by road, depending on traffic.
By Motorcycle: Finally, for the truly adventurous, one can rent a motorbike in Hanoi and enjoy riding on the beautiful scenic road leading to Sapa. This means an uphill drive of about 7-8 hours over winding, yet stunningly beautiful, roads.
The most popular way to get to Sapa from Hanoi is by train, which takes you through the beautiful countryside of northern Vietnam. Take a train from Hanoi Train Station (also known as Tran Quy Cap Station) to Lao Cai, and from there, take a bus or taxi to Sapa, which takes about an hour.
The easiest mode of transportation from Hanoi to Sapa isn't flying, as initially stated, since there are no direct flights connecting these two destinations. Here's a more accurate approach: For travelers seeking the quickest journey by air, flying with Vietnam Airlines (VNA) is indeed an option. Please note that LPA is not located in Sapa but rather serves as a hub for travel within Laos. On another note, if you prefer exploring Vietnam by land and taking in its scenic beauty, booking a train ride via OYO Express or Napam Express can also be considered. These trains depart from Hanoi's railway station and make their way towards Lao Cai station. From there, it's just a short transfer to Sapa town. Both options offer unique experiences: one allowing for swift arrivals via aircraft across countries' borders into neighboring territories; the other providing soothing nighttime trips amidst lush landscapes during daylight hours before reaching your endpoint which sits atop mountainous outskirts.