How long is the train from Hanoi to Sapa?

When planning a trip to the misty peaks of Northern Vietnam, the most common question travelers ask is: how long from Hanoi to Sapa by train? While taking a bus via the new expressway is faster (often under 6 hours), the overnight sleeper train remains the preferred choice for safety, comfort, and the romance of rail travel. However, simply looking at the train schedule is misleading.

The journey involves more than just the time on the tracks; it requires a transfer from the valley station in Lao Cai up to the mountain town of Sapa. As the official strategic partner of Vietnam Railways (VNR), Vexere brings you a transparent, real-time breakdown of the exact travel duration, covering both the rail journey and the shuttle transfer, so you know exactly what to expect.

The Timeline: Train from Hanoi to Sapa How Long?

To accurately answer how long the train journey from Hanoi to Sapa takes, we must look beyond just the railway timetable. Unlike a sleeper bus that drives directly into town, the train cannot climb the steep gradients up to Sapa itself. Consequently, every train trip is actually a two-leg journey split into distinct parts: the overnight rail journey to the border city of Lao Cai, followed by a scenic road transfer up the mountain pass.

Leg 1: The Sleeper Train (Hanoi to Lao Cai)

Duration: ~8 Hours
Crucial Logistics: The journey begins at Hanoi Railway Station B (Tran Quy Cap Street), not the main entrance on Le Duan Street. This is a separate terminal specifically for northbound night trains. If you arrive at the main gate, you will need to take a taxi or walk around the block to the back entrance. The rail journey concludes at Lao Cai Station, a border city roughly 294km away from the capital.

Train Code	Departs Hanoi	Arrives Lao Cai	Duration
SP7	21:35	05:30	7h 55m
SP3	22:40	06:25	7h 45m

Leg 2: The Transfer (Lao Cai to Sapa)

Duration: ~1 Hour 15 Mins
The “Hidden” Leg: This is the crucial final step that many first-time travelers overlook. The railway line ends at Lao Cai City (elevation ~100m), but Sapa is perched high in the mountains (elevation ~1,500m). To bridge this gap, you must travel 35km (22 miles) up the winding Highway QL4D. The road is scenic but steep, often shrouded in mist.

Transfer Options:

• Shuttle Bus: The most popular option. Minibuses wait right outside the station exit. Prices range from 50,000 to 100,000 VND ($2–$4 USD).
• Public Bus (Route #01): The cheapest option, costing around 30,000 VND ($1.20 USD). It departs from the Lao Cai central square but can be crowded with locals.
• Taxi / Private Car: The fastest option (45 mins). Expect to pay 400,000 – 500,000 VND ($16–$20 USD). This is highly recommended if you are traveling in a group or have heavy luggage.

Sleeper Train Hanoi to Sapa: The Experience

Many visitors ask about the duration because they want to know if they can get a full night’s sleep. The answer is yes, but with a few caveats.

The timing works well for a solid night’s rest. Most trains depart late in the evening (between 9:30 PM and 10:00 PM) and arrive around 6:00 AM. This schedule means you can sleep through the journey and wake up fresh right as the sun rises over the mountains near the Chinese border.

However, be aware that Vietnam uses a narrow-gauge railway system. The ride can be bumpy and noisy, with distinct steel-on-steel sounds and occasional jolts. While the gentle rocking motion lulls many travelers to sleep, light sleepers are strongly advised to pack quality earplugs and an eye mask.

The route is served by Vietnam Railways trains (SP1/SP3) which pull both standard carriages and private “Tourist Carriages” (like Chapa Express, Sapaly, or Vic Sapa).

• Soft Sleeper Cabins: 4-berth lockable cabins with mattresses, linens, and AC.
• Amenities: 220V power outlets and reading lights.
• Hygiene: Western-style toilets and washbasins at the end of the carriage.

Bus vs. Train: Is the Extra Time Worth It?

If you are wondering how long is the train from Hanoi to Sapa compared to the bus, here is the honest trade-off:

• Bus (Expressway): 5.5 to 6 hours. Direct to Sapa Town.
• Train (Rail + Road): 9.5 hours total. Requires a transfer in Lao Cai.

So, Why Choose the Slower Train? Despite the longer travel time, the train remains the top choice for many travelers in 2025 for three specific reasons:

1. Real Sleep Quality: On a bus, you are strapped into a reclining seat (or a plastic “cabin”) while navigating winding mountain roads. On the train, you lie on a real mattress in a flat berth. You can stand up, walk to the dining car, or stretch your legs—something impossible on a bus.
2. Safety First: The final hour of the drive to Sapa involves steep, foggy mountain passes. While experienced bus drivers handle this daily, many tourists feel safer traversing these mountains by rail, especially during the rainy season.
3. The “Vibe”: There is a unique romance to the rhythm of the train rattling through the dark countryside that a highway bus simply cannot match. It turns the travel into an experience rather than just a commute.

Ticket Prices: How Much is Train from Hanoi to Sapa?

Prices vary significantly depending on whether you choose the standard national carriages (VNR) or the private “Tourist Carriages” (like Chapa Express, Sapaly, or Vic Sapa) that are attached to the same train but offer a hotel-like experience.

• Standard VNR (Budget):
  • Soft Seat (AC): From 227,000 VND (~$10 USD). Note: Not recommended for overnight travel unless you are on a strict budget.
  • Standard Sleeper (4-berth): From 430,000 – 550,000 VND (~$17–$22 USD). Includes clean bedding and AC, perfect for most backpackers.
• Tourist Carriages (Comfort/Luxury):
  • Deluxe Sleeper (4-berth): From 900,000 – 1,100,000 VND (~$36–$44 USD). Features wood-paneled cabins, better mattresses, and complimentary snacks/water.
  • VIP Private Cabin (2-berth): From 3,500,000 – 4,000,000 VND (~$140–$160 USD) per cabin. Note: Ideal for couples wanting total privacy.

How to Book Train From Hanoi to Sapa

Knowing how to get from Hanoi to Sapa by train is only the first step. The real challenge often lies in the booking process itself. International travelers frequently encounter frustration with the official railway website, where foreign credit cards are often declined without explanation, or the interface confusingly switches languages during checkout.

The Seamless Solution: Book with Confidence on Vexere
As the official strategic partner of Vietnam Railways, Vexere eliminates these logistical headaches, ensuring your trip starts smoothly before you even pack your bags.

Why Smart Travelers Choose Vexere:

1. Guaranteed Payment Success: Forget the “Transaction Failed” errors. We fully support all major international cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex) and digital wallets, ensuring your booking is confirmed instantly and securely.
2. Visual Seat Selection: Don’t book blindly. Our interactive map lets you see the real-time carriage layout.
   • Traveling with kids? Select a bottom bunk for safety and easy access.
   • Want privacy? Book a whole 4-berth cabin for your group to enjoy a private space.
3. Official E-Tickets (Zero Printing): Skip the chaotic queues at the station. Your official QR code ticket is delivered directly to your email and SMS. simply scan it on your phone at the gate to board.
4. Complete Journey Planning: Solve the “Lao Cai to Sapa” transfer problem in one click. Our system allows you to book your Train + Shuttle Bus together, ensuring a driver is ready and waiting for you when the train rolls into Lao Cai station.

So, how long is the train from Hanoi to Sapa really? While the rails take 8 hours, you should plan for a 9-hour adventure that prioritizes safety, comfort, and a good night’s sleep over pure speed.

If you are a solo backpacker in a rush, the express bus might be your best bet. But for families, couples, or anyone wanting to wake up refreshed to the sight of mist-covered mountains, the sleeper train remains the gold standard. It transforms a simple transit into a memorable part of your Vietnam itinerary.

Expert Tip: This is one of Vietnam’s most popular routes. Weekend berths often sell out weeks in advance, so we recommend booking at least 14 days early to secure your preferred cabin.

Ready to wake up to the view of rice terraces? Book your Hanoi – Sapa train tickets securely on Vexere today to get the best deals and guaranteed seats!