Sapa Airport: Must-Know Info for Your Next Adventure

If you’re planning a trip to the stunning town of Sapa, Vietnam, you might be wondering about Sapa airport. Here’s the scoop: Sapa itself doesn’t have an airport. Instead, travelers typically fly into nearby airports and then travel by road to reach Sapa. This guide will help you navigate the best routes and provide essential details for your journey, making your trip to this beautiful destination as smooth as possible.

Can you fly into Sapa Vietnam?

You can’t fly directly into Sapa just yet because there isn’t a Sapa airport in the town right now. However, a new Sapa airport is on the way and should be finished in the coming years! For now, travelers can fly into Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, which is about 320 kilometers away. From there, you can easily take a bus or car to reach the beautiful Sapa region.

Sapa’s Nearest Airport – Noi Bai International Airport

Noi Bai International Airport, located about 35 kilometers northeast of downtown Hanoi, is the closest airport to Sapa, Vietnam. The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic flights, which handles 15 million passengers yearly, and Terminal 2 for international flights, serving 10 million with room to grow. With its excellent location and modern facilities, Noi Bai International Airport is a key gateway for travelers heading to Northern Vietnam.

If you want to know more details about the closest airport to Sapa Vietnam, you can read our article here!

How to get from Noi Bai International Airport to Sapa?

Wondering how to get from Noi Bai International Airport to Sapa? Here’s a simple guide to help you travel smoothly from Hanoi’s airport to the stunning town of Sapa.

By sleeper bus

Getting from Noi Bai International Airport to Sapa is quite easy, and many travelers opt for the sleeper bus! It’s a comfortable choice, allowing you to relax on your way to this beautiful destination. The journey takes about 6 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to catch up on some sleep before you explore Sapa. We have already compiled a list of famous sleeper buses for you to choose from, which offer the utmost service for you!

By taxi

After landing at the airport, you can easily find taxis waiting outside the arrivals area. The journey to Sapa will take approximately 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The scenic landscape along the way makes for a pleasant ride, and you’ll have the flexibility to stop and enjoy the stunning views as you head towards Sapa.

By Limousine

If you’re planning to go from Noi Bai International Airport to Sapa, an Eco limousine is a great choice. These 9-seat limousine buses are actually upgraded 16-seat vans, offering spacious and luxurious seats with amenities like mineral water, snacks, WiFi, and USB charging ports. It’s a comfortable way to travel for about $16. 

By Train

Traveling from Noi Bai International Airport to Sapa by train is a wonderful way to see Vietnam’s stunning countryside! You’ll start by taking a taxi or shuttle bus to Hanoi’s train station, which only takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Once there, you can catch an overnight train to Lao Cai, the closest station to Sapa. Here are some reliable train with utmost service you can refer to: 

• VIC Sapa Train: The VIC Sapa Train offers a comfortable ride with modern amenities and scenic views, making your journey to Sapa both relaxing and enjoyable.
• Family Express Train: Designed for families, the Family Express Train features spacious seating and friendly services, ensuring a pleasant and convenient trip to Sapa for everyone.
• Chapa Express Train: The Chapa Express Train provides a smooth and cozy ride to Sapa with comfortable seats and excellent service, perfect for a comfortable journey.
• Sapaly Express Train: The Sapaly Express Train combines luxury and comfort with plush seats and top-notch amenities, making it a great choice for a relaxing trip to Sapa.

By Private Car

Another option to get from Noi Bai International Airport to Sapa is a private car, which is a great choice for a comfortable and convenient journey. You can easily book a private car in advance or arrange one upon arrival at the airport. The drive takes about 5 to 6 hours, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way while traveling at your own pace!

Essential Guidance for Your First Trip to Sapa

Planning your first trip to Sapa? Here are some essential tips to help you make the most of this beautiful destination and create unforgettable memories!

• Plan Your Itinerary: Organize your schedule and book accommodation early, especially if flying into a nearby airport to Sapa.
• Check Flight Schedules: Make sure to note your flight times and confirm your accommodations in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
• Rent a Motorbike: Explore Sapa at your own pace by renting a motorbike; ensure you have a valid driving permit.
• Stay Safe: Make sure you have all necessary permits and are familiar with local traffic rules when renting or using transport.
• Enjoy Exploring: Sapa offers beautiful scenery, so take your time to explore through trekking tours and enjoy the adventure with these travel tips.
• Motorbike Rental Costs: Renting a motorbike costs around 150,000 VND per day; check with your hotel or rental shop.
• Use Motorbike Taxis: For convenience, use motorbike taxis to get around Sapa. Always negotiate the fare before starting your ride.

Conclusion

In summary, Sapa doesn’t have a Sapa airport of its own. To get there, you’ll need to fly into nearby airports such as Hanoi, and then take a scenic drive to Sapa. With a bit of planning, the journey is easy, and the stunning landscapes you’ll encounter make it all worthwhile. Enjoy your trip to Sapa and its breathtaking beauty!