Night Train Hanoi to Sapa: Delight in Peaceful Nighttime

The night train from Hanoi to Sapa offers a comfortable overnight journey through Vietnam’s picturesque countryside. Departing in the evening, travelers can relax in sleeper cabins and wake up to scenic views upon arrival in Lao Cai early the next morning. From there, it’s a short transfer to Sapa, where you can explore stunning landscapes and local culture.

Night Train Hanoi to Sapa

Sapa, renowned for its beauty in northern Vietnam, draws tourists year-round. If you haven’t visited yet, consider traveling by tourist train. It’s the oldest mode of transport from Hanoi to Sapa, offering a unique experience of passing through mountains and forests. Take your time to find out more about our train Hanoi to Sapa options for detailed information and plan your journey to soak in the scenic views along the way.

Travel Time To Go from Hanoi to Sapa by Train

The journey night train Hanoi to Sapa takes approximately 6 hours and 33 minutes, making it the fastest option for traveling overland. Trains usually travel without much delay, maintaining a consistent speed, and they only stop briefly at stations. This makes train travel one of the quickest and safest ways to reach Sapa from Hanoi. 

The type of train you choose can impact your travel time significantly. 

• Regular trains typically run at speeds ranging from 40 mph (65 km/h) to 65 mph (105 km/h),
• Intercity trains on shorter routes may go slower than 40 mph. 
• Express trains can travel at speeds up to 100 mph (160 km/h)
• Modern high-speed trains can exceed 250 mph (400 km/h).

Schedule and Price Tickets for the Night Train to Sapa Departing Hanoi

Every day, two fast trains, SP1 and SP3, leave from Hanoi to Lao Cai. It takes about 8 hours to travel from Hanoi Train Station to Lao Cai Train Station. The schedule for these trains can be found below:

• SP1: Leaves at 9:40 PM and arrives at 5:30 AM
• SP3: Leaves at 10:00 PM and arrives at 6:05 AM

The train tickets to Sapa in Vietnam differ based on the type of train you choose, which determines the facilities and services available. For tourist trains, passengers have two options – a shared berth cabin ( $30 – $83) or a private 2-berth cabin ($130 – $225). Moreover, rates can vary depending on the type of cabin:

• A wooden furniture 4-bed cabin: $17 – $22
• Premium 4-bed cabins (Dream, Chapa Train, Sapaly): around $29

6 Best Night Train Brands from Hanoi to Sapa

Traveling by night train from Hanoi to Sapa offers a convenient and scenic journey, and here are the top 6 best night train Hanoi to sapa that ensure a comfortable and memorable experience.

Victoria Express Train

The Victoria Express Train is a luxurious night train Hanoi to Sapa with impeccable service. It has 13 deluxe cabins, a bar, and a restaurant, catering to up to 48 passengers.

Pros	Cons
High-quality, luxurious services with privacy. Separate washbasins and spacious, clean toilets. Private 2-berth cabins: clean, comfy mattress, great view. Onboard staff: smiling, helpful, attentive.	Quite expensive

Lotus Train Vietnam

The Lotus Train Vietnam Express is a top choice for tourist travel in Vietnam, featuring impeccable interior design. Their dedicated and experienced staff are available around the clock to ensure your journey from Hanoi to Hue or Da Nang is enjoyable and hassle-free.

Pros	Cons
Impeccable interior design Dedicated and experienced staff 24/7 customer support is available Comfortable travel experience assured Good amenities onboard	Limited sightseeing opportunities at night Potential noise on the night train Hanoi to Sapa Arrival times may be early morning Additional transport is needed to reach destinations

Orient Express

The Orient Express, which is known as one of the best night train Hanoi to Sapa offers comfortable cabins with AC, clean bathrooms, ample luggage space, and cozy berths.

Pros	Cons
Spacious bathroom for guests in this night train Hanoi to Sapa Positive passenger feedback on comfort Well-trained, helpful staff	Full payment for 2-berth cabin No discount for single-occupancy Orient Express departs SP1 at 21:35. Arrives at 5:45 the next day. Consider possible rush situations.

King Express

The Sapa King Express train has 25 cabins spread across multiple carriages, accommodating nearly 100 passengers. Each cabin includes AC, blankets, cushions, towels, and a private toilet.

Pros	Cons
The company aims to treat guests royally. The staff is known for smiles and helpfulness. Travelers praise clean, spacious cabins.	Runs overnight, limiting scenery views. Sleeping on a moving train may be challenging. Saves time and money benefits.

Family Express Train

The Family Express Train is a popular night train Hanoi to Sapa that travelers use to go to the mountain hamlet in northern Vietnam. This night train Hanoi to Sapa is designed for families and aims to provide a comfortable and convenient method for them to travel together. It departs Hanoi by night and arrives in Lao Cai, the nearest city to Sapa, early in the morning. 

Pros	Cons
Comfortable and convenient for families. Provides convenient night train Hanoi to Sapa between Hanoi-Sapa. Offers options for different cabin types. Allows scenic views during daytime travel by night train Hanoi to Sapa Provides amenities like bedding and dining.	Limited sightseeing opportunities at night. Potential difficulty sleeping on moving trains. Arrival in Lao Cai early morning. An additional shuttle or taxi is needed to Sapa.

Chapa Express Train

Launched in June 2014, the Chapa Express Train offers a stylish and comfortable overnight trip from Hanoi to Lao Cai. It features 14 well-equipped cabins with amenities like air-conditioning, reading lights, cozy beds, and charming Sapa-inspired décor. Travelers can opt for shared Deluxe 4-berth cabins or more private VIP and Suite 2-berth cabins to suit their preferences.

Pros	Cons
Comfortable and convenient for families Provides overnight transportation between Hanoi-Sapa Offers options for different cabin types Allows scenic views during daytime travel Provides amenities like bedding and dining	Limited sightseeing opportunities at night Potential difficulty sleeping on moving trains Arrival in Lao Cai early morning. An additional shuttle or taxi is needed to Sapa

Sapaly Express Train

The Sapaly Express Train, operating as SP3 from Hanoi to Sapa, features comfortable soft sleeper cabins with air conditioning and wooden décor. Travelers can choose between 4-berth soft sleeper cabins or 2-berth VIP cabins for their journey on the night train Hanoi to Sapa.

Pros	Cons
Cabin decor creates a cozy atmosphere. Strong AC for summer comfort on this night train Hanoi to Sapa Hot water is available. Well-trained and attentive staff.	Limited sightseeing opportunities at night. Potential noise on the train. Arrival in Lao Cai early morning. Additional transport is needed to reach Sapa.

Useful Tips for Traveling by night train to Sapa from Hanoi 

Traveling by night train from Hanoi to Sapa can be smooth and enjoyable with these simple and practical tips.

• Book Early: Secure your tickets well in advance, especially for VIP 2-berth cabins, as they tend to sell out quickly.
• Pack Light: Bring only essential items in a small backpack to make your journey more comfortable and manageable.
• Keep Valuables Safe: Store money and important documents in a secure place and consider leaving other valuables at home.
• Choose the Right Gate: Use the Tran Quy Cap street gate at Hanoi train station for boarding trains to Sapa.
• Arrive Early: Arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform and settle in without rushing.
• Arrange Pick-Up at Lao Cai: Upon arriving at Lao Cai train station around 6:00 AM, either take a local bus or pre-arrange a pick-up service with your hotel for a smooth transition to Sapa town.

Conclusion

In summary, traveling by night train Hanoi to Sapa is a practical and pleasurable option. The luxurious accommodations and breathtaking vistas combine to provide an unforgettable trip through the Vietnamese countryside. Traveling alone or with loved ones, this vacation provides an unforgettable approach to discovering Vietnam’s natural splendor. So board and get set for a once-in-a-lifetime journey!

FAQs

What is the Sapa overnight train tour?

Sapa is the gateway to Vietnam’s northern highlands and the starting point for treks to the hill tribe villages. On this tour, travel from Hanoi by overnight train, ensuring that no time is wasted. During your stay, enjoy three guided treks; visit villages belonging to the Black H’mong, Dzay, and Red Dzao people.

Which train should I take from Hanoi to Sapa?

For the journey from Hanoi to Sapa (Lao Cai Railway Station), choose the Victoria Express or Laman Express trains. They offer sleeper cabins with options like 4-berth (Superior) or 2-berth (Deluxe).

What is the most luxurious train from Hanoi to Sapa?

The Vic Sapa Train is a luxurious and modern option for traveling from Hanoi to Sapa. It offers comfortable seating and a stylish experience, making your journey to the beautiful Sapa region enjoyable and memorable.