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Travel GuideChapa Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train: Which One’s Best?
Choosing the right train for your journey to Sapa can make all the difference in your experience. Chapa Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train are two popular options, each offering something special for travelers. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between Chapa Express and VIC Sapa to help you pick the best option for your trip!
Overview of Chapa Express Train
Chapa Express Train is one of the newer trains in Vietnam, starting in April 2013. It officially began running the Hanoi-Sapa-Hanoi route in June 2014. The night train Hanoi to Sapa is super comfy, with new coaches, luxury furnishings, and all the modern amenities you need for a great trip. Each direction has one coach with seven cozy cabins, all with wooden paneling, air conditioning, and reading lights.
Overview of VIC Sapa Train
VIC Sapa Train is one of the most luxurious overnight trains on the Hanoi to Lao Cai route! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Vietnam’s natural beauty while traveling through the night. The cabins of this luxury train Hanoi to Sapa have a cozy, classic Western style with warm wooden interiors, making them feel super comfortable. Each cabin is packed with great features like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and reading lights.
Chapa Express Train vs VIC Sapa: Key Differences
Let’s take a look at the key differences between Chapa Express Train and VIC Sapa, so you can choose the best option for your trip.
Comfort & Amenities Comparison
Both offer comfortable and modern features, but with some key differences. Chapa Express stands out with super-fast, unlimited Wi-Fi, and noise-canceling earplugs imported from the U.S., plus eco-friendly amenity kits. It also provides air conditioning in each cabin, adjustable to your preferred temperature, and power sockets at every bed. A unique perk is the premium lounge system at Lao Cai station, where passengers enjoy services like baggage handling, complimentary showers, and Wi-Fi.
On the other hand, VIC Sapa Train offers a luxurious travel experience with modern cabins that include Wi-Fi, power sockets, reading lights, and separate sound systems for each bed. While both trains provide blankets, pillows, water, and air conditioning, VIC Sapa has a slightly larger capacity (80 passengers), ensuring a comfortable journey for all.
Both trains have great amenities, but Chapa offers a few more extras!
>See more:
- Chapa Express Train: Luxury Travel with Panoramic Landscapes
- VIC Sapa Train Review: Unlock Joyful Travels and Scenic Views!
Pricing
| Chapa Express Train | VIC Sapa Train |
| 4 Berth Deluxe Cabin (price/ticket) $43
2 Berth VIP Cabin (price/cabin) $180 2 Berth Suite Cabin (price/cabin) $195 |
Shared cabin (price/ticket) $44
Private VIP Cabin – Twin Bed (price/cabin) $144 Private VIP Cabin – Double Bed (price/cabin) $154 |
When you compare the prices between Chapa Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train, there are a few differences to note! For example, on the Chapa Express, a 4-berth deluxe cabin costs $43 per ticket. The 2-berth VIP cabin is $180 per cabin, and the 2-berth suite cabin goes for $195 per cabin.
On the other hand, the VIC Sapa Train has some cool options too! A shared cabin is $44 per ticket, while their private VIP cabins are $144 for a twin bed or $154 for a double bed.
So, Chapa Express is a little more expensive for private cabins, but VIC Sapa gives you more choices, with both shared and private rooms. It really depends on what you’re looking for and your budget. Either way, both trains offer a comfy and fun way to get to Sapa!
Punctuality & Schedule
| Way from: | Chapa Express Train | VIC Sapa Train | |
| Hanoi Station to Lao Cai Station | Departure Time | 22:00 | 22:00 |
| Arrival Time | 06:05 | 06:05 | |
| Lao Cai Train Station to Hanoi | Departure Time | 21:30 | 21:30 |
| Arrival Time | 5:35 | 5:35 |
Regarding punctuality and schedules, both Chapa Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train have similar timings. For travel from Hanoi Train Station to Lao Cai Station, both trains leave at 10:00 PM and arrive at 6:05 AM. For the return trip from Lao Cai Station to Hanoi, both trains depart at 9:30 PM and arrive at 5:35 AM.
So, in terms of travel times, they are pretty much the same. Both options give you an overnight journey, which is convenient if you want to save time and start your day in Sapa early. While small delays can happen, these trains generally stick to their schedules, so you can plan accordingly.
Customer Service
In terms of customer service, both Chapa Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train really stand out! Chapa Express gets lots of praise for its super friendly staff. One passenger shared how they lost their phone, and the team helped search through cabins and even the trash to find it!
Plus, the staff is known for being warm and helpful, and passengers love the free snacks and drinks. VIC Sapa Train also gets rave reviews for its customer service. The staff is super nice, even helping with heavy luggage up and down stairs – talk about going the extra mile! One traveler shared a sweet story of how VIC Sapa helped them find a lost milk bottle and even sent it to their hotel the next day.
Both trains clearly care about their passengers, offering those extra little touches that make your trip even better!
Extras
Both Chapa Express vs VIC Sapa Train offer some handy extras to make your trip easier. For transfers between Sapa and Lao Cai Train Station, both trains provide a shared transfer in a 16-seat car for $5, which is an affordable option. If you’d prefer more privacy, you can opt for a private transfer in a 4 to 7-seat car for $30. Both trains also offer hotel pick-up and drop-off, so you don’t have to worry about getting to or from the train station.
Which Train is Best for You?
When choosing between the Chapa Express Train vs the VIC Sapa Train, consider your travel needs:
- For Travelers on a Budget: The VIC Sapa Train is great for those looking for an affordable yet comfortable ride.
- For Luxury Seekers: Opt for the Chapa Express if you want to pamper yourself with top-notch comfort and excellent customer service.
- For Families or Groups: Chapa Express offers more spacious cabins and better amenities, making it a great choice for families traveling together.
- For Solo Travelers: The VIC Sapa Train provides a cozy atmosphere, perfect for solo travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
Booking Your Train Tickets: Chapa Express vs VIC Sapa
Booking your train tickets for Chapa Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train is pretty easy! You can book directly on their websites, through third-party booking platforms, or even at the train station. Chapa Express allows you to choose your cabin and pay online, while VIC Sapa also offers online booking, letting you select from shared or private cabins.
However, if you’re looking for an even easier and more affordable option, head over to our website, Sapa Nomad! We offer simple, fast booking with the best prices around, plus you can pick your preferred train and cabin with just a few clicks. No stress, no hassle – just great deals on your trip to Sapa! 😊 Check it out today and get your tickets in minutes!
Conclusion
Both Chapa Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train are great choices for your trip to Sapa, each with its own awesome features! It all depends on what you’re looking for—comfort, service, or a mix of both. Ready to get started? Head to our website now to book your tickets and enjoy a smooth, stress-free ride to Sapa! We’re here to make your journey as enjoyable as possible. Let’s get you on your way!