King Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train: The Ultimate Train Adventure

Traveling to Sapa? You’ve got some awesome train options to choose from, like the King Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train! Both give you a chance to enjoy Vietnam’s stunning scenery in their own way. Let’s dive in and check out what makes each one special, so you can pick the best train for your adventure to this beautiful place! It’s going to be fun!

A Detailed Look at King Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train

King Express Train is perfect for those wanting to explore Vietnam’s beautiful northern mountains. Besides, the train’s friendly staff and inviting atmosphere make you feel like royalty, living up to their motto, “Serving you as serving the King and Queen on board.” The interior, with its relaxing yellow tones, creates a cozy space for a smooth and comfortable ride.

The VIC Sapa Train, launched in November 2022, is the newest and most luxurious way to travel between Hanoi and Sapa! It’s super comfy and gives you the chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. With cozy interiors and top-notch service, the VIC Sapa Train makes your trip unforgettable. It’s definitely a must-try for anyone heading to Sapa!

A Side-By-Side Comparison of King Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the King Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train to help you choose the best option for your journey to Sapa.

Route and Schedule

Way from:		King Express Train	VIC Sapa Train
Hanoi Station to Lao Cai Station	Departure Time	22:40	22:00
	Arrival Time	06:05	06:05
Lao Cai Train Station to Hanoi	Departure Time	12:05, 21:30	21:30
	Arrival Time	20:00, 5:35	5:35

*Please note, this is just an estimated time. The actual time can change because of things like the train schedule, traffic, weather, and other problems. So, make sure to arrive 50 -60 minutes before the train leaves to check in. At this time, your online ticket will be changed to a paper ticket.

The King Express Train departs from Hanoi Station to Lao Cai Station at 22:40, while the VIC Sapa Train leaves a bit earlier at 22:00. This means that if you’re choosing the King Express, you’ll have a later departure time, while the VIC Sapa Train offers an earlier option. Both trains depart at night, giving passengers a chance to sleep during the journey.

The King Express Train offers two departure times from Lao Cai to Hanoi Station, at 12:05 and 21:30, giving passengers more flexibility. On the other hand, the VIC Sapa Train only departs at 21:30. So, if you prefer a daytime option, King Express is the better choice, while VIC Sapa provides a single evening departure. Both trains travel to Hanoi in the evening.

Pricing and Value

King Express Train	VIC Sapa Train
4 Berth Deluxe Cabin (price/ticket) $48 Private VIP Cabin – Twin Bed (price/ticket) $180 Private VIP Cabin – Double Bed (price/ticket) $200	Shared cabin (price/ticket) $55 Private VIP Cabin – Twin Bed (price/ticket) $195 Private VIP Cabin – Double Bed (price/ticket) $210

Note: The price is set when it’s published, but it might change during holidays. So, make sure to check before you book your tickets!

When comparing the prices of King Express and VIC Sapa trains, King Express is generally more affordable. For a 4-berth deluxe cabin, King Express charges $48 per ticket, while VIC Sapa’s shared cabin costs $55. 

For private VIP cabins, King Express offers a twin bed cabin for $180 and a double bed cabin for $200. In comparison, VIC Sapa’s private VIP twin bed cabin is priced at $195, and the double bed cabin costs $210. While both trains offer similar options, King Express provides lower prices for shared and VIP cabins, making it a more budget-friendly choice, especially for those looking for a slightly cheaper option.

*Transfer

Transfer to Sapa Town, or Lao Cai Train Station	King Express Train	VIC Sapa Train
Shared Transfer (16 sears car)	$5	$5
Private Transfer (4-7 seats car)	$30	$30

Both the King Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train offer transfers to Ha Noi or Lao Cai stations. You can choose a shared 16-seat car for $5 or a private 4-7 seat car for $30 for more privacy.

Amenities between King Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train

On the King Express, you’ll find comfortable air-conditioned cabins with soft berths, blankets, cushions, and refreshing drinks like water, coffee, tea, soft drinks, and even beer! You also get wifi, charging points, earplugs, and individual reading lights. 

The VIC Sapa Train takes luxury a step further with its modern, spacious cabins and features like wifi, power sockets, and separate sound systems for each bed. The VIC Sapa Train is designed for up to 80 passengers, offering a more spacious and relaxing journey. 

Both trains have air-conditioning, blankets, pillows, and toilets, making either a comfortable choice for traveling between Hanoi and Sapa.

What Customers Say about King Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train

Both the King Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train get great feedback from travelers, each for their own reasons! 

King Express Train is loved for its clean and comfy cabins, friendly staff, and smooth, timely service. People enjoy the VIP berths with nice extras like fruits, water, and the ability to make coffee. The shared toilets are kept clean, and the private transfer to your hotel is a nice bonus, even though the driver might not speak much English.

Meanwhile, VIC Sapa Train really shines with its top-notch customer service. Passengers rave about the super friendly staff who help with luggage and make sure you’re comfortable from start to finish. The waiting lounge with tea and coffee is a nice touch, and the transfer from Lao Cai to Sapa Hotels is super smooth. They even go above and beyond, like returning lost items! Both trains are great, but VIC Sapa really stands out for its service!

Which Train Is Suitable For You? King Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly and flexible option, the King Express Train is a great choice. With lower prices for shared and VIP cabins, as well as more departure times, it offers good value for those who want to save money while still having flexibility in their travel plans.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more modern and upgraded experience, the VIC Sapa Train might be the better fit. Although it’s slightly more expensive, it offers a more contemporary feel and a comfortable ride, making it ideal for travelers who value modern amenities over lower costs. Ultimately, it depends on whether you prioritize affordability or a more premium, modern experience.

Conclusion

To sum it up, both the King Express Train vs VIC Sapa Train offer great trips to Sapa! If you’re all about luxury and extra comfort, the VIC Sapa is your best bet. But if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly with solid service, the King Express Train is a fantastic choice. In the end, it’s all about what fits your style and what kind of experience you want on your way to Sapa! Enjoy the ride!