Hanoi to SaPa: Luxury Van Transfer in 6h

Introduction: Hanoi to SaPa

Back in April 2023, we spent three weeks exploring Vietnam. The original idea was to cover the whole country, but as we planned, we felt the need to slow down and focus on the north and center. That way, we could actually enjoy each place instead of rushing through it.

Our route started and ended in Hanoi, with an overnight stop there in between Sapa and Ha Long Bay. In total, the trip went like this: Hanoi, Sapa, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay/Lan Ha Bay, Tam Coc (Ninh Binh), Hue, Hoi An, and back to Hanoi.

We also had a little twist — Tina was between 9 and 12 weeks pregnant during the trip, which meant we had to pace ourselves differently, but it didn’t stop us from enjoying it to the fullest.

Sapa was our second stop after Hanoi. It might be a bit of a journey to get there, but for us, it was absolutely worth it. After comparing all the options, we decided to take a luxury van from Hanoi to Sapa for comfort — and we’d choose it again in a heartbeat. If you’re looking for a stress-free way to get to Sapa, this option is one we can genuinely recommend.

Read: Complete North and Central 3-week Vietnam Itinerary 

Where to Stay in Hanoi

It is definitely important to have a good accommodation in Hanoi as the weather can be a bit tricky and wet. That’s why we handpicked those:

• (€) Bella Rosa Hotel & Travel – A cozy spot right in the heart of the Old Quarter, perfect for budget travelers who still want comfort and friendly service.
• (€€) MAY DE VILLE Corner Hotel – Spacious rooms, modern facilities, and just a short stroll from Hoàn Kiếm Lake and Train Street.
• (€€€) Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel – Stylish, elegant, and offering top-notch service with a rooftop pool and bar for those who want to treat themselves.

Here are all your accommodation options in Hanoi

Going from Hanoi to Sapa

The best ways to get from Hanoi to SaPa are:

• By Van: the most comfortable way to go from Hanoi to SaPa: This is the option we chosed. It takes 5-6h to get there. If you want to reserve it, book it here.
• By Bus: On a similar note, you can also book a bus from Hanoi to Sapa. The bus journey takes around 5-6 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. If you want a unique VIP bus, we would recommend this one.
• By Train: This is not the easiest to get from Hanoi to Sapa as there isn’t a train station in SaPa and you need to take the train to Lao Cai. From there a taxi to SaPa which is about 38 kilometers away. The journey from Lao Cai to Sa Pa usually takes around 1-1.5 hours. And the complete train journey takes approximately 8-9 hours. Once you arrive at Lao Cai Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Sa Pa. We wouldn’t recommend this option to get from Hanoi to SaPa.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Review of the van from Hanoi to Sapa

We opted to book our van from Hanoi to SaPa online via A21 Eco SaPa, a local traval agency. The main reason is that their website was well made and everything was clear :

• Departure time: 7:00, 15:00daily
• 5 hours of transfer with 2 breaks on the way
• Relax on recliner soft seats with top-notch services and amenities
• Travel with a professional and experienced driver who will take you to your destination quickly and safely

They also had an itinerary :

• 07:00 – 07:30 (or 15:00 – 15:30): Free pick-up at your hotel in the Old Quarter of Hanoi and transfer to Sapa Express Bus for the departure to Sapa at 7:30
• 09:00 (17:00): Have a rest-stop at Km57 for 30 minutes. Here you can go to the toilet and at 11:30 (19:30) there will be a second stop for 15 minutes at Km237
• 13:00 (21:00): Arrive in Sapa town and the limousine will take the passengers to their accommodation around Sapa town or Eco Sapa bus office for the ones staying outside the town

Booking the trip

Here also, it was super easy to book the van from Hanoi to SaPa, a few days before our trip to SaPa (2 if I am right), we contacted A21 on Whatsapp, they right away answered and told us about availability on the van. After confirming it, we validated the pick-up point in front of our accommodation in old town Hanoi.

We opted for the middle seats which are more expensive but more comfortable. Hopefully Tina will not be too nauseous due to her pregnancy. In terms of price it was:

• Regular (Next to the driver – Max 02) 18 USD
• VIP Seat (Middle Row – Max 04) : 24 USD (Our option)
• Regular (Back seat – Max 03) : 22 USD

From there, we received a link to pay online which was really easy and convenient.

The day before our transfer, we received another message on Whatsapp to remind us of the trip. We also recvied a pickup time, registration plate for the van as well as a map validate the pick-up location.  It was the same on the way back.

What we didn’t know is that we could have just book it online here.

Hanoi to SaPa Step by Step Review

Pick-Up from Hanoi

We woke up around 6h. We already almost had packed our bags, so we just finished them, brushed our teeth and went on to wait the van to Sapa that should pick us up at 6h35.

The van from Hanoi to SaPa arrived around 6h40. We were the first one. We put our bags in the rear and then took our seat. There are 4 seats in the middle. We got the rear row. So far, seats are confortable, have bottle holder, USB…

We then picked up 2 other foreigners and 2 local at another hotel and 3 more locals at another one. We were full by 7h.

We then received a small bag with water, sweet bread and a wet wipe.  We then left Hanoi and it was still raining.

Tip: book your ticket online to be at ease.

First break

At 8h30 we made a first break on our journey from Hanoi to SaPa for about 25min. When we went out of the van, we received a free drink voucher. We got a coffee and a ginger tea. That was the strongest coffee I have ever drunken. We bought some fresh mango for 20 000, had breakfast and then went for toilet. It was super clean and cost 5000 per person, so 10 000 here. Also it was western style toilet, as usual paper in the trash.

I also took a peek at sleeper bus. The one I checked out was quite fancy but it was a bit stuffy in it. I also saw some other that were more basic, older and looked dirtier.

At the station there was also lots of small stalls and even a type of supermarket in the end.

The further we went north, the less rain there was. 

Check our Google Map of Vietnam

Second break

We made another stop on the way from Hanoi to SaPa at 11h37. It was time. It was becoming super stuffy in the van. We left at 12h. Tina asked the driver to turn on the AC, which he did. This second station was more basic and old school. Toilets were 3000 each, so 6,000.

Also USBs weren’t turned on. Guess you also have to ask the driver for it. Unfortunately, its English isn’t that great. But at least the driving is OK.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Arriving in SaPa

We kept on, now the road was going up the mountain. And slowly our journey from Hanoi to SaPa ended. We arrived in Sapa and we were dropped of at the Cathedral a bit before 13h. If your accommodation is within SaPa center, they will drop you there directly but ours was out of town, so the drop of was the cathedral.

Read: Best things to do in SaPa in 4 days.

Final though

After doing two ways with the Luxury Van Transfer from Hanoi to SaPa, we would recommend it. It was in the end comfortable and well organised. Be sure to book it in advance to secure your spot.

Read: Complete North and Central 3-week Vietnam Itinerary 

Where to Stay in SaPa

If you’re planning to visit Sapa, staying a few nights in town will give you time to explore both the main attractions and the quieter trails. Three nights is a good amount — it allows you to rest after your arrival, do at least one full day of trekking, and still have time for other activities like Fansipan Mountain or visiting local markets.

Here are a few options depending on your budget:

• (€) En Hotel Sapa – A cozy and affordable choice right in town, perfect if you just need a comfortable base for your treks.
• (€€) Sapa Rosie House – Charming rooms with a homely feel and beautiful views, offering a more intimate experience.
• (€€€) Laxsik Ecolodge – A high-end stay surrounded by nature, ideal if you want peace, privacy, and stunning landscapes right outside your window.

Here are all your accommodation options in Sapa