SAPA to HOI AN — Train, Bus, Taxi, Flight? ☀️
From northern to central Vietnam — from Sapa to Hoi An and Da Nang.
- Hoi An, located approximately 25 km from Da Nang in Quang Nam province, stands as a quaint ancient town nestled along the Thu Bon river. Da Nang, the bustling metropolis of central Vietnam, draws tourists from across the globe, many of whom also venture to explore the charms of Hoi An. Since the 16th century, Hoi An has served as a pivotal seaport, influencing the entire mainland Southeast Asia region. Known to Europeans during its zenith in the 16th-17th century as Faifo, the city’s architectural landscape reflects a fusion of various styles owing to the settlement of foreign merchants. T
- The historic streets of Hoi An are adorned with houses showcasing a blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Portuguese architectural elements. Many of these structures, once owned by merchants, still serve as residences for their descendants. Characterized by wooden constructions embellished with intricate carvings and inlays, the city’s historic core remains remarkably preserved and designated as a protected monument. Recognized for its unique heritage and conservation efforts, Hoi An was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999. The Thu Bon river offers tourists scenic boat trips and stands as the primary waterway of the region.
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- Beyond its historical allure, Hoi An beckons visitors with its captivating ambiance, culinary delights, and nearby beaches. Among the notable attractions in proximity is the renowned Ba Na Hills and its iconic Golden Bridge, a 150-meter-long pedestrian bridge nestled within the Bà Nà Hills resort near Da Nang. Serving as both a functional pathway and a picturesque vista point, the Golden Bridge adds to the region’s allure as a tourist destination.
- Traveling to Hoi An and Da Nang from northern Vietnam, particularly Sapa, offers several options, albeit time-consuming. Travelers can opt for bus and train combinations, bus journeys, or a combination of bus and plane via Hanoi. Of these, the most expeditious route involves traveling to Hanoi and catching a direct flight to Da Nang Airport, situated approximately 30 km from Hoi An. It’s advisable to carefully review transportation instructions to central Vietnam to ensure a smooth journey.
- From Hoi An you can travel to southern Vietna, e.g. to Mui Ne in Phan Thiet.
From Sapa to Hoi An + Da Nang you can travel by train, bus or plane via Hanoi.
- The distance from Sapa in Lao Cai province to Hoi An and Da Nang in Quang Nam province spans approximately 1100 km over land. Optimal, expedient, and comfortable transportation from Sapa to Hoi An entails boarding a bus to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi, followed by a direct flight to Da Nang Airport. This journey typically takes around 10 hours in total. The bus ride from Sapa to Noi Bai Airport lasts about 5 hours, with the subsequent direct flight from Noi Bai Airport to Da Nang taking approximately 1.5 hours, and an additional hour’s journey from Da Nang Airport to Hoi An by bus or taxi. The cost of this bus-and-flight option from Sapa to Hoi An via Noi Bai Airport and Da Nang Airport ranges from $60 to $120, factoring in the availability of low-cost flights from Hanoi to Da Nang. Da Nang Airport conveniently sits a mere 5 km from the city center, with transportation options including buses and private minivans shuttling passengers to Hoi An’s ancient town.
- Alternatively, travelers can embark on a bus-and-train route via Lao Cai Railway Station and Hanoi Railway Station. This option encompasses four stages: a bus or taxi ride from Sapa to Lao Cai Railway Station, followed by train journeys from Lao Cai to Hanoi and from Hanoi to Da Nang, concluding with a bus or taxi transfer from Da Nang to Hoi An. The entirety of this bus-and-train route from Sapa to Hoi An via Lao Cai takes approximately 30 hours, including a one-hour bus journey from Sapa to Lao Cai, an eight-hour train ride from Lao Cai to Hanoi, a 17-hour train journey from Hanoi to Da Nang, and another hour’s ride by bus from Da Nang to Hoi An. Travelers can select from sleeper regular trains or private luxury tourist trains for the rail segments of this route. Costs for this journey range from $30 to $150 per person, contingent upon the chosen train service, with the more economical options typically provided by Vietnam Railways’ regular trains.
- The third and final option for reaching Hoi An and Da Nang from Sapa involves traveling by bus or minivan via Hanoi. This route generally takes between 24 and 30 hours, with approximately 6 hours spent traveling from Sapa to Hanoi and another 16 to 18 hours from Hanoi to Da Nang. Total expenses typically amount to $25 to $40 per person, offering the most budget-friendly transport option from Sapa to Hoi An. However, this method may lack in comfort due to the extended duration spent on the bus. Travelers can choose from a variety of modern buses or private minivans for the journey from Sapa to Hanoi, followed by sleeper tourist buses from Hanoi to Da Nang or Hoi An.
How do I get from Sapa to Hoi An and Da Nang?
1. BUS + FLIGHT from Sapa to Hoi An (Da Nang)
A) Sapa to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi
Your journey begins with a scenic ride from Sapa to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi. You have the choice of traveling by bus, van, or taxi, offering flexibility to suit your preferences and budget. The journey typically spans around 5 hours, allowing you to soak in the beauty of Vietnam’s countryside as you make your way to the bustling capital.
Several reputable bus companies such as Inter Bus Lines and Grouptour operate services from Sapa to Noi Bai Airport, ensuring comfort and reliability throughout your trip. With ticket prices ranging from $11 to $18 per person, this mode of transport offers an affordable yet comfortable option for travelers.
B) Flight from Hanoi to Da Nang
Upon reaching Noi Bai Airport, it’s time to hop on a flight to Da Nang, the gateway to Hoi An. With direct flights available from a variety of airlines including VietJet Air, Pacific Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, and Bamboo Airways, you can conveniently reach your destination in approximately 1.5 hours.
Not only does flying offer speed and efficiency, but it also provides breathtaking aerial views of Vietnam’s diverse landscapes. With ticket prices ranging from $35 to $100 per person for a one-way journey, flying from Hanoi to Da Nang proves to be the quickest and most convenient option for travelers seeking to maximize their time.
C) Da Nang Airport to Hoi An
Upon landing at Da Nang Airport, the final leg of your journey involves a short but scenic ride to Hoi An. Opt for a bus or private minivan/taxi to reach your destination in approximately 1 hour. Companies such as Hoi An Express and April Adventure offer reliable transportation services, ensuring a smooth transition from the airport to the enchanting streets of Hoi An.
With ticket prices ranging from $5 to $8 per person, traveling from Da Nang Airport to Hoi An is not only affordable but also provides an opportunity to witness the beauty of Vietnam’s coastal landscapes.
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2. BUS + TRAIN from Sapa to Hoi An (via Lao Cai, Hanoi and Da Nang)
A) Sapa to Lao Cai Railway Station
Begin your journey by traveling from Sapa to Lao Cai Railway Station. You have the option of taking a local public bus or a taxi for convenience. The bus ride typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, offering a budget-friendly option with tickets priced at approximately $1.30 per person. Alternatively, private taxis or minivans are available at a higher cost ranging from $10 to $35.
B) Train from Lao Cai to Hanoi
Once you’ve reached Lao Cai Railway Station, board a train to Hanoi. You can choose between regular or tourist trains, with travel time averaging about 8 hours. Ticket prices vary depending on the type of accommodation, ranging from $7 to $100 per person. Luxurious options such as Orient Express, King Express, Damitrans, Lotus Train or Laman Express and others provide a premium experience for travelers.
C) Train from Hanoi to Da Nang
From Hanoi, continue your journey to Da Nang by train. Traveling by sleeper train offers a comfortable option, albeit a longer journey spanning approximately 17 hours. Ticket prices range from $18 to $135 per person, providing various accommodation choices to suit your preferences.
D) Bus/Taxi from Da Nang to Hoi An
Upon arriving in Da Nang, the final leg of your journey involves a short ride to Hoi An. Opt for a bus or private minivan/taxi for a convenient one-hour journey. Several reputable bus companies operate services to Hoi An, with ticket prices ranging from $5 to $10 per person.
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2. Bus from Sapa to Hoi An and Da Nang (via Hanoi)
A) Bus from Sapa to Hanoi:
Traveling from the scenic town of Sapa to the vibrant capital city of Hanoi is made easy with a variety of tourist buses or minivans. The journey typically spans around 5 to 7 hours, allowing you to relax and enjoy the picturesque views along the way.
Several reputable bus companies operate services between Sapa and Hanoi, including Dragon Express, Hason Haivan, and Sapa Express, offering both day and overnight options. Ticket prices range from $9 to $22 per person, providing flexibility to suit your travel preferences and budget.
B) From Hanoi to Hoi An (or Da Nang) via Sleeper Bus:
For travelers heading south from Hanoi to the enchanting towns of Hoi An or Da Nang, sleeper buses offer a comfortable and cost-effective option. The journey from Hanoi to Hoi An typically takes around 15 to 18 hours, allowing you to recline and rest during the overnight trip.
Bus companies such as Techbus VN, Viet Nam Travel Bus, Duc Duong, Queen Cafe, Hanh Cafe, and Futabus provide reliable services with day and overnight options available. Ticket prices range from $14 to $21 per person, offering an affordable way to reach your destination while experiencing the beauty of Vietnam’s countryside.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions - Travel route from Sapa to Hoi An (Da Nang):
1. How to book tickets / flights from Sapa to Hoi An and Da Nang?
⭐⭐⭐ You can book bus/train tickets + flights from Sapa to Hoi An and Da Nang easily online on Baolau or 12go.asia ⭐⭐⭐
(You can also search another routes, e.g. Sapa > Lao Cai, Lao Cai > Hanoi…)
2. How long does it take to travel from Sapa to Hoi An?
The duration of travel from Sapa to Hoi An varies based on the mode of transportation you choose. Typically, the journey takes around 20 to 24 hours by bus or train. However, this estimation includes transfers and layovers if you’re using multiple modes of transport. If you opt for a combination of bus and flight, the total travel time can be shorter, usually around 8 to 10 hours including layovers.
3. What are the transportation options available from Sapa to Hoi An?
Travelers have several transportation options to choose from when traveling from Sapa to Hoi An. These include buses, trains, and flights. Each option offers its own advantages in terms of cost, comfort, and travel time. Buses are typically the most budget-friendly option, while flights offer the fastest travel time. Trains provide a balance between cost and comfort, with the added benefit of scenic views along the way.
4. Are there direct flights from Sapa to Hoi An?
No, there are no direct flights from Sapa to Hoi An. To reach Hoi An by air, travelers usually take a flight from the nearest airports, such as Lao Cai or Hanoi, to Da Nang Airport, which is the closest airport to Hoi An. From Da Nang Airport, it’s a short bus or taxi ride to Hoi An.
5. How do I get from Sapa to the nearest airport for a flight to Hoi An?
To reach the nearest airport for a flight to Hoi An, you can take a bus or taxi from Sapa to Lao Cai Railway Station. From there, you can catch a train or bus to Hanoi, where you’ll find several airports offering flights to Da Nang Airport. Once you arrive at Da Nang Airport, you can continue your journey to Hoi An by bus or taxi.
6. Can I travel directly from Sapa to Hoi An by bus?
While there are no direct buses from Sapa to Hoi An, you can take a bus to Hanoi and then transfer to another bus or train to reach Hoi An. Alternatively, some travelers prefer to break up the journey with stopovers in cities like Hanoi or Hue, which are en route to Hoi An.
7. How frequent are the buses from Sapa to Hanoi?
Buses from Sapa to Hanoi operate regularly throughout the day, with departures every few hours. The frequency may vary depending on the bus company and the time of year. It’s advisable to check the schedule in advance and book your ticket accordingly, especially during peak travel seasons.
8. Is it possible to break the journey and explore other destinations en route from Sapa to Hoi An?
Yes, it’s entirely possible to make stopovers and explore other destinations en route from Sapa to Hoi An. Cities like Hanoi, Hue, and Da Nang offer plenty of attractions and cultural experiences worth exploring. Taking breaks along the journey allows you to make the most of your trip and discover more of Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and culture.
9. Are there sleeper buses or trains available for overnight travel from Sapa to Hoi An?
Yes, both sleeper buses and trains are available for overnight travel from Sapa to Hoi An. These options provide a comfortable way to travel long distances while resting during the journey. Sleeper buses offer reclining seats or berths for passengers to sleep, while sleeper trains provide cabins with bunk beds and bedding for overnight travel.
10. How far in advance should I book my tickets from Sapa to Hoi An?
It’s recommended to book your tickets at least a few days in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays. By booking in advance, you can secure your preferred mode of transportation and schedule, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable journey. Additionally, booking early may also help you find better deals and discounts on transportation fares.
11. What is the approximate cost of traveling from Sapa to Hoi An?
The cost of traveling from Sapa to Hoi An varies depending on several factors, including the mode of transportation, the class of service, and any additional fees or charges. On average, expect to spend between $30 to $100 for the entire journey, including transportation from Sapa to Hanoi, flights or trains from Hanoi to Da Nang, and transportation from Da Nang to Hoi An.
12. Are there any scenic views or attractions to look out for during the journey from Sapa to Hoi An?
Yes, the journey from Sapa to Hoi An offers plenty of scenic views and attractions to enjoy along the way. As you travel through the Vietnamese countryside, you’ll be treated to breathtaking landscapes of lush mountains, terraced rice fields, and picturesque villages. Keep your camera handy to capture the beauty of the scenery, and consider making stops to explore notable attractions in cities like Hanoi, Hue, and Da Nang along the route.
13. How to get from Sapa town to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi?
From Sapa to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi you can get by tourist bus, minivan, private taxi/car or train + bus. Travel by tourist bus to Noi Bai Airport from Sapa town takes about 5 hours, it is about 240 km. Read carefully this article: How to go to Noi Bai Airport from Sapa?
14. How to get and travel from Da Nang to Hoi An?
You have various ways how to get to Hoi An from Da Nang. There are tourist buses, private minivans, taxi, cars or you can use Grab. Travel from Da Nang to Hoi An takes about 1 hour. There are also private minivans and taxi/cars from Da Nang Airport to Hoi An.
15. Where and how you can travel from Hoi An or Da Nang?
From Hoi An and Da Nang you can travel to southern Vietnam. You can travel by train/bus or plane to Nha Trang. Nha Trang is a popular tourist site by foreign tourists. It is about 540 km south of Da Nang.
