Lao Cai Railway Station – Gateway to Sapa
When people talk about taking the train from Hanoi to Sapa, they’re actually referring to the train to Lao Cai. Sapa doesn’t have its own train station—Lao Cai is the closest one. So if you’re traveling from Hanoi to Sapa by train, you’ll arrive at Lao Cai Railway Station and continue the final 33–35 km to Sapa by road. This last stretch usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. Lao Cai town itself isn’t much of a destination, so it’s best to keep moving and head straight to the mountains.
What to expect at Lao Cai Railway Station
Lao Cai Railway Station is small and simple, but it works well for what most travelers need—especially if you’re heading to or from Sapa by train. Here’s what to expect when you arrive.
Facilities
The station has basic but useful amenities. There’s a small indoor waiting area with seating, public toilets, and a few ticket counters. You’ll also find snack stalls or small shops either inside or just outside the station, selling drinks and simple food. Luggage storage is sometimes available, but it’s informal—usually handled by station staff or nearby restaurants for a small fee. Free Wi-Fi may be available, but don’t rely on it for anything important.
Atmosphere
Most of the time, the station is quiet, especially during the day. It gets busier early in the morning when night trains from Hanoi arrive, and again in the evening when trains depart. As soon as you exit, expect a crowd of drivers offering rides to Sapa—some helpful, others pushy. Just keep walking calmly past the chaos, and you’ll soon find more organized transport options.
Taking the train from Hanoi to Lao Cai
The train from Hanoi to Lao Cai takes around 8 hours and usually runs overnight, making it a convenient option if you want to sleep through most of the journey. There are several types of trains to choose from, including basic Vietnam Railways options with soft seats or sleeper berths, as well as more comfortable tourist trains with upgraded cabins. For a full breakdown of routes, prices, and what each train offers, check our detailed guide:
→ From Hanoi to Sapa by Train – Full Guide
Train tickets for Lao Cai Railway Station
Where to buy tickets
You can buy train tickets either directly at Lao Cai Railway Station or online in advance. Tickets from Lao Cai to Hanoi are available at the station, but if you want a nicer tourist train with soft beds or private cabins, it’s better to book ahead.
Booking options
For regular Vietnam Railways trains, the official site is: dsvn.vn.
Tourist trains like Orient Express, Chapa Express, and Sapaly Express aren’t listed there. To book these, use:
- 12Go Asia
- Baolau.com
- Or book directly through the train company’s website or a trusted travel agency.
Train tickets included with our Sapa tours
Booking a full Sapa tour with us means you don’t have to worry about train tickets—we arrange everything for you. All of our multi-day tours from Hanoi include comfortable tourist trains, along with transfers, accommodation, and guided activities. It also include transfers from Lao Cai Train Station to Sapa.
Booking advice
Tourist trains are popular and often sell out—especially on weekends and holidays. If you want a soft sleeper or private cabin, it’s smart to book 1–2 weeks in advance. Waiting to buy at the station may leave you with fewer or less comfortable options.
From Lao Cai Railway Station to Sapa
Once you arrive at Lao Cai Railway Station, you’ll need to continue the journey to Sapa by road. The distance is about 33–35 km, and depending on traffic, the ride usually takes between 1 and 1.5 hours. There are a few ways to get there, each with its pros and cons.
Option 1: Shuttle Bus
This is the cheapest and most common option, costing around 40,000–60,000 VND per person. You’ll find shuttle vans waiting just outside the station or available through a small desk inside. They usually depart once full, so you may need to wait 15–30 minutes. These buses drop you off in central Sapa, not directly at hotels.
Option 2: Taxi
Taxis are more private and faster but also more expensive, typically between 300,000–500,000 VND for the whole car. Make sure to agree on the fare in advance or insist on using the meter. Taxis are a good option for groups, travelers with heavy luggage, or anyone wanting a direct ride to their hotel.
Option 3: Pre-Booked Transfer
If you prefer to have everything arranged in advance, many hotels and travel agencies offer private transfers. A driver will meet you with a sign at the station and take you straight to your accommodation. Prices are similar to taxis, but you avoid haggling and confusion—especially useful if you’re arriving early morning or late at night.
What to do in Lao Cai Town (If you have time to kill)
Lao Cai isn’t a place most travelers come to explore, and we don’t recommend planning extra time here. But if your return train is hours away and you’re stuck waiting, there are a few simple ways to pass the time near the station.
Lao Cai Market – A local market selling fresh produce, household goods, and clothing. Nothing special, but it’s nearby and offers a glimpse of daily life.
Lao Cai Cathedral – A small, modern-style church just a short walk from the station. Quiet and peaceful for a quick look.
Red River Border Viewpoint – Walk to the riverbank and you can see the Chinese town of Hekou just across the water. The border crossing bridge is nearby, but it’s not open to tourists.
Food & Drinks – If you’re waiting for the train, your best option is to find a nearby restaurant where you can sit, eat, and relax (see next section for recommendations).
For a full list, see our guide: Things to do in Lao Cai Town
Where to eat before your train back to Hanoi
If you’re catching the night train back to Hanoi, it’s a good idea to eat before boarding. Most trains depart late in the evening—often after regular dinner hours—and food options on board are very limited or not available at all. Fortunately, there are a few decent restaurants right across the street from Lao Cai Railway Station where you can sit down, have a proper meal, and wait comfortably. Here are some of the best choices:
Rock Pizza Lào Cai
Casual restaurant serving pizza, burgers, noodles, and more. It’s clean, spacious, and known for friendly staff—some travelers say they were able to store luggage here while waiting for their train.
Le Bordeaux Restaurant
Offers a mix of Western and Vietnamese dishes in an air-conditioned, quiet space. Guests appreciate the helpful service, phone charging, and comfortable seating while waiting for their departure.
Vietemotion Lào Cai
A larger restaurant often used by tour groups. The menu includes local and international dishes, and the place has clean toilets, space to relax, and reportedly allows short-term luggage storage.
Pro Tip:
There aren’t any real convenience stores nearby. If you want proper snacks or drinks for the train, buy them in Sapa before your journey. A few small kiosks near the station sell water and instant noodles, but options are limited.
