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25 Best Things to Do in Sapa (Vietnam)

Beautiful Sapa is located in the northern mountains of Vietnam and is made up of a main town in the Muong Hoa Valley. Surrounding Sapa proper you will find a selection of local villages which are the home of some of the ethnic minorities in Vietnam. This means that this part of the country has a distinct and unique culture which makes a visit here not to be missed if you are in the region. On the outskirts of the town you will find jade hued rice paddies that are cut into the craggy mountain sides and the air is cooler as the mountains covered in a delicate mist. If you like trekking then this is definitely the place to come as the rugged scenery and mountain air makes this the perfect place to get outside and explore.

Here are the 25 Best Things To Do In Sapa …

1. Get out into the local villages

Sapa is basically a collection of small local villages which are dotted around the mountains.

This means that this is the place to come if you want to get out of the cities of Vietnam and experience something a little more rural.

You can stay in the local villages in a guesthouse with a local family and this will also give you a glimpse of how people have lived here for centuries.

The homestay programs here are not for everyone but for many who have tried them they are the highlight of a trip to Vietnam.

Suggested tours :

• Sapa: 2-Day Trekking Tour with Minority Village Homestay
• From Sapa: Sapa Valley Trek with Local Villages Visit (5 hour tour)

2. Visit Sapa Museum

Sapa doesn’t have too many ‘attractions’ in the main town but one of the few it does have is the Sapa Museum.

As such, this is the main (and only) place to come if your want to find a showcase of the history and culture of the region which stretches back to the French colonial period.

You can also explore galleries which are dedicated to the various ethnic minorities that live in this part of Vietnam and this is a great place to find out all about this unique section of the country.

3. Buy some local handicrafts

Sapa is known for its villages which are made up of local families who are also ethnic minorities in Vietnam.

These families include the Dao, the Yay, the H’mong and the Phu La and each of these ethnic groups is known for making amazing local handicrafts.

When you travel to the villages you can see how these are made and also pick up some traditional weavings or carvings which make great gifts and souvenirs.

4. Go hiking

Sapa started out life as a scenic hill station during the colonial period and many people came here in the days of old to escape the heat and to enjoy the scenery.

The cool climate here also means that this is one of the best places to go hiking in Vietnam and much of Sapa is covered in lush green hills.

As well as the rolling mountains, you will also find gorgeous glittering waterfalls and stunning valleys which are dotted with craggy caves.

You can take a guided hiking tour of the best spots around Sapa or you can go it alone if you fancy an adventure.

5. Have a drink at Cafe in the Clouds

One of the great highlights of a trip to Sapa is the chance to take in the lush views and there is no better way to do this than by having a drink in one of the mountain bars.

One of the most famous is Cafe in the Clouds and as the name suggests you can spend time here enjoying the mist creeping across the eerie landscape and marvel at the vistas over the emerald green valley below.

You can get a range of drinks here as well as basic local and international dishes and this cafe also has Wi-Fi if you need to get online.

6. Join a H’mong Sewing Class

The H’mong indigenous group in Sapa is known for its sewing and weaving.

If you want to have a go at this firsthand, then you can visit Indigo Cat which is one of the most famous craft stores in town.

Here you can take a class where you can learn how to sew your own handicrafts and you will be taught by members of the local H’mong community.

If you prefer then you can simply visit the shop to buy some of the souvenirs on display which include beautiful textiles as well as other delights like local teas and spices.

7. Hike Fan Si Pan

Fan Si Pan has the claim to fame of being the highest mountain in Indochina and is located at some 3,143 meters above sea level.

The mountain is around 9 kilometers outside the center of Sapa and it can take a full week to get to the summit.

If you are feeling fit however and if you have the time, then this is an experience of a lifetime and you will be able to take in gorgeous views over Hoang Lien Son.

If you prefer, then you can also do some shorter treks which will take you part way up the mountain.

One of the highlights of trekking around Fan Si Pan is the chance to check out the local flora and fauna such as cute monkeys and antelopes.

8. Visit Cat Cat Village

The charmingly named Cat Cat Village is one of the oldest villages in the Sapa region and it is also known for being the home of the H’mong ethnic group.

The village is famous for its traditional industries such as flax and cotton production and there is a strong tradition of weaving here.

When travelers visit, they can learn all about these traditional techniques as well as spend time studying the H’mong culture.

9. Check out the barbecue restaurants

Vietnam is known for its delicious barbecued meats and these can be a welcome treat in the cold climes of Sapa.

If you want to find a high concentration of barbecue stalls in Sapa then you need to head to D Phan Si where you will find a number of simple joints set up along the road.

These stalls barbecue a range of meats including chicken, pork and beef over hot coals and these are served with vegetables and sometimes rice wraps so that you can roll everything together to make a toothsome kind of spring roll.

10. Walk to Silver Waterfalls

Sapa is famous for its waterfalls and one of these is Silver Waterfalls.

This is a collection of gushing cataracts that tower to a height of some 200 meters.

Located just up the path from Silver Waterfalls is the beautifully named Love Waterfall which is a place that is steeped in local legend.

Locals will tell you that fairies used to bathe in the waters here and although it is a long trek to both waterfalls it is more than worth it for the pretty scenery.

Suggested tour : From Sapa: Waterfalls, Trekking and Tribal Villages Tour

11. Explore Fairy Cave

Another key attraction is Sapa is Fairy Cave which is located a little way upstream from the Chay River.

The cave looks like something out of a fairy tale, as the name suggests, and the scenery here is reminiscent of Halong Bay.

The cave is said to be sacred in Vietnam and the mountain here is also cut through with babbling streams which make the perfect place to go for a swim at the end of a long trek.

12. Go boating on Sapa Lake

Sapa Lake is one of the main attractions in town and is just a 5 minute walk away from the main church.

The lake allows you to take in the beauty of Sapa from the water and this is a popular place to come for local families at the weekends.

One of the great highlights of the lake is that you can rent a peal boat for an hour and shoot all over the glassy surface of the water and enjoy the sights.

13. Visit Tram Ton Pass

If you want to see more of the scenery in Sapa then you need to head for the Sapa and Lai Chau road which then turns into the Tram Ton Pass.

The pass stands at an elevation of some 1900 meters which makes it the highest pass in all of Vietnam.

You will find a number of lookout points here which have amazing views over the surrounding area and you can also combine a trip here with the nearby Silver Waterfall.

14. Shop at Sapa Market

If you want to enjoy a traditional shopping experience in Sapa, then head for Sapa Market which is also conveniently located close to the local bus station.

Here you will find a range of colorful local produce as well as a fresh meat section which is certainly not for the faint of heart.

You will also find some handicrafts here sold by the hill-tribes people that live in the villages around Sapa.

15. Watch the Ta Phin Commune Church Singing

If you happen to be in Sapa during the first few weeks of spring then you can travel to Ta Phin Village where you can watch the annual church singing.

This is actually a traditional wedding tradition and you will get to watch brides and grooms parading through the village while locals sing and dance around them.

The colorful outfits worn by the young lovers are worth the trip itself and visitors are welcome to watch the festivities as long as you are respectful of the proceedings at the same time.

16. Walk around Muong Khuong Bird Market

Many towns in Southeast Asia have a local bird market and Sapa is no exception.

If you visit Muong Khuong Bird Market then you will get to watch the different tribes of the region getting together to listen to the birds sing.

In Vietnam many houses will hang a bird cage in front of their home to bring good luck, and people buy and trade birds from the market.

As such you can listen to avians such as nightingales signing and the market is a bustling affair which is best visited in the morning if you want to see it at its peak.

17. Check out Muong Hoa Valley

The Muong Hoa Valley is one of the jewels in the crown of Sapa and you will find the Hoa Stream cleaving through the valley and running through to villages like Han Thao and Tan Van.

You can take a tour from Sapa that will lead you through the amazing valley and there are even paintings on stones here that are said to date back some 3,000 years.

If you walk down to the bottom of the valley then you can also enjoy some river hiking along the Hoa Stream.

Suggested tour : Private Hoang Lien National Park & Tribal Village Trek

18. Drink some wine in Ban Pho Village

One of the best villages to visit around Sapa is undoubtedly the Ban Pho Village which is the home of the Mongolian Bac Ha tribe.

The village is also known for its wine making industry and when you come here you can learn how the villagers have been making corn wine here for centuries and even sample some of this signature tipple yourself.

You can also easily visit Ban Pho as part of a day trip from Sapa and as with all the villages in the region it also has spectacular views over the rice fields.

19. Admire Sapa Church

Sapa doesn’t have a huge range of monuments, but one of the most recognizable buildings in town is Sapa Church which dates back to the French colonial period.

The church is closed throughout the week and only opens for Mass every Sunday, but you can check out the exterior which is very pretty or venture inside if you happen to be here at the weekend.

20. Go for a walk around Ham Rong Resort

Ham Rong Resort is actually something of a misnomer as this is not a resort but more of an informal park area which sits at the base of Ham Rong Mountain.

Here you will find a cool and serene place to go for a walk although be warned, there are a lot of steps that lead you up the mountainside.

Still, if you don’t want to tackle some of the larger mountains in the region such as Fan Si Pan then this is a good place to go for a walk for a few hours and take some photographs across the valley.

21. Take a cooking class

Vietnam is world famous for its delicious food, and with that in mind you may want to have a go at cooking it yourself.

You will get the chance to learn from a H’mong chef who will take you out to the local market so that you can learn all about the traditional ingredients used in Vietnamese cooking.

Classes usually include learning how to cook five local dishes which you can then eat in the communal dining room at that end of the class and also pair with some local wines.

22. Dine at the Hot Pot Stalls

The weather in Sapa can be much colder than other parts of Vietnam due to the advanced elevation.

As a result, if you feel like you need warming up, then you may want to take a trip to the famous Hot Pot Stalls of Sapa.

These are considered to be a local delicacy in the town and this kind of hot pot is known as lau in Vietnamese.

The hot pot consists of meat stew which is then cooked with local vegetables such as cabbage and mushrooms which makes for simple yet hearty fare.

25. Tour the rice fields

The main reason why many people come to Sapa is to visit the rice fields, and even if you decide not to stay overnight in a homestay with a local family, a trip out into the countryside is not to be missed.

You can book a guided tour from Sapa which will take you out onto the famous stepped rice terraces and you can admire the views and also learn now the locals till the fields and harvest the rice.

25 Best Things to Do in Sapa (Vietnam):

• Get out into the local villages
• Visit Sapa Museum
• Buy some local handicrafts
• Have a drink at Cafe in the Clouds
• Join a H’mong Sewing Class
• Hike Fan Si Pan
• Visit Cat Cat Village
• Check out the barbecue restaurants
• Walk to Silver Waterfalls
• Explore Fairy Cave
• Go boating on Sapa Lake
• Visit Tram Ton Pass
• Shop at Sapa Market
• Watch the Ta Phin Commune Church Singing
• Walk around Muong Khuong Bird Market
• Check out Muong Hoa Valley
• Drink some wine in Ban Pho Village
• Admire Sapa Church
• Go for a walk around Ham Rong Resort
• Take a cooking class
• Dine at the Hot Pot Stalls
• Tour the rice fields

Things To Do In Sapa

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1. Ride The Fansipan Cable Car

1 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Instead of climbing for around 4 hours for three days, the Fansipan Cable Car will take you to the top of the Fansipan Peak in just 15 minutes. It starts from the Fansipan Legend tourist area in the center of Sapa town and ends at Fansipan Cable Car station. From there, you need to climb 600 steps to reach the mountain.The view from the cable car is breathtaking.

2. Spend A Fun Day At Sunworld Fansipan Legend

2 km from city center 2 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Cradled in the Hoang Lien Mountain Range, Sun World Fansipan in Sapa is a tourism and cultural complex offering recreational experiences, attractions, and accommodations. A 20-minute cable car ride takes you to Fansipan Peak at 3,143m altitude. At Fansipan, there are more than a dozen spiritual destinations to explore. The Great Buddha Statue, rising over 3,000m, is the primary highlight.

3. Trekking To Fansipan Mountain

8 km from city center 3 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Fondly known as the 'Roof of Indochina', Fansipan, in Vietnam, is the largest mountain in the Indochina region (Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos. Standing at over 3 Km (3147 ft) in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, it is situated around 9 Km away from Sapa. This mountain attracts hiking and trekking enthusiasts. Reaching the top takes 3-5 days via a trek of intermediate difficulty. Tour companies organize these treks with overnight stays near the peak and at various spots during the climb.

4. Visit Cat Cat Village

1 km from city center 4 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Cat Cat Village is a Hmong tribe village at the bottom of Muong Hoa Valley. It was established by H’mong and Dzao families in the 19th century. The open-air museum-like village has beautiful traditional houses, rice terraces, handicraft shops, and hiking trails. It is a popular place to visit for tourists interested in the culture and ethnicity of the mountain people inhabiting North Vietnam.There is a fee of VND 25,000 charged for entering the village.

Sapa Travel Packages

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Hanoi and Sapa Tour Package with Overnight Train Transfers

Classic vietnam tour including sapa & mekong delta, sapa 3 days 2 nights trekking package - overnight in ta van village, 7 days northern vietnam adventure: fansipan mountain tour, offbeat vietnam itinerary 10 days: muong hoa valley trek from sapa, sapa tour package with hanoi, da nang and halong bay, 5. boating in sapa lake.

0 km from city center 5 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Lying in the heart of the buzzing city is Sapa Lake. It offers a pleasant respite from the constant hustle-bustle with its mirror-like charm. Perfect for family and friends alike, the lake is located in Ngu Chi Son. You can enjoy a peaceful boat ride or a stroll around the lake with a cup of coffee from the various cafes surrounding it.

6. Hike To Muong Hoa Valley

1 km from city center 6 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Muong Hoa Valley is the largest farmland in Sapa and Lao Cai, offering breathtaking scenery. Located at the intersection of two large mountains, the valley is popular for trekking along the Muong Hoa river. Explore the rolling emerald hills, stunning views, and traditional village life here. It is also famous for its motorbike ride.

Top Hotels In Sapa

₽ 24,873,668 onwards

VND 300,000 onwards

VND 113,999 onwards

₹ 680 onwards

7. Admire The Silver Waterfall

7 km from city center 7 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Silver Waterfall or Thac Bac waterfall is a picturesque cascade of water located right beside the Highway 4D. Located about 30 minutes away from the Sapa main town, Silver waterfall lives upto its name. The white waters cascading down the hill slope glint in the sunlight, making it appear as though molten silver is flowing down the slope. From the base of the waterfall, you can climb upto a distance of 30 metres to get a better view. If you look in the other direction, you are greeted by sights of green pine forests on the hill slopes.

8. Tour Sapa Museum

0 km from city center 8 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Occupying a beautiful traditional Vietnamese wood-lined stilt house, Sapa Museum showcases the history and ethnology of the Sapa region. It has a static exhibit upstairs that stretches back to the colonial period including belongings of the first man to arrive here and royal relics, before moving on to exuberant French colonial-era artifacts. The ground level has an art and souvenir shop selling beautiful locally made crafts.

9. Trek To Hoang Lien National Park

23 km from city center 9 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Hoang Lien National Park is a popular ecotourism destination and a hub for scientific research. Situated at a height ranging from 1000 to 3000 meters above sea level, it is a wide stretch of forest that is home to 66 different species, of which 16 species are in VietNam’s Red Book. The park serves as an ideal location for trekking expeditions.

10. Visit Stone Church of Sapa

0 km from city center 10 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Built in the 20th century by French colonizers, the Holy Rosary Church is known for its unique architecture and cross-shaped bell tower in the west. It is also known as the Stone Church of Sapa or the Church of the Holy Lady of the Rosary, or Notre Dame Cathedral. The windows are embellished with 32 colorful stained glasses depicting Jesus’s life. The church is closed throughout the week and only opens every Sunday for Mass. You can admire its architecture from the outside.

11. Walk To The Love Waterfall

0 km from city center 11 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

A 30-minute walk in the Hoang Lien National Park will take you to the peak of Fansipan Mountain, where you can view the breathtaking 100 meters tall Love Waterfall. Legend has it, fairies bathed here, and one of them fell for a young boy playing the flute. She transformed into a bird to be with her love forever after her parents forbade her from returning to the falls, hence the name.

12. Drive Through Tram Ton Pass

7 km from city center 12 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Situated at an elevation of 1,900 metres between two mountains on the northern side of Mount Fansipan, Tram Ton is Vietnam’s longest and highest pass. It connects Sapa to Lai Chau, dividing the regions into distinct climatic zones. Tram Ton spreads over 50 kilometres and overlooks unforgettable views of lush peaks, earning it the nickname “Heaven’s Gate”. One can also stop to swim at Silver Waterfall on the way uphill.

13. Hoang Yen Chao Castle

52 km from city center 13 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

The Hoang Yen Chao Castle, or Hoang A Tuong Palace, is a destination with a rich and illustrious history attached to itself. The owner of this palace was a Tay person by the name of Hoang Yen Chao. Reflecting the essence of French and Chinese architecture, this palace is a magnificent tourist spot.

14. Sapa Market

14 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Located at QL4D, TT. Sa Pa in Lao Cai, Sapa Market is a must-visit tourist attraction famous for trading and socializing in Vietnam. It has at its disposal traditional handmade products made by the ethnic groups of this region. The visitors can immerse themselves in the local life and also get the local taste and flavor of the traditional food available at the Sapa Market.

15. Day Tour To Ta Phin Village

6 km from city center 15 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Located at an elevation of 1600m on the Lo Suay Tong hill slope, Ta Phin village is a serene ecotourism destination surrounded by mountains. The hamlet is characterized by lush green plantations of rice, paddy, hemp, indigo, and other indigenous crops. Walk through the crop terraces, witness artisans and craftsmen at work, or enjoy a medicinal bath. There is also an ancient, ruined monastery here.

16. Take A Cooking Class

0 km from city center 16 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Tourists can top off a trip to Sapa with a cooking class and learn to create delectable Vietnamese delights. These classes include learning about traditional recipes along with a trip to the market to gather the ingredients. The classes usually end with a local wine tasting to pair off the meals prepared. Some of the popular cooking classes include the H’Mong Cooking School, the Hill Station Cooking Class, etc.

17. Fairy Cave

43 km from city center 17 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

The pristine beauty of the Fairy Cave is a nature lover's paradise. The cool blue waters of the Chay river surrounded by cavernous rocks seem to be a scene right from your favourite childhood fable and will transport you to a tranquil state right away. One needs to row upstream the river before reaching the virgin beauty of this destination.

18. Cong Caphe

18 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Cong Caphe is a renowned cafe chain which was first started in 2007. One of the outlets is located in the Sa Pa town of Vietnam. Nestled in the northwestern region of Vietnam, Cong Ca Phe in Sa Pa is best known for the Vietnamese coffee. It is everybody’s favorite because of its Communist/ Retro-theme which earned it the title of the best-designed cafes in Vietnam. You can treat yourself with the variety of coffees and juices at the Cong Caphe after a tiring hike in Sa Pa.

19. Hiking in Sapa

1 km from city center 19 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Sapa has many wonderful hiking experiences to offer. December is the best time to enjoy a good hike in Sapa. Tourists can take a hiking trip to Dragon Jaw Mountain (Ham Rong Mountain Park). Due to its central location, it is easily accessible by foot. Hikers will come across stone monuments along with diverse flora and fauna.

20. O Quy Ho Pass

9 km from city center 20 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

O Quy Ho pass is located 2000 meters above sea level and is vietnam's longest pass. O Quy Ho pass, named after a mythical bird which is said to have lived in the region, offers a picturesque cloudy top. One-Half of the pass is in Lai Chau while the other is in lao cai and in winter, you can strikingly feel the weather change between the two regions. This area offers some of the best scenic viewpoints in the country.

21. Ham Rong Mountain

0 km from city center 21 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Ham Rong mountain has a unique shape of a dragon holding its head up to the sky. According to local legend, it was home to a dragon couple who were deeply in love. Unfortunately, a flood struck them one day, and the female dragon fell. During this, she raised her head towards her partner, who was flying towards heaven, and her body is now the majestic range. Tourists, from the top, can enjoy a panoramic view of the Sapa valley and explore the Flower Garden, known for its orchid vegetation. In addition, visitors can also tour the Love Market and the Heaven Gate!

22. Bac Ha Market

51 km from city center 22 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

The region of Bac Ha is a mix of activities on Saturday evenings when the weekly market comes to life, and this celebration of Vietnamese culture continues on Sunday as well. From intricately designed handmade traditional clothing to delicious local cuisine, all the essentials of this vibrant culture find a place here. You can interact with the locals and learn about their culture and lifestyle, which is a mesmerising experience in its own right. Popular items that you can buy from here include different textiles, saddles for horses, bags, cushions, figurines and other handcrafted items. Bac Ha is also famous for Tam Hoa plums.

23. Ta Van Village

11 km from city center 23 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Located quite close to the town centre of Sapa, and set in the breathtakingly stunning valley of Muong Hoa, the Ta Tan Village is a welcome relief from the busy streets of Sapa and boasts of being home of vast rice fields and pristine beauty. A short trip or even a night stay at this simple yet beautiful village is an excellent way to explore the local lifestyle and culture of the communities that reside here.

24. Rice Terraces in Sapa

0 km from city center 24 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Tucked in the Northern pockets of Vietnam lies Sapa, with its rice terraces where the best time to visit is September and early October. The most scenic fields are located in the Muong Hoa Valley. The climate is also optimum for enjoying cycling, trekking, and sightseeing around the paddy fields and meandering valleys of Y Linh Ho, Tan Phin Ta Van, Lao Chai, etc. You can also opt for motorbiking through the Sapa Loop, which takes up to 2-3 days. To top off the experience, visitors can stay for a day or two at a local homestay.

25. Trekking in Sapa

1 km from city center 25 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

The picturesque valleys of Sapa are perfect for trekking. The most popular trek takes up to two days which tourists can prelude with a visit to the Cat Cat village. Scaling Fansipan Mountain is an excellent option for those looking for a challenging trek. March-April is ideal for trekking when the weather is refreshing, and the treks are easily navigable. Most guided tours start from the city centre, so it’s better to opt for a night-stay nearby.

26. Bike Trips in Sapa

0 km from city center 26 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Bicycle tours are a fantastic way to explore and sightsee in Sapa. This includes sightseeing and cycling through the Heaven Gate Pass, Silver Waterfall, and tea plantations in Tan Uyen. These tours also provide the opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their culture and customs. Be sure to pack light and keep snacks handy while taking a bike tour in Sapa. Tourists can book guided tours online with operators such as Saigon City Tours, Paradise Indochina Travel etc.

27. Ban Pho Village

0 km from city center 27 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Fifteen minutes away from Bac Ha town is the village of Ban Pho, home to Flower H’Mong and Black H’Mong. You can view the Bac Ha highland from here as well as learn about the traditional handicrafts of cotton and linen. The village is especially known for its corn wine which tourists can enjoy and even take back home as souvenirs.

28. Quang Truong Square

0 km from city center 28 out of 28 Things To Do in Sapa

Quang Truong Square is the town square in Sapa, which is a giant field with cement slates located between the Sun Plaza and the Holy Rosary Church in the heart of Sapa city. You can find traditional handicrafts here. Events and concerts like the Lantern Festival are also organized in Quang Truong square by locals. The main attraction is the ‘Love Market’ which is held here every Saturday night.

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Sapa town stands at the head of a deep valley of magnificent rice terraces that are still farmed today as they have been for centuries. Backdrops don’t get much more spectacular. Enticing ribbons of road lead the eye down to the valley floor, white-water rivers rush among rice fields, and lush green mountains stretch into the distance as far as the eye can see. The highest peak in the region, Mount Fansipan, crowns the ragged ridge line high above town.

Top things to do in Sapa

Summit Mount Fansipan

A 6-kilometre cable car journey will whisk you 3,143m to the summit of Mount Fansipan in just 15 minutes.  Wander the pagoda complex before climbing the last few steps to the summit. The views from the ‘Roof of Indochina’ are unmatched.

Visit an ethnic minority market

Every Sunday the Bac Ha market bursts into life, as hundreds of traders from the Dzao, Han, Xa Fang, Tay and Thai tribes descend on the market, decked out in traditional garb. Expect a riot of colour and excited haggling.

Go trekking in the hills

Sapa offers some of Vietnam's best trekking, and some villages such as Cat Cat and Ta Phin can be seen without a guide. Book an overnight trek to wander through rice terraces, bathe in waterfalls and experience ethnic culture firsthand.

Stay in a mountain lodge 

Stay outside the tourist hub of Sapa in simple comfort at a mountaintop lodge. Sapa is home to excellent lodges and homestays. Set among the rice terraces, you’ll brush shoulders with farmers as they go about their daily lives.

Mountain biking is a great way to get out and explore lesser-visited corners of Sapa. The annual Vietnam Mountain Marathon attracts some 4000 competitors who run buffalo-beaten trails ranging from 10 to 100 kilometres.

Sapa Weather

The best time to visit Sapa is in September and October when the rice terraces are at their most splendid; or in April and May when the weather is ideal and skies are clear. For those who don’t mind hot weather, June to August is a fine time to visit. Expect chilly weather from November to March.

Sapa Transport

Overnight trains  are the most popular way to reach Sapa via the neighbouring province capital, Lao Cai. Upon arrival, transfer vans finish the journey up the mountains. Alternatively, regular buses and shuttle vans run from Hanoi with a journey time of five to six hours, stopping in the centre of town. As a former hill station, Sapa has plenty of steep roads and pathways. Many visitors get around by foot, or by taxi. Adventure-seekers can rent mountain bikes to explore the trails along the valley.

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Victoria sapa resort and spa, sapaly hotel lao cai, topas ecolodge.

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Sapa Attractions

Best Places to Visit and Sightseeing Guide in Sapa

Sapa, the town in the mist of the northwest highlands of Vietnam, is proud of a long list of worth-visiting Sapa attractions . Here, you can climb the immense terraced fields layered following the hillsides in the gently sloping Muong Hoa valley, spend the night on the mist-covered hills, attend the bustling highland markets at the foot of the mountain, conquering Fansipan mountain – the roof of Indochina in the sunset, or experience local culture in ethnic minority villages. All will bring unique experiences that are hard-to-find anywhere else.

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Cat Cat Village, Sapa: The Most Beautiful Village In The Northwest

Ban Ho Village in Sapa, Lao Cai

Lao Chai Village: An Instagram-worthy Spot in Sapa

Y Linh Ho Village: The Pristine Beauty of Sapa, Lao Cai

Sapa attraction guide.

Hoang Lien National Park Travel Guide In Sapa

Cloud Bridge (Cầu Mây) – A Hidden Attraction in Sapa

Coc San Cave – A Mysteriously Splendid Spot in Sapa, Vietnam

The Majestic Thac Bac Waterfall – Highlight of Sapa Tourism

Sapa Church – An Ancient Symbol of the Sapa Misty Town

The Mystery of Sapa Ancient Stone Field, Vietnam

Muong Hoa Valley – Eden in Sapa and Necessary Things to Know

Travel Guide to Tram Ton Pass, Sapa, Vietnam

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Established as a hill station by the French colonialists in 1922, Sapa today is the tourism centre of the northwest.

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Experience the real Sapa. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Fansipan Cable Car

Towering above Sapa are the Hoang Lien Mountains, once known to the French as the Tonkinese Alps and now a national park. These mountains include the…

Sapa Museum

An excellent showcase of the history and ethnology of the Sapa area, including the French colonial era. Dusty exhibitions overview the various ethnic…

Sapa Market

Turfed out of central Sapa and now in a purpose-built modern building near the bus station, Sapa Market is still interesting, and hill-tribe people from…

Tram Ton Pass

The road between Sapa and Lai Chau crosses the Tram Ton Pass on the northern side of Mt Fansipan, 15km from Sapa. At 1900m it's Vietnam’s highest mountain…

Sapa Church

Sapa's small stone church was built by the French and is still a central landmark. It opens for Mass on Sunday and on certain evenings for prayers.

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Located in the Northwest of Vietnam, which is 38 km from the center of Lao Cai City and 376 km from  Hanoi . Besides the main road from Lao Cai City, there is another route to Sapa, the National Highway 4D connects from Binh Lu, Tam Duong, and Lai Chau communes. Although the majority of Sapa residents are ethnic minorities, the town is home to the majority of the Kinh people living on tourism.

SAPA WEATHER

Blessed with a cool climate all year round, Sapa attracts many tourists to this beautiful land. Located at an average height of 1.500m – 1.800m, Sapa is effected by temperate climate, with an average temperature of 15 °C to 18 °C. From May to August, Sapa has a lot of rain. At the end of the year, when winter comes, the temperature in Sapa can drop below 0 degrees, sometimes it snows.

THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO SAPA

You can go to Sapa at any time of the year, but the most suitable time to go to Sapa is from March to May or from September to November. During these times, the Sapa weather is good to visit, relatively mild, sunny in the day time, and cold at night.

From March to May: the blooming flowers season 

Thousands of flowers bloom all over the hillsides, halfway up the slopes, valleys, mountain slopes, or roads on the town. All blends together to create the most beautiful, colorful picture you can see when traveling to Sapa.

From September to November: the rice season

At this time, the rice begins to ripen, the scenery of Sapa turns to the brilliant golden color of the rice, embracing the northwestern mountains, which is from September to October. From October to December, the weather may have turned cold and foggy, which is also the season of water in Sapa.

Besides these two wonderful times, visitors can also consider going to Sapa in December when Sapa is very cold, especially at night, and sometimes it snows. At this time, many young couples want to enjoy the romance of the snowy scenery, watch the peach blossom trees in the breeze, as well as the sunrise in the high valley in the early morning. It will be an experience that is hard to find anywhere else in Vietnam.

Sapa tourist map

Sapa is a beautiful town with many attractive destinations. Still, the attractions here are far from each other and relatively difficult to travel, so we recommend a Sapa travel map, you can rely on it to find a suitable schedule.

How to get to Sapa

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As one of the best destinations in Vietnam, traveling to Sapa is extremely easy and has many different options, such as cars, limousines, and trains. We will guide you on how to go from  Hanoi  to Sapa in detail. 

FROM HANOI TO SAPA

Currently, many bus companies run Hanoi to Sapa with very affordable fares, ranging from 180.000 – 200.000 VND/person/way, which have 2 times of travel: early in the morning from 6:30 am or late in the evening from 10 pm.

2. By Train

If you go to Sapa from Hanoi, you have to move to Tran Quy Cap station. Although the roads are convenient today, the train only stops at Lao Cai station; you have to take the bus to move up to Sapa. But going by train is also one of the exciting experiences that you must try once.

There are two options for you, one is the soft seat, the other and air-conditioned bed. The train starts at 9 or 10 pm and arrives early in the morning. The fare is around 200.000 – 600.000 VND/ passenger depending on the cabin class.

3. By Limousine

Besides the above choices, you also can go to Sapa from Hanoi by Limousine. It is an entirely new design with nine seats, ensuring comfort and convenience. Limousine prices are not too high, ranging from 300.000 to 600.000 VND/one depending on the company and seat class, travel time of 4 – 5 hours.

GETTING AROUND SAPA

To get around Sapa town, you have three options: rent a motorcycle and go by yourself, hire a motorbike driver, take a taxi.

1. Rent a motorcycle

With prices ranging from 120.000 to 180.000 VND/one, you can explore this land on your own. Remember, the above prices are applied in 1 day (from 6 am to 6 pm). Whether you rent morning or night, the same rate applies.

2. Hire a motorbike tour guide

For those traveling alone, hiring a motorbike driver is probably the best choice. Price range from 100.000 – 150.000 VND for 4-5 famous places near each other.

3. Take a Taxi

Besides the above options, you can also hire a taxi to move around Sapa town. However, ethnic minority villages are often located deep in small alleys. Therefore, you should consider this option, which will be quite expensive!

Where to stay in Sapa

As the leading tourist destination in Vietnam, there are many accommodation options in Sapa.

There are two areas with cheap accommodations in Sapa: Xuan Vien and Fansipan Street, the average price is from 200.000 VND – 400.000 VND/night for two people room. On weekends and public holidays, the price may be higher.

If you want to be in a quiet space, close to nature, you should stay at a homestay. When staying at a homestay, visitors also discover a lot of new and exciting things about the lifestyle and traditional culture of the people here.

Nowadays, there are some homestay villages such as Ban Ho, Lao Chai, Ta Phin, and Ta Van. If you are a little bit more condition, you can choose the villas or resorts with beautiful views and luxurious services.

Here are some recommendations for accommodation in Sapa, which are excerpted from the  Vietnam travel guide book .

The most attractive destinations in Sapa

Sapa is famous for its many marvelous mountains and beautiful terraced fields. There are destinations you cannot miss when traveling to this town.

DESTINATIONS IN THE SAPA CENTER

1. Sapa stone church

Built in 1895, it is considered as an ancient architectural imprint of the French left. The church has been renovated and preserved, becoming an indispensable place when mentioning the Sapa town.

2. Ham Rong Mountain

Standing on the top of Ham Rong Mountain, you can enjoy panoramic views of Sapa, Muong Hoa valley, Ta Phin hidden in the clouds. Visiting Ham Rong, tourists seem to be lost in the fairy garden with clouds and colorful flowers on the ground.

3. Cat Cat village

From the town center, following the way towards Fansipan mountain about 4km, visitors will come to Cat Cat village. This is the gathering place of H’mong ethnic people.

Owning a beautiful location right at the down of Hoang Lien Son mountain, Cat Cat is a lovely village with the simple and beautiful natural scenery of terraced rice fields and small stilt houses in Northwestern Vietnam.

Location: about 4km from the center of Sapa

4. Ta Van village 

Follow 4D Highway to the Southeast, about 8 km from Sapa town to Ta Van Giay village. Coming here, visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about the lifestyle of the Giay’s ethnic. The road to Ta Van Giay village is small and narrow, both sides of the road are fertile terraced fields adorned with the green of corn and young rice.

Location: about 8 km from the center of Sapa

5. Sin Chai village

Sin Chai village, in San Sa Ho Ward, is a village that retains its untouched. This is a village of Black Hmong ethnic with a population of about 1.400 people. Besides planting rice and hybrid maize, Sin Chai villagers also grow cardamom that creates significant income for people in this ancient valley.

Location: about 5 km from the center of Sapa

6. Muong Hoa valley

The special thing in this valley is the ancient rock with many different shapes, interspersed between grasses and terraced fields of ethnic minorities. Hundreds of sandstones with engraved drawings and strange characters have not been identified yet, which has been recognized as a national heritage. In Muong Hoa valley, there is also a beautiful stream stretching about 15 km, passing through Lao Chai, Ta Van, Hau Thao communes, and ending at Ban Ho.

Location: Hau Hao Commune, 8 km to the South of Sapa

DESTINATIONS FAR FROM THE CENTER OF SAPA

1. O Quy Ho mountain pass

Dubbed as one of the four high peaks of the Northwest Pass, O Quy Ho is a destination that any backpacker wants to conquer. O Quy Ho mountain pass with a length of more than 40km, is located at an altitude of over 2.000 meters, on 4D National Highway crossing Hoang Lien Son range. The top of the pass is between two provinces of Lai Chau and Lao Cai. The beauty of O Quy Ho Pass is always changing: Lao Cai province side is foggy while Lai Chau province side is sunny, which creates a beautiful landscape picture that attracts both domestic and foreign visitors.

Location: about 15 km from the center of Sapa

2. Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall

From Sapa town, going to the West for about 11km on the way to Lai Chau Province, you will encounter rushing Silver Falls flowing down from an altitude of over 100m into a stream under the O Quy Ho valley, creating an impressive sound of mountains and forests. However, during the dry season, you should consider when visiting Silver Falls because then the waterfall has very little water. A further 3 km from Silver Falls is to Heaven Gate to look down on Lai Chau valley and the majestic Fansipan peak. If you like to walk, you can stop at Tram Ton and go through Hoang Lien National Park about 1 km more to explore Love Waterfall.

Location: about 11 km to the West of Sapa

3. Ta Phin village

This village owns a beautiful natural landscape along with the precious cultural traits of the Red Dao ethnic people. Coming to Ta Phin village, you can also visit the nearby Ta Phin cave. In this cave, there are many exciting stalactites shaped like fairy dancing, a party fairy sitting, distant fields, sparkling forests.

Location: about 15 km from the Sapa

4. Fansipan peak

The experience when visiting Sapa that you cannot miss is conquering Fansipan Peak – the highest mountain in Vietnam and Indochina Peninsula (3.143 m), located in the center of Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Currently, there are two options for you if you want to conquer Fansipan peak. First, you can go trekking Fansipan by following the tour of travel agencies or by yourself with the guidance of local people.

Secondly, you can also choose to go by cable car. Fansipan cable car route helped over ten thousand visitors who arrived at Fansipan Peak to admire, explore, and conquer the highest roof in Indochina. This is also the cable car with 2 Guinness records: the three-wire cable car with the most significant difference between the world’s departure and arrival station, about 141m and the longest three-cable cable car in the world, about 6292.5m. The time to travel to the Fansipan Peak is now shortened from 2 days to only 15 minutes.

Location: about 9 km to the Southwest of Sapa

5. Tien Cave

Upstream of Chay River about 6 km, from the center of Bao Nhai commune (Bac Ha District), the boat will take you through the ancient city of Trung Do with many legends. Chay River constricted to create a deep, gentle stream, weaving between the two vertical cliffs. Tien Cave is a miniature Ha Long Bay, associated with the legend of Ba Co temple in Bao Nhai commune. Many tourists come here to enjoy the scenery, take a bath in the Tien stream, bask in the morning light on the flower island, pray for the beauty, health and wealth.

Location: 6km from the center of Bao Nhai commune, Bac Ha District

6. Coc San waterfall

Coc San is a system of waterfalls and caves with many various sizes. From 4D National Highway, there is a small dirt road about 1km long that is leading to Coc San. The way to Coc San is very twisted, dark, and filled with rocks. The beauty of Coc San is still completely natural and wild. Coc San landscape is harmonious and spacious. Everyone who comes here feels the miraculous mystery emanating from the waterfalls, rocks, and caves.

Location: Coc San, Bat Xat District, 7 km from Lao Cai Province

7. Hoang A Tuong Palace

Hoang A Tuong Palace, also known as the Northern Cat King Palace, is a tourist destination that many people choose when traveling to Sapa because of the majestic architecture after nearly 100 years of existence.

Hoang A Tuong Palace was built in a combination of Asian and European architecture, which was designed and constructed by French and Chinese architects.

Built in a closed rectangular layout on a total area of about 4.000 m2, the palace was both a workplace and living for the Hoang family. At the same time, there was a guard tower protruding on the four sides of the wall, no different from the fortresses in Europe. It can be said Hoang A Tuong Palace is a unique and majestic wonder in Bac Ha plateau and a destination you cannot ignore in Sapa.

Location: Bac Ha District

8. Bac Ha fair market

Bac Ha is the largest fair in the highland border area. The market meets on Sunday every week, attracting a large number of people around the region to trade and have fun. It is still a place to exchange and trade of ethnic minorities, mainly ethnic people from all surrounding villages. The stalls displayed all the essentials, such as clothes, shovels, and household items.

Top 7 must-try dishes in Sapa

Not only famous for its majestic natural scenery, but Sapa also has a unique cuisine, which is bold flavors of the Northwest mountains area. Here are the dishes you cannot ignore when coming to Sapa.

1. Bamboo-tube rice

After grilling, splitting the burnt bamboo outside, leaving a thin layer of bamboo, and enjoy. Bamboo-tube rice (Com Lam) is popular and loved thanks to the richness of the sticky rice, and the soft fragrance of bamboo.

Address: 

• Along Cau May Street

2. Barbecue 

Referring to Sapa, you cannot help mention barbecue here. Sapa barbecue is diverse with pork skewers, whole pieces of bacon, chicken wings, quails, hearts, beef rolls with cats, and mushrooms. All you have to do is take a plate, choose the skewers you like, and wait for the owner to grill them on charcoal.

• Hoang Luc Xoi Restaurant – Ngu Chi Son Road
• Hoang Lien Restaurant – 4 Hoang Lien Road
• Mrs. Lich’s Restaurant – 1 Fansipan

3. Salmon hotpot

Coming to Sapa without enjoying the salmon hotpot, it is indeed deplorable. Unlike imported salmon, salmon in Sapa has a sweet taste, each piece of fish is firm, fresh, beautiful orange-pink color combined with sour bamboo shoots, pumpkin buds, and banana flowers create a delicious hotpot dish. In addition to hotpot, salmon can also be processed into grilled dishes, salads, curries. Besides, you can also try dishes made from sturgeon.

• Hoa Phuong Restaurant – Tier Union Street, group 7C, Ham Rong
• A Phu Restaurant – 15 Fansipan Street
• Hoa Dao – 48 Le Van Tam Street
• Thac Bac Restaurant – Thac Bac

4. Dried meat 

Meat of buffaloes, cows, horses, and pigs are usually hung on the kitchen floor by the Mong people for drying. Buffalos and cows are sliced along longitudinally into pieces of about 2 – 3kg threaded up and hung on the kitchen floor to serve as reserve food. These meats, when hanging up in the kitchen, will dry and leave for years. When eating, scrub the soot and dust, then fry it with tomatoes, bamboo shoots. The meat is fragrant and fleshy.

• Viet’s Farm – 26 Dong Loi Street
• Sapa Night Market – Dien Bien Phu Street

5. Lon Cap Nach

Lon Cap Nach is a specialty of Sapa. The name “ stolen armpit” stems from the local people carrying black armpits to seal at the markets. Pigs are left to roam freely and feed on the mountain slopes, so the meat is fragrant. The stolen armpit is very famous in Sapa and used for processing many special dishes. Its price is about 100.000 – 200.000 VND/kg. They are sold at markets in Sapa to serve tourists.

• Dung Trau Restaurant – 85 Street
• Gerbera Restaurant – 29 Cau May Street

6. Thang Co

Thang Co is one of the specialties of the Mong people, which is made mainly from horse organs. A pot of brakes consists of meat, heart, liver, heart, horse blood, and 12 spices: cardamom, cinnamon, lemongrass, ginger, and many other heirloom spices.

Thang Co often served with vegetables dipped in mustard greens, kohlrabi, and cabbage. Eating Thang Co must be accompanied by drinking warm, aromatic corn wine.

• Anh Quynh Restaurant, 15 Thach Son Street

7. Sapa Fish

Sapa stream fish fried or grilled are also must-try dishes. Stream fishes are about 2-3 fingers long, often blue. Especially, Sapa stream fish has no fishy taste. The fish is fleshy, aromatic, and sweet, and the bones are crispy.

• Grilled stream fish restaurant – 15 Fansipan Street
• Delicious fish restaurant – 29 Cau May Street
• Chapa Restaurant – 40 Cau May Street

Festivals in Sapa

Sapa has six ethnic groups living together: Kinh, H’Mong, Red Dao, Tay, Giay, and Xa Pho. Each ethnic group has its unique cultural features, so it’s formed many unique traditional festivals in Sapa.

1. Roong Pooc Festival

Every year in January of the lunar calendar, the Giay people in Ta Van village organize Roong Pooc festival to pray for good harvest crops, favorable rain, and wind. Although still a traditional ethnic festival of the Giay people, in recent years, it has become a typical festival of the whole Muong Hoa valley. Besides the unique rituals, there are many games, dancing, and performing of gong drum and gong drum music in this festival.

2. Nao Cong Festival

Every year in June of the lunar calendar, Mong, Dao, and Giay people gather to worship at a temple in Ta Van village to celebrate Nao Cong. Each family appoints a representative, irrespective of male, female, old, and young. Nao Cong ceremony is held to pray for the blessing of the prosperous people, abundant crops. Also, during the festival, the leader will announce the typical conventions and end with a happy party.

3. Tet Dances Festival

Tet Dances is an important and well-prepared festival of the Dao Ta Van people, usually held on the 1st or 2nd of the Lunar New Year. The main content of the ceremony is to pray for the peaceful and prosperous people. The ritual activities during the Tet Holiday are very special.

4. Village sweeping ceremony of the Xa Pho

Every year, the Xa Pho people hold a sweeping village ceremony in February of the lunar calendar with the purpose of keeping people happy in the new year, good crops and healthy animals. During the sweeping village ceremony, each person contributes goats, pigs, chickens, and rice to make offerings to ghosts, worshiping masters. Villagers draw on their faces and dance to pray for peace. At the end of the ceremony, everyone enjoyed eating and drinking together. All food that is offered to the ghosts must not be brought into the village.

5. Gau Tao Festival of Mong people

The festival opens only for two purposes: to pray for a baby or to for health. One who does not have a child will make a ceremony to ask the fortune teller to open the Gau Tao festival to pray for him. Another who often got sick or have weak children, even had children died, crops, and animals gradually faded, he also asked a fortune teller to ask for the Gau Tao festival. The festival is also usually held at the beginning of the year.

6. Xuong Dong Festival of Sapa

The festival in the early spring of the Tay and Dao people in Ban Ho commune (Sapa) opens on the morning of the 8th day of Tet every year. The ceremony starts with soil and water procession, and then the worshiping ceremony with spirits. The festival starts with the unique dances and folk performances of the Tay and the Dao.

But the most outstanding, the funniest part is the show when the trumpet sound rang for the Tay girls to start the show with graceful biting moves. When the show ends, everyone goes to the game area. The games here are mostly folk games such as throwing longer, pushing sticks, spinning, hitting balls, blindfold, and catching.

7. Sapa Love market

Sapa Love Market takes place regularly every Saturday night with many special activities. Love Market is a dating place, expressing the feeling of lovers.

At Sa Pa love market, young men and women in villages in the Northwestern region will come here to meet, talk, and participate in many extremely bustling activities such as blowing aloes, singing love songs, etc. After this night market, many couples have become closer; even some of them become husband and wife. Coming to Sapa on the weekend, visitors should not miss this unique love market!

Above are the detailed Sapa travel guide. Hopefully, with this guide, you will have a memorable trip to this beautiful town!

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Mui ne, phan thiet, ha long bay.

Sapa Travel Guide: What to do in Sa Pa, Vietnam

Posted on Last updated: October 30, 2023

Looking for the best things to do in Sapa, Vietnam? You’ve come to the right place!

Sa Pa, often written as Sapa, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam, and it’s easy to see why! With its terraced rice fields, towering mountains and sweeping views, it’s a truly stunning place.

In this Sapa travel guide I have tried to include everything you need to know to have a great time in Sa Pa. Including what to do, where to stay, the best tours to join, where to eat, how to get around Sapa and more!

We spent three nights in Sapa as part of a wider Vietnam itinerary, and we really enjoyed our time there. The mixture of traditional villages, stunning views and unique terraced rice fields makes it really interesting.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and plan what to do in Sa Pa, Vietnam!

• 1.1 How to get to Sapa
• 1.2 Where to stay in Sapa, Vietnam
• 1.3 Best tours in Sapa, Vietnam 
• 1.4 How to get around Sa Pa
• 1.5 How many days do you need in Sapa?
• 1.6 Best time of year to visit Sapa, Vietnam?
• 2.1 Ride the Cable Car to Mount Fansipan
• 2.2 Explore Cat Cat Village
• 2.3 Go hiking
• 2.4 Buy some local handicrafts
• 2.5 Hike up to Fan Si Pan Peak
• 2.6 Admire the views from the Glass Bridge in Sapa
• 2.7 Drive along Ô Quy Hồ Pass (Đèo Ô Quý Hồ)
• 2.8 Admire Silver Waterfall & Love Waterfall
• 2.9 Explore the Terraced Rice Fields 
• 2.10 Wander around the center of Sapa town

Enjoying the views over the terraced rice fields of Sapa, Vietnam, during our guided hike

Key things to know before visiting Sapa 

Before we dive into the best things to do in Sa Pa, Vietnam, I wanted to give you an overview of the logistics information that you will need to plan your trip.

These are all the useful things to know like how to get to Sapa, where to stay, how to get around and more!

How to get to Sapa

Sapa is located in the north of Vietnam, close to the border with China. It’s pretty far, and the journey is quite long, regardless of the travel method you choose.

You can travel to Sapa by bus, train or private taxi. The buses and trains both offer overnight sleeper options, as it’s a 5+ hour journey. A private taxi is obviously the most comfortable, although it can get quite pricey.

There are many options for train and bus tickets, ranging from basic to luxury.

We took the VIP overnight bus to Sapa from Ninh Binh for around 500,000 VND per person, and then the basic day bus from Sapa back to Hanoi for around 300,000 VND per person.

Travelling from Ninh Binh to Sapa in a sleeper pod in the VIP night bus

Needless to say the VIP bus was much more comfortable, but you don’t rely on getting much sleep.

The roads are bumpy, they drive like crazy and you will arrive in Sapa around 5AM, where you then have to decide whether to pay for early check-in at your hotel or just wander aimlessly around town with your bags while you wait for normal check-in hour.

We booked all our transfers in person at our hotels or home stays, but you can also book them online beforehand if you want to ensure you have it booked before you travel.

Overall, getting to Sapa was a bit of a journey, but it was definitely worth it. 

The non-VIP bus from Sapa to Hanoi

Where to stay in Sapa, Vietnam

Being one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam means that Sa Pa has plenty of accommodation options to offer. Here are some of the best ones for every budget.

Budget: Sapa Rosie House – we stayed at this affordable guest house and it was great option. It’s a little outside the Sapa town centre, but it has a great view over the rice fields and the host is lovely.

Click here to book your stay at Sapa Rosie House!

Mid-range: Laxsik Ecolodge   – this stunning Ecolodge offers beautiful bungalows with rice fields view, as well as a spacious outdoors dining terrace and an infinity swimming pool.

Click here to check out prices & availability at Laxsik Ecolodge!

Luxury: Silk Path Grand Resort & Spa Sapa – if you want to treat yourself, this luxury hotel is the place to do so. With its fine interior design, huge swimming pool and great position, it’s the perfect place to relax after a long day hiking and exploring Sapa!

Click here to book your stay at Silk Path Grand Resort & Spa in Sapa!

Our bungalow and view from Sapa Rosie Home Stay in Vietnam

Best tours in Sapa, Vietnam 

Here are some great tours that you can join in Sapa, which will make your experience all the more magical.

Sa Pa: Muong Hoa Valley Trek and Local Ethnic Villages Tour  – this isn’t the exact guided hike we did in Sapa, but it’s very similar. A local guide will take you hiking through the iconic terraced rice fields of Sapa and to discover local villages you wouldn’t be able to see without a guide.

Click here to book your guided hike in Sapa with local village tour!

From Hanoi: 2-Day Sa Pa Ethnic Homestay Tour with Trekking  – if you want to have your whole Sapa trip organised, from transfers to accommodation and activities, this tour starting in Hanoi is a great option.

Sa Pa: Private Guided Tour on a Motorbike with Lunch  – if you don’t feel comfortable driving a motorbike yourself, this tour is a great option that still allows you to experience Sapa’s more adventurous side.

Admiring the views from Fansipan Peak in Sapa, Vietnam

How to get around Sa Pa

Getting around Sapa is relatively easy and affordable. During my trip, I found that the best way to get around is to hire a motorbike or take a taxi.

Walking is also an option, but some destinations can be quite far apart, so be prepared for some exercise. If you’re comfortable with riding a motorbike, then renting one is the best way to explore the area at your own pace.

Prices vary depending on the type of bike, but you can usually expect to pay around 120,000 VND (5 USD) per day.

They didn’t ask us for it, but make sure you have an international driving license, and always wear a helmet.

Exploring Cat Cat Village in Sapa, Vietnam

The iconic terraced rice fields of Sapa, Vietnam

Taxis are also widely available in Sapa. You can either hail one down on the street or use ride-hailing apps such as Grab or Be.

Taxi prices are generally quite affordable, with most rides within Sapa town costing around 50,000 VND (2 USD).

For those who prefer a more eco-friendly mode of transportation, there are also bicycles available for rent. Prices start at around 50,000 VND (2 USD) per day, and it’s a great way to see the beautiful rice terraces up close.

No matter how you choose to get around, Sapa offers a wide variety of options that cater to all travel styles and budgets. So don’t be afraid to explore and discover all the hidden gems this beautiful town has to offer.

Exploring the town centre in Sa Pa, Vietnam

How many days do you need in Sapa?

If you’re planning on visiting Sapa during your Vietnam itinerary, you might be wondering how many days you need to fully explore this beautiful region. 

I would recommend staying at least 2-3 days in Sapa. This will give you enough time to visit some of the must-see attractions without feeling too rushed, plus getting off the beaten track to some lesser known spots.

It also depends on your arrival and departure times in Sapa, but generally speaking if you spend at least 2-3 full days in Sa Pa you will have enough time to visit Cat Cat Village, take the cable car to the top of Fansipan Mountain, go on a hike amongst the rice fields and explore the Sapa town centre. 

Of course, if you have more time, you could easily spend a week or more exploring the region and getting to know the local culture.

Many travellers do multi-day hikes in Sa Pa , which obviously requires more time than the 2-3 days I suggested. Just remember to pack some warm clothes, as it can get chilly in the mountains!

The beautiful terraced rice fields and mountain views of Sa Pa in Vietnam, Asia

Best time of year to visit Sapa, Vietnam?

They say that Sapa is gorgeous no matter what time of year you visit. However, some times of year are definitely better than others.

If you’re looking for sunny and dry weather, then the best time to visit Sapa is from September to November (Autumn).

During these months, the weather is cool and dry (with temperatures ranging from 15 – 25°C), making it perfect for trekking and exploring the beautiful surrounding mountains and terraced rice fields.

If you’re a fan of greenery and lush vegetation, then you should plan your trip to Sapa from March to May (Spring).

During this time, the spring rains keep the region well-watered, making the rice terraces and the valleys absolutely stunning.

There are also lots of flowers blooming everywhere, making for some incredible photos. It is still chilly during this season though, and the average temperature ranges from 15-20°C.

Local women at Cat Cat Village working on traditional handicrafts in Sapa, Vietnam

I wouldn’t visit Sapa from June to August, as its the rainy season in Sapa.

They say the frequent rain makes the mountains and valleys come alive with fresh greenery and colorful flowers, and that you will be able to see the waterfalls in their full power.

However if it’s pouring rain the whole time you’re there, how many outdoors activities can you really do?

Another period I would avoid are the winter months, December to February. Some people like it as they say this is when you can experience Sapa’s dreamy foggy landscapes.

The mist may create an otherworldly view, but as I quickly discovered in Ninh Binh, a clear blue sky always makes places look better than a dark grey one (even if it might look dreamy and foggy in photos).

So, there you have it – the best time to visit Sapa depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. Just don’t forget to bring travel insurance and pack accordingly for the weather!

The stunning temple and view at the top of Fansipan Mountain Peak in Sapa, Vietnam

Walking down the streets of Cat Cat Village in Sapa, Vietnam

Best things to do in Sapa

Ride the cable car to mount fansipan.

If you’re anything like me and love breathtaking views, then I cannot recommend enough taking a ride on the cable car up to the tallest mountain in Vietnam – Fansipan!

The cable car is a modern and efficient way to get up to the top of the mountain, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountain range and terraced rice fields.

Located in Sapa, the cable car journey starts from Sapa town and takes you to the top of Fansipan mountain in about 20 minutes.

The views are truly spectacular and give you a great sense of the scale of the mountain and the surrounding valley. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world!

Skip the line and book your Fansipan Cable Car ticket online beforehand!

Looking down from the peak of Fansipan mountain to the giant Buddha and surrounding mountain peaks

The temple at the top of Fansipan Peak in Sa Pa, Vietnam

The Fansipan cable car is open from 7:30am to 4:30pm and costs around 700,000 VND for a roundtrip ticket.

That might sound like a lot, especially when compared to average prices in Vietnam, but trust me, it’s worth every penny.

Plus, the cable car is a smooth and comfortable ride, so sit back and relax as you soar above the stunning landscapes of Sapa. Plus, once you make it to the top, you can expect more than just a viewpoint.

From the spot where the cable car arrives to the actual 3,147 metre peak of Fansipan there is still a little bit of a stretch. You have to walk around 20-30 minutes to reach it, passing by beautiful temples, pagodas and statues.

Fansipan mountain is an important cultural and spiritual site for many ethnic minorities in the region, such as the Hmong people.

View over the rice fields of Sapa from the cable car to Fansipan Peak, Vietnam

The mountain has historically been climbed for ceremonial purposes and pilgrimages, but with the addition of the cable car in recent years, more and more tourists are able to experience the majesty of Fansipan mountain.

If you’re hesitant about heights or the cost, I can assure you that this is an activity you won’t regret. The views are simply breathtaking and provide a unique perspective of Sapa and the surrounding Northern Vietnam region.

Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments!

Overall, taking the cable car up to Fansipan mountain was one of the highlights of my trip to Sapa. The stunning views, cultural significance, and smooth ride all made for an unforgettable experience.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Sapa, be sure to add a ride on the Fansipan cable car to your itinerary!

Click here to book the entrance ticket to Fansipan cable car , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

The peak of Fansipan mountain at 3,143 metres in Sapa, Vietnam

The stunning views from Fansipan Peak in Sapa, Vietnam

Explore Cat Cat Village

I was a bit wary of visiting Cat Cat Village, as I’d heard very different feedback about it.

There are those who regard it as a lovely little gem of a town, steeped in traditional culture, and others who just see it as a tourist attraction and trap.

My experience sits somewhere in between those.

As an ethnic Hmong village dating back to the late 1980s, Cat Cat Village is supposedly steeped in history and culture.

However, there’s no denying that it has taken quite a touristy turn in recent years, with many locals adapting to sell souvenirs for tourists.

Cat Cat Village and its waterfall in Sa Pa, Vietnam

When I arrived, I was immediately struck by the beautiful traditional costumes worn by locals and tourists alike, adorned with bright and intricate patterns.

Add to it that Cat Cat Village is located in a breathtakingly beautiful setting, surrounded by lush green mountains, bamboo forests, terraced rice fields and a waterfall, and it all makes for a very picturesque experience.

As you wander through the village you will find a wide range of traditional handicrafts on offer.

From embroidery to weaving, silverwork to lacquerware, there is a wide variety of products being created on-site by skilled artisans.

Exploring Cat Cat Village in Sa Pa, Vietnam

Entrance to the village costs 70,000 VND (around 3 USD), and it’s open every day from 9 AM to 6 PM. Guided tours are available, but I don’t think it’s essential.

I found that exploring at my own pace allowed me to really take in the sights and sounds of the village.

You can easily spend a few hours wandering around the village and its surroundings, checking out the local handicraft stalls, tasting some local dishes and just generally enjoying the atmosphere.

Is it a tourist attraction? Yes. Is it a pretty place to visit in Sapa? Also yes. There are probably more authentic villages that you can visit in Sapa, but I still found my visit to Cat Cat Village interesting.

The picturesque streets of Cat Cat Village in Sapa, Vietnam

One of the best ways to fully experience the stunning views of Sapa is by going on a hike. And let me tell you, it’s definitely worth the effort! 

There are several hiking trails to choose from, ranging from beginner to advanced levels of difficulty, as well as day hikes or multi-day hikes that usually involve overnight stays in Vietnamese home stays.

We did the Lao Chai – Ta Van trail, which offered stunning views over the rice fields and mountains, as well as a beautiful glimpse into the everyday life of the locals.

We did our hike with a local guide, organised through our home stay, and it was pretty interesting to see what life is like in authentic local villages, as opposed to slightly more touristy ones like Cat Cat Village.

Click here to book your guided hike of Sapa rice fields & local villages , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

View over the rice fields and local villages during our guided Sapa hike

The hike took us through rice fields, past waterfalls and over suspension bridges.

We even had the opportunity to visit a local home, where we were introduced to how handicraft products were made and traditional farming techniques.

It was a very interesting and unique experience, which gave an insight into local life that we wouldn’t have been able to have without a guide. 

As for prices, it’s completely up to you!

Hiking amongst the rice fields of Sapa with our local guide

You could go for a wander along the main road, taking in the views over the terraced rice fields by yourself, but you would miss out on all the interesting insights that a local guide can give you.

Plus, many parts of the trail we did were through rice fields and unmarked, not the kind of route you would follow if you didn’t know to go there!

Tours range from 300,000 to 700,000 VND (around 13 to 30 USD), and in our case also included lunch. Keep in mind that prices may vary based on the difficulty of the trail and the length of the hike.

Overall, I highly recommend going on a guided hike in Sapa. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area, and to get a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the local people.

Plus, the exercise will make you feel amazing!

Don’t miss out, book your guided hike in Sa Pa here!

The unique terraced rice fields of Sapa, Vietnam

Buy some local handicrafts

One of the best things to do in Sapa is definitely shopping for local handicrafts. The town is full of shops and stalls selling handmade items made by the local families and ethnic group of the region, such as the Hmong and Red Dao.

One of my favourite places to browse was the Sapa Local Market, located in the town center.

Here, you can find a wide variety of goods including colorful fabrics, intricately embroidered clothing, handwoven baskets, and hand-carved wooden items. It’s a great spot to pick up unique souvenirs to take back home with you.

Like most markets in South East Asia, there is a fair bit of haggling and bargaining going on.

Personally I’m not very good at it, and often end up paying the full price they ask for, but if you’re a good haggler you can definitely get away with spending less.

It’s important to note that many of the handicrafts available in Sapa are not just decorative pieces, but they also support the livelihoods of the local people and their families.

By purchasing a handmade item, you’re not only taking home a unique souvenir, but you’re also supporting the culture and traditions of the ethnic minority groups in northern Vietnam.

Hike up to Fan Si Pan Peak

I’ve already mentioned taking the cable car to Mount Fansipan, but did you know you can also hike up to this stunning peak? Hiking Fan Si Pan is considered a memorable experience in Sapa.

As the tallest mountain in Indochina, Fan Si Pan stands tall at 3,143 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

If you’re a fan of hiking and stunning views, then hiking Fan Si Pan should definitely be on your bucket list when visiting Sapa, Vietnam.

It’s recommended to book a guided tour for this hike, as the trails can be challenging and the weather can change quickly.

The giant Buddha statue at the top of Fansipan Mountain Peak in Sapa, Vietnam

You can either hike up overnight, and reach Mount Fansipan in time to see the sunrise, or spread out the hike across different days, with overnight stays in homestays and villages along the way.

The entrance fee for hiking Fan Si Pan is around 70,000 VND (around $3 USD) per person, and the guided tour prices vary depending on the length of the tour and the number of people in the group. 

If you decide to hike Fan Si Pan, it’s important to bring proper hiking gear and clothing, as well as insect repellent and sunscreen.

The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for rain or sudden drops in temperature. Here are some options for guided hikes up to Fansipan Mountain Peak:

One Day Conquering Fansipan – The Roof of Indochina

2-Day Fansipan Mountain Trek – Indochina’s Highest Peak

Mountain views from the cable car to Fansipan Mountain Peak in Sapa, Vietnam

The beautiful temples and mountain views at Fansipan Peak in Sa Pa, Vietnam

Admire the views from the Glass Bridge in Sapa

We didn’t go to the Glass Bottom Bridge in Sapa as I’m a bit scared of heights, but there’s no denying that experiencing the stunning views from this unique spot must be quite the experience!

Located in the Hoàng Liên Son mountain range, the bridge hangs over a deep valley, offering incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

The glass bottom adds an intense element of excitement, as you are essentially walking on air – or at least it feels that way!

The glass bridge is around a 30-minute scooter drive from Sapa, and you can enjoy some pretty beautiful views on the drive over.

Along the way you will find a few waterfalls and viewpoints that you can stop at to break up the drive.

The Glass Bottomed Bridge is open from 7:30am to 5:30pm. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.

The ticket for the bridge costs around 100,000 VND (4 USD), a small price to pay for such an unforgettable experience.

Stunning mountain views from the top of Fansipan Peak in Sa Pa, Vietnam

View over Sapa Valley and its terraced rice fields from the Fansipan Peak cable car in Vietnam, Asia

Drive along Ô Quy Hồ Pass (Đèo Ô Quý Hồ)

This is the mountain road that connects Sapa to the glass bottom bridge, so if you plan on doing the above mentioned activity, you will already be ticking off this bucket list experience too.

Driving along the Ô Quy Hồ Pass is truly a breathtaking activity. Located about 50 kilometers away from Sapa town, it is one of the highest mountain passes in Vietnam.

As we ascended the winding road, I couldn’t help but feel a rush of adrenaline mixed with awe as I looked out at the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, terraced rice fields and valleys.

The beauty of this landscape is truly something that needs to be experienced in person.

Some of the rice fields and mountain views that you can enjoy while driving the Ô Quy Hồ Pass in Sapa, Vietnam

I was a bit wary going into Ô Quy Hồ Pass, as I’d read online that the road was quite scary, but I was actually very pleasantly surprised.

Yes the road is very winding, it can be narrow in certain points as well as steep, but we found it to be well paved and in better condition than most roads in Vietnam.

If you don’t want to drive yourself, there are also motorbike tours available in Sapa that will take you along the pass.

Prices for the tour vary depending on the length and activities included, but generally start at around 800,000 VND (35 USD) per person.

It’s important to note that the pass can be closed during the rainy season due to safety concerns, so be sure to check the weather as well as any travel advisories before embarking on the journey.

Click here to book your private motorbike tour in Sapa , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Wandering through the cute streets of Cat Cat Village in Sapa, Vietnam

Admire Silver Waterfall & Love Waterfall

On the drive from Sa Pa city center to the Glass Bridge, there are a few more attractions beyond the scenery and view of Ô Quy Hồ Pass.

Along the way you’ll find two famous waterfalls; Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall.

Silver Waterfall is partly visible from the road, although you will have to pay a small 20,000 VND fee if you want to get up close to the waterfall to see it properly.

To see Love Waterfall instead you will have to do a short 45-minute hike. We didn’t have time to do the hike, but I’ve heard the route is super scenic and the hike is beautiful to see, especially during the rainy season.

The giant Buddha at the top of Fansipan Peak Mountain in Sapa, Vietnam

The terraced rice fields and valley surrounding Cat Cat Village in Sapa, Vietnam

Explore the Terraced Rice Fields 

One of the highlights of my time in Sapa was exploring the stunning terraced rice fields. These fields are a must-see for anyone visiting northern Vietnam, and I was blown away by their beauty.

The terraced rice fields were initially created by the Hmong people, who have lived in the mountains of northern Vietnam for centuries.

They built these fields by hand, carving out the hillsides and creating a series of flat, stepped terraces. Today, the fields remain an integral part of the local economy, as rice is still a staple crop in the region.

We explored the rice paddies as part of our guided hike with a local tour guide. My guide was incredibly knowledgeable about the history of the fields and the local culture.

As we walked she shared stories about the Hmong people and their traditional way of life. I learned about the various stages of rice cultivation, and how it impacts the lives of the locals.

It was fascinating to see the rice fields up close and to gain a deeper appreciation for the hard work that goes into growing rice.

View over the terraced rice fields of Sapa, Vietnam

Wander around the center of Sapa town

Sapa has a lively town centre, where you can find shops, bars, restaurants and street food stalls of every kind. Many of the shops and streets are decorated with colourful lanterns and plants.

It can be a bit chaotic, but nothing like the traffic of Hanoi. It’s a nice town centre to wander around for a while, tasting the local cuisine and purchasing local souvenirs.

You will also find plenty of massage parlours. Sa Pa is known as a trekking town, so it’s only natural that so many massage parlours popped up in the area!

After all, after a long day hiking amongst the rice fields, a foot and leg massage is just what you need!

Final thoughts on visiting Sapa, Vietnam

There you have it, the ultimate travel guide to Sa Pa, Vietnam! Have you been to Sapa before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Whether you spell it Sapa or Sa Pa, this unique corner of Vietnam is a must-see on any Vietnam travel bucket list . With its terraced rice fields, towering mountain peaks and traditional villages, it’s a really interesting place to visit.

Especially for people who love hiking, being outdoors and want a taste of traditional Vietnam, it’s a must-see stop on any Vietnam itinerary.

Personally I really enjoyed my time in Sapa (and not only because we finally had some blue skies after a week of grey weather in Ninh Binh and Halong Bay )!

I hope you find my Sapa travel guide useful! If you have any questions on what to do in Sa Pa, Vietnam, just let me know in the comments below!

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SAPA ATTRACTIONS

ATTRACTIONS IN SAPA: THE BEST PROMISING PLACES TO VISIT

Top must-visit attractions in Sapa Vietnam are Fansipan Mountain, Muong Hoa Valley, Cat Cat Village, Silver Waterfall, Bac Ha Market,...

1 - Fansipan mountain - top 11 attractions in Sapa

2 - local villages in sapa, 3 - the charming waterfalls in sapa, 4 - rice terraces - top stunning attractions in sapa vietnam, 5 - tram ton pass - sapa attraction for adventure-holics, 6 - muong hoa valley - top peaceful attractions in sapa, 7 - ham rong mountain, 8 - sapa stone church, 9 - sapa museum, 10 - sapa lake, 11 - bac ha market.

Sapa - a small mountainous town in northern Vietnam , is home to plenty of spectacular landscapes and cultural activities.  The top Sapa attractions you should visit are: 

Fansipan Mountain , ‘The roof of Indochina’, is the highest point of Hoang Lien Son mountain range at the height of 3,143m above sea level. For adventure and nature lovers, conquering Fansipan peak is an extremely worthwhile experience. The Fansipan conquering trip often takes 3-5 days. Hiking the mountain with a porter as a local guide is highly recommended. On the other hand, you can get to the peak by cable car. Cable car ticket: 

- Adult: $30 / round-trip

- Child (from 1-1.5m high): $21.5 / round-trip

From Fansipan peak, you can take a panoramic view of Heaven Gate in Sapa,  admire the spectacular scenery of ‘City in the clouds’ and explore how awe-inspiring nature can be. Mount Fansipan is absolutely one of the best places to visit in Sapa Vietnam.

The Sapa is home to many ethnic minorities in Vietnam such as Hmong , Dzao, Tay, etc. Through many generations, the local people still retain and spread the uniquely traditional and cultural values of their ancestors. These days, along with the fast-paced development of tourism, the ethnic local villages have become extremely nice places for travelers who do love to explore the landscape, the traditional customs & culture as well as the humble but intriguing lifestyles of the locals. Some well-known villages that can’t be missed out on are Cat Cat Village, Sin Chai Village, Ta Van Village, Ta Phin Village, Ta Ho Village.

Cat Cat Village

The Stretch of the road from Sapa Town Center to Cat Cat Village is about 2km and it lies right below Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range. This famous village is home to the H’Mong people in Sapa. Walking around Cat Cat Village, you can admire the stunning landscapes and have a better experience of the customs of the H'Mong ethnic community.

Sin Chai Village

Located in the north of Sapa, Sin Chai Village is about 4km from the center of Sapa Town. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, this village is a great place for enjoying a fresh atmosphere and immersing in the beauty of sunrise and sunset. 

Ta Van Village

Ta Van village is located at the bottom of the mountain of Muong Hoa Valley. To reach this attraction in Sapa, you need to cross a 10km-trail winding through a hill. However hard it can be, Ta Van will definitely treat you well with green rice terraces or the golden ripeness during the harvest time. A picture of the industrious local peasants must be an unrivaled memory for you guys.

Ta Phin village

Source: Kyle Petzer

What’s more, you can stand a chance to learn more about the lifestyle, tradition, and customs of the locals there. The cuisine is a highlight in Ta Phin, so don’t forget to try some specialties such as hand-carried pig meat, chicken soup with bamboo shoots, and heal yourself with Red Dao herbal bathing.

With a distance of 30km to the southwest of Sapa town center, Ho Village is one of the most well-known attractions in Sapa Vietnam for its winding roads, majestic waterfalls, and undulating hills. This is also home to many famous beautiful homestays that are suitable for tourists to experience the life of Sapa people in the most authentic way.

Visiting waterfalls in Sapa is an unmissable experience. Bac waterfall and Tinh waterfall should be on your top list for sure.

Silver waterfall

Located about 10km from Sapa town center , Silver Waterfall is one of the most long-standing waterfalls in Sapa. The 200m-height waterfall originates from the Muong Hoa stream. It flows fiercely toward the bottom from the top of the mountain creating a picturesque scenery with the white strips of water. 

This place to visit in Sapa Vietnam can make you say wow with its majestic beauty. The water strips flow along the rocky cliff in a zigzag shape and pour into a small lake making the impressive and fresh white foam. 

Ticket fee: 15,000 VND/person ($0.64)

Love waterfall

Love Waterfall is 2km from Silver Waterfall and it is named as one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Vietnam . To reach it, you need to walk along Vang Stream. Green trees on both sides and the fresh air all year round are like an ornament for the waterfall. The first impression you can get immediately is that the waterfall is like a thin, light white curtain hanging between the cliffs.

Ticket price: 70,000 VND/person ($3), including ticket fee for nearby sites such as Vang Stream, Tram Ton Pass

Visiting the terraced rice fields in harvest time (from late September to early October) is a top choice of many wanderlusters for admiring the splendor of natural scenery when dressed in a golden coat.

Source: VnExpress

When you walk along the rice terraces, a sense of relief will surround you thanks to the aroma of ripe rice blending into the wind. Also, the laughter of the local peasants will give you a newfound appreciation for our life. That’s why for some people, such a peaceful terraced rice field is the most wonderful treasure. 

It takes you about 35 minutes to travel by motorbike through the distance of 17,5km along the 4D National highway from Sapa Town to Tram Ton Pass (also known as O Quy Ho pass). Travel time is about 35 - 45 minutes. Motorbike rental fee ranges from 150,000 - 200,000 VND/day ($6.46 - 8.26). Some motorbike rental shops in Sapa:

Hoc Ly motorbike rental: 

- No.8 Hoang Lien Son street, Sapa town 

- Contact: +84 915 190 874.

Tam Tran Sapa:

- No.10 Hoang Lien Son street, Sapa town 

- Contact: +84 974 473 740

Mr. Chinh’s motorbike rental: 

- No.44 Fansipan street, Sapa town 

- Contact: +84 988 628 515

The 4D National highway is not an easy-riding road, you are highly recommended to take a taxi for more convenience and safety to get to this attraction in Sapa. 

By taxi, total travel time is about 20 minutes/ way, traveling cost is from 150,000 - 200,000 VND / way ($6.46 - 8.26). Some local taxi brands:

- Mai Linh Taxi +84 214 3 833 388

- Hung Vuong Taxi +84 214 3 855 855

- Huu Nghi Taxi +84 3 834 834

Tram Ton is one of the highest passes in Vietnam. Viewed from high above, it’s like a rope tied up in the middle of the mountain by a skillful artisan. The winding roads and the unspoiled natural landscapes on both sides of the road will definitely entertain you.

Located in Muong Hoa commune, Muong Hoa Valley is about 10km to the southeast of Sapa town center. To get there, you need to go across the high mountains and winding roads. But right after that, you will be amazed by the picturesque scenery. The stacked rice terraces, ancient stone fields with different shapes, or the monastic houses owned by the honest locals will leave you an indelible experience.

As a part of the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range, Ham Rong Mountain is about 3km from Sapa Town. This mountain was named Ham Rong because of its shape similar to the jaw of the majestic Dragon God. Located at an altitude of 1900 m above sea level, Ham Rong Mountain is one of the most ideal places to go in Sapa to admire all the magnificence that nature has bestowed on the place

Source: Internet

Built in 1935 by a French architect, Sapa Stone Church has a total area of up to 6000 square meters located right behind Ham Rong Mountain. The design of Sapa Stone Churches is inspired by Roman Gothic style with 7 compartments, each compartment has an area of up to 500 square meters and a 20-meter-high bell tower. Behind a large yard is a chapel with 32 stained-glass windows. The whole church is built of hewn stone and linked by sand, lime and molasses. If you visit here on Saturday, you can join the love market and witness the unique traditional culture of the local people.

This Sapa tourist attraction is a storage of objects and artifacts of the locals through different historical periods. Until now, the museum has displayed 200 samples of documents, pictures, and lots of ancient artifacts such as pottery, carpets, wooden statues. Everything becomes more lively under the shimmering golden light. No entrance fee is required and it opens every day including Saturday and Sunday.

Sapa lake is one of the most well-known spots in Sapa, especially during the summer. You can take a relaxing stroll, watch the willow, and feel how fresh the air is. This is also a popular venue for organizing cultural events such as firework festivals on the occasion of the Tet Lunar New Year .

This is one of the best places to visit in Sapa, Vietnam for a deep insight into local culture & daily activities of ethnic minorities in remote regions of Vietnam. Located about 115km to the south of Sapa town, Bac Ha market  is one of the most famous and busiest local fair markets in Sapa where you can immerse in the brilliant colors of traditional costume, brocade woven fabric, enjoy the flavorful & tasty dishes such Thắng Cố (stewed horse meat & offals), five colors sticky rice, grilled pork and so on. The sound and vibe of smile, joy, and happiness on the face of local people can make your day. 

Above is the list of the must-visit attractions in Sapa Vietnam. It is obvious that there is a wide range of places to visit in Sapa which can bring you great memories. 

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10 amazing things to do in sapa – full guide 2024.

Table of Contents

In this article we are going to share the best things to do in Sapa in 2024. Sapa is a beautiful town located in the north of Vietnam around 300 km northwest of Hanoi. Sapa has a well-earned reputation for stunning scenery, amazing trekking and epic food.

We absolutely loved our time in Sapa. There is so much to see and do in the area and prices are very reasonable. We loved the local culture, particularly the opportunity to learn about traditional H’mong culture. There are some amazing homestays in the area and plenty of incredible trekking. People in Sapa are warm, welcoming and friendly.

In this article we are going to share the absolute best things to do in the area, where to do them, how to organize your trip and how much activities cost. We will tell you everything you need to know to plan your own independent adventure and NOT miss a thing. 

You may also be interested in out ULTIMATE 10 day Vietnam itinerary . Don’t miss a thing with this step by step guide. AND don’t make these mistakes in Vietnam – READ our genius Vietnam travel tips for an amazing trip

Summary of the BEST things to do in Sapa 

• Go trekking with a local guide
• Stay at an amazing homestay
• Visit a waterfall
• Walk around the lake
• Visit the incredible Fanispan
• Visit Cat Cat village
• Learn about H’mong culture
• But some local craft
• Try the local food
• Stay in a luxury hotel

Map of some of the best things to do in Sapa  

What is the best way to get around in Sapa?

If you are staying in sapa town it is possible to walk from place to place because the town is relatively small. However, if you’re planning to visit some of the attractions outside Sapa,  we recommend using a taxi.  Unfortunately the taxi apps do not work around this area. Therefore, you will need to flag the taxi it at the side of the road and agree on the price. A short journey close to Sapa should cost around 50,000 – 100,000VND. If you are traveling further expect to pay 200,000 – 300,000VND.

What is the best way to travel to Sapa?

There are several ways to travel from Hanoi to Sapa . The cheapest way to travel to Sapa is to take a bus. This takes around 6 – 7 hours. You can take a night bus or day time bus. The long-distance buses are surprisingly comfortable and you can find sleeper buses with beds. Bus tickets generally cost around 300,000VND – 400,000VND (£10 – £15 or approximately $12 – $18). You can also take comfortable limo vans to Sapa . These vans are a little bit faster and more expensive than the bus. The journey costs 5 – 6 hours and costs around 500,000VND (around £17 or $20). 

Alternatively you can also take the sleeper train to Sapa . Night trains in Vietnam are very comfortable with secure lockable cabins and comfortable beds. You will need to take the train from Hanoi to Lao Cai and then take a minibus to Sapa which takes around 30 minutes. The train from Hanoi to Lao Cai costs around 700,000VND – 1,000,000VND (£25 – £35 or around $30 – $40).

A few sights in Sapa town

Here are a few things to see in town. The main lake is a very beautiful spot – there are paths all of the way around the lake and very beautiful views. Sapa square and the stone church are also popular attractions in town. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes around town too. 

1 Go trekking with a local guide

Don’t miss our FULL guide on trekking in Sapa

One of the best things to do in Sapa is go trekking with a local guide. There are many ways to organize trips. You can pre-book a trek online in advance. Alternatively, you can book trekking adventures with a local tour operator. If you are feeling intrepid and adventurous why not just turn up in Sapa and organize a trek directly with a local guide? Furthermore, it is possible to do single day treks, 2-day 1-night treks or 3-day 2 night treks.

It is likely to cost between £20 – £100 to go trekking in the area depending on the length of the trek and what is included. A single day is likely to cost around £20 if you book in advance. Many pre-booked trips include transport, food and accommodation. Always check exactly what is included before you book. Bring plenty of snacks, water and appropriate footwear. Also make sure you have all of the cash that you need for your trip (there are not any ATM machines outside of Sapa). 

2 Stay at an amazing homestay

Looking to immerse yourself in Culture? Why not stay in one of the dreamy Sapa homestays . This is a perfect way to slow down, disconnect from tech and reconnect with nature. Homestays around Sapa can be quite basic. For example, there may not be WI-Fi or internet access in the area. Bring a warm layer as they can be cold. There are absolutely loads of homestays in the area. Some homestays are located in Sapa town, other homestays are located in the hills around this area.

Homestays in Sapa tend to cost between  £10 – £50 per night, with many properties at the lower end of this range. In general, homestays include comfortable accommodation and breakfast.  Some places may offer additional activities or experiences. Some of the home stays around Sapa actually have outdoor swimming pools. If you are planning to stay in a homestay outside of town, we recommend bringing plenty of cash. There are not any ATMs in the countryside villages around Sapa and many places do not accept card payments.

Here are a few of our favourite homestays: Mintu Home , Tatu homestay , Amica House , Chapa Farmstay and Plum Eco House

3 Visit a waterfall

If you are looking for Intrepid things to do around Sapa, why not visit one of the amazing waterfalls in the area? There are several impressive waterfalls in the hills surrounding Sapa. Here are a few waterfalls you could visit in the area: 

• Nhà hát waterfall located in Cat Cat village 
• Quy Khach waterfall near Giang Ta Chai village
• Love waterfall – impressive cascade

4 Try Vietnamese coffee by the lake

If you are visiting Sapa we highly recommend trying some amazing Vietnamese coffee by the lake. Sapa has a large lake in the middle of the town. There are several small cafes, restaurants and coffee shops located close to the lake. This is a great place to slow down, relax and enjoy a Vietnamese coffee. One of our favorite coffee shops in Sapa is Le Geckgo Cafe.

They serve a tempting selection of drinks and food. On the menu they offer both local dishes and international foods such as pizza, pastas and burgers. The food is very tasty and the portions are generous at this cafe. 

5 Visit the incredible Fanispan

Fanispan is the tallest mountain in the region and towers at an impressive 3,147m (high enough to experience altitude sickness so go steady!) The peak of Fanispan is often veiled in cloud. However, in the right conditions you can see panoramic views over the mountains of north  Vietnam with clouds swirling in the valleys. The trek up Fanispan is is very challenging. If you want to trek we recommend going with a local guide. Alternatively you can use the funicular railways and cable car to reach the summit of Fanispan. The prices are as follows: 

You can purchase tickets at the Sapa Station – located in Sun Plaza, right next to the Sapa Square (Ga Tàu Leo Núi). In total it is likely to cost around 1,000,000VND for an adult to visit Fanispan. The prices are as follows: Muong Hoa Funicular return ticket 99,000VND, cable car return ticket 737,000VND and the Fanispan funicular tickets 100,000VND (one way). 

Keep it simple -You can BOOK your tickets in advance on Klook .

6 Visit Cat Cat village

If you are looking for cultural things to do in Sapa but don’t want to travel too far from town, why not visit Cat Cat Village . Cat Cat Village is located a couple of kilometers southwest of Sapa. This lovely little village has small shops selling art and craft, beautiful home stays, rice paddies and a stunning river located in a small valley. In this area you can enjoy viewpoints, coffee shops, local food and you can even watch cultural performances and learn local games. We recommend allowing at least half a day to visit Cat Cat Village and be prepared for some walking up and down hills. You do need to buy a ticket to visit Cat Cat village. You can buy tickets from the office on arrival. Tickets cost 70,000 VND for adults and 30,000 VND for children. 

7 Learn about H’mong culture

If you are looking for cultural things to do in Sapa make sure that you spend some time learning about the local H’mong culture. This vibrant mountain culture can often be recognised by their bright beautiful clothing. There are different ways to learn about this beautiful mountain culture. You can sample some of their local food, visit the local market or take a guided trek. You can also see local dance and music performances in Cat Cat Village. 

8 Buy some local craft

A great way to support locals in the beautiful part of the world is by art and craft work. You will find many people walking around town selling art, craft and small products like bracelets and jewellery. Most products cost 30,000 – 150,000VND. There are many people selling art, craft and local products in Cat Cat village. 

9 Try the local food

Make sure that you sample some of the local food. Some of the most popular dishes in Sapa include Vietnamese hot pot which is served with noodles, egg, tofu and meat. Hog roast is also a very common and popular dish served in Sapa. Another popular and unique dish in the area is water buffalo, which is sometimes fried with ginger and onions or served as a smoked or dried meat. One of the cheapest local dishes is Pho soup.  This is a mild noodle soup served with garnish, vegetables and meat. 

10 Stay in a luxury hotel 

If you’re looking for relaxing things to do in Sapa why not stay in one of the dreamy luxurious Hotels in Sapa ? Many of these unbelivable places are immersed in lush green rice paddies and surrounded by panoramic mountains – the perfect antithesis between wild and decadent luxury!

It is impressive how far your money can go on hotels in Sapa. There are several very impressive luxurious hotels in the area. These hotels are very stylish, with amazing views, large decadent and luxurious suites and warm heated indoor swimming pools.

They also offer fine dining including local and international cuisine. So if you are looking for a decadent and relaxing experience, the five-star hotels in Sapa provide a peaceful and tranquil environment for you to enjoy this stunning place. Here are a few luxury hotels in Sapa: Hotel De Le Coupole , the Silk Path Grand Resort , KK Sapa hotel , Pao’s Sapa Leisure hotel and Ville De Mont moutain resort .

Where are the best places to stay in Sapa?

There are some very impressive places to stay in Sapa .  Here are some of our top pick home stays, guest houses and hotels in Sapa all of these properties are located in or very close to sapa town. 

1 Sapa Capsule hostel

Looking for an amazing budget option? Check out the Sapa Capsule hostel. This place is well located in the centre of Sapa town, around a 10 minute walk from the lake. The staff are very helpful and friendly with excellent local knowledge. Whether you want to rent a motorbike or find out the latest conditions on mount Fanispan – they can help you make the most of your trip.They even offer spacious two person capsules. Rooms are generally under £10. 

2 Mintu Home

Mintu homestay boasts for of the best views around. This lovely place is located at the south of Sapa town. The walk to town is around 20 – 30 minutes and there are also plenty of taxis around too. Ling and her family run this homestay and welcome guests with warm hospitality. They also include a very good breakfast with a choice of Vietnamese and western food. Rooms are around £20. We strongly recommend booking a room with a mountain view (mountain view rooms may be slightly more expensive but we reckon that it’s worth it!)

3 Sapa Pine Hill Eco Lodge 

Sapa Pine offers amazing rooms and villas. We love the wooden interiors – the perfect aesthetic for the lovely natural surroundings of Sapa. This Eco Lodge is excellently located on a hill to the west of the lake affording breathtaking views and convenient access to town. Sapa Pine is only a 5-10 minute walk from the town square and the lake. Book early to avoid disappointment. Rooms range in price between £30 – £170 

4 Sapa Horizon Hotel

This is probably the most impressive hotel for a combination of luxury and breathtaking views of the mountains. Rooms are excellently designed with large windows allowing plenty of natural light and giving the best panoramic views of the stunning surroundings. The Horizon has terraces and seating areas that create relaxing spaces to enjoy the stunning views here. The Horizon Hotel is only a few minutes walk from the central square and the lake. Rooms generally range between £50 – £150 

5 Hotel De La Coupole

Hotel De La Coupole is one of the most luxurious hotels in Sapa. This hotel has a vibrant eclectic 1900 interior design theme throughout the hotel. There is a heated indoor swimming pool and the food is excellent. Check out the executive King Suite with its rich regal red interiors. Some rooms may include breakfast or dinner – always check what’s included when you book. Hotel De La Coupole is also located in the centre of Sapa town only a few minutes walk from Central Square and the lake. Rooms generally range in price between £100 – £400 per night.

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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Beautiful places in Sapa attract tourists

Sapa is a destination that any travel lover wants to visit. So what does this Northwest land have that make tourists' hearts sob when they remember it like that? Let's immediately discover 32 Sapa tourist destinations that are being checked-in the most today to feel part of that majestic picture.

Tourist places in Sapa are checked-in the most.

1. Sapa tourist destination - Sun World Fansipan Legend

Sun World Fansipan Legend is a Sapa tourist destination , a cultural tourism complex, one of the entertainment venues in Sapa, the Fansipan Sapa cable car service and a world-class resort hotel.

What is the place to play in Sapa? Sun World Fansipan Legend (@bim_cozlyn)

Located on the top of Fansipan, which is famous for the nickname "roof" of Indochina, from Sun World Fansipan Legend, visitors can admire the majestic natural scenery of the Northwest mountains and forests.

Ticket price for mountain train from Muong Hoa to Sapa cable car station: 70,000 VND / ticket in the afternoon, 80,000 VND / ticket in the afternoon. This place is always in the top of the most popular entertainment places in Sapa.

Muong Hoa mountain climbing boat at Sunworld

See more cool Sapa Cafes here.

2. 13 Check-in places not to be missed in Sapa

2.1 cat cat village.

Cat Cat village is located in San Sa Ho commune, only about 2km from the city center, so visitors can travel by motorbike or on foot.

Right on the way to the village, you will be mesmerized by the overwhelming scenery of the mountains. This is a beautiful place in Sapa that makes many tourists want to come back to visit again.  

Where does Sapa go? Cat Cat village is surrounded by Northwest mountains (@nedsdaughter)

This is the place where the H'Mong ethnic people live, visitors can rent ethnic clothes to blend in with the scenery, explore craft villages, waterfalls, streams,... as well as people's activities. people here.

Referring to the beautiful places in Sapa, it is indispensable for the poetic stream waterfall in Cat Cat village (Nguyen Phuong).

The latest updated ticket price to visit Cat Cat village:

♦ Adults: 70,000 VND/time

♦ Children: 30,000 VND/time

See more about Sapa Dragon Cloud Bridge - a must-see check-in place for those who like to conquer heights.

2.2 Sapa Rose Valley

Covering an area of up to 50,000m 2 , Sapa rose valley is the place where more than 1 million colorful flowers bloom, creating a poetic scene like in a fairy tale.

Among the tourist attractions in Sapa , the rose valley will be a great choice for tourists who love flowers and love to take pictures. Please add this place to your schedule.

A small corner of the rose valley - a "graceful" Sapa tourist destination for virtual living (Den Duyen)

The garden is located in the Sun World Fansipan Legend campus in hamlet 1, Muong Hoa street of Sapa town, is one of the beautiful places in Sapa that is attracting tourists recently.

In 2020, Vietnam Record recognized as "The largest rose valley in Vietnam"

See more famous Sapa rose gardens , most visited by tourists.

2.3 Sapa Stone Church

Built in 1895, this Sapa tourist destination is the most complete remaining architectural mark from the French period. Located right in the center, visitors can easily visit the ancient Gothic architecture with spiers, bell towers, and domes bearing historical imprints at Sapa stone church.

Front of Sapa Stone Church (Manh Cuong)

Every Saturday, in the square in front of the stone church, there is also a typical love market with many collective activities. Attending these events is also one of the ways for visitors to easily integrate into the local culture.

Among the tourist attractions in Sapa, the Stone Church located in the center of town is relatively easy to visit (@lencytravel)

Do not miss the Sapa Mau Temple - a sacred destination when traveling to the Northwest mountains.

2.3 Ham Rong Mountain

Located right behind the stone church, the shape of Ham Rong Mountain in Sapa looks like a dragon's jaw baring its fangs to the sky from afar.

Here, you can explore many beautiful scenes and strange flowers of Sapa, typically rare orchids. It is one of the beautiful places in Sapa that cannot be missed.

Among the tourist attractions in Sapa, the panorama of Sapa from the top of Ham Rong mountain will surely stay forever in visitors' memories (Huong Chipi)

♦ Children: 20,000 VND/time

Abundant plants in Ham Rong (@phthu_phthu)

2.4 Tien Sa Waterfall

Tien Sa Waterfall is located in Cat Cat village, famous from the legend of the fairy descending to the ceiling to bathe - a Sapa tourist destination that helps you dispel the fatigue of daily life.

The water flows from the Hoang Lien Son range to form white waterfalls that stand out against the surrounding green trees.

Sapa tourist destination: Panoramic view of Tien Sa waterfall (@diepzen)

The majestic and wild beauty of Tien Sa waterfall

2.5 Where does Sapa go? Silver Waterfall is like a giant silk strip

With a height of over 200m, Sapa Silver Waterfall with the water flowing  rumbling down from the ravines, white foam like a giant silver silk, can be seen from afar.

Famous Sapa tourist destinations cannot ignore the majestic waterfalls. These are gifts from mother nature that bestows on us.

When visiting Sapa, don't miss the divine check-in corner at Silver Falls (@vy_mup7)

The height of the falls (@irina.gva)

♦ Location: National Highway 4D, San Sa Ho, Sapa, Lao Cai

♦ Silver Waterfall ticket price: 20,000 VND/person

2.6 Love Waterfall – Golden Stream

Following Silver Waterfall is Sapa Love Waterfall . Although not as magnificent as Silver Waterfall, it has its own romantic character thanks to the clear and calm lake below, so visitors can freely wade through the stream and take pictures.

Tourist places in Sapa: Love Waterfall is more peaceful than other waterfalls (@seq_traveller)

♦ Location: San Sa Ho commune, Sapa district, Lao Cai province, about 14km southwest of Sapa town.

♦ Ticket price: 75,000 VND/person

The lake water here is extremely clean and cool (@quercus_lumina)

2.7 Hoang A Tuong Palace

Next is a Sapa tourist destination for those who like to explore nostalgia. Hoang A Tuong mansion was the most powerful house of Bac Ha town during the French colonial period. Experiencing many ups and downs in the course of history, the massive architecture has been covered with moss, making the ancient features more profound.

A tourist destination in Sapa that brings the majesty of the mansion that remains intact after many generations is Hoang A Tuong's Palace (@slothlion_lc)

♦ Location of Hoang A Tuong Palace: the center of Bac Ha district, Lao Cai province

♦ Ticket price: 20,000 VND/ticket

Ancient architectural lines remain forever at Hoang A Tuong Sapa Residence (@jackyenrens)

2.8 Cloud Bridge Ta Van

Sapa Cloud Bridge is an ancient bridge connected by rattan ropes spanning Muong Hoa stream. If you go early in the morning, there is a fog rolling from the river covering the bridge, you will feel like you are walking on a kingdom of clouds.

With an interesting structure, May Bridge is one of the fun places in Sapa that young people check-in.

With a unique and special structure and way of forming, Cau May Ta Van is very safe (@xxudecem)

However, because the old bridge is made from rattan rope, it looks quite fragile, so it will look a bit warped, but in return you will have the best check-in photos at this Sapa tourist destination . 

Check-in at May Bridge - one of the fun places in Sapa is also an interesting experience to try

2.9 Muong Hoa Valley – Sapa ancient stone beach

If you still haven't decided where to go to Sapa , please add Muong Hoa Sapa valley to the list.

Although the road to Muong Hoa is zigzag, the final rewards are extremely satisfying. Those are the golden terraced fields of Sapa stretching with the same message and the clear streams flowing in the middle of the village.

A clear and relaxing morning in Muong Hoa valley in Sapa (@la.muguets)

In particular, there is also a spiritual relic here is Sapa ancient stone beach with rocks of different shapes and sizes, carved with many images that look both familiar and mysterious.

Ancient stone beach in the morning mist (@plumintran)

2.10 Muong Hoa Stream

Muong Hoa stream is likened to a giant python, reflecting the glittering golden color of the ripe rice season as it weaves through the terraced fields.

Among the tourist attractions in Sapa , the natural scene in the valley like a poetic picture in Muong Hoa is rare.

View from above to the peaceful Muong Hoa valley - a tourist destination in Sapa not to be missed (@khoingn)

Tourist places in Sapa: Muong Hoa valley is beautiful in the ripe rice season

2.11 Ta Phin Ancient Monastery

As a remnant of the French colonial period, this ancient Sapa tourist destination has its own unique beauty. The architecture is full of nostalgia and mystery like being lost in the scenes of old European mythical movies.

Ta Phin ancient monastery with its mysterious features on a rainy day is also a beautiful place in Sapa worth saving on the sightseeing list (@quinn.dino)

2.12 Fansipan Peak

Fansipan is the tourism symbol of Sapa, known as the roof of Indochina with an altitude of 3,143m. Reaching the top, the vast mountain scenery appears in front of visitors.

In tourist sites in Sapa, the image of clouds wrapped around Fansipan peak really brings overwhelming (Anh Dung)

If you go on foggy days, you will have a cloudy sky and floating dew surrounding you, feeling like you are discovering a magical kingdom of clouds.

This is one of the places to play in Sapa that is always on the favorite list of many people.

A memorable landmark at Fansipan peak is also a famous tourist destination in Sapa (@lennywong7)

Visitors can choose to climb the mountain with the group which takes 2-3 days on good weather days or take the cable car which takes only 15 minutes to reach the top of Fansipan.

Fansipan cable car ticket price: 750,000VND/adult, 550,000VND/child from 1m-1.3m tall, free for children under 1m

3. 13 beautiful backpacking places in Sapa

3.1 ta phin village.

Compared with other villages that are somewhat modernized, Ta Phin Sapa village still retains the inherent wildness, imbued with the cultural identity of the H'Mong ethnic people. In particular, bathing with traditional medicine Red Dao bathing is an activity that is very popular with tourists because it is extremely good for health.

Explore Sapa with the beautiful pristine Ta Phin Village (@nhunnekkk_)

♦ Location of Ta Phin village: 17km from Sapa town center

♦ Price to enter the village: 50,000 VND/person

3.2 Ta Van village

Ta Van Sapa village is famous for its Cloud Bridge, which is one of the famous Sapa tourist destinations that people from all over the world come to. Among the Sapa tourist attractions, backpackers always add Ta Van to their list of places to stop.

If you want to fully explore the life and scenery here, do not hesitate to ask the locals to guide you.

The scene is very peaceful in Ta Van (@thuongdinh97)

3.3 Sapa Heaven Gate

Being immersed in the floating clouds mixed with the fanciful morning mist is a feeling that any backpacker wants to conquer. That is why Sapa heaven gate has become an ideal place to hunt clouds and live virtual.

Sapa tourist destination: Beautiful and sparkling Sapa heaven gate (@noonniga)

If you like to travel by motorbike, you should pay attention to driving because the road to Sapa heaven gate has many dangerous twists and turns. However, once set foot here, everyone is fascinated by the immense scenery of clouds and sky.

Sunset at Heaven's Gate (@mi240400)

3.4 O Quy Ho Pass - Sapa tourist destination combined with cloud hunting

Discovering Sapa, it is impossible to ignore the largest, most beautiful and most dangerous pass in Sapa. If you have the opportunity to check-in at this fairy pass, you will have a huge stock of photos posted all the time.

The top of O Quy Ho pass is a beautiful place in Sapa (@villamaxtp)

Not only the enchanting scenery, but the aftertaste of Lam rice served with grilled meat on skewers at restaurants along the way will make you crave forever.

3.5 Sin Chai Village

Sin Chai village is located at the foot of the mountain, as if embraced by the Hoang Lien Son range, creating a very poetic scene in the middle of the wild mountains. Only about 5km from Sapa town, this Sapa tourist destination is increasingly attracting the attention of tourists.

In the top 10 Sapa tourist attractions that are loved by tourists, Sin Chai village with vast terraces always dominates (@luhotrung)

3.6 Lao Chai Village

Lao Chai village is the common roof of many ethnic minorities such as Mong, Red Dao, Giay...

Lao Chai is one of the tourist attractions in Sapa where visitors can interact and learn about the culture and customs of the ethnic minorities in the northern mountainous region.

A stream in Lao Chai village (@thuongdinh97)

3.7 Ho village

Located nearly 30km from the center to the west, Sapa Lake village is the last point of Muong Hoa stream.

Visitors will not be surprised by the green color as far as the eye can see of the rice fields, surrounded by hills mixed with the houses scattered along the two banks of the stream.

This is one of the beautiful places in Sapa to visit the ripe rice season.

Ho village and typical terraced fields of the Northwest

3.8 Tien Cave

The journey to discover Sapa cannot be complete without wild places that have not been interfered by too much by humans.

Tien Cave with many shapes of stalactites makes you feel like you are lost in a mysterious labyrinth. When entering the cave, the dim light from the outside penetrates into the interior, evoking the mysterious and enchanting.

The enchanting beauty of Tien cave

3.9 Thanh Kim – Deep Chau

These are two small communes in Lao Cai belonging to two different locations. Coming to Thanh Kim - Sau Chau, we together find the most peaceful things of Sapa with the sound of forest streams, rustling leaves, terraced fields and magnificent mountains. Of course, it is impossible to ignore meals with friendly local people.

Sapa tourist destination: Thanh Kim - Sau Chau

3.10 Ta Giang Phinh

Ta Giang Phinh is the name of a border village located in the Hoang Lien Son range. The highlight here is Ngu Chi Son mountain, 2,859m high, ranked 15th in Vietnam.

The border of Ta Giang Phinh Sapa is still very pristine (@william_cheyney)

Along the way, visitors can enjoy specialty fruits such as plums, pears, and peaches grown and sold regularly by ethnic people.

3.11 Giang Ta Chai – Su Pan

Giang Ta Chai is a village of the Red Dao with uniqueness in traditional cultural activities such as dance ceremonies, love songs or the "Put Tong" dance festival. This place is hidden behind the green bamboo groves and right next to a large waterfall.

Meanwhile, Su Pan is located across the stream with rudimentary, rustic houses on rocky soil and corn fields laden with fruit. The most impressive point of this Sapa tourist destination must be the unique welcome gate designed by the owner of each household made from bamboo, wood and rustic agricultural products.

3.12 Heartfelt Version

Y Linh Ho village is home to many small populations scattered on the mountain slopes. This is the right place for those who love to travel to the villages in the Northwest to discover Sapa in the most rustic way.

The typical bamboo and bamboo houses of the Mong and Dao people erected near terraced fields interspersed with corn and potato fields are cultivated and cared for carefully.

Y Linh Ho village on mountainside terrain (@vu.marcus)

3.13 Coc San Cave

Coc San is a system of waterfalls and caves of different sizes, a cluster of attractive tourist attractions in Sapa . Although this place is primitive and primitive, the scenery on both sides of the road to the cave is very close, making people nostalgic.

Coc San waterfall is present in the top places to visit when traveling to Sapa.

The mysterious shapes of stalactites make visitors think of many things such as trees, animals, and familiar farm tools. They are like being molded by some giant's hand, so magical and unique.

4. 5 tourist destinations - experience local culture famous in Sapa

4.1 can cau market.

Can Cau Market is called a fair because it only takes place every Saturday, always crowded with people from early morning to late afternoon. In addition, the market is also held on special holidays and Tet holidays of the year.

Traditional Can Cau Market

The market sells items made by upland people, self-produced such as vegetables, meat, household appliances, production materials only in the Northwest. Sapa food court in the market is also a special highlight.

It can be said that there is no place that goes to the market as fun as a fair like a fair in Sapa because everywhere you look, you can see the full color of brocade.

4.2 Bac Ha Market

Bac Ha market sells almost nothing, from clothes, buffaloes, dogs, chickens, pigs to fruits and food because many traders from all over the world come here to gather. Everyone is excited, waiting for the market as if it were a small festival.

Quite a lot of tourists like Sapa tourist destinations  in the form of exchanges with locals such as market Bac Ha.

Check out the bustling trade scene at Bac Ha fair when visiting Sapa

In particular, it is impossible not to mention the specialty of Thang Co - a dish associated with the spiritual life of the Northwest for many generations. Visitors can visit the market every Sunday from early morning to 2pm.

4.3 Sapa Love Market

Come to a tourist destination in Sapa to bring you an authentic experience of the culture here. Sapa love market is not only a place where young men and women tie their hair together, but also a place for people to conduct cultural activities to tighten their brotherly friendship.

Together they participate in many interesting activities such as playing the trumpet, tug of war, singing love songs,... Sapa fair usually takes place every Saturday night at Sapa Stone Church. Visiting Sapa definitely should not miss this place.

Interesting cultural activities such as women dancing to men's trumpet tunes are a special feature of this Sapa tourist destination.

When exploring Sapa, you may be surprised by the exciting activities at the noisy and bustling square of the Love Market (@strong.4th)

4.4 Sapa Museum

All the most typical things about Sapa can be found here with more than 200 artifacts and publications about ethnic groups in Sapa such as H'Mong, Tay, Giay, Xa Pho, Ha Nhi and Red Dao.

Here, every historical moment along with the beauty of Northwestern labor and culture are depicted in detail and vividly. Exploring Sapa through the artifacts here is also a good way to learn about ethnic cultures.

Artifacts of Sapa Museum have looms of highland ethnic people

Some other simulation works at Sapa Museum

4.5 Ha Khau - Sapa tourist destination bordering the border

Ha Khau is an autonomous county in China, in the southern part of Yunnan province. Ha Khau is always busy with both locals and tourists. The food here is also varied and affordable. The characteristic of Chinese food is that it is spicy, peppery, and greasy, which is very suitable in cold weather, with a bit of dew and wind.

Lao Cai international border gate is one of the famous tourist attractions in Sapa (@christine_nguyen91)

The dishes are popularly sold in Ha Khau - one of the famous tourist attractions in Sapa (@taonguyen210194)

How to get there: From Sapa stone church, take bus number 02 to the border gate about 30,000 VND / ticket, it takes 1 hour. Visitors need to make a passport at Lao Cai border gate to exit to Ha Khau.

If you read this far, you must have pocketed quite a few good Sapa tourist destinations for the upcoming journey, right? To get the most complete and economical vacation, don't forget to follow Dong Travel for the latest travel articles!

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Northern Vietnam Travel Guides , Sapa Travel Guides , Travel Guides , Vietnam Travel Guides

Sapa travel guide – everything you need to know.

As a popular tourist destination in Vietnam, Sapa stands at the head of a deep valley of magnificent rice terraces that are still farmed today as they have been for centuries. By staying in Sapa homestays and embarking on an exciting Sapa trekking trip through the surrounding mountains and rice terraces, visitors can fully experience the local way of life and the gorgeous natural beauty of Sapa. If you’re thinking of visiting this enchanting highland region, let’s discover the Sapa Travel Guide below, brought to you by Asia Legend Travel !

Sapa Travel Guide: Overview of Sapa

Located in the Northwest region of Vietnam, Sapa is a district-level town in Lao Cai Province, covering an area of 677 km2 and home to over 60,000 inhabitants. It sits at an elevation of about 1,500 meters and is 380 kilometers northwest of Hanoi, near the border with China.

The town is dominated by the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, home to a wide variety of natural creatures, many of which are found only in Northwest Vietnam. To preserve the area’s unique biodiversity, the Hoang Lien Nature Reserve was made a National Park in 2006, covering much of the mountain range south of Sapa. This range also includes Fan Si Pan, the highest mountain in Vietnam, standing at 3,143 meters above sea level.

Aside from its breathtaking scenery, Sapa is famous for its fascinating cultural blend. The hillside villages are home to several ethnic minorities, including Hmong, Red Dao, Tay, Giay, and Xa Pho, each with unique cultures and customs. The stunning scenery and cultural immersion makes it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Vietnam.

Sapa Travel Guide: Must-Visit Destinations

Below is a list of captivating tourist attractions in Sapa that visitors should not miss. Let’s explore them in the Sapa Travel Guide right away!

Cat Cat Village

Located near Sapa Town, Cat Cat Village is a beautiful small rural village of H’mong residents. From the moment you arrive, you will be captivated by the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush green landscapes. But that’s not all; the village also mesmerizes visitors with its vibrant culture.

Sapa Culture Museum

Established and put into operation in 2007, Sapa Culture Museum is an ideal destination for culture enthusiasts. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the rich history of Sapa and explore the customs, beliefs, and lifestyles of each local ethnic group.

Fansipan , the highest peak in Vietnam, is a famous tourist destination for Vietnamese and international tourists. When tourists conquer the Fansipan Peak, they can admire the beautiful natural scenery and the magnificent clouds on the Hoang Lien Son range, making for an incredible experience.

Sapa Market

Sapa Market is one of the most fascinating spots where visitors can explore and purchase various items such as Sapa delicacies, small souvenirs, beautiful traditional woven fabric, or handmade handicrafts made by locals. Furthermore, the weekend music exchange program is an excellent way to experience and appreciate the cultural uniqueness of the highland region.

Heaven’s Gate

Heaven’s Gate Sapa has always been the go-to destination for tourists seeking to capture the perfect cloud-hunting moment and virtual photo-taking experience. The scenery here is simply mesmerizing, with mountains and clouds blending to form a picturesque landscape that no painter could depict.

Ham Rong Mountain

Located right behind the Sapa Church, Ham Rong Mountain has a shape like a dragon holding its head up towards the sky. Along with the fascinating attached legend, the mountain is a fascinating spot that attracts millions of visitors each year.

Sapa Travel Guide: Must-Try Local Food

When visiting Sapa, Vietnam, there are several must-try local dishes that you shouldn’t miss out on. Here are some of the top recommendations curated by Sapa Travel Guide :

Salmon/ Sturgeon Hotpot

This flavorful hotpot dish is perfect for cold days and features fresh salmon and sturgeon cooked in a rich broth. Whether you’re a local or a visitor travelling to Sapa Town, this exquisite dish is an absolute must-try that will leave you craving for more.

Thang Co, a traditional dish made from horse meat and offal, is renowned for its distinctive taste and aroma. With its unique cooking process, it truly embodies the culinary traditions and heritage of the region, making it a must-try for anyone visiting the area.

Com Lam (Bamboo-Tube Rice)

Com Lam is sticky rice cooked inside bamboo tubes, which gives it a delicious smoky flavor. This mouthwatering delicacy is widely enjoyed as a popular street food in Sapa, often purchased by visitors as a thoughtful gift for friends and family back home.

Thit Trau Gac Bep (Dried Buffalo Meat)

This dried buffalo meat is a specialty in Sapa and makes for a tasty snack or ingredient in various dishes. To enhance its flavor, you can eat it with a squeeze of lime juice and some chili sauce.

Mam Da (Sapa stone sprouts)

Sapa stone sprouts are a delightful specialty vegetable in Sapa. They are similar to choy sum but have larger stems and abundant branches. With their small leaves, they resemble sprouts growing in the crevices of rocks. These vegetables can be found on the high mountain peaks of Sapa and are only available from November to March, adding a touch of freshness to your meals during those months.

These are just a few of the must-try local foods in Sapa. Embark on your journey to this charming highland town, visit the restaurants in Sapa , and discover more delicious local dishes!

Sapa Travel Guide: Best Things to Do

Below is a list of great things to do in the beautiful town of Sapa, Vietnam. Keep in mind that these suggestions only scratch the surface and there is so much more to explore and experience!

Trek to the local villages

A trek to the nearby local villages is an amazing chance to fully experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the hill tribes. One of the must-visit places is Cat Cat Village, where you can observe the Hmong villagers cultivating in the valley and crafting exquisite handmade textiles.

Hike up the highest mountain in Southeast Asia (or take the cable car)!

Reaching the roof of Indochina may be challenging, but it is definitely worth it for the sweeping views of the beautiful countryside. Alternatively, you can opt for a cable car ride to the summit and enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery through the windows.

Immerse in the lively atmosphere of Sapa local markets

A visit to local markets in Sapa is a great way to explore a more authentic side of the town. Taking a leisurely stroll among the stalls and discovering a wide range of vibrant, locally-sourced produce, you can find beautiful handicrafts that make for meaningful gifts or souvenirs for your loved ones.

Best Time to Visit Sapa

The best time to visit Sapa is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is pleasant and relatively stable, with sunny days and cool nights, making it ideal for most outdoor activities and exploration.

How Long to Spend in Sapa

So, what is the ideal duration for a trip to Sapa ? It depends on your interests and travel style, but typically spending 2 to 4 days in Sapa is sufficient to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of this town. During your stay, you will have the opportunity to explore the picturesque landscapes, take breathtaking hikes through the surrounding rice paddies, visit ethnic minority villages, and participate in cultural experiences.

Hopefully, the information in the Sapa Travel Guide above is helpful for you. Sapa is a fantastic tourist spot that attracts numerous tourists for several reasons. So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey to Sapa , enjoy your time, and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture!

Tours related to Sapa

Hanoi – Sapa – 5 Days 4 Nights

$ 500 $ 439 +

Hanoi – Ta Xua – Moc Chau – 6 Days 5 Nights

Hanoi – Halong Bay – Ta Xua – Moc Chau – 6 Days 5 Nights

Discover Vietnam – Scenic and Short Trek – 15 Days 14 Nights

Highlights of Vietnam – 15 Days 14 Nights

Discover Northwest Vietnam – Hanoi – Sapa – 5 Days 4 Nights

$ 575 $ 510 +

Shirleen Bui

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Sapa Travel Guide

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All Things need to know before Travelling to Sapa Vietnam

For many years, Sapa has drawn a lot of international tourists as a desirable travel destination. Known as “cloud town” by the locals, Sapa is a precious gem in Northwest Vietnam. Given its majestic natural scenery, endless green mountains, and distinctive culture of indigenous ethnic minority, it is not surprising that Sapa has grown to be one of the nation’s most sought-after travel destinations and undoubtedly Sapa won’t let you down.

Where is Sapa located?

Sa Pa is a mountainous town in Lao Cai province in the Northwest region of Vietnam. Located between the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and the Con Voi range to the northwest, Sapa is perched 1,500–1,600 meters above sea level on a mountainside.

Sapa is about 30 kilometers southwest of Lao Cai city and about 310 kilometers northwest of Hanoi capital. With geographical location as follows:

• The East borders Lao Cai city and Bao Thang district.
• The West borders Tam Duong district and Tan Uyen district of Lai Chau province.
• The South borders Van Ban district.
• The north borders Bat Xat district.

The best time to visit Sapa

If you’re still unsure about when to visit Sapa, Hanoi Explore Travel suggests that you go whenever you’d like. The town of Sapa still experiences four different seasons, yet even in the summer, the average temperature seldom rises over 25 degrees Celsius. When visiting Sapa at any time of year, you may take in the distinctive scenery because each season has a certain allure that will “captivate” tourists.

Sapa in Spring

Throughout late December to early February, Sapa was blanketed in a bright pink hue as the spring peach flowers bloomed. From February to March, you may take in the white-blossomed woodlands of apricot and plum blossoms.

With the pleasant springtime weather, flowers of various kinds blossom in the time between March and April. There are many buckwheat and white Ban flowers blooming all throughout the town.

Sapa in Summer

Summer is also the rainy season in Sapa, but traveling in summertime is still possible. If you’ve always been enthralled by the beautiful terraced rice fields of Sapa, there are two excellent times for you to go there on your own: early summer and late summer.

Rice planting season, also known as pouring water season, occurs in April and May. At this time of year, Sapa is covered in the verdant hues of newly planted rice fields as locals begin the new farming season. However, the most beautiful moment of the day is the sunrise or sunset, when the orange-yellow sunlight spills over the fields, reflecting sparklingly on the water surface.

Late August and September is the season of ripe rice in Sapa. At this time, you will have the opportunity to see golden rice on winding terraced fields and enjoy the cool air of late summer and early autumn.

Sapa in Autumn

Since autumn marks the buckwheat flower season, it’s a popular time for self-guided trips to Sapa. From mid-October until the end of November, the whole Northwest mountainous region is covered in fields of pink buckwheat flowers. In particular, the last two weeks of October is also the time to organize the Buckwheat Flower Festival with many fascinating cultural exploration activities.

Sapa in Winter

Sapa is one of the rare regions in Vietnam that gives you the opportunity to see snow fall. Come to Sapa in the wintertime if you want to feel the chill of the high mountains and take in the sight of this little town covered in a blanket of white snow. Besides, from the end of November to the beginning of the new year is when the rapeseed flower fields in Sapa bloom and welcome tourists.

While Sapa is attractive throughout the winter, it should be reminded that there might be severe weather when the temperature drops below zero and there is cloud cover in the sky. Therefore, when traveling to Sapa on your own during this time, make sure you have the essentials and warm clothing to keep yourself healthy.

How to get to Sapa Vietnam?

Located about 376 kilometers from Hanoi, there are many ways to get to Sapa. Travelers frequently fly to Hanoi and spend time in the city before taking their independent journey to Sapa to freely explore both locations. Flights from Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang range from 1,300,000 – 2,000,000 VND/way.

From Hanoi, there are two options for you to go to Sapa: go straight to the town of Sapa, or stop by Lao Cai before moving to Sapa which is only 40 kilometers from Lao Cai city center.

Go straight from Hanoi to Sapa

By bus: This is the most affordable and straightforward way to travel to Sapa on your own. Some companies like Sao Viet, Sapa Express, and Inter Bus Line offer sleeping buses with the cost ranging between 200,000 and 400,000 VND each trip.

By train: Depending on the train type and seat class, direct trains from Hanoi to Sapa cost between 380,000 and 1,700,000 VND per way. Well-known lines like Sapaly, Chapa, King Express, and Victoria Express are among them.

Stop by Lao Cai before moving to Sapa

If you choose to go to Lao Cai, traveling by train is the most convenient means of transportation, with a ticket price of about 150,000 – 500,000 VND/way. Refer to train schedules and specific prices as follows:

The night train is the best option since it will get you to Lao Cai early in the morning. Proceed to take a bus, cab, or shuttle bus to Sapa, you will arrive in Sapa in around 45 minutes.

Travel to Sapa by motorbike

Adventuresome travelers may find that a self-sufficient trip to Sapa by motorbike is a compelling way to witness the splendor of the rugged yet fascinating roads in the Northwest.

However, you need to ensure your own safety when driving, because these roads are quite steep and dangerous. In addition, traveling by motorbike can help you reduce your Sapa trip’s expenses significantly.

Means of transportation in Sapa

Motorbike: The most convenient means of exploring Sapa is definitely a motorbike. You can easily rent a motorbike for about 100,000 – 150,000 VND/day.

However, it is noted that some tourist attractions in Sapa are not suitable for traveling by car due to terrain characteristics. You should carefully research the destination information to choose the most appropriate means of transport.

Tourist attractions in Sapa

Sapa is a well-liked travel destination because of its unique ethnic identity and stunning natural surroundings. So what tourist attractions are there in Sapa? Let’s explore it with Hanoi Explore Travel right below.

Tourist attractions near Sapa town center

Sapa stone church.

• Address: Ham Rong Street, Sapa town center

The Stone Church, also known as the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, is one of the iconic symbols of Sapa located in the center of Sapa town. The church was built in the early 20th century and its French Gothic architecture has been preserved almost intact until today.

Sapa love market

• Address: In front of Stone Church’s yard
• Time: Every Saturday and Sunday night

This is the market of the Dao people, only opened once a week on Sundays, but the night before, a lot of couples gathered to express their love and confide in one another. The market is now a fascinating location for tourists to learn about the cultures of ethnic groups living in the mountains and enjoy delicious regional specialities.

Located in the center of Sapa town, Sapa Lake is also one of the most alluring and fascinating spots for many tourists. Coming here, visitors can admire the poetic and charming natural scenery as well as have the chance to participate in unique and meaningful festivals.

Sapa night market

Coming to Sapa, do not miss the bustling night market here. You can engage, meet, and converse with many interesting people at Sapa Night Market in addition to enjoying delicious food and various entertainment activities.

Ham Rong mountain

• Address: 3 kilometers from Sapa town, right behind the Stone Church

At a height of around 2,000 meters above sea level, Ham Rong Mountain is located approximately 3 kilometers from Sapa town. From the summit of Ham Rong, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Sapa and the surrounding beautiful valleys. This area is also referred to as the Cloud Yard of the misty town because of the incredibly wonderful clouds that play around the mountain on foggy days.

Muong Hoa Valley – Ancient stone field

• Address: Hau Thao commune, about 8 kilometers southeast of town

This beautiful valley, located about 8 kilometers from Sapa, is home to many ancient traces, most of which are ancient rocks that are unknown in time or origin.

Ta Phin village

• Address: 12 kilometers north of the town
• Ticket price: 40,000 VND/person

Ta Phin village is primarily home to Red Dao people, with a small H’Mong population. Coming to Ta Phin, you may witness firsthand the ethnic girls creating brocade on wooden looms. Near Ta Phin village is Ta Phin cave – a wonder of nature with a massive stalactite system.

Fansipan Mountain Sapa

Fansipan is the highest peak in the Hoang Lien mountain range, also known as the roof of Indochina. There is a diverse flora and fauna with many types of precious trees and rich species of chickens, bears, monkeys, birds, etc. Visitors can take the cable car or tram to the summit of Fansipan, or if you want to fully explore the mountain, you can take a 2-or-3-day trekking to conquer the central mountain of Hoang Lien Son range.

• Cable car station: no.80B Nguyen Chi Thanh
• Ticket price: 700,000 VND/adult, 500,000 VND/child
• Mountain climbing train ticket: 70,000 VND/way up, 80,000 VND/way down
• Operating hours: 7:30 – 17:30

Cat Cat village

• Address: San Sa Ho commune, about 2 kilometers from the town center
• Ticket price: 50,000 VND/person

Located at the foot of Hoang Lien Son mountain, Cat Cat Village is where the H’Mong community lives and continues their life mostly depending on farming, weaving, and silver carving – traditional jewelry design.

Sun Plaza Sapa

The Sun Plaza, a well-known check-in spot for young people in recent years, is only a few dozen steps from Stone Church. Sun Plaza exudes nostalgia and a sense of dreaminess with its yellow walls and arched gate structure. Whether it’s on a cloudy or sunny day, Sun Plaza still embodies the European-trait beauty.

Muong Hoa mountain climbing train station

Muong Hoa mountain climbing train station is not only a place for you to visit if you do not want to strenuously climb the peak of Fansipan, this is also a popular place for young people because of its excellent checkin space.

The train station features a nostalgic style of the last century, dark brown tones along with a very opulent dome and high ceiling design. Therefore, this place becomes extremely suitable as a background for virtual live photos, especially when you travel to Sapa with your lover.

• Address: No.87, Nguyen Chi Thanh street, Sapa Town.
• Ticket price: 80,000 VND/person.

With two extremely unique tree statues and an infinity swing, Swing Sapa is a popular spot to check in nowadays and take images that rival those of Swing in Bali. This location is only about 2 kilometers walk from Sapa Stone Church.

Sin Chai village

Sin Chai village is in San Sa Ho commune, more than 4 kilometers from Sapa town center. This is a village of the Black H’mong community with a population of only about 1,400 people, mainly living on growing rice, corn and cardamom on gentle terraced fields. As the village has not been exploited for tourism, it still retains its original beauty.

Lao Chai village – Ta Van

About 7 kilometers from the Sapa town center, Lao Chai Village is home to ethnic minorities like H’mong, Dao, Giay, Tay… This is one of the villages that has full amenities but still retains its traditional living culture, which creates a very unique beauty and attracts both domestic and foreign tourists.

Tourist attractions far from Sapa town center

O quy ho pass.

• Address: On National Highway 4D, connecting Lao Cai and Lai Chau provinces

Dubbed as one of the “four great passes” in Vietnam, O Quy Ho Pass is one of the most treacherous routes, testing the resolve of several backpackers to conquer it. O Quy Ho Pass is also known by other names such as Tram Ton Pass, Hoang Lien Son Pass.

Sapa Tram Ton Heaven Gate

• Address: 18 kilometers north of Sapa town (towards to Lai Chau province)

Tram Ton Pass, also known as Sapa Heaven Gate , is a spectacular pass located in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range in Northern Vietnam. This is the highest pass in Vietnam with an altitude of 1,900m above sea level. The pass is located on the road connecting Sapa and Lai Chau, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Heaven Gate got its name because of the amazing view of the sky and clouds that one can get from the pass, particularly at dawn and dusk.  Tram Ton Pass is a popular spot if you’re looking for a scenic trip in Sapa, Vietnam.

The road winds through the mountains, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also stop at various viewpoints along the way to take photos and admire the scenery.

Sapa Glass Bridge

The Sapa Glass Bridge is a relatively new tourist attraction that takes a lot of bravery to experience. At an altitude of more than 2,200 meters above sea level, the Sapa Glass Bridge is situated atop O Quy Ho Pass, directly across from the old Sapa Heaven Gate. You will thus experience a sense of floating as you walk across this glass bridge and gaze down to O Quy Ho Pass through the transparent glass.

Love waterfall in Sapa

• Location: San Sa Ho commune, 4 kilometers southwest of Sapa town
• Ticket price: 45,000 VND/person

Love Waterfall, which also rises from Fansipan Mountain, is around 100 meters high and cascades magnificently day and night. The waterfall belongs to Hoang Lien National Park, surrounded by green forests and diverse vegetation.

Sapa Silver Waterfall – Thac Bac Waterfall

• Address: San Sa Ho commune, 12 kilometers west of Sapa town

Near Love Waterfall is Silver Waterfall. The Thac Bac Waterfall Sapa is more than 200 meters high and is upstream of the Muong Hoa stream. Standing at Ham Rong peak, you will be able to see this majestic waterfall with white, strong torrents of water.

A comprehensive guide for your upcoming Sapa trip

What to eat in sapa, vietnam.

The Northwestern mountainous provinces, and Sapa in particular, have very unique specialties. Let’s take a look at the list of dishes you should not miss when coming to Sapa.

Sapa salmon

It would be a big mistake to discuss Sapa specialties without bringing up salmon. Sapa salmon is solid and delicious, without being greasy at all. It can be prepared into grilled fish or eaten raw as sashimi. In Sapa’s chilly weather, there is nothing better than sitting and enjoying a delicious salmon hot pot, is there?

Suggested restaurants for Sapa salmon:

• Red Dao Restaurant: 4B Thac Bac
• Kham Pha Viet Restaurant: No.15 Thach Son
• Thac Bac Restaurant: Km12 Thac Bac Tourist Area
• Lotus Sapa Restaurant: No.34 Cau May
• Hoa Dao Restaurant: No.48 Le Van Tam

When visiting Sapa, visitors should not miss the opportunity to sample “thang co,” the most well-known meal in the Northwest. “Thang co” is prepared by simmering a variety of meats and animal organs in a big pan over a charcoal fire for several hours, until the meats are soft and the spices are equally absorbed.

Suggested places to try “Thang co”:

• Thang Co A Phu Sapa – Address: No.15 Fansipan, Sapa town, Lao Cai province
• Cau May Sapa Restaurant – Address: No.92 Ngu Chi Son
• A Quynh Thang Co Restaurant: No.015 Thach Son, Sapa.
• Markets in Sapa

Ga ac – Black chicken

Black chicken is well-known for its medicinal and nutritious values. Nothing goes better than grilled chicken with hot honey or a bowl of black chicken with herbs in Sapa’s cold weather.

• Where to try: Sapa grilling area

Lon cap nach – Pig carried under armpit

A small kind of pig known as an armpit pig is one that may be “held under the armpit” or placed in a basket for easy transportation. Armpit pork is firmer than pork from pigs raised traditionally, therefore it is usually prepared for tasty roasted, grilled, and boiling meals.

Best area to try:

• Thac Bac Restaurant: Km12 Thac Bac Tourist Area, Sapa Town
• Gerbera Restaurant: No.31 Cau May, Sapa

Grilled food

In Sapa, grilled skewers make a perfect cold-weather snack. Grilled skewers come in a variety of types, including meat, sausages, chicken feet, and veggies. Most especially, eating grilled food is indispensable with a tube of fragrant sticky rice and some sesame salt.

Where to try:

• Grilling area near Stone Church
• Grilling area on Cau May street

“Com Lam” – Sticky rice cooked in bamboo tube

“Com Lam” is a typical rice dish of ethnic people in the Northwest with sticky rice cooked in a bamboo tube and grilled, creating the fragrant flavor of bamboo mixed in the rice. To enjoy this flavor to the fullest, pair “com lam” with sesame salt

Enjoy specialties at Bac Ha market

The Bac Ha market is one location where you may find a wide variety of Sapa specialties. Take a day to explore this well-known highland market and don’t forget to fill your stomach with all the delicious dishes.

Where to stay in Sapa

Being a well-known travel destination in the mountains of the Northwest, Sapa offers a wide variety of hotels and accommodations. Sapa has everything you could possibly want, whether you’re searching for an opulent resort hotel or a homestay where you can fully immerse yourself in local culture.

Hotels in Sapa

There are numerous categories to pick from when it comes to hotels in Sapa. Names like Sapa Hills Hotel, Golden Villa Hotel, Sapa Odyssey Hotel, KK Sapa Hotel, DeLaSol Phat Linh Sapa, Pao’s Sapa Leisure Hotel… focus on design, invest in space and quality of service, and have reasonable prices, making them an ideal option for travelers visiting Sapa on their own.

Resorts in Sapa

It’s difficult to pass up Sapa resort if you want to experience the ultimate vacation atmosphere with the chilly weather of the mountain town. Consider selecting one of the well-known lodging options as Topas Ecolodge, Sapa Jade Hill Resort and Spa, Aira Boutique Sapa Hotel & Spa, Golden Town Hotel, Nomad Trails Boutique Hotel, or Freesia Hotel to “reward” yourself with the warmest and most relaxing getaway.

Hostels and homestays in Sapa

If you prefer not to stay in hotels and resorts, think about well-known hostels and homestays in the self-sufficient Sapa travel community. Popular Sapa homestays for backpackers include Sapa Capsule Hotel, Phori’s House, Little Sapa, Po Homestay

What to prepare for a Sapa trip

• When packing luggage to Sapa, keep in mind the following information for a seamless travel experience:
• Identification papers, such as a passport, are required when visiting Sapa.
• When renting a motorbike or checking into a hotel in Sapa, you must present identification.
• You should prepare warm clothes because Sapa’s weather is cool all year round, especially at night it will be quite cold.
• Prepare medicine for headaches, stomachaches, colds, etc. to avoid situations where you don’t like the food and are not used to the atmosphere and food here.
• You will have to walk quite a lot during the tour because Sapa has a lot of slopes and the roads are not as flat as they are in the delta regions. To facilitate movement and prevent foot pain, you should therefore pack sports shoes, low-soled shoes, and soft-soled shoes.
• Plan your sightseeing schedule before departing to ensure a suitable itinerary and prevent getting exhausted during the trip.
• If you would like to travel to Sapa on a tour, you should book the tour at least one month in advance from the departure date to ensure availability and a variety of choices.

Tips for shopping in Sapa Vietnam

• You may get a lot of clothing, brocade toys, silver jewelry, dried beads, and handicrafts like wallets, handbags, and keychains here at very affordable prices. These items can also be purchased as gifts or souvenirs.
• If you want to help Sapa children who are selling souvenirs, buy something for them instead of giving them money since they will crowd around you and make you feel uncomfortable.
• Be careful of personal property in any tourist area, there are good and bad people, cases of pickpockets, property robberies,…
• If buying items such as carpets, brocade fabrics, etc., you can bargain a little with the seller.
• It is improper to randomly snap pictures of Sapa people, particularly women and kids. Should they discover that you are taking pictures, they will demand payment or merchandise purchases.

The comprehensive guide that summarizes traveler experiences in Sapa is provided above; hopefully it will be useful for your next trip. What are you waiting for, plan your trip to Sapa now!

Sapa, Vietnam: 9 Places to Visit & Things to Know

• August 6, 2023
• Last updated on December 5, 2023
• Vietnam Travel Blogs

Though Sapa is just a small town in Vietnam, its allure has reached global proportions. Many international travelers have only heard of Sapa through word of mouth or the internet, and they always wish to visit Sapa at least once in their lifetime. This has transformed Sapa into one of Vietnam’s most enticing tourist destinations. When you visit Sapa, you will be able to marvel at the majestic nature of the hills and mountains, gaze upon the sprawling terraced rice fields, and explore the lives of Vietnam’s various ethnic minority groups. Join us as we list some of the best attractions in Sapa and provide a few tips for your travel experience in Sapa. Read more: The Best 2-week Tour itinerary in Vietnam

Table of Contents

Overview of Sapa

Sapa is a highland town located in Lao Cai Province, a province in the Northwestern region of Vietnam . Considered the most beautiful and majestic place in the Northern mountainous region of Vietnam, Sapa consistently attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists every year. One of the most beloved features of Sapa by visitors is its terraced rice fields, ethnic villages, and grand mountain ranges.

Due to the influx of tourists, Sapa has garnered international investor interest, leading to the establishment of numerous luxury hotels, resorts, and top-tier entertainment services. This comprehensive investment has shaped Sapa into what it is today – a premier and captivating tourist destination in Vietnam.

Best time to visit Sapa

Sapa has a cool climate with an average temperature of only 15 degrees Celsius, and it is one of the rare destinations in Vietnam that experiences all four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Any time of the year is ideal for visiting Sapa, except during the rainy season from June to early August.

The best time to visit Sapa is during the autumn season, which lasts from September to November. During this time, Sapa is truly enchanting with the golden hues of ripened rice fields, and the weather gradually turns cooler. It is also the low tourist season for domestic travelers, so you will mainly see international tourists during this period. The winter season, from December to February, occasionally brings snow to the mountain peaks.

How to get to Sapa?

Currently, there are no direct flights from Hanoi to Sapa, so you can only travel to Sapa by road or by train. There are two main stages of transportation from Hanoi to Sapa:

• First, you need to take a train or car from Hanoi to Lao Cai province, covering a distance of nearly 300 km, which takes about 6-8 hours.
• Then, you travel by car from Lao Cai to Sapa on a 35 km mountainous route, which takes about 1 hour.

We recommend taking the night train from Hanoi to Lao Cai , and then taking a car to Sapa in the morning, as this is the most convenient option.

9 Best Attractions in Sapa, Vietnam

1. fansipan peak.

Fansipan is the highest mountain on the Indochinese Peninsula, standing at over 3000 meters above sea level. It is located about 9 km southwest of Sapa town. While it takes 6 to 7 days to hike and conquer the peak, most tourists opt for the cable car ride from the center of Sapa to the summit. This way, they save time and still get to admire the majestic natural beauty.

Read more: How to Build a Suitable Tour Package for You

2. Ham Rong Mountain

Ham Rong Mountain is relatively close to the center of Sapa, around 3 km away. The area has a pleasant climate with temperatures around 18 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for hiking or mountain climbing. Standing at the top of Ham Rong Mountain, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Sapa town, the Muong Hoa Valley, and Sapa and Ta Phin hidden in the mist.

Read more: Places to visit Nha Trang

3. Stone Church of Sapa

Located right in the center of Sapa town, the Stone Church of Sapa was built in 1895 and is considered the most intact architectural relic of the French that still remains. Despite going through various historical events and renovations, the church has retained its original charm and has become an iconic symbol of Sapa.

Read more: 7 Museums in Ho Chi Minh city You Should Visit

4. Cat Cat Village

About 2 km from the center of Sapa, Cat Cat Village is an ancient village of the H’Mong people, where many traditional customs and crafts are still preserved, such as weaving, silver carving, and jewelry making. The place has been developed into a tourist area known as Cat Cat Tourism Village.

Read more: Phu Quoc, Vietnam: Places to Visit & Things to Know

5. Ta Phin Village

Ta Phin Village is located about 15 km east of Sapa town. It offers beautiful natural landscapes and rich cultural identity of the Red Dao ethnic group, known for their famous brocade weaving. Visitors to Ta Phin can also explore the nearby Ta Phin Cave, which features intriguing stalactite formations.

Read more: Hoi An Ancient Town – Some Sightseeing Tips

6. Sin Chai Village

Sin Chai Village is the largest village in Sapa, situated next to the picturesque Cat Cat Village, about 5 km from Sapa town. The village is home to around 1600 H’Mong people, and visiting here allows you to experience the unique culture of the H’Mong people, reflected in their daily life, architecture, and various aspects of the village.

7. Lao Chai and Ta Van Villages

Located about 8 km from the center of Sapa, Lao Chai and Ta Van are two large villages with a mix of different ethnic groups living together. Visiting these villages, you can not only learn about the local life of the ethnic minorities but also witness the vast expanse of terraced rice fields that turn golden during the end of summer, creating a stunning view.

8. Muong Hoa Valley – Ancient Rock Field

Muong Hoa Valley is about 8 km southeast of Sapa town. What makes this valley special is the ancient rock field with various carvings scattered among the terraced rice fields of the ethnic people. Hundreds of engraved stones with mysterious symbols and characters have yet to be fully understood in terms of their origin and meaning. Today, this ancient rock carving site has been recognized as a national monument and is a unique heritage of the ancient Vietnamese.

9. Sapa Sky Gate

Sapa Sky Gate is a famous tourist spot located on the O Quy Ho Pass at an altitude of 2035 meters above sea level, about 18 km from Sapa town. To reach this place, visitors must travel a 50 km route by motorbike or opt for a cable car ride, which is more expensive but ensures a safer and more convenient journey. Once you arrive at Sapa Sky Gate, you’ll be amazed by the surrounding mountains and lush green forests, creating a refreshing and immersive natural experience.

Sapa cuisine

Salmon in sapa.

Speaking of Sapa’s specialties without mentioning salmon would be a significant omission. Nowadays, salmon is being bred and raised in Sapa. The quality of salmon here is no less than that of imported salmon. The flesh of the fish is fragrant and not overly fatty, suitable for eating raw like sashimi or for preparing dishes like grilling or baking.

Wild Boar Meat

Sapa’s wild boar is a breed of pig with black fur that is raised by the Mong ethnic people on the hills. When fully grown, each pig only weighs about 6kg. The pork is firm and is interspersed with lean meat and fat. When grilled on a charcoal stove, it exudes an appealing and enticing aroma.

Some good hotels in Sapa

Hotel de la Coupole Sapa – MGallery by Sofitel Address: 1 Hoang Lien Street, Sapa Town, Lao Cai Province.

Hotel de la Coupole is a 5-star hotel in Sapa designed by Bill Bensley. It boasts nearly 250 luxurious rooms, featuring a classic French design with rich and bold colors. Each room is a unique masterpiece meticulously crafted with high-quality interior furnishings.

Website: https://www.hoteldelacoupole.com

Topas Ecolodge Address: Ban Lech Village, Thanh Kim Commune, Ban Ho, Sapa.

Topas Ecolodge Sapa is a resort offering 33 sturdy and solidly built bungalows made of granite. Located on a hilltop, the place boasts a wide and beautiful view. One of the highlights of Topas Ecolodge is its infinity pool overlooking the vast mountainous area of Sapa.

Silk Path Grand Resort & Spa Sapa Address: Doi Quan 6, Group 5, Sapa.

Silk Path Grand Resort & Spa Sapa is situated on a separate hill with breathtaking views. Inspired by luxurious French castles, the resort exudes elegance and sophistication with a distinctive Indochine architectural style influenced by the local Sapa culture. It proudly presents a dreamy vacation spot amid the Northwest mountains and forests.

BB Sapa Hotel Address: 8 Cau May Alley, Sapa.

BB Sapa Hotel is a 4-star rated hotel conveniently located in the center of Sapa, providing easy access to the town’s famous tourist attractions.

Sapa Jade Hill Resort and Spa Address: Premium Resort, Cau May Alley, Group 3, Sapa.

Sapa Jade Hill Resort and Spa is a 5-star resort nestled in the Lao Chai – Ta Van town, Sapa, about 2 km from the city center. It is surrounded by majestic nature, close to the beautiful Muong Hoa Valley, offering splendid panoramic views of Sapa.

Bamboo Sapa Hotel Address: 18 Muong Hoa, Sapa, Lao Cai Province.

Bamboo Sapa Hotel is a standard 4-star hotel in Sapa, and it is known for its beautiful views.

Pao’s Sapa Leisure Address: Muong Hoa Street, Sapa Town.

Pao’s Sapa Leisure stands out with its design resembling terraced rice fields. It offers 223 high-end rooms, reflecting the local cultural identity. The rooms are well-equipped with premium amenities and have spacious views. The hotel’s swimming pool and restaurant are highly rated by customers, making it a worthy choice.

Read more: Top 7 Vietnamese Rolls You Should Try

Pistachio Hotel Sapa

With its distinct local architectural style within a luxurious space, the 4-star Pistachio Hotel Sapa is a great choice. Located in the center of Sapa, it offers easy access to other tourist spots in the city. Additionally, the hotel provides a wide and open view of the Muong Hoa Valley. The modern and natural interior architecture, along with the warm and friendly staff, make it a top choice for a 4-star hotel in Sapa.

Sapa Panorama Address: 10 Hoang Dieu Street, Sapa Town.

If you are looking for a good 3-star hotel in Sapa, Sapa Panorama is the choice for you. Located in the central area, it offers convenient transportation. Moreover, it provides a panoramic view of Sapa town and the Hoang Lien Son mountain range.

Cafes with beautiful views in Sapa

Sailing Sapa Address: Sapa Ancient Rock Field, Sapa.

Read more: 14 Best Restaurants in Hoi An Ancient Town

Ville De Mont Mountain Resort Address: To 7, Sapa town, Sapa district, Lao Cai.

Coóng Coffee & Homestay Address: To 1, Cau May ward, Sapa, Lao Cai.

Viettrekking Sapa Address: 33 Hoang Lien, Sapa town.

Fansipan Terrace Cafe Address: 67 Fansipan, Sapa.

Notes when visiting Sapa

Note about clothing

If you visit Sapa in the summer, shorts and jeans are suitable, and you might want to bring a thin jacket to guard against the evening chill. In the winter, you’ll need thicker clothing to keep warm as there can be snowfall in Sapa during this season.

Read more: Top 10 Souvenirs to Buy When Traveling Vietnam

Prepare personal items

Sapa mainly consists of hilly terrain, and you’ll likely be walking quite a bit. Therefore, prepare a pair of sports shoes to facilitate movement.

Prepare cash and bank cards

Banking services in Sapa are quite developed. You can easily find ATMs in the town of Sapa or bank branches. However, it’s advisable to have cash on hand for convenient payment of dining or souvenir purchases.

Read more: Where To Exchange US dollars (USD) to Vietnamese Currency?

Taking photos with ethnic minorities

Sapa is often home to ethnic minority groups such as the H’Mong and Red Dao. If you wish to take photos with them, it’s considerate to offer a small gratuity as a token of appreciation.

The best tourist attractions in Sapa that we have just mentioned above will allow you to fully experience the majestic nature, life, and culture of Sapa. If you don’t have much time, you can choose a few key spots to visit, such as Fansipan, Ham Rong Mountain, and Cat Cat Village. Additionally, you should also take note of the best time to visit Sapa to ensure the best experience for your trip.

Plan Your Trip

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3 Days in Sapa, Vietnam: An Adventurous Sapa Itinerary to Experience

Three days in Sapa, Vietnam is a reasonable amount of time to see the mountainous area in North Vietnam.

This small city is located in Lao Cai, which is about 5 hours northwest of Hanoi, so it’s a fantastic addition to a North Vietnam itinerary or weekend getaway . 

Most visitors head to Sapa to enjoy the breathtaking landscape views of the green rice terraces and rice fields, go on bucket list worthy hikes and treks , visit ethnic villages, and escape the large city.

While the main Sapa Town is developed and a bit touristy, there are many incredible things to do in Sapa and the surrounding area. You’ll love your time here, especially the adventure lovers, and won’t want to leave! 

In this Sapa 3 days itinerary, we’re providing an easy to follow itinerary on what to do in Sapa, how to get to Sapa, and other helpful travel tips.

Since we love hiking, we’ve included hiking/trekking opportunities and other fun adventurous outdoor activities that you can try. We’ve been to Sapa on two separate occasions and love our experience each time.

Click to jump to certain areas of this Sapa travel guide. 

• When to Visit Sapa

How to Get to Sapa

• How to Travel Around Sapa
• Itinerary Day 1
• Itinerary 2 & 3
• Other Places to Visit in Sapa
• Sapa Restaurants
• Sapa Accommodations

Before you check out this 3 days in Sapa itinerary, here are some helpful Vietnam guides to also browse through:

• Why Visit Vietnam
• Fun Things to Try in Vietnam
• Vietnam Travel Apps to Use

*Disclaimer: Traveling to Sapa? This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

Before arriving in Sapa, it’s recommended to buy a SIM Card at Hanoi Airport (Noi Ba International Airport) or set up a Vietnam eSIM before your arrival . You’ll need to have access to data during your Vietnam travels

For those in the U.S. looking for an international phone plan , consider Google Fi (formerly Google Project Fi). We love this phone plan and have used it since 2016. We get access to data and text in 200+ countries without additional roaming fees, and it works in Vietnam. Learn more and try it for free here. 

Best Time to Visit Sapa

With the cooler climate and mountains, Sapa can be visited at any time of the year. The dry season is from October to May and the wet season is from June to September . 

If you plan to trek, you may want to avoid the rainy season as the hiking paths are muddy and slippery. Or, just go along for the adventure as rain can happen at any time of the year. You may be lucky and not experience any rain.

If you’re looking for the iconic green and yellow rice terraces , the best time to visit Sapa is from the end of August to the beginning of September. This will be a photogenic time to visit Sapa before the rice harvest begins.

Don’t worry if you’re not able to visit during this time since Sapa is beautiful no matter when you visit !

We traveled to this area in November and the mountains with the rice terraces were still beautiful and green. Although the rice fields were empty, the landscapes were still breathtaking to witness.  

Sapa is beautiful to visit at any time of the year. We visited in November!

Most travelers visit Sapa from Hanoi , Vietnam’s capital.

Since Sapa does not have a domestic airport, visitors must use various transportation options such as sleeper buses, limousine vans, cars, and overnight trains to get to Sapa. 

Check out our post on the cheapest and most convenient transportation options from Hanoi to Sapa .  

Depending on your budget and the amount of time you have to travel between the cities, the fastest way to get to Sapa from Hanoi is by limousine van, sleeper bus, and private car . Expect to take 6+ hours one way to get to Sapa. 

We recommend the luxury sleeper buses where you can have your own cabin and lie down flat.

The longer and more leisurely option is to take the overnight train . As a heads up, the train goes from Hanoi to Lao Cai, and then you’ll need to take a 1 hour bus or taxi from Lao Cai to Sapa.

To return to Hanoi, you’ll need to use the same or different transportation option. 

How to Get Around Sapa

Sapa’s main area is small, so you can easily walk around to navigate the side streets and local attractions.

Taxis and motorbike taxis are available if you plan to visit the outskirts of Sapa. You can head to Sun Plaza and grab a taxi in front of the building. Or, you can hail one that is driving around the main town.

In the evenings, cyclos also offer rides around town. 

You can also rent a motorbike if you plan to explore the ethnic villages on your own. It’s a cost-effective way to travel around Sapa. 

Sapa Itinerary – Day 1: Explore the Town

You finally made it to Sapa from Hanoi!

Depending on your mode of transportation, you’ll arrive in Sapa either early in the morning (6:00am-7:00am) or in the afternoon (around 1:00pm).

Since the long travels may be tiring, we’re taking it easy on your first day in Sapa. After checking into your Sapa accommodation, we’re exploring the main attractions of Sapa town. 

1. Wander through the narrow streets of Sapa. 

When you arrive in Sapa Town, you’ll notice how touristy it is. It’s not the sleeper town it used to be as the area has been fully developed with hotels and restaurants. 

Yet, there are pockets of the town that are quieter . All you need to do is wear comfortable walking shoes and wander around the town.

You’ll see souvenir shops selling teas and trekking gear, shops selling roasted chestnuts and toasted bread made out of chestnuts, and plenty of cafes and restaurants. 

Sapa Town does have hills and stairs so you may end up going up or down a steep set of stairs. Or, you can turn around to take the main roads. 

Note: Google Maps may not be accurate as the construction of new hotels may have changed the walking paths. 

You’ll find lots of cafes and restaurants in Sapa.

2. Walk around Sapa Lake.

Close to the center of town is Sapa Lake. While the lake doesn’t look anything special, it’s a nice way to get some quietness and fresh air.

It’s a calm lake to walk around and you can stop by the cafes nearby.

In the late afternoon/evenings, there is a kiosk selling grilled skewered foods such as seafood and vegetables. 

3. Snap a photo in front of Sapa Station/Sun Plaza. 

Did the yellow building in the center of Sapa Town catch your eye? It’s the Sapa Plaza which has three levels.

The first floor is the Sapa Station to purchase tickets to Sun World Fansipan Legend and/or take the funicular up Muong Hoa to the Fansipan cable car station .

The second floor is shopping and the third floor has restaurants and a convenience store selling souvenirs, snacks, and drinks.

The Hôtel de la Coupole – MGallery also connects to the Sun Plaza. 

As one of the prettiest places in Sapa with the French architectural building and elegant decor inside, it’s no wonder visitors stop here to take photos. You’ll see many visitors take photos in front of the Sapa Station sign/door.

The evenings are also pretty to take photos.

Sapa Plaza is one of the highlights to visit during your 3 days in Sapa. It’s gorgeous in the evenings.

4. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral. 

One of the local attractions to visit in Sapa is the Notre Dame Cathedral . It’s located diagonally from the Sapa Plaza, and you can’t miss the brick construction.

This Catholic church was built in 1895 by the French and still offers services. During our visit, the church had Christmas decorations and lights which brightened the area. 

As a heads up, young children sell souvenirs and bracelets in front of the cathedral in the afternoons and evenings.

We suggest that you do not purchase souvenirs from children or take photos of them as they’re most likely not in school and receiving an education. 

Notre Dame Cathedral is a popular attraction to visit.

5. Take the cable car and visit Sun World Fansipan Legend. 

If you have a few extra hours available, consider taking the cable car up to Sun World Fansipan Legend . It’s one of the best Sapa attractions to visit!

You may recognize the name, “Sun World” as it’s one of the large entertainment companies in Vietnam that also produced popular theme parks such as Ba Na Hills and Danang Wonders in Danang . 

Fansipan is the highest mountain in Vietnam at 3,143 meters (10,312 feet) and is also the highest in Indochina (Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia.)

Previously, visitors would trek Fansipan in one or 2 days. (We hiked Fansipan and we’ll share more information about hiking it below).

Since the cable car’s opening in 2016, it now takes about 20 minutes to reach the Fansipan summit and Fansipan attractions, such as pagodas, Great Buddha, Lady Buddha (Guanyin) Statue, and more.

Visitors flock to the Fansipan signage which emphasizes the 3,143 meters. If the weather is clear, you’ll see the views of the Fansipan mountains.

Tip: Wear comfy walking shoes as you’ll walk up the stairs to reach these places.

To take the cable car, you can go to the Fansipan/Hoang Lien cable car station which is a 15-minute drive away from Sapa Town.

Or, take the Muong Hoa funicular from Sapa Station to Hoang Lien cable car station and then take the cable car to Fansipan Mountain.  Read more about taking the Fansipan funicular and cable car here .

Save money with your Fansipan Legend cable car tickets here. 

6. Visit Sapa Night Markets.

(Currently Closed) The Tinh Night Market ( Chợ Tình Sapa in Vietnamese) is located next to the Sapa Plaza and is an opportunity to buy souvenirs such as handmade handbags, bracelets, jewelry, and more. It’s an opportunity to support female vendors as they make their products. The Night Market opens after 7:00pm. 

There is another market, Sapa Market ( Chợ đêm Sapa ) that is 1.4 kilometers (.87 miles) away from Tinh Night Market. It’s recommended to take a taxi or you can take a stroll over to get there.

We passed by this place as we entered Sapa from Lao Cai City. It’s more of wholesale buying of goods and products.

Sapa Itinerary – Day 2 & 3: Trekking

On your second and third day in Sapa, it’s recommended to go on a trek to explore the iconic rice terraces and landscapes.

You’ll also get the chance to smell the crispy, fresh air and visit ethnic villages to meet the ethnic minority people and see how their lifestyles are.

In Sapa, there are five main ethnic Hmong, Dao, Xa Pho, Tay, and/or Day people. About half of the ethnic minority people are Hmong. 

We recommend that you do a 2 days trek with a 1 night at a homestay at a local family’s house . You can also do day trips if you prefer to not trek as long each day. 

Choose from a variety of treks such as visiting Cat Cat Village to Y Linh Ho, Sa Sen to Hau Thao, Lao Chai to Ta Van Village , and Ma Tra to Ta Phin Village . 

We highly recommend the trek from Sapa Town to Lao Chai and Ta Van Village. It’s a tranquil walk through rice terraces and the opportunity to see breathtaking views of the valley.

The trek isn’t too difficult as it’s mostly flat with some hills on paved and dirt paths. You’ll also get the chance to see a secret waterfall on the second day. 

Check out our experience of the 2 day trek to Lao Chai and Ta Van Village here. 

The daily treks include a local guide, water bottle, and meals (the number of meals depends on how many days you’re trekking). 

Recommendation for the trekking guide: Zaazaa from Zaazaa Trekking – We loved trekking with Zaazaa and you won’t be disappointed with her services. She is highly recommended as she is easy to work with and can tailor your trek as needed. We trekked with her twice on two different trips and loved the routes.

Don’t forget to pack hiking boots and hiking clothes. Hiking boots are necessary since you’ll walk through rice fields and they are muddy. 

Check out our Sapa trekking guide for helpful tips on how to prepare for a trek and how to choose a trekking guide. 

Trekking in Sapa is a must-do activity.

Sapa Itinerary – Other Places to Visit in Sapa

Sapa deserves at least 5 days of exploring if you have the time. If you have 4+ days in Sapa, add these other fun places to visit to extend your stay.

Climb Mount Fansipan. 

We mentioned that you can take the cable car to go to the Fansipan summit.

If you’re the adventurous type , try trekking Fansipan in 1 or 2 days. The challenging trek will push your body to climb the tallest mountain in Vietnam. The forest area is quiet and serene and you’ll encounter only a handful of other hikers on the trail. 

We hiked Fansipan in 1 day and it was pretty tough mentally and physically. Yet, it was such an accomplishment to reach the highest point of 3,143 meters (10,312 feet). 

Tip: Plan for this Fansipan trek on the first day of your Sapa itinerary and then go on your Sapa trek to ethnic villages for the rest of your itinerary. The Sapa trek is “easier” and will give your legs and knees the much-needed rest and recovery. 

If you hike in 2 days, you’ll stay overnight at a campsite. The trek includes a chef and porters so everything will be set up at your campsite. 

Trekking Mount Fansipan is a challenging activity to add to your Sapa itinerary.

Visit the Love & Silver Waterfalls. 

If you’re a waterfall chaser, then add these two Vietnam waterfalls – Love and Silver Waterfalls to the bucket list. 

Love Waterfall ( Suối Vàng Thác Tình Yêu in Vietnamese) requires a short 20-30 minutes of easy walking to reach the waterfall. The waterfall has a height of 100 meters.

Visitors love seeing this waterfall surrounded by the luscious forest area of Hoang Lien National Park .

This waterfall is near the Tram Tom entrance to trek Fansipan, so you could combine a visit if you’re a fast hiker. 

For an exhilarating experience in Sapa, you can also go canyoning off Love Waterfall.

Read more about our Love Watefall experience here.

Silver Waterfall ( Thác Bạc in Vietnamese) has waterfall cascades that are over 100 meters high. It’s easy to get to as it’s located off the main highway. Follow the walking path and stairways to see the Silver Waterfall up close.

Read about what to expect when visiting Silver Waterfall here.

To see both Love and Silver Waterfall in one day, check out this private tour option. 

Visit Bac Ha Market on Sundays.

One of the unique attractions to visit in Lao Cai is the Bac Ha Market ( Chợ Văn hóa Bắc Hà ).

It’s the largest market where ethnic minorities sell their colorful handicrafts and goods . Plus, it’s a picturesque place as you’ll see people in their colorful traditional outfits.

Since this market is only open on Sundays, it gets crowded with tourists. 

But you can also visit on Saturdays to see the horses and buffaloes for sale. It was originally on Sundays but too crowded.

You’ll need to organize a tour, hire a taxi, or drive a motorbike to get to this market as it’s about 2.5 hours one-way from Sapa. 

Read our Bac Ha Market guide to learn more.

Explore sapa heaven’s gate at o quy ho..

If you want more fresh air in Sapa, consider visiting Sapa’s Heaven Gate ( Khu Du Lịch Cổng Trời Ô Quy Hồ in Vietnamese).

This tourist area has lovely views of the mountain pass of O Quy Ho, picturesque sceneries, and its own version of Bali’s Pura Lempuyang gates.

The highest point at this tourist spot is 2,035 meters (6,675 feet), so you can take a photo with the triangular landmark that highlights the height above sea level.

Read our experience with Sapa’s Heaven Gate here.

Where to Eat in Sapa

Considering that Sapa Town isn’t large, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Choose from Vietnamese to Western-style food. Expect to pay around 130,000-200,000 VND ($5.60-$8.60 USD) for a dish. Most restaurants are cash-only. 

Popular Vietnamese foods to try in Sapa include salmon (which tastes more like trout since it’s leaner), sturgeon, dried buffalo, horse meat, and sticky rice in a bamboo stick. 

One thing that we noticed was that many of the successful restaurants get copied, whether it’s the name or the items that they sell. We saw four hot pot restaurants next to each other on the main road, Ngu Chi Son Road.

Also, Muong Hoa Road has many sellers located only a few feet away from each other grilling sweet potato, corn, and other snack items in the evenings. 

Here are some of the Sapa restaurants that we tried and enjoyed. We followed the trend of visiting restaurants with “Good Morning” in the name. 

Good Morning Vietnam – Located off Fansipan Street, this restaurant has some delicious Vietnamese cuisine.

We ordered sizzling deer and a sizzling salmon plate. The salmon had a sweet teriyaki sauce which was highly addicting. Both dishes were delicious and our clothes smelled like the sizzling platter afterward.

If you need more rice, feel free to ask for extra. 

Address: 63B Fansipan, street, Sa Pa, Lào Cai

Try these mouthwatering foods at Good Morning Restaurant.

Good Morning View Restaurant – This restaurant is in the quieter part of Muong Hoa. During lunchtime, this place advertises beef noodle soup. We came for dinner and ate some delicious food. 

Try the refreshing papaya salad and salmon spring rolls as appetizers. We loved the salmon spring rolls since it was also stuffed with dried wood ear mushrooms, carrots, and other vegetables.

The sizzling sturgeon platter and trout in banana leaf are also tasty main dishes. The sturgeon was interesting since it has a curry flavor. You can also ask for more rice if needed. 

Address: 047 Mường Hoa, TT. Sa Pa, Sa Pa, Lào Cai 333100

Good Morning Sapa – We were impressed with the number of salmon dishes offered at this place.

The sizzling salmon with peppercorn platter is a winner and the sauce was finger-licking good.

We also had a platter of mixed vegetables and a bowl of shrimp coconut curry.

Unfortunately, the curry didn’t come inside a coconut. It also had a more Japanese-ish flavor and a slight sweetness from the coconut milk. 

On the weekends, this restaurant also offers BBQ skewered foods such as fish balls and vegetables. You can pick some up as a snack on your way to and from the main town. 

Address: 014 Mường Hoa, TT. Sa Pa, Sa Pa, Lào Cai

Good Morning Sapa is a delicious spot to try when you’re in Sapa.

Where to Stay in Sapa

Due to Sapa’s increase in tourism, there are hotels and guesthouses everywhere in the main city center. You can get a room at a reasonable price of $30 USD per night for 2 person occupancy.

There are also luxury eco-hotels available that are outside of the city and will require transportation. 

Check out Sapa accommodation options here on Booking.

Click to check pricing and availability on Agoda.

Here are two budget-friendly Sapa accommodations that we stayed at:

My Boutique Hotel and Spa – This boutique hotel is one of the best places to stay in Sapa!

The location is about a 10-minute walk away from the Sapa Plaza and is quieter. The rooms are chic and have beautiful furniture and decor. The bathrooms also have a separate tub and shower.

You may never want to leave the room since the bed is way too comfortable and so cozy, especially on a cold night.

We opted to not have breakfast included in the meal as there are restaurants along the street to find something to eat. The cost per night starts at $38 for a 2 person occupancy. 

Reserve a room at My Boutique Hotel here on Booking. 

Check pricing and availability on Agoda here.

Address: 55 Mường Hoa, TT. Sa Pa, Sa Pa, Lào Cai

Sapa Relax Hotel and Spa – The central location of this hotel is one of the reasons to stay here.

You’re only a few minutes walk from the Sapa Plaza and can see the building outside of the hotel entrance.

The rooms are large and comfortable. Breakfast is included in the room cost and consists of a buffet line of stir-fried noodles, fried rice, vegetables, sausages, eggs, and made to order noodle soup. The cost per night starts at $28 for 2 people. 

Reserve a room at Sapa Relax Hotel here.  

Check pricing and availability for Sapa Relax on Agoda here.

Address: 19A Đông Lợi, TT. Sa Pa, Sa Pa, Lào Cai

Prefer the luxury accommodation options in Sapa ? Check out Topas Ecolodge , Topas Riverside Lodge , and Sapa Clay House .

These are popular eco-friendly and luxurious places that overlook the mountainous region. They have an in-house restaurant and swimming pool. Expect to pay $130-$500+ per night for a room with 2 person occupancy.

On a return visit to Sapa, we’ll try one of these places as they have positive reviews and are highly recommended in the Ho Chi Minh City Expat Facebook groups.

Final Thoughts

It’s time to say goodbye to your fun three days in Sapa. It’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vietnam and you won’t regret visiting here.

We hope you enjoyed this itinerary and are inspired to plan your Sapa trip in the future. 

If you need more tips on planning a trip to Vietnam, check out our posts below:

• Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam
• How to Apply for a Vietnam e-Visa
• Explore Vietnam in 7 Days & Different Itinerary Ideas

Which places are you the most excited to visit in Sapa? If you have other questions, ask in the comment box below. 

Like this post? Save it to your Vietnam Pinterest board!

Featured photo credit: empty_vectorist via Depositphotos.com

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

Sapa Trekking Guide: How to Prepare for Epic Treks in Sapa, Vietnam

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Sapa is high up on my bucket list! I had no idea it was an actual town because you pretty much only see rice terrace pictures when looking up Sapa! Very cool read. So excited to get to go one day.

Thanks Linda! Sapa is such a pretty area to take photos. I know you’ll love your experience here.

What a gorgeous place!!

Hi Kristina. Sapa is too beautiful! We know you’ll love visiting in the future!

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