Sapa is a one of Vietnam’s most popular destinations, but with no nearby airport the only option for getting there is to travel by road or rail and, despite being only 380 kilometres from Hanoi, it’s a time-consuming exercise whichever route you take, so choose carefully.
If you want more freedom and flexibility and are prepared to pay for it, then car hire is a good option. The car can stay with you throughout your trip and ferry you around — for example, to Bac Ha market, Cat Cat village, Ta Van Village, Lao Chai Village, the heaven gate, cathedral, etc. it’s going to take five hours to reach Sapa from Hanoi City through new high way, with some rest stops en route — it’s also safer than travelling at night. A car is only really viable if you have some time to spare but can really open up the options in terms of places to visit and experiences.