ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELING TO SAPA – TOP ATTRACTIONS IN SAPA THAT YOU MUST VISIT

Sapa is a top destination for travelers seeking scenic landscapes, which is nestled in the misty mountains of northern Vietnam. This is cultural diversity and a peaceful retreat from bustling city life. I will introduce you to the travel guide to Sapa, as well as the top attractions in this city that you must visit.

Sapa is gradually becoming a hot tourist destination in Vietnam.

1. Where is Sapa

Sapa is located in the Lao Cai Province, about 320 kilometers northwest of Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital. The town sits in the Hoang Lien Son Mountain range, close to the border with China.

Famous for its terraced rice fields, stunning mountain vistas, and the rich culture of ethnic minority groups such as the Hmong, Dao, and Tay people, Sapa offers visitors an authentic rural experience.

Sa Pa attracts visitors thanks to the beauty of many other destinations.

2. How to get there?

There are several ways to reach Sapa from Hanoi:

-By Train: The overnight train from Hanoi to Lao Cai (the closest major town to Sapa) is a popular choice. The journey takes around 7-9 hours. From Lao Cai, it’s a 1-hour drive (38 kilometers) to Sapa by taxi. Train tickets range from 160.000 to 800.000 VND (6.4 to 32 USD) depending on seat class and train type.

-By Bus: Many travelers opt for direct sleeper buses from Hanoi to Sapa. These buses are comfortable, take about 6-7 hours, and drop you off right in Sapa town. This is the most cost-effective and convenient option for most visitors. The price ranges from 230.000 – 350.000 VND (9.2 to 14 USD) per person, depending on seat class. Travel time is about 5 – 6 hours.

-By Car: For those seeking more comfort and flexibility, you take Noi Bai – Lao Cai highway, then turn onto the 4D road to Sa Pa. The journey by car takes approximately 5-6 hours.

3. The ideal time to visit Sapa

Sa Pa has a cool climate, making it a great destination for travel at any time of the year. However, it’s best to avoid the rainy season from June to early August due to the risk of extreme weather like flash floods and landslides.

From February to May, Sa Pa enters a vibrant spring, with hundreds of flowers like cherry blossoms, peach, and plum trees in full bloom. The summer months, from June to August, are ideal for escaping the heat and enjoying the lush, cool green terraced fields.

From September to November, autumn is another ideal period to visit Sapa, as the rice terraces turn golden during harvest season. Clear skies and mild temperatures make for excellent hiking conditions and stunning photo opportunities.

Autumn is the ideal time to visit Sapa.

4. Top attractions in Sapa that you must visit

4.1. Stone Church

Stone Church situated in the heart of Sapa town, was constructed in 1895. It showcases Roman Gothic architecture, featuring arches, spires, and a bell tower. As one of the last surviving structures from the French colonial era, the church remains well-preserved and stands as a historical landmark.

Stone Church in Sapa attracts many locals and tourists.

The entire church is primarily constructed from stone, including its walls, floors, towers, and bell areas, all held together by a mixture of lime, sand, and molasses. Spanning more than 6,000 square meters, the Sapa Stone Church is fully outfitted with various rooms designated for different functions.

Stepping inside, you’ll be captivated by the intricate European-style design. The Gothic architectural style is meticulously applied to every detail of the church. Its overall structure and design follow a cross-shaped layout, characteristic of the ancient Roman Gothic style.

The beauty of ancient architecture is very ancient.

Address: Ham Rong Ward, Sapa District, Lao Cai Province.

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.

4.2. Fansipan Mount

Fansipan Mount, located on Hoang Lien Son Mountain range, the highest mountain range in the system of three countries Vietnam – Laos – Cambodia, it is known as “Roof of Indochina”. When visit Fanispan, you’ll be swept up by a sense of excitement and a deep desire to conquer this towering mountain. The fresh, pleasant air offers a peaceful escape from the busy pace of life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the majestic and poetic beauty of nature.

Fansipan with an altitude of 3,143 meters.

At the base of the mountain, you’ll find yourself surrounded by Coc Leu, with numerous cotton and jackfruit trees blanketing the area. As you ascend, the dense and wild primeval forests unfold around you, showcasing their raw grandeur. At elevations of 700 meters and higher, you’ll encounter towering gymnosperm trees, some reaching 50-60 meters in height and hundreds of years old, with trunks so large that it takes 3-4 people to wrap their arms around them. At an altitude of 2,800 meters, you can admire the resilient bamboo trees, standing firm against the cold.

Winter (November – January) is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for you to see snow falling in Fansipan.

There are 2 ways to conquer Fansipan Peak: climbing the mountain and taking the cable car:

+Going by cable car: Once you arrive at the Fansipan Legend tourist area, you will go to the cable car station to buy tickets at the price of 700.000 VND/adult (28 USD) and 500.000 VND/child (20 USD) (this is the round-trip ticket price).

+Mountain climbing: If you are an adventurous person, you can choose to conquer Fansipan peak by climbing the mountain. This distance is very far and dangerous, requiring you to have good health, proficient climbing skills and a strong spirit to overcome because the journey to climb Fansipan can last from 2 to 7 days.

Address: Fansipan is 9km from Sapa Center.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

4.3. Ta Phin Village

Ta Phin Village is like a hidden gem nestled among limestone mountains and lush green trees. Home to the H’mong and Dao ethnic communities, it offers an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature, while enjoying the view of verdant terraced fields.

Ta Phin Village

As you follow the winding road leading to Ta Phin, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the majestic Hoang Lien Son Mountain range. With its untouched beauty, Ta Phin Village is a must-visit destination on any journey to explore the misty town of Sapa.

In addition, when you visit Ta Phin Village, you can explore Ta Phin Cave, Ta Phin Monastery, and experience the life with local people here.

Explore Ta Phin Cave

Living space inside Ta Phin community house.

Address: Ta Phin Town, Lao Cai Province.

Opening Hours: open 24 hours.

4.4. Muong Hoa Valley

Muong Hoa Valley is situated in Hau Thao commune, approximately 10 kilometers southeast of Sapa town. It is predominantly inhabited by ethnic groups such as the Red Dao, Giay, and Black H’mong. To reach Muong Hoa Valley, visitors must traverse winding roads flanked by towering mountain ranges. Though the journey can be challenging due to the curving roads, the stunning scenery along the way makes the experience truly rewarding.

The stunning beauty of Muong Hoa Valley – Sapa ancient stone field

Muong Hoa Valley is a famous tourist destination possessing romantic beauty with winding streams, endless terraced fields and especially the famous ancient stone fields here.

The terraced fields in Muong Hoa valley are truly stairs to heaven, not everywhere you can see them.

You can visit the brocade stalls bearing the national identity of the Northwest people.

Address: Hau Thao Commune, Lao Cai Province.

Opening Hours: open 24 hours.

4.5. Cat Cat Village

Cat Cat Village is nestled at the foot of Muong Hoa Valley and is inhabited by the H’mong people. This village was established in the 19th century when various H’mong and Dzao families came together to settle in the area. They began to cultivate rice and corn while also engaging in weaving and crafting handmade items.

Cat Cat Village – A unique cultural picture in the Northwest

The traditional H’mong houses in Cat Cat Village feature three rooms with three doors, topped with Po mu wood roofs. Inside, three columns are supported by either round or square stone bases, and the walls are made of sawn timber. The main door remains closed most of the time and is only opened during significant occasions.

Weaving linen is an ancient profession of the H’Mong people.

Gau Tao Festival of the H’Mong People.

Address: Hoang Lien Commune, Lao Cai Province.

Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.

Entrance Fee: 90.000 VND/Adult (3.6 USD) and 50.000 VND/Children height from 1m to 1m4 (2 USD).

4.6. Silver Waterfall

Silver Waterfall is a poetic name describing the white waterfall pouring down the stream, looking like a silver strip suspended in the middle of the fresh, green Sapa forest.

Silver Waterfall

With a height of 200m, Thac Bac possesses a beautiful and rare scenery, so it is always named in the list of the most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam.

Any time of year can make your trip to explore Silver Waterfall an interesting experience.

Address: San Sa Ho Commune, Lao Cai Province.

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

Entrance Fee: 20.000 VND/person (0.8 USD)

4.7. Ham Rong Mountain

Ham Rong Mountain is a prominent landmark situated right in the heart of Sapa town. This mountain is renowned for its unique natural landscape, which boasts a diverse array of flowers and lush grasses that bloom vibrantly throughout the year. As you ascend Ham Rong Mountain, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking scenery, where colorful blossoms and verdant vegetation create a picturesque backdrop.

Panoramic view of Ham Rong Mountain from above.

The journey to the summit is a delightful experience, one of the highlights of Ham Rong Mountain is its observation deck, which offers some of the most stunning panoramic views of Sapa town and the surrounding landscapes.

Magnificent natural beauty that few places can compare to Ham Rong Mountain.

From this vantage point, visitors can gaze out over the terraced rice fields, the majestic Hoang Lien Son Mountain range, and the quaint streets of Sapa, all set against the backdrop of a sky often adorned with swirling clouds. The view is particularly enchanting during sunrise and sunset, when the soft light casts a warm glow over the valley.

Address: located right next to Sapa town, behind Sapa Stone Church, in Hoang Lien Son range.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

Entrance Fee: 70.000 VND/person (2.8 USD)

4.8. Hill Tribe Market

Hill tribe markets offer a one-of-a-kind experience during your stay in Sapa. When you arrive, take some time to explore the market, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, and practice your bargaining skills with the friendly local vendors.


Bac Ha Market

Thousands of individuals from various ethnic groups, such as the Black Zao, Tay, Phu La, and Flower H’mong, attend the market dressed in their beautiful traditional clothing, turning the event into a vibrant festival. The market features a diverse array of products, including embroidered garments, handicrafts, agricultural goods, and delicious local cuisine.


Handcrafted souvenirs are sold at cheap prices from only 20.000 to 50.000 VND (0.8 to 2 USD).

Hill tribe markets occur on different days of the week. Here are some of the popular markets in Sapa that you shouldn’t miss: Bac Ha Market, Muong Hum Market, Coc Ly Market, and Cao Son Market.

Here is the address of the markets:

Bac Ha Market: Bac Ha District, Lao Cai Province. This market far 65km from city center (Open from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Sunday).
Muong Hum Market: Bat Xat District, Lao Cai Province. This market far 44km from city center (Open from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Sunday).

Coc Ly Market:  Bac Ha District, Lao Cai Province. This market far 30km from city center (Open 24 hours on Tuesday).

Cao Son Market: Muong Khuong District, Lao Cai Province. This market far 80km from city center (Open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Monday – Tuesday and Thursday – Friday).

4.9. Hoang A Tuong Palace

Hoang A Tuong Palace was once the most prominent residence in the Bac Ha region during the French colonial era. It features a blend of Asian and European architectural styles, designed and built by French and Chinese architects.

A harmonious combination of European and Asian styles.

To access the rooms inside the mansion, one must ascend the stairs on either side, leading to a waiting room. From there, visitors are greeted by a spacious courtyard, historically used for conducting ceremonies, performing rituals, and hosting entertainment, including dancing and singing during gatherings.

Inside the mansion there are not only living rooms and offices but also a courtroom and prisoner cells.

Additionally, one section of the rooms displays indigenous handicrafts, such as brocade garments, skirts, necklaces, and traditional pipes.

Address: Bac Ha District, Lao Cai Province.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

Entrance Fee: 20.000 VND/person (0.8 USD)

4.10. Ta Van Rattan Bridge

Ta Van Rattan Bridge located in Ta Van village, is about 17 kilometers southeast of Sapa town. From the main road, you can take a 3-kilometer trail to reach the bridge.

Ta Van Rattan Bridge

Spanning the picturesque Muong Hoa River, this bridge stands out for its unique construction using rattan. If you visit early in the morning, the fog often envelops the bridge, giving the sensation of walking among the clouds. This ethereal experience makes Ta Van Rattan Bridge a popular spot for visitors looking to capture and cherish these magical moments.

Address: Ta Van Commune, Sapa. It is about 10km from Sa Pa town center.

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.