sa pa vietnam tourist attractions

• Customized Tour

Sapa Attractions

Sapa is one of the top attractions in Northern Vietnam. This charming town was built as a hill station by the French in 1920. Its original name was “Sa Pả” in H’mong language, meaning “Land”. When French came, they wrote “Chapa” because “S” is pronounced almost as same as “Ch” in French, “Sh” in English.

Located approximately 1500 meters above the sea, Sapa carries moderate and rainy weather in the summer, while being cold and occasionally snowy during the winter. Surrounded by dramatic gorges and stepped rice terraces, the landscapes around Sapa are some of northern Vietnam’s most striking. Once you’ve stepped out into the lush fields, you’ll understand the Sapa area’s real charm.

Sapa is home of more than a dozen hill tribes people, making it the most culturally diverse area in the country. There are five main groups living throughout the valleys of Sapa: Hmong, Yao, Zay, Tay and Xa Pho people. Surrounded by mountains and valleys; Sapa is a popular trekking base in Vietnam with spectacular landscapes.

Travel consultants at Vietnam Travel can design a day tour or a couple days packages for you and your family. Below are the top 15 attractions you should visit in Sapa.

Table of Contents

1. Muong Hoa Valley

2. fansipan mount, 3. ta phin village, 4. lao chai village, 5. ta van village, 6. y linh ho village, 7. cat cat village, 8. sin chai village, 9. ban ho village, 10. silver waterfall, 11. tram ton pass, 12. sapa ancient rock field, 13. stone church – most famous attraction in sapa, 14. ham rong mountain, 15. hill tribe markets around sapa.

Located just over 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Sapa, the emerald green Muong Hoa Valley (Thung Lũng Mường Hoa) features some of the most breathtakingly picturesque landscapes in Vietnam. This valley is home to many ethnic groups such as H’Mong, Ta Van, Tay…with Muong Hoa stream stretching 15 km, passing through the towns of Lao Chai, Ta Van, Hau Thao and ends at Ban Ho. Muong Hoa valley is one of the biggest rice-growing areas in the region. The rolling emerald hills, epic views and fascinating traditional villages are just part of what greets travelers who opt to trek here.

With a height of 3,143m, Fansipan is the highest mountain in the Indochinese Peninsula (including Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia), so it has its nickname “the Roof of Indochina”. Mount Fansipan is part of the Hoang Lien Son Mountain range and it watches over the terraced rice fields and ethnic villages.

Related post : • Sapa Weather – Best time to visit • Sapa Attractions

To conquer the Fansipan peak is a target of many trekking lovers. There are several options for all types of travelers that allow you to see the beautiful summit of Mount Fansipan. It depends on your desired level of adventure, fitness, and time frame. Treks range from one to four days. If you want to complete the trek in one day, you should be ready to go early with your things ready and you should be in good health.

If you don’t like hiking, there is always the cable car option. To some of you, this Fansipan Legend Cable Car may also seem like an adventure since it spans 6,292.5 meters, making it the longest three-rope and non-stop cable car out there. Not only that, it also holds the record for highest elevation gain with 1,410 meters for three-rope cable cars. It sweeps through clouds with views over Muong Hoa Valley, and through the magnificent peaks of Hoang Lien Son Range.

WORKING HOURS Start: 7:30 A.M – End: 17:30 PRICE Adult and child (taller than 1.3m): 35 USD/ person Child : 20 USD/ person.

Red Dao people living there still keep strong customs: arranged weddings where the price of the bride can still reach a decent amount of old Indochina silver piasters; the use of roots and plants to dye silk threads in bright yellow or dark orange; harvesting medicinal plants in the jungle in order to make their traditional herbal bath. The most distinguishing feature of the Red Dao is their large red headdress worn by the woman (younger girls wear a smaller version).

Hmong people usually live in smaller houses and grow hemp and indigo plants. They turn these plants into stunning pieces of clothing and souvenirs for the village visitors. Ta Phin is a great place for trekking. Travel to Ta Phin, you will meet locals working on the rice field, see traditional house, visit caves and enjoy traditional medicine bath.

Entrance fee: – 40,000VNĐ/adult – 20,000VNĐ/child from 1,4m – Child under 1,4m: Free

Located 6km from Sapa town, Lao Chai is home to Black H’mong people. It is also the beginning of Muong Hoa valley. This village is covered with large terraces so you can go trekking through terrace fields and streams, enjoy fresh air and know more about the culture of the Black Hmong ethnic.

Not only enjoying the beauty of terraced fields, visitors to Lao Chai village also have the opportunity to explore the daily life of the ethnic people in the village. Although there have been some more modern items, the people here still keep their traditional farming lifestyles. They still raise pigs, plant cotton, weave brocade, and cultivate rice on terraced fields like previous generations.

Entering the houses of H’mong people here, you can see their living space is decorated with brocades on the door, on the table and on the floor. Some houses still have old horns, or wooden bells for buffalo neck … Almost their living space has not changed after decades of living here.

In particular, visitors to Lao Chai village can also enjoy special dishes made from the materials they grow. Imagine in the chilly space of the Sapa mountains, it is great to enjoy some smoke buffalo meat with corn wine.

Entrance fee: (to Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai & Ta Van) – 75,000VNĐ/person

Next to Lao Chai Village is Ta Van Village. Ta Van village is home to the Giay people, one of Sapa’s ethnic minorities. Located close to Sapa town (about 12km) and surrounded by beautiful scenery, Ta Van village makes it the perfect trekking destination. The pace is slow here, food is delicious, locals are curious and friendly, and homestay options plentiful.

There are a couple of routes you can take through the woods and rice fields. Most of them are straight forward loops around Ta Van village but the paths can get muddy and slippery during the wet season. Before you go, pack some snacks and plenty of water, there aren’t any shops along the way until you cross the suspension bridge back into the village. Also, wear good walking boots, grab a pair of bamboo sticks to help you trek through the sloping bits of the hike and pack a waterproof jacket. The mist and rain, especially during the wet season, will be your constant companions alongside the curious locals.

The major work of the Giay is growing rice. Besides, they also produce instruments and engraved silver. They live in both stilted houses and common houses with a solemn central part which is served as a place for ancestor altar and guest reception. Costumes of the Giay are simple: women with short dress, wearing cloth bag with embroidered flowers; man also wears pants and shirt. Coming here, visitors can enjoy some special dishes of ethnic Giay such as: roast fish of Muong Hum, horse meat of Muong Khuong, sticky rice of Van Ban… and enjoy festivals, folk games of the Giay: Nao Cong, Roong Pooc…

Staying with the local families will be one of the most unique experiences in Ta Van Village. The tribal communities in the village are friendly and accommodating and they cook up some delicious food!

This beautiful village is located right by the Muong Hoa River about 7 km southwest of Sapa town. It is one of the most visited destinations among tourists and well known for homestay accommodations. Y Linh Ho village is mostly inhabited by Black H’mong hill tribes and they live in their wooden and bamboo houses.

Y Linh Ho is a small commune composed by a dozens of small hamlets scattering on the very tough mountain terrain with high and steep mountains. According to the elders in the village, the name of Y Linh Ho was named under the name of Mr. Ly Linh Ho – the first man who set up the village. It is said that several Dao people led by Mr. Ly Linh Ho reclaimed the area surrounding Y Linh Ho Village. After a long time of living and building, a new village of Dao people was formed and called Y Linh Ho.

After a period of time, the Dao people in Y Linh Ho started to migrate and the Mong people arrived in the village but the name of Y Linh Ho was still the name of the village to commemorate the person who built the village today.

The location of Y Linh Ho Village is far from the main road. Therefore, you need to pass a quite long, far and winding road to reach it. However, thanks to the isolated location, the village is rather tranquil and peaceful.

The most popular trekking tour is a tour that combines 3 villages: Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai and Ta Van. Please contact our travel consultant at Vietnam Travel to have a better advice.

Cat Cat village lies at the bottom of the Muong Hoa Valley where H’mong people live. This village was formed in the 19th century, after various ethnic H’Mong and Dzao families came together to settle here. They started cultivating rice and corn in the region, as well as weaving fabric and creating handicrafts.

Cat Cat Village is famous for its breathtaking scenery, waterfalls, water mills, and rice terraces in the surrounding areas. Located only 3 km away from Sapa, Cat Cat village is a perfect stop on your trekking route through Sapa as it offers breathtaking views: rice terraces, waterfalls, water mills, and streams.

Traditional houses of H’Mong people in Cat Cat have three rooms with three doors and covered with Po mu wood roof. In the house there are three columns that stand in round or square stones. The walls are made from sawn timber. The main door is always closed and only opens for important events.

Trekking through this village, you will see women stitching colorful pieces of brocade while children play around with pets or even livestock that are temporary pets. They collect hemp, cotton, and linen from the forest to use as material for clothes, and the silk from silkworms is used for embroidery. The colors are also made naturally—yellow from turmeric, black from a local leaf, red and brown from the rind of local leaves, and blue from indigo leaves. Cat Cat is known for its indigo dyeing technique that you can experience when you are here. Many people here are also skilled at creating gold and silver jewelry.

To have an overall experience about Cat Cat and to avoid touristic places, contact Vietnam Travel to book a tour with a local guide.

Entrance fee: – 70,000VNĐ/adult – 30,000VNĐ/child

About 5km from Sapa, Sin Chai Village is known to be magically unspoiled and less touristy than other villages in Sapa town. Like the other villages mentioned above, Sin Chai is surrounded by a spectacular natural scenery with fantastic mountain views that could even make hardest hearts melt away. The terraced rice fields are immaculate and offer some amazing Instagram shots. Scattered throughout this breathtaking scene are lovely wooden houses of the locals, the architecture makes it easier to cultivate and take care of the farming.

Sin Chai village also has a unique feature. Visit during March, April, September, or October, and you can have one of the most unique experiences when traveling to this region of Vietnam. Because of its suitable weather condition, March and April are when farmers in Sin Chai start planting their field crops. You’ll admire marvelous rice terraces perfectly layered and completely soaked in water. With a little sunshine, it will burst even more beautifully in mirror-like and sparkling fields. These crops will be ready to harvest in September and October, which then turn into magnificent golden fields across the mountain range. Take as much time as you need to immerse in the scenes and enjoy this village to the fullest.

Sin Chai is a village of the Red Dao ethnic people, whose women wear beautifully embroidered clothes with distinctive silver jewelry and an enormous red turban.

Entrance fee: – 40,000VNĐ/adult – 20,000VNĐ/child

Ban Ho, 30 kilometers southwest from Sapa, is a lovely village where the Mong, Dao, Tay, and Giay tribe living. Leaning against the poetic Muong Hoa valley, it’s definitely a paradise that encourages a relaxing mood. Besides, the local people here are truly amazing. No fake smiles, no lies, they always speak their thoughts and treat you like their family member.

Coming to Ban Ho, visitors not only admire the scenery of nature, space and poetic architecture, unique architecture from the wood flooring attached to the life of ethnic people but also live in a warm, friendly environment, also participate in community activities.

Entrance fee: 75,000VNĐ/person

Thac Bac Waterfall is formed by sources of water from the Lo Sui Tong mountain peak. From the distance, the waterfall looks like a white dragon looking down from the sky. From there you can see stunning view of the surrounding mountains and the last forests belonging to Hoang Lien National Park

Thac Bac waterfall is a breathtaking scenery with white water cascading down from the top. The surrounding is filled with beautiful nature. It is recommended to spend about 30-45 minutes at Silver Waterfall before continuing on to see more tourist spots in the Sapa.

Entrance fee: 20,000VNĐ/person

Just a few km from Silver waterfall is Tram Ton pass – on the northern side of Mt Fansipan, 15km from Sapa. It’s Vietnam’s highest mountain pass at 1900m height, connecting Sapa and Lai Chau Province. It is considered as a dividing line between two climatic zones. On the Sapa side it’s often cold and foggy, but drop a few hundred meters onto the Lai Chau side and it can be sunny and warm. Amazingly, Sapa is the coldest place in Vietnam, but Lai Chau is one of the warmest.

They called Tram Ton pass – the Heaven Gate due to its picturesque landscapes and magnificence resemble a gate to the Heaven. The lookout points here have fantastic views in clear weather.

Ancient rock field in Sapa is a unique spot situated in Muong Hoa valley where the tourists can explore its interesting history and take photo. In 1925, Russian French archaeologist of the French School of the Far East discovered this ancient rock field which was considered as a testament to the appearance of prehistoric people.

Ancient Sapa rock field stretches over Muong Hoa valley, about 8 km from the center of Sapa town and has an area of about 8 km2 with nearly 200 stone blocks. Sapa ancient rock is a valuable heritage of the Northwest. Over nearly 100 years since being discovered, the ancient rock has increasingly attracted a large number of domestic and international visitors to admire. On the stones in the ancient rock field also owns unique and fancy images such as terraces, human figures, stilt houses, roads or written letters are clearly carved. But sometimes it has unclear images. Each pattern carved on the stone makes visitors and researchers curious, horned by the mystery.

Besides, according to historical and ethnographic documents, these carvings seem to be part of the prehistoric records of the old period, and each stone is a life story, activities of the ancients. Over the years, the ancient Sapa rock field is still a magical mystery that no one has been able to decode correctly and completely. But the rock will always be a challenge waiting for researchers to find an answer. So, when traveling to Sapa, you should go to the ancient rock field Muong Hoa valley to learn, discover and admire that precious heritage!

Stone church is located in the heart of Sapa town built by the French from the early 20th century. The church has many names such as Sapa ancient stone church, stone church or Holly Rosary Church.

The stone church was built from stone, in the style of Roman Gothic architecture. According to some documents, the church was built with the front door facing to the sunrise as it is said that the East is the direction to welcome the light of God. The back of this church faces to the West – the birthplace of God Kito.

With the area of more than 6.000m2, the church area consists of 7 compartments of more than 500 m2, the bell-tower is 20m high. Especially, there is a bell with the height of 1.5 m and the weight of 500 kg in the bell-tower. Although being built since1932, until now it has been well preserved and even the words carved on the surface of the bell are not damanged.

Nowadays, Sapa Stone Church is not only a religious destination for local people as well as tourists, but also a main site for holding many cultural traditional activities of the ethnic people here. This is also the place where every Saturday local boys and girls gather here in a special marker called “love market” to find lovers.

In the quiet atmosphere of the evening in the highland, the sounds of the traditional instruments of the ethnic people such as flute, trumpet, lip lute, pan flute mix with the featured dances of the ethnic girls and guys will be an unforgettable experience.

Located right at the center of Sapa, Ham Rong is a famous destinations for visitors. Its peak looks like a head of a dragon so they called it Ham Rong moutain or (dragon jaw mountain in English) Here you will find a cool and serene place to go for a walk although there are a lot of steps that lead you up the mountain top where you can see the panorama of Sapa from above.

If you are flowers lovers, visiting this place is a good choice as many flowers are growed here. To the top of this moutain, you wil passby: Orchid garden, Peach garden… which are amazingly beautiful when blooming.

Some thousands peoples from ethnic groups including Black Zao, Tay, Phu La and Flower H’mong wearing their best traditional clothes attend the market to turn it into a kind of festival. Commodity sold at the market is varied from embroidered clothes, handicraft, farming produces , food… to poultry and cattle such as vegetable, spices, chili, chicken, cat, piggy, doggy… At the market place, after finishing their shopping, people gathered into groups at footstalls or drinking corn wine and talking cheerfully.

Fair markets of hill tribe people will be held on different days. Below are some famous fair markets in Sapa that you must see when you are here:

1. Bac Ha Market on Sunday 2. Muong Hum on Sunday 3. Coc Ly Market on Tuesday 4. Cao Son Market on Wednesday 5. Lung Khau Nhin Market on Thursday 6. Can Cau Market on Saturday

Related Posts

Things to do in Sapa

Sapa in Green Season

Rice Terraces in Sapa & Photo Tour

When is the best time to visit Sapa?

8 famous local markets around Sapa

Hanoi To Sapa By Train

Hi! Yes I m travelling to Hanoi this March. There are 6-7 people and we hope to do Sa Pa in 2D1N. I have 3 questions: A. Can a DCar ie. mini-bus be arranged just for my group? B. Can the following places be included in the itinerary: 1. Muong Hoa valley 2. Fansipan 3. Thac Bac waterfall 4. Ham Rong Mountain 5. Stone church

Leave a Comment Cancel comment

Request a free quote, thank you we have received your travel request. you will receive an email shortly. please check your email and verify the information. your request will be processed after your confirmation..

You have chosen a tour duration longer than 20 days. Please specify the exact number of days you want to travel in the message box below, so that we can have enough information and make a program for you. Thank you for your cooperation.

You have selected a number of travellers greater than 20. Please let us know the exact number of people in your group in the message box below so that we can quote you accurately. Thank you for your cooperation.

You have selected a number of travellers and duration greater than 20. Please let us know the exact number of people in your group and the exact number of days in the message box below so that we can quote you accurately. Thank you for your cooperation.

• Vietnam Travel Guides
• Travel Planning
• Festivals & Events
• Food & Drinks
• Tourist Maps
• Travel Blog
• Travel News

Our Recommendations

Guideline to get Vietnam E-visa

Vietnam Weather: General information & Best Time to Visit

50 Things You should Know before Traveling to Vietnam

Best Vietnam Private Tours you should know before traveling

Info for travelers on Covid-19 in Vietnam: Entry requirements & Restrictions

You May Also Like

Quan Thanh Temple

Book private car when travel Vietnam

9 Tourist Attractions You Definitely Want to Visit in Danang

Vietnam Festivals

Danang Dragon Bridge

Things to do in Mekong Delta

Places to spend your Christmas in Hanoi

Tam Coc – Bich Dong: A Quick Guide

Vietnamese Culture

Home » Travel Guides » Vietnam » 25 Best Things to Do in Sapa (Vietnam)

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

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

You may also like

Nearby places.

• How To Get There

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.

In this article:

Aristo International Hotel

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

• You are here:
• Places To Go
• Northern Vietnam

Create an account

Already have an account? Click here to sign in

By clicking submit, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use

Sign in with your social accounts

Sign in with your email

Forgot password? Click here to get it back

Don't have an account? Sign up here

Forgot Password

The entered email has subscribed for Vietnam Tourism monthly newsletter

The Top 11 Things to Do in Sapa, Vietnam

Sapa, Vietnam sits at the heights of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, a six-hour drive northwest of Hanoi. That distance is emblematic of the vast gulf between the Vietnamese capital and Sapa: the built-upness of the city versus Sapa’s wide open spaces, city brusqueness versus the warmth of Sapa’s tribes. Expect to get a workout if you’re planning a visit—Sapa is well-known for its long hiking trails to scenic villages, rice terraces, and mountain viewpoints. With eight ethnic minority groups residing here—including the Hmong, Dao (Yao), Giáy, Pho Lu, and Tày—you'll get to experience a variety of cultures as well.

Read on to find out what to expect if you take the time to visit Sapa. Set aside several days for your trip because there’s a lot to see and do! 

Trek to Fansipan Peak

Huynh Thanh Huy / Getty Images

The highest mountain in Indochina rises about 10,300 feet above sea level. Despite its soaring height, Fansipan can easily be summited by any reasonably-fit trekker, even novices. Depending on the route taken, a direct hike to the top can be done within 10 to 18 hours minimum. Experienced guides will stretch out the climb to two or three days, especially for novice trekkers. The route will take you past a variety of landscapes, evolving from rice fields to bamboo forests to the cloud-carpeted panorama visible from the summit. 

The best time to hike up Fansipan takes place between September and April, when the weather in Sapa is at its most predictable. Do not attempt to climb Fansipan without a guide. 

People-Watch at Quang Truong Square

Life in Sapa revolves around Quang Trong Square. The neighboring tribes are accustomed to meeting in the square for both trade and social affairs. On Saturday evenings, a Love Market takes place, when the Hmong and Dao hold weekly gatherings to play games and to pair off singles of either tribe. Enjoy cheap street food at the foot of the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary—a Gothic-looking cathedral built in the 20th century. The taste of the delicious local barbecue is improved by the chilly weather! 

Visit a Local Village

The Hmong, Tay, and Dao communities of Sapa are culturally distinct from Vietnamese lowlanders. While you’ll certainly meet them in Sapa, it’s worth walking hours into the local countryside to meet them where they live—and enjoy the gorgeous scenery along the way. 

Some villages are pretty close to Sapa town; the home of the Black Hmong, Cat Cat Village, is only 2 miles away. Deeper in the Muong Hoa Valley, past farms and bamboo forests, you’ll encounter the Tay community in Ta Van Village. Muong Hoa Valley is also famous for its gorgeous rice terraces, a scenic planting technique used all around Southeast Asia. You can choose to reach these sights by rented car or minibus if you don't want to walk. Once you get there, explore the local sights, or check into a homestay to truly immerse yourself in village life. 

Watch a Sunset at O Quy Ho Pass

At an elevation of 7,300 feet above sea level, O Quy Ho Pass is one of the most important mountain passes in Vietnam’s northwest, bridging the provinces of Lao Cai and Lai Chau. If the weather cooperates, Sapa visitors should head up to the pass, also called "Heaven's Gate," to watch the sun set behind the mountains. The sun will be framed by the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and the verdant valley below. A stop here is often done in tandem with a visit to Silver Waterfalls or Rong May (see below). To get to Heaven's Gate, you can hire a car or a motorcycle from Sapa town. 

Take a Red Dao Herbal Bath at Ta Phin

Image courtesy of Sapanapro

Ta Phin Village is home to the Red Dao people, who have an intimate knowledge of the medicinal herbs growing around Sapa. Using a secret blend of leaves and bark collected in the wild, the Red Dao people have created a formula for a soothing hot bath in a wooden barrel that they claim wards off sickness and helps women recover immediately after birth. 

Numerous spas around Ta Phin Village rely on this local knowledge to provide hot baths, and the best ones pair theirs with views of the valley. Sapa-Napro , the pioneer of Red Dao baths for tourists, created the herbal therapy products used in most Ta Phin locations; plan a visit to try their products for yourself.

Take Selfies at Sapa’s Waterfalls

The road to “Heaven’s Gate” passes by two of the area’s gorgeous waterfalls, one of which comes with a bonus story attached. Located in San Sa Ho Commune (9 miles northwest of Sapa town), the Love Waterfall takes its name from a local legend, where a fairy fell in love with a boy who often played his flute by the waterfall. Forbidden to meet her lover, the fairy instead turned into a bird so she could keep seeing him by the falls. The other notable waterfall on the route—Thac Bac, or “Silver Falls”—is highly recommended for that picture-perfect selfie.

Enjoy Nature at Ham Rong Mountain

The Ham Rong Mountain trail is the most easily-accessible trek from Sapa town. The name comes from the shape of some of its cliffs, which reminded locals of a dragon’s head (“ham rong” in the local language). Set aside five to six hours to climb to the top. As you ascend the stone steps, you’ll encounter the mountain’s Flower Garden, which has 190 species of orchid, and the Thach Lam stone formation. The last stop, at almost 6,000 feet above sea level, is the Cloudy Yard (San May), an observation level where you can look over Sapa town as clouds drift past. 

Shop Around Sapa’s Markets

Sapa town and the other smaller tribal neighborhoods offer opportunities to meet the local cultures and, perhaps, take a piece of their culture home with you. Just arrange a visit to one of the markets that take place once a week around Sapa. Sunday mornings are for visits to Muong Hum or Bac Ha markets, both of which attract sellers and buyers from Hmong, Dao, Tay, Nung, and Phu La. Tuesdays are for Coc Ly Market, run by the Flower Hmong from their village on the Chay River. The market experience feels like a trip back in time, where you’ll find Vietnam’s tribes dressed in their traditional best, hawking native products and offering samples of their local cuisine. 

Ride a Cable Car Up Fansipan

You can reach Fansipan’s summit without breaking a sweat, as a funicular railway and cable car service take visitors from Sapa town to the peak of Indochina’s roof in less than an hour. Both provide magnificent views of the Muong Hoa Valley and the Hoang Lien Son Mountain range along the ride. The cable car only goes three-fourths of the way up Fansipan—determined visitors should expect to hike another 30 minutes to reach the mountain’s peak. 

The two transport services are connected to Sun World Fansipan Legend , a tourist complex that mines Vietnam’s religious and cultural roots for its attractions: restaurants, retail areas, shopping gardens, a golf course, and the highest seated Buddha in Vietnam. 

Test your Mettle at Rong May Glass Bridge

Try standing on a glass viewing platform hanging high over the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, and see how long you can last before vertigo takes hold. The Rong May glass skywalk extends about 200 feet from the cliff’s edge, its transparent floors exposing the long, 1,000-foot-drop to the valley floor below. For an even greater thrill, try walking on the Doc Moc Suspension Bridge—a walkway made of 171 widely-spaced wooden planks and three cables (you’ll be secured to one as a safety precaution). 

Both bridges of terror are part of the Rong May Tourist Complex, a facility located close to O Quy Ho Pass 10 miles from Sapa town; “Heaven’s Gate” (see above) is often visited in conjunction with Rong May. 

Try the Local Cuisine

Locally-grown produce and livestock feature heavily in the restaurant scene along Cau May Street in Sapa town. From cuon sui (a type of dry pho noodle dish) to rainbow trout soup to thit lon cap nach (grilled free-range pork), the local menu will push all the buttons for adventurous eaters. 

Visit the Hill Station Restaurant for a menu featuring traditional Hmong cuisine, or book one of their cooking classes for a more hands-on experience. Ham Rong Street, on the other hand, specializes in grilled pork, fish, and beef—a perfect way to enjoy all of the flavor with little cost. Be sure to pair your meal with a sticky rice dish cooked in a bamboo tube. 

10 Great Places for Trekking in Southeast Asia

Ho Chi Minh City Guide: Planning Your Trip

The 13 Best Things to Do in Hanoi, Vietnam

Top UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Southeast Asia

What to Do in Mai Chau, Vietnam

Vietnam's Favorite Festivals

The 14 Best Beaches in Vietnam

The Top 13 Things to Do in Vung Tau, Vietnam

The 7 Best Places to Visit in Northern Thailand

Exceptional Destinations in Vietnam

Travel Itinerary: What to Do and See With Eight Days in Vietnam

Celebrate Tet Like a Local in Vietnam

The 8 Best Day Trips from Ho Chi Minh City

The 9 Best Things to Do in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Exploring & Adventuring in Ha Long Bay in Vietnam

The 7 Best Parks in Ho Chi Minh City

• Culture & Arts
• Ho Chi Minh City
• Attractions
• Phu Quoc Island
• Mekong Delta

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.

Best Things to Do in Sapa

14 Rewarding Things to Do in Sapa for First-Timers

Located in Lao Cai, a province in the Northwestern region of Vietnam, Sapa is a small town but…

Trekking in Sapa: Must-know Points to Keep in Mind

Most visitors to Sapa end up wishing they could spend more time there, and no wonder — this…

Famous Ethnic Villages in Sapa

Ta Van Village: a Peaceful Destination on the Side of Sapa

Ta Phin Village, Sapa

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

Destinations, tours by style.

• Shore Excursions

Travel Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Getting around
• Transportation
• Best Beaches
• Vietnam Honeymoon
• Travel esim to Vietnam

Our Company

• Responsible travel
• Terms of use
• Privacy Policy
• Recruitment

Connect with us:

• Email: [email protected]
• Hanoi, Vietnam: 23rd Floor, TASCO Building, Pham Hung road, Me Tri, Tu Liem, Hanoi.
• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: 2nd Floor, VIPD Building, No. 4 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Da Kao Ward, District 1, HCMC
• Hong Kong: Vietnam discovery Travel Limited Room 1D, 2/F, Fu Tao Building,98 Argyle Street, Mongkok, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Where Do You Want to Go?

• Tell us details of your holiday plan.
• Get multiple quotes from our expert agents, compare, then customize further.
• Select & book the best deal.

Things To Do In Sapa

Top hotel collections.

Best Hotels

• Filter (28)
• Hills & Valleys (4)
• Cultural Village (3)
• Waterfall (2)
• National Park (1)

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

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

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

₹ 679 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.

Things To Do In Nearby Places

FAQs on Sapa

What are the top hotels in sapa, what are the top activities in sapa, what are the top sightseeing places in sapa, how can i commute within sapa, browse package collections, nearby destinations for packages.

Ho Chi Minh City

Similar Places

Filter ( 0 selected)

Get the best offers on travel packages.

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

21 Incredible Things to Do in Sapa, Vietnam for First Time Visitors

Sapa ( Sa Pa in Vietnamese), located in the northern part of Vietnam and bordering China in Lao Cai Province, is one of the best places in Vietnam . 

It was previously known as a sleeper town but now many tourists visit Sapa on their North Vietnam itinerary. 

We’ve been to Sapa twice as we have lived in Vietnam for 6+ years and love the area. 

While it has become “touristy” with new constructions of hotels and attractions, the areas away from Sapa Town are peaceful and absolutely beautiful to explore for a few days. 

We recommend Sapa if you want to hike through rice terraces, check out waterfalls, wander through ethnic minority groups, and visit Fansipan Mountain. 

In this post, we’ve compiled 21 best things to do in Sapa for first-time visitors. This list will help you figure out what you want to do here. 

Not sure how to plan these activities on your visit? Check out our 3-day in Sapa itinerary for recommendations. 

*Disclaimer: 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.

Map of Sapa Attractions to Visit

Click on the map to see a larger view of attractions and places to visit in Sapa. Credit: Map data: Google

1. Go trekking for one or more days.

One of the popular things to do in Sapa is to go trekking. 

Whether you have one day or several days to go trekking, it’s highly recommended to see the gorgeous mountains, get some fresh air, and wander through the endless rice terraces. 

We went once in May and another time in November so we had different trekking experiences and views of the terraced rice fields. May was the start of planting rice so it was very green with the young rice plants, while the end of November was more brown as the rice was already harvested. 

Seeing the rice terraces is one of the highlights of visiting Sapa

TIP: Hire a trekking guide

If you prefer to DIY and go trekking on your own, it isn’t advisable. There aren’t any specific trails and signage, so it’s better to hire a guide . 

Your guide will know where to go and how to navigate through the trails. 

The treks are easy to moderate level. There is some hill climbing but it’s more of a rolling climb versus going vertical like a Fansipan hike. 

The trek includes lunch and a walk through ethnic minority villages such as Hmong, Dao, Xa Pho, Tay, and Day . 

Plus, the guide will arrange food and overnight stays at the homestays if you’re doing a multi-day trek. 

Read our two guides for more details:

Sapa trekking tips, trekking in sapa for 2 days.

How to hire a guide? Hiring a guide can be done at your accommodations. Or a woman may approach you in the Sapa city center to inquire if you need a guide. 

*Our Recommendation*

We recommend that you contact Zaazaa from Zaazaa Trekking before your arrival. She is a local guide who lives in Sapa and has been leading treks for foreigners for many years. 

We’ve done two different treks with her and love her enthusiasm and passion for trekking. She can customize your trek and can arrange non-trekking tours such as seeing waterfalls or visiting Bac Ha Market. 

2. Visit ethnic minority villages on the trek.

Vietnam has 54 ethnic minority groups. In Sapa, the main ethnic groups are Hmong, Dao, Xa Pho, Tay, and Day. 

As a part of your trekking experience, you’ll have the chance to wander through one or a few local villages and see the locals doing their day-to-day activities. 

To be honest, there isn’t much interaction with the locals, but you can see traditional houses, people making rice wine, and women practicing their embroidery skills.  

Here are a few of the ethnic minority villages that you could walk through: 

• Cat Cat Village: This is the most popular village to visit, so it’s more touristy and developed compared to other villages. It’s located the closest to Sapa town and only takes 20-30 minutes to walk there, which is why it’s more frequently visited by day hikers. 

The village has mostly Hmong people living here. In the area, there are watermills, traditional Hmong houses, and a waterfall flowing through the river. 

• Sin Chai Village: It’s a smaller, underdeveloped village next to Cat Cat Village, so you’ll have a quieter and non-touristy experience. Most people walk through the village and stay in homestays here. 
• Lao Chai Village & Ta Van Village: Located south of Sapa and in the Muong Hoa Valley, these two villages are near each other and have incredible landscape views of the rice terraces. These villages have a few ethnic groups such as Hmong, Dao, and Day people. 

We stayed in this village area, so check out our experience here . 

• Y Linh Ho Village: This is another quieter village that has Hmong and Dao people living here. Most people wander through here on their trek and see rice terraces and traditional houses.

3. Awe at the beautiful rice terraces.

Sapa has some of the best rice terraces and rice fields that you’ll see in Southeast Asia. The luscious green or yellow leaves are beautiful to see in person. 

The best way to see the rice terraces is along your one-day or multi-day trek through Sapa . Or, you can rent a motorbike and drive around to see the rice fields. 

If you plan to stay at a homestay, it will most likely have its own rice field so you can admire it there.  

So, when is the best time to see the rice terraces? 

The planting season is in mid-May so you’ll see young rice plants in the fields. Also, the rice terraces are a gorgeous golden color at the end of August and early September for the harvest season. 

We visited in mid-May and the end of November, so we haven’t seen the golden terraces. But, you can go at any time and still awe at the landscape. 

We saw many bundles of rice waiting to be planted during Sapa’s planting season in May

4. Take an indigo dyeing class.

You’ll notice gorgeous indigo-colored textiles on clothing, handbags, pillowcases, bedsheet covers, and more when exploring Sapa. 

This dark blue dye is naturally occurring from the Indigofera plant which grows on Sapa’s mountainside.  

The women from the Hmong ethnic minority group spend many hours dying and drying fabrics into the dark blue color. The darker the color, the more highly valued it is. You’ll see artisans’ hands a deep purple from the dying. 

One of the coolest things to do in Sapa is to take an indigo dyeing class where you can create your own textile using indigo. 

It’s not easy to find a class on your own but some of the homestays in Sapa offer this type of workshop. 

Consider staying at Indigo Snail Homestay , which has offered this class in the past. 

Indigo Snail Homestay created their own bedding using local fabrics and indigo dyes

Also, you can inquire with your hiking guide for suggestions on where to take this class. Who knows? Your guide may know how to do the indigo dying and will teach you personally! 

5. Hike Fansipan Mountain in 1 or 2 days.

Who wants to hike the highest peak in Vietnam? Fansipan Mountain is one of the most challenging hikes that we’ve done in Vietnam . 

The hike starts at Tram Ton Ranger Station ( Núi Xẻ Ranger Station Trạm Tôn) where you need to register. 

Afterward, climb through the quiet forest area of Hoang Lien National Park and into the fog to the highest point of Indochina (Indonesia, Cambodia, and Vietnam) at 3,143 meters (10,312 feet). It’s not an easy task. 

We received medals and a certificate of completion for completing the Fansipan trek.

Having a guide is recommended since the hiking route is not marked . You will also need to climb some boulders so a guide will help in this situation. 

It can be completed in 1 or 2 days depending on your hiking skills and the amount of time that you have. 

We climbed Fansipan in 1 day but we recommend 2 days with 1 night of overnight camping at the halfway point due to the altitude. 

As a heads up, the Fansipan Peak is the same spot as the tourist attraction, Sun World Fansipan Legend . 

In the past, hiking Fansipan was the only way to reach the peak. Now there is a convenient, non-hiking route which we’ll share below. 

6. Visit Sun World Fansipan Legend by cable car & funicular.

Sun World Fansipan Legend is a famous tourist attraction in Sapa. As mentioned previously, the one-day or multi-day trek was the only way to reach Fansipan. 

Now, it’s easy and convenient to reach Fansipan by taking a combination of funiculars and cable cars. 

There are two ways to get to Fansipan by funicular and/or cable car. 

The first option is to take the Muong Hoa funicular from Sapa Center’s Sapa Station to Fansican Cable Car Station and then take the cable car to Fansipan Legend. 

The second option is to take a taxi or drive from Sapa Center to Fansipan Cable Car Station and then take the cable car from there. 

Read our detailed guide about the Fansipan cable car and funicular options here . 

Once you reach Fansipan, you’ll do some stair climbing to pass by pagodas, temples, the Giant Buddha, and the Guanyin Statue. 

Reaching Fansipan Peak is a milestone and then you can take tons of photos with the “Fansipan 3143 m” sign. 

Note: Set your expectations low if you expect to have a clear view of the mountainside from Fansipan Peak. The chances of Fansipan being overcast and foggy are very high. We went two times – once around lunchtime and another time after 3:30pm and haven’t seen the mountains except for fog. 

Save money with your Fansipan Legend cable car tickets here. 

7. Sapa Plaza

A major landmark in Sapa is the Sapa Plaza. It’s a gorgeous yellow French-style building next to the central plaza in the center of Sapa Town.  

It’s best to visit at nighttime when the building lights up at night. You’ll see many people take photos in front of the building. 

Sapa Plaza is one of the places to check out in Sapa at night

Inside Sapa Plaza, there are a few restaurants, souvenir shops, stores selling puffy jackets, and a ticket office (Sapa Station) to buy funicular and cable car rides for Sun World Fansipan Legend. 

If you need a taxi, you can easily grab one here. Many taxis park on the side of the street or circle the plaza. 

Address: 8RMR+W49, TT. Sa Pa, Sa Pa, Lào Cai

8. Sapa Lake

If you take a sleeper bus to Sapa from Hanoi , the bus stations are about a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive from the Sapa Station/central area of town. 

On your way to the city center, you’ll pass by the Sapa Lake ( Hồ Sa Pa ). 

The lake is small and looks average, yet it’s a nice place to walk around the lake and get some fresh air. 

As a heads up, the sidewalk around the lake area isn’t in the best condition, so be careful for any uneven bricks or holes. Some parts are not walkable so you’ll need to walk on the street. 

Around the lake, there are a few places to take photos. Or, you can stop by a restaurant or cafe for food and drinks. 

Address: Between Xuân Viên & Ngũ Chỉ Sơn Streets

9. Sapa Market

For those who want to go shopping, there is a local market, Sapa Market ( Chợ Sapa ) near Sapa Lake. 

There is a tented area where vendors sell souvenirs , backpacks, and other gifts. 

When walking further down, there is a traditional building that caters to locals. There are bulk goods for sale such as slippers, tea, coffee, dried fruits, jewelry, toys, and more. The market has a section to buy fresh produce. 

If you’re hungry, there are plenty of noodle shops open. We stopped by here to do a to-go order of noodle soup before catching our bus to Hanoi airport. 

The Sapa Market is 1.4 kilometers (.87 miles) from Sapa Center so it’s doable to walk there. Or, you can take a taxi.  

If you don’t have time to visit this place, you can skip it as there are similar stuff sold in the main town area. 

Note : The Tinh Night Market ( Chợ Tình Sapa) next to the main Sapa plaza is closed. During my last visit in May 2023, the area was fenced off, so we shall see what appears in the future. 

Address: Lương Định Của, TT. Sa Pa, Sa Pa, Lào Cai, Vietnam

10. Notre Dame Cathedral

Another place to visit in Sapa is the Notre Dame Cathedral ( Nhà Thờ Đá Sapa ). 

Built in 1895 by the French, this Catholic church is located across from the Sapa Station and around the main plaza area. 

You can’t miss this building with the white church with the Roman Gothic architecture. 

You can visit the church to explore or to attend mass. Mass is held at 7:00pm from Mondays to Fridays, and 9:00am and 5:00pm on Sundays. Check out the website for more information (website is in Vietnamese).

Notre Dame Cathedral is a popular attraction to visit.

Note: There are hawkers, including young children, around the Notre Dame Cathedral. They will try to sell you souvenirs and bracelets. Please do not buy from or take photos of them as they’re most likely not attending school.

Address: Between Phố Hàm Rồng & Phạm Xuân Huân Streets

11. Eat a warm chestnut cake.

Roasted chestnuts and chestnut cakes ( bánh hạt dẻ) are popular food souvenirs in Sapa. You’ll see many vendors selling the chestnut cakes on a griddle in Sapa Town. 

The chestnut cakes are delicious and affordable. Each one costs 10,000 VND ($.40). 

The outer layer is a flaky pastry dough and the inside has mashed chestnut, butter, and mung beans . 

We love it as it’s not too sweet so it can be eaten for breakfast or as a snack. As a heads up, they are oily as they’ve been reheated on a griddle, so you’ll want to have tissue on hand. 

Once you eat one, you may be tempted to eat another one or buy a box of chestnut cakes to enjoy at home. 

While chestnuts are not native to Sapa and Vietnam, the ingredients come from South China and then cakes are made in Sapa. 

Sapa’s chestnut cakes are a must-try food!

12. Try the local foods.

What are the best foods to try in Sapa? During our research, we found out that horse meat, salmon or sturgeon hot pot, dried buffalo meat, and chestnut cakes are unique foods to try . 

Salmon is farmed in the Sapa area, so we had to try it. We tried it on a sizzling platter instead of a hot pot, and it was delicious. The salmon is leaner – more like trout than Pacific salmon. 

Sturgeon is a heartier fish compared to salmon. We also tried it on a sizzling platter. 

If you’re looking for horse meat, you’ll need to ask where to find it. We saw dried buffalo meat for sale as a food souvenir but didn’t buy any. 

Need ideas on where to eat in Sapa? Check out our detailed Sapa restaurant guide , which includes vegetarian/vegan restaurants. 

13. Get a massage.

Sapa town has many places to get massages. You may consider getting a back or feet massage after your day hike or multi-day trek. 

Many of the massage places have prices listed in front of the store, so enjoy various massage treatments. 

Your hotel may also have an on-site spa and provide massage services. 

14. Silver Waterfall

Silver Waterfall ( Thác Bạc ) is one of the easiest waterfalls to visit when you’re in Sapa. It’s located along the main road, QL4D, and is a 20-minute car ride outside of Sapa town. 

Silver Waterfall is 200 meters high (656 feet) so you can see a part of the cascades from the main road. 

But if you go inside, you can enjoy a closer view of the photogenic waterfall. 

Stair climbing along a well-maintained path and a short walk over a bridge are required to see the top portion of the waterfall. 

If you have mobility issues, you can also see the waterfall from the bottom of the cascades. 

Since it’s only the waterfall here, you can finish seeing this place in 10 to 15 minutes. Swimming is not allowed here. 

For more information, read our detailed guide on Silver Waterfall here. 

Silver Waterfall (Thác Bạc) is a pretty waterfall to visit in Sapa

Address: 9Q6H+Q35, San Sả Hồ, Sa Pa, Lào Cai, Vietnam

Related: Amazing Waterfalls in Vietnam to Check Out

15. love waterfall.

Doesn’t the name of this attraction, Love Waterfall, pique your interest? 

Love Waterfall and Golden Stream ( Suối Vàng Thác Tình Yêu ) is a fantastic place to visit outside of Sapa town. 

The waterfall is located in the Hoang Lien National Park and requires a short 15 to 20-minute walk next to a stream and through a forest area to see it.

Don’t worry. The walk is easy but does include an incline up a small hill, but it’s doable for everyone including children. 

Love Waterfall has gentle cascades at 100 meters (328 feet) high and has a heart-shaped rock in the pool area so you can pose with it. 

At the bottom of the waterfall, there is a large pool of water. The area isn’t fenced off, so you could swim in it. However, the water will be cold. 

Read our Love Waterfall Guide to learn more. 

Take a photo with Love Waterfall from the observatory area

Address: 8QWC+RV8, Sơn Bình, Tam Đường, Lai Châu

16. Sapa Heaven Gate at O Quy Ho Pass

Sapa is O Quy Ho’s Heaven Gate ( Khu Du Lịch Cổng Trời Ô Quy Hồ ) is located on the highest peak of O Quy Ho mountainous pass. 

This tourist attraction was not on our original itinerary, but it was a nice surprise. Our taxi driver dropped us off here. 

At 2035 meters (6,675 feet), you get gorgeous views of the mountains and the windy roads. 

Other highlights of this place include fun photo opportunities with hearts and love themes, the triangular-shaped landmark at 2035 meters, a replica of Bali’s Lempuyang Temple gate, and a spiritual temple. 

Here is the iconic Balinese gates but we’re in Sapa!

TIP: Hold on to any hats as the peak is extremely windy. 

This place is 30 minutes away from Sapa Plaza by car. 

Click to read our Heaven Gate O Quy Ho post for details. 

Address: 9Q38+66 Tam Đường District, Lai Chau

17. Cloud Dragon Glass Bridge Tourist Area

Cloud Dragon Glass Bridge Tourist Area ( Khu Du Lịch Cầu Kính Rồng Mây) is one of the newest attractions in Sapa’s outer area. 

You’ll get the chance to walk along a glass bridge at 2,200 meters above sea level and see the O Quy Ho Pass. 

It’s a place to visit if you want to test your fear of heights. The glass bridge is clear and you’ll see the forest area under your feet. 

It’s recommended to visit on a clear day for the best views. Otherwise, it’ll be foggy and not worth the high ticket price (500,000 VND/$20.40 USD for adults and 300,000 VND/$12.25 for children). 

Our taxi driver wanted to take us to this incredible attraction, but we didn’t have time. We returned to Sapa town to catch our bus to the airport. 

Click here for a tour of Cloud Dragon Glass Bridge which includes a visit to Silver Waterfall  

It’ll take 40 minutes to get here by car from Sapa town. 

Address: QL4D, Sơn Bình, Tam Đường, Lào Cai

18. Moana Sapa

Opened in February 2021, t his attraction focuses on photo opportunities with popular landmarks around the world. 

You can take a photo with replicas of Bali’s Pura Lempuyang (Gates of Heaven), a Moana statue with hands in front (a twist on Disney’s Moana character), a large golden hand, with a swing overlooking the mountains, and more. 

The ticket comes with a water bottle. 

This place is only a 7-minute car ride or a 15-minute walk from Sapa Plaza. If you’re staying at a hotel along Mường Hoa Street, then you can easily walk to this attraction. 

We haven’t had a chance to visit but will check it out on our next visit. 

For more information, check out the Facebook page . 

Address: Số 68 Violet, Phường Cầu Mây, Sa Pa, Lào Cai 330000

19. Ansapa Park (Ansapa Village)

Similarly to Moana Sapa, Ansapa Park is another attraction to visit to take photos of famous landmarks and statues and admire the rice terraces of Muong Hoa Valley. 

We found out about this attraction after reading this article about unattractive statue designs such as the Statue of Liberty and Elsa from Disney’s Frozen. 

Since there are very limited copyright laws in Vietnam, everyone has the liberty to create their version of monuments and iconic characters. 

While we haven’t been to this attraction yet we know that photo opportunities with the Golden Hands Bridge from Ba Na Hills in Danang (in central Vietnam ), the Eiffel Tower, and more are popular. 

The ticket price includes a drink, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery. 

This place is located 10 minutes from the Sapa Plaza. 

Address: 289 Nguyễn Chí Thanh TX, Sa Pa, Lào Cai

20. Bac Ha Market & Ban Pho Village

As a popular day trip from Sapa, Bac Ha Market ( Chợ Văn hóa Bắc Hà) is the largest traditional market held on Sundays in Bac Ha, Lao Cai Province. 

Thousands of tourists and local ethnic minority people visit Bac Ha Market to see produce, household goods, souvenirs, and more. It’s quite a sight to see ethnic minority people wear their traditional outfits. 

There are also animals for sale such as ducks, dogs, cats, and pigs. 

While Sundays have huge crowds, you can also visit on Saturdays to see the sale of buffaloes and horses. Originally these animals were sold on Sundays, but then the selling area was too crowded. 

Note: You can skip the animal section if you’re sensitive to animals getting sold. 

It’s not required to have a tour guide but it’s helpful to have so you won’t get lost in the market. 

As a heads up, Bac Ha Market is 2.5 hours one-way by car from the Sapa Plaza area. You’ll need to factor in the transportation time for the round-trip journey. 

Aren’t these dresses gorgeous?

Many tours also include a side trip to Ban Pho Village ( Bản Phố ) . It’s a small traditional village where each family makes corn wine. 

Everyone takes a short 10-minute walk through the village and may stop by a traditional house to see corn wine in production.

Read more about our Bac Ha Market day trip guide here. 

Address: G7MV+X48, TT. Bắc Hà, Bắc Hà, Lào Cai, Vietnam

21. Day Trip to Vietnam – China Border 

Want to see what the Vietnam-China international border looks like? There is a border gate at Lao Cai, Vietnam, and takes you to Hekou, China. 

One of the landmarks in the area is a stone marble monument that says, “Vietnam 102 (2), 2001.” Many people take photos of this monument and have the border crossing and tall buildings from China’s side. 

Across the river, China has one 102 (1) milestone. 

Another place of interest is the Đền Mẫu , a small pagoda. It’s located across from the stone marble monument. There are small statues of deities and gods which you could pray to. 

It’s not necessary to make a special trip to see this border crossing as a day trip from Sapa, but many Bac Ha Market tours stop by this area on the way back to Sapa. This place is located 1 hour away from Sapa Plaza by car. 

Note: If you decide to cross to China here, ensure that you have the proper visa documentation. 

Address: GX48+V5R, Lào Cai

Final Thoughts

How many of these attractions do you want to experience for your first visit to Sapa? Feel free to pick a few of these suitable activities for your itinerary. 

We hope you feel more confident with organizing what to do on your next trip to Sapa. 

If you have any questions about visiting Sapa, please feel free to ask a question in the comment section below. 

Like this post? Save it to your Vietnam Pinterest board.

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.

7 Amazing Places to Eat in Sapa, Vietnam

21 awesome hikes in asia for all hiking levels, you may also like, the ultimate guide to 24 non-spicy korean food..., how to travel from ipoh to penang georgetown..., 18 must try places to eat in penang’s..., a step by step guide on taking the..., exploring melaka, malaysia in one day – a..., hiking moongate station 5 in penang, malaysia, indonesia’s top 5 scuba diving spots to not..., 11 must have apps for traveling in malaysia, where to go in bali: the best 8..., 16 things to know before visiting ipoh, malaysia, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

By submitting a comment, you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. Refer to the Privacy Policy and Disclaimer for more information. *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Please accept or opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

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

Leave the planning to a local expert

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.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Vietnam

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Sapa

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Sapa with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Sapa Travel Guide

Fansipan Mountain Sapa: A comprehensive travel guide for first-time visitors

Explore Fansipan Mountain – The Highest Mountain Peak in Vietnam Fansipan Mountain Sapa, also known as the roof of Indochina, is a destination that not only climbers but also Sapa Travel enthusiasts hope to visit and conquer once in their lives. Being able to gaze down at the incredible panorama of Sapa while perching atop […]

Thac Bac Waterfall Sapa: A must-see attraction in Sapa

Thac Bac Waterfall Sapa – A majestic beauty for nature lovers Thac Bac Waterfall, or Silver Waterfall in Sapa, Lao Cai province is considered one of the most beautiful and well-known waterfalls in Vietnam. This is also one of the tourist attractions that draw the greatest number of tourists in Sapa every summer. Let’s join […]

O Quy Ho Pass: A Beautiful scenic spot in Sapa Vietnam

O Quy Ho Pass: One of the most beautiful passes in the Northwest During your journey to Sapa, O Quy Ho Pass is a well-liked and well-known site that draws lots of travelers seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Driving across the pass will allow you to take in the breathtaking beauty of Sapa, complete with […]

Sapa Glass Bridge – Complete travel guide for your trip in Sapa!

What makes Rong May Glass Bridge near Sapa so appealing? Sapa Glass Bridge has become a popular tourist attraction in Sapa. The bridge has been open to tourists for a few years, but it draws tens of thousands of visitors every month. This is a stunning check-in location with lots of thrilling games to try. […]

Sapa Heaven Gate – Paradise in the clouds

Heaven’s Gate Sapa: A most interesting place for cloud hunting in Vietnam Explore the amazing beauty of Sapa Heaven Gate – a breathtaking pass in the center of Sapa, Vietnam Sapa Heaven’s Gate, a remarkable destination for individuals seeking comfort in the embrace of nature, draws a sizable influx of foreign visitors with its enchanting […]

Sapa rice fields: A natural masterpiece capturing people’s hearts

Rice terraced fields in Sapa:  Comprehensive guide for first-time visitors to Sapa Sapa is a must-see destination for anyone planning a trip to Northern Vietnam. Don’t miss the Sapa rice fields, which offer a charming and poetic view of terraced fields, when you visit Sapa, the most well-known town in Northwest Vietnam. These captivating landscapes […]

How to get from Hanoi to Sapa? Tips to choice a Best Transportation Option!

How to get from Hanoi to Sapa and advice for the greatest travel experience How to get from Hanoi to Sapa is a common question of many tourists when they plan to visit Sapa. The north of Vietnam is completely different from the rest of the country and Sapa is a must-see when you explore […]

What is the Best Time to Visit Sapa? Recommendation from Local View

Best time to visit Sapa: A comprehensive guide for first-time visitors Are you considering a trip to Sapa but are unsure of the ideal time to go there? You should definitely consider that factor since it can have a significant impact on your experience. There are months when there are gorgeous rice fields, months when […]

Muong Hoa Sapa Valley: Explore Hidden Eden in Northwest Vietnam

Muong Hoa Valley in Sapa: Hidden Eden in Northwest Vietnam Muong Hoa Valley is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sapa, particularly for travelers who enjoy an exciting experience. Coming here, tourists will be enthralled by the alluring splendor of this valley, which is also the home to many minority groups and breathtaking […]

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!

• Work with Me
• Start a Blog
• Yearly Roundups
• 101 in 1001 Goals
• how to start a travel blog
• tips for new bloggers
• write me a guest post!
• Work With Me

A Passion and A Passport

Proving Travel is Possible with a Full-Time 9-5

Adventurous Things to do in Sapa: The Ultimate 3-Day Sapa Itinerary

last Updated: September 25, 2022 sapa vietnam

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Vietnam and looking for the best way to spend an adventurous and cultural 3 days in Sapa?! Read on for not only the best things to do in Sapa, but where to stay, how to get around, when to visit, and what to eat! It’s a spot not to be missed on any Vietnam itinerary! You won’t wanna miss any of these Sapa attractions!

Sapa is filled with rice field after rice field, spectacular waterfalls, small authentic villages dotting the area, local markets, and all the pho you could ever want.

It’s a popular destination for those spending 2 weeks in Vietnam , loved for its fresh air, cool climate, range after range of mountains, and outstanding scenery.

It’s also one of the best places in Vietnam for all your trekking lovers, and home to the country’s largest mountain – Mt. Fansipan. Here in Sapa you’ll find rugged scenery and rich, cultural diversity, making the area an absolute must for any nature lover.

To be honest, refining all of the area into a 3 day guide is a bit challenging, since there are just so many Sapa attractions to check off. However, many visitors opt to spend 2-3 days in Sapa after visiting Hanoi, making this quick Sapa itinerary very doable.

By following this guide, your 3 days in Sapa will be fully action-packed, so it’s best to get some rest beforehand (possibly on the night train – read below). 

Before we get into the full list of things to do in Sapa organized into a complete 3-day Sapa itinerary, here’s a pre-travel guide to the area.

How to Get to Sapa

Sapa is nestled near the northern border of Vietnam, with its closest large city being Hanoi. 

And psst – you’ll probably be flying into Hanoi during your visit, as it’s the most frequented airport. Hanoi is a large and bustling city, and lucky for you, there’s a bunch of different options (as well as tour companies) that offer transportation to Sapa. 

To cover all our bases, we’ll be highlighting the 3 main ways to get from Hanoi to Sapa: train, bus, and car.

Since there’s no railway station in Sapa, the train will drop you off at the Lao Cai Railway Station, which is located a short 50 minute drive from Sapa. And thankfully, there’s a ton of busses and taxis constantly running taking passengers from Lao Cai (the province which Sapa belongs to) to Sapa and back. 

Most travelers prefer to take the overnight train from Hanoi to Lao Cai , taking roughly 8 hours and arriving in Lao Cai in the early morning (5:30am-6:30am). This is a great option as you’ll essentially have the full day in Sapa once you make your way there. 

Book your overnight train to Lao Cai here , the gateway to Sapa.

There are buses running throughout the day, driving the 6-7 hours (depending on traffic and weather) between the bustling city and the Sapa wonderland of rice terraces and waterfalls. 

One neat option we’ve found is the night bus ( book here ), which leaves Sapa late in the evening, between 10pm and midnight, and drives throughout the night. This bus has sleeper seats where you can lay down and sleep for the journey, however the seats aren’t exactly a king-size feather bed.

They are, however, inexpensive and get the job done! This is the route we chose on our Sapa adventure , since we were cutting costs as much as possible, and the night bus killed two birds with one stone: a trip to Sapa without having to pay for an additional night in a hotel!

Book your overnight bus to Sapa here.

The final, and most convenient option, is to travel from Hanoi to Sapa via car. The journey takes about 4.5 hours. There are a few tour companies that will drive you directly from your hotel in Hanoi to your hotel in Sapa, however, this is the most expensive option.

If you insist on traveling by private vehicle (sans public transportation), the cheapest option is to rent a car and drive it up yourself. It’s super easy to rent a car in Hanoi. An added benefit of this option is that you’ll have freedom to drive to different areas to explore throughout Sapa, which you’ll see in a minute is a HUGE benefit!

By Tour Company

If you want everything taken care of for you, and you don’t wanna have to worry about the hassle of getting from Hanoi to Sapa yourself, book yourself with a tour company.

These tours include everything from transportation to Sapa, overnight stays, trekking, traditional meals, Sapa attractions, visiting the local people, and more. It’s basically an all-in-one adventure, and at a super reasonable price at that.

A few options below:

• 3 Night Homestay Trek with Overnight Train Transfer : Trek through the Muong Hoa Valley in the Hoang Lien Son Mountains to the hill tribe villages of the Hmong, Zay, and Red Zao peoples. Experience traditional hospitality during a 1-night homestay in Ta Van village. BOOK TOUR HERE.
• 2 Day Sapa Tour with Fansipan Peak from Hanoi : Travel by express bus from Hanoi to Sapa on a 2-day tour. Explore Cat Cat village and take a cable car up to Fansipan Peak – the Roof of Indochina. You’ll also meet a Black H’Mong family, and be able to explore the town of Sapa during your free time. BOOK TOUR HERE.
• 3 Day Medium Trek with Bus Transfer : Highlights include visiting the famous parts of Sapa, observing the daily activities of the ethnic minority people of the area, enjoying the breathtaking mountain scenery and rice terraces, and staying overnight at a homestay. BOOK TOUR HERE
• 2 Day Sapa Homestay with Bus Transfer: Highlights include exploring the Sapa Valley, admiring the traditional costumes of the ethnic peoples, trekking through the lush green rice paddies and terraces (9km), and experiencing life in the mountains by spending the night at a homestay. BOOK TOUR HERE.

Where to Stay in Sapa

Sapa is a beautiful place full of beautiful food, culture, and people. What also makes this place oh so wonderful is the chance to experience it through your accommodation! There are many unique and varied options for places to stay in Sapa, and in addition there are a WIDE range of prices that you can pay for a place to stay. I’ll highlight each below.

Sapa is not a particularly wealthy place, and therefore your currency will go a long way here. Being from America, the US Dollar is very strong in Vietnam, and you will see this as you book and pay for lodging.

The cheapest hotels, hostels, and homestays are typically under $10 per night. Yes, you read that right, and there’s even a few for around $5 per night. In those very inexpensive accommodations, you’ll typically be getting a room in a house, or in some cases just a bunk, similar to a European hostel.

But hmm, what is a homestay exactly? Essentially, it’s when you stay in the home of a local family for a small fee. If you want an authentic experience and to learn about the culture of the place you’re visiting, I’d highly suggest checking out a homestay. There are so many homestay options available in Sapa, so you won’t have trouble finding one that suits your needs.

A few recommended homestays (all with exceptional reviews) include: 

• Eco Hills Homestay
• The Warm Sapa Homestay
• Sureless Homestay
• Thanh Ha Homestay Sapa .

Mid-Level Hotels

Stepping up price-wise from those accommodations are the next level of lodges, typically $20-$50 per night. For that price, which is what we paid for our stay at Eco Palms House , you’ll get your own private place.

In our case, that was our own private hut, however in most cases it means something similar to a hotel room. This is the sweet spot for accommodations in Sapa, as you’ll get a beautiful and comfortable stay while keeping your spending to a minimum.

Other recommended inexpensive hotels/accommodation options include: 

• The Grand Blue Hotel
• Sunny Mountain Hotel
• The Hill Station Boutique Hotel  (book fast because it’s popular and there’s only a few rooms!)

Luxury Hotels in Downtown Sapa

Finally, the most expensive hotels in Sapa are in the downtown area. These hotels cost between $70-$110 per night, and when you spend that much you are treated to everything you would get at a fancy hotel elsewhere in the world.

Swimming pools, spas, fitness centers, conference rooms – you’ll have it all at your fingertips, and at a price you would not be able to get elsewhere in the world. If you want to get a taste of an expensive hotel, then Sapa is the place to do it.

Recommended luxury hotels/accommodation options in Sapa include: 

• Aira Boutique Sapa Hotel & Spa
• Silk Path Grand Resort & Spa
• Pao’s Sapa Leisure Hotel

While in Sapa, one thing we wish we would have done is to stay in one of the expensive hotels for one night, our last night.

After enjoying the Sapa Market and having dinner in one of the fine restaurants, it would have been a great experience to enjoy a luxurious room for just $75 or so for the night. Then the next morning, as we left Sapa, we would have been doing so after a great sleep in a big bed, a hot shower, and breakfast at the hotel. 

Best Time to Visit Sapa

Since you wanna make sure you cross off all of these things to do in Sapa, you’ll wanna make sure you visit at the right time of year. Sapa is a dream come true year-round; however, many people find this place absolutely brilliant when the rice paddies turn a brilliant green color.

This kinda unfortunately happens during the wet season, from May to September each year. It tends to only rain for a few hours each day, so if you plan your treks for after the rain is completed you should be able to stay relatively dry.

Therefore, the wet season is not a bad time to spend 3 days in Sapa at all, just note that July and August tend to be the rainiest (so maybe steer clear of those months). 

Coming a close second is the months of September and October. At this time of year, the rice harvest happens. You’ll be able to get a unique experience as the harvest takes place all around you, in addition to the rice fields turning a beautiful golden color.

Visiting in September or October may not get you the bright green rice fields that make Sapa pictures so stunning, but it will get you an incredible experience and some beautiful golden photos that are pretty darn special themselves.

What to Eat in Sapa

While exploring all the things to do in Sapa, and actually all of Vietnam, you would be crazy to miss out on some of the fantastic local cuisine.

For starters, the pho in Vietnam is a must-try. Coming from the USA, we don’t have much that compares to pho. It is part-noodle dish, part-soup, and it is FULLY delicious. While in Sapa, try every kind of pho you can get your hands on as all the different flavors will blow your mind. Vietnamese locals eat pho at all times of day.

To be honest, we found it a bit strange to be enjoying a bowl of pho right away in the morning. Pho felt more like a lunch or dinner menu item, however it was absolutely delicious and fueled our adventure each day!

Coming in second is something that we started each meal with: spring rolls . These are the perfect appetizer, whether served fresh or fried. We personally loved the vegetarian spring rolls, as they were made with locally grown fresh vegetables and went PERFECTLY with some yummy peanut sauce on the side.

The third thing you have to try in Sapa is a Banh Mi , which is essentially a Vietnamese sandwich. We say it is a sandwich, however that somehow diminishes how awesome these actually are. A Banh Mi consists of a baguette (traditionally baked with both rice and wheat flour), and is filled with a variety of ingredients – from meat, pickled vegetables, and chili peppers.

The Vietnamese cooking style balances sweet with spicy, and often adds many different colors to make a dish visually attractive as well as tasty. The Banh Mi is no exception, as this is a beautiful meal that makes for an excellent lunch whenever you get the chance.

Finally, we personally insist that you ask each and every waiter/waitress you have what they would recommend on the menu. 

In many cases, we did this and our server brought up a dish that we had never heard of and sure as heck would not have ordered on our own. However, these were some of the best dishes we enjoyed in Vietnam, especially in Sapa.

Whenever you are in doubt about what to do or eat, ask a local! They know best, and will almost always point you in the best possible direction.

A few additional foods to try in Sapa include:

• Cap Nach pork: a specialty of the mountainous region 
• Thang Co horse meat stew: traditional food of Hmoong people 
• Pau play day cake: made of glutinous rice and green peas
• Salmon Sour Hot Pot: and yes, Sapa’s cool enough for it!
• Tao Meo wine
• Khang Gai Dried Meat
• black forest mushrooms

Now let’s get to it – all the things to do in Sapa during your 3 days here!  

Quick Note: You could technically switch around the days in this quick guide to Sapa, but the following is a great starting point for your 3 days in Sapa !

An Ideal 3-Day Sapa Itinerary 

Sapa itinerary day 1: explore the rice fields.

First up on this Sapa itinerary – exploring the rice fields that the area is so well known for. You can’t spend 3 days in Sapa without spending ample time meandering throughout the lush, gorgeous landscapes of the rice fields on foot (I mean, that’s probably the main reason you’re visiting the area afterall!).

Therefore, that’s what we’re up to first on this Sapa itinerary! These iconic layered hills are what makes Sapa such a unique and special area, and they are worth at least a full day of exploration (aka don’t make other plans for this day). Since the roads aren’t great, visitors tend to trek on the well-maintained footpaths.

Once your belly is full and you have everything packed that you want to bring along (I highly recommend a camera, as well as a rain jacket just in case) then head out for the rice fields. Depending on the location of your hotel, you may have to drive or walk a bit to the rice terraces, or they may be right outside your door (lucky you!).

From our hotel, the Eco Palms House , we were able to walk outside our door and made our way through the many tracks and trails around the area. We stumbled upon a beautiful river, a bamboo forest, and of course got tons of amazing views of the rice fields and surrounding scenery in Sapa.

The best way to explore the rice fields is with a guide. For us, we were connected to a local guide service through our hotel. We recommend that you do the same – finding a local guide to the rice fields near where you are staying. Doing so will be both convenient for you and will promise a unique trip filled with interesting stories and local commentary.  

You can choose to book a guide ahead of time, or book once you arrive in Sapa. You’ll basically be bombarded by Hmong women offering trekking tours to their village, so there’s no shortage of options here. 

Editor’s Note: I tend to do a lot of research on tours and activities ahead of time, since I’m typically pretty rushed while traveling. If you’re the same, find some inexpensive trekking tours of Sapa here:

• 5 Hour Muong Hoa Valley Trek and Ethnic Tribes : Get back to nature and learn about rural life on a 5-hour trek through the Muong Hoa Valley. Meet local tribes and get stunning views of the most amazing rice terraces in Vietnam.
• Sapa Valley Trek with Local Village Visit : Trek through the Sa Pa valley and get stunning views of the terraced rice fields. Learn about the traditional customs of the different ethnic minority groups that live in the villages along the way.

However, if you’d rather not get a guide, you can trek the rice fields all on your own. The best trek to do on your own is in the Muong Hoa Valley, which can be easily reached from downtown Sapa.

Walk down Muong Hoa Street until you see a ticket counter, where you’ll be required to pay about $3 to enter the trek. From there, you’ll have the ability to choose any direction your heart desires, and you’ll be able to make the trip as short or as long as you wish. The Muong Hoa trek is basically one long and incredible viewpoint, with a constantly changing landscape. 

One note on hiking: In addition to customizing the length of your trek should you be going at it sans tour guide, the difficulty of the hikes can be as easy/hard as you’d like as well. Hiking vertically up and down the rice fields can be challenging,  meaning you’ll undoubtedly come across a lot of ascents and descents.

However, many trails go along the rice fields, without much elevation change, making the hiking much more tolerable if difficult isn’t in your vocabulary (no shame!). Of course, changing elevation will be harder, but it also leads to more unique views and landscapes!

After a full day of trekking through the rice fields, congratulate yourself with some rice wine or a local beer (or some tea if you need to wind down).

Sapa Itinerary Day 2: Mount Fansipan and Love Waterfall

Wake up early on Day 2 of this 3-day Sapa itinerary, as we’re headed off to Vietnam’s highest mountain – Mount Fansipan! It’s often dubbed ‘the Roof of Indochina’, since it’s not only the highest peak in Vietnam at 10k+ feet, but in the Indochinese Peninsula (including Laos and Cambodia as well).

And you betcha we’ll be heading to the top for views of swirling clouds and rice terraces below (this wouldn’t be a complete Sapa itinerary without urging you to visit Fansipan)! And out of all the things to do in Sapa, promise me you won’t miss the top of this mountain!

How to get to Fansipan: Fansipan is located about 30 minutes outside of Sapa, so if you don’t have a car, you’ll need to get a taxi. It’s typically very easy to order one through your hotel, and we were able to book for around $20 roundtrip from our hotel to Fansipan.

You can either choose to hike to the summit of Fansipan, or simply take the cable car.

Cable Car: What used to take visitors days and days of difficult trekking, now takes just about 20 minutes. It’s an easy 20 minute ride to the top from the gondola lift terminal (in Muong Hoa Valley). Cable cars hold up to 35 passengers, and run from 7:30am – 5:30pm every day. Try and get a window seat as the views are remarkable the entire way up!

It’s wise to wear comfy shoes as you’ll still need to walk up about 600 steps once you get outta the cable car in order to reach the actual top. You can opt to take the funicular rail if you don’t feel like getting a leg work out in.

Hiking : If you’re looking for a full-day adventure and wanna burn off all that pho you’ve been shoveling down, hike up to Fansipan! However, do note it’ll take about 10 hours of hiking to make it to the peak, and it is quite strenuous (and should only be attempted by those who are physically fit and up for the challenge).

You’ll want to start the hike early in the day, so it’s best to have your own car instead of relying on a taxi to get you there. Book a guided hike here – includes lunch, water, and a patient guide who knows the area and trekking spots well.

→ Book your 1 day Fansipan trekking tour here

No matter how you reach the summit, you’ll want to bring along some warm clothing, as the temperature decreases the higher you go. Consider carrying a jacket, scart, and hat. In addition, 

At the summit, there are religious statues and temples where you can explore and learn local culture and customs, while also sampling some delicious food. On top of Fansipan, you’ll be on top of the world, and you’ll literally be above the clouds (kinda like in Haleakala in Maui ). It’s wild – the cloud formations change every few seconds.

When we visited Fansipan, the clouds were at a lower altitude than us, and the sky seemed to invert as we passed above the clouds. Suddenly, the clouds became the ground, and the sky was an open and beautiful blue. Therefore, don’t think that because a day is cloudy, it will be a bad day for Fansipan, it may just be the PERFECT day! Be sure to walk around the entire platform for the 360-degree views. 

After exploring Fansipan, head to Love Waterfall, which is located between Sapa and Fansipan. Be prepared for a short hike through the mountains, however, you’ll be able to get up close and personal to the waterfall after about 25 minutes. The entrance fee is 70VND, and is most definitely worth it.

If you’ve got extra time, be sure to check out Silver Waterfall, as they’re easily combinable.

Sapa Itinerary Day 3: Taking in the Culture + Sapa Market

Lastly on this Sapa itinerary, we’ll be immersing ourselves in the local Vietnamese culture, and of course enjoying the sites along the way. We explored a local village called Lao Chai (note, not Lao Cai, as in the place the train drops you off) and had the time of our lives.

We walked through town, learned about locals and their culture, and ate little snacks as we passed by cafes and restaurants.

Lao Chai was located in the heart of the rice fields, so of course we were also treated to stunning views of the rice fields, which will no doubt be one of the Sapa attractions you remember most fondly.

In addition, we found that there were TONS of animals as part of the local culture. Many of the families each had their own buffalo, multiple dogs, chickens and pigs! These animals roamed the town without fences or leashes, and everything felt completely normal and safe! 

We literally spent time walking with the local buffaloes, who were very comfortable around people, and enjoyed every minute of it. Just make sure to watch out for ‘buffalo chocolate’, as the locals called it, dotting the side of the road every now and then…(yes, we’re talking about poop).

After you spend the better part of a morning and afternoon exploring a local village and enjoying the views of rice fields, then take the rest of the day to head into the actual town of Sapa. While in Sapa, you must make time to enjoy the Sapa Market.

The vendors are selling everything from yummy snacks to awesome souvenirs, and everything in between! Feel free to barter, as this is an expected and welcome form of doing business throughout much of the country! 

Once you’ve explored all of the market, head for a fantastic dinner at one of Sapa’s fine restaurants. NHà Hàng Phố Núi Sapa, and Kingfisher Sapa are both absolutely wonderful, if you are looking for our opinion.

However, one of our favorite methods of deciding where to eat is to browse the city center and look at menus, searching for what food and ambience we would find most appealing that night. Once we’ve found something that looks great, we dive on in and typically have a lovely evening, and we are confident that you will too!

Which of these things to do in Sapa are you planning to add to your Sapa itinerary? 

This guest post was written in collaboration with Zach and Julie of Ruhls of the Road . Special thanks to Zach and Julie for sharing all their exceptionally knowledge with us!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You may also love...

Subscribe To The Newsletter

FOR TRAVEL INSPO   and   FUN

No spam, only fun!

Favorite Destinations

• About Jessica
• How to Plan a Trip
• Fave Travel Companies
• Shop My Faves

Destinations

• World Travel
• San Francisco
• Northern California
• Southern California
• Central Coast

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Things to do in Sapa, Vietnam

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on November 15, 2023

Set among some gorgeous scenery with sweeping, rice terrace-filled valleys, and mountains all around it, Sapa in the north of Vietnam truly is a delight to visit. While the center of the small town has become increasingly touristy in recent years, the surrounding region has a wealth of astounding natural tourist attractions for you to enjoy, with lots of amazing hikes and viewpoints on offer.

Tucked away amid the stunning landscapes are a number of charming and picturesque villages for you to visit. These are home to ethnic minorities and hill tribes such as the H’mong, Dao, and Hoa.

The northern part of Vietnam is renowned for its unique cultural make up, and one of the best things to do in Sapa is to learn more about its many people, languages, and cultures while enjoying the beautiful scenery all around you.

10. Stone Church

Lying at the heart of the town, Stone Church is one of the most important and impressive buildings in Sapa. You will inevitably pass by it at least a couple of times when wandering around. Dating back to 1930, the Church of our Lady of the Rosary, as it is also known, was constructed during the French colonial period and exhibits some wonderful architecture.

As it was built facing the sunrise, a great time to visit is early in the morning when the sun creeps over the horizon, dramatically illuminating the giant cross that dominates its facade.

The lovely little square in front of Stone Church often hosts traditional cultural events, and each Saturday evening there is a fantastic ‘love market’ for you to check out. Here, locals dressed in traditional clothes come together to sing, dance, and meet prospective partners, as well as buy and sell products. The festive atmosphere is a delight to take part in. With the lively market before it and the forest-coated Ham Rong Mountain behind it, Stone Church really does make for a majestic sight.

9. Sapa Market

Selling a huge range of fresh produce and local handicrafts, Sapa Market is a bustling place to explore that is simply a must if you want to see the authentic side of the town. Located right next to the bus station, the daily market is full of color and life, with stacks of fruits and vegetables piled up before you.

As Sapa is one of the main market towns in the region, lots of people come from the surrounding area to sell their wares or go shopping themselves. While there is now undoubtedly a more touristy feel about the market due to the recent surge in visitors to Sapa, it is still where most locals come to get their groceries. A great place to buy some souvenirs, Sapa Market is lots of fun to explore – just be prepared to haggle hard for anything you set your heart on.

8. Ham Rong Mountain

Overlooking the center of town, Ham Rong Mountain is home to a beautiful mix of natural and human-made landscapes, and is just a short stroll away from Stone Church. Meaning ‘Dragon Jaw’ in the local language, the mountain is named after its distinctive shape.

Hikers who make it up to its lofty peak are sure to enjoy a fantastic view out over the surrounding mountains and valleys, provided that it is a clear day.

Tumbling down its slopes, you can find some gorgeous orchards and gardens, with lots of lovely orchids. Meandering their way through the plethora of hydrangea, geraniums, and cherry blossom trees are some very tranquil and quiet paths for you to wander along at your leisure.

7. Thac Bac Waterfall

Cascading down the side of the mountain, the series of falls that make up Thac Bac Waterfall look incredible, and the lush trees and plants that lie to either side only add to the perfect scene. Standing at the bottom of the fall and watching the white jets of water tumble down from a height of some 200 meters or more is a magical feeling.

Located around 15 kilometers away from Sapa, he Silver Falls (as they are also known) are a very popular tourist destination, and lots of people visit while on their way to the nearby Tram Ton Pass.

6. Ta Phin Village

If you are looking to gain a greater understanding and appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultures found in the region, then it is well worth taking a trip to visit the sleepy, laidback village of Ta Phin. Nestled among rice terraces and mountains, the small collection of traditional houses are home to the Red Dao – a local ethnic group that still retain their proud heritage and culture.

While walking around, you’ll see people wearing traditional clothes and women sewing beautiful hand-crafted items. In addition to this, some people may even invite you into their home to show you how they live. Throughout the year, numerous local festivities take place, with weddings being particularly joyous affairs as the whole village breaks into song and dance to celebrate.

5. Love Waterfall

As the legend goes, Love Waterfall is so named because a fairy once fell in love with a boy who had come to bathe in the falls and was playing the flute. Once her parents found out, they forbade her to return to the falls. Heartbroken, she decided to turn herself into a bird so that she could forever fly around the falls and be with her love.

The enchantingly named Love Waterfall certainly does look as if it has just emerged from a fairytale as its gushing waters course magically down the rockface to the pool below. Tucked inside Hoang Lien National Park with Mount Fansipan lying not far off, Love Waterfall is well worth a visit, and the hike there takes you through some stunning landscapes.

4. Cat Cat Village

A very popular place to visit, Cat Cat Village lies just three kilometers away from Sapa. The hike there takes you through some magnificent mountain scenery, with rice terraces and cornfields on either side of you. Set in a very idyllic spot, it is one of the oldest villages in the region and retains much of its rich heritage and culture.

As such, it is a fantastic place to head if you want to learn more about the local H’mong and see how they live. As well as seeing how jewelry and textiles are made, visitors can visit or stay at a local home and even try their hand at making some of the traditional handicrafts.

3. Tram Ton Pass

Lying at the height of around 1,900 meters, the Tram Ton Pass is the highest mountain pass in the whole of the country. As such, it offers up some irresistible views of the valleys and mountains to either side of it. To get there, take the road from Sapa to Lai Chau. Many people stop off to see the glittering Silver Falls that lie nearby.

As the pass acts as a natural barrier between two weather fronts, you’ll often find that while one side is cloudy and wet, the other is warm and sunny. With such spectacular views on show, Tram Ton Pass is simply a must when exploring Sapa and its scenic surroundings.

2. Muong Hoa Valley

Home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Vietnam, the Muong Hoa Valley is a treat to visit, as neatly manicured rice terraces lie alongside rugged forest-coated mountains. Located just a stone’s throw away from Sapa, the valley makes for some fantastic trekking.

It is well worth staying a night in one of the local villages so you can experience first hand their humbling hospitality and generosity. While hiking through endless rice terraces with the majestic mountains all around you is unforgettable, it is meeting local families and communities that make it an even more memorable experience.

1. Mount Fansipan

Towering to a height of 3,141 meters, Mount Fansipan dominates its surroundings and is widely known as ‘the roof of Indochina.’ The tallest mountain in not only Vietnam but also Southeast Asia, the majestic mount is located just ten kilometers outside of Sapa. As such, lots of people come here to go hiking or mountain climbing. Wandering along its many paths and trails really is a delight. There is so much spectacular nature all around you, with over 1,680 types of plants on show.

The landscape changes the higher you go; from its lofty peak, there are some absolutely breathtaking views for you to revel in. This depends though on if the surrounding region isn’t shrouded in cloud, as it frequently is. To get to the top, visitors can either hike there themselves over the course of a few days or take a 15-minute scenic cable car ride above the beautiful Muong Hoa Valley.

Located in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, Mount Fansipan is definitely worth a visit if you have the chance, as there is just so much amazing nature for you to enjoy.

Best Time to Visit Sapa

Thanks to its mountainous setting, Sapa has a very favorable climate in comparison with Vietnam’s coastal cities. Much cooler and less humid, all its flower-filled valleys and terraced rice paddies are best to view in spring and autumn.

From February to April, tons of tourists pour in as the dry weather and warm temperatures of 22 to 30°C (71 to 86°F) are ideal for trekking and visiting nearby hill tribes. Besides basking in the beauty of its blooming flowers, you can enjoy its Vietnamese New Year celebrations.

Numbers drop off considerably until July and August when the rice terraces and valleys are greenest. While the daily downpours make hiking a wet affair, its fields and waterfalls look especially scenic. The town is quite full though as Vietnamese families head here on holiday.

September to November is another great time to visit as its landscapes turn a shiny golden color. As there is less rain, you can trek again or attend its Mid-Autumn Festival. Many also visit in December and January, hoping that snow will coat Sapa. Despite the cold, mist and mud making trekking unpleasant, its hotels are still packed for the holidays.

Throughout the year, the weekly Bac Ha and Sapa Love markets create a lively yet laidback atmosphere in town.

Share this post:

Where to Stay in Sapa: 8 Amazing Hotels

How to Spend 2 Weeks in Vietnam: DIY Itinerary

Visiting Hoi An Central Market, Vietnam

25 Top Tourist Attractions in Vietnam

Where to Stay in Hanoi: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

10 Most Beautiful Islands in Vietnam

10 Best Vietnam Luxury Resorts

11 Best Things to do in Halong Bay, Vietnam

6 Best Day Trips From Hanoi

12 Best Things to do in Dalat, Vietnam

Reader interactions.

November 29, 2023 at 3:01 am

Sapa’s once-pristine natural allure has diminished due to extensive construction activities.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Welcome to Sapa – Vietnam!

How to get to sapa.

Find Out >>

Accommodation

Tour - Activities

Entertainement

Tourist management

Top 10 Attractive Tourist Destinations In Sapa

Sapa by Photography

The most beautiful photos about Landscapes and People in Sa Pa

Find out >>

Video, Clips about Sapa

Discover the beauty of Sapa - Lao Cai through the amazing videos, clips

Watch now >>

Top 10 Hotels In Sapa 2021

Find More Hotels in Sapa >>

* We hate SPAM. Your privacy is 100% respected

• Hot Deal: Hanoi - Sapa - Halong Bay - 6 Days 5 Nights starts from only $393
• Search for:
• Login / Register
• Small Group Tours
• Private Tours
• Hanoi Tours
• Hai Phong Tours
• Halong Bay Tours
• Ninh Binh Tours
• Mai Chau Tours
• Moc Chau Tours
• Thanh Hoa Tours
• Cua Lo Tours
• Quang Binh Tours
• Hoi An Tours
• Da Nang Tours
• Da Lat Tours
• Nha Trang Tours
• Saigon – Ho Chi Minh City Tours
• Mekong Delta Tours
• Vung Tau Tours
• Phu Quoc Island Tours
• China Tours
• Indochina Tours
• Cambodia Tours
• Thailand Tours
• Myanmar Tours
• Malaysia Tours
• Indonesia Tours
• Tailor Made Tour
• 5 Star Cruises
• 4 Star Cruises
• 3 Star Cruises
• Day Cruises
• Overnight Cruises
• Catholic Pilgrimage
• Company profile
• Our services
• Why travel with us?
• Indochina Travel Guides
• Vietnam Travel Guides
• Laos Travel Guides
• Cambodia Travel Guides
• China Travel Guides
• Thailand Travel Guides
• Myanmar Travel Guides
• Malaysia Travel Guides
• Indonesia Travel Guides
• Hanoi Travel Guides
• Sapa Travel Guides
• Halong Bay Travel Guides
• Ninh Binh Travel Guides
• Hue Travel Guides
• Da Nang Travel Guides
• Hoi An Travel Guides
• Nha Trang Travel Guides
• Da Lat Travel Guides
• Vung Tau Travel Guides
• Saigon – Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guides
• Mekong Delta Travel Guides
• Phu Quoc Island Travel Guides

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

Top 10 most beautiful tourist attractions in sapa, vietnam.

Sapa , a mountain paradise in northern Vietnam, is home to a diverse collection of hill tribes and is surrounded by spectacular scenery. Experience the best of Vietnam by exploring tourist attractions in Sapa with its top 10 sights recommended by Asia Legend Travel , from Fansipan Peak to the terraced rice paddies.

Must-Go Tourist Attractions in Sapa: Fansipan Mountain

Speaking of tourist attractions in Sapa , many people call Fansipan Mountain the “Roof of Indochina,” and it is a big draw for places to visit in Sapa, Vietnam. It is the highest point in the area and has stunning views of lush scenery.

Visitors who want to be more daring can go on a difficult hike to the top, while others may choose to take the cable car for a more relaxing climb. Fansipan is a sacred site with both natural and cultural value, making it a must-see in the beautiful town of Sapa.

Sapa is in the northern mountains of Vietnam and has many interesting places to visit. Explore the lively town of Sapa, which is bordered by villages of ethnic minorities and terraced rice fields. At the Sapa Market , which is known for its traditional crafts, you can learn about the history of the area.

Get on a hike to the famous Fansipan, also known as the “Roof of Indochina,” for stunning views. The old stone carvings in Muong Hoa Valley and the Silver Waterfall are not to be missed. Sapa is a great place for people who love both nature and culture.

Muong Hoa Valley

Sapa, Vietnam , is home to some breathtaking scenery, and one of the best tourist attractions in Sapa it is Muong Hoa Valley . Check out all the amazing sights:

• Take in the beautiful terracing of the rice paddies.
• The Silver Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by verdant foliage.
• Explore the gorgeous falls and enchanted setting at Love Waterfall.
• Cat Cat Village is a great place to learn about native H’Mong traditions.
• Views of Sapa may be seen from afar if you hike up Ham Rong Mountain.
• Ascend Fansipan Peak, sometimes known as the “Roof of Indochina,” takes in spectacular views.

Cat Cat Village

Cat Cat Village is a fascinating place for tourists to visit in Sapa, Vietnam. In the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, this Hmong town gives you a look into the traditional way of life for hill tribes. People can look around at cute wooden houses, see how traditional crafts are made, and enjoy the beautiful tiered rice fields.

There is also a beautiful waterfall and a hydroelectric power station in the town. Visitors to Sapa should make a point of going to Cat Cat Village, which offers both traditional and scenic experiences.

Ta Phin Village

Ta Phin Village is a beautiful place for tourists to visit because it is surrounded by beautiful scenery in Sapa, Vietnam. The village is famous for its rich cultural history, and it gives visitors a real look into the daily lives of the Red Dao ethnic group.

People must see destinations in Sapa around traditional homes, see how locals make things, and have real cultural exchanges. The village’s beauty is enhanced by the tiered rice fields and lush vegetation that surround it. This makes it a must-see for travelers in Sapa who want to experience something unique and culturally enriching.

Love Waterfall

Love Waterfall is a beautiful place to visit in Sapa , Vietnam. The waterfall is known for its scenic beauty and romantic atmosphere. It is surrounded by lush vegetation and tiered rice fields. People can walk through beautiful scenery to get to the waterfall. Where to go in Sapa of water falling is mesmerizing.

Lovers of nature and people looking for a peaceful escape in the beautiful Sapa area often go to Love Waterfall to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and sound of the water flowing.

Ham Rong Mountain

Ham Rong Mountain is a must-see tourist attractions in Sapa for any visitor. The peak is popular among hikers because of the stunning vistas it provides of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and the terraced rice fields below.

The beautiful orchid gardens and traditional performances of the local ethnic minorities are must-sees for any vacationer. Nature lovers and cultural explorers alike should not miss Ham Rong Mountain, as its Heaven’s Gate viewpoint provides stunning views of Sapa town set against the verdant terrain.

Silver Waterfall

The Silver Waterfall is one of the beautiful natural tourist attractions in Sapa Vietnam. Cascading elegantly down the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, the waterfall gives a beautiful display of silver threads glittering in the sunlight.

Tourists can relax in the tranquil setting, which is characterized by abundant vegetation and breathtaking vistas. Silver Waterfall is a popular destination because it is a serene place to relax and take in the splendor of Sapa’s natural wonders.

Bac Ha Market

Sapa, Vietnam is home to the colorful and bustling Bac Ha Market. Held every Sunday, it lures tourists with its colorful ambiance and a large selection of ethnic minority products, including traditional fabrics, handicrafts, and fresh fruit.

The market is a great place for visitors to meet locals and get a feel for the region’s cultural richness. Bac Ha Market is not only a great place to do some retail therapy, but also to learn more about the local ethnic communities and their traditions.

Sapa Museum

The beautiful town of Sapa in northern Vietnam is home to the Sapa Museum, a cultural gem that shows off the area’s rich history. The museum takes you on an interesting trip through the history, traditions, and customs of the Hmong, Dao, and Tay people who live in the area.

People can look at displays of traditional clothes, tools, and other items to learn more about the unique way of life in the mountainous areas around Sapa. It is a must-see place for people who want to learn more about the area’s rich cultural history.

Beautiful sights may be found in Sapa, Vietnam. Muong Hoa Valley, Cat Cat Village, and Fansipan Peak all make the list of top 10 must-see destinations in Sapa . Experience the local cuisine in Sapa , visit some of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls, and learn about the region’s colorful ethnic cultures. The tourist attractions in Sapa are a magical place, because of their stunning landscapes and diverse cultural heritage.

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

Related travel guides.

Sapa Ancient Rock Field: A Guide to Whispers of Heritage

Best Night Train to Sapa: Top 6 Highly Recommended Options

Check out These Sapa Coffee Shop Perfect for Cloud Hunting

Sapa Coffee: Artisanal and Unforgettable Aromas

• Thang Long - Hanoi
• Overseas Vietnamese
• Most Recent
• Most Popular
• Mobile Version
• Party building
• Dien Bien Phu Victory 70 years on
• Human rights
• Patriotic emulation
• Green transition
• Digital transformation
• Climate change
• Post-pandemic recovery

Sa Pa to launch tourist products to attract visitors on upcoming holidays

Related News

Lao cai to hold cultural, sport activities to lure more visitors, lao cai targets 8.5 million tourist arrivals in 2024, gejiu - sa pa irregular passenger transport route resumed, travel firms, destinations gear up for korean tourist inflow during tet, ha long bay, sa pa selected as trending destinations in 2024 by tripadvisor, vietnam developing community-based tourism.

Lao Cai (VNA) – A series of activities are scheduled to take place in the northern mountainous province of Lao Cai – home to the resort town of Sa Pa on the occasion of the five-day holiday of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification Day (April 30) and May Day (May 1) from April 27 to May 1. They are the summer festival “Sa Pa – The Land of Love” and Fansipan Rose Festival 2024 themed “A Million Roses”. Visitors to Sa Pa on this occasion have a chance to enjoy a tourist product featuring a traditional love market; an art exchange programme among ethnic groups in Sa Pa town and the Pingbian district art troupe from China’s Yunnan province; a cuisine festival promoting traditional food of ethnic groups in Sapa; and community-based tourism areas such as Ta Phin and Cat Cat villages, Lao Chai - Ta Van tourist route. Meanwhile, Bao Yen district in Lao Cai province has kicked off the second folk culture festival in Nghia Do commune themed "Yellow colours along Nam Luong river" from April 15 to May 1.  Within the framework of the festival, there is a homestay contest, a cultural week to promote traditional costumes of local ethnic groups in the district, an exhibition of photos about Bao Yen land and people of Bao Yen, an exhibition of fine art paintings and space to promote typical agricultural and forestry products of communes and towns. Folk games have been held at Nghia Do commune, offering visitors opportunities to experience local culture and daily life. Sa Pa served an estimated 103,000 visitors during the National Reunification Day -May Day holidays last year, 105% higher than the same period the previous year./.

New sections on North-South expressway put into use

FDI flow into garment and textile sector bounces back

Noi Bai, Da Nang named in world’s top 100 airports

Hanoi exhibition highlights Dien Bien Phu Victory

Geneva Accords: A guide to Vietnamese diplomacy

You should also see.

RoK burgeoning market for Vietnam’s agro-forestry-fisheries exports

Infographic Ho Chi Minh Campaign: A shining landmark in the nation’s history

Two new sections on North-South expressway put into use

Khanh Hoa province seeks tourism partners in Thailand

Hanoi eco-farm excursions appeal to foreigner tourists

Trang An: Destination of wonders

Vietjet aims for 27 million passengers, 25% dividend payout in 2024

Dien Bien: Tua Chua's tourism potential needs to be further promoted

Surge in visitors prompts Dien Bien to mobilise local houses for accommodation