Hanoi to Lào Cai train with Vietnam Railways

Mon, Aug 10
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Vietnam Railways
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Vietnam Railways
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Hanoi to Lào Cai

Showing times and prices for Aug 10

Cheapest price

€21

Average price

€21

Fastest journey

7 h 17 m

Average duration

7 h 24 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

254 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Hanoi to Lào Cai is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Hanoi to Lào Cai will cost around €21 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €21.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Hanoi for Lào Cai on Mon, Aug 10, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Aug 10 the direct trains cover the 254 km distance in an average of 7 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 17 m .

On Mon, Aug 10 the slowest trains will take 7 h 32 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Vietnam Railways
    9:58 PM7h17
    Hanoi Gia Lam Station
    5:15 AMSapa Lao Cai
    €211One-way
    0 transfers
  • Vietnam Railways
    10:23 PM7h32
    Hanoi Gia Lam Station
    5:55 AMSapa Lao Cai
    €211One-way
    0 transfers
  • Vietnam Railways
    11:03 PM7h22
    Hanoi Gia Lam Station
    6:25 AMSapa Lao Cai
    €211One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Hanoi to Lào Cai

VietnamVietnam
VietnamVietnam
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Trains from Hanoi to Lào Cai run on average 9 times per day, taking around 8h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €28 but you can travel from only €8 by bus.

There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 09:30, the last at 23:03. The fastest train covers the 157 miles (254 km) distance in 8h 42m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €8
Distance
157 miles (254 km)
Average train duration
8h 42m
Cheapest ticket price
€28
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
9
Fastest train
8h 42m
First train
9:30 AM
Last train
11:03 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Fri
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €8

Train companies: Vietnam Railways from Hanoi to Lào Cai trainsVietnam Railways trains will get you between Hanoi and Lào Cai from €8. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Vietnam Railways

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 17m
Cheapest Price
€21
Vietnam Railways frequency
3 a day

FAQs: Trains from Hanoi to Lào Cai

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hanoi to Lào Cai by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Lào Cai, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Hanoi to Lào Cai can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €28, while the average price is around €35.
The train from Hanoi to Lào Cai takes 8h 42m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Hanoi to Lào Cai leaves at 9:30 AM.
The distance by train from Hanoi to Lào Cai is 157 miles (254 km).
The last train from Hanoi to Lào Cai leaves at 11:03 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Hanoi to Lào Cai.
Yes, there is a direct train from Hanoi to Lào Cai. This service operates 9 times per day, provided by Vietnam Railways.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Hanoi to Lào Cai.
The train station in Hanoi that goes to Lào Cai is Hanoi Railway Station, which connects to Lao Cai Railway Station.
Yes, the Hanoi to Lào Cai train journey is considered scenic, offering views of lush landscapes, terraced rice fields, and distant mountains along the way.
Yes, you can take the train from Hanoi to Lào Cai.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). For travelers, cash is generally preferred for small purchases and markets, while cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and stores in major cities. It's advisable to carry both for convenience.
In Lào Cai, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging for taxis and motorbike rentals, so it's advisable to agree on prices beforehand or use metered services. Additionally, some guides may offer unofficial tours at inflated rates, so booking through reputable agencies is recommended. Awareness of weather conditions is also important, as mountainous areas can pose risks during heavy rains or landslides.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

Most popular train connections from Hanoi

Train Hanoi - Huế
Train Hanoi - Da Nang

More options for your journey from Hanoi to Lào Cai

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Return journeys for trains from Lào Cai to Hanoi
HomeTrainsHanoi to Lào Cai train

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