Hanoi – Sapa – Fansipan: Adventure Itinerary
5 Days 4 Nights
400+ booked
Tour Overview
This 5-day, 4-night journey offers a perfect combination of Vietnam’s capital charm and the majestic landscapes of the northern highlands. Starting in Hanoi, explore the cultural landmarks of the city, taste authentic local dishes like Pho, and take in the rhythm of daily life at the iconic Train Street and bustling Old Quarter.
Travel through scenic mountain roads to Sapa, a picturesque hill station surrounded by rice terraces and home to ethnic minorities such as the H’Mong, Dao, Tay, and Giay. Visit Cat Cat Village to learn about traditional lifestyles, explore local markets filled with handicrafts, and admire colonial-era architecture like the Sapa Stone Church.
The highlight of your trip is a ride to the summit of Fansipan Mountain – the "Roof of Indochina" – via one of the world’s longest and highest cable cars. Then, test your nerves at the stunning Rong May Glass Bridge, suspended high above terraced hills and lush valleys.
End your journey back in Hanoi, with a relaxing visit to Hoan Kiem Lake, an enchanting water puppet show, and time for shopping in the vibrant Old Quarter. This tour offers not only breathtaking scenery but also deep cultural immersion – a true escape to Vietnam’s spiritual and natural heart.
Tour Highlights
- Discover Hanoi’s iconic landmarks – Train Street, French Opera House, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and Hoan Kiem Lake
- Savor an authentic bowl of Vietnamese Pho upon arrival
- Walk through Cat Cat Village – meet H’Mong locals, visit waterfalls, and a French hydroelectric station
- Explore Sapa Market – shop for silverware and handmade ethnic textiles
- Ride the Fansipan Cable Car to the Roof of Indochina (3,143m) – breathtaking panoramic views
- Walk across the Rong May Glass Bridge – a thrilling glass skywalk above clouds and terraced hills
- Experience Vietnamese water puppetry and shop at Hanoi’s 36-street Old Quarter
Itinerary
Start
End
Destination
Hanoi
Fansipan
Sapa
Day 1: Hanoi Arrival – City Tour
Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, meet your guide and enjoy a warm bowl of traditional Pho – Vietnam’s most iconic dish.
Afterward, visit key landmarks including Train Street, the French Opera House, and St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
Dinner and overnight in Hanoi.
Day 2: Hanoi – Lao Cai – Cat Cat Village – Sapa
After breakfast, transfer to Sapa by bus (approx. 5 hours).
Upon arrival, enjoy lunch, then walk downhill to visit Cat Cat Village, where you can see H’Mong villagers working on rice fields and tending animals.
Explore the old French-built hydroelectric station and relax by the village waterfall.
In the late afternoon, return to town to visit Sapa Market – a colorful gathering spot for ethnic minorities selling local goods – and stop by the Sapa French Church.
Dinner and overnight in Sapa.
Day 3: Sapa – Fansipan Peak – Rong May Glass Bridge
Breakfast at hotel, then head to Fansipan Mountain by cable car and funicular.
At 3,143 meters above sea level, enjoy panoramic views from the highest peak in Indochina, surrounded by forested slopes and drifting clouds.
Afterward, return to Sapa and have lunch.
In the afternoon, visit the Rong May Glass Bridge, perched over 2,000 meters high with sweeping views of tea plantations, terraced fields, and mountain ranges.
Dinner and overnight in Sapa.
Day 5: Hanoi Departure
Breakfast at hotel. Free time at leisure until transfer to Noi Bai Airport for your flight home.
End of services.
What’s Included
Trip Notes
Fansipan Cable Car operation is subject to weather conditions – may be closed due to high winds or fog
The Rong May Glass Bridge may not be suitable for guests with fear of heights or limited mobility
Moderate walking involved; comfortable walking shoes recommended
Bring warm clothing, especially during winter months (November–February)
Vegetarian or dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice
Itinerary may be adjusted to accommodate traffic, weather, or local regulations
4.9 (10)
Day 4: Sapa – Hanoi – Water Puppet Show
After breakfast, depart Sapa for the return journey to Hanoi. En route, stop at the Vietnam–China border for a photo opportunity.
After lunch, visit Hoan Kiem Lake and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show – a unique cultural performance.
Stroll and shop in the Old Quarter before dinner and overnight in Hanoi.
4 nights accommodation in well-rated 3–4 star hotels (2 nights Hanoi, 2 nights Sapa)
Daily meals as per itinerary: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
Entrance fees for all attractions: Cat Cat Village, Fansipan Cable Car + Funicular, Rong May Glass Bridge, Water Puppet Show, etc.
Professional English-speaking local guide
Bottled drinking water during transfers
Airport transfers in Hanoi (arrival and departure)
Any other services not clearly mentioned in the itinerary
Travel insurance
Tips for guide and driver (optional but appreciated)
Personal expenses (e.g. drinks, laundry, shopping)
Visa fees (if required for Vietnam entry)
Round-trip transportation Hanoi – Sapa – Hanoi by tourist bus or limousine
International or domestic airfare to/from Hanoi