Sapa is a cultural town known for its stunning village and mountain trekking, beautiful rice paddies, and colorful weekly markets. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine, hiking in nature, or taking in the beauty, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Sapa, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Sapa?
You should plan to spend around $46 (d1,189,701) per day on your vacation in Sapa. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $27 (d702,667) on meals
- $9.09 (d235,647) on local transportation
- $23 (d605,878) on hotels
A one week trip to Sapa for two people costs, on average, $643 (d16,655,814). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$321
d8,327,907
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$643
d16,655,814
-
One Month
Per person
$1,377
d35,691,030
-
One Week
For a couple
$643
d16,655,814
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$1,285
d33,311,628
-
One Month
For a couple
$2,754
d71,382,060
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Sapa cost?
A one week trip to Sapa usually costs around $321 (d8,327,907) for one person and $643 (d16,655,814) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Sapa on average costs around $643 (d16,655,814) for one person and $1,285 (d33,311,628) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Sapa will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Sapa on average costs around $1,377 (d35,691,030) for one person and $2,754 (d71,382,060) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Sapa expensive to visit?
Sapa is a popular town that appeals to many visitors, featuring an array of travel styles and spending habits. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
While Sapa can be quite expensive if you let it be, there are ways to lower your spending, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $18 (d461,176) per day, mid-range travelers spend $46 (d1,189,701) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $122 (d3,137,536) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Sapa.
Within Asia, Sapa is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in Asia for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Luang Prabang, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Similan Islands.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Sapa Expensive?
The rice fields near Sapa, Vietnam
How much money do I need for a trip to Sapa?
The average Sapa trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Sapa travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Sapa cost?
Sapa on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$4
(d109,833)
|
$12
(d302,939)
|
$35
(d909,637)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$4
(d95,942)
|
$9
(d235,647)
|
$21
(d554,482)
|
|
Food2
|
$11
(d276,521)
|
$27
(d702,667)
|
$69
(d1,792,797)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$2
(d62,368)
|
$6
(d153,448)
|
$14
(d362,640)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$2-5
(d41,472-124,417)
|
$4-12
(d102,418-307,255)
|
$9-28
(d244,297-732,890)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's essential to keep realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many people think they can visit Sapa cheaply, but most travelers aren't comfortable with an extreme "shoestring" budget. Consider what you truly enjoy on vacation. Do you prefer resorts, vacation homes, or hostels? Is experiencing attractions and dining important to you? Your budget and itinerary will depend on your answers to these questions.
The Truth on Budget Travel
You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $18 per day that younger budget travelers manage.
Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.
Luckily, there are plenty of hostels in Sapa, such as Lustig Hostel, Tavan Chopai Homestay, and Mega View Homestay. Staying at these hostels means you can score affordable dorm lodging and a lively social vibe, but be prepared for basic amenities. Food is a major draw for all kinds of visitors to Sapa, but budget travelers frequently rely on street food or prepare their own meals in hostels, which means they might miss out on the amazing local cuisine.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
If you're a couple or family taking a fun trip, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at favorite restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. A significant number of visitors to Sapa will want to tour the main attractions, museums, and landmarks. Most activities have costs involved. Thus, it's realistic to expect your daily budget to be closer to $46 per person, per day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Sapa. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. When traveling as a family, you'll want to find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Sapa Horizon Hotel is a good kid-friendly option, and Sapa Unique Hotel is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Sapa here.
Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?
For a trip that encompasses every convenience with outstanding service, get ready for a daily cost nearing $122. To experience nicer hotels, enjoy award-winning cuisine, indulge in extravagant outings, and use taxis or private drivers for your journeys in the town, be prepared for premium pricing.
Accommodation Budget in Sapa
Prices for hotels in Sapa vary widely, with luxury hotels charging more due to higher amenities. In the off-season, expect to pay around $25, but during peak winter season, average prices climb to $47. With options ranging from $13 to $103, there's something for every budget. Hostels are usually cheaper, especially dorm rooms. To save, book during the off-season or keep an eye out for special deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Sapa for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $23 (d605,878). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $12 (d302,939) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Sapa? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Sapa include:
- Victoria Sapa Resort & Spa starting at $65
- Aira Boutique Sapa Hotel & Spa starting at $46
- Sapa Highland Resort & Spa starting at $56
- Amazing Hotel Sapa Sa Pa starting at $69
- Sapa Horizon Hotel starting at $56
With Sapa's good public transit, staying on the outskirts of the town is possible to save money, but the transportation costs and commute time could add up quickly.
Sapa is known for being family friendly, so when traveling with kids, look for accommodations that offer more space.
By traveling in the off-peak times like the low or shoulder season, and steering clear of winter, you'll find cheaper lodging and smaller crowds.
Many people love to walk around Sapa, so you'll want to choose accommodation in a central area. However, this can mean a higher price point.
Transportation Budget in Sapa
Sapa's public transit system connects to several major sights. There are public buses through the region. If you're hoping to visit nearby towns for their market days, an organized tour or private guide is a good option. To save money and travel efficiently, public transport is a good option if it's near your location, but taxis and rideshares are always around for convenience.
Those who enjoy exploring on foot will have a great time here. Trekking is, by far, the best way to experience the area and all of the beauty and culture that it has to offer.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $9.09 (d235,647) per person, per day, on local transportation in Sapa. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Sapa is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$9.09
d235,647
If you're not traveling to the area from China, it's easy to catch a train from Hanoi and spend a few days in Sapa. The trip is about 9 hours and there is a wide range of comfort level between cars. Some train cars are run by Vietnam Rail while others are operated by private companies.
Once you're in the town you can walk almost anywhere and the best way to explore the nearby villages is to do a trek. Come prepared for mud though, as rain is quite common and the area is filled with rice terraces, which gather water. It can also be challenging to find the trail, but it is easy to ask a local for directions. Alternatively, you can book a tour in town with a guide who can show you the way, but this is not necessary.
How much does it cost to go to Sapa? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Sapa will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Below, you'll find common transit prices in Sapa, gathered from real traveler experiences. These numbers offer a general sense of transportation expenses. It's important to note that your costs may vary depending on your transportation choice, with taxis and other hired vehicles usually costing significantly more than public transit.
-
Short Motorbike Ride
d30,000
Food Budget in Sapa
Make sure to enjoy the fantastic food in Sapa by taking the time to savor all the local flavors. The area's food highlights the local agricultural scene with lots of meat, fish, and vegetables. If you want to check out traditional Hmong cuisine, Thang Co is one of the most common dishes. It's a soup that has a strong smell and is prepared with local herbs and meats.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Sapa can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Sapa is $27 (d702,667) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$27
d702,667
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Sapa is around $27 (d702667) per person, with previous travelers spending from $11 to $70. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Sapa are as follows:
- Breakfast: $3 to $8
- Lunch: $4 to $11
- Dinner: $8 to $19
- Coffee: $2
- Fast Food or Street Food: $4
There is no shortage of restaurants in Sapa, but most have similar menus. Italian and French food are surprisingly common in the area, as is traditional Vietnamese. European cuisine is usually more expensive and highly variable in quality. Baguettes are also available around town and several places offer interesting dessert pastries. In the market you can pick up a cheap bowl of noodle soup. It's usually quite good and offers a more authentic experience than most of the sit down restaurants. There's also a local grocery store to the east of the lake with reasonable prices.
When eating out with children, look for places that provide a kids' menu. This can help you save a significant amount since those meals are typically priced lower. Be aware that some restaurants may not list the kids' options, so it's wise to inquire with your waiter beforehand.
Many accommodations feature breakfast in their rates, while some may charge additional fees for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly from one hotel to another. Knowing this information ahead of time helps you decide if you need to spend extra money. A tasty hotel buffet could be worth the expense, or a nearby bakery or cafe might offer a more affordable choice.
Save money while enjoying the scenery by planning a picnic. Visit a local grocery store or market, gather some fresh treats, and find a lovely park or scenic spot to relish your meal.
Keep a water bottle with you to cut down on drink purchases. It's also better for the environment.
When planning a tour, don't forget to look into which meals are covered. You may be responsible for some of your own food, which could impact your budget significantly.
Typical food prices in Sapa, as reported by previous travelers, are outlined below. These costs offer a snapshot of what meals might cost in the city. Your personal expenses will vary depending on the type of dining experiences you choose and the dishes you order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Sapa
It's evident that Sapa is a hotspot for tourists, largely due to its hiking, food, family-friendly activities, and romance.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Sapa typically cost an average of $5.92 (d153,448) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$5.92
d153,448
People travel to Sapa because it is a charming mountain town with an interesting character and beautiful surrounding areas. It's absolutely one of the top places to visit in Vietnam. There are many beautiful viewpoints in the area, but the weather can often limit the views themselves. There are a handful of interesting sights around the town. One popular sight is the Sa Pa Culture Museum, that highlights the history and culture of the area. There are also some lingering French colonial buildings in the area including the church and the Town Hall building. Ham Rong Resort offers good views of the area and has a beautiful garden.
Many people spend their time doing one of the most popular activities of the area: hill trekking in Sapa. There are organized trekking trips, or it's possible to go it alone. Homestays are also a common option and can be combined with hill trekking. The surrounding landscape and scenery is unique here, as the rolling hills and mountains around Sapa are covered with terraced rice fields, quaint local villages, picturesque streams, and plenty of easy walking trails which the local H'mong people use to get around.
Cooking classes are also a popular activity. The Hill Station Restaurant offers a class that can be arranged a day in advance. The chefs are H'mong and speak excellent English. They take you to the market where you buy the ingredients to make five local dishes. You dine on your prepared food in the restaurant when the class is over.
Several of the nearby villages have impressive markets as well. The easiest way to visit them is on a tour, but there is some public transportation available, too. You may have to spend the night in the town if you choose to take public transportation, though. The markets are colorful and impressive and should not be missed if you're in the area. The Bac Ha market is one of the most popular.
If you're looking for souvenirs, there is no shortage of tourist trinkets for sell around town. The H'mong are known for their colorful fabrics from which they make clothing and purses. The style does not translate easily into western culture, but it is fun to look at the options.
Hiking:
The hiking opportunities around Sapa are outstanding. Trekking is, by far, one of the best ways to experience the area's beauty. You'll pass by scenic rice paddies, walk along mist covered mountains, and stumble into fascinating villages. Many people hire a local guide to guide them. This helps the local economy and offers insider information.
Shopping:
Shopping here is something you definitely shouldn't overlook. Many villages have a weekly market that is very fascinating to explore. In addition to local food items, there are often locally made handicrafts that make great souvenirs from your travels.
Outlined below are some typical prices for entry fees and activities in Sapa. They have been reported from the expenses of previous travelers. These costs provide an idea of what you might need to spend, though your individual expenses will depend on the activities you participate in, the places you visit, and how often you choose budget-friendly or free activities.
Nightlife Budget in Sapa
Sapa does have some nightlife activities, but it doesn't compare to the excitement found in more popular destinations. While you don't visit the area for its nightlife, there's a big backpacker scene here so you'll likely find a crowd looking for a good time. The town has a night market and there are plenty of bars that cater to the tourists.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $7.90 (d204,836) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Sapa per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$7.90
d204,836
Nights out are fun, but limiting your alcohol consumption can help keep your travel costs in check.
Be vigilant if you're out at night, especially if alcohol is involved. Thieves often target distracted individuals, so it's smart to stay with trusted friends and avoid going off by yourself.
Here are some typical drink and nightlife prices in Sapa, drawn from the experiences of past travelers. These costs can give you a general sense of what to expect, though your own spending will differ based on how often you enjoy alcoholic beverages and how much you consume. Remember, one of the most effective ways to reduce your travel costs is to limit alcohol consumption.
Travel cost data last updated: Apr 4, 2025
Traveling in Sapa
Rice Terraces near Sapa, Vietnam
Sapa is a beautiful town in the northern mountains of Vietnam by the border with China. Many travelers pass through the area on their way from China into Hanoi. Alternatively, some travelers head north from Hanoi to spend a few days in the beautiful mountains where tribal cultures are still alive and well. There are a good number of ethnic minorities that populate the area. The eight populations in the area include H'mong, Dao, Tay, Giay, Muong, Thai, Hoa, and Xa Pho, but the vast majority in the area are H'mong. Within the town of Sapa itself, there are about 7,000 people. The rest of the population lives in the surrounding countryside and are peasant farmers.
The climate in the area is very seasonal. Summers have a subtropical climate while winters have a temperate climate. The town is located at 1500 meters and highs can climb to the mid 80s Fahrenheit while lows drop to the mid 30s Fahrenheit. July and August are the hottest months and December and January are the coldest. The wet season is from May to September with July and August being the wettest months.
Neighborhoods & Around
Sapa is a small mountain town with a diverse population of ethnic minorities. There are about 36,000 people who live in the small communities throughout the district, and 7,000 who live in Sapa proper. It's possible to trek to some of the hill tribe communities, as there are trails that connect most areas. Sapa is a perfect base for exploring the area.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.