2025 Lao Cai Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

The Northwest region is the western mountainous region of Northern Vietnam, including 6 provinces of Hoa Binh, Son La, Dien Bien, Lai Chau, Lao Cai and Yen Bai, sharing the border with Laos and China. Administratively, the Northwest region includes the provinces of Lai Chau, Dien Bien, Son La, Hoa Binh, Yen Bai, and Lao Cai. The Northwest region is the cultural space of the Thai ethnic group with a typical flower dance that is well-known to many people. In addition, there are about 20 other ethnic groups such as H'Mong, Dao, Tay, Kinh, Nung, etc. living here. Famous for its picturesque natural scenery, peaceful villages and gentle, rustic and hospitable people, this place has captivated many domestic and foreign tourists to explore the land. this miracle. Coming to the Northwest, visitors will not be surprised by the picturesque mountain scenery, the life of the highland people is still a bit wild but peaceful and quiet. Visitors will have the feeling of being immersed in nature, away from the noisy urban life, full of joy and happiness. The Northwest mountains always bring people endless beauty. mountains. The high mountains in the Northwest are immense, making us feel extremely small in front of nature and the magnificence of this place. The flower seasons keep making people forget their names with their unique yet strangely beautiful beauty. The season of mustard flowers, plum flowers, white apricot flowers in Moc Chau sky, peach blossoms bloom bringing spring to villages throughout the Northwest, white flowers fall on the road, pure beautiful banyan flowers next to the pretty little stilt house, proud azalea flowers Proud of the highest mountain ranges…#trip#vietnam

Duc Huy Grand Hotel and Spa is a 4-star hotel in Lao Cai. Lao Cai is a city that borders China. The hotel is very convenient. There is a shopping mall next to the hotel. Inside the hotel is luxurious and magnificent. The equipment in the room is complete. Lao Cai is a city before reaching Sapa. We can stay in this city before going up to Sapa. Or, when returning from Sapa, stop by and visit this city before going to Hanoi. If anyone stops by to stay, I recommend this hotel. #Vietnam #Book a luxury hotel #Travel abroad #Sleep and relax in a beautiful accommodation #Sapa #Accommodation with a great view

📅 Itinerary Day1：Arrived from Kunming to Lao Cai via train Take bus from Lao Cai to Sapa Day2: Go to Fansipan in the morning & Cat Cat Village in the evening Day3: Take night bus to hanoi 🏨 Accommodation - Ho Ann Sapa 🍴 Food Recommendations - Restaurant banana leaf 📌 Tips - Buy train ticket, hotel from trip.com #myitinerary

Lao Cai City (Vietnamese: Thành phố Lào Cai), the capital of Lao Cai Province, is located on the Vietnam-China border, facing Hekou County in China's Yunnan Province across the river. It is a destination rich in history, ethnic culture, and natural beauty. Below is a brief overview of its tourism highlights: 1. A Crossroads of History and Culture Lao Cai City serves as a vital trade and cultural exchange hub between Vietnam and China. Its urban landscape blends French colonial architecture with traditional Vietnamese elements, such as the gray-white buildings around Lao Cai Railway Station, which bear the historical imprint of French colonial rule. Additionally, the city was a stronghold for the Black Flag Army during the 19th-century resistance against French forces, with sites like Liu Gong Temple narrating the shared history of Vietnam and China in repelling foreign invaders. Strolling through Lao Cai's streets offers a glimpse into the city's multicultural essence and a snapshot of Vietnam's modern history. 2. Dual Charm of Nature and Culture Natural Attractions: Nearby Sa Pa is a must-visit destination, home to Vietnam's highest peak, Fansipan (3,143 meters above sea level). Its misty terraced fields and ethnic minority villages create a picturesque rural landscape. Community Tourism: Areas like Ta Phin in Sa Pa offer community-based tourism projects, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the traditional lifestyles of ethnic groups such as the Dao and Hmong. Homestays retain indigenous architectural styles and provide activities like herbal baths, handicraft workshops, and green farming experiences, including rice field cultivation and traditional song and dance performances. 3. Authentic Local Life and Nightlife Lao Cai City's markets and night bazaars are perfect for experiencing local life. During the day, visitors can savor authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho and spring rolls in Lao Cai Ward (Phường Lào Cai). At night, the brightly lit streets come alive with street performers, showcasing the vibrancy of Vietnamese urban life. Nearby cafes and handicraft shops offer spaces for shopping and relaxation, such as French-style cafes where visitors can sip Vietnamese coffee while enjoying views of the Red River. 4. Practical Travel Tips Convenient Transportation: Lao Cai is accessible via a 5-6 hour train or bus ride from Hanoi, or through the Hekou border crossing from Yunnan, making it ideal for planning a cross-border trip. Best Seasons: Sa Pa's terraced fields are most stunning during the irrigation period (March-May) and harvest season (September-October), while Lao Cai City is suitable for year-round visits, with cool temperatures in winter. Nearby Attractions: Combine visits to Sa Pa National Park, Fansipan Cable Car, and ethnic minority markets (such as the Saturday Bac Ha Market) for a 3-5 day itinerary to explore both natural and cultural landscapes. Conclusion With its unique borderland charm, ethnic minority culture, and natural resources, Lao Cai City stands out as a tourism highlight in Vietnam's northwest. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature explorer, or cultural immersion seeker, Lao Cai offers a travel rhythm tailored to your interests. As community tourism and ecological conservation continue to develop, Lao Cai City is poised to become a model for sustainable tourism in the future.

Recently, I visited Lao Cai, Vietnam, and stayed at the highly-rated Sapa Legacy Hotel & Resort. The overall experience was impressive, showcasing excellent value for money in terms of location, service quality, and facilities. This hotel is perfect for travelers looking to explore Lao Cai and nearby attractions in Sa Pa. Prime Location and Convenient Transportation The hotel is centrally located in Lao Cai, just a 10-minute drive from Lao Cai Train Station, making it extremely convenient for those arriving via the overnight Hanoi-Lao Cai train. Additionally, it is close to the bus transfer station to Sa Pa, and the front desk staff can assist with booking shuttle services, saving travelers the hassle of planning transportation. While the surrounding area is not a bustling commercial district, there are local food stalls and convenience stores within walking distance, providing sufficient amenities. Upon check-in, the first impression was the professionalism and warmth of the front desk staff. They communicate fluently in English and even offer basic Chinese, making it very friendly for international travelers. Notably, the front desk provides detailed information about nearby attractions, such as the Sa Pa terraces and Fansipan Peak, and proactively helps arrange car rentals and tour guides, making trip planning more efficient. Simple Yet Comfortable Rooms and Facilities The hotel features modern minimalist decor with touches of traditional Vietnamese elements, such as wooden carvings and ethnic textiles, creating a cozy atmosphere. I stayed in a "Mountain View Double Room" on a high floor, which was spacious and clean. The bed was moderately firm, and the bathroom had a separate wet and dry area with strong water pressure. While not luxurious, the room was equipped with essentials like air conditioning, a safe, a mini-fridge, and free Wi-Fi. The large windows offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains, with morning mist creating a serene scene. Local Flavors and International Options The hotel’s restaurant serves both Vietnamese and Western breakfast options. I highly recommend trying the freshly made Vietnamese pho and French baguettes (banh mi), which are authentic in flavor. For dinner, you can order local specialties like clay pot chicken (Ga nau nbi dat) or bamboo rice, which are made with fresh ingredients and reasonably priced. If you wish to explore local street food, the front desk staff enthusiastically recommend nearby Lao Cai night market stalls. The hotel also offers self-service laundry machines, which are very convenient and affordable. If you don’t have time to wait for your laundry, the front desk staff can assist without charging extra—a truly thoughtful service. High-Value Accommodation Hub Overall, Sapa Legacy Hotel stands out for its convenient location, sincere service, and reasonable pricing, making it an ideal base for exploring Northwest Vietnam. Whether as a stopover en route to Sa Pa or for an immersive experience of Lao Cai’s local culture, this hotel meets all needs. Highly recommended for budget-conscious travelers who value practicality and wish to experience the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality!

#springitinerary If you’re into quiet, underrated spots with serious scenic vibes, Murong Hua Station is such a springtime win. Tucked away in the mountains, this old railway station feels like stepping into a movie set, think vintage architecture, misty hills, and cherry blossoms blooming like crazy. Spring brings the place to life, with flowers everywhere and that crisp, fresh mountain air that just hits different. It’s not super touristy, which makes strolling around feel peaceful and kinda magical. Perfect for slow travel days, take your time, snap some dreamy photos, maybe sip tea while soaking up the views. There's a nostalgic charm to it, like a place time forgot in the best way possible. Whether you’re into nature, quiet spots, or just something a little off the beaten path, Murong Hua Station in spring is pure chill. Bring a camera, wear comfy shoes, and enjoy the calm.

#springitinerary Just a short trek from Sapa town, Cat Cat Village is a charming destination that blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Spring is one of the best times to visit, with blooming cherry and apricot blossoms adding vibrant color to the rustic mountain landscape. As you wander down stone-paved paths, you’ll pass traditional wooden houses of the H’mong people, where locals demonstrate crafts like weaving and silver carving. The soothing sound of the nearby Cat Cat Waterfall completes the peaceful vibe, making it a perfect spot for photos and relaxation. You can also rent traditional outfits for a more immersive (and Instagram-worthy) experience. While the village can get busy, especially midday, visiting early offers a quieter, more magical experience. Cat Cat is ideal for travelers looking to soak in authentic culture, scenic beauty, and a bit of peaceful mountain life, all in one lovely spring day.

✨ALL EXPERIENCES OF TRAVELING TO THE NORTHWEST 🌿 The Northwest of Vietnam always contains mysteries for those who love to explore! So Mavis dedicates this article so that you can understand more about the beautiful Northwest highlands, and will choose the land you want to go to after everything is stable again! 🥰 🌿 THE IDEAL TIME TO GO TO THE NORTHWEST: Because it is endowed with extremely majestic landscapes, the Northwest generally has its own unique features in every season, but the most special are: • January and February are the spring flower seasons when peach blossoms, apricot blossoms, and plum blossoms bloom throughout the forests • May and June are the seasons when water flows and the mountains and hills are like mirrors • August - October are the seasons when rice ripens and turns golden all over the terraced fields • November - February are the peak season for cloud hunting with the majestic sea of ​​clouds covering the mountains and hills 🌿 WHERE TO GO WHEN COMING TO THE NORTHWEST? Mavis will review the most worth-visiting places in 6 provinces in the Northwest ❤️: 1️⃣ Lao Cai: • The most famous place in Lao Cai is Sapa - home to Fansipan peak, the roof of Indochina, one of the four majestic O Quy Ho pass peaks and villages with beautiful terraced fields. • If you like hunting clouds and snow, you can go to Y Ty, a quite wild place with rammed earth houses immersed in a sea of ​​clouds, where there are 2 giant trees on the mountainside. • In addition, there is a route from Sapa to Simacai - Bac Ha, this route during the ripe rice season is super beautiful, you can combine exploring the famous Bac Ha market and admiring buckwheat flowers on the hills in Simacai. 2️⃣ Son La • The most popular place in Son La is Moc Chau, which is famous for its plum seasons, vast green tea hills and delicious dairy products. In Moc Chau, there are also many beautiful waterfalls such as Dai Yem waterfall, Chieng Khoa waterfall. Those who like the wild can visit the primitive village - Hang Tau. • In addition, there is a beautiful place where tourism is gradually developing, Ta Xua - a cloud hunting paradise. When you come here, you must try climbing the dinosaur's back to hunt for the sea of ​​clouds. In the ripe rice season, the road from Ta Xua to Hang Dong is also very beautiful. • Son La also has Muong Tac field - the 4th largest field in the 4 largest rice fields in the Northwest. 3️⃣ Yen Bai • The place with the Mu Cang Chai terraced fields paradise is famous for its villages filled with beautiful ripe rice fields. From Mu Cang Chai, you can combine going to Khau Pha - one of the four great mountain passes, to Tu Le valley to try the famous delicious green rice dish and experience parachuting over Lim Mong valley. • Here is Thac Ba hydroelectric plant - the first hydroelectric plant in Vietnam with Thac Ba lake which is also very beautiful - known as "Ha Long on the mountain" of the Northwest. • If anyone likes wild places, they can go to Tram Tau, bathe in hot mineral springs, explore Cu Vai village, conquer Hang Te Cho waterfall and many beautiful villages. • Yen Bai has Muong Lo field - the second largest rice field in the four largest rice fields in the Northwest mountains. 4️⃣ Hoa Binh • Famous tourist destinations in Hoa Binh include Hoa Binh hydroelectric plant, White Stone Pass, Thung Nai,...

#aprilblooms #sapavietnam #fansipan #fansipanmountain Today, I went to Fansipan around 9:30 Am. I took Bike to Fansipan cable car station, and the cost is around 90,000 for round trips. Cable car and fanicular was about 1,007,000 Dong. After dropping out from Cable car, there are so many stairs to fanicular. I'm really so tired (is there anyone same feeling with me?😅) So, I had two bean cakes ( 30,000 dong) as I needed to get the energy to wait, Fanicular about 40 mins. The view is so amazing, and the weather is so cold. I recommend foot massage near sapa station for sleeping well at night.😆 #vietnam #fansipanmountain #sapa #attraction #laocai

#MarchGoodPlaces2025 Lao Cai, Vietnam is a world-famous tourist resort city, with thousands of tourists coming here for sightseeing and vacation every day. This time, I will introduce the travel guide of Lao Cai Transportation: Get on the high-speed train at Kunming South Station at 8:26 and arrive at Hekou North Station at 13:07. After exiting the station, there are buses to the city and the fare is 2 yuan. If you are going to visit Lao Cai, Vietnam, remember to bring your passport and apply for a visa in advance. 【Must-check-in list】 China-Vietnam Railway Bridge: The green train on the century-old meter-gauge is in the same frame with the boundary monument, located on the left side next to the Hekou Port Building 🏢, the recommended time is 8 am (occasionally an international train passes through) Vietnamese Street Night Market: Vietnamese rice noodle rolls, tapioca cakes, and drip coffee. Yunnan-Vietnam Railway Exhibition Hall: The treasure of the town is the 1910 French-made steam locomotive, 🎫 Tickets are free (closed on Mondays)

#VietnamTravel #LaoCaiChurch This church, made of sky blue tones, has a cute appearance like a model church you can see in a prop shop, and when there is a local event, various commemorative ceremonies are held at the church, and it is also a place of joy for the citizens of Lao Cai... In particular, during Christmas or the Vietnamese New Year, there are even more events and the church is decorated splendidly, so if you happen to visit Lao Cai during this time, I recommend visiting it. I think the church is one of the pretty good places to meet locals and feel their appearance.

#VietnamTravel #LaoCaiCathedral Located in the local area of ​​downtown Lao Cai, this church is near the Kok Lao Cai local market in front of the bridge near the border, so it is an important church that many Lao Cai citizens visit to pray. The exterior of the church looks like a cute toy model, but it is quite large in size compared to its appearance because it is located in the center of Lao Cai. It would be nice to stop by and admire the church while looking around the Lao Cai border market. If you are lucky, you can see the sublime appearance of many people praying and a mass. Of course, it is essential to be quiet and polite.

#VietnamTravel #LaoCaiMartyrsMemorial Located in the center of Lao Cai overlooking the Red River, the Lao Cai Martyrs Memorial was built to commemorate the Lao Cai people who fought and sacrificed their lives for the independence and protection of the country. The monument towers up like arrowheads and stands tall and beautiful, and several statues add to the beauty of this place. When you look down from near the tower, you can see the city of Lao Cai and the Red River, and the walls of this memorial are painted with murals symbolizing this place, so although it is a memorial, it feels more like a park, so if you are walking around Lao Cai city, visit it.

#VietnamTravel #MauSaTang The Lao Cai Mother Temple, a temple that is even more meaningful because it is located right next to the border, is a small and cozy temple that overlooks the Red River and Nam Ti River on the Vietnamese border and has the Chinese border gate and immigration office right in front of it. Many tourists take pictures in front of the 103 stone monument while looking at the border and rest under the large tree in the temple. You can also see the main purpose of the temple, praying for the various wishes of many people to come true. The temple is made of red tiles and blue walls, so it is small but pretty, making it a good place to visit.

#VietnamTravel #MauSaTemple MauSaTemple, called the Mother's Temple of Lao Cai City, was built 300 years ago by the citizens of Lao Cai. Since this temple is located right next to the trade route between Vietnam and China, it is also famous for the 103 stone monuments indicating the border, and the main gate for passing through the immigration office is visible right next to it. And the Red River and Nam Ta River flow between the border, so a cool river breeze blows, and right next to the temple is a railroad where freight trains between China and Vietnam still run. It is said that Kim Jong-un crossed this railroad during the Hanoi Summit.. If you come to Lao Cai, be sure to feel the border here at least once.

Most tourists usually take a sleeping bus directly to Sapa, so they rarely visit Lao Cai. There doesn't seem to be much to do here either. However, for those traveling by train, Lao Cai is an inevitable gateway. Since you're already here, whether you're visiting from Sapa or stopping by because of the train, it's a rule to take a look at the other side of China. Next to the border immigration office, there is a border marker pointing towards the Chinese immigration office on the other side, which is a popular photo spot for many tourists.

#vietnamtrip #village #sapa #valley #spring #travel #thingstodo #daytrip Nestled deep in Sapa’s Muong Hoa Valley, Ta Van Village offers an unforgettable trekking experience through lush rice terraces, misty mountains, and peaceful streams. As I walked along the winding dirt paths, I was greeted by the warm smiles of the Dzay and H’mong ethnic communities, who still preserve their traditional way of life. The crisp mountain air and breathtaking valley views made every step worth it. If you’re looking for an authentic escape into Vietnam’s rural beauty, Ta Van is the perfect trek to soak in Sapa’s tranquility and culture!

#January travel support event #Sapa travel Feel China for a moment at the Lao Cai and Hekou border There is immigration, a hotel, shops, and street vendors, so it is a place where you can take a quick look around. There is a temple behind the immigration office, and anyone can enter. Be sure to take a picture at the border marker where locals take a mandatory certification photo.

#January travel support event #Sapa travel If you go from Sapa to Lao Cai, you can see the border of Yunnan Province, China. I know there is a bus that goes here from downtown Sapa. It's like a very small village bus. Anyway, Hekou and Lao Cai are bordered by a river. You can take pictures as if you were in China without crossing the border.

#vietnamtrip Review of Lào Cai City Lào Cai City, the capital of Lào Cai Province in northern Vietnam, is a vibrant destination that serves as the gateway to many iconic attractions in the region. Located near the border with China, it offers a unique blend of cultural diversity, natural beauty, and historical significance. One of the city’s most notable features is its strategic location along the Red River, which separates Vietnam from China. The Lao Cai International Border Gate is a key point of trade and tourism, and visitors often cross to explore Hekou, the neighboring Chinese town. The bustling border market is a highlight, where you can find a wide range of goods and experience the lively atmosphere of cross-border commerce. Lào Cai is also rich in cultural diversity, being home to many ethnic minorities, including the H’mong, Dao, and Tay communities. The city itself reflects this diversity in its vibrant local markets and festivals, where traditional handicrafts, textiles, and foods are abundant. Visitors can explore the Coc Leu Market, a hub for local goods, or savor regional dishes like “thắng cố” and fresh river fish. Beyond the city, Lào Cai serves as a base for exploring nearby attractions. Most visitors use it as a stepping stone to the famous mountain town of Sapa, known for its terraced rice fields and cooler climate. Other nearby spots include Mount Fansipan, the “Roof of Indochina,” and the breathtaking Bac Ha Market, held weekly in the countryside. While Lào Cai City itself may not have as many direct tourist attractions, its convenient location, cultural richness, and role as a transport hub make it an essential stop for travelers heading deeper into northern Vietnam. It’s a city that balances modernity with tradition, offering a genuine glimpse into Vietnam’s diverse culture and landscapes.

You can try a very scenic motorbike drive to China-Vietnam border from Sapa. it is really nice atmosphere to see the two culture blending there. the food is also nice to try there and fruits from China is easily available by the border. the road is really good and safe, just be careful when you drive because over speed limit. what an experience. #travel #thingstodo #citydaytours #myitinerary #china #localfood

Old markets in Vietnam🌆, a fascinating place that blends history and modernity, are a must-visit for every traveler to explore traditional Vietnamese culture and enjoy authentic cuisine.🍜 When you step into the old market, you will be attracted by the buildings full of French colonial style. They tell stories of the past and also show the unique historical background of the city.🏛️ Strolling on these streets, it seems to travel back to the last century, and each building exudes a strong historical atmosphere. The old market is not only a witness to history, but also a microcosm of modern life. It brings together a variety of shops, cafes and snack stalls, providing tourists with a rich shopping and food experience.☕️ Whether you are looking for handicrafts, tasting authentic Vietnamese coffee, or trying authentic Vietnamese snacks, the old market can meet your needs. When night falls, the old market becomes more lively. The lights illuminate the entire block, street performers start to perform, music floats in the air, and people enjoy the coolness of the night and the joyful atmosphere here.🎤 At this time, the old market is full of vitality and passion, and it is an excellent place to experience Vietnamese nightlife. In short, the old market in Vietnam is a vibrant place where history and modernity are perfectly combined. Whether you are a history lover, a food explorer or a traveler looking for a unique cultural experience, the old market can bring you unforgettable memories.🌟 Come and explore this charming land by yourself, and let the old market in Vietnam become a beautiful memory in your journey!

#LaoCai #HàKhòuborder

#OverseasFlightEvent I'll introduce you to a rest area on the Vietnamese highway ~. Of course, it's not as big as a rest area in our country, but it's got a certain scale. There are shops, places selling food, places selling local specialties, etc... But the decisive difference is that the restrooms are paid. It's about 3,000 dong or 200 won. I've used it too. It's kept clean. This was also a refreshing experience ~

#OverseasFlightEvent I didn't know much about Sapa from Hanoi because it was night. This time, I took a picture of the bus from Sapa back to Hanoi... I heard there are new cabin-type sleeping buses these days. I was going to take that bus at first, but as I was moving, I thought I'd just sleep ~. So I took a regular sleeping bus. I think this bus is good too.

Chapa Express is the ideal choice for traveling from Hanoi to Sapa, offering comfortable and well-appointed cabins for a restful journey. With attentive service and modern amenities, it ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip through the stunning landscapes of northern Vietnam. It provides us with water, snacks and dental kit as well as bananas for our overnight train journey. Highly recommended to book Chapa Express for an overnight train experience 😍 from Lao Cai, it takes about an hour bus ride to Sapa which cost around 55k VND #familytrips2024 #vietnamtrip

#Songkran2024Travel #lao cai #China-Vietnam border Before reaching Sapa, let's go off the beaten path a bit to see the border between Vietnam and China. This is a checkpoint open for both countries to pass through. The scenery of the river and the green forest, the people are bustling, the trade of various products, the vendors call for customers to come and see the products, the atmosphere is fun. Nearby is the boundary marker of Vietnam and a shrine designed in a contemporary style, simple and mixed with beautiful patterns. The small details make the shrine unique. 📌Lao Cai, Vietnam 🕰Every day 6:00-22:00 hrs. 💰Free