Hanoi and Sapa in Vietnam have many things to offer – it’s likely that if you are visiting one city, you’ll want to visit the other too. But travelling between the 2 destinations means spending hours on the road – either in sleeper buses, overnight trains, taxis, or minivans, so finding a comfortable option is essential to get a good rest and make the best out of your trip.
If you are planning to add both destinations to your Vietnam itinerary, consider booking a ride on the Hanoi to Sapa love bus.
Image credit: Klook
It’s a pink-coloured bus operated by Inter Bus Lines that comes decked out in cute Disney and character themes. You have options for single beds, double beds, or private and cosy cabins, making it a direct yet budget-friendly way to get from Hanoi to Sapa and vice versa in around 6 hours.
The bus starts at Tom’s Cafe in Hanoi and drops passengers directly at Interbus Lines Sapa Office. If you’re going the opposite way, it departs from Interbus Lines Sapa Office and drops passengers at 194 Tran Quang Khai, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
And while its official name isn’t “love bus”, the bubblegum pink exterior, heart-shaped motifs, and mood lighting may or may not have earned this ride its cheeky yet slightly sus nickname.
Image credit: Klook
You have 2 options when it comes to booking the Hanoi to Sapa love bus.
The first is the budget-friendly sleeper bus (from S$8.59/pax) that comes with single or double reclining beds, a free bottle of water, a warm blanket, and Wi-Fi access. The soft lighting in the bus makes it comfortable to relax for the long journey.
Image credit: Inter Bus Lines
If you prefer more privacy, opt for the cabin bus (from S$13.35/pax) that offers private double beds in little love cabins with curtains. Other than the free water and blankets, each cabin also comes with USB charging ports, free WiFi, and entertainment screens. The romantic atmosphere makes it perfect for a good night’s rest with your significant other.
But here’s something to note: the sleeper bus beds measure 180cm x 55cm for single beds and 180cm x 110cm for double beds, while the cabins on the cabin bus measure 180cm x 110cm. So if you’re on the taller side, be prepared for a slightly bent-knee situation rather than a full starfish stretch.
According to travellers who have booked the love bus through Klook, the details will be sent to you via WhatsApp the day before. Before boarding, footwear has to be removed and placed in the plastic bags provided.
Image credit: Long via Klook
A crate of slippers is provided as a replacement, which you’ll be able to wear on the bus.
There are a few departure times to choose from and 2 stops along the way to relieve yourselves or grab a bite. The toilet at these stops charges VND3,000/pax (~S$0.15). Take note that food is not allowed on the bus, so be sure to finish your food before reboarding. The bus will also stop to pick up other passengers along the way.
Not to worry if you have mobility concerns – staff are on hand to assist passengers who require assistance. You could also request a lower bunk if you are physically unable to access the upper bunk.
Each passenger is allowed to bring 1 standard luggage and 1 handbag on board, so plan your shopping haul wisely unless you’re prepared to play luggage Tetris.
Image credit: Klook
Along the way, you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful mountain views if you’re awake and travelling when there’s still daylight outside.
Screenshot from: TikTok
It’s not what it sounds like – the love bus isn’t like a love hotel. We can’t find anything that suggests making love on the love bus is allowed.
Screenshot from: TikTok
Besides, the cabins are narrow, designed for 1 to 2 people to sleep, and only separated by curtains, making such activities likely to disturb others. It’s better to use the private cabin for a comfortable, romantic, and restful night’s sleep to enjoy your trip to Hanoi or Sapa, rather than for other activities, as some people wonder.
Image credit: Klook
No matter whether you’re travelling solo, with a group, or with a partner, the love bus is an affordable and convenient option to travel between Hanoi and Sapa.
More things to do in Vietnam:
Cover image adapted from: Inter Bus Lines
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