Pondering a trip from Vienna to Budapest by train? This guide will tell you everything you need to know to make a Vienna to Budapest train journey a snap!

Overview of train operators

Railjet

Railjet is a high-speed train operator run by Austrian national transit authority ÖBB. It offers a high-speed train from Vienna to Budapest in comfort and style, making the journey in as little as 2 hours and 20 minutes — the fastest available. It also offers the most services along this route, as well as the only Business Class along this route.

Route

Railjet offers service from Vienna Hauptbahnhof to Budapest Keleti, with a total Vienna to Budapest train time of about 2 hours 30 minutes. It stops in several other Hungarian cities, including Hegyeshalom, Mosonmagyaróvár Mosonmagyaróvár, Győr and Budapest Kelenföld.

Train features

Railjet trains are modern, comfortable and full of perks. Want ample space, comfy seats, refreshments and onboard WiFi and charging outlets? Railjet has you covered there too.

Benefits

Railjet offers:

  • The most daily services from Vienna to Budapest

  • The shortest time to destination

  • A Business Class option

  • Beautiful modern trains

EuroCity

EuroCity trains offer a budget-friendly option for passengers who want cheap train tickets from Vienna to Budapest train journeys. Their high-speed trains are still comfortable, with the basic amenities modern travellers expect.

Route

EuroCity offers service from Vienna Hauptbahnhof to Budapest Keleti, with a total Vienna to Budapest train time ranging between 2 hours 45 minutes and 3 hours. It stops in several other Hungarian cities, including Hegyeshalom, Mosonmagyaróvár, Győr, Tatabánya and Budapest Kelenföld.

Train features

EuroCity stands out by offering spacious, comfortable seating and big windows — the better for watching the Hungarian and Austrian countryside pass lazily by.

Benefits

EuroCity offers:

  • Large windows

  • Spacious, comfortable seats

  • Only marginally longer travel time than Railjet

  • A budget-friendly alternative to Railjet

Nightjet

Since 2016, Nightjet has offered a convenient option for the train ride from Vienna to Budapest — overnight. These medium-speed trains offer a variety of service classes, from seats to “Couchette” bunks to private sleeper cars.

Route

NightJet trains operate between Vienna Hauptbahnhof and Budapest Keleti, with Hungarian stops at Győr, Tatabánya and Budapest Kelenföld. This slower train takes 5-6 hours to complete the journey.

Train features

The most notable feature of a NightJet train is its distinct classes of service. You can choose from reclining seats, “Couchette” bunk cars with multiple bunks and private sleeper rooms with only one bed.

Frequency of services

One NightJet train departs from Vienna Hauptbahnhof for Budapest Keleti every night.

Benefits

Railjet offers:

  • Efficient use of time

  • One fewer hotel stay

  • Train noise rocks you to sleep

  • Enough time to sleep due to the 5-6 hour train ride

Schedule details

Quickest journey time

Railjet offers the fastest Vienna to Budapest train journey, with a station-to-station time of approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Total distance

The Vienna to Budapest train route covers approximately 216 kilometres of the Austro-Hungarian countryside.

Earliest and latest departure times

The earliest train from Vienna to Budapest departs Vienna Hauptbahnhof on weekdays at roughly 06:40. The latest train from Vienna to Budapest departs Vienna Hauptbahnhof on weekdays at roughly 21:40. The earliest weekend train from Vienna to Budapest departs Vienna Hauptbahnhof at roughly 06:40. The latest weekend train from Vienna to Budapest departs Vienna Hauptbahnhof at roughly 21:40.

Average number of daily trains

Approximately 24 trains from Vienna Hauptbahnhof to Budapest Keleti Station depart every day across three operators — Railjet, EuroCity and Nightjet. Railjet offers the most daily trains, while Nightjet operates only one service per night.

Ticket information

Ticket prices

You’ve probably noticed how the price of train tickets from Vienna to Budapest seem to change all the time. That’s due to supply and demand — popularity of the route, short notice vs. long notice, popularity of the itinerary, the season, etc. This can make it hard to predict the Vienna to Budapest train cost. However, Rail Europe offers live estimates of European train routes. Here are our current estimates of the Vienna to Budapest train price:

  • Cheapest ticket on the route: AU$16.06

  • Average cost of a ticket on this route if you book 30 days in advance: AU$21

  • Average cost of a ticket on this route if you book 7 days in advance: AU$28

Importance of booking in advance

Waiting to book or buying tickets at the station may seem like an attractive option for the flexibility and spontaneity. However, there are many reasons to book in advance. Train fare from Vienna to Budapest tends to be lower 7 days in advance and even lower 30 days in advance. You will also have more choices in terms of departure times, service class and seat selection.

Point-to-point tickets versus train passes

Choosing between point-to-point tickets and train passes is a big decision. This choice depends on your travel style and budget.

Point-to-point tickets are exactly what they sound like. You buy a ticket for your train from Vienna to Budapest. This option is usually best for travelers on a tight schedule who are only taking a few train trips. The cost of a train from Vienna to Budapest is also lower than the price of a similar pass.

Train passes give you the freedom to hop on and off trains all over Europe for a certain amount of time. Train passes available for travellers from Vienna to Budapest include the Eurail or Interrail Global and One Country Passes. These passes allow you to travel anywhere extensively in one country or throughout Europe during a set number of travel days over a specified time period. Within that time period and up to the specified number of travel days, you can jump on and off any national carrier you want. NOTE: Eurail is for non-EU citizens; Interrail is similar, but for EU citizens.

Train stations served

Vienna Hauptbahnhof

Forget the Alps; the real Viennese showstopper is Hauptbahnhof, a trailblazing rail hub that redefines European travel with its futuristic curb appeal. Located south of the city center, Vienna Haupbahnhof seamlessly connects local, regional and international train lines making it easy to reach. In operation since 2014, this major hub of European transit serves a whopping 40-45 million passengers every year.

​​Facilities and services

  • Ticket counters

  • Self-service ticket machines

  • Luggage storage and lockers

  • Shops and restaurants

  • Supermarket

  • ATMs

  • Currency exchange

  • Wi-Fi access

  • Waiting areas

  • Lounges (ÖBB Lounge)

  • Restrooms

  • Bike parking

  • Car rental services

  • Taxi stands

  • Public transport connections (trams, buses, U-Bahn)

  • Accessibility services (elevators, ramps)

  • Information desk

Budapest Keleti

Budapest Keleti, often referred to as Budapest East Station, embodies both historical grandeur and modern transportation. This station has got it all – a rich history and sleek modern touches that work surprisingly well together. With its beautifully restored façade and intricate architectural details, stepping off the train in Budapest Keleti feels like travelling back in time. In operation since 1884, today Budapest Keleti serves 20-25 million passengers annually.

​​Facilities and services

  • Ticket counters

  • Self-service ticket machines

  • Luggage storage and lockers

  • Shops and kiosks

  • Cafes and restaurants

  • ATMs

  • Currency exchange

  • Wi-Fi access

  • Waiting areas

  • Restrooms

  • Accessibility services (elevators, ramps)

  • Information desk

  • Public transport connections (metro, buses, trams)

  • Taxi stands

  • Parking facilities

Travelling with Railjet, NightJet and EuroCity

Steps for security and boarding

Vienna Hauptbahnhof is a busy train station. It's important to be prepared when you depart for Budapest. This way, you can relax and enjoy the journey.

Most trains from Vienna to Budapest don't have security checks like at airports. You will need to show your passport and ticket on the train, though.

Before you board the Vienna to Budapest train, find the right platform. Platform information is usually on digital displays throughout the station and on your ticket. Once you find the platform, verify it matches your train number. Then you are all set to board!

Tips for navigating the station and boarding

Vienna Hauptbahnhof is a big, modern train station. Although it might feel overwhelming at first, don't worry. It's simple to find your way around. First, check the departure boards. They'll show your train number, departure time and platform. You'll see these boards all over the station. They're easy to spot.

You'll find your platform number on your ticket too. The platforms are clearly marked. Just follow the signs. It's a good idea to find your platform at least 15 minutes before your train leaves. You'll want to have time to find your train car. This is especially true if you have a lot of luggage.

Once you're on the right platform, look for your train car number. This number is usually on the outside of the train. When your train arrives, have your ticket ready. The conductor will need to see it.

The train classes and services class

Railjet

Railjet offers three different classes of service for travel: Second, First and Business Class.

Second Class

Second class on the train is a great option. Sleek, reliable and convenient - this ride checks all the right boxes. Most seats are arranged in an open-coach style, kind of like an airplane. You'll find power outlets to keep your devices charged and large windows to enjoy the view.

First Class

If you want to treat yourself to something a little nicer, first class might be a good option. You'll find larger seats, more legroom and it's generally quieter than second class. As a special hello, we'll send over a curated bundle featuring all the essentials: tasty bites, fantastic reads and a pinch of excitement to get you started. Comfort is just the beginning - it's about having things easy too. First class passengers have access to the Railjet Business Lounge in Vienna, which offers complimentary drinks and snacks.

Business Class

For those who want the ultimate experience, business class on the Railjet train from Vienna to Budapest is tough to beat. You get all the perks of first class but with even more space and privacy. Seats are arranged in a 1-1 configuration, meaning more personal space. Plus, you get a welcome gift that's even better than first class. Think high-quality snacks and drinks. Landing in style, business class travel gets you to your destination feeling revitalized and more than ready to take on the adventure ahead.

EuroCity

EuroCity offers two different classes of service for travel: Second and First Class.

Second Class

Second class on the EuroCity train is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. You'll find comfortable seats and large windows that let you soak in the passing scenery. If saving some cash is your top priority, this class is a great fit - just be prepared to share the experience with a crowd.

First Class

Looking for an upgrade? First class is the way to go. Picture this: spacious seats with more legroom, often arranged in a two-by-one configuration. A thinner crowd means you can finally relax, feel more at home and savor the silence. You'll also find power outlets for your devices and sometimes even complimentary wifi. Allowing yourself to surrender to the gentle pace, the Vienna-to-Budapest journey becomes an exercise in relaxation.

NightJet

EuroCity offers various options for class of travel.

Seat

If you want a budget-friendly choice and don't mind sitting up for a bit, then the standard class seat is great. It's a comfortable seat that lets you watch the scenery go by. This is also a good option if your final destination is one of the other Hungarian stops along the way and you don’t intend to sleep.

Couchette

Couchettes are like bunk beds in a shared compartment, so it's nice to travel with friends or family. You get your own little space with a blanket and pillow. For those who want the best comfort and privacy, a private sleeper is the way to go. These compartments come with real beds and some even have their own toilets and showers.

Sleeper

If you need privacy and comfort, a private sleeper car with a bed is the way to go. Close the doors, relax and let the sound of the train lull you to sleep. Emerge refreshed and ready to make the most of Budapest!

Travel documentation and customs requirements

Necessary travel documents

The Schengen Region is unique in that sovereign nations agree to a “borderless” travel experience. Travel between any two Schengen countries does not require an immigration check. Since both Austria and Hungary fall within the Schengen region, traveling from Vienna to Budapest is a piece of cake. All you need is your train ticket and a photo ID. Bring your passport, but don’t worry about an extra immigration check. On the downside, you won’t get an extra stamp. Oh well.

Customs process

Another perk of the Schengen Region “borderless” travel experience is that there is no customs declaration or checkpoint. Your luggage may be screened or checked for security purposes and rules apply to the transport of alcohol, tobacco, large amounts of currency and other commodities; other than that, no customs requirements apply.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a direct train from Vienna to Budapest?

Yes, the majority of the trains along this line run direct.

Is there a direct train from Vienna to Budapest airport?

No, there is no direct train from Vienna to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD). You will need to transit to the airport using ground transportation — taxi, rideshare, bus, or local light rail.

Which train station in Vienna goes to Budapest?

High speed trains from Vienna to Budapest depart from Vienna Hauptbahnhof.

How long is the train journey from Vienna to Budapest?

The train duration from Vienna to Budapest depends on the operator. Railjet is the fastest, at 2 hours and 20 minutes. Next is Eurocity, at between 2 hours 45 minutes and 3 hours. The NightJet overnight train from Vienna to Budapest gives you a cozy 5-6 hours of naptime.

How far is Vienna to Budapest by train?

The distance from Vienna to Budapest by train is roughly 216 kilometres of train tracks.

Is there a night train from Vienna to Budapest?

Yes, Railjet operates one nightly sleeper train from Vienna to Budapest.

Can you take a day trip from Vienna to Budapest by train?

At 2 hours and 20 minutes minimum, it can be a little tough to take a day trip from Vienna to Budapest by train. From Fisherman’s Bastion to the many ruin clubs, there’s so much to see in Budapest that you don’t necessarily want to burn five whole hours of that day on train rides. Budapest is worth at least a few days. If you just want to grab a goulash lunch and come back, it’s certainly doable. Another option is to take an early morning high speed train from Vienna to Budapest, spend the day, and then take the Nightjet night train back to Vienna. Or vice versa. Or both ways by Nightjet sleeper train!

Is the train from Vienna to Budapest scenic?

While not the most breathtaking scenery in Europe, the train ride from Vienna to Budapest offers some pleasant scenery for you to observe out the window of your train seat — rolling hills, quaint villages, a glimpse of the Danube River near Győr.