Budapest to Ljubljana by Train
There's no fast direct train linking Hungary's capital to Slovenia's — the practical route runs through Zagreb, with a change of country and operator along the way.
The journey, stop by stop
From Budapest-Keleti, MÁV-START trains head southwest to Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor in Croatia, where you change onto a Slovenian Railways (SŽ) service for the final leg to Ljubljana.
How long does it take?
The trip takes around 8h - 9h. This is a long connection with a transfer in Zagreb — some travelers prefer splitting the trip with an overnight stop, or comparing it against a direct bus for this specific leg. Check the live schedule for your date.
Who runs the route?
The route is covered by MÁV-START (Hungary) to Zagreb, then Slovenske železnice (SŽ) for the Zagreb–Ljubljana leg. Reservations are recommended, especially in summer.
How to get the best fare
- Book early. Advance fares are usually cheaper than buying on the day.
- Travel off-peak. Mid-morning departures tend to be quieter.
- Compare in one place to see every departure at a glance.
Ready to go? Check live Budapest → Ljubljana times and fares and book your seat — secure checkout, mobile tickets, every operator in one search.
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