Travelling from Vienna to Budapest by rail takes roughly 2h 30m on Railjet, a straightforward alternative to flying between the two cities.
Where to stay
How long is the train from Vienna to Budapest?
The fastest trains take around 2h 30m, with several departures a day. Check the live schedule for your date.
Which trains run from Vienna to Budapest?
The route is run by Railjet. Comparing the day's departures in one search finds the best time and fare.
Worth knowing
These two capitals were once the twin seats of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and the rail line connecting them dates back to the 19th century — long before either city had a metro system. Today's Railjet service is a modern train on a genuinely historic corridor.
Vienna to Budapest train price (2026)
Advance fares start from around €20-35, rising as the date approaches.
| Operator | From | Journey time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Railjet | €20-35 | 2h 30m | Several daily |
Prices are indicative advance fares. Check live availability for your exact date.
How to get the best fare
- Buy ahead of time. Prices climb as the departure date gets closer, sometimes by a large margin.
- Shift your departure slightly. Leaving an hour earlier or later than peak times often drops the fare noticeably.
- Don't rule out first class on longer routes — the price gap can be smaller than expected.
- Compare all departures side by side rather than booking the first result you see.
Frequently asked questions
What's the journey time between Vienna and Budapest?
Expect around 2h 30m on the fastest Vienna–Budapest train. Several trains run each day, so check the live timetable to pick your slot.
What's a typical fare on the Vienna to Budapest train?
Fares typically start near €20-35 when booked in advance and climb closer to departure, so an early booking is the main way to keep the cost down.
Who operates trains between Vienna and Budapest?
Railjet runs this route. Looking at the full day's departures in one search makes it easier to match a good time with a good price.
Can you go from Vienna to Budapest without changing trains?
Railjet services connect Vienna and Budapest — the live schedule for your specific date will show whether it's direct or involves a change.
How far ahead should I book Vienna to Budapest tickets?
The lowest fares tend to appear weeks or months before departure and go quickly, so booking early — and avoiding peak days — usually pays off.
Ready to go? Check live Vienna → Budapest times and fares and book your seat — secure checkout, mobile tickets, every operator in one search.
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