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Krakow to Budapest from $26: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Krakow, Poland
to
Budapest, Hungary

How to Get from Krakow to Budapest: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$26 by trainBest price
294.1 kmDistance
3h 52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Krakow to Budapest with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  35m
Estimated price
$30-50
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
8h  33m
Estimated price
$26-36
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 294.1 km
Duration: 3h 52m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Eurobusways
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
7h  14m
Estimated price
$61-88
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  48m
Estimated price
$65-100
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  52m
Estimated price
$76-278

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $25 $21 $21 $18 $21 $19 $27
Fly $146 $145 $147 $145 $146 $154 $156
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Krakow to Budapest

Traveling between Krakow and Budapest offers a fascinating contrast: Krakow's rich medieval ambiance and vibrant cultural scene meet Budapest's stunning architecture and lively thermal baths.

Best Neighbourhoods in Budapest

Budapest is known for its diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct vibes and attractions.

District VII (Erzsébetváros)
• Famous for its ruin bars and nightlife
• Home to historic synagogues and art galleries
District V (Belváros-Lipótváros)
• Features Parliament and Chain Bridge
• Bustling area with cafes and shops
District I (Buda Castle District)
• Offers stunning views of the city
• Rich in history with museums and castles

Best Times To Visit Budapest's Attractions

Timing your visits in Budapest can transform your experience at major landmarks and attractions.

Buda Castle
Early mornings or late afternoons offer fewer tourists and stunning light.
Hungarian Parliament Building
Visit on weekdays for a quieter atmosphere and to explore inside.
Thermal Baths
Weekday mornings are ideal for a relaxed soak without crowds.

Budapest Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Budapest experiences a continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making spring and early fall the best times to visit for pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Your travel experience can significantly vary depending on the season, as summer brings vibrant outdoor events while winter offers a magical, festive atmosphere.

Dining Recommendation in Budapest

Try the delicious goulash at Slow Foodiez, where the robust flavors of paprika and tender meat bring a taste of Hungary that contrasts sharply with Krakow's lighter, pierogi-focused cuisine. The lively atmosphere and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients create a memorable dining experience that captures the spirit of Budapest's culinary scene.

Krakow - Budapest operators

Explore transport companies operating between Krakow and Budapest, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Kraków, Dworzec Autobusowy MDA to Budapest Mexikói út

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
$30-50
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
703 200 200
Website
https://www.intercity.pl/en/

Train from Krakow Glowny to Budapest-Kelenfoeld via Wien Hbf

Average Duration
8h 33m
Estimated price
$26-40
Contact phone
+420 222 222 221
Website
https://regiojet.com/

Train from Wien Hbf to Budapest-Kelenfoeld

Average Duration
2h 31m
Estimated price
$11-40
Contact phone
+43 (0)5 1717
Website
http://fahrplan.oebb.at/bin/query.exe/en?revia=yes&existOptimizePrice=1&country=overseas&initialAvail=ON&S={fromName}&Z={toName}&start=1

Train from Wien Hbf to Budapest-Kelenfoeld

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$35-55
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.austrian.com

Plane from Krakow (KRK) to Budapest (BUD) via Vienna

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$130-470
Website
https://www.ryanair.com

Plane from Krakow (KRK) to Budapest (BUD) via Berlin Brandenburg

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$45-360
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+36 70 282 1827
Website
https://www.eurobusways.com

Other from Zakopane to Budapest

Average Duration
4h 35m
Estimated price
$55-80

Krakow to Budapest: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Krakow and Budapest offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Kraków to Budapest, spanning a distance of 392.7 km. 💰 Discover budget-friendly travel options with car prices ranging from €60 to €92, providing the flexibility to explore at your own pace. 🌆 Arrive in Budapest after approximately 5 hours and 48 minutes of driving, ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture, historical landmarks, and culinary delights this dynamic city has to offer.
Average price
€60 - €92
🚆 Despite there not being a direct train from Kraków to Budapest, travelers can still make the journey in approximately 8 hours and 33 minutes with transfers in Wien Hbf. The train services are operated by PKP Intercity and RegioJet. 🚆 The route options from Kraków to Budapest vary in terms of travel time and distance, with some routes having transfers along the way. Prices for the train tickets range from €24 to €33, offering travelers flexibility in choosing the most suitable option for their journey.
Departure Point
Krakow Glowny station
Arrival Point
Budapest-Kelenfoeld station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: The main train operator for the Krakow to Budapest route is PKP Intercity. They offer a range of catering services, including a dining car where you can purchase meals and beverages. Additionally, they provide a snack trolley service that comes through the carriages, offering light snacks and drinks. Make sure to bring cash or a card, as payment methods may vary.
• Seating Options: The PKP Intercity trains provide several seating options: 1st Class, 2nd Class (Economy), and Business Class. 1st Class features more spacious seating and quieter compartments. In contrast, 2nd Class is well-equipped for travelers looking for comfort on a budget, typically offering reclining seats and power outlets. Business Class is available on select services and offers enhanced comfort, dining service, and amenities.
• Arrival Station Tip: In Budapest, you will arrive at Keleti Railway Station (Budapest Keleti). This historic station is well-equipped with facilities, including storage lockers for luggage. You can leave your luggage at the station, allowing you to explore the city unencumbered. Restrooms are readily available, but be aware that showers are not available at this station.
🛫 Traveling from Krakow to Budapest by plane is a convenient option despite the lack of direct flights. The quickest route typically includes one stopover and takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes. 🌍 Passengers have the choice of airlines such as Air Dolomiti, Austrian Airlines, Ryanair, and a couple of others for their journey. With various carriers serving this route, travelers can find reasonably priced flights ranging from €70 to €256. ✈️ In total, the flight time from Krakow to Budapest is approximately 3 hours and 52 minutes.
Departure Point
Krakow Airport
Arrival Point
Budapest Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 10m and has one stopover
🚌 Travel from Krakow to Budapest by bus is convenient and comfortable. The direct bus operated by FlixBus departs four times a day and takes approximately 6 hours and 35 minutes. 🎫 Ticket prices for the bus between Budapest and Krakow range from €28 to €46, making it an affordable option for those looking to travel between these two beautiful European cities.
Departure Point
Kraków, Dworzec Autobusowy MDA station
Arrival Point
Budapest Mexikói út station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Krakow to Budapest.

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The distance between Krakow and Budapest is approximately 294.5 km by air and 392.0 km by road. To travel from Krakow to Budapest, it takes about 9 hours 5 minutes by train, 7 hours 5 minutes by bus and shuttle, and 6 hours 9 minutes by plane. The return journey from Budapest to Krakow takes around 5 hours 48 minutes by car and 6 hours 10 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Krakow to Budapest is by train, with prices ranging from €17 to €37. Although it takes 9 hours and 5 minutes, it is a more affordable alternative. However, if time is a priority, the quickest way to travel is by car, which takes approximately 5 hours and 48 minutes.
The prices for traveling from Krakow to Budapest vary depending on the mode of transportation. For train travel, prices range from €17 to €36. If you choose to travel by bus, prices range from €28 to €42.
The most convenient way to travel from Krakow to Budapest without using public transportation is by driving. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 392.7 km and it takes around 5 hours and 48 minutes to reach Budapest from Krakow by car. The prices for car rental vary, ranging from €60 to €92, depending on the type of vehicle and rental company.
To travel from Krakow to Budapest without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes around 6 hours and 10 minutes and costs between €28 and €42. Another option is to take a train, which takes 9 hours and 5 minutes and costs between €17 and €37. Alternatively, you can fly, which takes approximately 6 hours and 9 minutes and costs between €46 and €231.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Krakow and Budapest. The bus service operated by FlixBus departs from Kraków Dworzec Autobusowy MDA and arrives at Budapest Mexikói út. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes. There is also a train service available, but it requires a transfer in Bohumin and the total travel time is around 9 hours and 5 minutes.
The flight between Krakow and Budapest typically takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes, with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available between the two cities. The cost of a flight can vary, with prices ranging from €50 to €231.
There are numerous options for accommodations near Budapest. With over 1246 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a range of options to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in Budapest start at €26 per night.

Trips to Budapest