1map logoGo to main page

Budapest, Budapest to Bucharest, Bucharest region from $60: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Budapest, Hungary
to
Bucharest, Romania

How to Get from Budapest to Bucharest: 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.

$60 by busBest price
399 milesDistance
9h 11m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Budapest to Bucharest 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
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
17h  24m
Estimated price
$60-80
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 399 miles
Duration: 9h 11m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
9h  34m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Romanian Railways (CFR)
Train
Average Duration
16h  37m
Estimated price
$74-82
Company
Romanian Railways (CFR)
Train
Average Duration
17h  37m
Estimated price
$77-87
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
9h  11m
Estimated price
$140-210

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $32 $27 $30 $28 $31 $33 $30
Fly $49 $34 $40 $32 $55 $42 $61
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Budapest to Bucharest

Traveling from Budapest to Bucharest offers you a fascinating comparison between Hungary's historic charm and Romania's vibrant culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Bucharest

Bucharest is a city rich in diverse neighborhoods, each with its charm.

Old Town
• Lively atmosphere with vibrant nightlife.
• Historic architecture and cultural landmarks.
Cotroceni
• Elegant homes and green parks.
• Close proximity to the National Museum of Arts.
Tineretului
• Popular for its spacious parks and lakes.
• Family-friendly with local markets and cafes.

Best Times To Visit Bucharest's Attractions

Knowing the best times to visit Bucharest's attractions can enhance your experience.

Palace of the Parliament
Early mornings during weekdays offer fewer tourists and a more serene atmosphere.
Therme București
Visiting on weekdays, especially early afternoon, avoids weekend crowds and long waits.
The Village Museum
Midweek mornings provide a quieter setting to explore the exhibits and enjoy nature.

Bucharest Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Bucharest experiences a temperate-continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and early fall the most pleasant times to visit. Weather conditions can significantly impact your travel plans, so dressing appropriately for the season enhances your overall experience.

Dining in Bucharest: A Culinary Contrast

Try the traditional Romanian dish of sarmale—cabbage rolls filled with seasoned meat and rice—at Caru' cu Bere, a historic restaurant that blends Victorian charm with lively local culture. Unlike Budapest's focus on hearty stews, Bucharest's dining scene emphasizes fresh, local ingredients and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that invites you to savor each bite.

Budapest - Bucharest operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+40 745 766 766
Website
maxibustravel.ro

Bus from Budapest to Bucharest

Average Duration
8h 8m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
0040263701919
Website
latinoexpres.ro

Bus from Budapest to Bucharest

Average Duration
17h 8m
Estimated price
$55-80
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
0219521
Website
https://www.cfrcalatori.ro/en/

Train from Budapest-Keleti to Bucuresti Nord

Average Duration
16h 21m
Estimated price
$70-85

Train from Budapest-Kelenfoeld to Bucuresti Nord

Average Duration
16h 2m
Estimated price
$75-85
Plane Show flights
Website
tarom.ro

Plane from Budapest (BUD) to Bucharest Otopeni (OTP)

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$130-450
Website
ryanair.com

Plane from Budapest (BUD) to Bucharest Otopeni (OTP)

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$95-350
Website
airserbia.com

Plane from Budapest (BUD) to Bucharest Otopeni (OTP)

Average Duration
4h 25m
Estimated price
$80-250

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

Traveling between Budapest and Bucharest 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 Budapest to Bucharest, covering a distance of 516 miles. The journey takes around 9 hours and 11 minutes of driving time. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of traveling by car, with prices ranging between €129 to €194 for the trip from Budapest to Bucharest.
Average price
€129 - €194
🚂 **Overview**: Traveling from Budapest to Bucharest by train is a scenic journey with a total travel time of approximately 16 hours and 37 minutes, including transfers. While there is no direct train, passengers can enjoy the beauty of the landscapes along the route. 🎫 **Ticket Prices and Options**: The ticket prices for the Budapest to Bucharest train vary between €68 and €76. Travelers have different route options to choose from with various transfers and train services offered by agencies such as Romanian Railways and MÁV-START Zrt. 🗺️ **Route Options**: Passengers can select from multiple route options, each with its own duration and transfers, ranging from about 15 to 21 hours of travel time. Whether opting for a direct night train or enjoying stops in cities like Arad or Brașov, the journey from Budapest to Bucharest by train offers a unique way to explore the region.
Departure Point
Budapest-Keleti station
Arrival Point
Bucuresti Nord station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train trip from Budapest to Bucharest vary by operator. The most common operators, such as CFR Calatori and Hungarian Railways (MAV), typically offer a dining car service where you can find snacks, beverages, and light meals. Make sure to check for any specific catering options before your departure, as these can differ between trains and might not operate on all services.
• The main seating options available on this route include First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class typically provides more spacious seating, complimentary snacks, and a quieter atmosphere. Business Class may offer additional amenities like power outlets and better views, while Economy is more budget-friendly but still comfortable. Ensure you book early to secure your preferred seating as these classes can fill up quickly during peak travel times.
• For your journey, the main operators are CFR Calatori (cfrcalatori.ro) and Hungarian Railways (MAV) (mavcsoport.hu). Be sure to check their websites for the most up-to-date train schedules and booking options. For local transport in Bucharest, the website (metroul.ro) will provide information on metro services, and (stbsa.ro) is great for bus and tram schedules.
• When you arrive at Bucharest's Gara de Nord, be prepared for a busy station. You can leave luggage at the baggage storage located in the station for a small fee, which is convenient for exploring the city without your bags. Restrooms are available, but it’s advisable to check for cleanliness as they can get crowded. Showers are not typically available.
• The fastest way to get from Gara de Nord to the city center is by taking Metro Line 1 from the station. This line will take you directly to key areas such as Piata Universitatii and Piata Romana in about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can also catch buses like the 105 and tram lines 1 and 39 that connect to central locations quickly.
🛫 Traveling from Budapest to Bucharest by plane is a convenient and time-efficient option. The quickest direct flight between the two cities takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Departure Point
Budapest Airport
Arrival Point
Bucharest Otopeni Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Plan your airport arrival at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) at least 2-3 hours before your flight departure, as security lines can be longer for international flights, especially during peak travel times.
• When arriving at Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP), look for the clear signage directing you to passport control and baggage claim, as the airport can be busy; consider downloading the airport's mobile app for real-time updates.
• Expect to pay around 50-70 Romanian Leu (approximately €10-15) for a taxi ride from Henri Coandă Airport to the city center; to ensure a smooth ride, use authorized taxi services like taxiAPP or confirm fares with drivers before starting your journey.
🚌 Traveling from Budapest to Bucharest by bus takes approximately 17 hours and 24 minutes, covering a distance of around 958-985 km. 🎫 The prices for a bus ticket between Budapest and Bucharest typically range from €55 to €74, providing a budget-friendly transportation option for this long journey.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Budapest to Bucharest.

Or choose the category:
The cheapest way to get from Budapest to Bucharest is by taking a train. The train journey takes approximately 15 hours and 55 minutes and costs around €37-€46. This is a cost-effective option for travelers on a budget, and it allows you to enjoy the scenic views as you travel from Hungary to Romania.
The fastest way to travel from Budapest to Bucharest is by taking a combination of train and flight. You can take a train from Budapest to Vienna, Austria, and then catch a flight from Vienna to Bucharest. This option typically takes around 7 hours and 47 minutes. The cost of this route can range from €59 to €283 depending on the specific train and flight options chosen. It's important to note that flight times and prices may vary, so it's always best to check for the most up-to-date information when planning your trip.
The distance between Budapest and Bucharest is approximately 399 miles. The road distance is 516.3 miles, which can take around 9-10 hours by car, depending on the traffic and chosen route. It is important to note that the actual travel time may vary depending on the mode of transportation and specific travel conditions.
The cheapest way to travel from Budapest to Bucharest without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 15 hours and 55 minutes and the ticket prices range from €37 to €46. There are regular train services operating between the two cities, offering a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation. It is advisable to book your tickets in advance to secure the best fares and seating options.
The journey from Budapest to Bucharest takes approximately 5 hours and 39 minutes, including transfers. There are various modes of transportation available for this route, such as trains and flights. Trains are usually the most convenient option, providing a direct connection between the two cities. However, the duration of the trip may vary depending on specific train schedules and any necessary transfers.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Bucharest. With over 1524 hotels to choose from, you'll have a wide range of choices to fit your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels start at €18 per night, making it easy to find affordable options. You can use various online travel platforms or consult with a travel agent to find the most suitable hotel for your stay in Bucharest.
Yes, driving from Budapest to Bucharest is possible. The distance between the two cities is 516 miles, and it takes approximately 9 hours and 11 minutes to drive between them. However, it's important to consider factors like fuel costs, tolls, and potential border crossing requirements before embarking on a road trip. Additionally, it's recommended to check the current road conditions and traffic updates for a smoother journey.
To get to Bucharest from Budapest Airport, you can take a taxi from the airport to Budapest Keleti train station. From there, you can take a direct overnight train to Bucharest, which takes approximately 14 hours. Alternatively, you can take a shuttle bus from the airport to Budapest city center, and then take a domestic flight from Budapest to Bucharest, which takes around 1.5 hours.
There are several airlines that fly between Budapest and Bucharest. Some of the airlines that offer flights on this route include Tarom, Air Serbia, LOT, and two other airlines. These airlines operate flights from Budapest Airport to Bucharest Otopeni Airport. It is recommended to check with each airline for schedules and availability as they may vary.
The fastest way to travel from Budapest to Bucharest is by plane. The quickest flight available is a direct flight from Budapest Airport to Bucharest Otopeni Airport, which takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Airlines such as Tarom, Air Serbia, LOT, and two others offer flights on this route.
The flight from Budapest to Bucharest typically takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes, if it is a direct flight. However, the duration may vary depending on factors such as the airline, weather conditions, and any layovers. It is recommended to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight duration.
Trains from Budapest to Bucharest arrive at Bucuresti Nord station. This is the main train station in Bucharest and is well-connected to other parts of the city. Bucuresti Nord station is located in the city center, making it convenient for travelers to reach their accommodation or continue their journey in Bucharest. It is important to check the timetable and platform information before boarding the train to ensure a smooth arrival at the correct station.
There is no direct train between Budapest and Bucharest. However, there are trains that depart from Budapest-Keleti station and arrive at Piata Unirii station in Bucharest, with a transfer at Gara de Nord station. The journey takes approximately 15 hours and 55 minutes, including the transfer. It is advisable to check the train schedules in advance and plan for the transfer accordingly.
To catch the train from Budapest to Bucharest you will need to go to Budapest-Keleti station. This is the main railway station in Budapest and is well-connected with various train routes. It is advisable to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before the departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process. Make sure to check the train schedule in advance and purchase your tickets either online or at the station.
The cost of a train ticket from Budapest to Bucharest typically ranges between €37 and €44. However, it is important to note that prices can vary depending on factors such as the class of service, time of travel, and how far in advance the ticket is purchased. It is recommended to check the website of the Hungarian State Railways or other online ticketing platforms for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, it is advisable to book tickets early to secure the best possible fares.
The cost of a bus ticket from Budapest to Bucharest ranges between €54 and €71. Please note that prices may vary depending on the bus company, the time of travel, and the availability of tickets. It is recommended to check with different bus operators and compare prices to ensure you find the best deal for your journey.
The cost of driving from Budapest to Bucharest can vary depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls. On average, it can cost between €128 to €192 for the round trip. However, it is important to consider additional expenses such as parking fees and potential maintenance costs for the car. It is recommended to check current fuel prices and toll information before planning the journey.

Trips to Bucharest