Bucharest, Bucharest region to Budapest, Budapest from $55: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Bucharest to Budapest: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$55 by busBest price
645 kmDistance
4h 41m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Bucharest 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.
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| Type | Mo 06/01 | Tu 07/01 | We 08/01 | Th 09/01 | Fr 10/01 | Sa 11/01 | Su 12/01 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | $32 | $38 | $30 | $27 | $31 | $32 | $36 |
| Fly | $36 | $28 | $28 | $48 | $50 | $46 | $46 |
Traveling From Bucharest to Budapest
The journey from Bucharest to Budapest offers you a chance to explore vibrant contrasts: experience Bucharest's energetic charm alongside Budapest's elegant streets and rich history.
Best Neighbourhoods in Budapest
Budapest boasts neighborhoods that cater to diverse tastes and experiences.
District VII - Jewish Quarter
• Home to the famous ruin bars.
• Rich in history and cultural sites.
District V - Pest
• Features the stunning Parliament building.
• Bustling cafes and shopping options abound.
District I - Buda
• Offers beautiful views from Buda Castle.
• Known for its historic charm and tranquility.
Best Times To Visit Budapest's Attractions
Timing your visits to Budapest’s attractions can greatly enhance your experience.
Buda Castle
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Thermal Baths
Weekdays are ideal for a more relaxing soak without the weekend rush.
Hungarian Parliament
Join a guided tour during the afternoon for quieter access and better insights.
Budapest Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Budapest experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons, making it essential to consider weather patterns when planning your trip. The spring and fall months are particularly enjoyable, offering mild temperatures and fewer tourists, while summer can bring heat and crowds, and winter adds a charming, festive atmosphere.
Dining Recommendation in Budapest
Try the traditional Hungarian goulash at Karpatia Restaurant, where the rich flavors and hearty ingredients create a distinctive culinary experience that sets it apart from Bucharest's lighter fare. The restaurant's historic ambiance and emphasis on local ingredients elevate your meal, providing a true taste of Budapest's culinary heritage.
Bucharest - Budapest operators
Explore transport companies operating between Bucharest and Budapest, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
tarom.ro
Plane from Bucharest Otopeni (OTP) to Budapest (BUD)
Average Duration
1h 50mEstimated price
$75-300Website
austrian.com
Plane from Bucharest Otopeni (OTP) to Budapest (BUD)
Average Duration
4h 10mEstimated price
$210-750Contact phone
+40 745 766 766Website
maxibustravel.ro
Bus from Bucharest to Budapest
Average Duration
8h 7mEstimated price
0-0Contact phone
0040263701919Website
latinoexpres.ro
Bus from Bucharest to Budapest
Average Duration
17h 8mEstimated price
$55-80Contact phone
0219521Website
cfrcalatori.ro
Train from Bucuresti Nord to Budapest-Keleti
Average Duration
16h 45mEstimated price
$70-85Train from Bucuresti Nord to Budapest-Kelenfoeld
Average Duration
16h 14mEstimated price
$75-85Bucharest to Budapest: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Bucharest 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 Bucharest to Budapest, covering a distance of 517 miles. Admire the changing landscapes as you journey through Romania and Hungary at your own pace.
💶 Experience the flexibility of driving as prices range from €129 to €194 for the journey. Make pit stops along the way to savor local cuisine, explore charming towns, and capture memorable moments.
🌉 Arrive in Budapest after approximately 9 hours and 15 minutes of driving. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and rich history of Hungary's capital city, with its stunning architecture and relaxing thermal baths awaiting your exploration.
Average price
€129 - €194
⭐️ Traveling by train from Bucharest to Budapest is a scenic journey that takes approximately 16 hours and 45 minutes. The direct train service operated by CFR departs from Bucuresti Nord station and arrives at Budapest-Keleti station once daily, offering a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the two cities.
🚂 For those looking to make the most of their trip, there are various routes available with different durations and transfer options. Whether you prefer a direct route or don't mind a couple of transfers, there are choices to suit your travel preferences and schedule. Prices for the train journey between Bucharest and Budapest typically range from €65 to €78, making it an affordable way to explore these European destinations.
Departure Point
Bucuresti Nord station
Arrival Point
Budapest-Keleti station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: The train operators on this route, including CFR (Romanian Railways) and MÁV (Hungarian Railways), typically offer a catering service where you can purchase snacks, refreshments, and sometimes warm meals. Be aware that the selection may vary, so it’s good to bring some snacks for the journey just in case.
• Seating Options: Both CFR and MÁV provide a variety of seating options. You can choose from First Class, Business Class, and Economy. First Class typically offers more spacious seating and a quieter atmosphere, while Economy is more budget-friendly and provides basic comfort. Make sure to book your tickets in advance to secure the best seating option.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Keleti Station in Budapest, locate the luggage storage service where you can leave your bags if you want to explore the city without them. The station also has modern restroom facilities, but please note that showers are not available. To navigate the station, follow the signs for local transport, and check the station map to quickly find exits or connections.
🛫 Flying from Bucharest Otopeni Airport to Budapest Airport is a convenient and quick journey that takes only 1 hour and 50 minutes on a direct flight. Popular airlines such as Tarom and Austrian Airlines operate flights on this route.
🌍 The total travel time from Bucharest to Budapest by plane is approximately 4 hours and 41 minutes. This includes the time for check-in, security, and the flight itself. Ensure you have ample time to catch your flight and enjoy a smooth journey.
💸 Prices for flights between Budapest and Bucharest can vary between €69 to €272, depending on the airline, the time of booking, and other factors.
Departure Point
Bucharest Otopeni Airport
Arrival Point
Budapest Airport
🚌 Traveling from Bucharest to Budapest by bus is a convenient option for those looking to explore both cities in one trip. The direct bus operated by SC Latino Expres S.R.L. departs once a week on Fridays and takes approximately 17 hours and 8 minutes to reach Budapest from Bucharest.
🛣️ The journey covers a distance of 941 kilometers, making it a long but scenic route through Romania and Hungary. With prices ranging from €51 to €74, it offers an affordable travel option for budget-conscious travelers looking to experience these two vibrant capitals.
Departure Point
Bucharest station
Arrival Point
Budapest station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to book your bus ticket in advance with SC Latino Expres S.R.L. or FlixBus, as there are limited services on this route, operating only once a week on Fridays.
• During the long journey, prepare for a mix of scenery, so bring entertainment such as books or podcasts, and consider packing snacks; you'll find dining options limited along the route.
• Upon arrival at Budapest Nepliget bus station, familiarize yourself with the public transport options; it's well-connected, but downloading a transit app like BudapestGO will help you navigate the metro and bus systems easily.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Bucharest to Budapest.
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The distance between Bucharest and Budapest is approximately 402 miles by air, 516.7 miles by road, and the travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By train, it typically takes around 16 hours and 10 minutes to reach Budapest from Bucharest. By plane, the travel time is around 4 hours and 53 minutes. If you prefer to drive, it takes approximately 9 hours and 15 minutes by car. Lastly, by bus, it takes approximately 17 hours and 8 minutes to reach Budapest from Bucharest.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Bucharest to Budapest is by bus, with prices ranging from €50-€73. Although this option takes the longest, with a travel time of 17 hours and 8 minutes, it is the most budget-friendly choice. However, if time is a priority, flying is the fastest option, taking only 4 hours and 53 minutes. Although it is more expensive, with prices ranging from €101-€339, it offers a significant time savings.
When traveling from Bucharest to Budapest the prices for a train ticket range from €64 to €73. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket vary from €50 to €73. It is advisable to check for the most up-to-date prices and availability before making a decision.
To travel from Bucharest to Budapest without using public transportation, your best option is to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 517 miles, and it takes around 9 hours and 15 minutes to reach Budapest by car. Keep in mind that gas and toll fees should be factored into the costs, and prices for the journey can vary from €128 to €193 depending on factors such as vehicle type and fuel consumption.
To travel from Bucharest to Budapest without a car, the best options are by train or by plane. The train journey takes approximately 16 hours and 10 minutes and costs between €64 and €73. Flying is the fastest option, with a flight duration of around 4 hours and 53 minutes and costs between €101 and €339. There are also bus options available, which take around 17 hours and 8 minutes and cost between €50 and €73.
Yes, there is a direct link between Bucharest and Budapest. There is a daily train service operated by Romanian Railways that departs from Bucuresti Nord station and arrives at Budapest-Keleti station, with a travel time of approximately 16 hours and 10 minutes. Additionally, there is a weekly bus service operated by SC Latino Expres S.R.L. that departs from Bucharest and arrives at Budapest, with a travel time of approximately 17 hours and 8 minutes.
The flight duration between Bucharest and Budapest typically takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary, with prices ranging from €104 to €336. It is recommended to check with airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel needs.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Budapest. With over 1246 hotels to choose from, you can find something to fit your budget and preferences. Prices start as low as €26 per night, so there are options available for every budget. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, you're bound to find something suitable near Budapest.
Trips from Bucharest
- Bucharest to Cluj-Napoca
- Bucharest to Sibiu
- Bucharest to Belgrade
- Bucharest to Dubrovnik
- Bucharest to Paris
- Bucharest to Sofia
- Bucharest to Istanbul
- Bucharest to Vienna
- Bucharest to Athens
- Bucharest to Berlin
- Bucharest to Suceava
- Bucharest to Chisinau
- Bucharest to Constanta
- Bucharest to Brasov
- Bucharest to Tulcea
- Bucharest to Barcelona
- Bucharest to Timisoara
- Bucharest to Costinesti
- Bucharest to Bran (Brasov)
- Bucharest to Sinaia
- Bucharest to Piatra Neamt
- Bucharest to Hamburg
- Bucharest to Botosani
- Bucharest to Busteni
- Bucharest to Predeal
- Bucharest to Bratislava
- Bucharest to Targu Mures
- Bucharest to Moscow
- Bucharest to Hong Kong
- Bucharest to Madrid
- Bucharest to Sighisoara
- Bucharest to Dubai
- Bucharest to Mangalia
- Bucharest to Abu Dhabi
- Bucharest to Manila
- Bucharest to Tokyo
- Bucharest to Odesa
- Bucharest to Mumbai
- Bucharest to Bangkok
- Bucharest to Qormi
Trips to Budapest
- Istanbul to Budapest
- Rome to Budapest
- Venice to Budapest
- Dubrovnik to Budapest
- Split to Budapest
- Bratislava to Budapest
- Ljubljana to Budapest
- Zagreb to Budapest
- Warsaw to Budapest
- Belgrade to Budapest
- Florence to Budapest
- Brussels to Budapest
- Barcelona to Budapest
- Amsterdam to Budapest
- Paris to Budapest
- Prague to Budapest
- Madrid to Budapest
- Vienna to Budapest
- Frankfurt am Main to Budapest
- Munich to Budapest
- Milan to Budapest
- Dublin to Budapest
- Berlin to Budapest
- Salzburg to Budapest
- London to Budapest
- Krakow to Budapest
- Zurich to Budapest
- Nice to Budapest
- Pécs to Budapest
- Miami to Budapest
- Oslo to Budapest
- Edinburgh to Budapest
- New York City to Budapest
- Atlanta to Budapest
- Seattle to Budapest
- Houston to Budapest
- Denver to Budapest
- Dubai to Budapest
- Singapore to Budapest
- Sandomierz to Budapest