Trains from Bucharest to Budapest
Why Choose Bus from Bucharest to Budapest
Traveling from Bucharest to Budapest offers a variety of transportation options, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Choosing the right mode of transport can significantly enhance your travel experience, ensuring comfort, scenic views, and time efficiency.
💰 Comfort and Space
pros
- Trains from Bucharest to Budapest provide spacious and comfortable seating, allowing travelers to relax during the long journey of approximately 16 hours and 45 minutes.
- Unlike buses, trains typically have room for luggage and the option to walk around, making the trip less confining and more enjoyable.
cons
- Limited seating availability can lead to full coaches, especially during peak travel seasons, which may necessitate booking in advance.
🛎️ Scenic Views
pros
- Traveling by train along this route allows passengers to enjoy stunning views of the Romanian and Hungarian countryside, enriching the travel experience.
- Trains often pass through picturesque towns and landscapes that are not visible from highways, making it an ideal choice for photography enthusiasts.
cons
- Traveling at night may reduce visibility of the scenery, potentially missing out on the beautiful landscapes.
⭐ Convenient Station Access
pros
- Bucharest North station and Budapest-Keleti station are centrally located, making it easy to access from various parts of each city.
- Both stations are well connected to local public transport, simplifying travel to and from the train stations.
cons
- Train schedules operate once daily, limiting flexibility compared to other transport methods like buses that may offer multiple departures throughout the day.
highlights:
The length of the journey (approximately 16 hours and 45 minutes) may be a consideration for those seeking faster alternatives, such as flights.
Direct train services eliminate the hassle of multiple transfers, easing travel between Bucharest and Budapest.
Affordability is a key benefit, with tickets ranging from €66 to €80, providing value compared to some last-minute flight prices.
The cultural ambiance of train travel can enhance the journey, providing an authentic experience of Eastern European railways.
Train Options from Bucharest to Budapest
| Type | company | departure station | arrival station | departure time | arrival time | Frequency | Duration | Price Range | layover city |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct | CFR Călători | Bucuresti Nord, Bucharest | Budapest-Keleti, Budapest | 22:10 | 14:55 | Daily | 16h 45m | € 66-80 | |
| Connecting | CFR Călători / MÁV-START Zrt. | Bucuresti Nord, Bucharest | Budapest-Keleti, Budapest | 22:10 | 13:26 | Once daily | 15h 16m | € 66-80 | Szolnok |
| Connecting | CFR Călători / MÁV-START Zrt. | Bucuresti Nord, Bucharest | Budapest-Keleti, Budapest | 22:10 | 13:30 | Once daily | 15h 20m | € 66-80 | Szolnok |
| Connecting | CFR Călători / MÁV-START Zrt. | Bucuresti Nord, Bucharest | Budapest-Keleti, Budapest | 22:10 | 14:36 | Once daily | 16h 26m | € 66-80 | Teiuș,Szolnok |
| Connecting | CFR Călători / MÁV-START Zrt. | Bucuresti Nord, Bucharest | Budapest-Keleti, Budapest | 22:10 | 15:00 | Once daily | 16h 30m | € 66-80 | Teiuș,Szolnok |
| Connecting | Transferoviar Călători / CFR Călători | Bucuresti Nord, Bucharest | Budapest-Keleti, Budapest | 06:10 | 01:49 | Once daily | 19h 39m | € 66-80 | Roșiori Nord,Arad |
Comparison of Train Operators from Bucharest to Budapest
Comparing train operators on the Bucharest to Budapest route is crucial for travelers to make informed decisions based on factors like price, amenities, and policies. This helps ensure a comfortable and budget-friendly travel experience.
| Criteria | CFR Călători | MÁV-START Zrt. | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | € 66 - € 80 | € 70 - € 85 | € 80 - € 95 |
| pricing policies | |||
| refund policy | Refunds available up to 24 hours before departure. | Refunds are possible with a 15% deduction if canceled 12 hours before departure. | Non-refundable tickets, changes not permitted. |
| Ticket Changes | Free changes allowed up to 48 hours before the journey. | Changes are allowed for a €5 fee. | Changes allowed with a fee of €20. |
| discounts | 10% discounts for students and seniors on weekdays. | Family discounts for groups traveling together. | No discounts available. |
| amenities | Free Wi-Fi, Power outlets, Dining car, Restroom facilities | Air conditioning, Onboard snacks, Reading lights, Luggage racks | Power outlets, Personal entertainment system, Family compartments |
| baggage allowance | |||
| Additional Fees | €10 for each additional checked bag. | €15 for oversized baggage. | €25 for any checked bags. |
| accessibility | Wheelchair accessible with designated spaces on the train. | Accessible restrooms and staff assistance available on request. | Limited accessibility options available. |
CFR Călători offers the most economical choices and generous baggage allowances, ideal for budget travelers. MÁV-START Zrt. has reasonable prices and good amenities, catering to families. For travelers seeking comfort and flexibility, consider CFR Călători for better options.
Train Stops and Stations from Bucharest to Budapest
Understanding train stations is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience between Bucharest and Budapest.
Main Train Stations in Bucharest
Gara de Nord
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with seating
- Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
- Luggage storage lockers
- Free Wi-Fi
- Food and beverage options (cafés, vending machines)
- ATMs and currency exchange services
- Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
- Public transportation options: buses, metro lines (M1 line), trams
- Taxi and rideshare services availability
- Parking facilities for private vehicles
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure
- Be aware of security checks at entrance
- Try to travel outside peak hours (early morning and late afternoon) for less crowding
- Explore nearby amenities like shops and restaurants if you have spare time
Main Train Stations in Budapest
Budapest Keleti
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with seating
- Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
- Luggage storage lockers
- Free Wi-Fi
- Food and beverage options (cafés, vending machines)
- ATMs and currency exchange services
- Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
- Public transportation options: metro lines (M2 line), buses, trams
- Taxi and rideshare services are readily available
- Parking facilities for private vehicles
- Aim to arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled arrival to allow for disembarkation
- Be prepared for potential customs checks
- Consider avoiding the busiest times (morning and late afternoon) to ease your arrival
- Look for nearby amenities for quick meals or shopping if you have waiting time
En Route Stops
Sofia
facilities
- Limited seating area
- Restrooms
- Food vending machines
Plovdiv
facilities
- Waiting area
- Restrooms
- Snack kiosks
Novi Sad
facilities
- Limited seating
- Restrooms
- Food vending machines
Familiarizing yourself with the train stations in Bucharest and Budapest can significantly enhance your travel experience. Plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Travel Tips
⛰ Enjoy the Scenic Views
As the train winds through the Carpathian Mountains, be sure to keep your camera ready. The breathtaking landscapes, including rolling hills and quaint villages, make this journey visually enchanting.
📍 Sample Local Snacks
Bring along some traditional Romanian pastries or grab a few Hungarian treats at the station before departure. Sharing snacks with fellow travelers can be a delightful way to bond and share experiences.
🚍 Explore Key Stopovers
Plan to make a stop in cities like Arad or Timișoara. These towns have beautiful architecture and cultural sites worth exploring, making your journey more enriching.
🎭 Understand Seat Reservations
Book your train tickets in advance and reserve seats, especially during high travel seasons. This ensures a comfortable journey without the hassle of finding a good spot last minute.
🏛 Be Mindful of Currency & Language
Romania uses the Romanian Leu, while Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint. Keep some local currency handy and learn a few basic phrases in Hungarian for smooth communication.
FAQ
Trips from Bucharest
Trips to Sibiu
- Athens 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
- Brno to Budapest
- Amsterdam to Budapest
- Paris to Budapest
- Prague to Budapest
- Vienna to Budapest
- Frankfurt am Main to Budapest
- Munich to Budapest
- Milan to Budapest
- Berlin to Budapest
- Debrecen to Budapest
- Salzburg to Budapest
- London to Budapest
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