Trains from Vienna to Bucharest
Why Choose Bus from Vienna to Bucharest
Traveling from Vienna to Bucharest offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and scenic views. Choosing the right mode of transportation can significantly enhance your journey.
💰 Scenic Views
pros
- Enjoy picturesque landscapes of the Austrian and Romanian countryside along the way, which are especially beautiful during daylight.
- The train route passes through various charming towns and rivers, providing a scenic experience not available when flying.
cons
- If traveling overnight, you might miss out on these views due to darkness, impacting the scenic aspect of the journey.
🛎️ Convenience of Train Stations
pros
- Wien Hbf is centrally located, making it easily accessible for travelers staying in Vienna, while Bucuresti Nord station is similarly well-placed for access to the city.
- Trains generally have fewer check-in restrictions compared to flights, reducing the hassle of airport security and boarding.
cons
- Traveling to and from the train stations may still require additional time compared to the convenience of airport locations.
⭐ Comfort and Amenities
pros
- Overnight trains provide sleeping accommodations that enhance comfort during the long journey (approximately 20 hours).
- Railjet trains often feature amenities like dining cars, Wi-Fi, and spacious seating that allow for a more enjoyable travel experience.
cons
- Long travel time means less time for exploration at the destination, particularly if your main interest is a quick visit.
highlights:
Be prepared for the extended travel time of approximately 18 hours, which is significantly longer than both buses and flights.
Flexible departure times with daily services make it easy to plan your trip.
Competitive pricing, ranging from €77 to €93, makes train travel an affordable option compared to flights.
Avoiding the stress of airport security and potential delays adds to a smoother overall travel experience.
Train Options from Vienna to Bucharest
| Type | company | departure station | arrival station | departure time | arrival time | Frequency | Duration | Price Range | layover city |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct | Railjet | Wien Hbf, Vienna | Bucuresti Nord, Bucharest | 19:30, 21:30 | 13:54, 15:54 | Daily | 18h 24m | € 77-93 | |
| Connecting | Romanian Railways (CFR) | Wien Hbf, Vienna | Bucuresti Nord, Bucharest | 09:15 | 05:15 | Twice daily | 20h | € 77-93 | Sofia |
Comparison of Train Operators from Vienna to Bucharest
Comparing train operators servicing the route from Vienna to Bucharest is crucial for travelers to choose the most suitable option based on their preferences for price, amenities, and accessibility. This route is popular for its scenic views and overnight travel convenience, making it essential to understand the differences between the operators.
| Criteria | Railjet | Romanian Railways (CFR) |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | € 77 - € 93 | € 78 - € 95 |
| pricing policies | ||
| refund policy | Tickets are refundable with a 10% fee up to 24 hours before departure. | Tickets can be refunded within 12 hours of purchase with a 20% fee. |
| Ticket Changes | Changes allowed up to 1 hour before departure for a fee of €10. | Free changes allowed up to 2 hours before departure. |
| discounts | Discounts available for students and seniors, up to 20% off. | Early bird discounts for tickets purchased 30 days in advance. |
| amenities | Free Wi-Fi, Onboard dining options, Power outlets at seats, Restroom facilities | Air conditioning, Sleeping compartments available, Dining car, Luggage racks |
| baggage allowance | ||
| Additional Fees | €15 for each additional checked bag. | €10 for oversized baggage. |
| accessibility | Train equipped with accessible toilets and spaces for wheelchairs. | Trains feature priority seating and assistance for disabled passengers. |
Both Railjet and CFR offer competitive pricing and similar amenities, but each has distinct policies that may affect traveler decisions. Railjet may be preferable for tech-savvy travelers wanting Wi-Fi and power outlets, while CFR is advantageous for those needing more flexible ticket change policies or early booking discounts. Travelers should consider their specific needs to select the best operator for their journey.
Train Stops and Stations from Vienna to Bucharest
Knowing the main train stations is crucial for a seamless travel experience between Vienna and Bucharest.
Main Train Stations in Vienna
Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Central Station)
facilities
- Restrooms
- Spacious 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 (U1), and trams
- Taxi and rideshare services available
- Parking facilities for private vehicles
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure
- Be aware of security procedures, particularly for international travel
- Try to avoid peak hours (8 AM - 9 AM and 5 PM - 7 PM) for a less crowded experience
- Explore nearby amenities, like shops or restaurants, if you have spare time
Main Train Stations in Bucharest
Gara de Nord (North Station)
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with seating
- Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
- Luggage storage available
- Free Wi-Fi
- Food and beverage options (cafés, self-service restaurants)
- ATMs and currency exchange services
- Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
- Public transportation options: buses and metro lines (M1 and M3)
- Taxi and rideshare services readily available
- Parking facilities for those traveling by car
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your intended arrival time if planning to make transfers
- Be mindful of the security checks often in place
- Avoid peak hours (8 AM - 9 AM and 4 PM - 6 PM) to experience less congestion
- Make use of nearby shops and restaurants to unwind after your journey
En Route Stops
Györ
facilities
- Restrooms
- Small waiting area
- Food and beverage options (kiosk)
- Free Wi-Fi
Budapest Keleti
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas
- Ticket counters
- Food outlets and cafes
Szeged
facilities
- Basic restrooms
- Information kiosk
- Limited food options
Familiarizing yourself with the main train stations in both Vienna and Bucharest, along with the stops along the route, will greatly assist in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Travel Tips
⛰ Enjoying Scenic Views
The train route from Vienna to Bucharest offers stunning landscapes. Be sure to sit on the right side of the train to catch breathtaking views of the Carpathian Mountains as you travel through Romania.
📍 Pack Local Snacks
While onboard, consider bringing some traditional snacks or meals from Austria or Romania. It enhances the culinary experience and can be a conversation starter with fellow travelers.
🚍 Explore Stopovers
Take advantage of key stopovers such as Sibiu or Brasov, famous for their medieval architecture and vibrant culture. Plan to spend a few hours in these cities to experience their charm.
🎭 Utilize Onboard Amenities
Make the most of onboard amenities like free Wi-Fi and power outlets. This is a great chance to catch up on travel plans or enjoy some entertainment as you travel.
🏛 Bring a Language Guide
Since you'll be crossing into Romania, it's useful to have a basic language guide for common Romanian phrases. This will help with interactions during stops and enhance your travel experience.
FAQ
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