How to take a train journey from Wien/Vienna to Budapest

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Wien / Vienna to Budapest by train

There have never been more trains per day between the Austrian and Hungarian capitals, reflecting that it's typically a very straightforward journey.
Though an unusual feature of taking a train from Wien/Vienna to Budapest is that the evening departures are by overnight trains heading to distant destinations in eastern Europe.
Though you won't have to hop on a bed to travel by then as they also convey coaches with seats.

Routes you can take to go from Wien / Vienna to Budapest

When travelling between most cities by train there is only one logical option, though on other journeys there is a choice between different trains or alternative routes. If different options are available you can use the info to decide which is best for you.

Choose one of the following options:

Route Information

Travel Time (approx)

2hr 37min - 2hr 40 min

Frequency

Daily

Travel Info

1 x train per hour


Is the journey from Wien / Vienna to Budapest direct?
Yes, there is no need to make a connection when taking this route.


Is this journey scenic?
It very much isn't, so have something to read or watch


What other tourist locations are along this route from Wien / Vienna to Budapest?
The trains also call in [Gyor(https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Győr).


When is the usual approximate earliest arrival at Budapest-Keleti from Wien Hbf on this journey option?
Before 10:20 daily
Source = European Rail Timetable


How easy is it to travel on from the station in Budapest?
Budapest-Keleti station is on line M2 of the Budapest Metro - which has its city centre stop at Deák Ferenc tér
Line M4 of the Budapest Metro also serves Budapest-Keleti, but the other end of its route is at Budapest-Kelenfold station.
So if your final destination in the city is served by line M4, it is quicker and easier to make the connection at Kelenfold.


When is the usual approximate latest departure from Wien Hbf to Budapest on this journey option
Before 21:45 daily
Source = European Rail Timetable


How easy is it to get to the station in Vienna?
The heart of the city, the area around St Stephens cathedral is linked to Wien Hbf by line 1 of the U-bahn.
The eastern areas of the city centre are linked to Wien Hbf by Lines S1, S2 and S3 of the city’s commuter train (S-Bahn network).
See the Station Guide for more information, plus easy access to booking accommodation in its neighbourhood..


Are tickets cheaper if booked in advance for these Vienna to Budapest trains?
Yes, and they can be purchased from a choice of booking agents - see below.
Click on the 'Good to know info' to access guides to how rail tickets are managed in Austria plus step-by-step guides on how to make a booking.


How soon ahead of travel are tickets typically placed on sale for these Vienna to Budapest trains?
It can be up to 6 months ahead of the travel date; though the booking period will be typically be shorter when looking up journeys for travel after the second Sunday in December; and when looking up summer travel in March to May.


What are the child ticket terms for these Vienna to Budapest trains?
Adults (aged 15 and over) purchasing discounted 'Sparschiene' tickets for travel in either First or Second class, can take up to four children (aged 14 and under) at no additional cost.


Does the ticket for these Vienna to Budapest trains include assigned seats?
No, but they are available and can be added for a fee when booking
See the Train Guide in the Journey Information for insights on how to board the train.


Do rail pass users need to book reservations for these Vienna to Budapest trains?
No, they are optional


Is catering available on the Vienna to Budapest trains?
Yes, there is a bar/bistro car (And a restaurant car is also available on the OBB Railjet trains)
See the Train Guides in the Journey Information.


What else is good to know about Austrian rail travel?
Check out the guide to travelling by train in Austria.


What else is good to know about Hungarian rail travel?
Check out the guide to travelling by train in Hungary.

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