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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cologne to Budapest
Showing times and prices for Nov 06
Cheapest price
$89
Average price
$100
Fastest journey
17 h 15 m
Average duration
17 h 52 m
Buses per day
21
Distance
956 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cologne to Budapest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Budapest will cost around $100 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $89.
Fast buses
Of the 21 buses that leave Cologne for Budapest on Thu, Nov 06, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Nov 06 the direct buses cover the 956 km distance in an average of 17 h 52 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 17 h 15 m .
On Thu, Nov 06 the slowest buses will take 18 h 25 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
FlixBus · FlixBus10:35AM19h35
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)06:10AMBudapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás
$891One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus10:40AM20h00
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)06:40AMBudapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás
$891One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus10:35AM19h50
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)06:25AMBudapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar
$891One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus02:15AM19h30
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)09:45PMBudapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar
$901One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus11:35PM18h35
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)06:10PMBudapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar
$901One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus03:50PM17h15
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)09:05AMBudapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar
$1101One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus · FlixBus07:35PM17h35
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)01:10PMBudapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás
$991One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus07:35PM17h50
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)01:25PMBudapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar
$991One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus11:35PM18h15
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)05:50PMBudapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás
$901One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus03:50PM18h25
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)10:15AMBudapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás
$1121One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Budapest
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Budapest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €48. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 1m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €48, and a flight costs an average of €42.
Distance: 594 miles (956 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€82 Average price Cheapest | €162 Average price | €267 Average price |
18h 10m Average total duration 17h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 29m Average total duration 10h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 1m Average total duration Fastest 2h 1m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
1.0 - 2.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.3 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.9 - 5.7kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Cologne to Budapest Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15AM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 19h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:13AM | Arrival Time 07:30AM | Duration 25h17 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $99 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:10AM | Arrival Time 05:05AM | Duration 20h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 05:35AM | Duration 21h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:35AM | Arrival Time 04:20AM | Duration 19h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $98 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:14AM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 19h56 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $102 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:35AM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 19h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 06:40AM | Duration 20h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 05:05AM | Duration 18h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $142 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 06:40AM | Duration 19h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 05:10AM | Duration 15h20 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:50PM | Arrival Time 10:15AM | Duration 18h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:14PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 26h31 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 24h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 21h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:35PM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 17h50 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator Regiojet | Departure Time 07:40PM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 20h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 21h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:35PM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 18h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $73 |
Live departures
Cologne to Budapest bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Budapest buses for today, Wednesday, November 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 9:34 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:35 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) | 19h35 | 5:10 AM Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus | 10:05 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) | 18h00 | 4:05 AM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:20 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) | 20h10 | 6:30 AM Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:20 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) | 19h20 | 5:40 AM Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:45 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) | 21h40 | 2:25 PM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:45 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) | 21h15 | 2:00 PM Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás | 1 transfer | |
 (Amsterdam -> Prague) · (Prague -> Budapest) | 6:40 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 20h55 | 3:35 PM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar | 1 transfer | |
| (Amsterdam -> Prague) · (Prague -> Budapest) | 6:40 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 20h35 | 3:15 PM Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:00 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) | 21h45 | 5:45 PM Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:35 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) | 18h35 | 5:10 PM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:35 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) | 18h15 | 4:50 PM Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, November 6 | |||||
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:15 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) | 19h30 | 8:45 PM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:15 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) | 20h50 | 10:05 PM Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:15 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) | 21h20 | 4:35 AM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Budapest by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cologne to Budapest
Germany
Hungary
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $51 (€42)
Distance 594 miles (956 km) |
Average bus duration 17h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $58 (€48) |
Buses per day 21 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 15h 20m |
First bus 00:25 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Cologne to Budapest start from as low as $58 (€48) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $100 (€82) depending on the train type and class.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $51 (€42)
Bus providers: FlixBus, Karat-S from Cologne to BudapestYou can travel by bus between Cologne to Budapest with FlixBus, Karat-S for as low as $51 (€42). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
15h 20m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€39)
FlixBus frequency
24 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Karat-S
About
Karat-S is a prominent bus operator based in Sofia, Bulgaria, with an extensive transportation network across Europe. The company offers both national and international bus services, connecting various cities in countries like Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Serbia, in addition to numerous routes within Bulgaria. Karat-S is known for its affordable and punctual services, making it a popular choice for both tourists and daily commuters. Amenities often include air conditioning, adjustable seats, and sometimes Wi-Fi and restrooms, though availability can vary by vehicle. Karat-S operates over 18 daily departures and has a strong presence with offices and points of sale across Europe.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg (55x40x20) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible restrooms.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; must be packed in a bike bag.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
FAQs: Bus from Cologne to Budapest
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Budapest by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Budapest, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cologne to Budapest can start from as little as $59 (€48) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cologne to Budapest is $92 (€76); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The bus time to Budapest from Cologne is on average 15 h 20 min for the 593 mile (956 km) long journey, but the time it takes to go from Cologne to Budapest by bus can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Cologne to Budapest leaves at 9: 35AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Cologne to Budapest leaves at 10: 35PM.
Yes, there is 1 direct bus a day from Cologne to Budapest with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
For the best Cologne to Budapest bus to buy, you can travel safely and comfortably with FlixBus or Karat-S. However, it's always good to check all possible bus providers with services from Cologne to Budapest to compare what amenities they may offer.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cologne to Budapest is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Budapest including taking a train, bus or flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cologne to Budapest:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Karat-S
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cologne to Budapest for bus companies FlixBus and Karat-S.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Budapest are:
- Buda Castle, a historic castle complex offering panoramic views of the city and housing the Budapest History Museum
- Parliament Building, an iconic Gothic Revival structure situated on the Danube River, known for its stunning architecture and guided tours
- Fisherman's Bastion, a neo-Gothic terrace providing picturesque views of the Danube and Pest
- St. Stephen's Basilica, a grand cathedral named after Hungary's first king, featuring a beautiful interior and panoramic dome views
- Heroes' Square, a major square in Budapest noted for its iconic statues and the Millennium Monument.
The best things to do in Budapest include:
- Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest and most popular thermal bath complexes in Europe
- Explore the vibrant Great Market Hall, offering a variety of local foods and crafts
- Take a scenic cruise on the Danube River, providing unique views of Budapest's landmarks
- Visit the House of Terror Museum, which commemorates the victims of the fascist and communist regimes in Hungary
- Enjoy a performance at the Hungarian State Opera House, renowned for its stunning architecture and world-class productions.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus companies FlixBus and Karat-S.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cologne to Budapest depends on the bus companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
- Karat-S
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Cologne to Budapest, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Cologne to Budapest.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cologne to Budapest:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- Karat-S
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg (55x40x20) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Cologne to Budapest:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- Karat-S
- 10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cologne to Budapest. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- Guide dogs travel for free.
- Karat-S
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- Larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cologne to Budapest with the following bus providers: FlixBus and Karat-S
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cologne to Budapest with the following bus companies: FlixBus and Karat-S.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cologne to Budapest with the following bus providers: FlixBus and Karat-S.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cologne to Budapest
Cologne
Budapest
The major bus station for departures in Cologne is Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) for your trip from Cologne to Budapest.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
ATM
Accessibility
WCinformation
Distance to city center
13 km
Car connection
KennedystraßeWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 00:00-23:59
Distance to city center
13 kmCar connection
KennedystrasseWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Taxis
- Available outside Terminal 2 arrivals area.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)
- Bus: SB60 Train: S13, S19
The major bus station for arrivals in Budapest is Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar for your trip to Budapest from Cologne.
Amenities at bus station
WifiParking
DiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 05:30-22:00
Distance to city center
5 kmCar connection
Üllői útWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria Népliget (in the station)
- Gulyás Tér (0.5 km)
- Pesti Burger (0.7 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available near the entrance.
Public transit options for Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar
- Bus: 103, 254E, 901, 918 Metro: M3
Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
4 kmCar connection
Somogyi útWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria Kelenföld (in the station)
- Bistro Budapest (0.5 km)
- Café Central (0.7 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás
- Bus: 7, 103, 114, 213, 214 Metro: M4 Train: Suburban Railway
Budapest, Mexikói Út M
information
Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér
information
Most popular bus connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Budapest
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Budapest and Cologne
Most popular bus connections to Budapest
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