Cologne to Budapest bus with FlixBus

Fri, Dec 19
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Rede Expressos
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cologne to Budapest

Showing times and prices for Dec 21

Cheapest price

$155

Average price

$185

Fastest journey

17 h 15 m

Average duration

17 h 34 m

Buses per day

22

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 $185 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $155.

Fast buses

Of the 22 buses that leave Cologne for Budapest on Sun, Dec 21, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Dec 21 the direct buses cover the 956 km distance in an average of 17 h 34 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 17 h 15 m .

On Sun, Dec 21 the slowest buses will take 17 h 56 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.

FlixBusFlixBus
03:50PM17h15
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
09:05AMBudapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar
$1551One-way
0 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus
11:05AM18h00
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
05:05AMBudapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar
$1631One-way
0 transfers
FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
04:14PM18h46
Cologne Hbf
11:00AMBudapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás
$1731One-way
1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
03:50PM18h25
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
10:15AMBudapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás
$1751One-way
1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
07:35PM17h35
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
01:10PMBudapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás
$1751One-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

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Eurowings

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

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:15AM
Arrival Time
08:45PM
Duration
18h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$128
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:50AM
Arrival Time
09:45PM
Duration
18h55
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$145
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:10AM
Arrival Time
05:05AM
Duration
20h55
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$133
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:35AM
Arrival Time
06:10AM
Duration
19h35
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$141
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:40AM
Arrival Time
07:30AM
Duration
20h50
Departure days
Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$156
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:05AM
Arrival Time
05:05AM
Duration
18h00
Departure days
Tue, Sun
Cheapest price
$148
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:20AM
Arrival Time
07:30AM
Duration
20h10
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
$137
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:14PM
Arrival Time
06:10AM
Duration
17h56
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$142
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:55PM
Arrival Time
06:10AM
Duration
17h15
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$131
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:50PM
Arrival Time
05:10AM
Duration
15h20
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$196
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:50PM
Arrival Time
11:50AM
Duration
20h00
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$142
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:14PM
Arrival Time
11:00AM
Duration
18h46
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$126
Operator
FlixTrain
Departure Time
04:14PM
Arrival Time
11:16AM
Duration
19h02
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$137
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:00PM
Arrival Time
05:50PM
Duration
24h50
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$133
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:35PM
Arrival Time
01:25PM
Duration
17h50
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$146
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:00PM
Arrival Time
06:45PM
Duration
21h45
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$141
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:35PM
Arrival Time
08:45PM
Duration
21h10
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$128

Live departures

Cologne to Budapest bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Budapest buses for today, Saturday, December 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 5:14 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus6:35 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
17h50
12:25 PM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus6:35 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
20h00
2:35 PM Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus6:35 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
17h35
12:10 PM Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus8:00 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
21h45
5:45 PM Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus10:35 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
17h45
4:20 PM Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus10:35 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
21h10
7:45 PM Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus10:35 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
18h05
4:40 PM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar1 transfer
Sunday, December 21
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus1:15 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
18h30
7:45 PM Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus1:50 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
18h40
8:30 PM Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus1:50 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
18h55
8:45 PM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus9:40 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
20h50
6:30 AM Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus10:05 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
18h00
4:05 AM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain+meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus11:14 AM Cologne Hbf
17h56
5:10 AM Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás1 transfer
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain+meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus11:14 AM Cologne Hbf
18h11
5:25 AM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus11:55 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
17h15
5:10 AM Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus2:50 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
17h15
8:05 AM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar0 transfersDirect
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus2:50 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
20h00
10:50 AM Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus2:50 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
18h25
9:15 AM Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás1 transfer
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain+meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus3:14 PM Cologne Hbf
19h02
10:16 AM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar2 transfers
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain+meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus3:14 PM Cologne Hbf
18h46
10:00 AM Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás1 transfer
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain+meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus3:14 PM Cologne Hbf
19h36
10:50 AM Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér2 transfers
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus4:00 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)
24h50
4:50 PM Budapest, Mexikói Út M2 transfers

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

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Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cologne to Budapest

GermanyGermany
HungaryHungary
Icon of bus

Buses from Cologne to Budapest run on average 21 times per day, taking around 17h 40m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $60 (€48) but you can travel from only $52 (€42) by flight.

There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:25, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 594 miles (956 km) distance in 15h 20m.

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 $52 (€42)
Distance
594 miles (956 km)
Average bus duration
17h 40m
Cheapest ticket price
$60 (€48)
Buses per day
21
Direct buses
1
Fastest bus
15h 20m
First bus
00:25
Last bus
23:55
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 $52 (€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 $52 (€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
$49 (€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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Cologne to Budapest can start from as little as $60 (€48) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cologne to Budapest is $94 (€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:

  • Book in advance: Tickets are often cheaper when booked early.
  • Be flexible with dates and times: Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money.
  • Use our search filters: Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options.
  • Look for special deals or discounts: Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
  • 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
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    ATMATM
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    information
    ticketOfficeHours
    Distance to city center
    13 km
    carConnection
    Car connection
    Kennedystraße
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Elevators, ramps
    WC
    WC
    • Available in the station.
    Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)WifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    ticketOfficeHours
    Ticket Office Hours
    • 00:00-23:59
    ticketOfficeHours
    Distance to city center
    13 km
    carConnection
    Car connection
    Kennedystrasse
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Taxis
    Taxis
    • Available outside Terminal 2 arrivals area.
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Elevators, ramps
    WC
    WC
    • Available in the station.
    Public transit options for Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)
    • Bus: SB60 Train: S13, S19

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