- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts
Hungary’s top fine arts museum, with major European works from antiquity to the 20th century. Ideal for classic painting, sculpture, and old masters.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Zalău to Budapest
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05
Cheapest price on Sep 05
$43
Average ticket price on Sep 05
$56
Fastest journey on Sep 05
9 h 45 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
9 h 45 m
Buses on Sep 05
2
Distance
304 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Zalău to Budapest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zalău to Budapest will cost around $56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $43.
Fast buses
On Sat, Sep 05, we found 2 buses from Zalău to Budapest, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 05 the direct buses cover the 304 km distance in an average of 9 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 45 m .
On Sat, Sep 05 the slowest buses will take 9 h 45 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.
8:35 AM9h45Zalău6:20 PMBudapest$431One-way0 transfers- 7:35 AM9h45Zalău5:20 PMBudapest$691One-way0 transfers
- 8:35 AM9h45Zalău6:20 PMBudapest$431One-way0 transfers
- 7:35 AM9h45Zalău5:20 PMBudapest$691One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zalău to Budapest
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zalău to Budapest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $27 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 10h 12m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $27, while a flight costs an average of $213.
Distance: 188 miles (304 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$47 Average price | $27 Average price Cheapest | $213 Average price | $96 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 12m Average total duration Fastest 9h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 54m Average total duration 10h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 25h 15m Average total duration 23h 15m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Zalău to Budapest is a train with an average price of $27 (€22).
This is compared to other travel options from Zalău to Budapest:
A train is $20 (€16) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Zalău to Budapest costing on average $47 (€38).
A train is $185 (€150) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zalău to Budapest costing on average $213 (€172).
The fastest way to travel from Zalău to Budapest is by bus with an average journey time of 9h 42m.
Other travel options to Budapest take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 24m.
Flight takes on average 23h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zalău and Budapest including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $47 (€38) compared to roughly $96 (€78) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $49 (€40). The journey takes 9h 42m versus 4h 20m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Zalău to Budapest Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:35AM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:35AM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:35AM | Arrival Time 07:20PM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $30 |
Live departures
Zalău to Budapest bus times
The table below shows live departures for Zalău to Budapest buses for tomorrow, Saturday, September 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:35 AM Zalău | 9h45 | 5:20 PM Budapest | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zalău 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.
Sat
Sep 05
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Zalău to Budapest
Romania
Hungary
Buses from Zalău to Budapest run on average 3 times per day, taking around 9h 42m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $34 (€28) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 04:30, the last at 10:35. The fastest bus covers the 188 miles (304 km) distance in 9h 30m.
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
Train from $27 (€22)
Distance 188 miles (304 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price $34 (€28) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 9h 30m |
First bus 4:30 AM |
Last bus 10:35 AM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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
Train from $27 (€22)
Complete guide to Budapest
Things to do in Budapest
Discover the best of Budapest — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Budapest trip today.
- Recommended
Ludwig Museum
Leading contemporary art museum with strong Hungarian and international shows. Worth visiting for bold exhibitions in a landmark modern building.
- Recommended
Hungarian National Museum
National museum covering Hungarian history, archaeology, and statehood. A classic stop for understanding the country beyond Budapest’s landmarks.
- Must visit
Castle District
UNESCO-listed castle quarter of cobbled streets, courtyards, and viewpoints. Best for atmosphere, heritage walks, and some of Budapest’s finest vistas.
- Must visit
Andrássy Avenue
Elegant Andrássy Avenue links the center with Heroes’ Square through palaces and shops. A grand boulevard ideal for walking and historic city views.
- Must visit
City Park
Large central park with boating lake, baths, museums, and promenades. A versatile area for families, relaxed walks, and major city attractions.
Gulyás
A rich paprika beef soup with potatoes and vegetables. It is Hungary’s signature comfort dish and a staple in homes and traditional inns.
Pörkölt
Slow-cooked beef stew with lots of onion and paprika, usually served with nokedli. A classic example of deep Hungarian paprika flavor.
- Gluten-free
Halászlé
River fish soup, often carp-based, cooked with hot paprika. It is especially traditional along the Danube and at festive family meals.
Rosenstein Vendéglő
Refined Hungarian dining in a historic building, with updated national classics and strong wine service in a formal atmosphere.
Stand Restaurant
Michelin-starred fine dining with a modern tasting menu rooted in Hungarian ingredients. Stylish, intimate, and one of Budapest’s top tables.
Gettó Gulyás
Traditional Hungarian restaurant known for goulash, pörkölt, and live music. Warm, old-style atmosphere near the city center.
Hungarian forint (Ft)
Moderate for Europe: stays and dining are cheaper than in Western capitals, while central hotels and tourist areas cost more. Transit is good value.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 3,500-5,500 Ft for street food or fast food.
- Mid-range
- 6,000-10,000 Ft per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 20,000 Ft+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- 900-1,500 Ft for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
About 10% is common in restaurants if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis and leave small change or round up at cafes.
BudapestGO
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 450 Ft
- Day pass
- 2 500 Ft
To the city center
Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar -> Deák Ferenc tér
- Distance
- 5 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Validate paper tickets before boarding or use a mobile ticket in BudapestGO; inspectors check frequently.
- Contactless bank card payment is available in BudapestGO and at many ticket machines, but not directly on most vehicles.
FAQs: Bus from Zalău to Budapest
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zalău 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 Zalău to Budapest can start from as little as $34 (€28) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Zalău to Budapest is $47 (€38) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Zalău to Budapest is 9h 30m to travel the 188 miles (304 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Zalău to Budapest leaves at 4:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Zalău to Budapest leaves at 10:35 AM.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Zalău, Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul (Gara de Nord), which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar, located 5 away from the city centre.
A trip to Budapest from Zalău is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Zalău to Budapest is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zalău and Budapest including taking a train, bus, and flight.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Zalău to Budapest.
No, the bus from Zalău to Budapest has no accessibility options.
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.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Zalău to Budapest.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Zalău to Budapest.
No, luggage for the bus from Zalău to Budapest needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Zalău to Budapest.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Zalău to Budapest.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Zalău to Budapest.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Zalău to Budapest.
Since both Zalău and Budapest are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
The currency used in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Travelers often find it convenient to use cards in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is recommended for smaller shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Budapest, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, markets, and popular tourist sites. Overcharging and unofficial taxi scams can occur, so it's best to use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps. Be wary of street vendors and people offering unsolicited help or friendship, as these can sometimes lead to distraction theft or pressure to pay for services. Always keep personal belongings secure and stay alert in busy locations.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Zalău to Budapest
Most Zalău to Budapest buses use the Zalău, Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul (Gara de Nord) to Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar station pair. Use this guide to compare Zalău and Budapest bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Zalău
Arrival bus stations in Budapest
Which Zalău station do buses to Budapest leave from?
Buses from Zalău to Budapest leave from Zalău, Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul (Gara de Nord). The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zalău city centre at Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul, Zalău, Romania.
Zalău, Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul (Gara de Nord)Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul, Zalău, Romania
City-centre transport
Getting to Zalău, Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul (Gara de Nord) from Zalău city centre
Zalău, Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul (Gara de Nord) is 2 km from Zalău city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Zalău, Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul (Gara de Nord) bus station facilities and services
Zalău, Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul (Gara de Nord) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Zalău, Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul (Gara de Nord). ATMs are available at Zalău, Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul (Gara de Nord).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zalău, Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul (Gara de Nord).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zalău, Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul (Gara de Nord): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zalău, Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul (Gara de Nord): Basic accessibility features present.
Which Budapest station do buses from Zalău arrive at?
Buses from Zalău to Budapest arrive at Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar. Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar is 3 miles (5 km) from Budapest city centre.
Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-PályaudvarUlloi ut 131, 1091 Budapest, Hungary
City-centre transport
Getting to Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar from Budapest city centre
Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar is 5 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus914, 950, 914A, 950A · 15m · $1 · every ~3 min
N161 · 15m · $1
SubwayM3 · 10m · $1 · every ~28 min
Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar bus station facilities and services
Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Népliget (in the station), Gulyás Tér (0.5 km), Pesti Burger (0.7 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar: Elevators, ramps.
More options for your journey from Zalău to Budapest
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Budapest and Zalău
Most popular bus connections to Budapest
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