4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Budapest
- Cheapest price on 13 Nov
- €69
- Average ticket price on 13 Nov
- €192
- Fastest journey on 13 Nov
- 11 h 48 m
- Average journey duration on 13 Nov
- 12 h 8 m
- Trains on 13 Nov
- 18
- Distance
- 956 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Budapest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Budapest will cost around €192 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only €69.
To travel from Cologne to Budapest you need to make at least 2 changes.
ICE 515 · RJX 69 · EC 3419:46 AM 12h49 Cologne Messe/Deutz 10:35 PM Budapest Keleti €69 1 One-way 2 changes- ICE 515 · RJX 69 · EC 341 · R 4711
9:46 AM 12h33 Cologne Messe/Deutz 10:19 PM Budapest-Deli €69 1 One-way 3 changes - ICE 217 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · RJX 69
9:58 AM 12h21 Cologne Messe/Deutz 10:19 PM Budapest-Deli €69 1 One-way 5 changes - ICE 217 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · RJX 69
9:58 AM 12h37 Cologne Messe/Deutz 10:35 PM Budapest Keleti €69 1 One-way 4 changes 
ICE 27 · ICE 1255 · ICE 211+
IC 7479:53 AM 14h36 Cologne Hbf 12:29 AM Budapest Keleti €87 1 One-way 4 changes
- ICE 915 · ICE 119 · RJX 165 · R 4631
9:31 AM 11h48 Cologne Messe/Deutz 9:19 PM Budapest-Deli €160 1 One-way 3 changes - ICE 915 · ICE 119 · RJX 165
9:31 AM 12h04 Cologne Messe/Deutz 9:35 PM Budapest Keleti €160 1 One-way 2 changes - ICE 915 · ICE 119+
RJX 1659:31 AM 12h04 Cologne Messe/Deutz 9:35 PM Budapest Keleti €326 1 One-way 2 changes - ICE 217 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · RJX 69
9:58 AM 12h21 Cologne Messe/Deutz 10:19 PM Budapest-Deli €69 1 One-way 5 changes - ICE 119 · RJX 165 · R 4631
8:58 AM 12h21 Cologne Messe/Deutz 9:19 PM Budapest-Deli €140 1 One-way 2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Budapest
Germany
Hungary
Trains from Cologne to Budapest run on average 11 times per day, taking around 11h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €38 but you can travel from only €20 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 956 km distance in 9h 46m.
Distance 956 km |
Average train duration 11h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price €38 |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 9h 46m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 42 days |
Live departures
Cologne to Budapest train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Budapest trains for today, Thursday, 12 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 217 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · RJX 69 | Delayed 9:04 AM 9:58 AMCologne Messe/Deutz | 12h21 | 10:19 PM Budapest-Deli | 5 changes | |
| ICE 217 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · RJX 69 | Delayed 9:04 AM 9:58 AMCologne Messe/Deutz | 12h37 | 10:35 PM Budapest Keleti | 4 changes | |
 FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 12:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 20h16 | 8:30 AM Budapest, Kelenföld Vasútállomás | 1 change | |
| Friday, 13 November | |||||
| IC 2040 · ICE 515 · RJX 69 · EC 341 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 13h26 | 10:19 PM Budapest-Deli | 4 changes | |
| IC 2040+ICE 515+RJX 69+IC 745 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 14h42 | 11:35 PM Budapest Keleti | 4 changes | |
| ICE 119 · RJX 165 | On time 8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 12h37 | 9:35 PM Budapest Keleti | 1 change | |
| ICE 119 · RJX 165 · R 4631 | On time 8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 12h21 | 9:19 PM Budapest-Deli | 2 changes | |
| ICE 119+RJX 165 | On time 8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 12h37 | 9:35 PM Budapest Keleti | 1 change | |
| ICE 915 · ICE 119 · RJX 165 · R 4631 | On time 9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 11h48 | 9:19 PM Budapest-Deli | 3 changes | |
| ICE 915 · ICE 119 · RJX 165 | On time 9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 12h04 | 9:35 PM Budapest Keleti | 2 changes | |
| ICE 915 · ICE 119+RJX 165 | On time 9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 12h04 | 9:35 PM Budapest Keleti | 2 changes | |
ICE 515+RJX 69+ EC 341+DB S6 | Delayed 8:46 AM 9:37 AMCologne Hbf | 12h58 | 10:35 PM Budapest Keleti | 3 changes | |
| ICE 515+RJX 69 · DB S6+EC 341 | Delayed 8:46 AM 9:37 AMCologne Hbf | 12h58 | 10:35 PM Budapest Keleti | 3 changes | |
| ICE 515 · RJX 69 · EC 341 | On time 9:46 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 12h49 | 10:35 PM Budapest Keleti | 2 changes | |
| ICE 515 · RJX 69 · EC 341 · R 4711 | On time 9:46 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 12h33 | 10:19 PM Budapest-Deli | 3 changes | |
| ICE 515+RJX 69+EC 341 | On time 9:46 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 12h49 | 10:35 PM Budapest Keleti | 2 changes | |
| ICE 515+RJX 69+EC 341 | On time 9:46 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 12h49 | 10:35 PM Budapest Keleti | 2 changes | |
| ICE 27 · ICE 1255 · ICE 211+IC 747 | 9:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 14h36 | 12:29 AM Budapest Keleti | 4 changes | |
| ICE 217 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · RJX 69 | Delayed 8:59 AM 9:58 AMCologne Messe/Deutz | 12h21 | 10:19 PM Budapest-Deli | 5 changes | |
| ICE 217 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · RJX 69 | Delayed 8:59 AM 9:58 AMCologne Messe/Deutz | 12h37 | 10:35 PM Budapest Keleti | 4 changes | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Budapest trains with Omio?
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB, ÖBB | Nightjet or ÖBB | Euro City (EC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Budapest.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Budapest.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Budapest.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity, EuroNight, ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | Railjet from Cologne to Budapest trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity, EuroNight, ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | Railjet trains will get you between Cologne and Budapest from €20. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
ÖBB | InterCity
ÖBB | Nightjet
ÖBB | Railjet
EuroNight
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cologne and Budapest
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
FAQs: Cologne to Budapest train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Budapest by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Budapest, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Budapest
Most Cologne to Budapest trains use the Köln Hbf to Budapest Keleti station pair, with some services arriving at Budapest-Déli. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Budapest train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Which Cologne station do trains to Budapest leave from?
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
Köln Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
Köln Messe/Deutz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services
Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Which Budapest station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Getting to Budapest Keleti from Budapest city centre
Budapest Keleti is 3 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
Budapest Keleti train station facilities and services
Budapest Keleti has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rosenstein Restaurant, Huszar Restaurant
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Budapest Keleti. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Budapest Keleti. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Budapest Keleti: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Budapest Keleti: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest Keleti: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Hungaria City Center, Baross City Hotel, Royal Park Boutique Hotel.
Getting to Budapest-Déli from Budapest city centre
Budapest-Déli is 1 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
Budapest-Déli train station facilities and services
Budapest-Déli has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Déli Terasz Söröző, Ibrahim török büfé, Vagon Etterem, Fornetti, Trio pizza, Turkish Döner KEBAB, Déli Mosoly, Balatonexpressz Étkezőkocsi, Club D One, Lokomotív Falatozó
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are aTM machines are located on the ground floor inside the main hall.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:00-10:00, 10:20-14:00, 14:25- 17:35. Information desks are located in the passenger hall of the train station, next to the international ticket offices.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is located in the passenger hall, approaching the entrance near the international checkout to the left.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Budapest-Déli: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Budapest-Déli: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest-Déli: There are some accessible features including ramps and elevators.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Mercure Budapest Castle Hill, Christina Residence Budapest, ibis Budapest Castle Hill.
Getting to Budapest-Kelenföld from Budapest city centre
Budapest-Kelenföld is 3 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
Budapest-Kelenföld train station facilities and services
Budapest-Kelenföld has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Etele Plaza, KFC Etele Plaza
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Budapest-Kelenföld. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Budapest-Kelenföld. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Griff, Hotel Ventura, Hotel Berlin.
Most popular train 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 trains to and from Budapest and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Budapest
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