- 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 trains from Bologna to Budapest
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 30
Cheapest price on Aug 30
$179
Average ticket price on Aug 30
$331
Fastest journey on Aug 30
20 h 34 m
Average journey duration on Aug 30
21 h 23 m
Trains on Aug 30
2
Distance
682 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna to Budapest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna to Budapest will cost around $331 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $179.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Bologna to Budapest without transferring at least 2 times.
3:21 PM22h11Bologna1:32 PMBudapest$1791One-way2 transfers
10:54 PM20h34Bologna7:28 PMBudapest$4821One-way3 transfers
- 10:54 PM20h34Bologna7:28 PMBudapest$4821One-way3 transfers
- 3:21 PM22h11Bologna1:32 PMBudapest$1791One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Bologna to Budapest
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Budapest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $19 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 40m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the bus is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.7 - 1.7kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $19, while a flight costs an average of $578.
Distance: 423 miles (682 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$19 Average price Cheapest | $578 Average price | $94 Average price | $110 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 31m Average total duration 11h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 40m Average total duration Fastest 3h 40m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 14h 22m Average total duration 13h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 2.0 - 4.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.7 - 1.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Bologna to Budapest is a train with an average price of $19 (€15).
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Budapest:
A train is $75 (€61) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Bologna to Budapest costing on average $94 (€76).
A train is $559 (€453) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna to Budapest costing on average $578 (€468).
The fastest way to travel from Bologna to Budapest is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 40m.
Other travel options to Budapest take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 1m.
Bus takes on average 13h 52m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna and Budapest including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Budapest among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $19 (€15) compared to roughly $110 (€89) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $91 (€74). The journey takes 11h 1m versus 8h 29m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Bologna to Budapest train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Budapest trains for today, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:21 PM Bologna | 22h07 | 1:28 PM Budapest | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bologna 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: Train from Bologna to Budapest
Italy
Hungary
Trains from Bologna to Budapest run on average 4 times per day, taking around 11h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $15 (€12) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 18:10. The fastest train covers the 423 miles (682 km) distance in 10h 37m.
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
Distance 423 miles (682 km) |
Average train duration 11h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $15 (€12) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 10h 37m |
First train 12:20 AM |
Last train 6:10 PM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Train companies: ÖBB from Bologna to Budapest trainsÖBB trains will get you between Bologna and Budapest from $21 (€17). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
ÖBB
About
ÖBB is Austria’s national railway company, offering a comprehensive network of train services across the country and to neighboring nations. Its fleet includes high-speed InterCity Express (ICE) trains for the fastest and most comfortable journeys, EuroCity (EC) trains for international connections, InterCity (IC) trains for reliable long-distance travel, and Regional Express (REX) trains for frequent local stops. Ticket types include Standard Ticket, Comfort-Ticket, ÖBB Sparschiene-Ticket, and ÖBB Sparschiene Comfort-Ticket, along with options for single, return, and group travel. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and food and beverage services. Popular routes include Vienna–Salzburg, Vienna–Innsbruck, and Vienna–Graz
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB Duration
10h 37m
Cheapest ÖBB Price
$15 (€12)
ÖBB frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (on long-distance trains), bistro service, at-seat service in first class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for €3 in second class, included in first class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance, and special seating areas
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare), guide dogs free
Quiet zone
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
Budapest Keleti Railway Station -> Deák Ferenc tér
- Distance
- 2.5 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Validate paper tickets before boarding or at metro entrances; mobile tickets in BudapestGO must be activated before travel.
- Contactless bank card payment is available in BudapestGO and at many ticket machines, but not generally on board buses, trams, or metro.
FAQs: Trains from Bologna to Budapest
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna 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.
Train ticket prices from Bologna to Budapest can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $15 (€12), while the average price is around $19 (€15).
The train from Bologna to Budapest takes 10h 37m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Bologna to Budapest is 423 miles (682 km).
The first train from Bologna to Budapest leaves at 12:20 AM.
The last train from Bologna to Budapest leaves at 6:10 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Bologna to Budapest.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bologna to Budapest.
Yes, there is a night train from Bologna to Budapest.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna to Budapest is by flight, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
The train journey from Bologna to Budapest offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of Northern Italy, the lush countryside of Slovenia, and the rolling hills of Hungary, providing a varied and visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Bologna to Budapest is not feasible as the journey takes 10h 37m and the frequency is 2 per day for trains.
In Budapest, you can relax at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, explore the vibrant Great Market Hall, take a scenic cruise on the Danube River for unique views of landmarks, visit the House of Terror Museum, and enjoy a performance at the Hungarian State Opera House. Don't miss sights like Buda Castle, the Parliament Building, Fisherman's Bastion, St. Stephen's Basilica, and Heroes' Square for their stunning architecture and historical significance.
Three to four days are generally recommended to explore Budapest’s main attractions, including the historic Buda Castle, thermal baths, and vibrant ruin bars.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Budapest.
Since both Bologna 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.
Popular day trips by train from Budapest include Győr, Hegyeshalom, Mosonmagyaróvár, Nickelsdorf, Csorna.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Budapest among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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.
More options for your journey from Bologna to Budapest
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Budapest and Bologna
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