- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest
One of Central Europe’s major art museums, with Old Masters, Egyptian antiquities, and European collections. Especially worthwhile for classical art lovers.
Cheapest price
$181
Average price
$224
Fastest journey
16 h 4 m
Average duration
19 h 17 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
1129 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Brussels to Budapest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Brussels to Budapest will cost around $224 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $181.
It's difficult to get from Brussels to Budapest without transferring at least 2 times.
ICE 315 · ICE 1229 · REX 7799 · R 1331
ICE 315 · ICE 1229 · REX 7799 · R 1331
ICE 15 · ICE 1229 · REX 7799 · ARV 1331
ICE 13 · ICE 625 · RJX 261
ICE 15 · 28518 · ICE 629 · IC 406
ICE 13 · ICE 625 · RJX 261
ICE 315 · ICE 1229 · REX 7799 · R 1331
ICE 315 · ICE 1229 · REX 7799 · R 1331
ICE 15 · 28518 · ICE 629 · IC 406
ICE 15 · ICE 1229 · REX 7799 · ARV 1331Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Brussels to Budapest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $72. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 30m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 1.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $72, and a train costs an average of $157.
Distance: 701 miles (1129 km)
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$288 Average price | $206 Average price | $134 Average price Cheapest | $297 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 46m Average total duration 13h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 30m Average total duration Fastest 2h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 21h 27m Average total duration 20h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.4 - 6.8kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.8kg CO2 emissions | - 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Brussels to Budapest:
A bus is $72 (€58) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Brussels to Budapest costing on average $206 (€166).
A bus is $153 (€123) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Brussels to Budapest costing on average $288 (€231).
Other travel options to Budapest take longer:
Train takes on average 13h 16m.
Bus takes on average 20h 57m.
The journey is about 1h 2m faster (13h 16m by train vs 14h 18m by car) and roughly $10 (€8) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($288 (€231) vs $297 (€239)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Brussels to Budapest trains for today, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 13 · ICE 517 · RJX 261 | On time 8:25 AM Brussels-Midi | 16h04 | 12:29 AM Budapest Keleti | 2 transfers | |
ICE 15 · ICE 1229 · REX 7799 · ARV 1331 | On time 10:25 AM Brussels-Midi | 21h07 | 7:32 AM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 5 transfers | |
ICE 15 · ICE 1229 · REX 7799 · ARV 1331 | On time 10:25 AM Brussels-Midi | 21h24 | 7:49 AM Budapest-Deli | 6 transfers | |
ICE 315 · ICE 611 · RJ 263 · REX 7799 | On time 12:25 PM Brussels-Midi | 19h07 | 7:32 AM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 7 transfers | |
ICE 315 · ICE 611 · RJ 263 · REX 7799 | On time 12:25 PM Brussels-Midi | 19h24 | 7:49 AM Budapest-Deli | 8 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Brussels to Budapest run on average 3 times per day, taking around 13h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $157 (€126) but you can travel from only $31 (€25) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 23:35. The fastest train covers the 701 miles (1129 km) distance in 13h 37m.
Distance 701 miles (1129 km) |
Average train duration 13h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $157 (€126) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 13h 37m |
First train 12:30 AM |
Last train 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 42 days |
Discover the best of Budapest — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Budapest trip today.
One of Central Europe’s major art museums, with Old Masters, Egyptian antiquities, and European collections. Especially worthwhile for classical art lovers.
A powerful museum on Hungary’s fascist and communist periods, housed in a former secret police building. It is one of the city’s most discussed historical museums.
The national history museum of Hungary, covering archaeology, medieval history, and key events in the country’s past. A strong introduction to Hungarian culture and statehood.
Budapest’s most atmospheric historic quarter, filled with cobbled streets, viewpoints, and major monuments. It is ideal for slow walks, photography, and evening views.
A monumental square at the end of Andrássy Avenue, known for its statues of Hungarian leaders and ceremonial scale. It is among the city’s most visited public spaces.
A green island in the Danube popular for walking, running, gardens, and relaxed river views. It is especially loved by locals for outdoor time.
Hungary’s iconic paprika-rich soup with beef, potatoes, carrots, and csipetke dumplings. It is one of the most traditional dishes to try in Budapest.
A slow-cooked meat stew seasoned with onion and sweet paprika, usually served with nokedli. It is a classic home-style Hungarian comfort dish.
Tender chicken in a creamy paprika sauce, often served with nokedli. It is one of the best-known Hungarian main courses.
A well-known traditional restaurant serving Hungarian classics such as gulyás, paprikash, and stuffed cabbage in a cozy, old-style setting.
A long-established family restaurant blending Hungarian and Jewish-Hungarian traditions, known for excellent soups, stews, and warm service.
A Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant reinterpreting Hungarian flavors with refined technique and seasonal ingredients.
Moderate by European capital standards. Food, transit, and attractions are fairly priced; central hotels cost more.
Service may be included. If not, tip 10% in restaurants for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips are appreciated in bars and for hotel staff.
Official public transport app
Budapest Keleti -> Deák Ferenc tér, Budapest
Traveling from Brussels to Budapest offers a scenic and comfortable journey, with train connections provided by Deutsche Bahn. The route allows you to experience the beautiful landscapes of Europe while enjoying modern amenities on board. With multiple daily departures, passengers can easily plan their trip between these two cities, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers alike.
The train journey from Brussels to Budapest takes approximately 13 hours and 54 minutes, with a total travel time of about 1 hour and 55 minutes for connections. There are no direct trains available on this route, requiring at least one transfer during the trip.
The first daily train journey from Brussels departs at 06:23, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the vibrant city of Budapest. The last departure is scheduled for 19:55, allowing visitors a full day of sightseeing before heading back or continuing their journey.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Brussels and Budapest is €23. The average ticket price typically hovers around €70, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities.
Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has stood as a symbol of Hungary's royal heritage since the 13th century. Its significance lies not only in its stunning architecture but also in its role as the historical seat of Hungarian kings and now houses several museums that showcase the nation’s rich history. Unique features include its breathtaking panoramic views over Budapest and the intricate Baroque design that captivates visitors from around the world.
The Parliament Building is one of Europe’s oldest legislative buildings and an architectural masterpiece completed in 1904, reflecting Hungary's national pride. This iconic structure holds immense significance as it symbolizes democracy and governance while housing important state functions like sessions of parliament. Visitors are often awed by its unique Gothic Revival style, adorned with ornate details including over 88 statues and a magnificent dome that dominates Budapest's skyline.
The Chain Bridge was completed in 1849 to connect Buda and Pest across the Danube River, marking a pivotal moment for urban development in Hungary. It stands out not just for its engineering brilliance—being one of Europe's first suspension bridges—but also for representing unity between two historically distinct cities. As you walk across this landmark bridge today, you'll appreciate both its historical importance during times of revolution and peace along with spectacular views framing your journey through Budapest.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brussels 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.

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