- Must visit
Slovak National Gallery
Modern and contemporary art museum in a riverside modernist building, known for temporary exhibitions and strong Slovak art context.
Cheapest price on Oct 30
$33
Average ticket price on Oct 30
$45
Fastest journey on Oct 30
9 h 49 m
Average journey duration on Oct 30
13 h 53 m
Trains on Oct 30
2
Distance
161 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Budapest to Bratislava is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Budapest to Bratislava will cost around $45 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.
It's difficult to get from Budapest to Bratislava without transferring at least 2 times.
RJ 1068 (Budapest -> Vienna) · (Vienna -> Brno) · RJ 1041 (Prague -> Bratislava)
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RJ 1034 (Budapest -> Prague) · RJ 1047 (Prague -> Bratislava) · (Vienna -> Prague)
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RJ 1034 (Budapest -> Prague) · RJ 1047 (Prague -> Bratislava) · (Vienna -> Prague)
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RJ 1068 (Budapest -> Vienna) · (Vienna -> Brno) · RJ 1041 (Prague -> Bratislava)
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Trains from Budapest to Bratislava run on average 1 times per day, taking around 3h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $64 (€54) but you can travel from only $10 (€8) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:00, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 100 miles (161 km) distance in 2h 50m.
Distance 100 miles (161 km) |
Average train duration 3h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $64 (€54) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 2h 50m |
First train 5:00 AM |
Last train 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Budapest to Bratislava.
The table below shows live departures for Budapest to Bratislava trains for today, Thursday, October 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
RJ 1034 (Budapest -> Prague) · RJ 1047 (Prague -> Bratislava) · (Vienna -> Prague) | 11:56 AM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 9h51 | 9:47 PM Bratislava hlavná stanica | 2 transfers | |
RJ 1068 (Budapest -> Vienna) · RJ 1041 (Prague -> Bratislava) · (Vienna -> Brno) | 5:56 PM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 17h58 | 11:54 AM Bratislava hlavná stanica | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
By Simon Andersen
Every one to two hours, a comfortable EuroCity train links the capitals of Hungary and Slovakia, traveling along the Danube River for much of the journey. With a journey time of around two hours, the train is an ideal and scenic way to get between Budapest and Bratislava. In this article, I’ll share my experience and give you some tips to make the most of your trip.

A EuroCity train with a locomotive and carriages at Budapest Nyugati station.
Budapest and Bratislava are about 200 kilometers apart. The cities are connected by a scenic rail route that follows the Danube River through a beautiful valley up to the Slovak border. Buses from Budapest also cover the journey within a similar time, but they take a far less scenic road. So, if you want to enjoy the views, I strongly recommend taking the train instead!
Catching the train between Hungary and Slovakia is a relaxing and hassle-free experience. There are no formal check-in procedures or complicated ticketing systems. You just hop on, pick a seat, and enjoy the ride. The train follows the Danube River past Vác and Szob and arrives in Bratislava just over 2 hours later. Simple, scenic, and comfortable!
All trains to Bratislava depart from Budapest Nyugati, one of the city's four main stations (the others being Keleti, Déli, and Kelenföld). Bratislava Main Station, by contrast, is a bit dark and rundown, located outside the city center. Head straight for the frequent tram to get downtown quickly.
Nyugati’s historic building was designed by the Eiffel Company (yes, the same behind the Eiffel Tower in Paris), so it's worth arriving a few minutes early to admire the architecture.
EuroCity trains run every 1 to 2 hours, taking about 2 hours and 15 minutes. They are jointly operated by MÁV (Hungarian Railways) and ZSSK (Slovak Railways). Most trains continue beyond Bratislava to cities like Prague, Warsaw, or Hamburg. The final destination is what will be shown on the departure board, so don't be worried if it's one of these.
The rolling stock varies by departure, with trains made up of Hungarian, Slovak, or Czech carriages. Most seats have Wi-Fi, which worked reasonably well for me, as well as power outlets and air conditioning. You may, however, occasionally find one or two older cars without these amenities. Since seat reservations aren’t mandatory, feel free to move to another empty seat in a different carriage if you’d like a better spot. Traveling with large or heavy luggage? Consider choosing one of the open, airline-style seated carriages, as the compartment carriages don’t have luggage racks except above the seats. I took the 09:30 EC 278 to Prague via Bratislava, formed of comfy Slovakian carriages. First Class featured a new carriage with plush leather seats. Second Class offered a mix of various open-plan and compartment seating. The train has a bistro car serving freshly prepared meals in the onboard kitchen. Snacks and drinks are also available, which is super handy if you miss your hotel breakfast before the 9:30 departure. I’ve tried the fried cheese onboard on a previous trip, a local delicacy, and it was very tasty! Tip: Sit on the left-hand side in the direction of travel to enjoy the best views of the Danube and Visegrád Castle near Vác. My train arrived in Bratislava around 12:00, about 10 minutes late. On this route, delays of 10–30 minutes are not unusual.

The interior of a Second Class carriage on a EuroCity train.
The cheapest fares are only sold via the official Slovakian or Hungarian railway channels: A special Second Class fare of €18.50 is always available and can be purchased at the station right up until departure. It’s also valid for a return journey, and surprisingly, it’s often the cheapest one-way option when booking at short notice. Advance booking one-way fares: From €10.50 (Second Class) and €19 (First Class). Optional seat reservation: ~€3 (worth it during peak times and holidays). My trip breakdown:
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €21.50 |
| Food & drinks | €1 |
| Travel to departure station | €18.5 |
| Travel from arrival station | €1 |
| Total | € 42 |
The train from Budapest to Bratislava is a scenic, affordable, and comfortable alternative to the bus. With beautiful views, good onboard amenities, and frequent departures, it’s the best way to travel between these two Central European capitals. What are you waiting for? Plan your journey on Omio, where you can compare schedules and book your seat in just a few clicks.

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Discover the best of Bratislava — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bratislava trip today.
Modern and contemporary art museum in a riverside modernist building, known for temporary exhibitions and strong Slovak art context.
Slovakia’s leading national museum presents archaeology, history, and cultural collections inside Bratislava Castle.
Main city museum documenting Bratislava’s urban past through diverse exhibits in the Old Town’s historic core.
Bratislava’s compact historic center is packed with medieval lanes, landmarks, courtyards, and lively public spaces for walking.
A broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, cycling, and Danube views, especially pleasant in warmer months.
The city’s main square features historic facades, seasonal markets, and easy access to key Old Town sights.
Potato dumplings mixed with sheep cheese and topped with bacon. It is Slovakia’s best-known national dish and a staple of traditional mountain cuisine.
Thin potato pancakes often seasoned with garlic and marjoram. A beloved Slovak comfort food, commonly served at markets and casual eateries.
Breaded and fried Edam-style cheese, usually served with fries or potatoes and tartar sauce. A classic meat-free dish in Slovak pubs and canteens.
Established Bratislava restaurant focused on Slovak and Austro-Hungarian traditions, with seasonal dishes and a more intimate, upscale atmosphere.
Modern Slovak fine dining near the old town, known for refined regional ingredients, tasting menus, and polished service in an elegant setting.
Traditional Slovak restaurant with a rustic interior, generous portions, and reliable classics such as halušky, soups, and roast meat dishes.
Moderate for Central Europe: hotels and dining are usually below Vienna, while transit is cheap and many sights are low cost.
Service may be included, but 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up in cafes and for taxis if service was good.
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Bratislava.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Budapest to Bratislava 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 Bratislava, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Budapest to Bratislava trains use the Budapest-Nyugati to Bratislava Hlavná Stanica station pair, with some services arriving at Bratislava-Nové Mesto. Use this guide to compare Budapest and Bratislava train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Budapest-Nyugati is 1 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
Budapest-Nyugati 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 options include: Két Szerecsen, Menza Restaurant
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Budapest-Nyugati. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Budapest-Nyugati. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Budapest-Nyugati: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Budapest-Nyugati: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest-Nyugati: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Parlament, Radisson Blu Béke Hotel, Hilton Budapest City.
Budapest-Kelenföld is 3 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Restaurant Etele Plaza, KFC Etele Plaza
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Budapest-Kelenföld. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Budapest-Kelenföld. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Griff, Hotel Ventura, Hotel Berlin.
Budapest-Déli is 1 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
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 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
ATMs are aTM machines are located on the ground floor inside the main hall.
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 storage is located in the passenger hall, approaching the entrance near the international checkout to the left.
Available at Budapest-Déli: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Budapest-Déli: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest-Déli: There are some accessible features including ramps and elevators.
Nearby hotels include Mercure Budapest Castle Hill, Christina Residence Budapest, ibis Budapest Castle Hill.
Bratislava Hlavná Stanica is 1 km from Bratislava city centre. Public transport options include:
Bratislava Hlavná Stanica 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 options include: Fach Restaurant, Savoy Restaurant
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Matyšák, Mercure Bratislava Centrum Hotel, Loft Hotel Bratislava.
Bratislava-Nové Mesto is 3 km from Bratislava city centre. Public transport options include:
Bratislava-Nové Mesto has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Bratislava-Nové Mesto.
ATMs are available at Bratislava-Nové Mesto.
Available at Bratislava-Nové Mesto: Parking, WC.
Available at Bratislava-Nové Mesto: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bratislava-Nové Mesto.
Bratislava-Vajnory is 9 km from Bratislava city centre. Public transport options include:
Bratislava-Vajnory has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Bratislava-Vajnory.
ATMs are available at Bratislava-Vajnory.
Available at Bratislava-Vajnory: Parking, WC.
Available at Bratislava-Vajnory: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bratislava-Vajnory.
Check train stations information for Budapest and Bratislava, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need