- Must visit
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon
Major fine arts museum in a former abbey, with strong collections from antiquity to modern art. A core cultural stop in Lyon.
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Budapest to Lyon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $71. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 7m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.1 - 2.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $71, and a train costs an average of $393.
Distance: 683 miles (1100 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$393 Average price | $116 Average price Cheapest | $256 Average price | $493 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
19h 3m Average total duration 18h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 23h 12m Average total duration 22h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 7m Average total duration Fastest 3h 7m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 13h 59m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.3 - 6.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Budapest to Lyon:
A bus is $140 (€115) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Budapest to Lyon costing on average $256 (€210).
A bus is $277 (€228) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Budapest to Lyon costing on average $393 (€322).
Other travel options to Lyon take longer:
Train takes on average 18h 33m.
Bus takes on average 22h 42m.
Tickets start at around $393 (€322) compared to roughly $493 (€405) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $100 (€82). The journey takes 18h 33m versus 13h 59m 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.
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 Budapest to Lyon run on average 1 times per day, taking around 18h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $393 (€322) but you can travel from only $71 (€58) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:25, the last at 23:25. The fastest train covers the 683 miles (1100 km) distance in 18h 33m.
Distance 683 miles (1100 km) |
Average train duration 18h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $393 (€322) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 18h 33m |
First train 1:25 AM |
Last train 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 84 days |
Discover the best of Lyon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lyon trip today.
Major fine arts museum in a former abbey, with strong collections from antiquity to modern art. A core cultural stop in Lyon.
Museum of cinema miniatures and film props in Vieux Lyon. Popular for detailed sets, special-effects history, and family-friendly exhibits.
Excellent free natural history and ethnography museum with fossils, animals, and global cultures. A strong local favorite, especially for families.
Renaissance quarter with cobbled lanes, traboules, courtyards, and major monuments. Essential for atmosphere, history, and walking exploration.
Central peninsula between the Rhône and Saône, packed with elegant streets, squares, shopping, and many of Lyon’s classic city views.
Historic silk-workers’ hill district with stairways, murals, markets, and hidden passageways. Great for local character and city panoramas.
Pike dumplings in a rich crayfish sauce. A Lyon classic from traditional bouchons, prized for its delicate fish texture and luxurious sauce.
Crisp salad of frisée, bacon lardons, croutons, and a poached egg. A staple Lyonnaise bistro dish that reflects the city's hearty cooking style.
Slow-cooked onions with vinegar, often served warm or chilled. This old Lyonnais side dish is traditional in bouchons and pairs well with charcuterie.
Refined dining by Paul Bocuse, known for polished French cuisine and iconic Lyon dishes in an elegant, historic dining room.
Well-known traditional bouchon in Vieux Lyon, praised for generous Lyonnais specialties and a lively old-city atmosphere.
Historic bouchon near Place Bellecour serving quenelles, salade lyonnaise, and classic regional fare in a warm traditional setting.
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while public transport is good value for visitors.
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Round up taxi fares; small change is fine in cafes.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Budapest to Lyon 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 Lyon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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