- Must visit
National Museum
Prague’s main museum on Wenceslas Square, known for its grand Neo-Renaissance building and broad natural history, science, and history collections.
Cheapest price
$30
Average price
$90
Fastest journey
6 h 53 m
Average duration
6 h 53 m
Trains per day
27
Distance
444 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Budapest to Prague is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Budapest to Prague will cost around $90 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.
Of the 27 trains that leave Budapest for Prague on Wed, Jul 08, 21 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 08 the direct trains cover the 444 km distance in an average of 6 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 53 m .
On Wed, Jul 08 the slowest trains will take 6 h 53 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
RJ 1034 (Budapest -> Prague)
RJ 1036 (Budapest -> Prague)
RJ 1036 (Budapest -> Prague)
RJ 1034 (Budapest -> Prague)
RJ 1032 (Budapest -> Prague)
EC 278
EC 280
EC 278
RJ 274
rj 276Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Budapest to Prague among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 57m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a flight costs an average of $26.
Distance: 275 miles (444 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$50 Average price | $39 Average price Cheapest | $255 Average price | $146 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 33m Average total duration 7h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 5m Average total duration 6h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 57m Average total duration Fastest 3h 57m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | 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 Budapest to Prague:
A bus is $11 (€9) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Budapest to Prague costing on average $50 (€41).
A bus is $215 (€177) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Budapest to Prague costing on average $255 (€209).
Other travel options to Prague take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 35m.
Train takes on average 7h 3m.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with České dráhy, RegioJet a.s., ÖBB | Euro City (EC), EuroNight, ÖBB | Railjet, Hungarian Railways (MÁV).
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Budapest to Prague trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, July 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
EC 280 | 5:30 AM Budapest-Nyugati | 6h53 | 12:23 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
EC 280 | 5:30 AM Budapest-Nyugati | 6h53 | 12:23 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
EC 342 · rj 254 | 5:55 AM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 7h28 | 1:23 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 1 transfer | |
rj 174 | 7:30 AM Budapest-Nyugati | 6h56 | 2:26 PM Prague-Holešovice | 0 transfersDirect | |
RJ 174 | 7:30 AM Budapest-Nyugati | 6h56 | 2:26 PM Prague-Holešovice | 0 transfersDirect | |
RJ 1032 (Budapest -> Prague) | 7:58 AM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 6h58 | 2:56 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
RJ 1032 (Budapest -> Prague) | 7:58 AM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 7h12 | 3:10 PM Praha-Zahradní Město | 0 transfersDirect | |
EC 130 · rj 252 | 8:12 AM Budapest-Nyugati | 7h11 | 3:23 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 1 transfer | |
EC 278 | 9:30 AM Budapest-Nyugati | 6h53 | 4:23 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
EC 278 | 9:30 AM Budapest-Nyugati | 6h53 | 4:23 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
rjx 62 · rj 250 | 9:55 AM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 7h31 | 5:26 PM Prague-Holešovice | 1 transfer | |
rj 276 | 11:30 AM Budapest-Nyugati | 6h53 | 6:23 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
RJ 276 | 11:30 AM Budapest-Nyugati | 6h53 | 6:23 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
rjx 64 · rj 56 | 11:55 AM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 7h28 | 7:23 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 1 transfer | |
RJ 1034 (Budapest -> Prague) | 11:58 AM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 7h12 | 7:10 PM Praha-Zahradní Město | 0 transfersDirect | |
RJ 1034 (Budapest -> Prague) | 11:58 AM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 7h02 | 7:00 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
rj 274 | 1:30 PM Budapest-Nyugati | 6h53 | 8:23 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
RJ 274 | 1:30 PM Budapest-Nyugati | 6h53 | 8:23 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
rjx 66 · rj 54 | 1:55 PM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 7h28 | 9:23 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 1 transfer | |
RJ 1036 (Budapest -> Prague) | 2:58 PM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 7h00 | 9:58 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
RJ 1036 (Budapest -> Prague) | 2:58 PM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 7h12 | 10:10 PM Praha-Zahradní Město | 0 transfersDirect | |
rj 272 | 3:30 PM Budapest-Nyugati | 6h53 | 10:23 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
RJ 272 | 3:30 PM Budapest-Nyugati | 6h53 | 10:23 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
rjx 68 · rj 52 | 3:55 PM Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 7h37 | 11:32 PM Prague hlavní nádraží | 1 transfer | |
rj 270 | 5:30 PM Budapest-Nyugati | 6h55 | 12:25 AM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
RJ 270 | 5:30 PM Budapest-Nyugati | 6h55 | 12:25 AM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
EN 40476 | 7:30 PM Budapest-Nyugati | 7h39 | 3:09 AM Prague hlavní nádraží | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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.
By Simon Andersen
Getting between the Hungarian and Czech capitals has never been easier, thanks to multiple daily trains. Most are run in cooperation between the Czech, Slovak, and Hungarian railways, branded EuroCity. However, in my opinion, the more interesting and better option is to go with RegioJet, a private operator running up to three direct trains from Budapest to Prague a day. In this article, I’ll describe what my experience was like, what to watch out for along the route, and my best tips for taking advantage of RegioJet’s great onboard service.

A RegioJet train with its distinctive yellow livery, at Budapest-Déli station.
RegioJet offers three daily departures from Budapest-Déli to Prague. State railway operators, including MÁV, ZSSK, and ČD, run EuroCity trains in cooperation every two hours, as well as an overnight train with beds. Day trains take about 7 hours, while night trains take slightly longer. These leave from Budapest-Nyugati station. The key difference: RegioJet trains leave from Budapest-Déli and route via Vienna. EuroCity trains leave from Budapest-Nyugati and route via Bratislava. You can compare all Budapest to Prague travel options on Omio, including buses and flights.
RegioJet uses a mix of new and older carriages depending on the class you choose (more on this later). I traveled in Standard Class, which I think offers the best value for money. Just show up at the station a few minutes before departure. Then head onboard and sit in your assigned seat—no need to show a ticket unless asked. Staff can see that you’re in the right seat via their tablets. Simple and stress-free!
RegioJet trains depart from both Budapest-Déli and Budapest-Kelenföld. Both stations are on the metro network and easily accessible from the city center. EuroCity trains depart from Budapest-Nyugati, about a 10–15 minute walk from the center, with good tram and metro connections.
All trains arrive at Praha hlavní nádraží (Prague Central Station), located just 10–15 minutes walk from the historic center and with direct metro and tram connections.
RegioJet runs 3 daily trains: Leaving Budapest at: 07:45 11:45 14:45 Travel time: just under 7 hours EuroCity trains run about every 2 hours, offering more flexibility.
RegioJet offers 4 seating classes: Low Cost – from €16.90 Older carriages, basic seating, A/C, free Wi-Fi, water, and a paid onboard menu. No guaranteed power outlets. Standard – from €21.90 Newer carriages with power outlets, free Wi-Fi, seatback entertainment, newspapers, free coffee and water. Standard offers the best value in my opinion! Relax – from €25.90 Same perks as Standard, but with more spacious seating and a dedicated attendant. Business – from €30.90 Same seating as Relax, but in private 4-seat compartments with complimentary Prosecco and a dedicated host. Regiojet has an excellent and very affordable onboard menu! In Relax and Business, you order from your attendant. While in Low Cost and Standard, you order via the RegioJet app and get the food delivered straight to your seat. Try the apple crumble cake—it’s my favorite thing on the menu and is very affordable.

Comfortable seating in the Standard Class carriage on a RegioJet train.
Tickets range from €20 to €40, depending on demand. Cheap tickets are often available close to departure, making Regiojet a great deal at short notice! My trip cost:
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €21.90 |
| Food & drinks | €1 |
| Travel to departure station | € |
| Travel from arrival station | € |
| Total | € 22.9 |
RegioJet offers an affordable and reliable way to travel between Budapest and Prague. I found the Standard Class carriages very comfortable, and being able to enjoy free coffee and cheap snacks throughout the journey made the seven-hour journey pass quickly. I’d definitely pick RegioJet over the EuroCity train again. But no matter which operator you choose, you can compare trains and book everything easily on Omio.

Trains from Budapest to Prague run on average 17 times per day, taking around 7h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $17 (€14) if you book in advance.
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 275 miles (444 km) distance in 6h 53m.
Distance 275 miles (444 km) |
Average train duration 7h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 (€14) |
Trains per day 17 |
Direct trains 11 |
Fastest train 6h 53m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 91 days |
Discover the best of Prague — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Prague trip today.
Prague’s main museum on Wenceslas Square, known for its grand Neo-Renaissance building and broad natural history, science, and history collections.
One of Prague’s most significant museum institutions, preserving Jewish history through synagogues, exhibitions, and the Old Jewish Cemetery.
A leading city gallery in a Gothic landmark on Old Town Square, hosting major modern and contemporary art exhibitions.
Prague’s historic heart, surrounded by major monuments and lively at all times of day; essential for first-time visitors.
A picturesque Baroque district below Prague Castle with quiet lanes, embassies, gardens, and classic city charm.
A major boulevard-like square central to modern Czech history, shopping, and the city’s urban energy.
Marinated beef sirloin with a creamy root-vegetable sauce, bread dumplings, cranberry, and whipped cream. It is one of the most iconic Czech Sunday and festive dishes.
Roast pork served with bread dumplings and braised sauerkraut. This is a classic Czech pub and home-style meal strongly associated with Bohemian cooking.
Czech goulash is a rich beef stew seasoned with onion and paprika, usually served with bread dumplings. It is a staple of traditional Prague taverns and beer halls.
A Michelin-starred restaurant offering contemporary Czech fine dining with seasonal ingredients, tasting menus, and a sophisticated modern atmosphere.
An elegant grand café offering refined Czech and Central European dishes, excellent breakfasts, and classic pastries in a beautifully restored interior.
A well-regarded Old Town restaurant focused on updated Czech cuisine, including svíčková and goulash, in a polished but approachable setting.
Moderate for Europe: beer, transit, and casual meals are good value; central hotels cost more.
About 10% in restaurants for good service, often rounded up. Tip taxis modestly by rounding up. No tip is expected for fast food, but small change is appreciated in cafés.
Official public transport app
Prague hlavní nádraží, Prague -> Old Town Square, Prague
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Budapest to Prague 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 Prague, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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