- Must visit
Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
The city’s leading archaeology museum, presenting Macedonian gold, sculpture, and finds that explain Thessaloniki’s ancient history.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Budapest to Thessaloniki
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Budapest to Thessaloniki among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $125 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 1m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the bus is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.8 - 2.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $125, while a flight costs an average of $544.
Distance: 512 miles (824 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$544 Average price | $125 Average price Cheapest | $290 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 1m Average total duration Fastest 4h 1m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 28h 23m Average total duration 27h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
2.5 - 4.9kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 2.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Budapest to Thessaloniki is a bus with an average price of $125.
This is compared to other travel options from Budapest to Thessaloniki:
A bus is $420 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Budapest to Thessaloniki costing on average $544.
The fastest way to travel from Budapest to Thessaloniki is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 1m.
Other travel options to Thessaloniki take longer:
Bus takes on average 27h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Budapest and Thessaloniki including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Budapest to Thessaloniki among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Budapest to Thessaloniki by bus or flight
Compare 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 Budapest to Thessaloniki
Hungary
Greece
Take a train from Budapest to Thessaloniki and enjoy the approximately 512 miles (824 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $26
Distance 512 miles (824 km) |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $26
Complete guide to Thessaloniki
Things to do in Thessaloniki
Discover the best of Thessaloniki — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Thessaloniki trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Byzantine Culture
Major museum of Byzantine art with icons, mosaics, and everyday objects that illuminate a millennium of regional culture.
- Recommended
Museum of the White Tower
Housed in the White Tower, this museum traces Thessaloniki’s urban story through multimedia displays inside the landmark itself.
- Must visit
Nea Paralia
Signature waterfront promenade stretching along the sea, ideal for walking, cycling, sunset views, and seeing modern Thessaloniki at leisure.
- Must visit
Aristotelous Square
The city’s central square and social heart, opening to the sea and lined with landmark architecture and major public events.
- Must visit
Ano Poli
Historic upper town with traditional houses, winding lanes, and some of the best panoramic views in Thessaloniki.
- Vegetarian
Bougatsa
Bougatsa is a flaky phyllo pastry filled with custard, cheese, or minced meat. Thessaloniki is especially famous for its breakfast bougatsa tradition.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Koulouri Thessalonikis
Koulouri Thessalonikis is a sesame-crusted bread ring sold by street vendors. It is a classic local breakfast snack closely tied to the city's daily food culture.
- Vegetarian
Trigona Panoramatos
Trigona Panoramatos are crisp syrupy phyllo triangles filled with rich custard cream. They originated in the Thessaloniki area and are a beloved local dessert.
Molyvos
Refined modern Greek restaurant known for creative plates, quality seafood, and a polished but relaxed setting in central Thessaloniki.
Bantis
Historic pastry shop famed for classic bougatsa. A must for breakfast or dessert and one of the city's best-known traditional sweet stops.
Palati
Long-standing ladadika taverna serving meze, grilled dishes, and local wine in a lively traditional atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Greece: rooms, meals, and buses are reasonable, with lower dining and transit costs than many Western European city breaks.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants for good service; round up taxi fares; small change is fine at cafes.
FAQs: Trains from Budapest to Thessaloniki
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Budapest to Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The distance by train from Budapest to Thessaloniki is 512 miles (824 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Budapest to Thessaloniki.
The cheapest way to get from Budapest to Thessaloniki is by flight, with a cost of around $26.
The train journey from Budapest to Thessaloniki offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of Hungary and the mountainous regions in Serbia and North Macedonia, providing travelers with a glimpse of rural life, rolling hills, and lush greenery.
In Thessaloniki, you can explore the Museum of Byzantine Culture to see Byzantine art and artifacts, visit the Thessaloniki Concert Hall for music and performances, and enjoy the vibrant local markets. For sightseeing, the White Tower offers panoramic views, while the Rotunda of Galerius and the Church of Agios Dimitrios provide historical insights. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, discover the nightlife in the lively Ladadika district, and explore the old town area of Ano Poli for stunning views and traditional architecture. Don't miss Aristotelous Square for its impressive architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Three days in Thessaloniki is ideal to explore its rich history, vibrant culture, and enjoy local cuisine.
No, you cannot take the train from Budapest to Thessaloniki.
Since both Budapest and Thessaloniki 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.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Budapest to Thessaloniki 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.
Greece uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cash is often preferred in smaller shops, local markets, and remote areas, while cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.
In Thessaloniki, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transportation, and popular tourist sites. Scams involving overpriced taxis or unlicensed drivers are common, so using official taxi services or pre-booked transportation is advised. Travelers should also be alert to distraction techniques used by scammers in busy spots. Overall, maintaining awareness of belongings and using reputable transportation options helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Budapest to Thessaloniki
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Thessaloniki and Budapest
Most popular train connections to Thessaloniki
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