- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest
Showing times and prices for May 31
Cheapest price
$86
Average price
$119
Fastest journey
12 h 10 m
Average duration
13 h 44 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
943 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest will cost around $119 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $86.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Cologne Bonn Airport for Budapest on Sun, May 31, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 31 the direct trains cover the 943 km distance in an average of 13 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 12 h 10 m .
On Sun, May 31 the slowest trains will take 14 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.
7:23 AM13h56Cologne Bonn Airport9:19 PMBudapest$861One-way0 transfers- 8:23 AM13h56Cologne Bonn Airport10:19 PMBudapest$1001One-way0 transfers
- 6:26 AM14h53Cologne Bonn Airport9:19 PMBudapest$1371One-way0 transfers
- 7:09 AM12h10Cologne Bonn Airport7:19 PMBudapest$1541One-way0 transfers
- 7:09 AM12h10Cologne Bonn Airport7:19 PMBudapest$1541One-way0 transfers
- 8:23 AM13h56Cologne Bonn Airport10:19 PMBudapest$1001One-way0 transfers
- 7:23 AM13h56Cologne Bonn Airport9:19 PMBudapest$861One-way0 transfers
- 6:26 AM14h53Cologne Bonn Airport9:19 PMBudapest$1371One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $60. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 51m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $60, and a flight costs an average of $147.
Distance: 585 miles (943 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$118 Average price | $349 Average price | $74 Average price Cheapest | $249 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 6m Average total duration 10h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 51m Average total duration Fastest 1h 51m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 18h 45m Average total duration 18h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest is a bus with an average price of $74 (€60).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest:
A bus is $44 (€35) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest costing on average $118 (€95).
A bus is $274 (€221) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest costing on average $349 (€281).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 51m.
Other travel options to Budapest take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 36m.
Bus takes on average 18h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne Bonn Airport and Budapest including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 6m faster (10h 36m by train vs 10h 42m by car) and roughly $131 (€105) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($118 (€95) vs $249 (€200)). 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.
Live departures
Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest trains for today, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:23 AM Cologne Bonn Airport | 13h56 | 11:19 PM Budapest | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:23 AM Cologne Bonn Airport | 11h56 | 10:19 PM Budapest | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, May 31 | |||||
| 6:26 AM Cologne Bonn Airport | 14h53 | 9:19 PM Budapest | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:09 AM Cologne Bonn Airport | 12h10 | 7:19 PM Budapest | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:23 AM Cologne Bonn Airport | 13h56 | 9:19 PM Budapest | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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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May 31
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Why should you book Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest
Germany
Hungary
Trains from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest run on average 5 times per day, taking around 10h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $58 (€46) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:23, the last at 10:23. The fastest train covers the 585 miles (943 km) distance in 11h 56m.
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
Distance 585 miles (943 km) |
Average train duration 10h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $58 (€46) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 11h 56m |
First train 6:23 AM |
Last train 10:23 AM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Cologne Bonn Airport and Budapest from $58 (€46). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 56m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€46)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 53m
Cheapest Price
$280 (€225)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to Budapest
Things to do in Budapest
Discover the best of Budapest — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Budapest trip today.
- Must visit
House of Terror Museum
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.
- Recommended
Hungarian National Museum
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.
- Must visit
Castle District
Budapest’s most atmospheric historic quarter, filled with cobbled streets, viewpoints, and major monuments. It is ideal for slow walks, photography, and evening views.
- Must visit
Heroes' Square
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.
- Must visit
Margaret Island
A green island in the Danube popular for walking, running, gardens, and relaxed river views. It is especially loved by locals for outdoor time.
Gulyás
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.
Pörkölt
A slow-cooked meat stew seasoned with onion and sweet paprika, usually served with nokedli. It is a classic home-style Hungarian comfort dish.
Chicken Paprikash
Tender chicken in a creamy paprika sauce, often served with nokedli. It is one of the best-known Hungarian main courses.
Hungarikum Bisztró
A well-known traditional restaurant serving Hungarian classics such as gulyás, paprikash, and stuffed cabbage in a cozy, old-style setting.
Rosenstein Vendéglő
A long-established family restaurant blending Hungarian and Jewish-Hungarian traditions, known for excellent soups, stews, and warm service.
Stand Restaurant
A Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant reinterpreting Hungarian flavors with refined technique and seasonal ingredients.
Hungarian Forint
Moderate by European capital standards. Food, transit, and attractions are fairly priced; central hotels cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- HUF 3,000-5,500 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- HUF 6,500-12,000 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- HUF 20,000+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- HUF 800-1,500 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
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.
BudapestGO
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 450 HUF
- Day pass
- 2,500 HUF
To the city center
Budapest Keleti -> Deák Ferenc tér, Budapest
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Validate your paper ticket before boarding or entering the metro; mobile tickets in BudapestGO must also be activated before travel.
- You can buy tickets and passes in BudapestGO and at BKK machines, and card payment is widely accepted at ticket machines.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne Bonn Airport 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.
Train ticket prices from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $58 (€46), while the average price is around $118 (€95).
The train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest takes 11h 56m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest is 585 miles (943 km).
The first train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest leaves at 6:23 AM.
The last train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest leaves at 10:23 AM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest is by train, with a cost of around $58 (€46).
The train journey from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest offers a mix of scenic views, including picturesque landscapes along the Rhine River, rolling hills, and charming small towns in Germany. As the train continues into Hungary, travelers can enjoy expansive countryside vistas and glimpses of the Danube River, making it a pleasant and visually appealing route.
A day trip from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest is not feasible as the journey duration is 11h 56m and the distance is 585 miles (943 km). There are 6 trips per day for trains.
In Budapest, you can relax at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, explore the vibrant Great Market Hall, take a scenic cruise on the Danube River for unique views of landmarks, visit the House of Terror Museum, and enjoy a performance at the Hungarian State Opera House. Don't miss sights like Buda Castle, the Parliament Building, Fisherman's Bastion, St. Stephen's Basilica, and Heroes' Square for their stunning architecture and historical significance.
Three to four days are generally recommended to explore Budapest’s main attractions, including the historic Buda Castle, thermal baths, and vibrant ruin bars.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest.
Since both Cologne Bonn Airport and Budapest 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.
Popular day trips by train from Budapest include Győr, Hegyeshalom, Mosonmagyaróvár, Nickelsdorf, Csorna.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest 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.
The currency used in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Travelers often find it convenient to use cards in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is recommended for smaller shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Budapest, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, markets, and popular tourist sites. Overcharging and unofficial taxi scams can occur, so it's best to use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps. Be wary of street vendors and people offering unsolicited help or friendship, as these can sometimes lead to distraction theft or pressure to pay for services. Always keep personal belongings secure and stay alert in busy locations.
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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest
Cologne
Budapest
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 km
Number of platforms
18Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7, accessible from Kerepesi út.
Dining
- Rosenstein Restaurant
- Huszar Restaurant
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- HUF 200
Hotel
- Hotel Hungaria City Center
- Baross City Hotel
- Royal Park Boutique Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-6 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: platforms 7-13 for regional trains
- Hall 3: platforms 14-18 for suburban trains
Public transit options for Budapest Keleti
- Metro: Line M2, Line M4
- Bus: Several lines available
- Tram: Line 24
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 kmNumber of platforms
16Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, with access from Etele tér.
Dining
- Restaurant Etele Plaza
- KFC Etele Plaza
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- HUF 200
Hotel
- Hotel Griff
- Hotel Ventura
- Hotel Berlin
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-8 for international and domestic long-distance trains
- Hall 2: regional and suburban train platforms
- Hall 3: Metro and tram connections
Public transit options for Budapest-Kelenföld
- Metro: Line M4
- Tram: Line 1, Line 19, Line 49
- Bus: Several lines available
Amenities at train station
LockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 06:00-10:00, 10:20-14:00, 14:25- 17:35
Distance to city center
1 kmLockers
- Located in the passenger hall, approaching the entrance near the international checkout to the left.
Dining
- Déli Terasz Söröző
- Ibrahim török büfé
- Vagon Etterem
- Fornetti
- Trio pizza
- Turkish Döner KEBAB
- Déli Mosoly
- Balatonexpressz Étkezőkocsi
- Club D One
- Lokomotív Falatozó
Accessibility
- There are some accessible features including ramps and elevators.
Hotel
- Mercure Budapest Castle Hill
- Christina Residence Budapest
- ibis Budapest Castle Hill
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 06:00-10:00, 10:20-14:00, 14:25- 17:35
Information Desk
- Located in the passenger hall of the train station, next to the international ticket offices.
Public transit options for Budapest-Déli
- Metro lines: M2 (red)
- Tram lines: 17, 56, 56A, 59, 59A, 59B, 61
- Bus lines: 21, 21A, 39, 102, 139, 140, 140A, N960, N990
- Train lines: IC, IR, S (10, 12, 30, 34, 35, 40, 42), Z30
Most popular train connections from Cologne Bonn Airport
More options for your journey from Cologne Bonn Airport to Budapest
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Budapest and Cologne Bonn Airport
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