4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Budapest
Cheapest price
$0
Average price
$226
Fastest journey
13 h 58 m
Average duration
17 h 44 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
727 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Budapest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Budapest without transferring at least 3 times.
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Budapest
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Budapest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from €51. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 40m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of €51, and a train costs an average of €185.
Distance: 451 miles (727 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
€185 Average price | €53 Average price Cheapest | €92 Average price |
18h 16m Average total duration 17h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration Fastest 1h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 19h 10m Average total duration 18h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Cologne to Budapest train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Budapest trains for today, Thursday, November 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:20 PM Koeln Hbf | 21h38 | 3:58 PM Budapest | 3 transfers | |
| Friday, November 7 | |||||
| 6:00 AM Köln Hbf | 13h58 | 7:58 PM Budapest | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Budapest by train, bus, or flight
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.
Nov 07
Nov 08
Nov 09
Nov 10
Nov 11
Nov 12
Nov 13
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Budapest
Italy
Hungary
Trains from Cologne to Budapest run on average 2 times per day, taking around 17h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $227 (€185) but you can travel from only $62 (€51) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 22:27. The fastest train covers the 451 miles (727 km) distance in 13h 58m.
Distance 451 miles (727 km) |
Average train duration 17h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $227 (€185) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 13h 58m |
First train 06:00 |
Last train 22:27 |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Budapest trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Budapest from $62 (€51). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Budapest
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne 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.
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Budapest
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Budapest and Cologne
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