- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts
Hungary’s top fine arts museum, with major European works from antiquity to the 20th century. Ideal for classic painting, sculpture, and old masters.
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Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Budapest by bus or flight
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Budapest
Italy
Hungary
Trains from Cologne to Budapest run on average 3 times per day, taking around 11h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $4 (€3) if you book in advance.
The fastest train covers the 451 miles (727 km) distance in 11h 28m.
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 451 miles (727 km) |
Average train duration 11h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $4 (€3) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 11h 28m |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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: ÖBB from Cologne to Budapest trainsÖBB trains will get you between Cologne and Budapest from $4 (€3). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
ÖBB
About
ÖBB is Austria’s national railway company, offering a comprehensive network of train services across the country and to neighboring nations. Its fleet includes high-speed InterCity Express (ICE) trains for the fastest and most comfortable journeys, EuroCity (EC) trains for international connections, InterCity (IC) trains for reliable long-distance travel, and Regional Express (REX) trains for frequent local stops. Ticket types include Standard Ticket, Comfort-Ticket, ÖBB Sparschiene-Ticket, and ÖBB Sparschiene Comfort-Ticket, along with options for single, return, and group travel. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and food and beverage services. Popular routes include Vienna–Salzburg, Vienna–Innsbruck, and Vienna–Graz
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB Duration
11h 28m
Cheapest ÖBB Price
$4 (€3)
ÖBB frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (on long-distance trains), bistro service, at-seat service in first class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for €3 in second class, included in first class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance, and special seating areas
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare), guide dogs free
Quiet zone
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.
- Recommended
Ludwig Museum
Leading contemporary art museum with strong Hungarian and international shows. Worth visiting for bold exhibitions in a landmark modern building.
- Recommended
Hungarian National Museum
National museum covering Hungarian history, archaeology, and statehood. A classic stop for understanding the country beyond Budapest’s landmarks.
- Must visit
Castle District
UNESCO-listed castle quarter of cobbled streets, courtyards, and viewpoints. Best for atmosphere, heritage walks, and some of Budapest’s finest vistas.
- Must visit
Andrássy Avenue
Elegant Andrássy Avenue links the center with Heroes’ Square through palaces and shops. A grand boulevard ideal for walking and historic city views.
- Must visit
City Park
Large central park with boating lake, baths, museums, and promenades. A versatile area for families, relaxed walks, and major city attractions.
Gulyás
A rich paprika beef soup with potatoes and vegetables. It is Hungary’s signature comfort dish and a staple in homes and traditional inns.
Pörkölt
Slow-cooked beef stew with lots of onion and paprika, usually served with nokedli. A classic example of deep Hungarian paprika flavor.
- Gluten-free
Halászlé
River fish soup, often carp-based, cooked with hot paprika. It is especially traditional along the Danube and at festive family meals.
Rosenstein Vendéglő
Refined Hungarian dining in a historic building, with updated national classics and strong wine service in a formal atmosphere.
Stand Restaurant
Michelin-starred fine dining with a modern tasting menu rooted in Hungarian ingredients. Stylish, intimate, and one of Budapest’s top tables.
Gettó Gulyás
Traditional Hungarian restaurant known for goulash, pörkölt, and live music. Warm, old-style atmosphere near the city center.
Hungarian forint (Ft)
Moderate for Europe: stays and dining are cheaper than in Western capitals, while central hotels and tourist areas cost more. Transit is good value.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 3,500-5,500 Ft for street food or fast food.
- Mid-range
- 6,000-10,000 Ft per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 20,000 Ft+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- 900-1,500 Ft for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
About 10% is common in restaurants if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis and leave small change or round up at cafes.
BudapestGO
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 450 Ft
- Day pass
- 2 500 Ft
To the city center
Budapest Keleti Railway Station -> Deák Ferenc tér
- Distance
- 2.5 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Validate paper tickets before boarding or at metro entrances; mobile tickets in BudapestGO must be activated before travel.
- Contactless bank card payment is available in BudapestGO and at many ticket machines, but not generally on board buses, trams, or metro.
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.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Budapest can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $4 (€3), while the average price is around $4 (€3).
The train from Cologne to Budapest takes 11h 28m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Budapest is 451 miles (727 km).
There is no high speed train available from Cologne to Budapest.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Budapest.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Budapest.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Budapest is Cologne station, which connects to Budapest-Kelenfoeld.
The train journey from Cologne to Budapest offers scenic views, particularly through the Rhine Valley with its castles and vineyards, and the picturesque landscapes of Austria and Hungary.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Budapest.
Popular day trips by train from Budapest include Győr, Hegyeshalom, Mosonmagyaróvár, Nickelsdorf, Csorna.
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 to Budapest
Most Cologne to Budapest trains use the Cologne to Budapest-Kelenföld station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Budapest train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Budapest
Which Cologne station do trains to Budapest leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Budapest leave from Cologne. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cologne city centre at 25033 Cologne, Province of Brescia, Italy.
Cologne25033 Cologne, Province of Brescia, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Cologne from Cologne city centre
TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6
Cologne train station facilities and services
Cologne has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cologne.
Which Budapest station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Budapest arrive at Budapest-Kelenföld. Budapest-Kelenföld is 2 miles (4 km) from Budapest city centre.
Budapest-KelenföldEtele tér, 1115 Budapest, Hungary+36 1 3 49 49 49
City-centre transport
Getting to Budapest-Kelenföld from Budapest city centre
Budapest-Kelenföld is 3 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainIc, 968, 1818, 1852, Re, 9006, 9056, 9066, 9702, 9704, 9706, 9708, 9792, 9794, 9796, Ir, 19712, 19714, 19716, 19718, 19722, 19724, 19726 · 6m · $1 · every ~18 min
Rjx · 13m · $13
Bus139 · 17m · $1 · every ~11 min
770 · 19m · $1
Tram19 · 23m · $1 · every ~9 min
SubwayM4 · 8m · $1 · every ~28 min
Budapest-Kelenföld train station facilities and services
Budapest-Kelenföld has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Etele Plaza, KFC Etele Plaza
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Budapest-Kelenföld. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Budapest-Kelenföld. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Griff, Hotel Ventura, Hotel Berlin.
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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