Essen to Budapest train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC)

Thu, May 28
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Budapest

Showing times and prices for May 28

Cheapest price

$95

Average price

$155

Fastest journey

12 h 43 m

Average duration

13 h 20 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

972 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Budapest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Essen to Budapest will cost around $155 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $95.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Essen for Budapest on Thu, May 28, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, May 28 the direct trains cover the 972 km distance in an average of 13 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 12 h 43 m .

On Thu, May 28 the slowest trains will take 14 h 6 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:36 AM12h43
    Essen
    8:19 PMBudapest
    $951One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:03 AM13h16
    Essen
    7:19 PMBudapest
    $1281One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:03 AM13h16
    Essen
    8:19 PMBudapest
    $1411One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    9:00 AM13h19
    Essen
    10:19 PMBudapest
    $1701One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:00 AM14h19
    Essen
    9:19 PMBudapest
    $1741One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Essen to Budapest

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Budapest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $65. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 46m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $65, and a flight costs an average of $102.

Distance: 603 miles (972 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$153

Average price

$235

Average price

$93

Average price

Cheapest

$37

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

12h 51m

Average total duration

12h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 46m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 46m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

19h 55m

Average total duration

19h 25m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

12h 35m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.3 - 0.9kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

2.9 - 5.8kg

CO2 emissions

1.0 - 2.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

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.

The cheapest way to travel from Essen to Budapest is a bus with an average price of $93 (€75).

This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Budapest:

A bus is $60 (€49) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Budapest costing on average $153 (€124).

A bus is $142 (€114) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Budapest costing on average $235 (€189).

The fastest way to travel from Essen to Budapest is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 46m.

Other travel options to Budapest take longer:

Train takes on average 12h 21m.

Bus takes on average 19h 25m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Budapest including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Budapest among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 14m sooner (12h 21m by train vs 12h 35m by car). Tickets start at around $153 (€124) compared to roughly $37 (€30) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Essen to Budapest train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Budapest trains for tomorrow, Thursday, May 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn6:03 AM Essen
13h16
7:19 PM Budapest0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:00 AM Essen
14h19
9:19 PM Budapest0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:03 AM Essen
13h16
8:19 PM Budapest0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:13 AM Essen
14h06
9:19 PM Budapest0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:36 AM Essen
12h43
8:19 PM Budapest0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn9:00 AM Essen
13h19
10:19 PM Budapest0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Essen 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.

Thu
May 28
Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03

Why should you book Essen to Budapest trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Budapest.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen 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 Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Essen 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 Essen 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 Essen to Budapest.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Budapest

GermanyGermany
HungaryHungary
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Budapest run on average 15 times per day, taking around 12h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $73 (€59) but you can travel from only $65 (€52) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 01:25, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 603 miles (972 km) distance in 12h 26m.

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
Bus from $65 (€52)
Distance
603 miles (972 km)
Average train duration
12h 21m
Cheapest ticket price
$73 (€59)
Trains per day
15
Fastest train
12h 26m
First train
1:25 AM
Last train
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
42 days
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
Bus from $65 (€52)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Budapest trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Budapest from $65 (€52). 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
12h 26m
Cheapest Price
$73 (€59)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 26m
Cheapest Price
$348 (€281)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
2 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

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.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Essen to Budapest

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Essen to Budapest can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $73 (€59), while the average price is around $153 (€124).
The train from Essen to Budapest takes 12h 26m and runs 15 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Budapest is 603 miles (972 km).
The first train from Essen to Budapest leaves at 1:25 AM.
The last train from Essen to Budapest leaves at 11:45 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Budapest.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Budapest.
The train station in Essen that goes to Budapest is Essen Hbf, which connects to Budapest Keleti.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Budapest is by bus, with a cost of around $65 (€52).
The train journey from Essen to Budapest offers scenic views, especially when traveling through regions such as the Rhine Valley and the Austrian Alps, featuring picturesque landscapes, historical towns, and lush countryside.
A day trip from Essen to Budapest is not feasible as the journey takes 12h 26m. Trains run 19 times per day over a distance of 603 miles (972 km).
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 Essen to Budapest.
Since both Essen 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen 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 Essen to Budapest

Essen
Budapest
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your trip from Essen to Budapest.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
  • Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Kiepenkerl
  • Cafe Extrablatt
  • Tacos
Hotel
Hotel
  • Ambassador
  • Gästearpartment Dahl
  • WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
  • Motel One
Essen SüdWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Haus Wilmes
  • Mana Mana
  • Karawane
Hotel
Hotel
  • Webers
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Pizzeria Don Camillo
  • Lindos
  • Zur Platte
  • Arman Döner
Hotel
Hotel
  • McDreams

More options for your journey from Essen to Budapest

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