- 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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The cheapest and fastest trains from Interlaken to Budapest
Showing times and prices for Jul 16
Cheapest price
$96
Average price
$159
Fastest journey
12 h 46 m
Average duration
12 h 56 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
850 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Interlaken to Budapest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Interlaken to Budapest will cost around $159 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $96.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Interlaken for Budapest on Thu, Jul 16, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 16 the direct trains cover the 850 km distance in an average of 12 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 12 h 46 m .
On Thu, Jul 16 the slowest trains will take 13 h 15 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.
10:33 AM12h46Interlaken11:19 PMBudapest$961One-way0 transfers- 8:04 AM13h15Interlaken9:19 PMBudapest$1891One-way0 transfers
- 9:33 AM12h46Interlaken10:19 PMBudapest$1921One-way0 transfers
- 10:33 AM12h46Interlaken11:19 PMBudapest$961One-way0 transfers
- 9:33 AM12h46Interlaken10:19 PMBudapest$1921One-way0 transfers
- 8:04 AM13h15Interlaken9:19 PMBudapest$1891One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Interlaken to Budapest
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Interlaken to Budapest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 38m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $29, and a train costs an average of $86.
Distance: 528 miles (850 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$180 Average price | $125 Average price Cheapest | $127 Average price | $316 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 11m Average total duration 12h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 38m Average total duration Fastest 1h 38m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 30h 19m Average total duration 29h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Interlaken to Budapest is a flight with an average price of $125 (€103).
This is compared to other travel options from Interlaken to Budapest:
A flight is $2 (€2) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Interlaken to Budapest costing on average $127 (€105).
A flight is $55 (€45) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Interlaken to Budapest costing on average $180 (€148).
The fastest way to travel from Interlaken to Budapest is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 38m.
Other travel options to Budapest take longer:
Train takes on average 12h 41m.
Bus takes on average 29h 49m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Interlaken and Budapest including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Interlaken to Budapest among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $180 (€148) compared to roughly $316 (€259) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $136 (€112). The journey takes 12h 41m versus 11h 20m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Interlaken to Budapest train times
The table below shows live departures for Interlaken to Budapest trains for today, Wednesday, July 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 964 · IC 813 · EC 191 · RJX 261 | On time 9:04 AM Interlaken West | 15h25 | 12:29 AM Budapest Keleti | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Interlaken 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
Jul 16
Jul 16
Fri
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Jul 17
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Jul 18
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Jul 19
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Jul 22
Jul 22
Why should you book Interlaken to Budapest trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB offer trains services from Interlaken to Budapest.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Interlaken 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 ÖBB to find the best option for your trip from Interlaken 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 Interlaken 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 Interlaken to Budapest.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Interlaken to Budapest
Switzerland
Hungary
Trains from Interlaken to Budapest run on average 5 times per day, taking around 12h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $86 (€70) but you can travel from only $29 (€24) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 01:32, the last at 23:35. The fastest train covers the 528 miles (850 km) distance in 12h 29m.
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 $29 (€24)
Distance 528 miles (850 km) |
Average train duration 12h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $86 (€70) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 12h 29m |
First train 1:32 AM |
Last train 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 84 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
Flight from $29 (€24)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB from Interlaken to Budapest trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB trains will get you between Interlaken and Budapest from $29 (€24). 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 29m
Cheapest Price
$86 (€70)
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
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
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 Interlaken to Budapest
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Interlaken 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 Interlaken to Budapest can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $86 (€70), while the average price is around $180 (€148).
The train from Interlaken to Budapest takes 12h 29m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Interlaken to Budapest is 528 miles (850 km).
The first train from Interlaken to Budapest leaves at 1:32 AM.
The last train from Interlaken to Budapest leaves at 11:35 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Interlaken to Budapest.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Interlaken to Budapest.
The train station in Interlaken that goes to Budapest is Interlaken West, which connects to Budapest Keleti.
The cheapest way to get from Interlaken to Budapest is by flight, with a cost of around $29 (€24).
The train journey from Interlaken to Budapest is indeed scenic, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, charming Swiss villages, lush green landscapes, and picturesque lakes before transitioning to the rolling hills and quaint towns of Austria and Hungary.
A day trip from Interlaken to Budapest is not feasible as the journey takes 12h 29m one way. Trains operate 4 times per day and the distance is 528 miles (850 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 Interlaken to Budapest.
Since both Interlaken 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 Interlaken 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.
More options for your journey from Interlaken to Budapest
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Budapest and Interlaken
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