- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts
One of Central Europe’s leading art museums, known for major collections of European old masters, antiquities, and temporary exhibitions on Heroes’ Square. A top choice for art lovers
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Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Madrid to Budapest
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Budapest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $53. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 54m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 2.0 - 4.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $53, and a bus costs an average of $113.
Distance: 1226 miles (1974 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$197 Average price Cheapest | $204 Average price | $575 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 54m Average total duration Fastest 3h 54m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 37h 50m Average total duration 37h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 24h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
5.9 - 11.8kg CO2 emissions | 2.0 - 4.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Madrid to Budapest is a flight with an average price of $197 (€161).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Budapest:
A flight is $8 (€6) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid to Budapest costing on average $204 (€168).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Budapest is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 54m.
Other travel options to Budapest take longer:
Bus takes on average 37h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Madrid and Budapest including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Budapest among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Budapest by bus or flight
Compare 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Budapest
Spain
Hungary
Take a train from Madrid to Budapest and enjoy the approximately 1226 miles (1974 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 13:18, the last at 13:18.
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 $53 (€43)
Distance 1226 miles (1974 km) |
First train 1:18 PM |
Last train 1:18 PM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 70 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 $53 (€43)
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
Hungarian National Gallery
Located inside Buda Castle, this museum focuses on Hungarian art from medieval altarpieces to modern works. The setting and panoramic terraces add to the visit
- Recommended
Hungarian National Museum
The National Museum presents Hungary’s history from prehistoric times to the modern era in a grand neoclassical building. It is one of the city’s core cultural institutions and a strong starting point
- Must visit
Castle Hill
Budapest’s most atmospheric historic quarter, filled with cobbled lanes, viewpoints, and landmark buildings. It is ideal for slow walks, photography, and classic city views
- Must visit
Heroes’ Square
A monumental square framed by major museums and dominated by the Millennium Monument. It is one of Budapest’s key ceremonial and photographic landmarks
- Must visit
Gellért Hill
A prominent hill with walking paths and sweeping panoramas over the Danube, bridges, and parliament. It remains one of the best outdoor viewpoints in Budapest
- Gluten-free
Gulyásleves
Hungary’s iconic goulash soup made with beef, paprika, potatoes, and vegetables. It is a classic Budapest comfort dish and a staple of traditional Hungarian cooking.
Pörkölt
A rich Hungarian meat stew slowly cooked with onions and paprika, often served with nokedli. It is a deeply traditional home-style dish found across Budapest.
Paprikás Csirke
Chicken braised in a creamy paprika sauce, usually served with dumplings. It showcases the famous Hungarian use of sweet paprika in a comforting classic.
Hungarikum Bisztró
A well-known traditional Hungarian restaurant popular for goulash, paprikash, and warm hospitality in a cozy, old-fashioned setting.
Rosenstein Vendéglő
A long-established family-run restaurant known for refined Hungarian and Jewish-Hungarian dishes, with a classic and welcoming atmosphere.
Gettó Gulyás
A popular casual spot specializing in stews, goulash, and other hearty Hungarian classics in the Jewish Quarter.
Hungarian Forint
Generally affordable for European city breaks. Food, transit, and sights are good value; central hotels cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- HUF 3,000-5,500 for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- HUF 6,000-12,000 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- HUF 25,000+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- HUF 900-1,500 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
A 10% service charge may be added in restaurants; if not, tip 10%. Round up taxis. Small tips are welcome in bars, cafés, salons, and for hotel help.
BudapestGO
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 450 HUF
- Day pass
- 2,500 HUF
To the city center
Budapest Keleti Railway Station, Budapest -> Deák Ferenc tér, Budapest
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Validate paper tickets before boarding or entering the metro; mobile tickets in BudapestGO must also be activated before travel.
- Card payment is available in BudapestGO and at most ticket machines, but onboard cash purchase is generally not available on metro services.
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Budapest
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid 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.
The distance by train from Madrid to Budapest is 1226 miles (1974 km).
The first train from Madrid to Budapest leaves at 1:18 PM.
The last train from Madrid to Budapest leaves at 1:18 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Budapest.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Budapest is by flight, with a cost of around $53 (€43).
The train journey from Madrid to Budapest offers diverse scenery, including the rolling landscapes of Spain, the picturesque Pyrenees, and the charming countryside of Southern France and Central Europe, providing a captivating travel experience.
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.
No, you cannot take the train from Madrid to Budapest.
Since both Madrid 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 Madrid 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 Madrid to Budapest
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Budapest and Madrid
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