- 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 Riga to Budapest
Showing times and prices for Aug 10
Cheapest price
CHF72
Average price
CHF72
Fastest journey
2 d 2 h 54 m
Average duration
2 d 2 h 54 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
1105 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Riga to Budapest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Riga to Budapest will cost around CHF72 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF72.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Riga to Budapest without transferring at least 3 times.
4:55 PM50h54Riga7:49 PMBudapestCHF721One-way3 transfers
- 4:55 PM50h54Riga7:49 PMBudapestCHF721One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Riga to Budapest
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Riga to Budapest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from CHF72. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 56m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.1 - 2.8kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of CHF72, and a flight costs an average of CHF59.
Distance: 686 miles (1105 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
CHF72 Average price Cheapest | CHF191 Average price | CHF87 Average price | CHF250 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
51h 24m Average total duration 50h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 56m Average total duration Fastest 2h 56m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 23h 28m Average total duration 22h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 3.3 - 6.6kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.8kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
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 Riga to Budapest is a train with an average price of CHF72.
This is compared to other travel options from Riga to Budapest:
A train is CHF15 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Riga to Budapest costing on average CHF87.
A train is CHF120 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Riga to Budapest costing on average CHF191.
The fastest way to travel from Riga to Budapest is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 56m.
Other travel options to Budapest take longer:
Bus takes on average 22h 58m.
Train takes on average 50h 54m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Riga and Budapest including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Riga 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 CHF72 compared to roughly CHF250 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about CHF179. The journey takes 50h 54m versus 15h 24m 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
Riga to Budapest train times
The table below shows live departures for Riga to Budapest trains for today, Sunday, August 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:55 PM Riga | 50h54 | 7:49 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 Riga 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Riga to Budapest
Latvia
Hungary
Trains from Riga to Budapest run on average 1 times per day, taking around 50h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF72 but you can travel from only CHF53 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 16:55, the last at 16:55. The fastest train covers the 686 miles (1105 km) distance in 50h 54m.
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 CHF53
Distance 686 miles (1105 km) |
Average train duration 50h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price CHF72 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 50h 54m |
First train 4:55 PM |
Last train 4:55 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 CHF53
Train companies: LTG Link from Riga to Budapest trainsLTG Link trains will get you between Riga and Budapest from CHF53. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
LTG Link
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
50h 54m
Cheapest Price
CHF72
LTG Link frequency
1 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.
- 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 Riga to Budapest
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Riga 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 Riga to Budapest can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at CHF72, while the average price is around CHF72.
The train from Riga to Budapest runs once a day and takes approximately 50h 54m.
The distance by train from Riga to Budapest is 686 miles (1105 km).
The first train from Riga to Budapest leaves at 4:55 PM.
The last train from Riga to Budapest leaves at 4:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Riga to Budapest.
There is no direct train service currently available from Riga to Budapest.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Riga to Budapest.
The cheapest way to get from Riga to Budapest is by bus, with a cost of around CHF53.
The train journey from Riga to Budapest is moderately scenic, offering views of diverse landscapes, including forests, rivers, and rural areas as it passes through Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Hungary.
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 Riga to Budapest.
Since both Riga 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 Riga 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.
Most popular train connections from Riga
More options for your journey from Riga to Budapest
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Budapest and Riga
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