Route Comparison
Vienna to Budapest: Travel Options & Verdict
Distance: 245 km • Center-to-center journey comparison.
Decision First
Our definitive verdict
Quick Answer & Recommendation
Best Overall
train
Optimal balance of time, price & comfort
Cheapest Option
bus
For strict backpacker budgets
Fastest Practical
train
Center-to-center elapsed time
ÖBB / MÁV Railjet trains connect Wien Hbf and Budapest-Keleti in 2 hours 40 minutes for €19 to €35. RegioJet and FlixBus buses cost €9 to €15.
Side-by-Side Transport Options
Verified benchmark rates including station and airport overheads.
Swipe the table horizontally to compare every option.
| Transport Mode | Operator | Duration | Typical Price | Stations / Airports | Key Booking Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| bus Direct | FlixBus / RegioJet | 2h 50m | €9.00 - €18.00 |
Dep: Wien Erdberg / Hbf
Arr: Budapest Népliget / Kelenföld
|
Leaves frequently all day; very cheap booking. Fare source |
| train Direct | ÖBB / MÁV Railjet | 2h 40m | €19.00 - €38.00 |
Dep: Wien Hauptbahnhof
Arr: Budapest-Keleti
|
Book early on oebb.at or mavcsoport.hu for SparSchiene discounts. Fare source |
Prices reflect advance bookings and typical peak variances.
Traveling in the opposite direction?
Budapest → Vienna options are mirror schedules.