- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts
Hungary’s leading fine arts museum, known for European paintings, Egyptian antiquities and strong temporary exhibitions on Heroes’ Square.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Budapest
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 17 Sept
Cheapest price on 17 Sept
£130
Average ticket price on 17 Sept
£241
Fastest journey on 17 Sept
20 h 34 m
Average journey duration on 17 Sept
21 h 23 m
Trains on 17 Sept
2
Distance
682 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna to Budapest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna to Budapest will cost around £241 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £130.
Fast trains
To travel from Bologna to Budapest you need to make at least 2 changes.
15:2122h11Bologna13:32Budapest£1301One-way2 changes
22:5420h34Bologna19:28Budapest£3521One-way3 changes
- 22:5420h34Bologna19:28Budapest£3521One-way3 changes
- 15:2122h11Bologna13:32Budapest£1301One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Bologna to Budapest
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Budapest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £54 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 25m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the coach is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.7 - 1.7kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £54, while a train costs an average of £219.
Distance: 682 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£219 Average Price | £141 Average Price | £54 Average Price Cheapest | £80 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 8m Average total duration 10h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 25m Average total duration Fastest 3h 25m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 10h 50m Average total duration 10h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 2.0 - 4.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.7 - 1.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  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 Bologna to Budapest is a coach with an average price of £54.
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Budapest:
A coach is £87 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna to Budapest costing on average £141.
A coach is £165 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna to Budapest costing on average £219.
The fastest way to travel from Bologna to Budapest is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 25m.
Other travel options to Budapest take longer:
Coach takes on average 10h 20m.
Train takes on average 10h 38m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna and Budapest including taking a train, coach and flight.
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 £219 compared to roughly £80 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-138.66. The journey takes 10h 38m versus 8h 29m 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
Bologna to Budapest train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Budapest trains for today, Wednesday 16 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22:54 Bologna | 20h34 | 19:28 Budapest | 3 changes | |
| Thursday 17 September | |||||
| 15:21 Bologna | 22h11 | 13:32 Budapest | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bologna to Budapest by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach 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 Bologna to Budapest
Italy
Hungary
Trains from Bologna to Budapest run on average 1 times per day, taking around 10h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £130 but you can travel from only £17 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 18:10. The fastest train covers the 682 km distance in 20h 34m.
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 £17
Distance 682 km |
Average train duration 10h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price £130 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 20h 34m |
First train 0:20 |
Last train 18:10 |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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 £17
Train companies: ÖBB, Italo, ÖBB | Nightjet from Bologna to Budapest trainsÖBB, Italo, ÖBB | Nightjet trains will get you between Bologna and Budapest from £17. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
Italo
About
Italo is Italy’s private high-speed train service operated by Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori (NTV), connecting major cities such as Rome, Milan, Naples, Florence, Turin, Bologna, and Salerno. Its fleet includes the Italo AGV 575, capable of speeds up to 186 mph (300 km/h), and the eco-friendly Italo EVO, which reaches up to 150 mph (250 km/h). Passengers can choose from four classes — Smart, Comfort, Prima, and Club Executive — all offering modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, reclining leather seats, footrests, bathrooms, snack machines, and Italo Live entertainment with movies, music, and games. Italo offers three fare types — Low Cost, Economy, and Flex — providing different levels of price and flexibility. Popular routes include Rome–Milan, Rome–Florence, and Milan–Turin, making Italo a fast, comfortable, and convenient way to travel around Italy.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Italo Duration
22h 7m
Cheapest Italo Price
£130
Italo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage (max 55x35x25cm) and 1 piece of luggage (max 75x53x30cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar service available in most trains with drinks and light refreshments. Welcome service in Prima and Club Executive classes
Seat reservation
Included in Prima and Club Executive. Optional extra cost in Smart and Comfort
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
ÖBB | Nightjet
About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB | Nightjet Duration
20h 34m
Cheapest ÖBB | Nightjet Price
£352
ÖBB | Nightjet frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. 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
Budapest History Museum
Museum inside Buda Castle covering Budapest’s past from medieval remains to modern urban history, with notable views from the building.
- Recommended
Hungarian National Gallery
Major collection of Hungarian art from medieval works to the 20th century, set in palace wings with a calm atmosphere and city views.
- Must visit
Andrássy út
Long avenue linking the centre with City Park. Grand facades, embassies and historic mansions make it one of Budapest’s classic walks.
- Must visit
Fisherman's Bastion
Popular lookout terrace in the Castle District with neo-Romanesque towers and memorable panoramas over the Danube and Pest skyline.
- Recommended
Margaret Island
Leafy island park in the Danube with running paths, gardens, fountains and ruins. A relaxing break from the busy centre.
- Gluten-free
Gulyásleves
Rich beef soup with paprika, onion and vegetables. It is Hungary’s signature comfort dish and a classic on Budapest menus.
Pörkölt
Slow-cooked beef stew heavy with sweet paprika and onions, traditionally served with nokedli. A cornerstone of Hungarian home cooking.
- Vegetarian
Lángos
Deep-fried flatbread, often topped with garlic, sour cream and cheese. It is one of Budapest’s most familiar street foods.
Rosenstein Vendéglő
Long-running Jewish-Hungarian restaurant serving hearty local dishes in a warm, nostalgic dining room.
For Sale Pub
Traditional restaurant near the Great Market Hall specialising in paprika-rich Hungarian classics in a cosy, old-style setting.
Halászbástya Restaurant
Elegant riverside restaurant serving classic Hungarian dishes with polished service and grand Danube views.
Hungarian forint (Ft)
Budget to moderate for Europe. Public transport is cheap, meals are reasonable, and hotels often cost less than in Vienna or Prague, though central stays and nightlife can add up.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 3,500-6,000 Ft for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- 6,000-12,000 Ft per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 20,000+ Ft per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- 800-1,500 Ft for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included, so check the bill first. If not, tip around 10% in restaurants for good service. Taxi fares are usually rounded up slightly; cafés often get small change.
BudapestGO
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 500 Ft
- Day pass
- 2,500 Ft
To the city centre
Budapest Keleti railway station -> Deák Ferenc tér, Budapest
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Validate paper tickets before travel; on the metro, validate at the station entrance, and on trams or buses validate on boarding.
- BudapestGO sells mobile tickets and passes. Bankcard payment is available at BKK ticket machines, and Pay&GO contactless bankcard ticket purchase is available on all metro lines.
FAQs: Bologna to Budapest train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna 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 cost of a train ticket from Bologna to Budapest can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £130, while the average price tends to be around £219.
The train from Bologna to Budapest takes 20h 34m and runs once a day.
The train distance from Bologna to Budapest is 682 km.
The first train from Bologna to Budapest leaves at 0:20.
The last train from Bologna to Budapest departs at 18:10.
Trains from Bologna to Budapest run approximately 1 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Bologna to Budapest.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Bologna to Budapest.
To get from Bologna to Budapest, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
Yes, there is a night train from Bologna to Budapest.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna to Budapest is by flight, costing approximately £17.
Booking trains from Bologna to Budapest in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Bologna to Budapest offers a mix of scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of northern Italy and the rolling hills of Austria and Slovenia. Travellers can enjoy glimpses of charming small towns, lush greenery, and mountainous backdrops along the route.
A day trip from Bologna to Budapest is not feasible due to the journey duration of 20h 34m. The distance is 682 km with a frequency of 2 per day for trains.
In Budapest, you can unwind at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of Europe's largest thermal bath complexes. Explore the vibrant Great Market Hall for local foods and crafts, or take a scenic cruise on the Danube River for unique views of the city's landmarks. Visit the House of Terror Museum to learn about Hungary's history under fascist and communist regimes, and enjoy a performance at the stunning Hungarian State Opera House. Don't miss the best sights: Buda Castle offers panoramic views and houses the Budapest History Museum, while the Parliament Building and Fisherman's Bastion provide breathtaking architecture and views. St. Stephen's Basilica offers a grand interior and panoramic dome views, and Heroes' Square is noted for its iconic statues and the Millennium Monument.
Three to four days in Budapest is typically sufficient to explore major attractions such as Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament Building, Széchenyi Thermal Bath, and to enjoy the city's vibrant culinary and cultural scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Budapest.
Most popular train connections from Bologna
More options for your journey from Bologna to Budapest
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Budapest and Bologna
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