- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Important collection of modern and contemporary art near the cathedral, including Pop Art and post-war works. A staple for art-focused visitors.
Cheapest price
£53
Average price
£143
Fastest journey
11 h 59 m
Average duration
12 h 4 m
Trains per day
39
Distance
956 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Budapest to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Budapest to Cologne will cost around £143 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £53.
To travel from Budapest to Cologne you need to make at least 2 changes.
IC 876 · EC 148 · RJX 19972 · ICE 888
IC 876 · EC 148 · RJX 19972 · ICE 888
EC 148 · RJX 19972 · ICE 822+
79404
EC 148 · RJX 19972 · ICE 822+
79404
IC 876 · EC 148 · RJX 19972 · ICE 822
EC 140+
RJX19976+
ICE 116 · ICE 912
EC 142+
RJX19916+
EC 114+
ICE 910
RJX19912+
ICE 118 · ICE 224
EC 140+
RJX19976+
ICE 116 · ICE 912
EC 342+
RJX 262+
ICE 564 · ICE 216Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Budapest to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £45. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 32m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £45, and a flight costs an average of £62.
Distance: 956 km
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£107 Average Price | £225 Average Price | £66 Average Price Cheapest |
13h 9m Average total duration 12h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 32m Average total duration Fastest 2h 32m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 17h 26m Average total duration 16h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.3 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.9 - 5.7kg CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 2.4kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The table below shows live departures for Budapest to Cologne trains for today, Saturday 22 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
EC 146+ RJX19970+ RJ 110+ ICE 698 | Delayed 14:20 Budapest Keleti | 15h24 | 4:15 4:15Cologne Hbf | 5 changes | |
IC 866 · EC 146 · RJX 19970 · RJ 110 | Delayed 14:35 Budapest-Deli | 15h09 | 4:15 4:15Cologne Hbf | 5 changes | |
EC 146 · RJX 19970 · RJ 110 · ICE 698 | Delayed 14:55 Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 14h49 | 4:15 4:15Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
EC 146+ RJX 68+ ICE 618+ IC 744 | 14:55 Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 15h15 | 6:10 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
EC 146+ RJX 68+ ICE 618+ IC 744 | 14:55 Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 15h09 | 6:04 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
EC 146+ RJX19970+ RJ 110+ ICE 698 | Delayed 14:55 Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 14h49 | 4:15 4:15Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
RJX 68+ RJ 854+ NJ 40490+ DB S3 | 15:30 Budapest Keleti | 14h40 | 6:10 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
RJX 68+ ICE 618 | 15:30 Budapest Keleti | 14h40 | 6:10 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
RJX 68 · ICE 618 | 15:30 Budapest Keleti | 14h40 | 6:10 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
E 846 · RJX 68 · ICE 2518 | On time 15:35 Budapest-Deli | 14h35 | 6:10 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
E 846 · RJX 68 · ICE 618 | 15:35 Budapest-Deli | 14h35 | 6:10 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
EC 148+ RJX19972 · RE5 · RB87 | On time 16:30 Budapest Keleti | 16h35 | 9:05 Cologne Hbf | 6 changes | |
EC 148+ RJX19972 · RE5+ ICE 614 | 16:30 Budapest Keleti | 17h35 | 10:05 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
EC 148 · RJX 19972+ 79404+ ICE 614 | 16:30 Budapest Keleti | 17h35 | 10:05 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
EC 148 · RJX 19972+ 79404+ 57002 | On time 16:30 Budapest Keleti | 16h35 | 9:05 Cologne Hbf | 6 changes | |
IC 876 · EC 148 · RJX 19972+ 79404 | 16:35 Budapest-Deli | 17h30 | 10:05 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
IC 876 · EC 148 · RJX 19972+ 79404 | On time 16:35 Budapest-Deli | 16h30 | 9:05 Cologne Hbf | 7 changes | |
IC 876 · EC 148 · RJX 19972+ 79404 | On time 16:35 Budapest-Deli | 17h31 | 10:06 Cologne Hbf | 6 changes | |
IC 876 · EC 148 · RJX 19972+ 79404 | On time 16:35 Budapest-Deli | 16h30 | 9:05 Cologne Hbf | 7 changes | |
IC 876 · EC 148 · RJX 19972+ 79404 | On time 16:35 Budapest-Deli | 17h31 | 10:06 Cologne Hbf | 6 changes | |
IC 876 · EC 148 · RJX 19972+ 79404 | 16:35 Budapest-Deli | 17h30 | 10:05 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
| Sunday 23 August | |||||
R 4980 · R 9910 · REX 7605 · RJX 260 | On time 1:25 Budapest-Deli | 14h40 | 16:05 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
R 4980 · R 9910 · REX 7605 · RJX 260 | 1:25 Budapest-Deli | 15h57 | 17:22 Cologne Hbf | 6 changes | |
ER 62+ EC 1218+ ICE 916+ DB S19 | 1:25 Budapest-Deli | 15h14 | 16:39 Cologne Hbf | 5 changes | |
ER 62+ EC 1218+ ICE 916+ R 4980 | 1:25 Budapest-Deli | 15h04 | 16:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4 changes | |
ER 62+ EC 1218+ ICE 626+ REX 64 | 1:25 Budapest-Deli | 15h54 | 17:19 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
EC 342 · RJX 262 · ICE 564 · ICE 216 | On time 5:30 Budapest Keleti | 12h10 | 17:40 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
EC 342 · RJX 262 · ICE 516 | On time 5:30 Budapest Keleti | 12h35 | 18:05 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
EC 342 · RJX 262 · ICE 516 · IC 2041 | On time 5:30 Budapest Keleti | 13h36 | 19:06 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
EC 342+ RJX 262+ ICE 564 · ICE 216 | On time 5:30 Budapest Keleti | 12h10 | 17:40 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
EC 342+ RJX 262+ ICE 516 | On time 5:30 Budapest Keleti | 12h35 | 18:05 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
RJX19912+ ICE 118 · ICE 224 | 6:40 Budapest Keleti | 12h03 | 18:43 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
RJX19912+ ICE 118 | 6:40 Budapest Keleti | 12h14 | 18:54 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
EC 140 · RJX 19976 · ICE 116 · ICE 318 | On time 8:30 Budapest Keleti | 13h09 | 21:39 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
EC 140+ RJX19976+ ICE 116 · ICE 912 | 8:30 Budapest Keleti | 12h09 | 20:39 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
EC 140+ RJX19976+ ICE 116 · ICE 912 | 8:30 Budapest Keleti | 11h59 | 20:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3 changes | |
RJX19976+ ICE 116 · ICE 318+ EC 140 | 8:30 Budapest Keleti | 13h09 | 21:39 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
RJX 62+ ICE 512+ IC 642+ EC 140 | 8:30 Budapest Keleti | 13h35 | 22:05 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
E 1852 · EC 140 · RJX 19976 · ICE 116 | On time 8:40 Budapest-Deli | 12h59 | 21:39 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
E 1852 · EC 140 · RJX 19976 · ICE 116 | 8:40 Budapest-Deli | 13h32 | 22:12 Cologne Hbf | 6 changes | |
RJX 62+ ICE 910+ EC 114+ IC 644 | 9:30 Budapest Keleti | 13h00 | 22:30 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
RJX 62+ ICE 512 | 9:30 Budapest Keleti | 12h35 | 22:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
EC 142+ RJX19916+ EC 114+ ICE 910 | 10:30 Budapest Keleti | 12h00 | 22:30 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
EC 142+ RJX 64+ ICE 510+ IC 646 | 10:30 Budapest Keleti | 13h40 | 0:10 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
RJX 64+ ICE 510 | 11:30 Budapest Keleti | 12h40 | 0:10 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Budapest to Cologne run on average 15 times per day, taking around 12h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £47 but you can travel from only £45 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 956 km distance in 11h 49m.
Distance 956 km |
Average train duration 12h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price £47 |
Trains per day 15 |
Fastest train 11h 49m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Important collection of modern and contemporary art near the cathedral, including Pop Art and post-war works. A staple for art-focused visitors.
Archaeological museum built around Roman remains, especially the Dionysus mosaic. Excellent for understanding Cologne’s Roman origins.
Major art museum with medieval painting, sculpture and applied arts. A strong choice for seeing Cologne’s artistic heritage in one place.
Historic old town lanes and squares by the Rhine, packed with colourful houses, churches and viewpoints. Ideal for a classic Cologne stroll.
Long Rhine promenade with bridge, cathedral and river views. Popular for walking, photography and watching boats pass through the city centre.
Lively square in the old town framed by historic buildings and museums. A useful base for sightseeing and one of Cologne’s best-known public spaces.
Rye bread with butter, cheese, ham or sausage, traditionally served in Cologne breweries as a simple local snack with Kölsch.
Hearty dish of black pudding with fried onions and mashed potatoes, a Rhineland classic closely associated with Cologne home cooking.
Slow-cooked horsemeat in a sweet-sour raisin sauce, a historic Rhineland speciality still served in a few traditional Cologne restaurants.
Classic Brauhaus serving Päffgen Kölsch and Rhineland favourites in a bustling, wood-panelled setting popular with locals.
Traditional brewery venue by Heumarkt with house Kölsch and dependable regional cooking in a spacious historic hall.
Long-established restaurant for refined German and Rhineland cooking, with a more formal atmosphere than a typical Brauhaus.
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak periods, but dining and public transport are broadly manageable for most city-break budgets.
Service is often included, but it is usual to round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés if service was good.
Official public transport app
Cologne Hbf -> Neumarkt, Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Budapest to Cologne 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 Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Budapest to Cologne trains use the Budapest Keleti to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Budapest and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Budapest Keleti is 3 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
Budapest Keleti has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Rosenstein Restaurant, Huszar Restaurant
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Budapest Keleti. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Budapest Keleti. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Budapest Keleti: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Budapest Keleti: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest Keleti: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Hungaria City Center, Baross City Hotel, Royal Park Boutique Hotel.
Budapest-Déli is 1 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
Budapest-Déli has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: Déli Terasz Söröző, Ibrahim török büfé, Vagon Etterem, Fornetti, Trio pizza, Turkish Döner KEBAB, Déli Mosoly, Balatonexpressz Étkezőkocsi, Club D One, Lokomotív Falatozó
ATMs are aTM machines are located on the ground floor inside the main hall.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:00-10:00, 10:20-14:00, 14:25- 17:35. Information desks are located in the passenger hall of the train station, next to the international ticket offices.
Luggage storage is located in the passenger hall, approaching the entrance near the international checkout to the left.
Available at Budapest-Déli: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Budapest-Déli: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest-Déli: There are some accessible features including ramps and elevators.
Nearby hotels include Mercure Budapest Castle Hill, Christina Residence Budapest, ibis Budapest Castle Hill.
Budapest-Kelenföld is 3 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
Budapest-Kelenföld has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Etele Plaza, KFC Etele Plaza
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Budapest-Kelenföld. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Budapest-Kelenföld. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Griff, Hotel Ventura, Hotel Berlin.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Messe/Deutz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need