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The cheapest and fastest trains from Budapest to Essen
Showing times and prices for 20 Dec
Cheapest price
£51
Average price
£69
Fastest journey
12 h 22 m
Average duration
13 h 44 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
972 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Budapest to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Budapest to Essen will cost around £69 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £51.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Budapest for Essen every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 972 km distance in an average of 13 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 12 h 22 m .
The slowest trains will take 14 h 36 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
08:4014h36
Budapest23:16Essen
£511One-way
0 changes
07:4012h22
Budapest20:02Essen
£551One-way
0 changes
07:5513h04
Budapest20:59Essen
£641One-way
0 changes
08:5514h12
Budapest23:07Essen
£841One-way
0 changes
06:4014h26
Budapest21:06Essen
£921One-way
0 changes
07:4012h22
Budapest20:02Essen
£551One-way
0 changes
07:5513h04
Budapest20:59Essen
£641One-way
0 changes
08:5514h12
Budapest23:07Essen
£841One-way
0 changes
06:4014h26
Budapest21:06Essen
£921One-way
0 changes
08:4014h36
Budapest23:16Essen
£511One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Budapest to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Budapest to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £39. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 4m. 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 £39, and a flight costs an average of £53.
Distance: 972 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£106 Average Price | £142 Average Price | £70 Average Price Cheapest |
13h 13m Average total duration 12h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 4m Average total duration Fastest 2h 4m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 21h 12m Average total duration 20h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.3 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.9 - 5.8kg 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.
Live departures
Budapest to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Budapest to Essen trains for tomorrow, Saturday 20 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 23:14
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06:40 Budapest | 14h26 | 21:06 Essen | 0 changesdirect | |
| 07:40 Budapest | 12h22 | 20:02 Essen | 0 changesdirect | |
| 07:55 Budapest | 13h04 | 20:59 Essen | 0 changesdirect | |
| 08:40 Budapest | 14h36 | 23:16 Essen | 0 changesdirect | |
| 08:55 Budapest | 14h12 | 23:07 Essen | 0 changesdirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Budapest to Essen 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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20 Dec
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Budapest to Essen
Hungary
Germany
Trains from Budapest to Essen run on average 19 times per day, taking around 12h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £41 but you can travel from only £39 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:51. The fastest train covers the 972 km distance in 12h 7m.
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
Coach from £39
Distance 972 km |
Average train duration 12h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price £41 |
Trains per day 19 |
Fastest train 12h 7m |
First train 00:04 |
Last train 23:51 |
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
Coach from £39
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Railjet, Regiojet from Budapest to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Railjet, Regiojet trains will get you between Budapest and Essen from £39. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 7m
Cheapest Price
£51
Deutsche Bahn frequency
14 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
ÖBB | Railjet
About
ÖBB Railjet is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The Railjet trains are modern and spacious, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of Railjet trains: the Railjet Comfort, the Railjet Business, and the Railjet First Class. The Comfort class offers standard seating, while the Business class offers more spacious seating and complimentary drinks and snacks. The First Class offers the most luxurious experience, with extra-wide seats, complimentary meals, and access to a private lounge. The Railjet service operates on several popular routes, including Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station, and there are several types of tickets available, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. With its modern trains, comfortable seating, and convenient ticketing options, ÖBB Railjet is the perfect way to explore Austria.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
23h 3m
ÖBB | Railjet frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
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 (except on domestic routes), at-seat service in First Class, bistro service with snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Regiojet
About
RegioJet is a leading transport company in the Czech Republic, operating both buses and trains. For bus travel, ticket fare options include Low Cost, Standard, Fun & Relax, Relax, and Business. RegioJet also runs regional and long-distance train services, connecting cities across the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, and Hungary. Regional services, known as RegioJet Express, offer frequent departures, while long-distance RegioJet Comfort trains provide a more luxurious experience with comfortable seating, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Onboard amenities can include a café car, restaurant car, bar car, entertainment options, and power outlets. Popular routes include Prague to Brno, Prague to Ostrava, and Prague to Vienna, offering convenient connections within the Czech Republic and to neighboring countries.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
13h 0m
Cheapest Price
£135
Regiojet frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one large piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals, snacks, and drinks. At-seat service in some classes
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket and must be leashed
Quiet zone
FAQs: Budapest to Essen train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Budapest to Essen 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 Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
To fully experience Essen's cultural and historical highlights, plan for 2 to 3 days.
To get from Budapest to Essen, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
A day trip from Budapest to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 12h 7m. Additionally, the distance is 972 km, making it impractical for a single day. There are 19 trains available per day for this route.
The train journey from Budapest to Essen offers some scenic views, especially as it traverses the picturesque landscapes of Hungary and Austria, including rolling hills and charming villages, before entering the more industrial scenery of Germany.
Booking trains from Budapest to Essen in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train distance from Budapest to Essen is 972 km.
The cost of a train ticket from Budapest to Essen can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £41, while the average price tends to be around £106.
The train journey from Budapest to Essen covers a distance of 972 km and takes approximately 12h 7m. Trains run 19 per day.
The first train from Budapest to Essen leaves at 0:04.
The cheapest way to get from Budapest to Essen is by coach, costing approximately £39.
The last train from Budapest to Essen departs at 23:51.
Trains from Budapest to Essen run approximately 19 times per day.
The train station in Budapest that goes to Essen is Budapest Keleti, and it arrives at Essen Hbf.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Budapest to Essen.
Yes, you can take the train from Budapest to Essen.
There is no night train service from Budapest to Essen.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Budapest and Essen
Budapest
Essen
The major train station for departures in Budapest is Budapest Keleti. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Budapest Keleti for your trip from Budapest to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 km
Number of platforms
18Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7, accessible from Kerepesi út.
Dining
- Rosenstein Restaurant
- Huszar Restaurant
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- HUF 200
Hotel
- Hotel Hungaria City Center
- Baross City Hotel
- Royal Park Boutique Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-6 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: platforms 7-13 for regional trains
- Hall 3: platforms 14-18 for suburban trains
Public transport options for Budapest Keleti
- Metro: Line M2, Line M4
- Bus: Several lines available
- Tram: Line 24
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 kmNumber of platforms
16Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, with access from Etele tér.
Dining
- Restaurant Etele Plaza
- KFC Etele Plaza
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- HUF 200
Hotel
- Hotel Griff
- Hotel Ventura
- Hotel Berlin
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-8 for international and domestic long-distance trains
- Hall 2: regional and suburban train platforms
- Hall 3: Metro and tram connections
Public transport options for Budapest-Kelenföld
- Metro: Line M4
- Tram: Line 1, Line 19, Line 49
- Bus: Several lines available
Amenities at train station
LockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 06:00-10:00, 10:20-14:00, 14:25- 17:35
Distance to city center
1 kmLockers
- Located in the passenger hall, approaching the entrance near the international checkout to the left.
Dining
- Déli Terasz Söröző
- Ibrahim török büfé
- Vagon Etterem
- Fornetti
- Trio pizza
- Turkish Döner KEBAB
- Déli Mosoly
- Balatonexpressz Étkezőkocsi
- Club D One
- Lokomotív Falatozó
Accessibility
- There are some accessible features including ramps and elevators.
Hotel
- Mercure Budapest Castle Hill
- Christina Residence Budapest
- ibis Budapest Castle Hill
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 06:00-10:00, 10:20-14:00, 14:25- 17:35
Information Desk
- Located in the passenger hall of the train station, next to the international ticket offices.
Public transport options for Budapest-Déli
- Metro lines: M2 (red)
- Tram lines: 17, 56, 56A, 59, 59A, 59B, 61
- Bus lines: 21, 21A, 39, 102, 139, 140, 140A, N960, N990
- Train lines: IC, IR, S (10, 12, 30, 34, 35, 40, 42), Z30
The major train station for arrivals in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your journey to Essen from Budapest.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
Essen Süd
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Haus Wilmes
- Mana Mana
- Karawane
Hotel
- Webers
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- Burger King
- Werner
- Bückmannsmühle
- Muckel-Eis
Most popular train connections from Budapest
More options for your journey from Budapest to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Budapest
Most popular train connections to Essen
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