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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Budapest
Showing times and prices for 12 Jan
Cheapest price
£145
Average price
£145
Fastest journey
12 h 11 m
Average duration
12 h 51 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
972 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Budapest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Budapest will cost around £145 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £145.
Fast trains
To travel from Essen to Budapest you need to make at least 3 changes.
S6 · ICE 121 · ICE 621 · ICE 9107:4813h31
Essen Hbf21:19Budapest Keleti
£1451One-way
4 changes
S6 · ICE 915 · ICE 25 · RJX 6708:0812h11
Essen Hbf20:19Budapest Keleti
£1451One-way
3 changes
S6 · ICE 621 · ICE 91 · RJX 16508:2812h51
Essen Hbf21:19Budapest Keleti
£1451One-way
3 changes
S6 · ICE 623 · ICE 27 · EC 34109:2812h51
Essen Hbf22:19Budapest Keleti
£1451One-way
3 changes
S6 · ICE 915 · ICE 25 · RJX 6708:0812h11
Essen Hbf20:19Budapest Keleti
£1451One-way
3 changes
S6 · ICE 621 · ICE 91 · RJX 16508:2812h51
Essen Hbf21:19Budapest Keleti
£1451One-way
3 changes
S6 · ICE 623 · ICE 27 · EC 34109:2812h51
Essen Hbf22:19Budapest Keleti
£1451One-way
3 changes
S6 · ICE 121 · ICE 621 · ICE 9107:4813h31
Essen Hbf21:19Budapest Keleti
£1451One-way
4 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Essen to Budapest
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Budapest 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 12m. 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 £55.
Distance: 972 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£99 Average Price | £132 Average Price | £65 Average Price Cheapest |
12h 39m Average total duration 12h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 12m Average total duration Fastest 2h 12m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 20h 42m Average total duration 20h 12m 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
Essen to Budapest train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Budapest trains for tomorrow, Monday 12 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 20:20
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S6 · ICE 121 · ICE 621 · ICE 91 | 06:48 Essen Hbf | 13h31 | 20:19 Budapest Keleti | 4 changes | |
| S6 · ICE 915 · ICE 25 · RJX 67 | On time 07:08 Essen Hbf | 12h11 | 19:19 Budapest Keleti | 3 changes | |
| S6 · ICE 621 · ICE 91 · RJX 165 | 07:28 Essen Hbf | 12h51 | 20:19 Budapest Keleti | 3 changes | |
| S6 · ICE 623 · ICE 27 · EC 341 | 08:28 Essen Hbf | 12h51 | 21:19 Budapest Keleti | 3 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Budapest by coach, train or flight
Compare coach, train 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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12 Jan
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Budapest
Germany
Hungary
Trains from Essen to Budapest run on average 19 times per day, taking around 12h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £35 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:52, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 972 km distance in 12h 2m.
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
Distance 972 km |
Average train duration 12h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price £35 |
Trains per day 19 |
Fastest train 12h 2m |
First train 00:52 |
Last train 23:45 |
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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Essen to Budapest trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and Budapest from £35. 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 2m
Cheapest Price
£35
Deutsche Bahn frequency
12 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
FAQs: Essen to Budapest train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen 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.
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.
The train journey from Essen to Budapest offers diverse landscapes, including the picturesque Rhine Valley with its vineyards and castles, as well as scenic views of the Bavarian countryside and the Danube River.
The cost of a train ticket from Essen to Budapest can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £35, while the average price tends to be around £99.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Budapest is by train, costing approximately £35.
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.
The train distance from Essen to Budapest is 972 km.
The last train from Essen to Budapest departs at 23:45.
A day trip from Essen to Budapest is not feasible due to the journey duration of 12h 2m and a distance of 972 km. There are 19 trains per day available.
There is no night train service from Essen to Budapest.
Booking trains from Essen 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 Essen to Budapest covers a distance of 972 km and takes approximately 12h 2m. Trains run 19 per day.
The train station in Essen that goes to Budapest is Essen Hbf, and it arrives at Budapest Keleti.
The first train from Essen to Budapest leaves at 0:52.
Trains from Essen to Budapest run approximately 19 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Budapest.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Budapest.
To get from Essen to Budapest, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Budapest
Essen
Budapest
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your trip from Essen to Budapest.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information 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
The major train station for arrivals in Budapest is Budapest Keleti. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Budapest Keleti for your journey to Budapest from Essen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation 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
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
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
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Budapest
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Budapest and Essen
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