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How to get from Budapest to Vienna
The fastest and easiest way from Budapest to Vienna is the direct train from Budapest-Keleti to Wien Hauptbahnhof, about 2 h 40. Long-distance buses are often the cheapest at about 3 h, and driving takes about 2 h 45 on the M1 and A4 motorways.
Best option: Train. Direct trains run through the day, link the two city centres and are rarely affected by traffic or border queues.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| train Direct ÖBB Railjet and other international trains from Budapest-Keleti to Wien Hauptbahnhof | about 2 h 40 | roughly every 1–2 hours | about €15–45, cheapest when booked ahead | Some trains also stop at Wien Meidling or continue west; check the departure station in Budapest, usually Keleti. |
| bus Long-distance coaches (FlixBus and others) from Budapest Népliget and other stops to Vienna | about 3 h | several a day | about €10–25 | Arrival stops in Vienna vary by operator; check which one before booking. |
| car M1 motorway (Hungary) then A4 (Austria) | about 2 h 45 | fuel plus a Hungarian e-vignette and an Austrian motorway vignette | Buy both vignettes before using the motorways. Parking in central Vienna is metered in most districts. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Book international train tickets on the ÖBB or MÁV websites; early fares are much cheaper than walk-up prices.
- Wien Hauptbahnhof is on U-Bahn line U1, which runs directly to Stephansplatz in the centre.
- Rental cars from Hungary may need permission to cross into Austria; ask the rental company.
- Carry your passport or ID card; spot checks happen even within Schengen.
Common questions
Is there a direct train from Budapest to Vienna?
Yes. Direct international trains, including ÖBB Railjets, run from Budapest-Keleti to Wien Hauptbahnhof roughly every one to two hours, taking about 2 h 40. No change is needed. Some services also call at other Vienna stations or continue further west, so check the arrival station shown on your ticket.
Can I visit Vienna as a day trip from Budapest?
It is possible but long, with about 5 h 30 of travel in total. Take a train around 6:00–7:00 and return on one of the evening departures, and you get roughly eight hours in Vienna. That is enough for the old town and one major museum or palace. An overnight stay is more comfortable.
What is the cheapest way from Budapest to Vienna?
Usually a long-distance bus, at about €10–25 if booked in advance, though early saver train fares can cost almost as little. Compare both a few weeks before you travel. Prices for both rise close to the departure date, especially on Friday and Sunday afternoons.
Do I need to book ahead?
Not strictly, but it saves money. Train tickets bought weeks in advance are often much cheaper than buying on the day, and buses can sell out at weekends and holidays. If your plans are flexible, a walk-up train ticket is always available, just at a higher price.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.