- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts
Major fine arts museum on Heroes’ Square with European paintings, sculpture, and temporary exhibitions.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for London to Budapest
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from London to Budapest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.4 - 3.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $20, and a bus costs an average of $105.
Distance: 900 miles (1449 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$152 Average price Cheapest | $177 Average price | $74 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 12m Average total duration Fastest 3h 12m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 29h 38m Average total duration 29h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 18h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
4.3 - 8.7kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 3.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 London to Budapest is a flight with an average price of $152 (€126).
This is compared to other travel options from London to Budapest:
A flight is $26 (€21) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from London to Budapest costing on average $177 (€147).
The fastest way to travel from London to Budapest is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 12m.
Other travel options to Budapest take longer:
Bus takes on average 29h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between London and Budapest including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from London to Budapest among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets London to Budapest by bus or flight
Compare bus 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 London to Budapest
United Kingdom
Hungary
Take a train from London to Budapest and enjoy the approximately 900 miles (1449 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
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 $20 (€17)
Distance 900 miles (1449 km) |
Trains per day 2 |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 7 days |
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 $20 (€17)
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.
- Must visit
House of Terror Museum
A powerful museum on the fascist and communist dictatorships in Hungary, set in the former secret police headquarters.
- Must visit
Hungarian National Gallery
The main museum for Hungarian art, housed inside Buda Castle with medieval, baroque, and modern collections.
- Must visit
Castle District
Historic hilltop quarter of cobbled lanes, viewpoints, and elegant buildings surrounding Buda Castle.
- Must visit
Gellért Hill
Popular walking area for dramatic overlooks of the Danube, bridges, and the Pest skyline.
- Recommended
Andrássy Avenue
Grand boulevard lined with mansions, cultural venues, and cafés, ideal for architecture-focused walks.
- Gluten-free
Gulyás
Hungary’s iconic paprika-rich soup with beef, potatoes, and vegetables. In Budapest, it is a classic introduction to traditional home-style cooking.
- Gluten-free
Halászlé
Spicy fisherman’s soup made with river fish and paprika. It is a celebrated Hungarian dish, especially valued for its bold, deep flavor.
Chicken Paprikash
Tender chicken cooked in a creamy paprika sauce, often served with nokedli. It is one of the most beloved comfort dishes in Hungarian cuisine.
Rosenstein Vendéglő
A respected family-run restaurant serving Hungarian and Hungarian-Jewish specialties in a warm, classic setting loved by locals and visitors.
Stand Restaurant
A Michelin-starred Budapest dining room offering refined contemporary Hungarian cuisine with polished service and a fine dining atmosphere.
Menza Étterem és Kávéház
A stylish, long-running restaurant near Andrássy Avenue known for reliable Hungarian classics, retro atmosphere, and broad local appeal.
Hungarian Forint
Moderate by European standards: public transport and casual dining are good value, while central hotels and upscale restaurants cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- HUF 2,500-4,500 for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- HUF 6,000-12,000 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- HUF 20,000+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- HUF 800-1,500 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
A 10% service charge is often added in restaurants. If not, tip 10%. Round up for taxis; small tips for hotel staff are appreciated.
BudapestGO
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 450 HUF
- Day pass
- 2,500 HUF
To the city center
Budapest Keleti -> Deák Ferenc tér, Budapest
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Validate your paper ticket before boarding or entering the metro; mobile tickets in BudapestGO must be activated before travel.
- Card payment is generally available at ticket machines, but onboard payment on buses and trams is not standard, so buy your ticket in advance.
Traveling by train from London to Budapest
The train connection between London and Budapest offers a unique travel experience, allowing you to explore the scenic landscapes of Europe. While there is no direct high-speed train service connecting these two cities, travelers can utilize various rail providers such as Eurostar for the initial leg from London to Brussels or Paris, followed by connections through other European trains like Thalys or Deutsche Bahn towards Budapest. This journey not only provides comfort but also an opportunity to witness diverse cultures along the way.
Train Connection: London to Budapest
The train journey from London to Budapest takes approximately 23 hours and 1 minute, with a total of 3 connections per day. This route does not offer direct trains, requiring transfers along the way.
London to Budapest Train Connection
The first daily train journey from London to Budapest departs at 09:01, while the last departure is scheduled for 19:34. This allows travelers a full day of options to embark on their adventure between these two cities.
Train Tickets Price for London to Budapest
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from London to Budapest is €59.7, while the average ticket price tends to be around €67.5.
Exploring Budapest's Iconic Landmarks
Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has stood as a symbol of Hungary's royal history since the 13th century. Its significance lies not only in its stunning architecture but also in its role as the residence for Hungarian kings and now houses the National Gallery and Historical Museum. Unique features include its breathtaking panoramic views of Budapest from Fisherman’s Bastion and the intricate Baroque style that reflects centuries of artistic evolution.
The Parliament Building is one of Europe’s oldest legislative buildings, completed in 1904, showcasing an eclectic mix of Gothic Revival architecture with Renaissance influences. This iconic structure symbolizes Hungary's national identity and democracy while housing important governmental functions; it boasts over 700 rooms! Visitors are often captivated by its striking dome adorned with gold accents and impressive interior spaces like the grand staircase.
The Chain Bridge was completed in 1849 as Hungary's first permanent bridge across the Danube River, connecting Buda to Pest—a pivotal moment for urban development. It holds immense historical significance as a testament to engineering innovation during that era while serving as a vital transportation link between two halves of Budapest. What makes this landmark truly unique are its majestic lion statues guarding each end and how it beautifully illuminates at night against the backdrop of both hillsides.
FAQs: Trains from London to Budapest
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London 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 distance by train from London to Budapest is 900 miles (1449 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London to Budapest.
The cheapest way to get from London to Budapest is by flight, with a cost of around $20 (€17).
The train journey from London to Budapest offers scenic views, particularly through the Austrian and Hungarian countryside, showcasing picturesque villages, rolling hills, and expansive fields.
In Budapest, you can relax at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, explore the vibrant Great Market Hall, take a scenic cruise on the Danube River for unique views of landmarks, visit the House of Terror Museum, and enjoy a performance at the Hungarian State Opera House. Don't miss sights like Buda Castle, the Parliament Building, Fisherman's Bastion, St. Stephen's Basilica, and Heroes' Square for their stunning architecture and historical significance.
Three to four days are generally recommended to explore Budapest’s main attractions, including the historic Buda Castle, thermal baths, and vibrant ruin bars.
No, you cannot take the train from London to Budapest.
Budapest is within the Schengen Area. Passport and visa requirements depend on your nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Budapest include Győr, Hegyeshalom, Mosonmagyaróvár, Nickelsdorf, Csorna.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from London to Budapest among Omio's users.
Currently, UK citizens do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period) for tourism or business in the Schengen Area. However, the new ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is scheduled to launch in late 2026. Once active, this digital travel authorization will be a mandatory pre-travel requirement for all UK passport holders.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Travelers often find it convenient to use cards in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is recommended for smaller shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Budapest, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, markets, and popular tourist sites. Overcharging and unofficial taxi scams can occur, so it's best to use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps. Be wary of street vendors and people offering unsolicited help or friendship, as these can sometimes lead to distraction theft or pressure to pay for services. Always keep personal belongings secure and stay alert in busy locations.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
More options for your journey from London to Budapest
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Budapest and London
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