- 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 Madrid to Budapest
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Budapest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $53. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 54m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 2.0 - 4.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $53, and a bus costs an average of $113.
Distance: 1226 miles (1974 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$195 Average price Cheapest | $203 Average price | $571 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 54m Average total duration Fastest 3h 54m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 37h 50m Average total duration 37h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 24h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
5.9 - 11.8kg CO2 emissions | 2.0 - 4.9kg 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 Madrid to Budapest is a flight with an average price of $195 (€161).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Budapest:
A flight is $8 (€6) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid to Budapest costing on average $203 (€168).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Budapest is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 54m.
Other travel options to Budapest take longer:
Bus takes on average 37h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Madrid and Budapest including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Budapest among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Madrid 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 Madrid to Budapest
Spain
Hungary
Take a train from Madrid to Budapest and enjoy the approximately 1226 miles (1974 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 13:18, the last at 13:18.
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 $53 (€43)
Distance 1226 miles (1974 km) |
First train 1:18 PM |
Last train 1:18 PM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 70 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 $53 (€43)
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.
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Budapest
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid 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 Madrid to Budapest is 1226 miles (1974 km).
The first train from Madrid to Budapest leaves at 1:18 PM.
The last train from Madrid to Budapest leaves at 1:18 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Budapest.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Budapest is by flight, with a cost of around $53 (€43).
The train journey from Madrid to Budapest offers diverse scenery, including the rolling landscapes of Spain, the picturesque Pyrenees, and the charming countryside of Southern France and Central Europe, providing a captivating travel experience.
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 Madrid to Budapest.
Since both Madrid and Budapest are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
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 Madrid to Budapest among Omio's users.
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 Madrid to Budapest
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Budapest and Madrid
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