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Travel from Cologne to Budapest by train in 12 hours 22 minutes

If you want to know more about the journey from Cologne to Budapest by train, look no further!

The average journey time from Cologne to Budapest by train is 15 hours 14 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 12 hours 22 minutes. You'll usually find 10 trains per day traveling the 730 km between these two destinations. You'll need to make 2 changes along the way as there are no direct services to Budapest.

Book train tickets from Cologne to Budapest in advance instead of buying them on the day and you'll snap up the cheapest fares. You can check prices from Cologne to Budapest in our Journey Planner.

Ready to book? Start your search for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information, including our train schedule where you can view first and last train times, as well as tips on how to find cheap train tickets.

Cologne to Budapest by train

First train

06:44

Last train

22:40

Departure station

Cologne

Arrival station

Budapest

Journey time

From 12h 22m

Distance

453 miles (730 km)

Frequency

10 trains per day

Changes

2 changes

Cologne to Budapest train times

Check out the next trains departing from Cologne to Budapest for Tuesday Apr 2nd 2024. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
05:44 18:58 13h 14m, 4 changes
05:44 19:02 13h 18m, 3 changes
07:40 20:02 12h 22m, 5 changes
07:40 21:02 13h 22m, 4 changes
08:40 23:02 14h 22m, 4 changes
11:40 07:02 19h 22m, 5 changes
12:40 07:02 18h 22m, 7 changes
17:40 08:02 14h 22m, 3 changes
20:40 11:02 14h 22m, 2 changes
21:40 17:02 19h 22m, 4 changes

Cheap train tickets from Cologne to Budapest

Book in advance

Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Cologne to Budapest by booking early.§

Be flexible with your travel times

Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.

Choose a slower or connecting train

On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!

Look out for special deals

Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

FAQs for Cologne to Budapest

Want to know more about your journey from Cologne to Budapest? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How long does the train from Cologne to Budapest take?

The average journey time by train between Cologne and Budapest is 15 hours and 14 minutes, with around 10 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.

What's the fastest journey time between Cologne and Budapest by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Cologne to Budapest is 12 hours and 22 minutes.

Is there a direct train from Cologne to Budapest?

No, there are no direct train services from Cologne to Budapest. Travelling from Cologne to Budapest by train will require a minimum of 2 changes.

What time does the first train from Cologne to Budapest leave?

The first train from Cologne to Budapest leaves at 06:44. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.

What time does the last train from Cologne to Budapest leave?

The last train from Cologne to Budapest leaves at 22:40. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.

What's the distance between Cologne and Budapest by train?

Trains travelling from Cologne to Budapest cover a distance of around 453 miles (730 km) during the journey.

Looking for more information?

If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Budapest to Cologne.


* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.

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