Vienna and Budapest were once twin capitals of an empire that covered most of central Europe and the Balkans. Today, the Austro-Hungarian Empire may be gone, but even when divided between two countries, its cities are still as close together as ever.
So, what’s the best way to travel from Vienna to Budapest? Well, if you’re not going to be tagging along with a royal Habsburg entourage, then the answer is definitely by train.
How long does the high-speed train from Vienna to Budapest take?
Thanks to Europe’s great rail connections and train services via ÖBB—Austria’s national train operator—the journey from Vienna to Budapest takes an average of 3h 18m, with about 46 trains leaving the Austrian capital per day. Trains from Budapest to Vienna take an average of 3h 39m. But if you take the high-speed Railjet service between the two cities, you'll be looking a journey time of around 2h 30m.
Image Credit: Getty Images. Image Location: Keleti Station, Budapest
How much does a train from Vienna to Budapest cost?
This depends on which ÖBB class you choose and whether you want the high-speed train or the stopping service. Prices start from £8.10 (that’s about $10) if you book early. A single return from Budapest to Vienna costs the same if you’ve booked in advance.
What amenities are on the Vienna to Budapest train?
ÖBB trains via Railjet, Regiojet or Eurocity services along this route have up to four classes, including Economy and First, with the latter making for a more luxurious ride. However, all passengers on Regiojet can enjoy modern amenities like free WiFi, and if you're on Eurocity, you'll get air-conditioning as standard.
Image credit: Getty Images. Image Location: St Stephen's Basilica, Budapest
Is 48 hours in Budapest enough?
Budapest is a city that has no shortage of attractions to keep travelers coming back again and again, but 48 hours is enough time to hit the essentials, such as the museums at Buda Castle, a dip in one of its many thermal baths, a bite to eat at its opulent cafés, and a drink in one of its ruin bars.
How many days do you need in Vienna?
Though you can speedrun a city like Budapest in two days, we recommend three to four days to get the most out of Vienna.
As the home of the Habsburg dynasty for centuries, Vienna is full of castles and palaces. The city also has incredible art museums, and lovers of music can see performances in theaters and opera houses which have kept Vienna a European music capital since the days of Beethoven and Mozart.
Image credit: Getty Images. Image Location: Vienna State Opera House
Should you spend more time in Vienna or Budapest?
That depends. Though the two cities have much in common, they still are very different. If you are a fan of clean European cities, museums, palaces, and classical music, Vienna is your town. Budapest has no shortage of traditional attractions either, but it’s also well known for its nightlife, with a grungier vibe, such as its “ruin bars.”
If the question comes down to financing, travelers should know that Budapest is still significantly cheaper than Vienna. Prioritizing Budapest in a trip to both cities will save you a fair few dollars.
Add this European city to your itinerary
If you have the time and the interest, Bratislava can easily be added to this Austria/Hungary itinerary. An hour’s train ride from Vienna, Slovakia’s capital was once one of the most important cities in the Kingdom of Hungary and it was a coronation city for Austro-Hungarian royalty.
Today Bratislava is home to a picturesque old town and a thriving gastro scene. It’s also less overwhelmed by tourism than both Vienna and Budapest.
Looking for tickets?
Feel like taking a central European train adventure? Download the Trainline App and find the cheapest and fastest trains between these two unmissable capitals.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images. Image Location: St Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna