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Trains from Budapest to Essen

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  1. Home
  2. Train times
  3. Budapest to Essen

About the train journey from Budapest to Essen

Want to travel from Budapest to Essen by train? Start your journey with us.

The train from Budapest to Essen usually takes 13 hours 28 minutes on average to travel 604 miles (972 km), although the quickest services can take as little as 12 hours. You can expect to find 18 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren’t any direct services running between Budapest and Essen, you’ll need to make 1 change on your way to Essen.

To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Budapest to Essen in our Journey Planner. Just remember, the sooner you book your tickets, the more you'll save!

Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Essen, including FAQs, timetables with first and last train times and tips on booking cheap train tickets. If you’re ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.

Trains to Essen from Budapest

First train

03:17

Last train

20:55

Departure stationBudapest
Arrival stationEssen
Journey time

From 12h 0m

Distance

604 miles (972 km)

Frequency

18 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Train and bus operators

Flixbus

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Budapest to Essen?

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

How do you travel to Essen from Budapest?

To get to Essen from Budapest, why not take the train? With 18 trains per day and an average journey time of 13 hours and 28 minutes, taking the train is a great way to travel. See our Journey Planner for up-to-date times and prices.

How long does it take to get from Budapest to Essen by train?

On average, it takes around 13 hours and 28 minutes to travel from Budapest to Essen by train, although you can get there in 12 hours and 0 minutes on the fastest services. With 18 trains per day running on this route, journey times may vary, so check our Journey Planner for more information.

How fast can trains travel from Budapest to Essen?

The fastest time a train can travel the 604 miles (972 km) from Budapest to Essen is 12 hours and 0 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Budapest to Essen?

There are no direct trains that run between Budapest and Essen. You’ll need to make at least 1 change along the way.

What are the train times from Budapest to Essen?

Check out the next trains departing from Budapest to Essen for Tuesday 14th October 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
04:5517:0212h 7m, 2 changes
04:5517:5813h 3m, 1 change
05:5518:0212h 7m, 2 changes
05:5519:3113h 36m, 1 change
06:5818:5812h 0m, 2 changes
06:5819:5813h 0m, 1 change
08:5521:2512h 30m, 2 changes
10:5801:1714h 19m, 4 changes
11:5504:5517h 0m, 5 changes
14:5506:0315h 8m, 1 change

How do I find cheap train tickets from Budapest to Essen?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

1. Book in advance

The price of train tickets from Budapest to Essen starts at § one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

2. Be flexible with your travel times

If you can, consider travelling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as many train companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

3. Buy a rail pass

If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Interrail Passes that are valid for travel within one country or multiple countries across Europe.

4. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

5. Look out for train ticket sales and discounts

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales on tickets throughout the year or offer discounts to senior/youth/group travellers, so keep an eye out!

6. Take a night train

Save on accommodation and use the night to travel by sleeper train to your next destination.

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

§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

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