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Trains from Zurich Airport to Budapest

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  1. Home
  2. Train times
  3. Zurich Airport to Budapest

About the train journey from Zurich Airport to Budapest

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

The train from Zurich Airport to Budapest usually takes 12 hours 7 minutes on average to travel 490 miles (788 km), although the quickest services can take as little as 10 hours 15 minutes. You can expect to find 12 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren’t any direct services running between Zurich Airport and Budapest, you’ll need to make 1 change on your way to Budapest.

To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Zurich Airport to Budapest 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 Budapest, 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 Budapest from Zurich Airport

First train

05:15

Last train

21:38

Departure stationZurich Airport
Arrival stationBudapest
Journey time

From 10h 15m

Distance

490 miles (788 km)

Frequency

12 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Train and bus operators

Flixbus

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

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

How do you travel to Budapest from Zurich Airport?

To get to Budapest from Zurich Airport, why not take the train? With 12 trains per day and an average journey time of 12 hours and 7 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 Zurich Airport to Budapest by train?

On average, it takes around 12 hours and 7 minutes to travel from Zurich Airport to Budapest by train, although you can get there in 10 hours and 15 minutes on the fastest services. With 12 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 Zurich Airport to Budapest?

The fastest time a train can travel the 490 miles (788 km) from Zurich Airport to Budapest is 10 hours and 15 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Zurich Airport to Budapest?

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

What are the train times from Zurich Airport to Budapest?

Check out the next trains departing from Zurich Airport to Budapest for Tuesday 14th October 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
04:1515:0210h 47m, 2 changes
06:4317:0210h 19m, 1 change
08:4318:5810h 15m, 2 changes
08:4319:0210h 19m, 1 change
10:4321:0210h 19m, 2 changes
12:4323:0210h 19m, 1 change
14:4307:0216h 19m, 5 changes
19:1508:0212h 47m, 1 change
20:2308:0211h 39m, 3 changes
20:3811:5815h 20m, 5 changes

How do I find cheap train tickets from Zurich Airport to Budapest?

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 Zurich Airport to Budapest 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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