Train service
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s national railway company, operating long-distance, regional, and international train services across Europe.
Leo Express
Leo Express is a Czech private transport company offering train and bus services in Central Europe, partly owned by Spain’s Renfe.
SNCF
SNCF is France’s state-owned rail operator, running high-speed, regional, and international TGV services across Europe.
Train tickets
Omio
Omio connects you with over 1,000 transport providers - trains, buses, flights, and more - to simplify your travel planning.
Trainline
Trainline sells rail and coach tickets worldwide on behalf of major UK and European transport companies.
Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Rail pass validity
When traveling by train from Amsterdam to Budapest, several rail passes could be applicable. The Interrail Global Pass is valid for residents of Europe and covers travel in multiple countries, including the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, and Hungary, which are the typical countries on the route from Amsterdam to Budapest. The Interrail One Country Pass is not applicable for this journey as it only covers travel within a single country. The Eurail Pass is intended for non-EU residents and similarly provides coverage for travel across multiple countries along this route. Therefore, the Interrail Global Pass and Eurail Pass can be used for this journey, provided the eligibility criteria for residency are met.
Getting around
Upon arriving in Budapest by train, you'll find the city well-connected and easy to navigate using various modes of local transportation. Budapest's public transportation system is efficient, consisting of trams, metros, buses, and trolleys operated by BKK (Budapesti Közlekedési Központ). The metro system has four lines (M1, M2, M3, M4) that connect major areas of the city, with several interchange stations for easy transfers. You can purchase single tickets or travel passes, which are valid across all public transport modes, at ticket machines or BKK points located in metro stations and major transport hubs.
The tram network is extensive, with iconic lines like Tram 2 offering scenic routes along the Danube River. Trams are frequent and a great way to see the city above ground. Buses and trolleys extend coverage to areas not served by the metro or tram, making them useful for reaching more suburban locations.
For taxis, it's advisable to use legitimate taxi companies like Főtaxi or City Taxi to ensure metered fares. Official taxis are typically yellow with a clearly displayed company logo. Alternatively, ridesharing services such as Bolt and Uber are popular and convenient options in Budapest, though pricing can vary based on demand.
Navigating Budapest with its public transport is straightforward once you become familiar with the map and routes. Ensure you validate your tickets before each journey to avoid fines, as ticket checks are common.
Onward connections
Budapest, a central hub in Eastern Europe, offers a range of popular rail connections, both domestically and internationally. Domestically, some notable routes include the journey to Debrecen, Hungary's second-largest city, which provides a scenic trip through the Great Hungarian Plain. Trains to the city of Pécs, nestled in the Mecsek Mountains, are also frequently used for those exploring the cultural richness of southern Hungary. Internationally, Budapest is connected to Vienna, Austria, with frequent and fast Railjet trains offering a comfortable two and a half hour ride. Another popular route is to Bratislava, Slovakia, which is easily accessible with a journey time of just over two hours. Budapest also connects to Prague, Czech Republic, with direct trains that take about seven hours, making it a popular overnight option. For those traveling further afield, the EuroNight service to Bucharest, Romania, offers a convenient overnight journey. Additionally, Budapest serves as a key stop on routes that head towards Belgrade, Serbia, and Zagreb, Croatia. These international services highlight Budapest's strategic location in the European rail network, providing efficient and scenic travel options for passengers.
Best time to visit
The best months to visit Budapest are generally from March to May and September to November. During spring and early autumn, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city by foot or embarking on train journeys through the scenic landscapes surrounding Budapest. These shoulder seasons also often feature moderate crowds, allowing for a more relaxed experience compared to the peak summer months. Prices for accommodations and attractions are typically lower than in summer, offering better value for travelers.
Springtime in Budapest is especially beautiful as the city’s gardens and parks come to life. In April, the Budapest Spring Festival showcases a wide range of cultural performances, from music to dance. During autumn, the city enjoys a colorful transformation as trees turn vibrant, and the Budapest Wine Festival, usually held in September, provides an opportunity to savor local expressions of food and wine against the stunning backdrop of Buda Castle.
Summer, from June to August, is the peak tourist season with warmer temperatures, lively outdoor events, and festivals like the Sziget Festival attracting lots of visitors, but this also means higher prices and larger crowds. Winter is colder, with December offering festive attractions like Christmas markets, but overall fewer activities and potentially harsh weather conditions. Arriving by train fits well into these shoulder seasons when European rail travel is also less congested than during holiday peaks.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from Amsterdam to Budapest?
According to EveryRail, prices are dynamic. Time of booking affects ticket costs. Tickets are cheaper when booked early. Travel season impacts fares. Prices rise during peak travel periods. Flexibility in departure time influences cost. Some days are more expensive to travel. Type of train service affects pricing. Faster trains usually cost more. Discounts and promotions can reduce costs. Booking class also alters price.
What trains run from Amsterdam to Budapest?
Deutsche Bahn operates trains from Amsterdam to Budapest. Flixbus operates buses from Amsterdam to Budapest. Leo Express does not operate direct trains or buses on this route. SNCF does not operate trains on this route.
How long does the train from Amsterdam to Budapest take?
According to EveryRail, the train from Amsterdam to Budapest takes 15–18 hours.
When is the best time to travel from Amsterdam to Budapest?
The best time to travel depends on several factors. Avoid peak tourist seasons. Crowds are larger during holidays and weekends. Prices tend to rise during high demand periods. Mid-week travel often offers better deals. Consider shoulder seasons for fewer crowds. Weather can impact travel comfort. Check for any scheduled rail maintenance. Special events in either city may affect demand.
What’s the best route or train to take from Amsterdam to Budapest?
Flixbus runs direct bus services from Amsterdam to Budapest. No direct train services operate on this route.
What rail passes can I use to travel from Amsterdam to Budapest?
According to EveryRail, if you are a resident of the EU or other eligible European countries, the Interrail Global Pass covers the route from Amsterdam to Budapest. If you are not a resident of these areas, the Eurail Global Pass is applicable for this journey.