The Ultimate Guide to Booking a Train from Budapest to Vienna

bettitoursbudapest
6 days ago
3 min read

Traveling from Budapest to Vienna by train is not only one of the most convenient and scenic ways to move between two European capitals but also a culturally immersive experience. With multiple train operators, flexible schedules, and competitive prices, this route is a favorite among both tourists and locals. But what's the best way to book your ticket? And how can you avoid common pitfalls in the process? In this comprehensive blog post, we dive into the most efficient, cost-effective, and reliable ways to book your train ride from Budapest to Vienna.

Why Choose the Train?

Compared to flying or taking a bus, the train offers several distinct advantages:

Speed: Travel time is typically just over 2 hours.
Comfort: Spacious seating, onboard Wi-Fi, and dining options.
Convenience: City center to city center without airport hassle.
Frequency: Trains run nearly every hour during the day.

These benefits make it the preferred mode of travel for many.

Understanding the Train Options

The main train types servicing the Budapest-Vienna route include:

Railjet (RJ): High-speed trains operated by ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways), known for comfort and efficiency.
EuroCity (EC): Also run by ÖBB and Hungarian Railways (MÁV), offering a similar travel time and standard of service.
RegioJet: A private operator that offers budget options with modern amenities.

Most trains depart from Budapest Keleti Station and arrive at Vienna Hauptbahnhof (Hbf). The frequency of service ensures flexibility for various travel plans.

Ticket Prices and Where to Book

Prices depend on the time of booking, class of service, and train operator. Here’s how ticketing typically breaks down:

Railjet & EuroCity: Starting at around €30-35 for second class; first and business classes cost more.
RegioJet: As low as €8-10 if booked early.

Where to Book:

Official Websites
- MÁV (Hungarian Railways): jegy.mav.hu
- ÖBB (Austrian Railways): oebb.at
Third-Party Platforms
- Omio
- Trainline

These platforms are user-friendly and support multiple languages and currencies.

Booking Directly via MÁV: Pros and Cons

While booking through MÁV (Hungarian Railways) can often yield the lowest prices, the experience isn’t always seamless.

Pros:

Direct access to Hungarian fares
Sometimes cheaper than third-party sites

Cons:

Website reliability issues
Payment errors and timeouts
Language and navigation challenges

Pro Tip: The MÁV site doesn’t always work smoothly, especially for international travelers. If you're already in Hungary or arriving soon, buying tickets in person at the station can be the most reliable option. Budapest Keleti Station has an international ticketing counter with English-speaking staff.

Seat Classes and Amenities

You have three main options:

2nd Class: Standard seating, often sufficient for short trips.
1st Class: More space and quieter surroundings.
Business Class: Premium service including complimentary snacks and beverages (on Railjet).

Most trains offer Wi-Fi, power outlets, clean restrooms, and snack bars. Railjet even provides an at-seat dining menu in Business Class.

When to Book for the Best Price

Early Booking = Lower Prices: Tickets often go on sale 60-90 days in advance.
Avoid Last-Minute Purchases: Prices can rise sharply close to departure.
Use Price Alerts: Platforms like Trainline allow for fare tracking.

Final Thoughts: What's the Best Strategy?

For Budget Travelers: RegioJet offers unbeatable prices if you're flexible.
For Comfort and Speed: Railjet and EuroCity strike a perfect balance.
For Booking: Use ÖBB or a third-party site like Omio. If you're already in Hungary, consider buying at the station due to MÁV's occasional unreliability.

Whatever your travel priorities, the Budapest to Vienna train route delivers a blend of efficiency, comfort, and European charm that's hard to beat.

Safe travels, and enjoy the journey!