Routes and stations
Budapest has several main stations. Keleti is the main start point for international trains such as the railjet to Vienna. Nyugati is the main station for most Prague trains and the night train. Déli is another central terminus. Kelenföld, outside the centre, is a stop for some Vienna trains.
From Budapest, railjet trains reach Vienna in about 2 hours 40 to 50 minutes. EuroCity and railjet trains also run towards Bratislava and Prague. Domestic InterCity trains link Budapest with Debrecen, Szeged, Pécs, Győr and the Balaton resorts.
Planned works can change timetables, so check the online timetable before you travel.
Tickets and fares
Domestic fares are low. InterCity trains need a supplement on top of the ticket: 300 to 990 HUF in 2nd class, 1,990 HUF in 1st class and 2,990 HUF in Premium class. The supplement is linked to one train.
Children under 14 and passengers over 65 travel free on domestic trains, regardless of nationality. Show a passport as proof of age. Young people aged 14 to 25 can get 50% off.
Budapest to Vienna by railjet starts at about €19.90 in 2nd class, €29.90 in 1st and €44.90 in business. International fares change with demand.
How to book
The MÁV app for iOS and Android sells domestic tickets by credit card, and you can show them offline. Online and app tickets are about 5% cheaper than at the ticket office.
Online tickets are personal. Carry a passport or ID card for inspection.
Stations have ticket offices and machines that take cash in forint or cards. International tickets are sold on MÁV's Elvira site, which opens about 60 days ahead, or by ÖBB and other sellers.
Tips for travellers
A normal ticket is valid on any train on the route that day, but the IC supplement is only for the train you chose. Tickets for up to 100 km are valid for four hours.
Adults can carry hand luggage up to 30 kg. Smoking and e-cigarettes are banned on trains and in stations.
If a station has no ticket office or machine, you can buy on board. Otherwise buy before boarding to avoid a fine.
Last checked: October 2026. Fares and timetables change, so confirm on the official website before you travel.
