Prague to Budapest by Train
Direct high-speed service · from €16.9
Route Overview: Prague to Budapest
Connect two of Central Europe's most captivating capitals by direct train. Prague to Budapest by rail takes under 7 hours on the fastest EuroCity services, crossing through Slovakia with a stop in Bratislava. Up to 11 daily departures offer excellent flexibility for this popular route.
Czech Railways operates the mainline EuroCity service via Breclav and Bratislava, now using modern railjet equipment from December 2025. RegioJet offers a budget-friendly alternative via Vienna, taking slightly longer at 8 hours but including free coffee, water and at-seat steward service.
The journey passes through three countries and offers a fascinating contrast between the Gothic and Baroque architecture of Prague and the grand riverside panorama of Budapest, split across the Danube between Buda and Pest.
How Long Is the Prague to Budapest Train?
The direct Ceske drahy (Czech Railways) from Prague to Budapest takes approximately 6h 43min, with multiple daily departures.
How Much Does a Prague to Budapest Train Ticket Cost?
Tickets start from €16.9 when booked in advance. Prices vary by date, time, and availability.
How Many Trains Run Daily from Prague to Budapest?
Up to 11/day trains operate daily on the Prague to Budapest route.
Train Operator
Ceske drahy (Czech Railways)
Direct high-speed service · 6h 43min max
Which Stations Serve the Prague to Budapest Route?
Praha hlavni nadrazi
- Metro line C (red)
- Main departure point for all Budapest-bound trains
Budapest Keleti
- Metro lines M2 and M4
- Central location in Pest — walk to city centre in 15 minutes
What Classes Are Available on Prague to Budapest Trains?
2nd Class (Czech Railways)
- Air conditioning
- Free WiFi
- Power outlets
- Restaurant car
- Luggage storage
1st Class (Czech Railways)
- Wider seats with extra legroom
- Free WiFi
- Power outlets at every seat
- Quieter carriages
- Restaurant car access
RegioJet Standard
- Free WiFi
- Free coffee and water
- Power outlets
- Entertainment portal
RegioJet Business
- Leather seats
- Free sparkling wine and snacks
- At-seat steward service
- Free WiFi and entertainment
How to Book the Prague to Budapest Train?
Starting Price
Per person, one way in 2nd Class (Czech Railways) class. Prices shown are indicative advance-purchase fares.
Book Early
Tickets are available up to 6 months in advance. Advance bookings offer the best prices.
Children & Youth
Children 4-11 may qualify for reduced fares. Youth discounts may be available. Infants under 4 travel free
Luggage
Standard luggage allowance applies
What Should You Know About Prague to Budapest Trains?
Two Route Options
Czech Railways EuroCity trains go via Breclav and Bratislava (6h 43min fastest). RegioJet trains take a longer route via Vienna (8h 10min) but offer lower prices and better on-board service.
New Railjet Trains
From December 2025, Czech Railways has deployed modern railjet and comfortjet trains on this corridor, offering a significant comfort upgrade.
RegioJet On-Board Service
RegioJet includes free WiFi, coffee, water and excellent at-seat steward service. Business class adds sparkling wine and premium snacks.
Three Countries
The train passes through Czech Republic, Slovakia (or Austria via RegioJet) and Hungary. All are in the Schengen Area — no passport control but carry ID.
Frequently Asked Questions: Prague to Budapest
The fastest direct trains take 6 hours 43 minutes via Bratislava. RegioJet services via Vienna take approximately 8 hours 10 minutes. Average journey time across all services is about 7 hours 45 minutes.
Advance tickets start from €20 on Czech Railways. RegioJet fares are often similar or slightly cheaper, especially at short notice when national rail prices rise. Same-day tickets cost around €30-40.
Czech Railways is faster (6h 43min vs 8h 10min) via Bratislava. RegioJet is often cheaper, includes free amenities and goes via Vienna — useful if you want to see both cities. Both offer WiFi and comfortable seating.
Yes. Czech Railways trains stop in Bratislava. You can buy separate tickets and break the journey. Bratislava is worth at least a half-day visit with its compact Old Town.
There is no direct night train. The latest departures are in the early evening, arriving in Budapest by night. For overnight options, consider connecting via Vienna.