How to get from Zurich to Budapest using public transport

4 hours, 25 minutes
Change (14 minutes)
Change (2 minutes)
  • Travel to Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport Ticket Explore similar


  • Travel time: 2 hours, 55 minutes
Change (3 minutes)
Change (3 minutes)
4 hours, 8 minutes
  • Travel to Zürich, Bahnhofstrasse/HB Ticket Explore similar


  • Travel time: 1 minute
Change (4 minutes)
Change (2 minutes)
  • Travel to Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport Ticket Explore similar


  • Travel time: 2 hours, 55 minutes
Change (3 minutes)
Change (3 minutes)
13 hours, 50 minutes
Change (13 minutes)
Change (2 minutes)
Change (5 minutes)
6 hours, 43 minutes
Change (14 minutes)
Change (2 minutes)
  • Travel to Vienna International Airport Ticket Explore similar


  • Travel time: 2 hours, 35 minutes
Change (2 minutes)
  • Travel to Budapest Kelenföld bus station Ticket Explore similar


  • Travel time: 2 hours, 40 minutes
Change (3 minutes)
6 hours, 37 minutes
Change (14 minutes)
Change (2 minutes)
  • Travel to Vienna International Airport Ticket Explore similar


  • Travel time: 2 hours, 35 minutes
Change (2 minutes)
  • Travel to Budapest Kelenföld bus station Ticket Explore similar


  • Travel time: 2 hours, 40 minutes
Change (2 minutes)
  • Travel to Szent Gellért tér - Műegyetem Ticket Explore similar


  • Travel time: 6 minutes
Change (2 minutes)
  • Travel to Clark Ádám tér Ticket Explore similar


  • Travel time: 5 minutes

More destination from Zurich.

More destination from Budapest.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get from Zurich to Budapest?
The fastest route from Zurich to Budapest takes 4h 8min, primarily by public transport. Depending on the combination of transport modes and number of transfers you choose, journey times range from 4h 8min up to 13h 50min. We recommend checking live departure times using the search feature to find the option that best fits your schedule.
How many transfers do I need from Zurich to Budapest?
There is no direct connection from Zurich to Budapest. All available routes require at least 2 transfer(s), and some itineraries involve up to 4. We recommend allowing sufficient time between connections, especially when crossing between different transport operators or stations.
Can I travel from Zurich to Budapest entirely by train?
There is no all-train route available from Zurich to Budapest. All available itineraries combine trains with other modes of transport such as bus, metro, or tram for the first or last leg of the journey.
Can I travel from Zurich to Budapest by bus?
Yes, bus or coach services are available on at least part of the route from Zurich to Budapest. The fastest option including a bus leg takes 4h 8min. Bus options are often more affordable than trains and can be a good choice if you are travelling on a budget and have flexible timing.
Are there flights available from Zurich to Budapest?
Yes, routes including a flight are available from Zurich to Budapest. The fastest flight-based option takes 4h 8min including ground transport to and from the airport. Keep in mind that flying typically produces significantly more CO2 emissions than train or bus travel for the same route.
What transport modes are available from Zurich to Budapest?
Several transport modes are available for travelling from Zurich to Budapest: bus, coach, flight, subway, train, tram. EuroPlanner shows you all possible combinations so you can compare journey times, number of transfers, and environmental impact before deciding which option suits you best.
Which companies operate routes from Zurich to Budapest?
Routes from Zurich to Budapest are operated by Bkk, Flixbus, Swiss, among others. Each itinerary on EuroPlanner includes a direct link to the relevant operator's website so you can check live schedules and purchase tickets directly.
What is the best option if I am travelling with a lot of luggage from Zurich to Budapest?
If you are travelling with heavy luggage from Zurich to Budapest, we recommend choosing the route with the fewest transfers. The option with the minimum number of changes requires 2 transfer(s) and takes 13h 50min. Fewer transfers means less time moving luggage between vehicles, platforms, or stations, making your journey significantly more comfortable.
How much time should I allocate for a trip from Zurich to Budapest?
For a trip from Zurich to Budapest, you should plan for between 4h 8min and 13h 50min of travel time depending on the route you choose. We also recommend arriving at your departure point at least 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled departure, and allowing extra buffer time if your itinerary includes multiple transfers or an airport leg.