Hungary
General train travel information for HUNGARY. Rail travel tours, accommodation, sightseeing.
Brief History
It all started in 1846, when the first railroad line between Pest and Vac opened. Since then, the country has been actively developing, building new lines and nationalizing existing ones. By 1910, Hungary had become one of the largest railroad operators in Europe.
In the 1950s, industrialization began and rail transport became an important element of economic development. Diesel and electric locomotives were introduced, making travel more comfortable and faster.
However, after the country's transition to capitalism in the 1990s, the quality of passenger service deteriorated. But in recent decades, Hungary has received significant funds from the European Union to modernize its rail network. Major investments were made in the main highways and suburban lines, making travel more comfortable and efficient.
Rail travel in Hungary has now become a convenient and interesting way to explore the country. Embark on an exciting journey, enjoy the scenic views and comfort of Hungary's railroad trains!
General Information and Statistics
The main and principal carrier of rail passenger services in Hungary is MÁV-Start (MÁV-START). It is a subsidiary of the state-owned railway company MÁV (Magyar Államvasutak), which is responsible for railway transportation in the country. In 2022, nearly 97 million passengers traveled on MAV-Start long-distance trains and 4.75 billion passenger-kilometers, up from 3.1 billion in 2021.
The length of the railway network is 7,893 km, 3,060 km of which are electrified.. Hungary has approximately 3,000 railway stations.
What connections to other countries there are.
There are frequent train services to all neighbouring countries including the Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Romania, Ukraine (Chop - Pass only valid till Zahony).
Are trains fast in Hungary in general? How much time to cross the country?
Railjet high-speed train. Being one of the most comfortable Hungarian trains. The Railjet has a maximum speed of 230 km/h (143 miles per hour), making it the fastest train running on Hungarian rail routes. The journey from Munich to Hamburg takes 6:30 hours and from Frankfurt am Main to Berlin 3:50 hours.
What railway companies are available?
In addition to MÁV, Hungary has a private railroad company, GySEV. GySEV, which stands for Győr-Sopron-Ebenfurti Vasút, operates mainly in the western part of Hungary and connects the cities of Győr and Sopron with Austria and Slovenia.
In addition, there are international operators such as RegioJet that offer international rail transportation connecting Budapest with cities in Austria, the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
What train types are available in Hungary
Hungary offers various types of trains to cater to different travel needs and preferences. The main train types available in Hungary include:
InterCity (IC): These are faster, long-distance trains that connect major cities within Hungary and also offer international routes to neighboring countries. InterCity trains provide comfortable seating and amenities, making them suitable for both domestic and cross-border travel.
EuroCity (EC): EuroCity trains are international high-quality trains that connect Hungary to other European countries. They offer a combination of comfort, speed, and scenic views, making them a popular choice for international travelers.
Railjet (RJ): Railjet is a high-speed train service that operates between Budapest, Vienna, Zurich, and Munich. These trains offer modern amenities and efficient travel options for passengers.
RegioJet: RegioJet is a private railway company that operates trains connecting Budapest to cities in Austria, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. They offer a variety of services, including economy and business class options.
Regional and Local Trains: Hungary also has a network of regional and local trains that serve smaller towns and cities, providing essential connectivity within the country.
Are there high-speed-trains available?
Hungary does not have true high-speed trains like some other countries, such as France or Japan. However, there are trains with speeds higher than traditional regional or local trains, providing a relatively fast and efficient trip.
The closest thing to high-speed trains in Hungary is the Railjet (RJ) train. Railjet trains run on international routes, connecting Budapest to cities such as Vienna, Zurich, and Munich. Although not categorized as high-speed trains, Railjet trains offer modern amenities, comfortable seats and faster travel times than conventional trains.
Most important train stations / hubs.
The main railway hubs in Hungary are Budapest, Szolnok, Győr, Debrecen, Szeged.
Websites to buy train tickets for Hungary?
https://www.mavcsoport.hu/en
Mobile apps to buy train tickets in Hungary?
MÁV has its own app.
Possible to buy a ticket at a railway station in Hungary?
You can save about 2 euros by booking tickets online for IC, EC or Railjet trains within Hungary.
If you want to book your ticket at the train station, the best option is to use ticket vending machines, as the ticket office staff may not speak English.
The big yellow machines are relatively easy to use due to good English translation and simple step-by-step instructions.
Tickets for all MAV online tickets booked outside Hungary must be obtained from ticket machines at stations; the card you used when booking online must be inserted to obtain the ticket, so be sure to bring it with you.
Thus, if you book train tickets to Hungary online, you can only collect them in Hungary.
Can I buy my ticket by phone?
You can book a ticket by calling MÁV customer service (MÁVDIREKT) on +36 1 3 49 49 49 49. With this phone number you can get more information about tickets, fines and other issues related to rail travel in Hungary.
Return the ticket.
National tickets can be refunded in the MÁV-START online ticketing system no later than 1 hour before the start of the ticket validity.
International tickets can be refunded according to the special conditions for each ticket.
If the ticket was purchased without registration or login, the refund of national tickets can be initiated by sending an e-mail to informacio@mav-start.hu or by contacting the MÁV-START Service Center no later than 1 hour before the start of the ticket validity.
When initiating a refund, the tickets are marked for refund and the refunds themselves are processed 7 days after the ticket expiration date.
When refunding online tickets, the ticket price reduced by the administration fee will only be refunded to the bank card associated with the card used for payment.
Train ticket prices
The cost of a ticket depends on the distance, the length of the journey and the benefits offered. 1st and 2nd class tickets are available, but not every train has a 1st class carriage.
On many long-distance trains, MÁV-START charges additional fees on top of the ticket price, such as the fast train surcharge, seat reservation or surcharge and seat reservation. To travel on these trains (usually semi-fast trains, fast trains, express trains, InterCity, EuroCity, EuroNight, Railjet), you must present both a ticket and a supplementary ticket. The surcharge may vary depending on the distance, the line selected, the time of travel and the date of ticket purchase.
You can buy a ticket from Budapest to Debrecen for only €8.15.
Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?
Start Europa
Non-refundable tickets in limited quantities at the best prices. Available on almost all long-distance day trains from and to Hungary. At ticket offices for travel between all stations in Hungary and the destination country (or vice versa), online and via app for direct trains only.
Price for second-class one way tickets from Budapest -
to Slovakia from 5 €
to Romania from 11 €
to Slovenia from 12 €
to Austria and the Czech Republic from 13 €
to Croatia from 15 €
to the Ukraine from 17 €
to Poland from 20 €
to Germany from 25 €
Where to find timetables.
Find train schedules on https://www.mavcsoport.hu/en
Buying tickets in advance or right before the train
If you are going to travel to neighboring countries from Hungary, it is better to buy a ticket in advance It doesn't matter how far ahead you book, the online prices for the domestic journeys are fixed.
Types of tickets.
The Eurail and Interrail Pass is available for Hungary. Good deal as you can travel on any train in Hungary
Also available tickets: Smart ticket (with supplement and reservation), 1st class supplementary ticket
New county and country passes will be introduced from 1 May, offering easy and affordable travel on MÁV-START, Volánbus, MÁV-HÉV, and GYSEV intercity services. The 30-day full-price duchy season ticket will be available for HUF 9,450 (EUR 25), while the country season ticket will cost double that price, HUF 18,900 (EUR 50),
Interrail/Eurail Passes in Hungary
The best option is to buy your Eurail or Interrail Pass on the official website using their app.
Saver price.
MAV and other rail companies offer special tickets that are non-refundable, but cheap. There are also flexible tickets, which allow you to get a refund, change your train connection or simply take any train that runs on the route, with no fixed departure time. Flexible tickets are more expensive.
Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?
Buy single tickets, not return tickets. This will give you more flexibility if you need to change your travel plans. It is not cheaper to buy return tickets.
Flexible tickets.
Flexible tickets are available. These are more expensive, but you can change your train connection, take any train on the route you booked or get a refund. When you select a train journey in the booking system, you will see the options available and can book the one you prefer.
Rules of boarding.
You will not need a passport on domestic trains in Hungary, but when traveling internationally, be sure to bring your ID card with you.
Discounts for group travel.
Group travel benefits are provided when transporting at least 6 passengers in a group organized by any person or organization from one departure station to one destination in one car, or when purchasing a ticket for at least 6 passengers. Discount:
10-19 persons: 20%
20-49 persons: 33%
From 50 persons: 50%
A family of 1 or 2 parents traveling with at least three children will receive a 90% discount
A family of one or more passengers traveling with a child under 18 years of age; 1 or 2 accompanying persons will receive a 33% discount.
Age groups and discounts.
MAV offers the following services. They may vary at other rail companies.
Accompanied children under 6 years old travel free in any class
Children from 6 to 14 years old receive a 50% discount on 2nd class tickets
Students receive a 50% discount only if they have a valid student ticket (For EU nationals).
Over 65 years old get 100% discount without restrictions on any domestic train; only with a valid ID (For EU nationals).
Young people under 26 years old (Friday-Sunday) get 33% discount from 10:00 Friday to 24:00 Sunday on any train.
Age limitations for minors.
Children from the age of 6 can travel unsupervised on Hungary's domestic trains.
Handicapped passengers.
Persons with disabilities and their relatives can obtain information and request services by calling the toll-free number +36 (80) 630 053.
The railway company must be notified of the request for assistance at least 48 hours in advance.
This service can be ordered online, in writing, by phone or by fax.
Seat reservations in trains in Hungary.
When purchasing tickets, you can additionally reserve a seat. Even if you bought a ticket without reserving a seat, you can reserve a seat later through the website. When purchasing tickets, there is an option "I only need to reserve a seat"
Select this option if you already have a ticket, pass or other travel entitlement and only need to reserve a seat or purchase an additional ticket. If you want to travel 1st class but already have a 2nd class ticket, you can also purchase an additional 1st class ticket here.
Comfort classes on the trains.
2nd class on every day and night trains. 1st class with more comfortable seats and on some routes extra services is available on day trains – in the Railjets to Austria, Germany and Switzerland even a higher level with Business Class.
Couchettes
Couchettes mean a comfortable and safe overnight facility for affordable prices. Four- or six-berth compartments are equipped with pillows, sheets and blankets – beds are made by the passengers. Compartments are co-educated, but on some routes also ladies’ compartments are available. Guests are welcome with mineral water and snack in the evening and simple breakfast in the morning.
Sleeping cars
Sleeping cars give more privacy and intimacy, close to hotel rooms. Compartments contain one, two or three beds and a washbasin, and sold either gender-sorted or for exclusively use. Ready-made beds with quilts await the passengers, as well an extended welcome package. In the morning feel free to choose your breakfast – if the train has a dining car, you can consume it even there.
Food and drink in trains / train restaurant in Hungary.
The only trains in Hungary that have on-board meals are some EU trains (but not all) and Railjet on the Budapest - Gyor - Vienna/Vienna route.
Therefore, you should buy food and drinks before boarding an IC train in Hungary and take them with you on the train.
Night trains in Hungary?
MÁV-START provides overnight journeys from Budapest to Stuttgart (via Wien and München), Zürich (via Wien, Innsbruck and Feldkirch), Berlin (via Bratislava and Wrocław) and Braşov (via Miercurea Ciuc) throughout the year. Beside the conventional 2nd class seats – as known from day trains – you can also choose couchettes and sleeping cars, where you can spend the night in real beds – safely and undisturbed thanks to the lockable doors and the steward, who also collects your tickets for controls on the way. Food and drink is included – but if it wasn’t enough, you can buy even more from a wide range at the stewards.
Are there trains transporting cars?
The only remaining night train service that offers car transport is from Innsbruck (Austria) to Hamburg.
Important train routes in Hungary.
Budapest - Debrecen/ from 2:58 hours / from 8.15 EUR / 1-2 trains per hour
Budapest - Szeged/ from 2:29 hours / from 6.30 EUR / 1 train per 1-2 hours
Budapest - Miskolc / from 2:50 hours / from 7.10 EUR / 1 train per 1-2 hours
Budapest - Pécs / from 2:58 hours / from 8.15 EUR / 1 train every 2 hours
Budapest - Győr / from 1:20 hours / from 5.25 EUR / every 30 minutes
Budapest - Székesfehérvár / from 0:45 hours / from 3.40 EUR / 3-4 trains per hour
Budapest - Kecskemét / from 1:17 hours / from 5.25 EUR / 1-2 trains per hour
Budapest - Szombathely / from 2:34 hours / from 8.15 EUR / 2-3 trains per hour
Budapest - Eger/ from 1:52 hours / from 6.65 EUR / 1 train per hour
International train routes.
Hungary is connected with 11 countries – among them all the neighbourhood ones and its capitals, and even to Czech Republic, Germany, Poland and Switzerland.
Tourist / scenic routes in Hungary.
• Danube Bend Scenic Train - This picturesque train journey takes you along the Danube River, passing through stunning landscapes and charming villages. The route runs from Budapest to Esztergom, passing by Visegrád and providing breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding hills. Esztergom is home to the largest basilica in Hungary, which is also a prominent landmark along the route.
• Lake Balaton Circle Train - This scenic railway trip circles around Lake Balaton, offering spectacular views of Hungary's largest lake. The journey takes you through picturesque vineyards, charming towns, and stunning vistas of the lake. You can hop on and off at various stops around the lake to explore different attractions and enjoy the local culture.
• Budapest-Nyíregyháza Express - This long-distance train journey takes you from the capital city, Budapest, to Nyíregyháza in northeastern Hungary. The route traverses through diverse landscapes, including the Great Hungarian Plain (Alföld), which is characterized by vast, flat fields. Nyíregyháza is known for its beautiful zoo and water park, making it a great destination for families.
• The Children's Railway (Gyermekvasút) - Located in the Buda hills of Budapest, the Children's Railway is a unique railway operated mainly by children under adult supervision. The line stretches through the forests and provides an enjoyable ride with scenic views. It is an excellent way to explore the natural beauty of the Buda hills and experience a fascinating piece of Hungarian history.
These scenic train routes in Hungary offer a delightful way to discover the country's diverse landscapes, from the Danube River to Lake Balaton and beyond. Whether you're interested in historic towns, natural beauty, or charming villages, these train journeys provide an unforgettable experience for train enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Luggage information.
Each passenger can take a maximum of 30 kg of hand luggage on the train at no extra charge. For children under 14 years of age this limit is 15 kg. The size of hand luggage must not exceed 30x50x80 cm per seat, except for baby strollers, umbrellas, canes, etc.
Some items and things cannot be carried in 1st class carriages. For more information about them, please contact the customer service office, ticket office or us by phone before traveling.
Bicycle on the train.
This information provides guidelines and conditions for transporting bicycles on MÁV trains. Passengers can transport bicycles on certain train cars, with specific rules depending on the type and size of the bicycle. Bicycles with a wheel size of 20 inches or less can be transported for free, either folded in the passenger compartment or at the end of the car without packaging, as long as they do not obstruct other passengers.
For larger bicycles, a bicycle ticket must be purchased. Tandem bicycles can only be transported in designated areas on specific trains, while bicycle trailers require additional tickets. Children's bicycles with a wheel size of less than 20 inches can be transported for free in the passenger compartment, given that they do not obstruct other passengers.
Group bicycle transportation is available for at least six bicycles on specific trains, but it requires prior notification and coordination with the railway company.
Ski or snowboard on the train.
Each passenger is entitled to free transportation of one hand baggage and one sled, one pair of skis, one bundle of wrapped tree saplings (up to 40 × 40 × 200 cm), one baby stroller, one wheelchair
Luggage lockers on the stations in Hungary.
A small number of stations in Hungary have luggage lockers, their opening hours coincide with station opening hours
Lost and Found Items.
Property lost on trains and at stations can be reported to the central number MÁVDIREKT +36 (1) 3 49 49 49 49, in the special information section. Please also contact several possible places in person, as the place where the item was deposited is not always the same as the place where it was lost. Lost and found is stored for 3 months.
Pets on the trains.
Live animals are allowed to be transported on MÁV trains, except for sick animals or those with contagious diseases. Dogs require a purchased live animal ticket, regardless of their size or whether they are on a leash or in a crate. Only blind dogs and service dogs of handicapped persons are allowed in the 1st class car and the buffet car.
Small live animals can be carried in 2nd class cars with a suitable carrier that ensures they cannot escape and won't cause any inconvenience to other passengers or train installations. Each passenger is allowed to take a maximum of two dogs on the train, and large dogs over 20 kg can only be transported at the end of the passenger car or in the multifunctional area on multiple unit trains. Dogs on a leash must wear a muzzle, and a vaccination certificate must be presented for dogs over 3 months old.
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