Trains from Bilbao to Budapest
is Europe’s leading platform for train and bus tickets
Compare prices from over 270 rail and coach companies in Europe
Buy your tickets with us and easily find them on your phone
Safely pay with PayPal, Visa and all international payment cards
What customers say about Trainline
Read real reviews from real users
How to travel from Bilbao to Budapest by train
Want to find out more about taking the train from Bilbao to Budapest? Look no further.
There are around 2 trains per day running between Bilbao and Budapest, which usually take 38 hours 14 minutes to complete the 1103 miles (1774 km) journey. It can take as little as 37 hours 2 minutes on the fastest services though, if you want to get there as quickly as possible. Although there aren't any direct services on this line, it's still easy to travel to Budapest from Bilbao, you'll just need to make 5 changes along the way.
You can save money on train tickets from Bilbao to Budapest if you book in advance. Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to compare ticket prices and get the cheapest fares.
Want to book your train tickets now? Just start a search with us today. If you want to find out more about the journey, read on for timetables (including first and last train times), FAQs and tips on how to book cheap train tickets.
Cheap train tickets from Bilbao to Budapest
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Bilbao to Budapest by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
Journey details
Want to know more about your journey from Bilbao to Budapest? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How long does the train from Bilbao to Budapest take?
The average journey time by train between Bilbao and Budapest is 38 hours and 14 minutes, with around 2 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
What's the fastest journey time between Bilbao and Budapest by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Bilbao to Budapest is 37 hours and 2 minutes.
Is there a direct train from Bilbao to Budapest?
No, there are no direct train services from Bilbao to Budapest. Travelling from Bilbao to Budapest by train will require a minimum of 5 changes.
What time does the first train from Bilbao to Budapest leave?
The first train from Bilbao to Budapest leaves at 07:00. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Bilbao to Budapest leave?
The last train from Bilbao to Budapest leaves at 17:35. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Bilbao and Budapest by train?
Trains travelling from Bilbao to Budapest cover a distance of around 1103 miles (1774 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Budapest to Bilbao.