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Take the train from Lyon to Budapest in 16 hours 24 minutes
If you want to travel from Lyon to Budapest by train, you've come to the right place.
You can expect the journey from Lyon to Budapest by train to take around 19 hours 57 minutes. If you want to get there as quickly as possible, it can take as little as 16 hours 24 minutes on the fastest services. You’ll usually find around 13 trains per day running on this route, which spans 684 miles (1101 km). You’ll have to make 2 changes along the way on your journey to Budapest.
Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to search for cheap ticket prices and we'll show you how much you can save. Tickets from Lyon to Budapest start from £97.84 when you book in advance.
If you want to know more about the journey, keep reading for timetables, tips on finding cheap tickets and FAQs, including first and last train times. Want to go straight to booking? Start a search with us today!
Lyon to Budapest by train
It takes an average of 19h 57m to travel from Lyon to Budapest by train, over a distance of around 684 miles (1101 km). There are normally 13 trains per day travelling from Lyon to Budapest and tickets for this journey start from £97.84 when you book in advance.
Cheap train tickets from Lyon 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 Lyon 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 Lyon 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 Lyon to Budapest take?
The average journey time by train between Lyon and Budapest is 19 hours and 57 minutes, with around 13 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 Lyon and Budapest by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Lyon to Budapest is 16 hours and 24 minutes.
How much does the train from Lyon to Budapest cost?
Train ticket prices from Lyon to Budapest can start from as little as £97.84 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
Is there a direct train from Lyon to Budapest?
No, there are no direct train services from Lyon to Budapest. Travelling from Lyon to Budapest by train will require a minimum of 2 changes.
What time does the first train from Lyon to Budapest leave?
The first train from Lyon to Budapest leaves at 06:38. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Lyon to Budapest leave?
The last train from Lyon to Budapest leaves at 23:20. 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 Lyon and Budapest by train?
Trains travelling from Lyon to Budapest cover a distance of around 684 miles (1101 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Budapest to Lyon.