Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.
Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.
Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.
For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.
Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!
Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.
Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.
Overview: Car trip from Vienna to Budapest
A car trip from Vienna to Budapest isn’t just the best way to travel between two of the most beautiful capital cities in Central Europe. The ride can be just as exciting as the cities themselves when you add fascinating sightseeing stops along the way. When you do, traveling between these cities turns into a magical journey of discovery through Austria and Hungary that will become an unforgettable part of your holiday, not just a car ride. Enhanced by a private driver with local knowledge and the possibility to personalize your journey, you can discover Central Europe at your own pace in comfort.
Rather than driving yourself, with Daytrip’s door-to-door service, your private driver will meet you directly at the pick-up location of your choosing in Vienna, ensuring a stress-free beginning to your journey, avoiding any hassle of carrying heavy luggage around and navigating through a busy city.
Vienna’s picturesque architecture fades away to reveal calmer and more natural landscapes. While the route is primarily highway-driven, you will be treated to views of the surrounding sleepy countryside and lush green fields. Relax and enjoy the comforts of your clean and modern vehicle; climate control ensures that whatever the weather you will be comfortable and complimentary water will keep you hydrated.
With Daytrip, you can add interesting sightseeing stops to your itinerary. Whether you want to stop off and discover enchanting historical monuments such as Lichtenstein Castle, explore other cities such as Gyor, Esztergom, or Bratislava, or shop ‘til you drop at the Parndorf Outlet, our handpicked recommendations offer something for everyone. If you are interested in alternative stops to those we offer on our website, feel free to use our custom route form to create the journey of your dreams! Your journey will be enhanced by your knowledgeable driver, who will offer you local tips and stories to make the most of your itinerary.
As you enter Budapest, magnificent monuments will reveal themselves at every turn. Your driver will expertly navigate the complex streets of Budapest to your chosen drop-off point, after which a city full of history and culture awaits you.
By traveling by private car service from Vienna to Budapest, you're treating yourself to the most convenient, relaxing, and flexible transportation option. Not only will you get to your destination quicker and with less hassle than taking the bus or train, but you will also have the opportunity to turn your trip into part of your holiday with sightseeing stops that allow you to discover more of Central Europe.
About Budapest
Budapest was founded some 2000 years ago as a Celtic settlement. When the Romans arrived in the 1st century, they established a fort on the site, which quickly grew into the city of Aquincum, the capital of Lower Pannonia. Since then, Budapest has remained a political and cultural center. The Hungarian tribes made Budapest the capital of the Kingdom of Hungary around 1000 AD, it was a major Renaissance center in Eastern Europe, and the co-capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Spread across both sides of the Danube River, Budapest was actually three separate cities (Obuda, Buda, and Pest) until they were unified in 1873.
Today, Budapest is a bustling, modern city. It’s the capital and most populous city of Hungary, the largest city on the Danube River, and the ninth-largest city in the European Union. The superlatives continue; Budapest sits on the world’s largest thermal cave system, and it’s home to the third-largest parliament, and one of the largest synagogues.
Budapest’s long history and well-preserved architecture have earned its historic center, on both sides of the Danube, recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Buda side, the woody hills are crowned by the Royal Palace, which now houses the Hungarian National Gallery. The palace was razed and rebuilt several times, and the current complex was built after World War II in a Stalinist Baroque style, which eschewed most ornamentation that could have been a reminder of the former regime. Surrounding the palace, the Castle Quarter is filled with Medieval, Baroque, and Neoclassical buildings, from the Romantic Fisherman's Bastion to the Gothic Matthias Church.
Buda is connected to Pest on the other side of the river by several bridges, including the famous Széchenyi Chain Bridge. The riverfront is dominated by the neo-Gothic Parliament building. This massive edifice, the third-largest parliament building in the world, is undoubtedly the symbol of Budapest; Hungary’s Holy Crown is even kept here. Piling on Pest’s hefty attractions, the Dohany Street Synagogue, built in the 1850s on the site of Theodor Herzl's birthplace, is one of the world’s largest synagogues with a capacity just shy of 3,000.
While Pest has plenty of sightseeing attractions, it’s more the “do” side of Budapest. A few blocks from the Dohany Street Synagogue is the New York Cafe, which has been called the world’s most beautiful for its decadent neo-Baroque decor. Dozens of thermal baths can be found around the city, with the Szechenyi Thermal Baths holding the title of the largest in Europe. After the sun sets, Budapest's famous nightlife comes alive. The Mega Clubs draw thousands, but there’s another option that’s distinctively Budapest: ruin bars.
Originally pop-ups making use of abandoned spaces, many have become permanent fixtures with their own distinctive decor and identities - from pioneering Szimpla Kert (which now has an outdoor area, plus 2 floors and 9 bars) to the hip Doboz (literally “box” because it’s in a small courtyard). And for a morning pick me up, head to the New York Cafe for a coffee and traditional Hungarian cake. Housed in the former New York Life Insurance Company headquarters, the opulent Renaissance Revival decor has earned it the title of “the world’s most beautiful cafe”.
From Vienna to Budapest: Travel tips
Traveling from Vienna to Budapest is a journey from one magnificent capital city to another. To ensure you make the most of your journey, please consider these important travel tips for your car trip:
Choose a reliable and experienced provider for your trip
Make sure that you choose a provider such as Daytrip, that guarantees comfortable, modern cars and professional, experienced drivers with local knowledge that speak English. This ensures that your journey is smooth and stress-free.
Chat with your driver for some local tips
While your driver is not a professional tour guide, they will be willing to share with you some local tips and information about the area, turning your trip into a fascinating experience and allowing you to make the most out of your journey.
Consider adding sightseeing stops along the way
The route from Vienna to Budapest is lined with fascinating places you may wish to consider adding to your itinerary. From the stunning city of Esztergom to the historical landmark of Liechtenstein Castle, sightseeing stops turn your transfer from a simple journey to an adventurous experience! We recommend you add these sightseeing stops to your itinerary well in advance as your driver may not have time for last-minute additions on the day of your trip. If there is somewhere you would like to stop that is not listed on our website, you can just use Daytrip’s custom route form to tell us where you’d like to stop and for how long.
Opt for a scenic route
While the most direct ride from Vienna to Budapest is primarily highway-driven, you can tailor your trip to be more scenic. Whether you desire to drive along the serene Danube River, through a vibrant city, or through peaceful countryside roads, please let us know, and we can assist you with arranging this for an additional charge. You just need to contact us in advance.
How to get from Vienna to Budapest
Planning how to get from elegant Vienna to bustling Budapest is a key part of your travel experience, with many different transport options available. Choosing a private car service is ultimately the best way, being the most convenient and flexible, saving you time and energy for exploring Budapest!
From Vienna to Budapest by car
The car trip from Vienna to Budapest is approximately 152 miles (245 kilometers) and takes around 2.5 hours. The journey time can vary depending on factors, such as traffic, especially during the high season. While convenient, driving a rental car in Vienna and Budapest can be difficult and expensive, especially when navigating the complex city streets and finding scarce parking spots.
From Vienna to Budapest by train
There are several direct trains from Vienna to Budapest every day. The earliest departs at 6:00AM, and the last train is at 9:40 PM. The train ride takes between 2.5-3 hours and tickets cost 40 EUR (50 USD) on average. When weighing the time and cost, remember you also have to get to and from the train station, and the trains can be busy so you have to handle your luggage in a crowded and stressful environment.
From Vienna to Budapest by bus
There are multiple direct buses from Vienna to Budapest daily. The bus trip takes around 3 hours and tickets cost 26 EUR (29 USD) on average. There is additional travel time and cost in getting to and from the bus station, as well as the hassle of lugging your luggage around busy terminals.
From Vienna to Budapest flight
Another public transportation option is to travel by airplane which takes just 45 minutes. While the quickest option at first glance, you have to consider that you should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your flight, and since both airports are not in the city center, there’s additional time and cost getting to and from the airport. Flying is also more expensive, and you miss the chance to take sightseeing stops along the way and discover more of Austria and Hungary.
From Vienna to Budapest with Daytrip
Using a car service with a private driver is the best way to get from Vienna to Budapest. Daytrip offers door-to-door service, so you will be picked up directly at the pick-up point of your choosing in Vienna and be dropped off at wherever you want in Budapest. You’re ensured a relaxing experience, free from worry about handling your heavy luggage, planning your trip around public transportation and navigating around a complex city. Private transfers can be scheduled at any time of the day, ensuring you have the opportunity to see all of Vienna before heading off to discover Budapest.
With private transfers, you have the benefit of being able to fully customize your trip. You can choose the type of vehicle you travel in, from traveling in style in a luxury sedan to a spacious and comfortable van. You also have the option to add sightseeing stops, turning your trip into an exciting sightseeing journey. Whether you are looking to discover another historical city such as Gyor, Esztergom, or Bratislava, or even just to stop off at a local cafe and enjoy a slice of apple strudel, with private transfers, it is possible to take advantage of the route and discover some hidden gems of Central Europe otherwise not possible with a direct bus or train.
Traveling by private car also allows you the benefit of having an experienced driver who will be able to bestow local knowledge to you about the area. The route from Vienna to Budapest, although primarily highway driven, is surrounded with luscious green fields, picturesque villages, and nearby cities perfect for a sightseeing stop, and so with your private driver, you will be able to experience the region from the eyes of a local.
While there are many transportation options to choose from, the best way is to take a private car service, where the door-to-door service, stress-free luggage handling, and customizable aspects allow you to relax and immerse yourself in the captivating culture of Central Europe.
Things to do when you get to Budapest
As one of the largest cities in Europe, there’s no shortage of things to do in Budapest. Whether your interests lie in history and architecture or hopping between spas and bars, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied. In fact, if you were just planning to come for a day trip, you might want to stay longer!
Conquer Castle Hill
Every visit to Budapest should begin at the historic Castle Hill. Start at the Romanesque Revival Fisherman’s Bastion. With its 7 towers symbolizing the 7 chieftains who founded Hungary, it is one of Budapest’s World Heritage Sites and downright whimsical. But it’s the view across the Danube, dominated by the massive parliament building, that’s the star of the show. Before you get to the Fisherman’s Bastion, you’ll probably be distracted by the pretty, neo-Gothic Matthias Church with its ornate belfry and colorful tiled roof. It’s worth looking around inside. Even though it’s largely reconstructed following heavy damage in World War II, the church’s history goes back to Saint Stephen in the 11th century.
Learn About Hungarian Culture at the Royal Palace
Rebuilt following its destruction in World War II, the new Royal Palace alludes to the Baroque building that once stood here, but through a socialist lens that’s removed any “excessive” ornamentation. The grounds are free to roam and a good place to take in the unusual architecture, but the museums inside are well worth visiting for a look at Hungarian history and culture. The Hungarian National Gallery is dedicated to works by Hungarian artists, the National Library holds a copy of every book published in the Hungarian language, and the Budapest History Museum traces the city’s past back to prehistory.
Regale in the Parliament Building
The biggest (literally) attraction in Budapest is the neo-Gothic Parliament Building. Budapest’s most iconic monument is even more impressive up close. It’s worth touring the interior to see the medieval Holy Crown of Hungary and coronation regalia - it’s the only full set to have survived in Europe.
Visit the Dohany Street Synagogue
Continue your adventures in outsized architecture with a visit to the Dohany Street Synagogue. Built in the 1850s on the site of Theodor Herzl's birthplace, the beautiful example of the Moorish Revival marks the start of the old Jewish Quarter, where the Nazis created the Jewish ghetto during World War II. The guided tour is excellent for insights into the synagogue’s history and the local Jewish community. It’s 9000 HUF (around $25) to go inside, but the museum, memorial garden, and cemetery are very moving.
Get Some Retail Therapy
The big-name luxury brands can be found on Andrássy Avenue, but you definitely want to peruse Paloma to see goods made by local designers. It’s a great place to get a unique souvenir, and between the shops and the beautiful 19th-century building, you could easily spend a day here.
Soak in the Spas
If you’re ever feeling sore, tired, or want to relax, take a soak in one of the many natural spas around Budapest, fed by the world’s largest thermal cave system. The Széchenyi Baths are the most popular with locals. They’re the largest in Europe, and the neo-Renaissance main building is nice to look at while you soak. Széchenyi even has “sparties” on Saturdays with DJs and a bar. There are plenty of other options if you prefer something quieter, like the beautiful Art Nouveau Gellért Baths, or the Rudas Baths, which have been in operation since the 16th century. Regardless of where you go, bring swimwear, a towel, and a pair of flip-flops (most sell these if you don’t have them).
Revel in the Ruin Bars
After dark, Budapest nightlife is world famous (they even made a movie about it). The big clubs attract thousands, but not everyone is into that scene. However, there is one side of Budapest nightlife everyone should experience at least once: a ruin bar. Appropriately named as they originally sprung up in abandoned spaces, many have become permanent. Szimpla Kert was one of the first, and now has an outdoor area, plus 2 floors and 9 bars where you can sit and enjoy the atmosphere with a beer or cocktail.
Your driver will meet you at your address in Vienna.
You’ll travel in comfort for 2 h 40 min.
Your driver will drop you off at your address in Budapest.
244 km
2 h 40 min
Good to know
Children
If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!
Pets
Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.
Tips
Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).
Luggage
Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm
Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm
Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.
Payment methods
Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!
Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,500+ cities around the world.
Questions & Answers about Traveling from Vienna to Budapest
What is the cost of a car service from Vienna to Budapest?
Prices vary depending on a variety of factors such as your choice of vehicle, seasonality, and availability. Book in advance to ensure you get the best price. You can expect to pay between €219 to €343 for a one-way trip without sightseeing stops. Daytrip's prices are per vehicle, not per passenger, so for groups of 7 passengers, the price can be as low as €48 per person.
What is the best way to travel from Vienna to Budapest?
The best way to travel from Vienna to Budapest is by private car service like Daytrip. It offers you the option to turn your trip into an exciting experience that is stress-free, relaxing, and flexible.
How long does the car trip take?
The drive from Vienna to Budapest takes approximately 2.5 hours, but depending on traffic conditions, travel time can vary, especially in the peak season.
Is there a direct public transportation option from Vienna to Budapest?
There are direct public transportation options from Vienna to Budapest. Direct train, bus, and airplane links run regularly, although these options are more time-consuming and less comfortable and flexible than a private car service.
How far is it from Vienna to Budapest?
The distance is approximately 152 miles or 245 kilometers.
Are there any travel tips for making the journey more enjoyable?
We recommend you add some sightseeing stops to your itinerary when booking to enhance your journey and make sure to chat to your driver to gain some local knowledge of the region.
Can I make a day trip from Vienna to Budapest?
Yes, if you’re pressed for time you can do a day trip and manage to see the main monuments in Budapest.
Visit these sights on the way
Liechtenstein castle
Constructed by the Liechtenstein dynasty’s founder around 1130, the castle passed into the hands of other nobility and was only reacquired by the dynasty in 1807. Ancestral seat of Liechtenstein Princes
Parndorf Outlet
Over 100 designer labels discounted up to 70% await in one of Austria's best and biggest designer outlets, the McArthurGlen Parndorf. Shop ‘til you drop!
Bratislava
Today’s exciting and dynamic capital of Slovakia is steeped in the history and influence of the Romans, the Celts, and the Slavs and is well-known for its role in Jewish history A city that feels like a town
Gyor
Situated half-way between Vienna and the Hungarian capital, Gyor is the richest town in terms of historic buildings outside of Budapest. A historic Hungarian treasure-trove
Pannonhalma Archabbey
The Benedictine Pannonhalma Archabbey built in 996 is one of the oldest historical monuments in Hungary and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A cultural and historic delight
Esztergom
Esztergom sits on the bank of the River Danube on the border with Slovakia and is the seat of the Catholic Church in Hungary The cradle of Hungary
