How to Find Train Times for Hungarian Railways

Hungary relies heavily on the railway system for transportation and international travel. Hungarian State Railways (MAV) is one of the most popular ways to travel and brings an extensive rail system infrastructure to the smaller towns. Follow these steps to start planning your trip.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A computer with Internet access and a printer

Find Train Times for Hungarian State Railways

1. Visit the Hungarian State Railways Web site (see Resources below) for information on train times. You will not be able to find out any information in English over the phone.

2. Select the origination location and type in the "From" box or click on the link for a complete listing of origination place names arranged alphabetically.

3. Select your date of travel.

4. Type in or select your destination.

5. Select any optional boxes for direct connections, reduced fare options and bicycle transportation.

6. Click the large "OK" button.

7. Review the train times tables.

8. Select the information you need and print it.

Things to Know Before Travelling by Train in Hungary

9. Check your bags carefully. Train luggage allowances are 35 kilograms for adults, 15 kilograms for children.

10. Create a flexible schedule. Many international trains arrive in and depart from Budapest every day.

11. Investigate Inter-rail all-zone passes, which offer unlimited travel in 29 countries, including Hungary, for a limited number of days in second class.

12. Consider a Eurailpass, which offers unlimited travel in first class accommodations through 17 European countries for a specified period of time.

13. Purchase tickets. Fares for travelers leaving Hungary must be paid in convertible currency. Seat reservations are advised.

14. Take your pets to the vet. Any pets you take traveling will require documentation, including health and vaccination certificates, which are no more than one week old when you arrive.

Tips & Warnings

• Intercity trains are cleaner than regular or international trains and offer reserved seating but you must reserve several days in advance to secure a ticket.
• Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand may enter the country without a visa and may stay up to 30 days without additional permits.
• Hungarian currency is the forint. In 2006, the US dollar was worth roughly 225 forint; the Euro is worth approximately 280 forint.
• Most drivers do not offer right-of-way to pedestrians. Be careful when traveling by foot in cities.
• Vegetarians will find it difficult to eat in Hungarian restaurants. Vegans may find it impossible.
• You will only be able to purchase international train tickets in person at the train station by showing your passport.