How to get from Budapest to Ljubljana

Traveling from Budapest, Hungary’s vibrant capital on the Danube, to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming green capital, is a popular route for both tourists and locals exploring Central Europe. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous weekend getaway or a longer journey through the Balkans, this trip offers a variety of transport options to suit every budget, schedule, and travel style.

The distance between the two cities is approximately 435–457 kilometers, and the journey can be made in as little as 4.5 hours by car or as long as 8 hours by train or plane with layovers. You can opt for a comfortable direct bus, a scenic train ride, a budget-friendly carpool, or take to the skies with one of several flight connections—some direct, others involving airport transfers.

Table of contents

• Bus, Train, or Shuttle: Budget-Friendly Ground Travel
• Flying Between Budapest and Ljubljana
• Driving, Rideshare and Other Transport Tips

Bus, Train, or Shuttle: Budget-Friendly Ground Travel

When traveling from Budapest to Ljubljana without breaking the bank, ground transportation options like buses, trains, and shuttles stand out as reliable and accessible choices. Each option caters to different travel styles—whether you're a budget traveler, a scenic route enthusiast, or someone who prefers door-to-door convenience.

1. Bus: A Practical and Popular Choice

Taking the bus is a tried-and-true way to travel between Budapest and Ljubljana, offering a good balance between price and comfort. FlixBus runs regular services between the cities, usually departing from Budapest-Kelenföld station and arriving at the Ljubljana bus station near the city center. The ride takes around 6 hours and costs between €35 and €50.

Modern coaches often come equipped with reclining seats, Wi-Fi, charging ports, and air-conditioning, making the journey relatively comfortable. Since it's a direct connection, you can avoid unnecessary transfers or layovers—ideal for travelers who prefer simplicity and minimal hassle.

Pro Tip: Arrive early at Kelenföld Station, especially in high season. It's a bustling transport hub and offers easy access to the beautiful Gellért Thermal Baths or Memento Park, a museum of Communist-era statues just a short ride away.

Gellért Baths

• Location: Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118 Budapest

• Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM

• Cost: Entry starts at €19

• Features: Famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, natural thermal waters, and tranquil atmosphere; includes a wave pool and massage services.

2. Train: A Scenic Ride Through Central Europe

If you enjoy watching rolling landscapes through panoramic windows and stretching your legs during the journey, the train is an excellent choice. Operated by Hungarian Railways (MÁV), the route between Budapest-Kelenföld and Ljubljana takes approximately 7 hours and 35 minutes and is one of the cheapest options, with tickets starting from €21.

Although the train is slower than the bus, it provides a more relaxed and scenic experience, passing through quaint Hungarian towns and green valleys in Slovenia. Two direct services run daily, and it’s best to reserve your ticket early during the tourist season, especially if you prefer window seating.

If your train schedule allows for it, consider arriving in Budapest a few hours early to stroll through Buda Castle, a UNESCO-listed complex that offers panoramic views and fascinating history.

• Location: Szent György tér 2, 1014 Budapest

• Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Cost: Castle grounds are free; museum entry starts at €8

• Features: UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the Budapest History Museum and Hungarian National Gallery; offers breathtaking views of the Danube.

Bonus tip: As your train approaches Ljubljana, keep an eye out for views of the Julian Alps on clear days. It’s a subtle yet memorable introduction to Slovenia’s natural charm.

Once in Ljubljana, consider walking to the historic Ljubljana Castle, which is easily reachable from the central train station and offers breathtaking views of the city and beyond.

3. Shuttle: Comfortable and Customized

For travelers who want the convenience of direct pickup and drop-off, shuttle services are a top-tier ground travel option. Companies like GoOpti and Eurobusways offer flexible booking with hotel-to-hotel transportation. Though a bit more expensive—typically between €60 and €90—shuttles save you from navigating transit stations or dragging luggage across unfamiliar streets.

Shuttles are especially useful for early-morning departures or late-night arrivals, as they operate outside the fixed schedules of trains and buses. You can also choose private shuttles for groups or families, making them a convenient and stress-free alternative.

Similarly, if you're in Budapest for a night, stroll through the historic Jewish Quarter and explore landmarks like the richly adorned Kazinczy Street Synagogue, which pairs beautifully with nearby ruin pubs and street art.

Staying in Ljubljana overnight? Consider booking accommodation near Prešeren Square, where you’ll find cozy guesthouses, historic landmarks, and easy transport connections.

4. Which Ground Option Is Right for You?

Ultimately, your choice depends on your travel priorities. If you're looking for the cheapest way to travel, the train wins. If you're after comfort and simplicity, shuttles are best. And for a balance between cost and convenience, buses remain the most popular option.

If you have time before departure, a day cruise on the Danube offers a slow and scenic introduction to the city—an ideal counterbalance to a long journey ahead.

Flying Between Budapest and Ljubljana

Flying between Budapest and Ljubljana may seem like the quickest option on paper, but the reality is a bit more nuanced. While direct flights are limited and often expensive, connecting flights via nearby cities can offer a viable—albeit more complicated—alternative. This section explores whether taking to the skies is truly worth it.

1. Direct Flights: Limited and Pricey

Currently, direct flights from Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) to Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU) are relatively rare. Major carriers such as Lufthansa, Swiss, and Air Serbia occasionally offer one-stop routes, but flight times can stretch to 6–8 hours due to layovers, often in Vienna, Zurich, or Belgrade.

The cost can vary widely depending on the airline, time of year, and how far in advance you book, with prices ranging from €100 to €250+. When you factor in airport transfers, security checks, and layovers, flying often takes more time and effort than ground alternatives.

2. Airport Transfers and Travel Time

To fly, you'll need to get from central Budapest to the airport, which typically takes 35–45 minutes via bus, taxi, or train. Upon arrival in Ljubljana, the airport is located roughly 25 km from the city center, requiring another 30–45 minutes by shuttle or taxi.

Alternative Nearby Airports:

Klagenfurt Airport (KLU) – Some routes involve flying here and then taking a shuttle to Ljubljana (adds 2–3 hours).

Vienna International Airport (VIE) – Sometimes used for connecting flights but adds significant detours and transfer time.

If you do connect through Vienna, you’ll notice a more imperial vibe—but many find Budapest’s eclectic mix of grand and gritty more compelling, especially visible from the Chain Bridge, which unites Buda and Pest with postcard-worthy views.

• Location: Széchenyi Lánchíd, spanning the Danube between Buda and Pest

• Hours: Open 24/7 for pedestrians and vehicles

• Cost: Free for pedestrians

• Features: Historic 19th-century suspension bridge with stunning views of Budapest; an essential connection between the city’s two halves.

3. Is Flying Worth It?

Flying might be worthwhile if you’re:

• Connecting from an international long-haul flight

• Booking a last-minute trip and flights happen to be competitively priced

• Traveling with points or airline status that grants perks

Otherwise, most travelers find that buses, trains, or even driving themselves offer a better combination of speed, price, and convenience.

Driving, Rideshare & Other Transport Tips

If you value flexibility and freedom during your journey from Budapest to Ljubljana, traveling by car or using rideshare services might be the ideal choice. These options not only let you control your schedule, but also open up the possibility to explore hidden gems along the way—something public transport can't always offer.

1. Driving Yourself: Scenic and Independent

Driving from Budapest to Ljubljana is one of the fastest and most scenic ways to travel between the two capitals. The route covers about 434 km (270 miles) and takes approximately 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and border crossing times. The drive primarily follows the M7 and A1 highways, both well-maintained and clearly marked.

For a memorable rest stop, consider pulling off near Heroes’ Square, one of Budapest’s most iconic monuments, located just off Andrássy Avenue and surrounded by museums and city park greenery.

Costs to consider:

Rental car: €40–€80/day depending on the vehicle and provider

Fuel: ~€40–€60 for the full trip

Tolls & vignettes: Hungary and Slovenia both require vignettes (electronic road tax stickers). Expect to pay ~€10 for Hungary and ~€15 for Slovenia.

Important: Always check local road rules. In Slovenia, headlights must be on at all times, and a reflective vest is mandatory if you exit your car on the highway.

Bonus detour idea: On your way, consider a short stop at Lake Balaton, often called the “Hungarian Sea.” It’s only 90 minutes from Budapest and a refreshing break en route to Slovenia.

• Location: 120 km southwest of Budapest, accessible via M7 highway or train.

• Hours: Public beaches are generally open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (seasonal).

• Cost: Beach access ranges from €2 to €5 per day.

• Features: Central Europe’s largest lake, with beaches, water sports, and charming towns like Balatonfüred and Tihany. A must-visit for relaxation and adventure.

2. Rideshare: Cheap and Social

If you're on a tighter budget or want a more eco-friendly alternative, ridesharing is a smart solution. Platforms like BlaBlaCar often have drivers offering one-way trips from Budapest to Ljubljana for as little as €20–€25.

Benefits of ridesharing:

• Lower cost

• Flexible departure points

• Great for solo travelers looking to meet others

However, rideshare availability depends on demand and scheduling, so you may need to check several days in advance or be flexible with timing. It's also wise to verify your driver's reviews and vehicle details for safety.

3. Things to Know Before Hitting the Road

4. Why Driving May Be the Most Rewarding Option

While other modes of transportation are more straightforward, driving yourself provides unmatched opportunities to explore off-the-beaten-path highlights. For instance, on the Slovenian side, you could make a detour to Postojna Cave or Lake Bled, both within easy reach of Ljubljana.