Classic Night train · MÁV (Hungarian State Railways)
Budapest to Bucharest night train
Everything you need to plan the Budapest–Bucharest sleeper: operators, cabins, times, prices and rail-pass rules.
Duration
15h 27m
Frequency
Daily
Departure
19:10
Arrival
10:37
Distance
870 km
night
1 night onboard
Check availability 
From €39
From €39 We link to the operator — we never mark up the fare.
Cabins & typical prices
Couchette From €39
Sleeper Cabin From €69
Private Cabin From €162
Why take this train
Known as the 'Ister', jointly run by MÁV and Romania's CFR- Passes through Transylvania, calling at Sibiu, Sighișoara, Brașov and Sinaia
- A 2026 track closure required a bus replacement between Brașov and Miercurea Ciuc from late May to mid-September
- Runs daily in both directions
- Direct link between two national capitals without flying
Rail passes & reservations
EurailYes
InterrailYes
Reservation requiredYes
Reservation compulsory, recommended well ahead in high season (May-September).
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Budapest to Bucharest night train take?
The journey takes about 15h 27m, travelling overnight so you arrive the next morning.
How much does the Budapest–Bucharest sleeper cost?
Fares start from around €39 and rise with demand and cabin type. Booking early gets the lowest prices.
Is the Budapest to Bucharest train covered by Eurail or Interrail?
Yes — this route is covered by rail passes, though you still pay a reservation and cabin supplement.
What cabin types are available?
You can choose from Seat, Couchette, Sleeper Cabin, Private Cabin. A reservation for your berth is reservation required.