For a long time, the train ride to the Serbian capital was a bit of a test of patience. Anyone wanting to travel to Belgrade by train had to change trains in Budapest. Then came the good news: Starting in fall 2026, trains would run directly! Unfortunately, however, this plan could not be implemented due to problems on the Hungarian and Serbian sides. Now, however, the new date for the direct connection from Vienna has finally been announced.
The new EuroCity trains operated by ÖBB and Hungary’s MÁV will cover the entire route in about 6.5 hours. Two round-trips per day in each direction are scheduled to run between the two capitals. From Vienna Central Station, the journey will initially take about 2 hours and 40 minutes to Budapest.
The trains then continue on to their destination station in just over three hours, making stops along the way at Kiskunhalas, Subotica, and Novi Sad.
Historical Names and Ticket Prices
The new connections are reviving an old tradition: The trains will operate under the historic names “Avala” and “Ivo Andrić.” This through route is available again for the first time since 2019.
If you book early, you can secure the early-bird price starting at around 40 euros for the entire route. Regular tickets are expected to cost at least 43.90 euros. The one-way trip between Budapest and Belgrade will cost about 25 to 26 euros.
Important Information for Travel Planning
An exact start date has not yet been set, as the new rail line in Hungary is still awaiting approval. However, there’s one thing you absolutely must keep in mind when planning your trip south: Serbia is not part of the Schengen Area. This means you’ll definitely need your passport or ID card for border checks on the train.
🚆 Route: Vienna Central Station – Belgrade (direct train)
⏱️ Travel time: approx. 6.5 hours (no transfers)
💶 Price: Early bird fares starting at approx. €40, regular fares starting at €43.90
📅 Launch: Expected sometime in 2027
🛂 Important: Passport or ID card required for border control
