From Budapest, travelers can reach Vienna in just 2.5 hours, thanks to the frequent railjet and MÁV-START EuroCity trains. For those seeking a charming seasonal experience, MÁV-START offers convenient services with guaranteed seating and attractive fares.

Additionally, a special one-day train from Pécs (southwestern Hungary) to Zagreb ensures everyone can enjoy the renowned Christmas market in the Croatian capital.

Advent EuroCity Service to Vienna

Vienna, famous for its enchanting Christmas markets, is a must-visit destination during Advent.

To accommodate the surge in holiday travelers, the Advent EuroCity service will operate on Saturdays - November 30, and December 7, 14, and 21.

Departing Budapest Keleti station at 8:01 a.m., this train reaches Vienna’s Main Station (Wien Hauptbahnhof) by late morning.

The return journey leaves Vienna at 6:04 p.m., allowing passengers ample time to explore Vienna’s festive attractions, such as the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz or the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market.

With START Europa tickets, travelers can secure seats in advance, ensuring a comfortable journey. Discounts are available for children, with those under six traveling free and children aged 6-14 years paying just EUR 5 when accompanied by an adult.

Special Train to Zagreb’s Christmas Market

For a unique holiday experience, the Zagreb Advent Express offers a delightful day trip from Pécs to Zagreb’s renowned Christmas market. Zagreb’s festive fair, repeatedly voted Europe’s best Christmas market, offers a magical atmosphere with artistic performances, traditional Croatian delicacies, and activities for all ages.

The train departs from Pécs at 6:06 a.m. on December 14, and makes several stops before arriving in Zagreb. Round-trip tickets cost EUR 54 for adults and EUR 38 for children.

Travelers can also indulge in festive culinary delights during their journey. Railjet trains feature bistro sections, while EuroCity trains offer special seasonal menus in their catering cars.

This year’s offerings include holiday favorites such as fish soup, plum soup with whipped cream and cloves, and hearty dishes like fried fish with mayonnaise potato salad.

Traditional comfort foods like stuffed cabbage and a festive “Christmas burger” are also on the menu. For dessert, passengers can enjoy makówki (poppy seed-based bread dessert) with vanilla custard or an Eszterházy torte. To complete the holiday experience, the winter drinks menu features warm options such as mulled wine and hot rum tea.

With demand high during the holiday season, early planning is essential.

Tickets for both the Vienna and Zagreb services are available online, and booking in advance ensures the best fares and guaranteed seating.

Whether heading to Vienna’s bustling markets or exploring Zagreb’s award-winning fair, these special train services offer a convenient, festive, and memorable way to celebrate the season.

Photo: courtesy of MÁV Start

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