Explore stunning Central European capitals this Christmas with the Hungarian Orient Express – PHOTOS
Looking for an extraordinary train journey to Central European capitals, either as a solo traveller or with your loved ones? Look no further! The first and, to date, only fully privately owned Hungarian railway company offers enchanting trips aboard the Hungarian Orient Express to Vienna, Zagreb, South Bohemia, and the Semmering region.
Exclusive journeys from Budapest
From 12 October until 30 December, you can embark on some remarkable journeys through Hungary on the Hungarian Orient Express, discovering the splendid cities of Vienna or Zagreb, as well as the picturesque Semmering and South Bohemia. Continental Railway Solution Ltd. (CRS) is launching the Continental Classic Express trains from Budapest, featuring carriages previously used by the Austrian Prime Minister.
Founded in 2014, CRS is Hungary’s first and only fully privately owned railway company with a passenger transport licence. The travel experience on their trains is an entirely different realm compared to the service offered by Hungarian State Railways (MÁV). The MÁV has faced numerous challenges, including outdated locomotives and dilapidated railway lines. Development has stalled due to financial constraints faced by the Hungarian government, leading to the suspension of relevant projects two years ago. Consequently, many Hungarian trains suffer breakdowns, delays, and frequent cancellations.
Affordable luxury: tickets from EUR 63
Passengers aboard the Hungarian Orient Express can expect a hassle-free experience, distinct from the troubles of MÁV. The train features four classes of coaches, accommodating approximately 300 passengers, ensuring that everyone can savour the magic of the season in style. Currently, the cheapest ticket is priced at HUF 24,900 (EUR 63), granting access to the tourist carriages.
One unique highlight of the Hungarian Orient Express is the Salon z carriage, which was previously reserved for the Austrian Prime Minister on exclusive journeys. Guests seated in this carriage can order from a special menu, be attended to by private staff, and enjoy exclusive beverages. This luxurious option can be booked by groups of eight.
If you’re a “regular passenger,” there’s no need to feel disappointed. A dining and lounge bar carriage also awaits you on the train, catering to all your needs, Lelépő wrote.
Unforgettable journey to Zagreb with the Hungarian Orient Express
Should you choose to travel to the Croatian capital, you can opt for the train on 12 October or visit the Christmas fair on 7 December (both Saturdays). According to Continental Railway Solutions Ltd., Zagreb has been voted Europe’s most beautiful Christmas fair three times. Trains depart from Budapest-Keleti Railway Station at 6:00 a.m., make a brief stop at Kelenföld Railway Station at 6:10 a.m., and arrive at Zagreb Main Station at 11:00 a.m. Return trips from Zagreb are scheduled for 5:30 p.m.
Ticket prices are as follows: HUF 24,990 (EUR 63) for the tourist class, HUF 38,900 (EUR 98) for Pullman, and HUF 79,990 (EUR 200) for Pullman First class. For more details, you can find a brief English description of the three options HERE.
Explore Vienna, Semmering, and South Bohemia
This year, the Hungarian Orient Express will run two Christmas fair trips to Vienna on 14 and 21 December (both Saturdays). Ticket prices are comparable to those for a one-day journey to the Croatian capital. The train will also make stops in Győr, Tatabánya, Wien Hauptbahnhof, and Wien Westbahnhof. You can read more about this HERE.
While on 17 October, you can embark on a four-day adventure to discover the treasures of South Bohemia. Choose from two classes: expedition and Pullman First. Check out the prices HERE.
To wrap up the year with excitement, there will be a one-day trip to the Semmering in Austria on 30 December. This memorable excursion will feature multiple stops and the same class options as those for Vienna and Zagreb. For further details, visit THIS website.
As mentioned earlier, the first journey was a one-day wine tour to the picturesque Wine Region of Tokaj.
Read also:
- MÁV-START tests used French Alstom electric locomotives to modernise Hungarian railways – read more HERE
- Ambitious: Hungarian railway company MÁV embarks on a massive EUR 2 billion railway development