Dubrovnik (photo © Branex / dreamstime.com)

19th edition: From the Danube to the Adriatic (Route 51)

Travelling from Budapest to Ancona

Route introduction

This journey for Europe by Rail retraces a pilgrimage of yesteryear – but one which remains enduringly popular with residents of Budapest today. It is a mark of Hungarians’ continuing affection for the Adriatic that there are special summer-only direct trains from Budapest to Adriatic resorts. On our journey from Budapest to Split, we shall cruise the south shore of Lake Balaton and stop off in the largest city on the way: Zagreb.

MAP Double click on the map (or double tap on mobile) to zoom in. You can connect onto other routes in places shown in red (just click/tap on the red map icon marking the place to reveal other routes linked to it). Zoom out of the map again by cliking the 'minus' sign at the top left of the map.

Europe by Rail: The Definitive Guide

Whether you are making a long grand tour or just planning a couple of weekend breaks, Europe by Rail is the perfect guide. The book describes 52 key routes in detail. Together, they span mainland Europe and the British Isles. Find out more about the guidebook below.

About the book
The 19th edition of the definitive guide to exploring Europe by rail is published on 22 June 2026. With tips on ticketing, fares and accommodation, Europe by Rail has become the definitive guide to exploring Europe by train. Read here the book's word of welcome.
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The contents of Europe by Rail
Europe by Rail contains all that's necessary to plan your rail journey through Europe: 52 route descriptions, a country gazetteer, rail connections, information on Eurail and Interrail passes and more.
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Buy the book
The 19th edition of Europe by Rail: The Definitive Guide was published on 22 June 2026. This page lists some retailers who stock this new edition of the guidebook.
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