On 11-29-2015 14:38, Happy.Hobo wrote:
On 11-29-2015 13:25, tim..... wrote:
The simplest option is two overnight through trains, Milano - Wien one
night and Wien - Bucuresti a following night. Both are available using
"global pricing" (which means a single fare including on board
accommodation), though I suspect that won't meet the OP's request for
the cheapest solution

Sorry I wasn't clear. Indeed, I don't want to spend a LOT but there are
other factors than price. Even the bus is not out of the question, nor
the flight. But the train, with a tourist stop along the way is an
experience that appeals to me. Night train would save money, but
eyeballing the country along the way is worth the cost of a night's
lodging (under €25 is pretty easy to find).

Tentatively, Barcelona to Milan, Milan to Budapest, Budapest to Sibiu or
Bucharest.

Where do I look?

Renfe.es doesn't recognize Milan.

bahn.de doesn't have prices or make sales

eurail won't sell trips, only passes for €510

raileurope.com suggests US$ 125 BCN-MIL, US$118 BUD-BUH, can't find a
Milan to Budapest route

RyanAir will charge me up the nose for a few kilos overweight, and a
hundred euro if their online form is unable to accept the name on my
passport.

etc.

(62 years old, if that makes any difference)