Public Transport in Budapest

The best way to get around Budapest depends on how many days you plan to spend exploring the city. If you have between four and five days, walking is often the best option, as you will be able to thoroughly enjoy the beauty of the Hungarian capital at your own pace.

However, if you only have two or three days, public transport is ideal for saving time while visiting the most important monuments and attractions.

How to Get Around Budapest on Foot

Is it Easy to Get Around Budapest on Foot?

Yes, Budapest is a very accessible city to explore on foot, especially in the center, where many of the main tourist attractions are close to each other. If you’re staying in the heart of the city, you’ll be able to walk to many points of interest such as the Great Synagogue, the Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and Heroes’ Square, without needing to use public transport.

The sidewalks are wide, well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly. Additionally, the city is designed to facilitate walking, with pedestrian streets and clear signage. This makes exploring on foot a comfortable and enjoyable option.

Is it Safe to Walk Around Budapest?

Overall, Budapest is a safe city to walk around, both day and night. The tourist areas are well-lit at night, and there is a constant police presence, which provides a sense of security.

Arrival in Budapest

How Do I Get to the City Center from the Airport?

If you land in Budapest, there are several public and private transport options to get to the city center. The 100E bus is one of the easiest and most convenient options for those who prefer public transportation. If you prefer comfort and greater speed, a taxi is another valid alternative.

Bus 100E

If you arrive at Ferenc Liszt International Airport and decide to use public transport, bus 100E is the easiest and most direct option to reach the city centre.

To buy your ticket, head to the purple BKK machines located near the terminal exit. You can select English or Spanish, and pay by card or cash, making the process straightforward.

The 100E bus requires a special ticket, which is not included in standard transport passes. However, since October 1st 2025, holders of a valid Budapest travel pass (digital or paper, excluding the 15-day pass), Pest County Pass or Hungary Pass can travel on this bus using a new “add-on airport shuttlebus single ticket”, which costs 1,000 HUF — the equivalent of two regular single tickets. This ticket must be validated when boarding, and you must show your valid pass.

For all other passengers, the full-price ticket costs 2,200 HUF (approximately 5.5 EUR) and must be purchased separately. A conductor will likely check your ticket before boarding.

The bus makes three main stops in the city centre: Kálvin tér, Astoria, and Deák Ferenc tér, all conveniently located near major accommodations and metro lines.

Depending on traffic, the ride from the airport to the centre takes between 25 and 40 minutes.

Can You Pay by Card for the Bus 100E at Budapest Airport?

Yes, the BKK machines at the airport accept credit and debit cards, as well as cash, making it convenient if you don’t have Hungarian forints upon arrival.

Does Bus 100E Run All Night?

No, bus 100E does not operate all night. The service runs between 4:00 AM and 11:30 PM, covering most of the day. If you arrive outside of these hours, alternative options such as taxis are available.

Taxi

If you prefer a more comfortable and direct option, you can take a taxi from the airport. The journey from Ferenc Liszt International Airport to the city center takes about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Unlike the bus, a taxi takes you directly to your destination without intermediate stops.

To avoid scams, ensure you take an official taxi with a logo and a yellow license plate. Always request the driver to start the meter to avoid unexpected charges. The cost from the airport to the city center is around 11,000 HUF (approximately 30 EUR), depending on traffic and destination.

Getting around Budapest

With the arrival of cold weather, public transport in Budapest becomes an essential ally for getting around the city. The transport network in the Hungarian capital is efficient, economical, and easy to use, making it the ideal choice to move quickly around all corners of the city.

Budapest’s public transport network includes four metro lines, buses, trolleybuses, trams, and even a public boat service.

What Are the Ticket Options?

When it comes to getting around the city, you have several ticket and pass options to choose from, depending on how frequently you plan to use public transport. Prices increased as of June 1, 2025, but tickets purchased before this date are still valid for one year.

If you only plan to use it occasionally, you can buy a single ticket for 500 HUF, which can be purchased from vending machines or tobacconists.

Remember to always validate your ticket before boarding any public transport unless you have a multi-day pass.

Pack of 10 Tickets

If you plan to use public transport frequently during your visit, you can opt for a 10-ticket pack for 4,500 HUF (approximately €11). This pack is useful if you plan to make multiple trips throughout the day.

Transport passes

For travelers who plan to use public transport extensively, there are several unlimited transport pass options. You can choose between 24-hour, 72-hour, or one-week passes, with prices starting from 2,750 HUF (approximately €7) for a 24-hour pass. These passes are valid across all public transport lines, including metro, trams, buses, trolleybuses, and boats.

Budapest Card

If you want to combine public transport with discounts and free entries to some of the city’s main attractions, the Budapest Card is a great option. It offers unlimited access to public transport as well as free or discounted entry to various museums, such as the Budapest History Museum, and tourist sites. Available options include:

• 24 hours: 16,990 HUF (≈ 42 EUR)
• 48 hours: 21,990 HUF (≈ 54 EUR)
• 72 hours: 27,990 (≈ 69 EUR)
• 96 hours: 34,990 (≈ 87 EUR)
• 120 hours: 38,990 (≈ 97 EUR)

If you plan to visit several of Budapest’s tourist attractions, it can be a great option to save on your tickets.

You can find more information on the BKK official website.

Metro

The Budapest metro has four lines (Lines 1 to 4) that allow you to move quickly and efficiently around the city. Before boarding the metro, make sure to validate your ticket at the orange machines located at the entrance of the stations. If you have a pass, simply show it when you enter the metro.

For more information on how to get around by metro, check out our article dedicated to the Budapest metro.

Tram

The tram is a popular choice in Budapest, especially because it allows you to enjoy the views as you get around. Running every 5 to 10 minutes, trams are a great way to get around the city, as they are not only fast, but also offer a panoramic view of the main tourist spots.

One of the most recommended trams is Tram 2, which runs along the east bank of the Danube, passing by the Parliament, Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge. It’s ideal if you want to see the city’s main attractions quickly.

Lines 4 and 6, which connect various areas of downtown Pest and Buda, are also useful. Additionally, lines 19 and 18 are very convenient for reaching the Gellért Spa and Buda Castle.

Bus

Buses in Budapest have an extensive network with more than 200 lines, operating from early morning until late at night, including several night routes.

An economical and easy option to get from Ferenc Liszt International Airport to the city center is Bus 200E, which connects directly to the Kőbánya-Kispest metro station on Line 3. During the night, there are several night bus routes available.

Some of the most useful bus lines for tourists include:

• Line 7: Crosses the center of Pest and heads south to Buda.
• Line 15: Covers a large part of the city center.
• Lines 16 and 16A: Perfect for getting to the Fisherman’s Bastion.
• Line 105: Travels from Deák Ferenc tér to the center of Buda.

Trolley bus

The trolleybus is an alternative to traditional buses. Just like the metro, bus, and tram, you must validate your ticket at the machines inside the vehicle before starting your journey.

Boat

Map of Boat Lines in Budapest

The public transport system in Budapest also includes several boat lines, offering a unique and budget-friendly way to experience the Danube River. This can be a cheaper alternative to the more expensive private river cruises organized on the Danube.

During weekdays, you can use the boat service with a regular public transport pass or ticket. However, on weekends, a special ticket is required: 750 HUF for adults and 550 HUF for children. As you can see, it’s a very affordable option!

For more detailed information about the boat service, check out the official website.

More Tips for Using Public Transport in Budapest

Before using any of the public transport options in Budapest, here are a few key points to keep in mind:

Unified Tickets
The same ticket can be used for the metro, tram, bus, trolleybus, and boat, making it easier to switch between different modes of transport without needing separate tickets.

No Free Rides!
Make sure you always have a valid ticket, especially on the metro. Ticket inspectors are present at most stations throughout the day and regularly check tickets. If you are caught without a validated ticket, you will be fined 12,000 HUF on the spot.

Buy Tickets in Advance
Tickets can be purchased from vending machines at metro stations, tobacconists, newsstands, or directly from bus and tram drivers. Buying tickets in advance will save you time and help you avoid any inconvenience.

Driver Identification
Always ensure that drivers or ticket sellers have proper identification, such as a wristband and a photo ID, to avoid dealing with scammers posing as transport staff.

Travel Cards
If you purchase a multi-day travel card, make sure to date it correctly. It is your responsibility to write the start date on the card if it’s not already printed. Using an undated card can lead to fines.

Is Public Transport Safe in Budapest?

Yes, Budapest’s public transport system is generally safe and well-managed. To improve security even further, the city has introduced a 24/7 Passenger Security Service that you can contact via the BudapestGO app. If you witness someone smoking, harassing others, littering, or vandalizing, you can report it directly through the app chat or by calling 1443. For emergencies, always call 112.

Staff from BKK, BKV, and city authorities monitor the network day and night. They also assist vulnerable individuals, often in cooperation with social services. Whether you travel by metro, tram, or bus, you’ll find inspectors, drivers, and security personnel working together to ensure a safe and comfortable ride for everyone.

Taxi

While Budapest’s public transport system is highly efficient, taxis can be a convenient option for those seeking comfort and speed, especially if you want to reach your destination directly without worrying about stops or connections.

How Much Does a Taxi Cost in Budapest?

Taxi fares in Budapest are relatively affordable compared to other European capitals. However, the final cost depends on several factors, such as the base fare, distance traveled, and waiting time (for example, if you get stuck in traffic).

• Base fare: 450 HUF (approximately 1.30 EUR)
• Per kilometer fee: Around 280 HUF per kilometer
• Waiting fee: 70 HUF per minute (applies when the taxi stops in traffic or travels slower than 15 km/h)

Do Taxis in Budapest Accept Card Payments?

Yes, most taxis in Budapest accept credit or debit cards. However, it is always a good idea to confirm with the driver before starting your trip, especially if you are using a foreign currency. It’s also advisable to carry some cash in Hungarian forints, as some drivers may prefer cash payments.

Is Uber Available in Budapest?

Yes, Uber is available in Budapest. However, Bolt is the most popular ride-hailing service in the city. Bolt works similarly to Uber: you can request a ride through the app and pay directly from your linked account.

Bolt is a popular choice for those who prefer knowing the exact trip cost in advance. It generally offers more transparent and consistent pricing compared to traditional taxis.

Key Tips for Using Taxis in Budapest

Use Official Taxis
Look for taxis with a yellow license plate and the official logo. Avoid unmarked cars, as they may charge higher fares or be unsafe.

Always Use the Meter
Make sure the driver starts the meter at the beginning of your trip to avoid surprises when paying. If the driver refuses to use the meter, it’s best to find another taxi.

Check the Estimated Fare
Whether you use Bolt or a traditional taxi, always check the estimated fare before confirming your ride to avoid overcharges.

MOL Bubi – Public Bike Rental in Budapest

MOL Bubi is Budapest’s bike-sharing system, offering an eco-friendly, fast, and affordable way to explore the city. Recognizable by their bright green color, these bikes are a great option for tourists and locals who want a practical and flexible mode of transport.

How Does MOL Bubi Work?

MOL Bubi bikes can be rented from any station within the network, which includes more than 100 stations across Budapest. The rental process is entirely digital and very simple:

1. Download the MOL Bubi app.
2. Register and add your payment details.
3. Scan the QR code on the bike to unlock it.

Once you complete these steps, you’re ready to ride!

Pricing and Usage Fees

The first 30 minutes of each trip are free, making MOL Bubi an economical choice for short journeys. If you exceed the free period, an additional fee of 40 HUF per minute will apply. This allows you to enjoy the flexibility of using a bike for as long as you need, but it’s important to keep track of time to avoid extra charges.

How Many Bikes Can You Rent at Once?

With a MOL Bubi pass, you can rent up to two bikes at the same time, which is perfect for couples, friends, or family members exploring the city together. Remember that each bike requires its own registration, and fees will apply for both bikes.

Where Can You Find MOL Bubi Stations?

MOL Bubi stations are strategically located near Budapest’s main sights and key points of interest. From the Danube River bank to more remote areas, you can easily find a station close to the main tourist attractions.

To help you locate the nearest station, the MOL Bubi app offers an interactive map.

Some More Tips for Getting Around the City

Although Google Maps works perfectly in Budapest, the city’s public transport company, BKK, has its own mobile app called BudapestGO, which is highly recommended. The app provides real-time information on public transport schedules and station availability. You can also use their Trip Planner through your mobile or computer browser.

Given the difficulty of the Hungarian language and the similarity of street names, squares, and avenues, it’s important to pay attention to the postcode or district number when entering an address. Typically, the penultimate digit of the postcode indicates the district. For example, 1051 indicates District V.

If you have any questions during your trip, don’t hesitate to ask other transport users. Many people in Budapest speak English, but unfortunately, public transport staff may not always be fluent. Asking locals can be a great way to get recommendations and insider tips.

And, of course, our guides will be happy to answer your questions.

Pick one of our free tours and meet us in person!