How to get around in Budapest

✈️ How to Get to Budapest: A Complete Travel Guide

Planning a trip to the vibrant city of Budapest? This guide will help you navigate your way to Hungary’s capital with ease. Whether you’re flying in, arriving by train, or traveling by bus or car, we’ve got you covered with the best tips on how to get there and how to get around once you arrive.

👇 Looking for more Budapest travel tips? Scroll down for more amazing guides! 👇

✈️ How to Get to Budapest by Plane

Budapest is well-connected by air, with Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) serving as the main gateway for international and domestic flights. The airport is located about 16 km from the city center, making it easily accessible.

Flights: Many major airlines operate direct flights to Budapest from cities across Europe and beyond, including low-cost carriers such as Ryanair and Wizz Air.

📖 Read: Where to stay in Budapest?

Getting from the airport to the city center:

• 🚌 Bus 100E: A direct airport shuttle that takes you to the city center (Deák Ferenc Square) in about 35-40 minutes. The ticket costs approximately €5 and must be purchased from the ticket machines near the bus stop.

  
  

• 🚌 Bus 200E + Metro Line 3: A budget-friendly option where you take bus 200E to Kőbánya-Kispest metro station and transfer to Metro Line 3 to reach the city center. If you have a 3-day Budapest Travel Card, you don’t need to buy a separate ticket.

  
  

🚄 How to Get to Budapest by Train

If you’re traveling from another European city, taking the train to Budapest can be a comfortable and scenic option. The city has three main railway stations:

👉 Keleti Pályaudvar: The largest international railway station, with connections from Vienna, Prague, Berlin, and more.

👉 Nyugati Pályaudvar: Mainly serves domestic routes and some international trains.

👉 Déli Pályaudvar: Serves primarily domestic routes but also some international lines.

🚍 How to Get to Budapest by Bus

Traveling by bus is a cost-effective way to reach Budapest. Several international bus companies, such as FlixBus and RegioJet, operate routes to Budapest from major European cities.

📍 Main Bus Station: Most international buses arrive at Népliget Bus Station, which is well-connected to the metro system (Metro Line 3).

🚗 How to Get to Budapest by Car

Driving to Budapest can be a scenic experience, but be prepared for toll roads in Hungary. You’ll need to purchase a vignette (road toll sticker) before entering the country.

👉 Parking: Parking in the city center is limited and often expensive. It’s best to use park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts and take public transportation into the city.

🚌 How to Get Around Budapest

Public transportation:

Budapest has one of the best public transportation systems in Europe, making it easy to explore the city.

🚄 Metro: The metro system consists of four lines (M1, M2, M3, M4) that connect key areas of the city.

🚌 Buses & Trams: Trams 2, 4, and 6 are especially scenic and useful for tourists.

🚋 Trolleybuses: These electric buses serve various parts of the city.

🛳️ Public Boats: Great for sightseeing along the Danube.

💳 Where to Buy Tickets:

Tickets can be purchased at vending machines near major stops or from personnel at some metro stations. Various ticket options are available:

👉 Single Ticket: Approx. €1.10

👉 24-hour Travel Card: Approx. €6.00

👉 72-hour Travel Card: Approx. €14

👉 Budapest Card: Includes unlimited public transport and free entry to select attractions.

🚕 Taxis & Ride-Sharing

If you prefer taxis, use the Bolt app for the best rates. Yellow taxis in Budapest tend to be more expensive, so always check the fare before starting your journey.

💥 Pro Tips for Navigating Budapest:

• Validate your ticket: Always validate your ticket before using public transport to avoid fines.

• Avoid peak hours: Metro and trams can get crowded during rush hours (8-9 AM and 5-6 PM).

• Use Google Maps or BKK Futár app: These will help you navigate the city efficiently.

Enjoy your trip to Budapest and happy travels! 🚀