Budapest Getting Around

Getting around Budapest

Budapest public transport is safe, cheap, efficient and fast. Most transport runs from 04.30 until about 23.00, and night buses and trams serve tourist areas. All tickets must be bought before travel and validated, with one ticket needed for each trip. If you change mode of travel you must validate another ticket, and checks are frequent. Travel passes or books of tickets are more convenient and probably cheaper, and you can buy tickets from machines at metro stations and tram-stops or kiosks and newsagents. The 3-day Budapest Card combines transport and entry to attractions and museums.

Getting from the airport

Budapest airport is 10 miles from the city, and an airport bus departs every 30 minutes. An Airport minibus service takes passengers to any address.

Walking

While most visitors will use a combination of metro, trams and trolley buses, Budapest is easy to get around on foot, as most of the major sights are close to each other. Walking is by far the best way to appreciate the city’s most historic neighbourhoods and discover the true character of the city.

Metro

Budapest metro is clean, safe and fast. Three metro lines reach most of the popular tourist destinations, and trains are very frequent. Validate tickets before going down to the platform.

Trams

Budapest trams are a much-loved part of life in the city. Trams travel at an agreeably slow pace and offer good views, and there are 2 night tram services. Budapest trams are excellent for the Great Boulevard and travelling along the River Danube (no. 19 on Buda and no. 2 on Pest).

Buses & trolley buses

Buses are of less use to tourists, but serve areas without the metro. Buses are frequent and you must validate tickets as you enter. Night buses run to the most important tourist areas. Environmentally-friendly trolley buses are slow but fun and offer good views.

Funicular

A funicular climbs to the Castle District from Clark Ádám tér, a cog railway runs from Városmajor útca to Széchenyi Hill, and a chair-lift climbs from Zugliget district to János Hill, the highest point in Budapest.

Taxis

Taxis have a yellow number plate, display fares, have meters and do not enjoy the best of reputations, often being slower than public transport. Do not use unmarked vehicles, and if taking a taxi, make sure the meter is on or agree a fare before setting off. Phoning for a taxi is cheaper and more reliable.

City Tours

Several companies offer Budapest bus tours and Budapest walking tours.

Ferry

Ferries run along the Danube in the summer.