Local Transport
Public Transport in Budapest
Budapest's public transport network is excellent, affordable, and comprehensive: 4 metro lines, tram, bus, trolleybus, and ferries. Operator: BKK (Budapesti Közlekedési Központ).
- Single ride: 450 HUF (approx. 1.15€)
- 24-hour ticket: 2,500 HUF (approx. 6.50€)
- 72-hour ticket: 5,500 HUF (approx. 14€)
- 7-day ticket: 6,300 HUF (approx. 16€)
Buy tickets in the BudapestGO app — cashless and easy. Important: Validate tickets before the journey! Fare evasion is strictly controlled — fine: 16,000 HUF (40€) on the spot, 32,000 HUF (80€) for later payment.
The Tram 2 along the Danube riverbank is the most beautiful "sightseeing tour" for the price of a single ticket — Parliament, Chain Bridge, Great Market Hall, all from the window.
Train (MÁV-START)
The Hungarian railway (MÁV) connects Budapest with all major cities. The three main Budapest train stations: Keleti (East — international trains), Nyugati (West — towards Balaton, Eger) and Déli (South — towards Balaton, Pécs).
| Route | Duration | Price (from) |
|---|---|---|
| Budapest → Balaton (Siófok) | 1h 30min | 2,700 HUF (7€) |
| Budapest → Eger | 2h | 2,900 HUF (7.50€) |
| Budapest → Pécs | 3h | 4,200 HUF (11€) |
| Budapest → Debrecen | 2h 30min | 3,900 HUF (10€) |
| Budapest → Sopron | 2h 45min | 4,500 HUF (12€) |
Buy tickets online at mavcsoport.hu or jegy.mav.hu. InterCity trains (IC) are faster and more comfortable but require a surcharge/reservation. Regional trains (személyvonat) are slower but affordable.
Rental Car
For trips to Balaton, Tokaj, or the Puszta, a rental car is ideal. Prices: from 8,000–15,000 HUF (20–40€) per day for a small car. Providers: Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, and local providers (cheaper but often without comprehensive insurance). Roads in Hungary are generally good — motorways modern, country roads solid. Note: On country roads, horse-drawn carts, tractors, and stray dogs may appear.
