Bus 100E is a direct, but expensive way of travelling to the city centre. A more budget-friendly option is bus 200E combined with Metro Line 3 or with train.
Taxi is a tad more comfortable option, but more expensive. Plus, many drivers are trying to rip off tourists.
Budapest Airport can also take you to your accommodation by miniBUD, if you don’t mind paying more and sharing your journey with some fellow passengers. And if you want to enjoy peace, then choose a private transfer. Albeit it’s the most expensive option.
The Liszt Ferenc Budapest International Airport is 16 km from the city centre. It takes 30-40 minutes to get to the city centre from Budapest Airport, depending on your means of travel and the exact destination. The cost of travel is between 1800-9000 HUF (4.5-23 EUR).
The arrival marks the beginning of both your study in Budapest and a truly unforgettable journey.
By public transport: 100E, 200E, train
You have three main options: the direct 100E bus, the 200E bus combined with metro line 3, and the 200E bus paired with a train connection.
Bus 100E
The bus 100E serves as a direct link between Budapest Airport and the city centre. Departing from the airport, it operates every 30 minutes.
- Departure: It departs directly from the airport terminals, in front of the gates.
- Operating Hours: Operates regularly throughout the day from 12 am to 11:50 pm.
- Key Stops: Kálvin tér, Astoria, Deák Ferenc tér.
- Journey Time: Approximately 30 minutes to the city centre.
- Ticket Type and Cost: A special airport shuttle ticket is required, costing 2200 HUF (5.5 EUR).
- Ticket Purchase: Available at airport ticket machines, customer service centres, and online. We recommend the dedicated airport ticket machines right in front of the gates.
Pros: fast, direct, efficient, gets you to the centre.
Cons: more expensive than other public transport options, tend to be full with fellow passengers.
Bus 200E + Metro line 3
Combining bus 200E with metro line 3 is a cost-effective public transport option to the city centre. Bus 200E also departs directly from the airport terminals, but has a different route. Its final stop is at Kőbánya-Kispest, where you have to change to Metro Line 3. By Metro Line 3 you can get to practically everywhere in Budapest.
It can be a bit challenging for foreigners to find a way to the entrance of Metro Line 3 at Kőbánya-Kispest, though.
The Bus operates from early morning (from around 4-5 am) to late evening.
- Departure: It departs directly from the airport terminals, in front of the gates.
- Operating hours: Regular service, matching the local public transport timetable.
- Journey time: It takes approximately 50-60 minutes to get into the city centre.
- Important Stops: Transfer at Kőbánya-Kispest for Metro Line 3.
- Ticket Type and Cost: Buy either a pass or regular Budapest public transportation tickets. A student pass costs 3500 HUF / 8.8 EUR, and a single ticket costs 350 HUF / 0.9 EUR.
- Purchase Locations: Available at airport ticket vending machines and service centres. You can also buy tickets at Kőbánya-Kispest Metro Station
Pros: Cheap, fewer passengers, better access to various city parts.
Cons: Requires transfer to Metro Line 3, the entrance at Kőbánya-Kispest can be challenging to locate for foreigners, and the area around Kőbánya-Kispest is perceived as less safe.
Bus 200E + Train
Alternatively, you can change to train at Ferihegy vasútállomás train station/bus station. The train travels directly to Nyugati Railway Station. The best thing is that you can use every train with a standard public transportation ticket and pass within Budapest.
You can find ticket vending machines at Ferihegy vasútállomás station.
- Where to change to Train: At Ferihegy railway station/bus station.
- Frequency: Trains run regularly every 5-15 minutes during operating hours.
- Timeframe: Services run from early morning till late evening.
- Important Stops: Direct routes into the city centre.
- Travel Time: Roughly 50 minutes to the city centre.
- Ticket Type and Cost: Normal public transportation passes/tickets are valid.
- Purchase Location: Tickets can be bought at airport facilities and Ferihegy vasútállomás station.
Pros: Quick, direct, efficient.
Cons: Trains run less frequently than buses; this public transport route is only useful if your destination is close to Nyugati Railway Station.
By taxi
The trusted taxi operators in Budapest include Bolt, Főtaxi, 6×6 Taxi, Taxi4, City Taxi, and Uber. Taxi travel from the airport is fast and direct, about 35 minutes to the city centre, with costs varying based on your specific destination.
You can pay by card, in cash, or in the app (if applicable). Additional luggage fees are not common, but being aware of potential scams is crucial.
Taxis are readily available at the airport, but watch out for the freelance (unbranded) taxi scams! Always choose a trusted provider from the list above.
By the official miniBUD Airport Shuttle Bus
The miniBUD Airport Shuttle Bus is an official service that provides direct transfers to the city centre.
- Benefits: It combines the convenience of direct travel with the efficiency of scheduled services.
- Cost: Varies, with an average price providing value for money considering its direct route. Depending on your route & destination it can amount to 3000-9000 HUF (8-23 EUR).
- Travel Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes to the city centre.
- Capacity: Transports multiple passengers, max. 10 persons.
Pros: Fast, free wifi on board, direct service.
Cons: More expensive than public transport, potential waits until has enough passengers, multiple stops, taxi may be cheaper.
By private transfer
Private transfers offer a seamless travel experience from Budapest Airport to the city centre. This pre-booked service means a hassle-free journey to your accommodation. It provides a personal and efficient travel option, with advance payment removing the need for on-the-spot transactions.
Pros: Fast, the most comfortable option, completely private, cost-effective for really small groups.
Cons: The most expensive option for individuals.
