Public Transportation
The city is served by four metro lines, a dense network of trams (including the scenic Tram 2 along the Danube), buses, and trolleybuses. The public transport provider is BKK (Budapesti Közlekedési Központ). You can buy single tickets, 24/72-hour passes, or a Budapest Card that includes unlimited travel and discounts at major attractions.
Where to Buy Tickets
Tickets can be purchased at purple ticket machines (available at most metro stations and major stops), BKK customer service points, or via the “BudapestGO” mobile app. Don’t forget to validate your paper ticket before boarding, or scan your mobile ticket where applicable.
Metro Lines
- M1 (yellow): Historic line connecting the city center to Heroes’ Square and City Park.
- M2 (red): Connects Buda and Pest, stopping at Déli and Keleti train stations.
- M3 (blue): North-South line, currently under renovation but partially operating.
- M4 (green): Fully automated line between Kelenföld and Keleti stations.
Trams and Buses
- Tram 2 – Runs along the Pest riverside, offering some of the best views of Buda.
- Tram 4 and 6 – Operate 24/7 and connect major parts of the city.
- Buses and trolleybuses cover areas not served by trams or the metro.
Night Transport
After midnight, night buses (starting with number “9”) operate across the city. There are also night trams, like Tram 6.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Use official taxi companies (e.g. Főtaxi, City Taxi) and avoid unmarked cars. Bolt is the most commonly used ride-hailing app. Uber does not operate in Hungary.
Biking and E-Scooters
Budapest has many bike lanes and a bike-sharing service called MOL Bubi. You can also rent electric scooters via apps like Tier, Lime, or Blinkee – just be cautious in busy areas.
Walking
Many central areas are pedestrian-friendly. The city is very walkable, especially in districts V, VI and VII, where many landmarks, cafés and shops are located close to each other.