Arrivals guide
How do I get from Liszt Ferenc International Airport to the city center?
- Airport Shuttle Bus: The 100E bus line provides a direct connection between the airport and the city center (Deák Ferenc Square). The buses conveniently depart from the arrivals gates at the airport.
- Public Transportation: You can take bus 200E from the airport to Kőbánya-Kispest metro station, and then transfer to Metro Line M3, which will take you to the city center.
- Taxi: Taxis are available at the airport.
- Airport Shuttle Services: There are various shuttle services that offer door-to-door transportation to your accommodation in the city center.
- Car Rental: If you prefer to drive yourself, car rental services are available at the airport.
How can I buy tickets for public transport?
- Ticket Machines: Look for purple ticket machines at most metro stations, major bus and tram stops, and at the airport. The machines accept cash and credit/debit cards.
- Customer Service Centers: Located at major transport hubs like metro stations and the airport, these centers sell tickets and provide information.
- Mobile App: The BudapestGO app allows you to purchase and validate tickets directly from your smartphone. It's available for both iOS and Android devices.
- Onboard: Some buses and trams have ticket vending machines onboard, but it's always better to buy your ticket before boarding to avoid any inconvenience.
Do I need separate tickets for different modes of transport?
- In Budapest, you generally do not need separate tickets for different modes of public transport. A same kind of ticket is valid for buses, trams, trolleys, and the metro. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Single Tickets: These are valid for one uninterrupted trip on a single mode of transport on the metro system. If you transfer to another vehicle or mode of transport, you will need a new ticket.
- The Airport shuttle (bus E100) requires a different kind of single ticket.
- Transfer Tickets: These allow you to transfer between different lines or modes of transport within a specified time frame.
- Travel Cards and Passes: These offer unlimited travel on all public transportation within the validity period. Options include 24-hour, 72-hour, and weekly passes.
- Budapest Card: This card provides unlimited travel on public transport and includes free or discounted entry to many attractions.
How do I validate my ticket?
In Budapest, validating your public transportation ticket is essential to avoid fines. Here's how you can do it:
- Metro: Before entering the metro platform, you will find orange or red validation machines. Insert your ticket into the machine, which will stamp it with the date and time.
- Buses, Trams, and Trolleys: Onboard these vehicles, you will find similar orange or red validation machines near the doors. Insert your ticket into the machine to validate it.
- Mobile Tickets: If you are using a mobile ticket purchased through the BudapestGO app, you need to activate it before boarding. The app will guide you through the process. You usually need to scan a QR code with your phone to validate the ticket you have already purchased in the app.
For more information on public transportation in Budapest, you can visit the Budapest Public Transportation website.
Enjoy your travels in Budapest!