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Budapest public transport, how to travel in the city.

Use public transport services to travel in Budapest, especially if you stay in one of the outer districts.

Although attractions in the central districts (V., VI., parts of I., II., VII. and VIII.) are easy to explore on foot you might want to rest your legs after a while and hop on a metro/tram/bus.

Table of Contents – Budapest Public Transport

Best public transport lines for tourists.

You will easily get to any sight and attraction by travelling on one of the four metro lines or the major tram lines (No. 4, 6 and 2).

TIP: In case it’s cold or a summer shower catches you, take one of the four metro lines (M1 , M2, M3 and M4), or any of the major tram lines (tram 2, 2B, , 4, 6, 47, 49 or 19)

• Trams No. 2 and 2B run along the Pest Danube emabankment (between Jászai Mari tér – Közvágóhíd stops), covering the pircturesque promenade called Duna Corso and stopping in front of the Parliament in Kossuth Square.
• Trams 47 and 49 are also useful especially if you want to get from Pest to Buda or vica versa.
• Tram 19 is great for sightseeing in Buda , it connects Kelenföld Train Station with Óbuda (the Northern part of Buda). Similarly to Tram 2 and 2B in Pest it travels along the Danube between Liberty Bridge and Margaret Bridge offering a scenic view of the river and some famous attractions in Pest, in the .

See more on travelling buy tram in Budapest!

These transport services will take you to most of the places of interest.

The bus and trolley bus service are quite extensive too.

There’s also a scheduled boat service on the Danube from spring till autumn.

Below you find information on Budapest public transport: types of tickets and passes, buying, and validating them.

Popular Activities

Tickets, travel cards, prices and fines.

Budapest has a fairly extensive and efficient public transport system. It is also cheaper than in most Western European cities.

A wide variety of trams, buses, trolleys and metro trains run in the city.

Night service is quite reliable, too.

Be prepared for typical rush hours : vehicles are crowded and traffic can be rather slow. This would be expected in any large city.

Children’s Fares, Student Passes, Family Discounts

Children living in Hungary up to the age of 14 travel free of charge. A valid Hungarian identity card is required for them to verify age if a controller asks for tickets and passes.

Pupils, university students can buy discount monthly/yearly passes with a valid student ID card.

No student discount on single tickets though.

TIP: For families visiting Budapest with kids we recoomend getting the 24-hour group travel card. 5 people can travel with it for p to 24 hours and it cots 5 000 HUF.

Free Travel on Public Transport with Budapest Card

TIP: If you don’t want to bother with buying and validating tickets, purchase a Budapest City Card .

Besides unlimited free travel on public transport, the card offers a range of discounts on tours/services, free entry to the permanent exhibitions of many museums, entry to the Lukács Bath etc.

Buy Budapest Card: Public Transport, 30+ Top Attractions & Tours

• 24-Hour Card: 29 EUR
• 48-Hour Card: 43 EUR
• 72-Hour Card: 56 EUR
• 72-Hour Plus Card: 87 EUR
• 96-Hour Card: 69 EUR
• 120-Hour Card: 82 EUR

Read more about the Budapest Card and whether it’s worth getting it!

Public Transport Tickets and Passes

(Prices Updated For 2024)

Note: The price of a single ticket and discounted pack of 10 tickets has gone up as of September 01, 2023: A single ticket costs 450 HUF , pack of 10 single tickets costs 4 000 HUF. Price of travel cards, monthly passes hasn’t changed. Both are available online through the BudapestGO App .

TIP: If you visit the Hungarian capital for 2-3 days and you stay in a city center hotel , we recommend that you use:

• Single tickets or the
• Discounted block of 10 tickets to make travelling on public transport lines hassle-free.
• Time-based tickets (30-minute and 90-minute) work well too with unlimted transfers within the timeframe.

Free Travel For Seniors 65 + – EU Citizens Only

TIP: Citizens of the European Union countries and Switzerland aged 65 and up can use all public transport lines for free in Budapest.

They have to show a valid ID to verify age and nationality if asked by a ticket inspector).

The current tickets and passes are of pale purple colour.

Tickets, Transfer Tickets

• Single ticket (vonaljegy or just jegy) 450 HUF, (600 HUF if purchased from the driver on board the vehicle): valid on all public transport vehicles for one uninterrupted trip. If you
• Block of 10 single tickets (tíz darabos gyűjtőjegy: 4 000 HUF). Costs less than 10 single tickets purchased individually.

Time-Based Tickets: Save Money

Use time-based tickets if you need to transfer between metro lines and also other lines (trams, buses, trolley).

You save money with it since you don’t need to use a 450-HUF single ticket every time you need to change public transport lines.

Moreover, you can finish your trip beyond the 30th or 90th minute until you reach your destination within Budapest.

Please remember to validate your time-based ticket before the start of your travel and each time you switch to another travel line.

You can use time-based tickets for an unlimited number of transfers and trip interruptions, by validating it each time you board making sure that your last transfer falls within the 30-minute or 90-minute time limit.

There Are Two Time-Based Tickets:

• 30-minute ticket: 530 HUF
• 90-minute ticket: 750 HUF

Important! Please scan the code each time when you board a vehicle to validate your ticket. When transferring between metrolines, you are not required to revalidate your ticket.

Note: If you carry a bike with you (permitted only on a few vehicle types) you have to validate a single ticket for it.

Travel Cards

24-hour travel card.

• Price: : 2 500 HUF – Please note that is not the same as the 24-hour Budapest Card
• Valid on all public transport vehicles except for the boat service on the Danube.
• For an unlimited number of trips from 0:00 to 24:00 of the day indicated on the ticket (you decide on the starting time).

24-Hour Group Travel Card, For Max. 5 Persons

• Price: 5 000 HUF – Recommended also for families
• Valid on all public transport vehicles – except for the boat service.

72-Hour Travel Card

• Price: 5 500 HUF) – not the same as the 72-hour Budapest Card
• Valid on all public transport vehicles – except for the boat service- for an unlimited number of trips for 72 hours starting from the time and date you purchased it.

Public Boat Service Tickets

Unfortunatley Public Boat services ceased to run as of 2023 due to high maintenance expenses.

Where To Buy Tickets And Passes?

You have two options, choose the one that you’re more comfortable with:

BudapestGO App or Paper Tickets/Tarvel Cards

• Go the traditional way and buy and use paper tickets and travel cards (24-hour or 72-hour, or if you are comfortable with using apps
• Download the BudapestGO public transport application to buy single tickets, time based tickets (for 30-minute or 90-minute duration) and 24/72-hour travel cards. The app is also a great help in planning your route providing real-time travel information as well as route and service recommendations including the BuBi public bike rental points.

You can buy paper tickets and travel cards from the ticket vending machines with bankcard (or cash) . You The purple colored ticket automats are placed at main public transport stations (metro entrance), as well as at the airport.

The airport also has BKK Customer Sales Points where you can get your ticket/travel card from a real person.

If you don’t have or don’t want to use the BudapestGO App you have to buy your tickets/pass in advance.

You can get them from ticket vending machines (TVM) or at many newspaper kiosks.

Around 300 new ticket vending machines have been placed throughout the city where you can get tickets and passes 24/7 by paying with cash or bank card.

I often use them and found them are quite reliable .

Most ticket offices have closed down though. You will find Ticket Offices (Jegypénztár) in some metro stations near the entrance:

• Corvin negyed M3/blue line,
• Népliget M3/blue line,
• Nyugati tér M3/blue line,
• Blaha Lujza tér M2/red line,
• Széll Kálmán tér M2/red line.

Most cashiers speak only Hungarian so it’s best to go to the cashier with a piece of paper on which you’ve written down in Hungarian what type of ticket you want to buy.

TIP: Here is a map of the Public Transport Company showing all the operating ticket sellers .

How To Use The Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs)?

Using the machines is pretty straightforward, just read the instructions displayed on the monitor.

First choose language by touching the appropriate flag symbol on the bottom of the screen on the right hand side of the TVM.

A list of the most popular ticket types and passes will appear

• Single ticket-350 HUF,
• Block of 10 tickets – 3000 HUF,
• 24-hour travel card,
• 24-hour group travel card,
• Various monthly passes.

I only give you the steps on buying tickets/travel card because these are the ones most suited to tourists visiting Budapest for a couple of days.

Buying Ticket/Travel Card From The TVM:

• Select the ticket/travel card you want to buy.
• Decide whether you want the machine to print an invoice , if not then press payment without VAT invoice.
• Choose payment method: you can pay by cash, bank card (PayPass/contactless cards). I prefer using bank card, and recommend this payment method for tourists as well.

Paying By Bank Card/Contactless Card – Recommended For Tourists

The simplest and fastest way is to pay with a bankcard/contactless card .

Just follow the steps shown on the card terminal screen. After payment collect the purchased ticket or travel card.

Paying By Cash:

The machine accepts all current Hungarian coins from 5 HUF to 200 HUF.

You can use banknotes too: 500 HUF, 1 000 HUF, 2 000 HUF, 5 000 HUF, 10 000 HUF, 20 000 HUF. Based on the total value of the purchase the TVM defines the banknotes to be accepted.

If the purchase is of a small amount (e.g. a 350 HUF single ticket) 2000 HUF or smaller notes are accepted. In case of a bigger purchase larger notes can also be used.

The machine accepts 35 coins and 15 banknotes per transaction. It gives back changes in coins and notes.

Make sure you don’t leave your bank card or other belongings at the machine.

You can also view an instructional video on how to buy monthly passes and use the vending machines on the transport company’s (BKK) website.

How To Validate Tickets?

You must validate your ticket at the start of your journey.

Metro Stations

In case of metro tickets you have to put the ticket in the ticket validation machine (orange coloured box on a metal pole) that’ll stamp a time and date on the ticket.

A short musical tone and the tiny green light confirm that the ticket has been validated.

Once you validated the metro ticket you head for the escalator that’ll take you to the metro platform where you wait for the metro car.

At the top of the escalator ticket inspectors will most likely stop you to check whether you’ve validated your ticket.

Other Vehicles

On other vehicles (trams, buses, trolley) there’ s

• Either the orange or yellow box similar to the ones in metro stations, or
• A smaller red box in which you insert the ticket then pull the black part on the top towards you to punch the ticket (a pattern of holes appear on the validated ticket).

Note: The slot on some ticket validation machines is clogged with chewing gum or paper (deliberately done by prank makers) so you won’t be able to insert the ticket. Try another machine on the vehicle to validate your ticket.[

Inspectors check passengers’ tickets throughout the day.

An inspector usually wears dark blue uniform and a blue with a red armband. Nowadays, however they are in plain clothes (but still must put on the armband when checking tickets) in order to disguise themselves.

To avoid problems , buy the type of ticket or pass that are most suitable for your visit and your budget, and remember to validate it. Keep your ticket until the end of your journey.

Fines are high (if caught travelling without a valid ticket or pass you’ll be fined to pay 16.000 HUF, 8.000 HUF if you pay it on the spot or within 2 days of being fined)

It’s not worth ruining your stay with constant watching out for the inspectors. If you forgot to buy a ticket or validate it, and you’re fined the ticket inspector must give you a receipt about the payment.

Fines For Travelling Without A Valid Ticket/Pass

If you’re caught without a valid ticket by a ticket inspector , you are to pay a fine which is currently 12 000 HUF paid on the spot or in BKK’s Surcharge Office within 2 work days from the date of the fining.

Note: The inspector must give you a receipt of the payment when you pay on the spot.

If you don’ pay the fine on the spot or within 2 work days, but settle the amount within 30 days the penalty fare is 25 000 HUF .

If you don’t pay the fine on the spot, the ticket inspector initiates a fining procedure (ensuring the opportunity of deferred payment).

In this case he/she is entitled to ask the required personal data (name, mother’s name, date and place of birth) and also the address of the passenger. On the basis of these data, the ticket inspector fills in a so-called “Surcharging procedure report”.

If the passenger refuses to give his/her personal data, the ticket inspector can ask for police assistance on the spot.

The ticket inspector gives a cheque about the amount of the fine and a leaflet about the opportunities of payment.

The passenger shall sign that he/she accepts the surcharging and confirms that he/she has given the required personal data. The denial of signature doesn’t acquit the passenger of the consequences of the fining.

You’ll find the most up-to-date information about tickets, prices and penalty fines on the Public Transport Company’s website (BKK).

How to Use BKK Travel Cards and Passes in Budapest

Whether you’re a local, an expat, or a tourist, understanding Budapest’s public transport system is key to exploring all that Budapest has to offer. The Budapest Language Exchange (BPLX) team is here to guide you through the ins and outs of using BKK’s travel cards and passes, ensuring that your journey through the city is smooth and hassle-free.

Long Term Options

For those who plan to soak in the beauty and culture of Budapest for more than just a few days, considering a long-term travel card or pass is a wise choice.

• Monthly Pass: For those making Budapest their home for over 15 days, this is your ticket to unlimited journeys across the city. It’s ideal for expats or long-term tourists who wish to seamlessly blend into the city’s daily rhythm.
• 15 Day Pass: Ideal for visitors planning a stay longer than 3 days but less than a month. This pass simplifies your travel and is a cost-effective choice after the 72 Hour Pass.

BPLX Tip: Both the 15 Day Pass and Monthly Pass remain valid until 2 AM following the expiration date, ensuring you’re covered for those late-night adventures!

Short Term Options

For short stays or quick city tours, Budapest offers convenient short-term travel cards to suit your schedule.

• 24 Hour Travel Card: Explore Budapest in a day! The 24 Hour Travel Card is perfect for a full day of sightseeing, offering unlimited access to the city’s public transport system.
• 72 Hour Travel Card: Maximize your three-day trip with the 72 Hour Travel Card. It’s an excellent choice for a weekend getaway or a short business trip.
• 24 Hour Group Travel Card: Traveling in a group? Perfect for friends and family riding the same vehicle, the 24 Hour Card for groups up to 5 people adds convenience and savings to your journey, making group travel a breeze.

Validating Your Travel Card / Pass

Understanding the validation process is crucial to enjoying a hassle-free travel experience in Budapest.

• Automatic Validation : Your travel card or pass activates automatically 2 minutes after purchase, unless a specific start time/date is specified at purchase.
• No Need for Validation : Unlike single or time-based tickets (30/90 minutes), these passes don’t require validation at machines.
• Evening and Weekend Bus Boarding : After 8 PM on weekdays and throughout weekends, front door-only boarding is implemented on most buses. Show your pass to the driver upon boarding.
• Metro Stations and Ticket Inspectors : If approached by a ticket inspector or at metro stations with ticket checks, simply present your pass for them to scan the QR code and verify its validity. Don’t get caught off guard and face penalties!

Embracing Convenience with BudapestGo

In the digital age, Budapest ensures your travel is as seamless and convenient as possible with the BudapestGo app. BudapestGo is your virtual travel companion, allowing you to plan your trip and purchase electronic tickets with just a few taps.

• Trip Planning: Get real-time updates and plan your journey across the city efficiently.
• Electronic Tickets: Purchase and store your travel cards and passes electronically, ensuring they’re always at your fingertips.

While BudapestGo offers a leap towards digital convenience, it’s wise to be prepared for situations when technology might fail us:

• No Mobile Internet?: If you find yourself without a mobile connection, it’s best to opt for a traditional paper ticket. Automated ticket machines are conveniently located throughout the city, ensuring you’re never left stranded.
• Keep Your Phone Charged: A dead phone battery is akin to not having a ticket. Always ensure your device is charged and ready for your journey.
• Got a Fine but Had a Valid Ticket?: If the unfortunate happens and your phone dies or you can’t prove your ticket’s validity due to connectivity issues, don’t worry. Visit a BKK Customer Service Center to address the situation. If you indeed had a valid ticket/pass, they can assist in reducing the fine/penalty.

Budapest Public Transit Vocab

Enhance your Budapest experience by learning some essential Hungarian public transit vocabulary.

• Busz (booz) – Bus
• Villamos (vee-lah-mosh) – Tram
• Metró (meh-tro) – Metro
• Jegy (yed-y) – Ticket
• Bérlet (bear-let) – Pass
• Megálló (meg-ah-lo) – Stop
• Pályaudvar (pah-ya-ood-var) – Station
• Menetrend (men-et-rend) – Schedule
• Járat (ya-rat) – Line (as in bus line, tram line)
• Ellenőr (el-luh-nur) – Inspector
• Érvényes (air-ven-yesh) – Valid
• Lejárt (lay-yart) – Expired
• Átszállás (aht-sah-lahsh) – Transfer
• Pótdíj (poat-dee-aj) – Surcharge
• Menetidő (men-et-e-doe) – Travel time
• Vonaljegy (vo-nal-yed-y) – Single ticket
• Korlátlan utazás (kor-lat-lan oo-ta-zash) – Unlimited travel
• Havi bérlet (hah-vee bear-let) – Monthly pass
• Napijegy (na-pi-yed-y) – Day ticket
• Csoportos jegy (cho-port-osh yed-y) – Group ticket

Join the Budapest Language Exchange Community

After navigating the city with your travel card or pass, why not dive deeper into the local culture? Budapest Language Exchange (BPLX) events are the perfect place to practice Hungarian, English, German, Spanish, French, and more. Connect with locals and expats in a fun and friendly environment, and make your Budapest experience truly unforgettable.

So, whether you’re here for a short visit or planning to stay a while, Budapest’s travel cards, coupled with your new Hungarian vocabulary, will surely make your journey smooth and enjoyable. See you at the next BPLX event!

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Budapest 7 Day Travel Card: Your Ultimate Guide

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

Are you planning a trip to Budapest? Exploring a new city can be exciting, but navigating public transportation systems can sometimes be overwhelming. To make your travel experience in Budapest hassle-free, let’s dive into the details of the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card.

What is the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card?

The Budapest 7 Day Travel Card is a convenient and cost-effective solution for unlimited travel on public transportation within Budapest for a period of seven consecutive days. With this card, you can easily explore the city’s attractions, museums, and enjoy the vibrant local culture without worrying about purchasing individual tickets or dealing with change.

How Does the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card Work?

The Budapest 7 Day Travel Card functions as an electronic ticket, allowing you to hop on and off various means of public transportation without any restrictions within the city. This includes buses, trams, metro lines, and even the funicular to Buda Castle.

Once you purchase the travel card, it becomes valid from the date and time of activation. It is essential to validate the card before starting your journey by touching it on the designated readers located at the entrance of metro stations and on buses and trams.

Where Can You Purchase the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card?

The Budapest 7 Day Travel Card can be purchased at various locations throughout the city, including:

• Public transportation ticket offices
• Vending machines at metro stations
• Some newsstands and tobacco shops
• Selected hotels and hostels

It is advisable to purchase the card in advance to avoid any inconvenience during your trip.

How Much Does the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card Cost?

The cost of the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card depends on the type of card you choose. Currently, the prices are as follows:

Please note that prices are subject to change, so it’s recommended to check the latest pricing information before your trip.

Benefits of the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card

Here are some significant advantages of using the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card:

• Unlimited travel: The card offers unlimited travel for seven consecutive days, allowing you to explore Budapest at your own pace.
• Cost-effective: If you plan to use public transportation regularly during your stay, the 7-day travel card offers excellent value for money compared to purchasing individual tickets.
• Convenience: With the travel card, you don’t need to worry about searching for loose change or buying tickets every time you board a bus or tram.
• Time-saving: Avoid waiting in long queues at ticket vending machines and save time for your exploration.

Tips for Using the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card

Plan your itinerary.

Before using the travel card, plan your itinerary and decide on the attractions you wish to visit. This way, you can make the most out of your unlimited travel.

Keep the card with you

Always carry the travel card with you during your exploration of Budapest. Inspectors may ask you to present valid tickets, and failure to do so may result in penalties.

Activate the card upon arrival

Remember to activate the card upon arrival in Budapest. The seven-day validity starts from the moment of activation.

Ask for assistance

If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to ask the staff of the public transportation system. They are usually friendly and ready to help.

The Budapest 7 Day Travel Card is an excellent choice for travelers who want to explore the beautiful city of Budapest without the hassle of individual tickets. With unlimited travel for seven consecutive days, you can enjoy a comfortable and cost-effective journey, visiting popular attractions, and immersing yourself in the local culture. Plan your itinerary, purchase the travel card in advance, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Budapest!

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The Budapest Travelcard

In terms of public transit coverage and ease of use, Budapest takes the cake. It was delightfully simple to get around the city and navigate buses , trams , and metros . In the summer, there are also ferries shuttling tourists and locals alike across the Danube River.

If you’ll be in Budapest for a full day or longer, we highly recommend buying the Travelcard.

A single fare on public transport costs 350 HUF, which is about $1.25. Cheap! However, we were moving around so frequently that we quickly saved money by purchasing a Travelcard.

Travelcard Prices

24-hour Travelcard: 1,650 HUF ($5.80)

72-hour Travelcard: 4,150 HUF ($14.80)

24-hour Group Travelcard: 3,300 HUF ($11.70)

7 Day Travelcard: 4,950 HUF ($17.70)

If you’re in a group of 3 or more, the group Travelcard is a great deal. Each group card can be used for up to 5 people. The only downfall is that you’ll have to buy a new 24 hour card each day of the trip.

If you’ll be in Budapest more than 3 days, the 7 Day pass is a fantastic deal!

Where to Buy a Travelcard in Budapest

We purchased our Travelcards at a customer service desk in the airport. There are also customer service centers at several of the popular metro stations in the heart of the city- Deák Ferenc tér, Keleti pályaudvar (which also houses the Keleti Train Station), and Móricz Zsigmond körtér, to name a few. You may also purchase a Travelcard from an automated kiosk available at many metro and bus stations. Use www.bkk.hu/salespoints to help find a location near you.

Caveats to the Budapest Travelcard

The uber-useful Travelcard does have a few limitations. It is not valid on the 100E airport bus, the funicular near the castle, and special Heritage Transport Vehicles. The Heritage Transport lines only run from May to October during the weekends, and are obviously marked. The Travelcard is available on boats during weekdays. On the weekend, you must buy a separate ticket for all boat routes except D14.

Using the Budapest Travelcard

Getting around Budapest is simple. We typically use Google Maps to determine which routes to use. For more info on how we do this, click here.

You will see plenty of signs reminding you to validate your ticket. However, if you hold a Travelcard, you do NOT need to validate your ticket each time you board. Instead, your card will be validated upon the start time you chose when you make the purchase, and will expire after the designated 24 or 72 hours.

Other than these minor rules, the Travelcard will give you the ability to see any popular destination in Budapest. It’s a great value, and navigating the public transit system is simple! We would strongly recommend getting one of these passes as soon as you arrive in Budapest.

The Budapest Travelcard is NOT the Budapest Citycard!

The Budapest Card should not be confused with the Travelcard. The City Card can also be used for the same free use of public transportation. It also provides entry to several museums and guided walking tours. We did not find the Budapest City Card to be useful to us, as it is much more expensive (About $50 per person for 72 hours, which is an additional $35) and we were not planning on making use of many of its perks. We would recommend checking out their website and deciding if your travel plans would make use of the added features.

Click here to return to our Budapest Public Transit Main Page.

Related posts:

• The Overnight Train from Budapest to Warsaw
• Using Public Transportation in Budapest
• Getting to Budapest from the Airport by Public Transit
• Using the Metro in Budapest

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Budapest Metro + Public Transportation

The city of Budapest has a rather extensive and useful public transit system known as BKK which includes the metro, tram, trolleys, buses, and even suburban trains (known as HEV lines).

This post will help you navigate each of the public transportation services in Budapest in addition to offering advice for saving money on tickets.

TICKETS AND DEALS

There are a few different ways to pay for admission to public transit in Budapest, and each option is valid on all vehicles including the metro, trams, trolleys, buses, and HEV trains.

The main method is simply to purchase a single ticket, which is good for one uninterrupted trip. 

There are also transfer tickets you can buy which allow you to move from one mode of transport to another.

There are several additional ticket options to choose from including metro section tickets and blocks of 10 tickets, but these are intended more for locals than travelers.

• Single Ticket: €1 (€1.25 if purchased onboard)
• Single Transfer Ticket: €1.50
• Metro Section Ticket: €0.85
• Block of 10 Tickets: €8.50

Learn more about these ticket types .

Alternatively, you could save avoid the potential hassle of figuring out the # and type of tickets you need and by purchasing a travel card instead.

There are 3 different versions of travel cards available in Budapest: 24-hour, 72-hour, and 7-day.

The 24-hour card can be purchased either for individual riders or for groups of up to 5 people.  

The 72-hour and 7-day cards are only available for individual riders.

Each travel card is valid on all public transport network vehicles, so you won’t need any other tickets to climb on board. 

These cards become valid the moment you purchase them, so we recommend that you don’t pick one up until you need it. 

In other words, if you get the pass at 9 pm, it will only be valid until 9 pm the next day. 

• 24-Hour Travel Card: €4.65
• Valid for up to 5 people (€1.87 per person)
• Price per day: €3.92
• Price per day: €2

How do I pay for public transport in Budapest?

Tickets and passes can be purchased either at ticket vending machines or newspaper kiosks. 

Most ticket offices have closed down in favor of the ticket vending machine, but occasionally you’ll find one at metro stations in the city.

You can also purchase tickets onboard buses for an additional fee.

Ticket inspectors randomly come aboard to check and make sure everyone has paid their fare, with fines up to €45, so be sure to validate your tickets. 

Another option is to purchase a tourist pass known as the Budapest Card . 

This service provides free public transport for the amount of time it is valid (1-5 days).

• 1-Day Budapest Card: €21.99
• Price per day: €16.49
• Price per day: €14.33
• Price per day: €13.25
• Price per day: €12.60

At first glance, the tourist pass may look a bit more expensive, but when you consider the fact that it also includes admission to dozens of popular attractions for free , the price makes more sense.

Additionally, you can also save up to 50% off many popular tours, landmarks, museums, amusement parks, and more.

Depending on how you use this concession pass, you could potentially save more money on public transport by using a Budapest Card instead of a travel card. 

Another nice thing about this tourist pass is that it only becomes valid when you activate it, so you can purchase it ahead of time. 

For more details on this service, please read our post covering Budapest tourist passes .

BUDAPEST METRO

There are currently 4 metro lines in Budapest that provide service to the city centre and some of the outskirts of the city. 

There are several stops that would be of interest to travelers and tourists.

Line 1 | Yellow Line

• Runs from Vörösmarty tér to Mexikói út.
• Includes stops at the Hungarian State Opera House, Heroes Square, City Park, and the Chain Bridge.

Line 2 | Red Line

• Runs from Buda’s Déli Pályaudvar to Pest’s Örs vezér Square.
• Includes stops at the Hungarian Parliament, Kossuth Square, Batthyány Square, and the Great Synagogue.

Line 3 | Blue Line

• Runs from Újpest városközpont to Kőbánya, Kispest.
• Includes a stop at the Great Market Hall, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hungarian National Museum, and more.
• Connects with bus 200E (airport transfer).

Line 4 | Green Line

• Runs from Keleti Train Station to Kelenföld Train Station.
• Includes stops at Bikás Park, the Gellért Thermal Baths, the Hungarian National Museum, the Great Market Hall, and more.

The metro opens every day at 4:30 am and runs until 23:00 (11 pm) at night. 

You can expect metro trains to make stops every 2-15 minutes on average depending on the time of day.

You’ll find ticket machines at most metro stations, and there are also ticket offices at a few locations as well. 

Before boarding, you must validate your ticket at one of the orange machines you’ll find at each station.

There are more than 40 different tram lines in Budapest, and you can distinguish them from the metro by their yellow color. 

While all the lines on this tram network are helpful for locals, tourists will find the following services most useful.

• Includes stops at the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, the House of Parliament, St. Gellert’s Hill, Buda Castle and more.
• Includes stops near the Buda Castle, Citadel, House of Parliament, Rákóczi Square Market Hall, and more.
• Tram 6 operates all night long .
• Includes stops near or at St. Anne’s Church, Gellért Hill, Gellért Spa, Citadella, Batthyány Square, and more.
• Includes stops at the Hungarian National Museum, the Great Market Hall, the Liberty Bridge, Lake Feneketlen, and more.
• Includes stops at Bauhaus Street, Körszálló (the Round Hotel), an enchanting forest, Hűvösvölgy and more.

Much like the metro, Budapest’s trams provide a lot of great stops that travelers and tourists might want to see. 

What sets this service apart from others is the greater accessibility and number of lines.

The Budapest trams run from 4:30 am to 11 pm each day, and the most popular lines run every 5-10 minutes on average. 

Typically, this service is a bit slower than the metro – especially when it comes to the most popular line, Tram 2 – but you probably won’t have to wait an excessively long time.

Every major tram stop will have a ticket machine nearby which you can use to purchase admission. 

Once you step on the tram, you’ll need to validate your ticket using the red, yellow or orange ticket validators on board.

There are over 250 bus lines in Budapest, which makes them one of the most difficult aspects of the public transit system to navigate.

That said, there are some reasons you may want to consider using the bus in this city, and a few great lines that are useful for travelers and tourists alike.

• Connects the airport with the Kőbánya-Kispest metro station.
• Connects Keleti Pályaudvar with Móricz Zsigmond Körtér.
• Includes stops at Blaha Lujza tér, Astoria, Ferenciek tere, Rudas Bath, Hotel Gellért and more.
• Connections with trams 4, 6, and the red, blue, and green metro lines.
• Connects Deák tér with Széll Kálmán tér.
• Includes stops at or near the Buda Castle Funicular, Buda Castle, Parade Square, Matthias Church and more.
• Connections with all metro lines at Deák tér.
• Connects Gyöngyösi utca with Apor Vilmos tér.
• Includes stops at Heroes Square, the Chain Bridge, as well as additional locations along Andrássy Avenue.
• Offers service all night long at stops marked with owl symbols.

Although there are a lot of blue buses that service popular stops in Budapest, there are just as many trams and metro trains that visit the same locations, so you may find that you won’t need to use the bus in this city.

That said, the airport transfer via bus 200E is definitely useful, and it’s unquestionably one of the most affordable ways to reach the city center – especially if you use a travel card or tourist pass.

There is also a 100E bus which is more of a shuttle bus, offering a direct transfer to the city center from Terminal 2.

This line also has more space for luggage, making it ideal for travelers.

This line costs around €2.70 for a ticket as opposed to the €1 fare on the 200E line, but there are fewer stops on the way to the city, and the bus is literally designed for airport transfers, so it’s definitely worth consideration.

It’s also nice that buses 900-999 provide service during the hours that other public transit options are usually not running (from 11 pm - 4:30 am).

In addition to that, the buses are one of the best ways to reach areas like the Buda Hills. If you need to reach the suburbs, consider this Budapest transport option.

Tickets can be purchased on board, but you’ll pay €0.25 more for the convenience. 

If you’d rather save some money, you can use a ticket machine, visit a post office, a travel card, or a concession pass .

In addition to all the traditional buses in Budapest, there are also 15 red-colored trolley bus lines in the city numbered 70-83. 

Each trolley connects with either the metro or trams at several locations throughout the city, making this an excellent alternative for transfers to other services in Budapest’s public transit system.

Here are a few details to keep in mind about each trolley:

• Includes stops at Transport Museum, Andrássy Avenue, Kossuth Square, and more.
• Connects with trams 2, 4, and 6, as well as lines 1 and 2 of the metro.
• Includes stops at Andrássy Avenue, Kossuth Square, Bethlen Gábor Square, and more.
• Includes stops at Kálvária Square, Gypsy Musician Park, Kalvin Square, and more. 
• Connects with trams 2, 4, 6, 47, 49, and metro line 4.

As with all other forms of public transportation in Budapest, you’ll need to purchase tickets either from a ticket machine or in the form of a travel card or tourist pass.

Much like the trams and metro, these red trolleybuses run from about 4:30 am - 11 pm, give or take a half-hour depending on which line you choose.

Otherwise known as suburban trains, this railway system is designed more for locals than for travelers and tourists, but there are some lines you might want to consider.

The Szentendre train (Line 5) runs from Batthyány tér to Szentendre, a small town on the bank of the Danube River that gives you a taste of Hungarian living.

This line also includes a stop at Aquincum, an ancient Roman city in Budapest that you might want to visit in order to see some of the ruins and historic architecture in the area.

Another great option is the line that runs from Örs Vezér tere to Gödöllo (Line 8), as Gödöllo is a popular little baroque village that houses the royal Gödöllo Palace and was one of Queen Elizabeth’s favorite residences.

Although these services can be helpful for anyone planning to take short day trips outside of Budapest, it’s important to note that anyone leaving the city center on an HÉV train will need an extension ticket.

These ticket prices depend on how far out you’ll be going. Here are the fares you can expect to pay:

• 10 Km Extension Ticket: €0.70
• 15 Km Extension Ticket: €0.85
• 20 Km Extension Ticket: €1.05
• 25 Km Extension Ticket: €1.30
• 30 Km Extension Ticket: €1.60

As you can see, even though you might have to pay a bit extra to use the HEV trains outside of the city, the prices are quite reasonable and definitely worth consideration. 

HÉV suburban railway trains run once every 10-30 minutes depending on the line and the time of day, and they provide service from 4:30 am - 12 am each day.

BOATS AND FUNICULARS

In addition to the metro, trams, buses, trolleys, and HEV trains, there are also a few public boats you can use in Budapest, as well as one funicular you might want to consider.

The public boat lines are provided along the Danube River between Boráros tér and Római fürdő from March to October. Here are the lines currently available:

• D11 | Haller utca - Újpest Árpád út
• D12 | Haller utca - Római Fürdő/Lido
• D13 | Haller utca - Római Fürdő
• D14 | Csepel-Királyerdő - Soroksár Molnár-sziget

Tickets for the public boat service are €2.10 for adults and €1.55 for children, and you can purchase them on board.

Alternatively, you can also use either travel cards or tourist passes for unlimited access to these boats.

When it comes to funiculars, there’s really only one of note that most travelers will want to consider: the Buda Castle funicular from Clark Adam Square.

This service is not included with any public transport ticket, travel card, or tourist pass, so you’ll have to purchase admission separately.

Here are the ticket prices:

• One Way: €2.85/Adults | €1.70/Children
• Return: €4.85/Adults | €3.15/Children

The Buda Castle funicular runs from 7:30 am - 10 pm each day, and it can be found at the Buda end of the Chain Bridge.

MOL BUBI PUBLIC BIKES

In addition to all the other options on Budapest public transport (BKK), they also offer bike rentals for those who want a little more control over their transportation.

All you have to do is download the free MOL Bubi app and use it to unlock a bike at one of the 190 stations throughout Budapest.

The app also includes a map, making it easy to find the closest station.

One of the best things about the Bubi bikes is that they are available 24/7, so even when the buses and trains aren't running, you can always grab a bike and use it to get around.

Pricing Options

There are three different ways to pay for this service: pay-as-you-go, a monthly pass, and an annual pass.

Most tourists will probably stick to the pay-as-you-go option, as even the monthly pass is going to make more sense for locals.

Pay-As-You-Go

• 40 HUF (€0.10) per minute
• 2400 HUF (€6) per hour
• 4800 HUF (€12) for 2 hours
• 9600 HUF (€24) for 4 hours

Monthly Pass

• 1000 HUF (€2.70)
• The first 30 minutes are free
• 40 HUF (€0.10) per minute after

Annual Pass

• 8500 HUF (€23)

Due to the way the pricing is structured, it actually makes more sense to get a monthly pass if you plan to use Bubi bikes multiple times over several days, even if you're just visiting on vacation.

The monthly and annual pass options allow you to use a bike for 30 minutes for free, and all you have to do is return it to one of the many stations in time to avoid additional fees.

Once you've returned a bike, you can take out another one and restart the 30 minute timer.

If you're planning to do some sightseeing, this might be a good way to get from one attraction to the next, as most landmarks have a station nearby.

RELATED POSTS:

• Tourist Attraction Concession Passes
• Things to Do in Budapest
• Hop-On-Hop-Off Buses

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Budapest Card: guide, review and comparison

The Budapest Card is the official tourist pass offering free entry to more than 30 museums and attractions in the city, free entry to the thermal baths and the Lukács Baths and unlimited use of all public transport , such as the BKK bus, metro and tram.

Furthermore, the 72h Plus version of the card, in addition to the 100 services included in the Budapest Card, offers a miniBUD airport transfer, a Danube cruise , a funicular railway ride to Buda Castle, admission to Matthias Church and a typical Hungarian dessert, Molnár’s kürtőskalács.

The Budapest Card is the best way to get access to public transport and tickets to Budapest’s main attractions at a reduced price or even for free, if you want to buy it you can do so conveniently online by visiting Budapest Card booking page , otherwise discover all the benefits below.

What is included in the Budapest Card

The Budapest Card includes free entry to almost all of the city’s most important museums and discounts at many attractions and activities. It also allows unlimited use of city transport for as long as the card is valid. Specifically, here is what you get

• Free admission to Budapest’s major museums and attractions
• Unlimited travel on public transport, whether you take the metro, trams or buses. Bus 200E to/from the airport is also included
• Free admission to the Lukacs Baths , one of the oldest thermal baths in the city
• Guided walking tours in English in Buda and Pest
• Official tourist bus in the Castle District
• Discounts of up to 50% on many other tours and attractions

Attractions included in the Budapest Card

There are many museums and attractions included in the Budapest Card , such as the Castle Museums (National Gallery and Historical Museum) or the beautiful Lukács Thermal Baths: see the full list below. Unfortunately, free admission to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, one of the city’s most visited attractions, is not included.

• Hungarian National Gallery
• Hungarian National Museum
• Budapest Museum of Fine Arts
• Castle Museum
• Memento Park, Statue Museum
• Robert Capa Centre for Contemporary Photography
• House of Hungarian Photographers – Mai Manó Ház
• Museum Ludwig – Museum of Contemporary Art
• Aquincum Museum
• Ferenc Hopp Museum of Oriental Arts
• Vasarely Museum
• Kiscelli Museum

Other attractions included in the Budapest Card

• Free visit to Buda Tower
• Free visit to the Pálvölgyi Caves
• Free official castle bus
• Free guided walking tours of Pest and Buda
• Free admission to the Lukács Baths and swimming pool
• Free ride on the Zugligeti chairlift

Free guided tours in Buda and Pest

Guided tours in Buda and Pest start daily at 10 a.m. with a meeting point in district 5, Vàci Utca 31, in front of Kurtoskalacs in Molnár. The tour to Buda, on the other hand, starts at 2 p.m., at the Castle, from the Trinity statue. The tours last about two hours and are both in English.

Discounted admission with the Budapest Card

In addition to these not insignificant advantages, there are a series of discounts of up to 50% at museums, restaurants, cafés, thermal baths and other services. The most interesting are those for St Stephen’s Basilica, the Great Synagogue, Danube cruises and so on.

Among the discounted activities are admissions to various thermal baths , such as a 20 per cent discount at the Széchenyi Baths , Gellért Baths , Rudas Baths and other establishments in the city. The Budapest Card also provides discounts for a number of restaurants and pubs throughout Budapest.

• 50% discount for St Stephen’s Hall in Buda Castle
• 25% discount on Legenda City Cruises
• 25% discount for the Museum Hospital in the Rock and the Antiatomic Bunker
• 20% discount for the Hop-On Hop-Off bus
• 20% discount at Széchenyi Baths, Rudas Baths, Aquaworld Resort Budapest and Lupa Beach
• 20% discount on door-to-door airport transfer service with miniBUD
• 10% discount for the Budapest Great Synagogue
• 10-20% discount at Molnár’s Kürtőskalács Restaurant, Halászbástya Étterem, Zsolnay Kávéház, Párisi Passage Restaurant, Café Astoria Restaurant, Hard Rock Cafe

Types of Budapest Card

There are various types of Budapest Card, which differ from each other in terms of the duration of validity; the services included always remain the same. There is a first card that is valid for 24 hours from the moment of activation, and then there are cards valid for 48 hours, 72 hours, 96 hours and 120 hours.

Budapest Card 72 Hours Plus

For an even more complete experience, you can purchase the Budapest Card 72 Hours Plus , which also includes

• round-trip mini-BUD transfer
• a boat cruise on the Danube
• a round trip on the Buda Castle funicular railway
• access to Matthias Church
• a Molnár’s kürtöskalács, a typical Hungarian sweet

Budapest Card 72 e-XPLORER

As of 2023, a digital version of Budapest Card 72 is also available, called Budapest Card 72 e-XPLORER . Unlike the physical card, you will receive the e-card by email in PDF format and can use it from your smartphone and, in addition to the same benefits as the Budapest Card, it also includes

• free unlimited Hop On Hop Off bus tours
• free cruises on the Danube
• free entry to the Cinema Mystica light show

How much does the Budapest Card cost

The Budapest Card can be valid for 24, 48, 72, 96 or 120 hours, depending on the duration the price changes of course. The 72 Plus and 72 e-XPLORER versions cost more than the basic version.

How to buy and activate the Budapest Card

The Budapest Card can be purchased online on this page or by filling in the form below and you can pick it up at the Budapest Info Point Városháza Park every day from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., or directly upon arrival at the airport, at the BKK Customer Service Centres in Budapest Airport Terminals 2A and 2B.

Once you have purchased the card you need to validate it by signing it, adding the date and time you wish to start using it. Simply show the Budapest Card at the ticket counters of the museums included in the programme in order to obtain free admission or a discount.

An alternative to the Budapest Card: the Tiqets Budapest Pass

The innovative Budapest Pass from Tiqets is actually a combination ticket: with a single pass you buy admission to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths (and the Palinka Museum), and a ticket for a sightseeing cruise on the Danube. In addition, you can download an app with a Budapest tourist guide and get a 10% discount on tickets to other Budapest attractions on the Tiqets website.

The card is cheap if you only intend to visit the attractions included in the Pass and nothing else! Also remember that it does not include transport.

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Budapest Card – The Official City Pass

The best choice for discovering Budapest! An all around solution for transportation and attraction entries.

• Unlimited free public transport
• Free Budapest guide and map
• 30+ free entries to museums, attractions
• Free sightseeing walking tours
• Free thermal bath entry
• Free cruise on the Danube
• 50+ discounts

See the full list of acceptance points here .

Types and prices from May 1, 2024:

• 24-hour card: EUR 39
• 48-hour card: EUR 53
• 72-hour card: EUR 69
• 72-hour PLUS card: EUR 99
• 96-hour card: EUR 87
• 120-hour card: EUR 96

Payment can be made by credit card or cash. MÁV-START coupons are not accepted.

Budapest Card is available at the following customer service offices:

• Budapest Keleti Utascentrum
• Budapest-Déli

For more information visit  https://www.budapestinfo.hu/en/budapest-card .

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Budapest Transport Tickets

Public transport in Budapest is somewhat expensive . A single ticket is pricier than in other European cities like Madrid or Barcelona and is not very flexible.

We recommend getting a travel card if you plan to use any of the city’s main transportation: the  Budapest Metro , the tram system or urban buses .

Note that a one-way ticket is only valid for an interrupted ride , so if you want to change metro lines, you should buy a "transfer ticket" before doing so.  

There are many ticket collectors in Budapest’s public transport systems, especially in the metro, so make sure to buy a transport ticket before using any means of transportation. The fines can be up to 16,000 Ft ( US$ 44.40).

Single tickets or a travel card?

Unless you want to explore Budapest by foot , we recommend purchasing a 24h- travel card , 72-h pass, or a 7-day travel card , depending on how long you're in Budapest, instead of getting a single ticket each time.

These are some of the advantages of buying a travel card instead of one-journey tickets:

• You won’t waste time buying tickets every time you use the public transport system.
• You won’t have to remember to validate your ticket .
• You can use any means of transportation and as many times as you need per day.
• You'll avoid possible penalty fares .

Another advantage is that you can use your travel pass to get from Budapest Airport  to the city center if you buy the travel pass in one of the terminals. 

3-day travel card or the Budapest Card?

If you want to visit several of Budapest’s museums and landmarks or if you’re traveling with children less than 14 years old, we recommend you check out the Budapest Card. It includes free public transport and discounts for most museums, spas and monuments.

Where to buy the transport tickets?

Tickets are available either at the Airport , the various metro stations, tobacconists , news-stands, and from the transport inspectors.

You may also be interested in

Taxis in Budapest are relatively cheap and a comfortable and quick way of getting around the city. Nevertheless, you should read our useful tips and discover what the average taxi tariffs are, so you're not overcharged.

Where to Eat

Hungarian cuisine is typically seasoned with spices, especially paprika. The helpings are normally large and filling and the prices are normally cheaper than other European capitals. 

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Getting Around Budapest: Guide to Public Transportation

Although Budapest is a walkable city, it’s easy to get around thanks to its excellent public transport network operated by the BKK (Budapest Center of Transport) . If you’re not planning to go outside the Hungarian capital, it’s best not to rent a car as you’ll get around the city more quickly and easily with its extensive metro, tram, and bus system. This guide will help you prepare for your trip to Budapest, so you’ll be riding the subway and the tram like a local in no time.

How to Ride the Budapest Metro 

Although buses and trams are the primary forms of transport in Budapest, the metro is the easiest way to get around the city for a first-timer. It is also the quickest way to get around the city. There are currently four metro lines, so it’s simple to navigate the city. Not to mention, metro line 1 is the oldest subway in continental Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Fares: Single tickets cost 350 Hungarian forints and you can change metro lines with a single ticket. Travel passes are also available for 24 hours (1,650 forints), 72 hours (4,150 forints), or a week (4,950 forints), which cover all modes of transportation. If you get a Budapest Card , you can have unlimited transport for the period you choose. If you have a single ticket, validate it in one of the validation boxes at the metro entrance—usually by the escalators—and keep it with you until the end of the journey.
• Routes and Hours: The metro runs daily from 4:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. from the first stop of each line, with trains coming every 2 to 5 minutes during the day and every 10 minutes during early morning and late evenings. There are four metro lines, line 1 (yellow) runs from Vörösmarty tér to Mexikói út. Line 2 (red) goes from Déli pályaudvar in Buda to Örs Vezér tere in Pest, and line 3 (blue) runs between Újpest-Központ and Kőbánya-Kispest on the Pest side of the river. Line 4 (green) is the newest and goes between the Kelenföld train station in Buda and the Keleti train station in Pest.
• Service Alerts: The metro, in general, is pretty reliable, but occasionally there are delays or closures, especially on metro line 3, which is undergoing renovation. Replacement buses run when the metro isn’t operational. You can check any updates at bkkinfo.hu or download the BKK app , which shows the estimated time for the next mode of transport.
• Accessibility: Metro line 4 is fully accessible, with elevators even running up to the platform. Line 1 is only accessible by stairs, line 3 has an elevator only at Kőbánya-Kispest station, and there are only three stations (Örs Vezér tere, Pillangó utca, and Puskás Ferenc stadion) that are fully accessible on line 2. You can read more about the accessible transport options on the BKK website.

Riding the Tram

Budapest’s tram network is extensive. More than 390 million passengers take the tram yearly, which is almost 100 million more than the metro. 

• Routes: There are more than 30 routes operating on nearly 100 miles of track across Budapest. The most popular lines are the 4 and 6, which run along the Grand Boulevard, connecting Buda and Pest. Tram line 2 offers the most scenic route, as this takes you along the Pest embankment, with the 41 and 19 running parallel on the Buda side. The 47 and 49 trams operate on Small Boulevard to transport hub Deák Ferenc tér.
• Hours: Trams generally run between 4:30 a.m. and 12:30 a.m. from the end of the line. The tram line 6 runs 24 hours a day, every day.
• Fares: Fares for the tram are the same as for the metro. You will need to validate your ticket on board. Modern trams punch the ticket automatically. On older trams you will need to put the ticket in the validation box and pull the slot you put the ticket in hard to punch the ticket. Random ticket inspections are common, and if you are caught without a valid ticket, you will be fined. You can only use one ticket on one tram, so if you change lines, you will need to use another ticket.

How to Pay for Budapest’s BKK Network

There are many ways to buy a ticket or a pass. You can get them at the ticket offices in most metro stations, some newsagents or post offices, or from ticket vending machines. You can take a look at the interactive BKK map , which gives you all the sales points in the city, but the easiest ways to buy a ticket are:

• At the ticket office: You can usually find a ticket office in most metro stations. You can pay with cash or card.
• From the BKK Ticket vending machine: Most tram or bus stops, and metro stations, will have a purple ticket machine where you can buy tickets and passes any time of day. These accept both card and cash (even notes, you will get the change back in coins). All machines have the option to switch to an English language version.
• From the bus driver: If you need to take a bus, you can buy tickets directly from the driver (tickets cost 450 forints), and you must pay in cash.
• Via the Mobiljegy app: You can buy passes on the BKK mobile ticket app. You can read more about how this works on their website .

There are different bus services operating within Budapest. There are the standard blue buses and the red trolleybuses, which use overhead cables. While buses cross the city center, they are also best way to reach neighborhoods further into the suburbs, like the Buda Hills. Some buses require you to board at the front and show your ticket or pass to the driver. There are night bus services that run once the metro, tram, and regular buses shut down for the night.

BHÉV Suburban Train

There is a suburban train network, called the BHÉV, which takes you to the outer limits of the city and beyond. Most visitors will take the BHÉV to the town of Szentendre for the day. Your tickets and passes are valid on these within the city limits. However, if you are planning to go beyond, you’ll need an extension ticket you can buy from the ticket offices or the purple machines.

Airport Bus

The 100E airport bus offers a direct link to the city center, running between the airport to Kálvin tér and Deák Ferenc tér, and takes 40 minutes. Buses run every 10 to 20 minutes from 3:40 a.m. to 12:40 a.m. Single tickets cost 900 forints.

If you need a taxi, there are plenty of options. Never hail a cab from the street, as many companies are looking to scam foreign visitors, but call a reputable company like Főtaxi , City Tax i, or 6X6 . Alternatively, you can also download the Bolt app and order a cab that way (if you’re used to Uber, Bolt operates more or less the same way).

Anyone can use this bike-sharing system. Just walk around the city and look out for the lime green BuBi bikes . They can be rented for 24 hours, 72 hours, seven days, or get longer-term passes. Once you’ve got your time ticket, you can use the bike for free for the first 30 minutes, after which you’ll be charged an additional 500 forints for every 30 minutes used. You can buy the tickets using a bank card from the touchscreen terminals at the docking station, or on the website . There is a deposit of 25,000 forints, which is returned when you return the bike.

The BKK Boat 

The best way to see Budapest is to go by boat, and if you’re on a budget, you can take the BKK boat service for a couple of dollars. Tickets on the boat cost 750 forints one way, and in the summer, some of the boat lines run from Kopaszi Gát to Római Part. In the winter, there are fewer services and shorter routes. You can see more about the boat services on the BKK website.

Tips for Getting Around Budapest 

Transport in Budapest is affordable and convenient, but you can make life a little easier by following a few tips. 

• Validate and keep your ticket. If you are not using a pass, make sure you validate the ticket and keep it on you at all times. Sometimes plain clothes inspectors get on the tram or bus to check at random, and it’s also possible inspectors check tickets as you leave the metro. Getting caught without a valid ticket means a hefty fine and an unpleasant encounter that ruins your trip. 
• Don’t travel at rush hour. The tram, metro, and bus buses can get pretty packed between 8 and 9 a.m., and between 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Try to avoid traveling during those times if possible.
• Keep an eye on your belongings. Budapest is generally a safe city, but like any capital, you have a risk of pickpockets. It’s possible to put your phone in your pocket for 30 seconds only to find it gone when you reach back in. 
• Download the BKK App. The BKK Futár app will tell you when all modes of transport run to real time, and it can make it so much easier to plan your trip. 
• Use Bolt if you need a taxi. Bolt is so easy to use, especially if you’re worried about the language barrier or getting taken advantage of. You can see your route in live time, get fare estimates, and see where your driver is while you wait.

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Bonus Card Coordinator Iberia & 3rd Party Relationship Manager Europe

• Location Hungary - Budapest
• Travel required No travel is expected with this role
• Job category Business Support Group
• Relocation available This role is not eligible for relocation
• Job type Professionals
• Job code RQ085356
• Experience level Intermediate

Job summary

Job Family Group:

Job Description:

We are a global energy business involved in every aspect of the energy system. We are working towards delivering light, heat and mobility to millions of people, every day. We are one of the very few companies equipped to solve some of the complex challenges that matter for the future. We have a real contribution to make to the world's ambition of a low carbon future. Join us, and be part of what we can accomplish together. You can participate in our new ambition to become a net zero company by 2050 or sooner, and to help the world get to net zero. 

In Hungary, we operate bp’s Global Business Services organization which is an integrated part of bp. Our people want to play their part in solving the complex challenges facing our world today and, guided by our bp values, are working to help meet the world’s need for more energy while lowering carbon emissions. In our offices in Budapest and Szeged, we work in customer service, finance, accounting, procurement, HR services and other enabling functions – providing solutions across all of bp. Join our team, and develop your career in an encouraging, forward-thinking environment!

Would you like to discover how our diverse, hardworking people are leading the way in making energy cleaner and better – and how you can play your part in our world-class team? Join our Budapest Customer Team and advance your career as a Bonus Card Coordinator Iberia & 3rd Party Relationship Manager Europe

Customer teams are dealing with sales support processes, account management, order taking, invoicing, cash collection, pricing, service request management and supply chain management activities.  

The Bonus Card Coordinator Iberia & 3rd party Relationship Manager is responsible to manage the 3rd parties who are doing the operational activities around the Bonus Card in Spain and Portugal. Besides that, the job holder is pivotal in managing and nurturing the relationships with third-party vendors and partners who are doing 1st line activities (Spain) and further supporting activities of the Spanish and Portuguese businesses, SuperCard in Poland and well as other 3rd parties at European level This role ensures that all collaborations align with the company's strategic goals and compliance standards.

In this role You will:

• Ensure smooth operations and a successful support of the Bonus Card business in Iberia to grow the business and Supercard in Poland
• Oversee the 3rd party provider teams in required countries, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary system and process knowledge to provide exceptional customer service, applying all bp policies regarding trainings and bp systems for 3rd parties
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate third-party services into company operations effectively.
• Manage 3rd party users set up to access to bp systems.
• Train in local languages third-party teams when needed. (e.g. New offer launch, offer & process updates)
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with third-party vendors and partners.
• Negotiate contracts and manage the procurement process to ensure favorable terms coordinating this with procurement local experts.
• Monitor and evaluate third-party performance, payments & budgets to ensure compliance with service level agreements and cost plans. agreed with third party and business
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with third-party engagements.
• Coordinate with Sales, Marketing & Credit any implementation of initiatives that will impact the service (e.g. Bonus promotions, new credit procedures…)
• Be accountable of all info/files required in contracts for further activities are delivered correctly and on time. (SP: Tarjeta Empresa, RACE, Prepaid & Bonus Canaries)
• C2nd level support for EETS, DCS,  I&E, Referal Partner (Depot/Home GY)
• Compiled all files sent by this 3rd monthly and report them to performance teams.

What You will need to be successful:

• Educated to university level or equivalent experience.
• Excellent English – both written and oral English communication
• Exhibit excellent verbal and written communication skills in Spanish and Portuguese
• 3-5 years operational experience in Sales and Customer management
• Experience of working with a diverse team across different geographies
• Experience with SAP functionality is an advantage.
• Proven experience in third-party or vendor management.
• Excellent understanding of contracts or other binding documents
• Action oriented and able to deal with multiple relationships effectively
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work independently and make informed decisions.
• Develops creative solutions and helps others to be creative

At bp, we provide the following environment & benefits to you:

• Different bonus opportunities based on performance, wide range of cafeteria elements
• Life & health insurance, medical care package
• Flexible working schedule: home office up to 2 days / week, based on team agreement
• Opportunity to build up long term career path and develop your skills with wide range of learning options
• Family friendly workplace e.g.: Extended parental leave, Mother-baby room
• Employees’ wellbeing programs e.g.: Employee Assistance Program, Company Recognition Program
• Possibility to join our social communities and networks
• Chill-out and collaboration spaces in our beautiful Budapest Agora and Szeged offices e.g.: Play Zones, Office massage, Sport and music equipment
• Assets like phone for private usage and company laptop are provided from the first day of employment with other equipment if requested

bp Hungary won the Most Attractive Employer 2023 Award (SSC / BSC sector) third time in a row at PwC's annual employer research. Come and join us!

Travel Requirement

Relocation Assistance:

Remote Type:

Legal Disclaimer:

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, socioeconomic status, neurodiversity/neurocognitive functioning, veteran status or disability status. Individuals with an accessibility need may request an adjustment/accommodation related to bp’s recruiting process (e.g., accessing the job application, completing required assessments, participating in telephone screenings or interviews, etc.). If you would like to request an adjustment/accommodation related to the recruitment process, please  contact us . If you are selected for a position and depending upon your role, your employment may be contingent upon adherence to local policy. This may include pre-placement drug screening, medical review of physical fitness for the role, and background checks.

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3 Pickleball Travel Destinations to Dink Away From Home

Many or all of the products on this page are from partners who compensate us when you click to or take an action on their website, but this does not influence our evaluations or ratings. Our opinions are our own.

The American obsession with pickleball rages on. Last year, nearly 14 million people played pickleball in the U.S., according to a 2023 study by the Sports and Fitness Industry Association. That’s a growth rate of almost 224% over the past three years, easily making pickleball the fastest-growing sport in the country since 2020.

Entrepreneurs and professional athletes have gotten in on the craze, and now, the travel industry is trying to capitalize. From cruise lines and traditional resorts to pickleball-specific vacation planners offering coaching in paradise, everyone seems to want a piece of the pickle pie.

Here are some money-saving tips and top places to look if you want to dink, drive and drop away from home.

1. 'Dink' on a pickleball cruise

Nowhere is the growth of pickleball more evident than on cruise ships.

In 2022, Carnival Cruise Line installed a dedicated pickleball court on the Carnival Conquest ship. Other companies have followed suit. Norwegian Cruise Line offers dedicated courts on the Norwegian Prime and Norwegian Viva vessels, and Regent Seven Seas has dedicated courts on the Splendor, Explorer and Grandeur. Perhaps that's why cruise demand is so high .

Those dedicated courts are important for experienced players looking to get in as many games as possible. Many of the bigger cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Princess and Celebrity, offer pickleball, but only for a set period each day on mixed-use courts with other sports like volleyball and basketball.

Holland America , the “exclusive cruise line of the Professional Pickleball Association,” has outfitted their entire fleet of cruise ships with dedicated pickleball courts on the top deck. That means you can practice your drop shot against a glacial backdrop in Alaska’s fjords or while cruising across the Mediterranean Sea. The cruise line offers complimentary beginner’s lessons and organized tournaments throughout your time at sea.

If you prefer river cruises, AmaWaterways has a dedicated pickleball court on the top deck of its boat AmaMagna, allowing picklers to play while floating down the Danube River through central Europe.

If you don’t want to travel with your own paddle and balls, most facilities offer public paddles. But let’s be real — if you’ve made it this far, you’ll probably be taking your own paddle.

How much does it cost?

Cruises will vary in price based on duration and amenities. A seven-day cruise with Carnival could cost under $700 per person, whereas a seven-day luxury cruise on Regent Seven Seas could cost nearly $7,000.

If you’re looking to help offset that cost, consider a travel rewards credit card that earns points you can redeem for cruises. With the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , you can pay for a cruise with your card and receive a statement credit when you redeem miles against the purchase. You'll also earn 2 miles per dollar spent on all qualifying purchases, and new cardholders can receive a massive sign-up bonus: Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel. ( see rates and fees ).

2. 'Drive' at luxury or all-inclusive pickleball resorts

If floating resorts aren’t your thing, consider taking your pickleball swag south of the border to an onshore tropical paradise.

Sandals Resorts in Jamaica, the Bahamas, St. Lucia, and Antigua all offer dedicated pickleball courts. And new courts are being installed at other locations. Many of the resorts organize tournaments and have in-house pros to provide instruction during your trip. The entire Sandals Resorts portfolio is all-inclusive, so you can put more thought into your dink and worry less about where to find your next fruity umbrella drink.

Or check out Turks and Caicos, where you can find permanent courts at the Beaches Resort, Club Med Turkoise and Seven Stars Resort and Spa. Pickleball has become such a draw that it’s even mentioned on the “things to do” page of the islands’ tourism website.

You can also find pickleball courts at resorts across Costa Rica, Mexico and the Dominican Republic. If you’re traveling with a pickle crew, try calling the company to negotiate a group rate for the stay.

The cost of a resort stay will vary depending on the room you book, amenities offered, location and stay duration. A seven-night stay at a Sandals Resort can cost $4,000 to $7,000 for two people, but non-inclusive resorts will often cost much less.

If you're looking to book a pickleball-based resort stay, consider grabbing a credit card that earns flexible travel rewards. For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card earns Chase Ultimate Rewards that can be used to book select resorts through the Chase travel portal , which is powered by Expedia . That means you can access Expedia's travel inventory through the Chase portal. With enough points, you could also book your airfare and transportation.

3. 'Drop' on a group pickleball vacation

The activity-based travel industry is expanding to meet demand for the fastest growing sport in the country. That includes the rise of numerous white-glove vacation organizers helping to bring picklers together.

“The only thing you have to worry about is your flight,” says Georgia Johns, operations manager for Pickleball Getaways, a pickleball-centric vacation organizer. Once you book your trip through their website, the company will handle the rest, including ground transportation, food, beverages and lodging at your destination.

The company was started by professional pickleball players Ben Johns and Dekel Bar with the aim to combine the fun of international vacations with high-quality pickleball coaching and competition in locations that include Portugal, Spain, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico and Antigua.

Seven-day trips with Pickleball Getaways cost between $2,500 and $4,500 per person depending on the location, which can include up to 80 guests in addition to four to seven professional players or coaches to provide instruction.

Since flights aren't covered, consider using airline miles to keep your costs down. The easiest way to earn miles is with a co-branded credit card from an airline that serves your local airport.

Delta flyers may consider the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card . You'll earn 2x miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases, restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets ( see rates and fees ). New cardholders can also grab the following welcome offer: Earn 80,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.