How to Get From Budapest Airport to the City Centre by Bus, Train, Metro, Taxi & Private Transfer

Welcome to Budapest!

Arriving at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is the start of an amazing adventure in the Hungarian capital. But before you can enjoy the thermal baths, the Lake Balaton, the ruin bars, or the history, you need to solve the first puzzle of any trip: getting from the airport to your hotel in the city centre.

Located about 21 km (14 miles) from the city centre, the airport is well connected by bus, taxi and private transfer. While Terminal 1 is closed, Terminal 2 (2A and 2B) handles all passenger traffic. But navigating a new city can be stressful. In this guide, we break down the best ways to get from Budapest Airport to the city centre, updated with the latest 2025/2026 prices and schedules.

To help you decide, we have broken down the top transport options side-by-side. From the speed of a private transfer to the value of the express bus, check out this comparison of costs, travel times, and convenience ratings to see which mode of transport suits your trip best.

Before you rush to the city centre, here are the essential logistics you need to know about landing at Ferenc Liszt International Airport to help you hit the ground running:

• Airport Code: BUD (Ferenc Liszt International Airport).
• Distance to city centre: Approximately 21 km (35–45 minutes by road).
• Terminals: Flights arrive at Terminal 2A (Schengen) or Terminal 2B (Non-Schengen). They are connected by a short indoor walkway and share the same curbside pickup area.
• Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF).
  ➡ Exchange Rate: Rates fluctuate, but expect approx 360–380 HUF = $1.00 USD and 390–400 HUF = €1.00 EUR.
• WiFi: Free WiFi is available throughout the airport. Connect immediately to use travel apps like hoppa.

The 100E Airport Express is the direct shuttle bus connecting the airport with the city centre. It is the most popular choice for travellers who want a balance between speed and cost, making it the ideal option for solo travellers and budget backpackers.

• Cost: 2,200 HUF (~$6 / €5.60).
  ➡ Important note: This requires a special "Airport Shuttle Bus Single Ticket." Standard city tickets and travel passes are NOT valid.
• Route: Direct from Airport → Kálvin tér → Astoria → Deák Ferenc tér (City Centre).
• Travel time: Approx. 40 minutes.
• Frequency: Runs 24/7. Every 6–10 minutes during the day, and every 30–40 minutes late at night.

• BudapestGO app: The easiest method. Purchase on your phone and scan the QR code when boarding.
• Pay&Go: You can tap your contactless credit card directly on the yellow readers on the bus (no paper ticket needed).
• BKK machines: Purple ticket vending machines are located at the bus stop and inside the arrivals hall.
• Payment: Card only (or via app).

If you haven't pre-booked and prefer a traditional taxi service without using an app, Főtaxi is the stress-free winner. It is the only official transport partner allowed to wait at the main curbside taxi rank.

• Best for: Travellers without a smartphone or those who prefer spontaneity.
• Look for: Yellow cars with the "Főtaxi" logo.
• Cost: Metered. Meters start at a base fare of ~1,100 HUF plus ~440 HUF/km. A trip to the city centre typically costs 11,000–14,000 HUF (€30–35), depending on traffic.

1. Exit the building: Walk out of the Arrivals Hall at either Terminal 2A or 2B.
2. Find the booth: Look for the red, white, and green Főtaxi booth located on the sidewalk immediately outside the exit.
3. Get a ticket: Tell the staff your destination. They will print a voucher with an estimated price and your taxi's license plate number.
4. Queue: Walk a few steps to the taxi rank and get in the car that matches your ticket number.

For travellers who prefer booking on the go using their smartphone, ride-hailing is a convenient option. Since Uber does not operate in Budapest, you have two primary choices: Bolt or the hoppa app.

Bolt is the leading alternative to Uber in Hungary.

• Cost: Typically 11,000 – 14,000 HUF (~$30–38 / €28–35), depending on demand.
• How to use: Download the Bolt app, set up your payment, and order a ride upon arrival.

For the most flexibility, use the hoppa app to search, compare, and hail rides from trusted local providers (including Bolt and local fleets) instantly.

• Convenience: Compare prices in real-time and book a ride the moment you land.
• Safety: All providers on the app are vetted and licensed.
• Flexibility: Select "Ride Now" for instant pickup, or choose "Private" or "Shared" if you prefer to book in advance.

1. Connect to WiFi: Log in to the free airport WiFi immediately upon landing.
2. Open the app: Open the hoppa app (or Bolt). Enter "Budapest Airport" as your pickup and your hotel as the destination. Select "Ride Now". Then hit “Search”.
3. Exit the terminal: Walk out of the Arrivals Hall doors. DO NOT go to the main taxi line immediately in front of you.
4. Follow "Ride App" Signs: Walk slightly to the left (from Terminal 2B) or right (from Terminal 2A).
5. Locate the zone: Head towards the dedicated "Pre-booked / App Pickup" parking zone. The app will usually indicate a specific pillar number or parking bay where your driver is waiting.

For the smoothest, most stress-free arrival, booking a private transfer is the gold standard. We recommend using hoppa to organise your transport. Unlike standard taxis, hoppa allows you to compare and book the perfect ride before you land, ensuring a competitive fixed price and no hidden fees.

• Best for: Families, groups, business travellers, or anyone anxious about navigating a new city after a long flight.
• Price: Competitive, honest fares usually start around €28 – €40 per vehicle (depending on your selection).
• Why choose it: It guarantees a seamless door-to-door experience. You skip the taxi queues, avoid haggling, and get straight to your hotel in comfort. While providers like Bolt or local fleets operate here, hoppa allows you to compare them to find the best possible rate.

Booking your transfer in advance is the best way to ensure a smooth arrival at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD). Follow these simple steps to secure your ride to the city centre.

Step 1: Book online with flight details

Reserve your transfer in advance using the secure hoppa website or app. Simply enter your flight times, arrival date, number of passengers, and your Budapest hotel or accommodation address to ensure perfect coordination with your driver.

Step 2: Select your preferred vehicle & add your extras

Browse the available vehicles, from private sedans to luxury private cars. You’ll see the exact, clear price for each option.

Step 3: Receive e-ticket with instructions

You will receive an instant confirmation email containing your e-ticket. This important document includes your driver’s contact details, specific meeting point information at Budapest Airport, and your scheduled pick-up time.

Step 4: Relax during your journey

Sit back and enjoy the approximately 35–45 minute drive to downtown Budapest in Hungary. Use the time to relax while your driver navigates the road, getting you ready for your Hungarian adventure.

1. Land & collect bags: After clearing passport control, pick up your luggage in the Baggage Claim area.
2. Exit customs: Walk through the green "Nothing to Declare" doors into the main Arrivals Hall.
3. Look for the sign: Your driver will be waiting directly inside the Arrivals Hall holding a sign with your name (or the hoppa logo).
4. Go to the car and enjoy the ride: The driver will assist with your luggage and lead you to the vehicle parked in the priority pickup lane just outside.

➡ Tip: If you can't find your driver, always check your e-ticket booking confirmation for a specific meeting point or contact number.

If you are travelling solo or as a couple and want door-to-door service without the price tag of a private taxi, shared shuttles are the perfect middle ground. You have two primary choices: pre-booking a best-value transfer via hoppa or using the official miniBUD service.

Booking through hoppa often provides the most competitive rates by comparing local providers. It offers the same convenient door-to-door service but allows you to pay in your home currency (EUR/USD/GBP) and secure your ride in advance.

• Best for: Solo travellers and couples who want a secure, budget-friendly ride to their hotel lobby or nearby.
• Price: Significantly cheaper than a taxi, typically ranging from €10–15 per person.
• Why choose it: You get the comfort of a pre-arranged transfer for a fraction of the cost.
• How it works: This service (often operated by top-rated partners like miniBUD) groups you with other travellers heading to the same district.

1. Locate the Desk: Specific instructions will be on your hoppa voucher, but typically you will head to the shuttle desk located inside the Baggage Claim area or just outside in the Arrivals Hall.
2. Check-In: Show your hoppa booking QR code to the staff. They will scan it and give you a printed receipt with a queue number.
3. Wait for Your Number: Watch the monitors in the waiting area. When your number appears on the screen, proceed to the exit doors.
4. Boarding: Staff will direct you to the correct minibus parked curbside.

miniBUD is the airport's official shared shuttle partner. It operates a fleet of modern minibuses that transport passengers to specific zones across Budapest.

• Best for: Last-minute arrivals who haven't booked in advance.
• Cost: Starts around 6,000 – 8,000 HUF (~$16–22 / €15–20) per person. Discounts are sometimes available for round-trips or small groups.
• Pros: It is cheaper than a private taxi for solo travellers and drops you directly at your hotel door.
• Cons: You may have to wait up to 30+ minutes for the van to fill up with passengers going to your specific area. Travel time can also be longer if you are the last drop-off on the route.
• How to book: You can book online before you fly or walk up to the miniBUD kiosk located in the baggage claim area upon arrival.

If you are looking for the absolute cheapest way to get to the city centre or have a Budapest Travel Card, this combo route is your best choice. Unlike the 100E Express, this option is included in standard travel passes.

• Cost: 900 HUF total (Two single tickets at 450 HUF each) OR free with a Budapest Travel Card/Pass.
• Route: Bus 200E (Airport to Kőbánya-Kispest) → Transfer to Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) → Deák Ferenc tér (City Centre).
• Travel time: 50–60 minutes.
• Service update: The renovation of Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) is fully complete. Trains are running smoothly along the entire line with no replacement buses needed.

1. Find the bus: Exit the terminal and go to the BKK bus stop (between Terminals 2A and 2B). Look for Bus 200E.
2. Validate ticket 1: Validate your first single ticket (or scan your pass) onboard the bus.
3. Ride to terminus: Take the bus to the final stop, Kőbánya-Kispest (approx. 20–25 mins).
4. Transfer to Metro: Walk from the bus drop-off point into the metro station (follow the "M3" signs).
5. Validate ticket 2: Validate your second single ticket at the metro entrance turnstiles (travel passes just need to be shown/scanned if requested).
6. Ride to the city: Take the Metro Line 3 towards Újpest-központ and get off at Deák Ferenc tér or your nearest stop in the centre.

For the ultra-budget-conscious or train enthusiasts, connecting to the rail network via the S50 Train is the "hidden" option. While technically possible, there is no train station inside the airport terminals, so you must take a bus first.

• Best for: Train enthusiasts, those on an ultra-low budget, or travellers staying specifically next to Nyugati Railway Station.
• Total price: ~950 HUF (~€2.50).
  ➡ Breakdown: Bus ticket (450 HUF) + Train ticket (~500 HUF).
• Verdict: This is the cheapest option, but requires a transfer and carrying luggage up/down stairs at the train station. For most tourists, the 100E bus is much simpler and takes you closer to the main tourist areas.

1. Find Bus 200E: Exit the arrivals hall and go to the BKK bus stop located between Terminals 2A and 2B (same stop as the 100E). Board Bus 200E.
2. Ride 10 Mins: Get off at the stop named "Ferihegy vasútállomás" (Ferihegy Train Station). This is a short 5–10 minute ride.
3. Cross the bridge: Use the pedestrian overpass bridge to cross the highway and reach the train platform.
   ➡ Note: You will need to carry your luggage up the stairs.
4. Buy a ticket: Use the ticket machine on the platform to buy a ticket to Nyugati pályaudvar (Western Railway Station).
5. Board the train: Catch the S50 train to the city centre.

Did you know that hoppa isn't just for airport transfers? You can also book international train tickets directly through us to continue your journey across Central Europe.

If you are planning to visit neighbouring countries after your stay in Budapest, you can easily book RegioJet train tickets from Budapest Déli, Budapest Kelenföld, or Budapest Keleti stations to top destinations in Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and also within Hungary.

Simply search for your route in the hoppa app or on our website. Enter your departure station (e.g., Budapest Kelenföld) and your destination to compare prices and secure your seat on a high-speed RegioJet train. It’s the perfect way to turn a city break into a multi-country adventure!

Now that your transfer is sorted, it is time to build your itinerary. Whatever your plan may be – visiting for the history, the thermal baths, or a romantic escape, we have guides to help you make the most of your trip.

• Looking for inspiration? Discover the best attractions, ruin bars, and hidden gems in our complete guide on Things to Do in Budapest.
• Planning a romantic break? From sunset cruises to charming cafes, read our top recommendations for Things to Do in Budapest for Couples.