The Best Ways to Get from Budapest Airport to the City Center

So, you’ve touched down in Budapest, and you’re ready to immerse yourself in the city’s unique blend of historic charm and all the paprika-laden dishes your heart desires. But first things first—how do you actually get from Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (airport code BUD) into the city center? From budget-savvy options to convenient door-to-door rides, here’s the full rundown on how to get from Budapest Airport to downtown.

The 6 Best Ways to Get from Budapest Airport to the City

When you land at Budapest Airport’s Terminal 2 (all international flights arrive here), you’ll find the layout simple and well-marked with signage in both Hungarian and English. Once you’re in the arrivals area, there’s an array of transport options just outside the terminal. But not all choices are equal when it comes to time, cost, or comfort. Here’s everything you need to know about each way to get from Budapest airport to downtown Budapest.

1. Taxis from Budapest Airport to City Center: Fast and Convenient

If you’re eager to make it to the city as quickly and comfortably as possible, a Budapest airport taxi is a solid choice. Taxis take around 25–30 minutes in normal traffic to get from the airport to the city center, and the meter-based fares are transparent, meaning no surprises at the end.

How to Get a Taxi from Budapest Airport to City Center

To avoid overcharging or scam attempts, head straight to the official Főtaxi booth located just outside the arrivals hall. Főtaxi is the only authorized airport taxi service, and at the booth, you’ll get a ticket listing your car number, estimated fare, and driver’s info—everything you need to feel confident about your ride.

Fare and Payment

• Cost: Average fares run around 15,000 HUF (about €35), though this varies based on your exact destination and traffic conditions.
• Payment Options: Főtaxi accepts both cash (Hungarian Forint) and card payments.

Pro tip: Do not accept rides from drivers waiting in the arrivals hall. Licensed taxis are found only at the Főtaxi booth.

2. 100E Airport Express Bus: Direct, Convenient, and Cost-Effective

For travelers on a budget who still want a direct ride to the city center, the 100E Airport Express Bus is a great option. This dedicated Budapest airport bus heads directly from the airport to Deák Ferenc tér, with just two stops (Kálvin tér and Astoria) en route.

How to Find and Board the 100E

• Location: After baggage claim, exit Terminal 2 and look to the right for “Public Bus 100E” signs. The stop is easy to spot, with ticket machines and helpful staff nearby.
• Ticket Purchase: The easiest way to pay is by tapping your contactless credit card upon boarding. Alternatively, purchase a ticket via the BudapestGO app or from machines at the airport. Tickets bought through the app must be validated by scanning the QR code near the bus doors or inside near the driver’s window.

Ticket Cost and Details

• Cost: 2,200 HUF (about €5) for a one-way ticket.
• Luggage Note: The 100E is a large city bus but lacks designated luggage racks, so keep a firm hold on any bags at stop lights to avoid losing your wheeled suitcase down the bus aisle (ask me how I know).
• Pro tip: During the day the buses run every 6-10 minutes. If a bus is full and you can spare an extra 5-ish minutes, wait for the next one to come so you don’t have to stand the whole ride.

Schedule and Frequency

• Daytime Frequency: Every 6–10 minutes on Mondays and Fridays, and every 7–10 minutes on other weekdays and weekends.
• Night Service: Runs every 30–40 minutes, making it a reliable option any time of day or night.

The 100E’s direct route and affordability make it a fantastic option if you’re staying near one of its stops. On my last trip to Budapest, my hotel was a 3 minute walk from Kálvin tér, so this was a fantastic option for me.

3. 200E Bus + Metro Line M3: Flexible and Ultra-Affordable

For those venturing beyond the city center—or if you’re up for a bit of public transport exploration—the 200E bus plus the M3 metro line provides a wallet-friendly alternative. The 200E Budapest airport bus takes you from the airport to Kőbánya-Kispest metro station, where you can hop on the M3 (blue line) straight into Budapest’s center.

How to Use the 200E and M3

• 200E Bus Location: The 200E bus stop is also right outside Terminal 2, clearly marked with signs.
• Tickets: You can buy tickets at machines in the arrivals area or via the BudapestGO app. Standard ticket prices apply, but if you’re transferring, a 90-minute timed ticket (750 HUF) covers both the bus and metro.

Ticket Options and Pricing

• Single Ticket: 450 HUF (about €1) per ride.
• 90-Minute Ticket: 750 HUF (allows unlimited transfers within 90 minutes).
• Metro Cost: Included if you’re using a 90-minute ticket; otherwise, it’s 450 HUF for each leg.

Schedule

The 200E bus runs frequently from early morning until late at night, while the M3 metro runs from 4:30 a.m. to midnight.

The 200E + M3 combo lets you try Budapest’s public transit without breaking the bank and is great if you’re staying near an M3 metro stop.

4. Shared Shuttle Transfers: Comfortable and Cost-Effective Door-to-Door Service

If you want a convenient ride without the taxi price tag, shared airport shuttles like miniBUD offer a good middle ground. Shuttles provide door-to-door service and can be pre-booked online here, making them ideal if you’re traveling with lots of luggage or a group.

Booking and Pricing

• Booking: The easiest way to book a miniBUD shuttle is in advance online, though a kiosk is also available near the baggage claim area.
• Cost: Prices are typically around €12 per person, depending on your destination.

Why Choose a Shuttle?

• Great for Groups: Shuttle transfers like miniBUD are convenient for group travel and offer a lower cost per person when sharing.
• Booking Flexibility: Book ahead online for peace of mind, knowing your ride is set before you step outside.

Shuttle services provide a balance of convenience and affordability, ideal if you prefer the security of a pre-arranged transfer.

5. Private Transfers: Quick, Comfortable, and Personalized

For those who prefer the most convenient stress-free ride from Budapest Airport to the city center, private transfers are an excellent alternative to taxis. Offering direct, door-to-door service, private transfers can be booked in advance, ensuring a driver will be waiting for you at arrival—ideal for travelers with tight schedules or anyone seeking a (usually) seamless airport transfer experience.

Why Choose a Private Transfer?

• Reliability: Private transfers are pre-booked, so there’s no need to wait in line or search for transportation.
• Comfort and Privacy: Enjoy a spacious vehicle reserved just for you and your group, with no additional stops.
• Fixed Pricing: Most private transfers offer transparent, upfront pricing, so you know the total cost before you arrive. Here is a highly rated option.

Cost and Booking

• Cost: Typically starts around €30–€40, depending on the distance to your destination and the level of service.
• Booking: Arrange your transfer online before your trip for the most convenience. Look for companies with reputable reviews and fixed rates for the best experience.

Private transfers are a great option if you’re looking for a hassle-free, comfortable start to your stay in Budapest—great for small groups, families, or travelers with lots of luggage.

6. Bus + Hungarian Railways Train: A Local Adventure

For rail enthusiasts, there’s also the option of taking a train from Budapest Airport to the city center—but it requires a few steps. First, take the 200E bus from the airport to Ferihegy Train Station, then catch a Hungarian Railways train to Nyugati (Western) Railway Station.

How It Works

• 200E Bus: From the airport, take the 200E bus to Ferihegy Train Station (a quick 10-minute ride).
• Hungarian Railways: Board a train headed to Nyugati Station. From Nyugati, you can continue by metro or tram to reach your final destination.

Costs and Travel Time

• Cost: 450 HUF for the bus and 400 HUF for the train, totaling 850 HUF (about €2).
• Travel Time: Roughly 50 minutes total, depending on the wait times for the bus and train connections.

While it’s not the most straightforward route, this option lets you dive into local rail transportation from the start.

FAQs

How Much Does It Cost to Get From Budapest Airport to City Center?

Costs vary based on the transportation type. The 100E airport bus is around 2,200 HUF (€5), taxis cost approximately 15,000 HUF (€35), and the 200E bus plus M3 metro combo costs about 900 HUF (€2).

What Are the Best Transfers From Budapest Airport to City Center?

The best transfer depends on your preferences! Taxis are the fastest but pricier; the 100E airport bus is direct and affordable, while the 200E bus + M3 metro combo is a great budget option. Shuttles like miniBUD offer door-to-door service at a mid-range price.

Can I Take an Uber From Budapest Airport to the City?

While Uber (and Bolt) do operate in Budapest, they are not traditional rideshares; instead, the cars are official taxis which charge the meter rate, so it’s generally best to head to the taxi line at the airport.

How Long Is the Train From Budapest Airport to the City?

Unfortunately there is no train directly from the Budapest airport. Taking the 200E bus to Ferihegy Train Station, followed by a train to Nyugati Station, takes about 50 minutes in total, though this is probably the least straightforward airport transportation option for first time visitors.

How Far Is Budapest Airport From the City?

Budapest Airport (BUD) is about 16 kilometers (10 miles) southeast of the city center.

What’s the Fastest Way to Get From Budapest Airport to Downtown?

A private transfer is quickest, with taxis close behind.

Can I Use Euros to Pay for Transportation at the Airport?

Hungary uses the Forint (HUF), and while some taxis may take Euros, it’s best to have Forints or a credit card.

How Much Time Should I Plan for the Trip From Budapest Airport to the City Center?

Taxis or private transfers take about 30–40 minutes, while buses or public transport options can take 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic. On my last trip to Budapest, I took the 100E bus to its first stop (Kálvin tér) around 3:00 PM on a Wednesday and it took 45 minutes.

Are Taxis Safe at Budapest Airport?

Yes, just be sure to use the official taxis through the Főtaxi stand outside arrivals.

Can I Use Standard Public Transport Tickets on the 100E Airport Bus?

No, the 100E requires a special airport ticket, which you can purchase from the ticket machines at the airport or on the BudapestGO app.

What’s the Cheapest Way to Get to the City Center From Budapest Airport?

The cheapest options are the 200E bus and train combo at 850 HUF, or the 200E bus plus metro option at 900 HUF (both are about €2). The latter option will be easier to navigate.

Which Budapest Airport Transportation Option Should You Choose?

• Best for Convenience: Taxis or private transfer
• Best for Speed: Private transfer, with taxis close behind
• Best if You Have a Lot of Luggage: Taxis or shuttle services
• Best for Budget: Airport express 100E bus or 200E + Metro Line M3
• Best for Door-to-Door: Private transfer, taxis or shuttle services like miniBUD
• Best for Rail Fans: Train + 200E Bus combo

With plenty of options for every budget and preference, getting from Budapest Airport to the city center is straightforward and easy to manage.

What’s your favorite way to get from the airport to the city? Have any tips to share? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!