The main international gateway is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD). For rail travel, Budapest relies on three major train stations: Keleti (Eastern), Nyugati (Western), and Déli (Southern), with Kelenföld also serving as a key hub. International bus services primarily operate from Népliget Bus Station.
By Air:
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD):: This is the primary airport for flights to and from Budapest, serving a wide range of airlines, including low-cost carriers and major international airlines from Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Asia.
From the Airport to City Centre::
Airport Express Bus (100E):: This dedicated express service runs frequently (every 7-10 minutes during the day) directly to central locations like Deák Ferenc Square, Kálvin Square, and Astoria. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes and a single ticket costs HUF 2,200 (around €6-7). This special ticket is required, as standard public transport passes are not valid on the 100E bus.
Taxi/Rideshare (Bolt):: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. A trip to the city center typically takes 30-35 minutes and costs approximately HUF 6,500-8,000 (around €18-25). Using ride-sharing apps like Bolt is recommended for clear pricing.
Shared Minibus (MiniBUD):: The official airport shuttle provides a convenient door-to-door service, with fares around HUF 2,700 per person to the city center.
By Train:
Budapest is well-integrated into the European rail network. Most international trains typically arrive at and depart from Keleti Railway Station.
Important Note for 2025:: Keleti Railway Station will be fully closed for engineering works from August 25 to September 20, 2025. During this period, international and long-distance trains will be diverted to other stations, primarily Budapest-Kelenföld and Nyugati. Travelers should check their routes for updated timetables and potential transfer points.
Common Routes & Costs (indicative)::
Vienna:: Railjet and EuroCity trains connect Budapest and Vienna in approximately 2 hours 21 minutes to 2 hours 40 minutes, with tickets starting from around €9.44 when booked in advance.
Prague:: EuroCity trains offer connections in about 7 hours 20 minutes (with one change) or direct services. Tickets can start from approximately €19.90-€21.
Bratislava:: Tickets can start from around €10.50 for advance bookings.
Split (Croatia):: An overnight Adria InterCity train operates seasonally (June to September), with couchette options starting from €39.
By Bus:
International bus services are a cost-effective option for reaching Budapest from various European cities. Népliget Bus Station is the main terminal for these services and is accessible via the M3 metro line.
Major Operators:: Companies like Flixbus, Regiojet, Eurolines, and Volánbusz serve Budapest.
Common Routes & Travel Times (indicative)::
Bratislava:: As little as 2 hours 15 minutes, with tickets from approximately €13.98.
Vienna:: Around 3 hours.
Prague:: Around 7.5 hours.
Munich:: Around 10 hours.
Prishtina:: Approximately 10 hours, with tickets around €40.
By Boat:
During the summer months (June to September), hydrofoil services operate on the Danube River, connecting Budapest with cities like Vienna and Bratislava. These boats typically dock in the city center.
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