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Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is roughly 21 kilometers (or 23 miles) from Budapest city center. To reach the center, you have several options, including a dedicated express bus, a combination of local bus and metro, and the official taxi services. Whether you’re looking for the most affordable option or a comfortable private transfer, we put together all your options to reach the city from the airport, including tips on where to store your luggage in Budapest.
Arriving before check-in? Book luggage storage and delivery
If you want to make the most of your time before check-in without having to drag a suitcase through the metro or bus, use LUGGit. A Keeper will meet you at the airport to collect your bags and deliver them to your hotel or Airbnb at check-in time.
Use code BLOG10 for 10% off your booking
100E Direct Airport Express Bus
The 100E Airport Express is the most popular option, with a 24/7 direct link between Terminal 2 and Deák Ferenc tér, the city's central transportation hubs. You can catch it on the arrivals level, between the two terminals. The trip takes around 40 minutes.
- Timing: The bus runs every 6-15 minutes during the day and every 30-40 minutes at night.
- Stops: It makes only three stops in the city center: Kálvin tér, Astoria (only at night/early morning), and Deák Ferenc tér.
- Tickets: A special "Airport shuttle bus single ticket" is required (2,500 HUF, or around 6.60€). Purchase it via the BudapestGO app or using a contactless card on the bus. Regular single tickets or the Budapest Card are not valid here.
200E Bus + Metro Line M3
The 200E bus and M3 Metro is the cheapest way to reach the city, especially if you already have a Budapest Card or a 24-hour travel pass, which cover this route for free. Take the 200E bus from the airport to Kőbánya-Kispest station, then transfer to the blue M3 metro line towards Újpest-központ.
- Timing: The 200E bus runs 24/7, but the M3 Metro stops around 23:30. If you land late at night, the bus will connect you to night buses (914 or 950) instead of the metro.
- Tickets: Buy a 90-minute ticket on the BudapestGO app for 850 HUF (2.20€), which covers both the bus and the metro. If you prefer paper tickets, you need two single tickets (one for the bus, one for the metro) for a total of 1,000 HUF (2.60€). Buying from the driver is more expensive, so use the purple machines or the app instead.
Tip: This route involves stairs and transfers. If you want to avoid carrying heavy bags through the metro, use LUGGit to have your luggage delivered to your hotel or Airbnb.
Official Taxi Services and Ride-Hailing (Bolt/Uber)
The official taxi provider for Budapest Airport is Főtaxi. Their kiosk is located right outside the arrivals exits. A typical fare to the city center ranges from 11,000 to 16,000 HUF (€28-€40), depending on traffic and your specific destination.
To book a taxi, you can visit the Főtaxi kiosk in the arrivals area, tell them your destination, and they’ll give you a voucher with a price estimate and your taxi number. Alternatively, you can book in advance by calling or booking through the website.
If you prefer ride-hailing apps, Bolt is the most popular in Hungary. Uber also re-entered Budapest in 2024 and operates via a partnership with Főtaxi. Both apps offer transparent pricing and are convenient for pre-booking.
Private Transfers
If you prefer a pre-arranged "Meet and Greet", where someone will wait for you on the arrivals floor, you can book a private transfer service like Welcome Pickups. Private transfers are more expensive (starting at €35+) but offer the highest level of comfort, usually including flight tracking and help with your luggage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Budapest Card on the 100E Airport Express?
No, the 100E bus requires a specific "Airport Shuttle Bus Single Ticket" (2,500 HUF). The Budapest Card is valid for the 200E bus and the M3 Metro route, as well as all other trams, buses, and metro lines in the city.
Is it safe to take a taxi from the street?
It is highly recommended to avoid hailing taxis from the street, as they may overcharge. Always use the official Főtaxi booth at the airport or a reputable app like Bolt or Uber to ensure you pay a fair rate.
Does Budapest Airport have a metro?
No, there is no metro station at Budapest Airport. To reach the metro, you can take the 200E bus to the Kőbánya-Kispest station, which connects to Line M3 (Blue Line), or take the 100E Express bus to the Deák Ferenc tér metro hub, where three lines (M1, M2, M3) meet.
How do I find my LUGGit Keeper at Budapest Airport?
After you book LUGGit, you’ll be sent a confirmation via email and WhatsApp with the designated meeting point in the arrivals hall. Your Keeper will be easily identifiable by their orange vest.
Travel Light in Budapest with LUGGit
Traveling from Budapest Airport to the city center is simple when you know your options. And with LUGGit, you can hand off your bags at the airport and head straight to a café in the Jewish Quarter or for a walk along the Danube, allowing you to experience Budapest the way it was meant to be - stress-free.
Use code BLOG10 for 10% off your booking
