Budapest Airport Guide

Find your Whereabouts at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport

General Airport Information

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport is the main aviation gateway to the Hungarian capital. Officially named after the famous composer Franz Liszt and commonly referred to as Budapest Airport or Ferihegy Airport, it is located approximately 24 km / 14.9 miles southeast of Budapest city center, in the Ferihegy area. Under normal traffic conditions, the journey to downtown Budapest takes around 30–35 minutes.

BUD Airport is Hungary’s largest and busiest airport and serves as the primary hub for international and domestic air travel. Despite operating with a reduced terminal footprint compared to the past, the airport connects Budapest with destinations across Europe, the Middle East, North America, and parts of Asia and Africa.

After a period of decline following the bankruptcy of Malév Hungarian Airlines and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Budapest Airport has fully recovered. In 2024, more than 17.5 million passengers traveled through BUD Airport, confirming its role as one of Central Europe’s most important aviation hubs.

Terminals

Budapest Airport currently operates as a single-terminal airport for passenger traffic. Terminal 2 is the only active terminal and is divided into two sections: Terminal 2A and Terminal 2B. These two areas are seamlessly connected via the SkyCourt, a modern central hall that hosts the majority of the airport’s restaurants, shops, lounges, and passenger services.

Terminal 2A primarily serves Schengen flights, while Terminal 2B handles non-Schengen and intercontinental routes. Terminal 1, which previously served low-cost airlines, remains closed but there are plans for its reopening and for the construction of a future third terminal as passenger numbers continue to rise.

Hotels

Passengers traveling through Budapest Airport have several accommodation options to choose from. A number of hotels are located close to the airport, making them ideal for early departures, late arrivals, long layovers, or business travel.

Budapest city center also offers an extensive selection of accommodation, ranging from luxury hotels and boutique properties to affordable hostels and guesthouses. Thanks to reliable transport connections between the airport and downtown Budapest, staying in the city is often just as convenient as staying near the airport.

Parking

Budapest Airport provides a variety of parking facilities designed to meet different passenger needs. Whether you are looking for short-term parking for pickups and drop-offs or long-term parking for extended trips, BUD Airport offers several well-organized parking options.

Parking areas are located close to Terminal 2, with premium and terminal parking options within walking distance. More economical long-stay parking lots are also available slightly further away, with easy access to the terminal area.

Layover at the Airport

Layovers at Budapest Airport can be comfortable and productive. The airport offers a wide range of services and amenities, including dining options, duty-free shopping, lounges, free Wi-Fi, and relaxation areas, ensuring a pleasant stopover experience.

Additionally, Budapest city center is easily accessible from the airport. Passengers with a layover of 5–6 hours or more can consider leaving the airport to explore the city’s landmarks, thermal baths, cafés, and historic districts before returning in time for their onward flight.