Planning to Spend your Layover at Budapest Airport?

Perhaps Budapest International Airport isn’t your final destination. So, you are going to spend some time at the airport until your next flight. Layovers can be tiring and frustrating, especially when they last longer than expected. However, a stopover at Budapest Airport doesn’t have to be boring. Whether you have just a couple of hours or a long layover, BUD Airport facilities — and even the city itself — offer plenty of ways to make the most of your time.

Things to Do at Budapest Airport

If you have a few hours before your next flight, now is the perfect moment to explore Terminal 2 and the SkyCourt area. Below are some ideas to keep you entertained.

Go on a Shopping Spree

Budapest Airport may not be huge, but its shopping options are carefully selected. Fashion brands, local products, souvenirs, and duty-free stores are all located in the SkyCourt, the five-floor building connecting Terminal 2A and Terminal 2B.

Our Tip: Download the official Budapest Airport app to receive real-time updates, shopping offers, and exclusive discounts.

Are you Hungry?

Whether you are craving a quick snack, a proper meal, or just a drink, Budapest Airport has you covered. Italian, Greek, Spanish, Asian cuisines, as well as fast-food chains like Burger King and KFC, are available throughout the SkyCourt. Cafés and bars are also scattered around the terminal.

Budapest Airport has Amazing Views to Offer

The Terrace Café, located on the roof of Terminal 2A, offers comfortable seating, drinks, snacks, and panoramic views of the airport. It is the perfect spot to watch planes take off and land.

Our Tip 1: The observation area offers free Wi-Fi but no restrooms. As entry is single-use, visit the restroom before entering.

Our Tip 2: Smoking is prohibited inside the terminal, but allowed at the Terrace Café and designated outdoor smoking areas near T2A and T2B.

Let your Children Play

Traveling with kids? The enclosed children’s play area, located on the middle floor of the SkyCourt, is ideal for young travelers. It includes play equipment and tablets with child-friendly apps.

The kids’ zone operates daily from 05:00 am to 09:00 pm.

Cultivate Yourself

Budapest Airport also hosts exhibitions. The airport gallery is located in the corridor connecting Terminal 2A and Terminal 2B and regularly features temporary art collections.

Surf the Net

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Budapest Airport, including SkyCourt, Arrivals, Departures, and the Terrace. The free connection is limited to 4 hours, which is more than enough to check emails, work online, or stream content.

Pray or Calm Yourself

An ecumenical prayer room, also known as the Room of Silence, is located on the middle floor of Terminal 2B. It is ideal for prayer, meditation, or quiet moments.

Live an Airport Lounge Experience

Budapest Airport offers five airport lounges. Here, you can relax, enjoy food and drinks, use business facilities, and escape the crowds in a calm environment.

Sleep During your Layover

If you need rest, comfortable seating areas are available before passport control and throughout the SkyCourt. For maximum comfort, the Ibis Styles Budapest Airport Hotel, located next to the terminal, offers 145 modern rooms, a bar, and a restaurant.

Our Tip: There are no shower facilities inside the airport, including lounges. The airport hotel is the only option for shower access.

Do you Have Time? Get to Know Budapest!

If your layover is at least 7 hours, leaving the airport and visiting Budapest is highly recommended. The city center is easily accessible, and you can explore major attractions without rushing. Just make sure to return to the airport 1–1.5 hours before your next flight.

Book a Tour

If you want a quick overview of Budapest, booking a guided tour is a great option. Many tour operators offer city tours directly from the airport. Compare your options and choose the best value-for-money experience.

Pamper Yourself at Széchenyi Baths

One of the best ways to spend a long layover is visiting the famous Széchenyi Thermal Baths. With over 100 years of history, the baths offer thermal pools, saunas, massages, and relaxation areas.

Just Walk

Grab a coffee and explore Budapest on foot. Walk along the Danube, admire the Hungarian Parliament, cross the Chain Bridge, and visit the Shoes on the Danube memorial. A scenic walking route takes less than an hour.

Climb to Gellért Hill

For one of the best panoramic views of Budapest, head to Gellért Hill. The Citadella fortress and surrounding viewpoints offer stunning cityscapes and historical landmarks.

Get Lost at Gozsdu Udvar

Gozsdu Udvar is a lively complex of seven buildings connected by courtyards. Bars, restaurants, markets, and nightlife venues make it a perfect stop to experience Budapest like a local.