Transportation from Budapest Airport to the City Center

Transit Options from Budapest Airport to City Center

Passengers arriving at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) have several transfer options to reach the city center. Whether you prioritize comfort, independence, or affordability, Budapest Airport offers solutions to match every travel style.

Airport taxis and private transfers provide fast and convenient door-to-door rides, car rentals ensure full autonomy, while public buses and train connections are ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Available Transfer Options

Option	Price (HUF)	Price (€)	Price ($)	Duration
Taxi	10800 HUF	27.48€	30.46$	35 minutes
Direct Bus (100E)	2200 HUF	5.60€	6.21$	45 minutes
Bus 200E + Metro	900 HUF	2.29€	2.54$	45–55 minutes
Bus + Train	950 HUF	2.42€	2.68$	35 minutes

Budapest Airport to City Center by Taxi

Official taxi transfers from Budapest Airport are handled exclusively by Főtaxi, the city’s oldest taxi company, operating since 1913. Official airport taxis are yellow, feature a “TAXI” sign on the roof, and display a “Főtaxi” logo on the front door.

Taxis queue at the official taxi ranks outside the Arrivals area of Terminal 2A and 2B. Always use official taxis and avoid private individuals offering rides inside the terminal, as overcharging is common.

The journey to Budapest city center takes around 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Budapest airport taxis are metered, and the average fare to downtown is approximately 10800 HUF (27.48€ / 30.46$). The fare does not vary by time of day.

Payments in Hungarian forints are recommended, as exchange rates for euro payments are usually unfavorable.

For travelers seeking fixed pricing and premium service, private airport taxi providers such as Welcome Pickups offer English-speaking drivers, prepaid fares, flight monitoring, and 24/7 customer support.

Budapest Airport to City Center by Bus

Budapest Airport is served by two main public bus lines: the direct airport shuttle 100E and the regular Bus 200E.

Bus 100E – Direct Airport Shuttle

Bus 100E is a direct connection between the airport and Deák Ferenc tér, located in the heart of Budapest. The bus operates 24/7, departing every 10–15 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night.

Travel time is approximately 45 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The fare is 2200 HUF (5.60€ / 6.21$). Only the dedicated airport shuttle ticket is valid on this line and must be validated upon boarding.

Tickets can be purchased from airport ticket machines, ticket booths, onboard the bus, or via the BKK mobile app.

Bus 200E + Metro

Bus 200E operates 24/7 and connects the airport with Kőbánya-Kispest station. The bus ride takes around 25 minutes.

From Kőbánya-Kispest, passengers can take Metro Line M3 to reach the city center in approximately 17 minutes. During late-night hours, the bus terminates at Határ út, where night buses provide onward connections.

The total cost for the bus and metro combination is 900 HUF (2.29€ / 2.54$). Budapest travelcards and passes are also valid for this route.

Tip: The official miniBUD shuttle service is also available. It is more cost-effective for groups than solo travelers and takes around 40 minutes to reach the city center.

Budapest Airport to City Center by Train

There is no direct train connection from Budapest Airport. However, travelers can take Bus 200E to Ferihegy Train Station, located about 12 minutes from the terminal.

From Ferihegy Station, frequent trains run to Nyugati Railway Station, close to the city center. The train journey lasts 22–25 minutes.

The combined cost for the bus and train is approximately 950 HUF (2.42€ / 2.68$). Train tickets can be purchased online or at Ferihegy Station.

Car Rental from Budapest Airport to City Center

Budapest Airport hosts numerous international and local car rental companies, making car hire a flexible option for travelers who prefer independence.

Driving to the city center takes around 35 minutes. The route typically follows Ferihegyi Repülőtérre vezető út and Üllői út toward central Budapest.

Private Airport Transfers from Budapest Airport

Private airport transfers offer the most relaxed way to reach Budapest city center. Drivers meet passengers at Arrivals, assist with luggage, and provide door-to-door service.

Depending on the provider, additional amenities such as fixed pricing, flight monitoring, child seats, and multilingual drivers may be included.

FAQ

How far is Budapest from the airport?

Budapest International Airport lies 24km/14.9 miles, southeast of the city center. Thus, a transfer with a taxi or a car rental to downtown lasts about 35 minutes, while a journey with the direct Bus 100E takes 45 minutes to reach Deák Ferenc tér.

How much is a taxi from Budapest Airport to city center?

A Budapest airport taxi will take you to your destination in the city center in about 35 minutes. The taxi tariff isn’t set but depends on the taximeter’s indication. In general terms, you should expect to pay 10800HUF (27.48€/30.46$) for your ride to Budapest downtown.

How do I get from Budapest Airport to city centre?

Budapest airport taxis and private transfers are the most comfortable way to reach the city center. Alternatively, you can use the direct Bus 100E leaving the T2 bus stop and heading to Deák Ferenc tér, or the 24/7 Bus Line 200E that reaches Kobanya-Kispest Station. From that station, the Blue Metro Line M3 can take you to the city center. Finally, BUD airport trains are not an option. However, you can take the Bus 200E to the nearby Ferihegy Station and change to one of the numerous trains going to the Nyugati Station.