Budapest Airport Transportation
All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides since 1999.
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is located about 16 km southeast of Budapest city centre, making it relatively easy to reach by public transport, taxi, or private transfer. Most travellers choose the airport bus services, which are affordable and frequent, while taxis and private transfers are ideal for comfort, late arrivals, or travellers carrying heavy luggage.
Below you will find a detailed overview of the main transport options from Budapest Airport, including buses, shuttles, taxis, rideshare apps, train connections, car rental, and private transport.
Budapest can be very busy during rush hours. If you are travelling on weekdays between 07:00–09:00 or 16:30–19:00, always add extra time for traffic.
Budapest Airport Bus Services
Public buses are one of the most convenient and budget-friendly ways to travel between Budapest Airport and the city. Bus stops are located directly outside the Arrivals area at Terminal 2, clearly signposted.
Budapest Airport is served mainly by two key routes: 200E and 100E.
200E Bus Route (Airport – Metro Connection)
The 200E bus line operates day and night, connecting Budapest Airport Terminal 2 with Nagyvárad tér Metro Station (and other key stops). This route is especially useful if you want to continue your journey by metro (M3 line).
It is a very popular choice among travellers because it is cheap and reliable.
Route information
- Route: Terminal 2 ↔ Nagyvárad tér Metro Station
- Frequency: Regular departures throughout the day
- Service: Day & night service available
Fare
- HUF 350 (standard public transport ticket)
*Always check the updated fare before travel.
If you plan to use metro + bus, consider buying a travel pass (24h / 72h) which can be cheaper than single tickets if you use transport often.
100E Airport Express Bus (Direct to Downtown)
The 100E Airport Express is the fastest and easiest public transport option to reach central Budapest. It runs directly from Budapest Airport to Deák Ferenc tér, one of the main transport hubs in the city centre.
Unlike the 200E, this is a dedicated airport bus with fewer stops and a more direct route.
Route information
- Route: Airport Terminal 2 ↔ Deák Ferenc tér (city centre)
- Stops:
- On the way to the city: limited stops
- On the way to the airport: it only stops at Kálvin tér
- Frequency: Approximately every 30 minutes
Schedule
- Operates 24 hours a day
- Timings vary depending on the time of day
Fare
- HUF 900 (special airport express ticket)
*Always check the updated fare before travel.
The 100E is ideal if your accommodation is near Deák tér, Astoria or central Pest. If you stay outside the centre, 200E + metro may be more efficient.
During peak tourism seasons, 100E buses can get crowded. If possible, avoid travelling at midday and early evening.
Where to catch the buses
- Buses depart from outside the Arrivals area (Terminal 2)
- Follow signs for Public Transport / Buses
Have some Hungarian forints available or use a card if ticket machines are busy. Buying tickets before boarding saves time.
MiniBUD Shuttle Services
MiniBUD offers shared shuttle transport between Budapest Airport and many destinations in the city, including hotels and private addresses. This option is useful if you want a compromise between bus and taxi.
Key features
- Shared shuttle service (door-to-door possible)
- Suitable for solo travellers or small groups
- Pricing depends on distance and number of passengers
More information and booking options are available on the MiniBUD website.
MiniBUD is often convenient for groups of 3–4 people, where the price per person can be competitive compared to taxis.
Budapest Airport Taxi
Taking a taxi is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Budapest city centre, especially if you arrive late at night, travel with children, or carry large luggage.
The journey usually takes around 35 minutes, depending on traffic.
Location
- Taxi stands are located immediately outside the terminal exits
Official taxi company
- Főtaxi is the official taxi provider at Budapest Airport.
- Reservations can be made at Főtaxi booths located at the exits of Terminal 2A and Terminal 2B.
Fares
- Typical fare to Budapest city centre: around HUF 10,800 (€28)
- Credit card payments are accepted
*Fares may change depending on traffic and official pricing updates.
Avoid unofficial taxi drivers offering rides inside the terminal. Always use the official taxi queue or the Főtaxi desk.
If you are travelling to Buda (hilly side of the city), the fare may be slightly higher due to longer distance and traffic.
Rideshare (Bolt)
Bolt operates in Budapest and is available at Budapest Airport.
To use it, you must download the Bolt app on your smartphone and request a car through the application.
Why use Bolt?
- Transparent pricing in the app
- Convenient cashless payment
- Good alternative to standard taxis
If there is high demand (late-night arrivals or bad weather), Bolt prices can surge. In those moments, the official taxi fare may actually be more stable.
Private Transfers (Pre-booked Transport)
For travellers looking for maximum comfort and reliability, private transfers are a strong option. Many companies operate at the airport offering pre-booked services.
This is especially recommended for:
- Business travellers
- Families with children
- Travellers arriving late at night
- Large groups
- Passengers with heavy luggage
Benefits of private transfers
- Driver meets you in the arrivals hall (often with a sign)
- Fixed price agreed in advance
- No waiting in taxi queues
- Suitable for minivans and group vehicles
If you are travelling during holidays or major events in Budapest, booking a private transfer in advance is highly recommended.
Budapest Airport Train (Rail Connection)
Budapest Airport does not have a direct train station connected to Terminal 2. However, travellers can use the railway system by reaching the nearest station, Ferihegy Train Station, and continuing by train from there.
This option is useful for travellers heading to other Hungarian cities or connecting to long-distance routes.
Important note
Passengers must take additional transport to reach the train station.
Eurail Tip
Non-European travellers may use an Eurail Hungary Pass to board trains across the Hungarian rail system.
How to reach Ferihegy Train Station
By bus (recommended)
The easiest method is to use Bus 200E.
200E route details
- Service hours: 04:00 am – 11:00 pm
- Route: Terminal 2 ↔ Kőbánya-Kispest Metro Terminal (M3)
- Stops include access to Ferihegy Railway Station
If you want to reach central Budapest after that:
- Take Metro line M3 towards Újpest Központ
The train option is not always the fastest way to reach the city centre. It is mainly useful if your final destination is outside central Budapest.
By taxi
Another option is taking a taxi from Terminal 2 to Ferihegy Train Station.
Unless you have a tight train connection, using a taxi just to reach the station is usually not cost-effective compared to the 200E bus.
Car Rental
Car rental is available at Budapest Airport through major international and local companies. Rental desks can be found inside the terminal arrivals area.
Renting a car is most useful if:
- You plan to travel outside Budapest (Balaton, countryside, neighbouring countries)
- You prefer flexibility and independence
- You are staying in rural areas
Driving in Budapest city centre can be stressful due to traffic, parking restrictions and limited parking spaces. Car rental is usually best for onward travel rather than city sightseeing.
Private Transport (Arrivals / Pick-up by Car)
If you are arriving at Budapest Airport and someone is picking you up, or you are driving yourself, the airport has clearly marked areas for private vehicles.
How private pick-up works
- Follow signs for Pick-up / Parking / Kiss & Ride
- Short-term parking is available near Terminal 2
Avoid stopping illegally outside the terminal entrance. Airport police enforce stopping restrictions, especially during peak hours.
Leaving the airport by private car
Budapest Airport is connected to the city via major roads, with clear signage leading towards:
- Budapest city centre
- Motorways for travel across Hungary
If using GPS, set the destination as Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport Terminal 2 to avoid being routed to closed areas or cargo zones.
Final Traveller Tips
- For the cheapest option: Bus 200E
- For the simplest city centre option: Bus 100E (Airport Express)
- For comfort and speed: Taxi or private transfer
- For onward travel outside Budapest: Train connection via Ferihegy Station or car rental
- For late-night arrivals: Taxi, Bolt or private transfer are usually the most practical