Budapest Airport to city in 2025: quick, clear ways to get downtown

First time in Budapest. You land at Ferenc Liszt International Airport and want a simple plan to reach the center. Here it is.

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How long does it take

The ride to the center is usually 30 to 45 minutes. It depends on traffic and your exact address. Late evening is faster, rush hour is slower.

Your options at a glance

• Taxi or prebooked transfer. Door to door. Good with bags or kids. Fixed pickup. Regulated fares in Budapest.
• 100E Airport Express. Direct to the center. Card payment on board. Works day and night.
• 200E bus + M3 metro. Connects to the metro at Kőbánya-Kispest. Useful at peak times.
• Train via Ferihegy. Handy if your hotel is near Nyugati station. One short bus hop, then the train.

100E Airport Express

Simple and fast. The 100E runs between the airport and Deák Ferenc tér. It also stops at Kálvin tér and Astoria in the center.

• Runs every day, around the clock.
• Buy and validate on board with a bank card.
• Best if you travel light. Not door to door.

200E bus to the metro

The 200E links the terminals with Kőbánya-Kispest. From there you switch to the M3 metro. It is a good value choice.

• Clear signage at arrivals. Bus stops sit between the two terminals.
• Works well if your hotel sits near an M3 stop.

Taxi and prebooked transfer

The official airport partner has desks at Terminals 2A and 2B. Cars queue at the ranks outside. Fares are regulated by decree in the city.

• Door to door, no stairs or crowds.
• Card payment is standard.
• Travel time to the center is often 30 to 40 minutes.

If you want a named driver and a fixed class of car, book a private transfer. You can also compare cars and reserve with Kiwitaxi.

Pick what fits your trip

• Short weekend. Book a taxi or transfer. You save time at night.
• Solo with a backpack. Take the 100E to Deák Ferenc tér. Walk or ride one stop more.
• Family with luggage. A prebooked car is easier. Child seats on request.
• Rush hour arrival. 200E plus M3 may be more predictable.

Quick tips for a smooth arrival

• Follow the official signs to buses and taxi ranks. Ignore unsolicited offers in the hall.
• Check the stop name before you get off. Deák Ferenc tér is the main hub.
• Keep your bank card handy for the 100E. It works on the bus.
• Share your taxi plate and ETA with your host. It is a simple safety habit.

Enjoy the first look at the city

Pest gives you lively streets and easy metro access. Buda is hilly and calm. Pick what matches your mood, and welcome to Budapest.

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