Budapest just made public transport a whole lot friendlier for dog owners and cyclists

The Budapest General Assembly has recently approved a forward-thinking proposal from Dávid Vitézy that will allow free transport of both dogs and bicycles on BKK (Budapest’s Public Transport) services for passengers holding a valid season pass, starting January 2025. This exciting new policy means that any passenger with a monthly, quarterly, or annual Budapest pass—or even a Pest county or national pass—will soon be able to bring their dog or bike along without needing an extra ticket.

At present, transporting dogs on BKK requires a separate ticket or pass, and bicycles are restricted to specific routes, mainly in hilly, mountainous areas. According to Pénzcentrum, these routes are popular among cyclists who may need occasional transport due to unexpected events—such as a flat tire, an electric bike’s battery running out, a sudden rainstorm, or plain exhaustion after a long day. The current system, however, can be inconvenient, requiring passengers to make a stop just to purchase an additional ticket, which complicates travel plans.

Photo: FB/BKK

The new free transport policy

Budapest’s residents increasingly embrace a more active and eco-conscious lifestyle, relying on cycling and public transportation as part of their daily routines. For dog owners and cyclists alike, this change signifies a major step forward, removing a common financial and logistical barrier. For instance, dog owners commuting to the city’s parks or cyclists navigating hilly areas can now enjoy greater flexibility and savings. The policy not only supports urban mobility but also encourages greener travel choices, a crucial aspect of Budapest’s broader sustainability goals.

Source: Pixabay

The new free transport rule aims to make life easier and travel more affordable for Budapest residents who regularly rely on public transportation. By eliminating the need for separate dog and bike tickets, the measure could encourage even more residents to opt for season passes, promoting public transport over individual car use. Additionally, Vitézy noted that the streamlined boarding process—since passengers will not need to scan codes twice on buses that require front-door boarding—could lead to faster, smoother operations, benefiting everyone on board.

Future plans

Dávid Vitézy has outlined plans to expand bicycle transport access on BKK’s network further, making more routes bike-friendly in the future. This would be especially useful in Budapest’s hilly districts, where many cyclists take advantage of the downhill ride but may struggle with the uphill return journey. Increasing bike transport options on BKK’s network will enhance accessibility and convenience for passengers in these areas, further cementing public transport as a viable option for cyclists.

The new regulation promises to make BKK services more accessible, accommodating the needs of pet owners and cyclists while promoting public transportation as a sustainable and affordable option. By making it simpler and more cost-effective to bring pets or bikes along for the ride, Budapest is taking a meaningful step towards creating a more livable and environmentally friendly city for everyone.

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