Budapest public transport: everything you need to know about tickets, routes and the BudapestGO app – a 2025 guide
Budapest public transport is one of the most efficient and affordable systems in Central Europe, offering visitors and locals a fast and convenient way to move around the city. Whether you’re planning a short holiday or staying for a longer period, understanding how public transport works, which tickets you need and where to find up-to-date information can help you make the most of your stay. Operated mainly by BKK (Budapesti Közlekedési Központ), the system includes metro lines, trams, buses, trolleybuses, suburban railways (HÉV) and night services. With the BudapestGO app, navigating the capital has become easier than ever.
Contents of the article
Budapest public transport: A well-connected network across the city
Budapest’s transport network is designed for quick travel between major attractions, business centres and residential districts. The four metro lines form the backbone of the system:
- M1 (the historic Millennium Underground, colloquially known as Kisföldalatti) connects the city centre with Heroes’ Square and City Park.
- M2 runs east–west, linking Déli Railway Station with Örs vezér Square.
- M3, the busiest line, crosses the city north to south.
- M4 provides a modern connection between Kelenföld and Keleti Railway Station.
Alongside the metro, passengers can rely on Europe’s iconic yellow trams. Lines 4 and 6 run 24/7 along Grand Boulevard, while tram 2 offers one of the most scenic rides in the world, following the Danube with views of the Parliament and Buda Castle. Buses and trolleybuses cover areas without rail services, ensuring that nearly every corner of Budapest remains accessible via public transport.
Budapest public transport tickets and passes: what you need to travel
Using Budapest public transport requires a valid ticket or travel pass. Single tickets remain the most common option for short stays, but visitors should note that these must be validated at the start of the journey. For travellers planning multiple trips, BKK offers a range of convenient passes, including 24-hour, 72-hour and weekly options. These allow unlimited travel across the entire public network.
Transfers between lines require special attention: a single ticket is valid for one continuous ride without breaks, whereas transfer tickets or passes are needed when switching between metro, tram and bus lines. Paper tickets can be purchased at BKK ticket machines, major metro stations and selected newsagents.
BudapestGO: easy planning and digital tickets
The BudapestGO app has transformed how passengers navigate the city. Available in English, it offers real-time route planning, service alerts, digital tickets and detailed travel information. Visitors can buy and validate their tickets directly through the app, eliminating the need to use paper tickets or validation machines. For tourists, the Budapest24 and Budapest72 digital passes are particularly useful, simplifying unlimited travel with just a few taps.
BudapestGO also displays live departure times, replacement bus updates during maintenance works and accessibility details for passengers with limited mobility. As BKK continues to modernise its services, the app has become an essential tool for anyone relying on Budapest public transport.
Useful information for visitors
Travelling in Budapest is generally safe, reliable and cost-efficient. Peak hours (typically 7:00–9:00 and 16:00–18:00) can be crowded, especially on the M3 metro line and trams along the Grand Boulevard. Night buses operate throughout the evening, ensuring that passengers can still move around after midnight.
For airport arrivals, the direct 100E bus connects Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport with the city centre. The service requires a special airport ticket, which is also available via BudapestGO.
BKK’s official website and the app remain the most accurate sources for up-to-date information, including planned maintenance, timetable changes and travel tips.
A practical way to discover the city
Whether you are here to explore historic districts, visit museums or simply enjoy the everyday rhythm of local life, Budapest public transport offers an affordable and easy way to discover the Hungarian capital. With a wide choice of tickets, a well-organised public network and digital support from BudapestGO, navigating the city has never been more convenient.
