Illuminated journeys: Explore Budapest’s festive light trams and buses!
As Budapest lights up for the festive season, BKV’s festive light vehicles offer a dazzling way to explore the city. From glowing trams to illuminated boats, these holiday-decorated transports have become a must-see attraction. Wondering where to find them? Here are the routes.
The light fleet has become a tradition
As Travelo writes, in Budapest, the enchanting tradition of the festive light tram began in December 2009 with the “Christmas tram” launch on lines 2 and 2A. Adorned with dazzling decorations, this service quickly became a beloved seasonal highlight, running during evening hours from 5 December to 6 January. By 2010, the service expanded to include tram 19, which traverses the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Danube embankment. The decorated tram on Line 2 even gained international acclaim, earning a spot in National Geographic’s “Travels of a Lifetime” list.
Over the years, Budapest’s festive light trams have evolved, spreading across various neighbourhoods and lines, including Lines 4-6 and 47-49. In 2015, a special tram was introduced solely for photography, delighting tourists with its glowing appeal but making no stops for passengers. The tradition experienced interruptions, particularly in 2019 due to the pandemic. However, by 2020, the number of illuminated vehicles increased, featuring creative touches such as a cogwheel railway train. In 2022, the spectacle was scaled back to just one Ganz UV tram, adorned with an interior QR code supporting a homeless shelter, underscoring a commitment to the community amid festive cheer.
Ride festive light trams this season
This year, the light tram route has been extended, and the much-loved festive train of the rack railway is back in service. On 2 December, BKV introduced six distinct types of Advent trams, spreading holiday cheer across the city. Light trams operate on the following lines:
The festive fleet operates on various lines to ensure almost every neighbourhood enjoys the glow of festive lights. Adding to the spectacle, BKV launched the Light Boat this year, offering magical Danube-side views dressed in sparkling illumination.
Santa bus
In addition to the trams and trains, a Santa Claus bus service has been introduced for the festive season, operating on Lines 105, 210, 130, 11, 99 and 198 until 23 December. Behind the scenes, nearly 100 BKV employees worked tirelessly to decorate the vehicles with over 5 kilometres of festive lights powered by 120,000 energy-efficient LEDs. Interiors were adorned with charming details, including 150 crocheted ornaments gifted by a passenger last year to celebrate Budapest’s 150th anniversary. This year’s festive light offerings promise a truly enchanting experience for residents and visitors alike.
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