Photos: Budapest bids farewell to iconic Ikarus 412 buses with four-day capital tour

After more than 25 years of service, the Ikarus 412 buses are set to leave Budapest’s streets. Between the two holidays, the last two vehicles being retired will briefly return to their former routes for a day each, the BKV Zrt. announced on Friday.
Farewell to the iconic Ikarus 412
The company noted that when the Ikarus 412 entered service in 1999, it marked a milestone: it was the first widely procured low-floor bus in Budapest, significantly improving accessibility and passenger comfort. For 26 years, the type was a defining presence in the BKV bus fleet.

In recent years, thanks to the company’s acquisitions, more modern and advanced buses have joined the capital’s fleet. As a result, the 412s became increasingly rare in the city centre, and by late autumn, only two fully operational units remained in service. Now, the time has come for the type’s final retirement.
Ikarus 412 tour schedule
To mark the occasion, BKV is organising a four-day farewell tour over the holiday period. From 27 to 30 December, one of the 412s will appear on routes it previously served for a day each. The schedule is as follows:






