How to reach Budapest’s famous sights: a public transport guide

Tram 2, Budapest. Photo: Facebook, BKK

Although the main sights of Budapest can be reached by foot, public transport in the city is excellent, too. Read our article to get some useful tips on how to reach Budapest’s famous sights!

Buda Castle: bus

Probably the most popular attraction of Budapest, the Buda Castle can be found in 1st district. The Budapest bus number 16 runs between Széll Kálmán Square and Deák Ferenc Square through the Buda Castle District. Depending on the person’s location, one can get on the bus on Széll Kálmán Square or Deák Ferenc Square. In addition, travelling between the two squares is also easy, as they are on the same metro line. Metro line M2 (red) operates between Déli Railway Station and Örs Vezér Square. Although there are several stops within the Castle District, it is recommended to get off at Szentháromság Square. Just a few steps away, the majestic Matthias Church emerges.

However, due to the renovation of the Chain Bridge:

Bus 16 takes a shortened route between Széll Kálmán square (Ostrom sreet) and Clark Ádám square, it does not touch the stops between Clark Ádám square and Deák Ferenc square. From the castle, the city centre can be reached via Széll Kálmán tér.

Castle bus 16. Photo: Facebook, BKK

Heroes’ Square: subway

Budapest’s iconic square is a beloved tourist attraction. In order to get there, using the metro is the easiest and quickest. Metro line 1 (yellow) runs between Vörösmarty Square and Mexikói Street and stops at Heroes’ Square. Fun fact: metro line 1 is the oldest metro in continental Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Metro line 1, Budapest. Photo: Facebook, BKK

Heroes’ Square, Budapest. Photo: pixabay.com

Budapest inner city: tram

So far, we had a look at buses and metros, but trams are even more common in Budapest. In fact, 602 trams are available for Hungarians and tourists every day. If one wants to discover the inner city, tram 2 is the perfect choice. It does not only provide a useful ride, but also offers the most scenic route, as it takes you along the Pest embankment. The 47 and 49 trams operate on Kiskörút (Small Boulevard) to Deák Ferenc Square.

Until July 17, tram 2 is replaced by buses:

Note, that trams 2 and 2M will not run between June 20 and July 17 due to renovations. Instead, replacement buses will run between Közvágóhíd and Kossuth Lajos square.

Tram 2, Budapest. Photo: Facebook, BKK

How to get to the railway stations?

Almost all railway stations can be reached by using the metro. Firstly, line 2 (red) goes from Örs Vezér Square to Déli Railway Station. Secondly, line 3 (blue) runs between Újpest-Központ and Kőbánya-Kispest Railway Station. Reaching both Kelenföld and Keleti Railway Station is possible by getting on line 4 (green), which is the newest metro line. Last but not least, Nyugati Railway Station lies on the route of the most popular tram lines 4 and 6.

Budapest Keleti Railway Station. Photo: pixabay.com

Budapest Airport

With the majority of tourists arriving by plane, public transport to and from Budapest Airport is crucial. Luckily, the 100E airport bus offers a direct link to the city centre. Running from the airport to Kálvin Square and Deák Ferenc Square, the ride takes 40 minutes. However, taking the taxi might be a good option, too. Taxis are quite affordable and comfortable. Fares/km are about 400 HUF (1 EUR).