Quick answer:
- Distance: Around 24 km between Budapest Airport and the city center
- Taxi: €28–€35 (HUF 11,000–13,000), around 35 minutes, 24/7.
- Private transfer: From €35 (HUF 12,792), around 35 minutes, with a meet-and-greet in Arrivals.
- Bus 100E Airport Express: €6.90 (HUF 2,500), around 40 minutes, 24/7, and direct to central Budapest.
- Bus 200E + train: Around €2.20 (HUF 800), around 50 minutes, with a change at Ferihegy Railway Station.
- No train or metro at BUD: You’ll need the 200E first if you want to connect with either.
- Late arrivals: The 100E and 200E run overnight, but trains don’t run 24/7.
- Good to know: “Ferihegy” can mean the airport’s old name or Ferihegy railway station, so check which one is meant.
To get from Budapest Airport to the city center, you can take a taxi, a private transfer, or the direct 100E Airport Express; the journey covers around 24 km. A BUD Airport taxi or transfer takes about 35 minutes and costs around €28–€35 (HUF 11,000–13,000) and €35 (HUF 12,792), respectively, while the 100E costs €6.90 (HUF 2,500) and reaches Deák Ferenc tér in about 40 minutes.
The 100E is the easiest public transport option, as it takes you straight into the center without a change. There’s no train or metro station at the airport, so if you’d rather use either, you’ll need to take the 200E first and connect along the way.
Deák Ferenc tér is in central Pest and one of Budapest’s main transport hubs, with several bus services and connections to the M1, M2, and M3 metro lines if you need to go elsewhere in the city.
4 transport options from Budapest Airport to the city center
OPTION | PRICE | TIME | AVAILABILITY | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Welcome Pickups Private Transfer | €35 | 35min | 24/7 | Convenience | Book | |
| Ideal for families and business travelers wanting a comfortable arrival experience. | ||||||
Taxi | €28 | 35min | 24/7 | Convenience | Book | |
| A good pick if you want to go straight to your hotel without booking ahead, especially with luggage or kids. | ||||||
Airport Express Bus | €13.80 | 40min | 24/7 | Convenience | Read more | |
| Best for solo travelers and couples staying near the 100E stops, as well as anyone who wants a direct public transport connection without changing buses or trains. | ||||||
Bus 200E + S50 Train | €4.40 | 50min | 04:30–00:00 | Convenience | Read more | |
| Makes most sense if you’re staying near Nyugati or carrying on by train. | ||||||
A taxi from Budapest Airport to the city center takes around 35 minutes and costs €28–€35 (HUF 11,000–13,000), with licensed taxis available 24 hours a day. You’ll be dropped straight at your hotel or address rather than having to connect with public transport.
Official Budapest taxis are easy to pick out, as they’re all yellow, with the taxi company name and fares shown on the car. At the airport, stick to the official Főtaxi stands outside Terminals 2A and 2B rather than taking a ride from someone who approaches you in the terminal.
Traffic can slow things down once you get closer to central Budapest, especially during the morning and afternoon commute, so give yourself a bit longer than 35 minutes around rush hour.
How much is a taxi from Budapest Airport to the city center?
The taxi fare from Budapest Airport to the city center depends on which side of the Danube you’re heading to. A taxi to the right bank of the Danube costs around €28 (HUF 11,000), compared with €35 (HUF 13,000) to the left bank.
There’s no fixed airport fare, so taxis use a meter, starting at €5.80 (HUF 2,100), then adding €1.40 (HUF 520) per kilometer and €0.35 (HUF 130) per minute. The same rates apply at night.
Before you get in, give the Főtaxi staff your exact address, and they’ll work out an estimated fare for your trip from Budapest Airport to the city center. And there’s no need to have Hungarian forints ready if you’d rather pay by card, as all Főtaxi vehicles have card machines.
Where do I get a taxi at Budapest Airport?
You’ll find the official stands on the arrivals level at the entrances to Terminals 2A and 2B. Once you’re out of arrivals, look for the Főtaxi-branded stand and tell the staff where you’re going. They’ll sort out your ride and point you to the taxi rank just in front, where cars are waiting.
Don’t accept offers from drivers approaching you inside the terminal. Budapest Airport recommends strictly using its contracted taxi service.
Is a taxi from Budapest Airport convenient?
A taxi works well if you’ve got a lot of luggage, young children, or a hotel away from the 100E stops, as you can travel straight to your address. And if you don’t fancy tackling public transport but also haven’t booked a transfer in advance, you can simply pick up a taxi when you land.
Traffic can bump up the fare too, as you’re charged for the time spent sitting in slow traffic as well as the distance you travel.
Useful Tips
Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi
Learn moreThe 100E Airport Express is the only direct bus from Budapest Airport to the city center, taking around 40 minutes. It leaves from Terminal 2, runs 24/7 and costs €6.90 (HUF 2,500), stopping at Kálvin tér and Astoria before reaching Deák Ferenc tér.
During the day, buses run every 10 minutes on average, then slow down to every 20 to 40 minutes overnight.
Where you get off will depend on where you’re staying. Astoria is handy for the Jewish Quarter, while Deák Ferenc tér puts you right in the center and within walking distance of the Chain Bridge area. From there, you can also connect with the metro to reach other districts.
You can also take the 200E, which runs around the clock. It’s useful if you’re heading for the M3 metro or want to catch a train from Ferihegy railway station, but you’ll need to change before you get into central Budapest.
How much is the bus from Budapest Airport to Budapest?
One-way tickets for the Budapest Airport Express Bus from Budapest Airport to the city center cost €5.55 (HUF 2200). The special tickets for the airport shuttle bus are valid only for the express service.
They can be purchased from the airport ticket booths, self-service machines, or the driver inside the bus. You can also pay via the BudapestGO mobile app or by using Pay&Go (scanning your bank card on the yellow machines aboard the bus).
Tickets for other buses (including bus 200E) and the metro cost €1.15 (HUF 450) and are valid for a one-way single trip. Otherwise, you can buy a “transfer ticket,” which offers an extra transfer to another mode of public transport for just €1.35 (HUF 530).
Buses 100E operates 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.
Where do I catch the 100E bus at Budapest Airport?
You can catch the 100E Airport Express just outside Terminal 2, a short walk from both Terminal 2A and 2B. Once you come out of arrivals, follow the signs for buses and public transport, and you’ll find the stops in front of the terminal.
In the city, the 100E stops at Kálvin tér and Deák Ferenc tér, with some services also stopping at Astoria.
How convenient is the 100E Airport Express?
The 100E is the easiest public transport option if you’re staying near Kálvin tér, Astoria, or Deák Ferenc tér, as you can get into central Budapest without changing. It also runs 24/7, which is useful if you’re landing late at night or early in the morning.
If your hotel is farther from the 100E stops, you’ll need to walk or make another public transport connection once you’re in the center.
Timetables
Budapest Airport Bus Information
Budapest Airport to city center
Useful Tips
There’s no train station at Budapest Airport, so getting into the city by rail means taking the 200E bus to Ferihegy railway station first. You can then continue by train to Budapest-Nyugati. The bus takes around 10 minutes, and the train to Nyugati takes around 30 minutes, bringing the total to roughly 50 minutes, including waiting time.
The 200E runs 24/7 between Terminal 2 and the city, stopping at Ferihegy along the way. Trains don’t run around the clock, though, so check your connection before setting off, especially if you land late.
Where do I catch the train from Budapest Airport?
There’s no train station at Budapest Airport, so hop on the 200E outside Terminal 2 and get off at Ferihegy railway station. The bus stops on the arrivals level between Terminals 2A and 2B. Follow the bus signs out of the building, and you’ll see the bus stops in front of you.
At Ferihegy, cross the pedestrian footbridge to reach the railway platforms, then check the departure board for the next train heading to Budapest-Nyugati. Several different services stop here, so check the destination before you get on.
Bus 200E operates 24/7, and the trains run from 04:30 until 00:00.
Where do I get the train from?
Bus 200E stops on the arrivals level between Terminals 2A and 2B. Follow the bus signs out of the building, and you’ll see the bus stops in front of you.
You’ll disembark the bus at “Ferihegy.” From there, you’ll need to walk across the pedestrian bridge to reach the station. You can then check the monitors for the next train to Budapest and head to the correct platform.
Is the train from Budapest Airport convenient?
The train makes the most sense if you’re staying near Nyugati railway station or continuing on by rail from Budapest. Otherwise, changing from the 200E to the train at Ferihegy adds an extra step when you could take the 100E straight into central Budapest.
Timetables
Bus 200E Timetable
Budapest Airport to Ferihegy
Useful Tips
A private transfer from Budapest Airport to the city center takes around 35 minutes, with pickups available day and night and prices starting from €35 (HUF 12,792). You book before you fly, and your driver tracks your flight, meets you inside arrivals, and takes you straight to your hotel or apartment.
When you book, add your flight number, destination, passenger numbers, and luggage. You can then choose the vehicle that fits your group, from a sedan to a minibus for up to 12 passengers.
And because everything is arranged before you land, you already know who’s picking you up, what you’ll pay, and what vehicle you’re traveling in.
How much is a private transfer from Budapest Airport to the city center?
A private transfer from Budapest Airport to the city starts from €35 (HUF 12,792) for 4 passengers. What you pay depends on which side of the Danube you’re staying on, the vehicle you book, and whether you’re traveling during the day or at night.
The price includes tolls, airport fees, and waiting time, with no hidden fees added later. You’ll see the full price before you book and pay online in advance.
Buda / right bank
Pest / left bank
Private transfers are available 24 hours a day from Budapest Airport.
Where will I meet my private transfer at Budapest Airport?
Your Welcome Pickups driver will be waiting for you inside arrivals at your terminal, with your name on a sign. You’ll get their name, photo, phone number, and vehicle details before you fly, so you know who you’re looking for when you come through.
They’ll give you a hand with your bags and walk you out to the car. And if you don’t see each other right away, you can message or call using WhatsApp or the Welcome Pickups app.
How convenient is a Budapest Airport private transfer?
A private transfer is a good fit if you’re traveling with kids, bringing plenty of luggage, or there’s a bigger group of you. You can sort out things like child seats and the right-sized vehicle before you fly, then go straight to your address when you land.
And for bigger groups, minivans take up to eight passengers and minibuses up to 12, so you can all travel together instead of splitting between cars.
Useful Tips
Sedan up to 4 passengers
€32Starting from 8 EUR / passenger
Minivan up to 8 passengers
€55Starting from 6.9 EUR / passenger
Minibus up to 12 passengers
€97Starting from 8.1 EUR / passenger
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from Budapest Airport to the city center?
You can get from Budapest Airport to the city center by taxi, private transfer, the 100E Airport Express, or the 200E bus and train combo. Taxis and private transfers take around 35 minutes, the 100E takes around 40 minutes, and the 200E and train journey takes roughly 50 minutes, including waiting time.
How much is the 100E bus from Budapest Airport to the city center?
The 100E Airport Express costs €6.90 (HUF 2,500) per person. Budapest-pass, Pest County Pass, and Hungary Pass holders can buy a €2.75 (HUF 1,000) add-on ticket, while travelers over 65 and under 14 with a Hungarian student ID travel for free.
Is the 100E bus cash only?
No, the 100E Airport Express isn’t cash only. You can buy your ticket through BudapestGO, from BKK ticket machines and customer service points, or onboard using Pay&GO, where you tap a bank card, phone, or watch to buy and validate your ticket.
How much is a taxi from Budapest Airport to the city center?
A taxi from Budapest Airport costs around €28 (HUF 11,000) to the right bank of the Danube and €35 (HUF 13,000) to the left bank. Taxis are metered, with a €5.80 (HUF 2,100) airport base fare followed by €1.40 (HUF 520) per kilometer and €0.35 (HUF 130) per minute.
Is there a train from Budapest Airport to the city center?
No, there’s no train station at Budapest Airport. Take the 200E from Terminal 2 to Ferihegy railway station, then change for a train to Budapest-Nyugati. The full journey takes around 50 minutes, including waiting time, and costs €2.20 (HUF 800) per person.
What is the cheapest way to get from Budapest Airport to the city center?
The 200E bus and train combo is the cheapest option, at around €2.20 (HUF 800) per person. This includes a €0.80 (HUF 300) 200E airport bus extension ticket to Ferihegy railway station and €1.40 (HUF 500) for the train to Budapest-Nyugati.
How do I get from Budapest Airport to the city center at night?
The 100E Airport Express, 200E bus, taxis, and private transfers are available overnight from Budapest Airport. The 100E runs 24/7 directly into central Budapest, while trains from Ferihegy don’t run throughout the night, so check the train timetable before relying on the 200E and train route.
Can I manage the 100E bus with large luggage?
Yes, you can take large luggage on the 100E Airport Express. The buses have dedicated luggage areas for suitcases, although space can be tighter on busy services, so larger bags should be placed in the luggage area rather than left in the aisle.
Which ticket do I need to get from the city center to Budapest Airport?
You need the dedicated €6.90 (HUF 2,500) airport shuttle bus single ticket to take the 100E from central Budapest to Budapest Airport. Regular €1.40 (HUF 500) BKK single tickets aren’t valid on the 100E.
Does the airport surcharge apply when traveling from the city to the airport?
Yes, the €2.20 (HUF 800) airport taxi surcharge applies in both directions. Introduced in August 2026, it’s built into the €5.80 (HUF 2,100) airport base fare for metered taxi trips both to and from Budapest Airport.
What is the best way to get from Budapest Airport to the city with a large group?
A private transfer is a good option for larger groups who want to travel together in one vehicle. Welcome Pickups offers minivans for up to eight passengers and minibuses for up to 12 at discounted prices.
Can I book one vehicle for more than eight passengers from Budapest Airport?
Yes, you can book one vehicle for up to 12 passengers from Budapest Airport. Welcome Pickups offers minibuses for groups of nine to 12, while groups larger than 12 need to book more than one vehicle.
How early should I leave the city center for my flight from Budapest Airport?
Allow at least 3 hours and 5 minutes before your flight when traveling by taxi or private transfer from central Budapest. Budapest Airport recommends arriving at least 2.5 hours before departure, and the drive from the city center takes around 35 minutes in normal traffic, so allow longer during busy traffic periods.
Justine Mellor
Justine is a content specialist and writer who started backpacking the world at 16 and has lived in three countries. With roots in the travel industry and a taste for the road less traveled, she seeks out places with soul—where the food’s loud, the music’s local, and the culture runs deep.
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