Uber in Budapest: Everything you need to know

If you’re planning a trip to Budapest and wondering, “Does Uber work in Budapest?” you’ve come to the right place. Our guide covers everything you need to know about using Uber Budapest, including how locals get around the city, and alternative transport options to help you get to and from the airport, around the city, and beyond.

Is there Uber in Budapest?

Yes, Uber is available in Budapest. However, it doesn’t operate in the way you may be accustomed to. In 2016, the Hungarian government sided with traditional taxi companies, forcing Uber Budapest to cease its operations in the country. In early 2024, Uber operations returned, this time in partnership with the local taxi company, Főtaxi.

This means that whenever you book a ride through the Uber app, you will be booking a local metered taxi rather than the typical Uber services you may be used to. You can book two types of taxis: a regular sedan taxi that seats up to 4 people or a Taxi XL, which can accommodate up to 6 passengers.

How much is Uber in Budapest?

Since Uber pricing in Budapest is calculated similarly to regular taxi fares, prices are no cheaper than those of a taxi from the street or designated ranks. The cost of each fare depends on how long the trip takes and the exact distance to your destination, with extra fees for tolls and surcharges added on top.

Nevertheless, the app still has its benefits. Passengers can share their location in real-time with friends and family and follow their journey on the in-app map. Taxis can be booked easily and in advance, with an estimated fare displayed prior to booking.

For an Uber taxi from Budapest Airport to the city center, expect to pay around €28 (HUF 11,479), regardless of whether you book a regular or XL 6-seater taxi. For shorter rides within the city, a 5 km trip costs about €10 (HUF 4,027).

*Prices may surge during peak periods.

Alternatives to taking an Uber in Budapest

From the airport

A pre-booked private transfer is the most convenient Budapest Uber alternative when traveling to and from the airport. When you pre-book your Budapest Airport taxi with a trusted company such as Welcome Pickups.

You’ll be offered a competitive set fare, guaranteed on-time pickups with flight monitoring, and best of all, a professional English-speaking driver will greet you on arrival to take you directly to your destination.

Főtaxi is the official taxi company of Budapest Airport. Travelers can book a ride from the booths located in front of Terminal 2A and 2B, adjacent to each taxi rank. The government sets fares across Budapest, and these fares are calculated using a taximeter, which means the final price varies for each trip.

Booking an Uber taxi from Budapest Airport is still possible, although the price likely won’t differ from airport taxis since the app links to the same taxi company. The only difference is the pick-up location since Uber drivers may request that you walk to a spot further from the terminal. Similarly, another ride-sharing app, Bolt, offers the same services as local taxis.

For travelers on a budget who don’t mind using public transport, the 100E Airport Express bus line (a regular shuttle bus service) runs to Deák Ferenc tér metro station in the city center.

*Don’t accept a ride from drivers approaching you inside the terminal as they are likely unlicensed. Only arrange a taxi from the official airport booths or from the designated ranks.

Getting around Budapest

Other than using Uber Budapest to book a taxi, Budapest taxis can also be hailed from the street, picked up from designated ranks across the city, or booked over the phone.

Some well-known taxi ranks are outside Keleti Station, Heroes’ Square, and Buda Castle. Since local drivers don’t always speak English, it’s good practice to check that the meter is in use before setting off and that your driver understands where you need to go.

Alternatively, Budapest has a sprawling public transport network of buses, trams, and metro trains, making getting around the city easy. That said, the weather in Budapest can often be unforgiving, in which case a private transfer can provide an easy-to-use and reliable option for touring all of Budapest’s hotspots. Available 24/7, trips can be booked in under 60 seconds, and a driver will pick you up at a time and place that works for you.

Is Uber safe in Budapest?

Regardless of whether you book a taxi through Uber Budapest or use a more traditional method, it’s important to stay on your toes throughout your ride. While most drivers are professional and trustworthy, there have been instances where drivers cancel the ride through the app and charge a higher-than-estimated price upon arrival, often in cash.

Although Uber is used differently in Budapest, card payments are still accepted through the app, and for added peace of mind, rides can still be shared with friends and family.

Standard taxis may attempt to take advantage of tourists by turning off the meter, taking a longer route than necessary, and claiming that the card machine is out of order. To keep safe, always confirm that the meter is working and agree on a route before setting off. Take down the driver’s details, such as the name and registration number, for extra precaution.

Uber, Taxi, or Private Transfer?

When choosing the best option, you should consider your specific needs or those of your group. Below, we’ve gathered some of the most important factors to consider so that you can make an informed choice.