BUDAPEST TRANSPORTATION HUNGARY

BUDAPEST TRANSPORT

Budapest Transportation - With a low volume of traffic, car journeys are straightforward in Budapest. However, Public transportation is both economical and efficient. Trams, trolley buses and subways operate between 4:30 am and 11 pm. There is a good bus service and taxis are available throughout the city. Tickets are available from tobacco shops, subway stations and street vendors. Tickets need to be validated before use. Tourist passes of one, three or seven days are available. Tickets for transport are very very reasonable.

The Budapest Transport Authority (BKV) has published a free brochure in English which is available from hotel receptions and Tourinform offices, giving detailed information about the types of tickets and costs. You may be asked to show your ticket on all transport or at exit points of the metro by ticket inspectors. They wear armbands and have a badge with photograph. Public transport generally starts at around 4:30 am and runs until 11:30 pm.

Metro
There are three metro lines - each designated a different colour. V Deek ter is the station served by all three lines but there are several other changeover stations as well When you go into the station, often before you go down the escalator, you need to “validate” your ticket by putting it into the small machine and having it date stamped. The subway system in Budapest if a pleasure to use although it can be crowded at peak hours. Trains are regular and tend to run every four or five minutes. It is a help to know the end destination of the train you want to use as this will help you arrive at the right platform.

HEV suburban train
There is also the suburban train lines - called HEV. These go to outlying places and if you want to get out of the city this is an option you might consider.

Buses, Trams and Trolleys
These criss cross Budapest and whatever your destination and direction you’ll find one to suit you. A trip on a tram is a great tourist experience in that as well as getting you to your destination you will have a sightseeing trip on the way.

Taxi
Taxis are clearly indicated and have a meter. If you book a taxi by phone it is usually cheaper than one you catch on the street. Two tips, it’s as well to have both your destination and hotel name and address written down to show to the driver. If you are going a long trip it’s as well to get an idea of the price before you set out.

Car
It's easier and cheaper to arrange a rental before you arrive, maybe over the internet. The majority of rental cars in Budapest have manual rather than automatic transmission. You can also hire out cars with a driver.