Verified Facts
To get around in Hungary, you can choose from a variety of transportation options, including flights, trains, buses, and taxis, as well as renting a car or using ride-hailing services, with the country's well-developed infrastructure making it easy to travel both within and outside of the capital city of Budapest.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Hungary is easily accessible by air, with Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) being the main entry point for most visitors. The airport is located about 16 kilometers southeast of the city center and offers direct flights to many European destinations, as well as some intercontinental connections. If you're traveling from outside of Europe, you may need to connect through a major hub such as Amsterdam, London, or Frankfurt. In addition to flying, Hungary can also be reached by car, bus, or train from its neighboring countries, including Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia.
For those traveling by land, there are several overland entry points, including border crossings with Austria, Slovakia, and Romania, among others. The most popular routes include the M1 highway from Austria and Slovakia, the M3 highway from Ukraine and Romania, and the M5 highway from Serbia and Croatia. Many bus companies, such as FlixBus and Eurolines, also operate international routes to and from Hungary, connecting the country to major cities across Europe.
Domestic Flights
While Hungary's domestic air network is limited, there are a few airlines that offer flights within the country. The main domestic airline is Malév, although it has significantly reduced its operations in recent years. Other airlines, such as Wizz Air and Ryanair, may also offer some domestic flights, although these are often limited to specific routes and seasons. If you do need to fly within Hungary, it's a good idea to book in advance, as prices can be high and availability may be limited. Approximate costs for domestic flights can range from $50 to $200 or more, depending on the route and time of year.
Trains & Rail
Hungary has an extensive rail network, with MÁV (Magyar Államvasutak) being the main train operator. The country is well-connected to its neighboring countries, with frequent trains to cities such as Vienna, Bratislava, and Zagreb. Within Hungary, there are also many domestic routes, including trains to major cities like Debrecen, Szeged, and Pécs. The rail network is generally of good quality, with comfortable and reliable trains, although some routes may be slower than others. High-speed trains are available on some routes, such as the InterCity trains, which can reach speeds of up to 160 kilometers per hour. Booking trains in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, and can be done online or at train stations.
Buses & Coaches
In addition to trains, Hungary also has a well-developed bus network, with many companies operating intercity routes. Some of the main bus companies include Volánbusz and FlixBus, which offer frequent connections to cities across the country. The bus network is often more extensive than the rail network, with buses reaching many smaller towns and villages. Prices for bus travel are generally lower than for trains, although travel times may be longer. The quality of buses can vary, although many companies offer comfortable and modern vehicles with amenities like air conditioning and Wi-Fi.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Budapest, Debrecen | $1.50 | Four metro lines in Budapest, one in Debrecen |
| City Bus | Most cities | $1-$2 | Frequent services, although quality can vary |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $1.50-$2.50/km | Be sure to use a licensed taxi to avoid scams |
| Ride-Hailing | Budapest, other major cities | $5-$10 | Bolt and Uber are popular options |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | Not available | - | Not a common mode of transport in Hungary |
Driving
- To drive in Hungary, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country, as well as car insurance that covers you in Hungary.
- Road conditions in Hungary are generally good, although some rural roads may be in poorer condition.
- Fuel costs are relatively high in Hungary, with gasoline prices averaging around $1.50 per liter.
- Car rental companies like Europcar and Hertz are available at airports and in major cities, although prices may be higher than in other European countries.
- When driving in Hungary, be aware of the country's toll roads, which require a special vignette (sticker) to be purchased.
- Be sure to follow local traffic rules and regulations, including speed limits and parking restrictions, to avoid fines or other penalties.
Transport Tips
- When using taxis, always make sure to use a licensed taxi to avoid scams, and be sure to agree on the fare before you start your journey.
- For public transportation, consider purchasing a Budapest Card, which offers unlimited travel on buses, trams, and metro lines, as well as discounts on attractions and services.
- To avoid pickpocketing or other petty crimes, be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like train stations and tourist hotspots.
- Download the BKK Futár app for real-time information on public transportation in Budapest, including bus and metro schedules.
- When driving, be aware of Hungary's zero-tolerance policy for drunk driving, and never drink and drive.
- Consider purchasing a Hungarian SIM card or portable Wi-Fi hotspot for data access and navigation during your trip.
- Be sure to validate your train ticket before boarding, as fines can be steep for unvalidated tickets.
- Learn some basic Hungarian phrases, such as "hello" (szia) and "thank you" (köszönöm), to help you navigate and interact with locals during your trip.