Options and Tips for Getting to the City
If you are planning a trip to Budapest, it’s important to know the airports near the city and the best options to get into town. In this article we offer a complete guide to the airports close to Budapest, how to travel from them and the services available to make your arrival as comfortable as possible.
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport
The main airport for reaching Budapest is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD). This airport is located about 16 kilometers from central Budapest and is the most convenient for most visitors. It offers direct flights from many European cities and some farther international destinations.
Ferenc Liszt Airport has several options to reach the city centre, including:
- Public Buses: Buses 100E and 200E connect the airport with central Budapest and the main metro stations. To learn more about getting around the city once you arrive, we recommend our article on Public Transport in Budapest.
- Taxis and Ridesharing Services: You can also choose a taxi or a ridesharing service like Bolt, which is quite popular in Budapest. Read more about these options on our Taxis and Ridesharing page.
Other Nearby Airports
Although Ferenc Liszt Airport is the closest and most convenient, there are other international airports that can serve as alternative options to reach Budapest:
- Vienna Airport (VIE): Vienna International Airport is about 2 hours and 30 minutes by train from Budapest. It’s a good alternative if you find cheaper flights or better schedules. In addition, the route between Vienna and Budapest is very convenient and offers beautiful landscapes. You can consult our guide on the Train from Other European Cities for more details.
- Bratislava Airport (BTS): Bratislava Airport is also a viable option, especially if you plan to visit other nearby cities before arriving in Budapest. From Bratislava you can take a train that takes approximately 2 hours.
How to Get to Downtown Budapest from the Airport
There are several ways to reach downtown Budapest from Ferenc Liszt Airport:
- Shuttle Service: Many companies offer private airport transfers. This is a comfortable option, especially if you travel with a lot of luggage or in a group.
- Car Rental: If you prefer more independence, you can rent a car directly at the airport. For more information about car rental and getting around the city, visit our article on Car Rental in Budapest.
How to Reach Your Destination in Hungary from the Airport
If you arrive in Budapest via one of its nearby airports, it’s crucial to know the transport options to move around the country. We recommend reading our article on transport in Hungary, where you’ll find useful information on trains, buses and other means of transport that will make the journey from the airport to your final destination easier.
Tips for a Smooth Arrival
- Book Your Transport in Advance: If you choose a transfer service or car rental, it’s advisable to book in advance to avoid long waits at the airport.
- Currency Exchange: You will find exchange offices at the airport, although the rates may not be the best. We recommend exchanging a small amount to cover initial expenses and then looking for better options in the city. You can read more about exchanging money in Budapest in our article on Currency and Exchange.
Conclusion
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport is the most convenient option to reach Budapest, although you may also consider other nearby airports if it suits you for price or itinerary reasons. With multiple transport options, getting to central Budapest is easy and convenient. For more tips on planning your arrival and making the most of your stay, don’t forget to visit our Tips for Traveling to Budapest page.
We recommend reading our article on transport in Hungary, where you’ll find useful information on trains, buses and other means of transport that will make the journey from the airport to your final destination easier.
