Should I Use Public Transportation When Visiting Budapest?

Budapest, the Hungarian capital city, has an excellent public transportation network, including three subway (metro) lines, an extensive system of 29 tram lines, 14 trolley lines, 180 bus routes and a suburban rail, called the "HÉV." It is well worth using public transport rather than taxis or cars when getting around Budapest, not just because of the extensive and efficient system available, but also because downtown Budapest is very congested throughout the day.

Despite recent rate hikes, using Budapest's public transit system remains relatively inexpensive. As of January 2007, a single ticket costs 230 Forints (approximately 0,60 GBP.) An unlimited day pass costs 1,350 Forints (approximately 3,50 GBP).

The three metro lines, in combination with above ground transport can take you to any destination in Budapest. The metro lines (red, blue and yellow) all converge in downtown Budapest at the Deák Tér station. The yellow line (M1) is the oldest and shortest line, running from Vörösmarty Square, near the popular Váci utca pedestrian mall, along Andrássy Boulevard until the City Park (Városliget.) The red line (M2) crosses underneath the River Danube over to the Buda side and connects to the Southern Railway Station (Déli Pályaudvar). The blue line (M3) runs along the Pest side and is the longest metro line. It connects two suburbs of Budapest, namely Újpest and Köbánya-Kispest, and provides easy access to buses that run to the Ferihegy Airport.

The Budapest Transport Corporation (BKV) is presently constructing the green metro line (M4) and completion is expected in 2009.