Getting around Hungary
Europe
From Europe ✈️
Direct flight from Paris
Yes
Duration
2h15 direct
Indicative round-trip price
50-180 EUR A/R
Book
1-3 months ahead
Recommended airlines
Local transport
Bus
Volánbusz covers the whole country, useful where the train doesn't go (~10 € for 120-150 km).
Train
MÁV-START links Budapest to Debrecen, Szeged, Pécs and Eger. Decent and cheap, but slow on some lines.
Taxi
Yellow metered taxis (regulated fare). Always order via Bolt or Főtaxi, never hail one in the street.
Metro
Budapest has 4 metro lines, plus a vast network of trams and buses. Single ticket ~450 HUF, 24h pass ~2500 HUF.
Essential apps
Common routes and indicative prices
| From | To | Mode | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budapest | Vienna | Train (Railjet) | 2h40 | 20-40 EUR |
| Budapest | Eger | MÁV train | 2h | 8-12 EUR |
| Budapest | Lake Balaton (Siófok) | MÁV train | 1h30 | 6-10 EUR |
| Budapest | Pécs | MÁV train | 3h | 12-18 EUR |
Indicative prices for 2025-2026. Fares vary by season, demand and how far ahead you book.
Vehicle rental 🛵
Scooter / Motorbike
20-35 EUR / day
Category A or AM licence
Car
20-40 EUR / day
French licence accepted
International permit : Not required (French license accepted)
Transport scams to know ⚠️
Fake taxis at airports/stations
Unofficial drivers with rigged meters who inflate the ride.
Tip :Book via the Bolt app or the official Főtaxi rank.
Pickpockets on trains
Thefts reported on the Budapest-Vienna-Prague international trains and in the crowded metro.
Tip :Keep your belongings in front of you and your bag closed.
Practical tips
- Buy Budapest transport tickets via the BudapestGO app, frequent checks and steep fines.
- An electronic vignette (matrica) is mandatory on the motorways when driving.
- Book MÁV tickets online in advance for the best fares.
Other transport guides
Europe
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