Overview
Transfer Options
Tip
Luggage Storage
Public Transit
Senior Travel
Free travel for passengers aged 65+ is restricted to EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens. Others must purchase tickets.
Official Taxi
Official Budapest taxis are bright yellow with yellow license plates. They use fixed rates: a base fare of 1,100 HUF plus 440 HUF per km.
Avoid 'Hyenas'
Ignore drivers offering rides inside the terminal or station halls. These are unlicensed “hyenas” who often overcharge.
Rideshare
ATMs and Currency
Avoid Euronet
Avoid blue/yellow Euronet ATMs. Use bank-affiliated ATMs like OTP, UniCredit, Raiffeisen, or Erste Bank. Always select “Decline Conversion” to let your home bank handle the rate.
Best ATMs at Hubs
- BUD: OTP Bank ATMs are located in both terminals.
- Keleti: OTP Bank branch/ATM in the underpass.
- Nyugati: Erste Bank or OTP ATMs near the main entrance.
Accessibility & Safety
Accessibility
M4 Metro Line
The M4 (Green) metro line (accessible from Keleti) is the most modern and fully barrier-free line in the city. Avoid the M2 line if you struggle with steep escalators, as several older stations lack elevators.
Safety
Budapest is generally safe, but be vigilant against these common transit scams:
- The ‘Official’ Imposter (Taxi Hyenas): Ignore individuals inside the arrival halls holding “Taxi” signs. These are unlicensed drivers who significantly overcharge. Head to official kiosks (Főtaxi) or use app-based rideshares.
- The ‘Money Police’ Scam: Be wary of plain-clothes individuals posing as “currency police” asking to inspect your wallet. Real police are always in uniform and will never handle your cash on the street.
Essential Services
Lost & Found
First Aid & Pharmacies
Emergencies
In the event of a serious medical emergency at any hub, dial 112 for an ambulance.
Overview
Transfer Options
Tip
Luggage Storage
Public Transit
Senior Travel
Free travel for passengers aged 65+ is restricted to EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens. Others must purchase tickets.
Accessibility & Safety
Accessibility
M4 Metro Line
The M4 (Green) metro line (accessible from Keleti) is the most modern and fully barrier-free line in the city. Avoid the M2 line if you struggle with steep escalators, as several older stations lack elevators.
Safety
Budapest is generally safe, but be vigilant against these common transit scams:
- The ‘Official’ Imposter (Taxi Hyenas): Ignore individuals inside the arrival halls holding “Taxi” signs. These are unlicensed drivers who significantly overcharge. Head to official kiosks (Főtaxi) or use app-based rideshares.
- The ‘Money Police’ Scam: Be wary of plain-clothes individuals posing as “currency police” asking to inspect your wallet. Real police are always in uniform and will never handle your cash on the street.
Essential Services
Lost & Found
First Aid & Pharmacies
Emergencies
In the event of a serious medical emergency at any hub, dial 112 for an ambulance.