Budapest is a large city, and most must-see sites are not within walking distance of each other. As such, travelers must rely on either public transportation or rent a vehicle to get around the city. Fortunately, Budapest has a reliable transit system of trams, buses, and metros so the latter option is not necessary.
Budapest has 4 metro lines: M1 (yellow), M2 (red), M3 (blue), and M4 (green). During my time in Budapest, I relied on the M1 as the Opera Station was about a block from my hotel. The M1 runs the length of Andrassy Ut, on the Pest side of the city, and conveniently has stations near several must-see sites. The stations are also within walking distance of bus and tram stops.
Two things I noticed about the M1 were its punctuality and cleanliness. The trains were always on schedule, and both the stations and trains were really clean. I rode the metro 10 times, and each one was a positive experience.
Budapest’s M1 has been operating since 1896 and is considered to be the oldest metro line in continental Europe. Each station is ornately decorated with tiled walls, mosaic nameplates, and woodwork. This metro line is the shortest and only one not to cross into Buda.
Given the historic nature of Metro Line 1, stations are not accessible. To reach the train, one must climb a set of stairs.
Along with the metro, Budapest has a considerable number of bus and tram lines that traverse the city, including buses that run to the airport. I noticed the buses and trams were generally on schedule during the morning hours but not so much in the afternoon. While none of the delays were significant, it helps to keep this fact in mind while planning your public transportation journey.
A pass is required to ride the metro, bus, or tram, and these passes are available for purchase at several locations or digitally via the BudapestGO app. I highly recommend that visitors buy either the 24-hour or 72-hour Budapest Travel Card. My tour provided us with a 72-hour Budapest Travel card and I used it 17 times during the three and a half days I was in Budapest.
WARNING It is extremely important that riders validate their public transportation pass the first time they use it. The Hungarian transportation police will conduct random checks to ensure riders have valid tickets. If riding the metro, the validation machines can be found at the station’s entrance. If riding the bus or tram, there will be a red or yellow box to validate the ticket. Riders can be fined up to 25,000 HUF (approximately $64 USD) if they cannot present a valid ticket.
At Buda Hill, visitors can take the funicular to access sites such as Matthias Church and the Hungarian National Gallery. The funicular is not part of the Budapest transit pass so passengers need to purchase a ticket prior to boarding.
The funicular is fully accessible so those who utilize wheelchairs can ride this tram.
Resources
The Budapest transit website provides detailed information on passes and fares and includes a trip planner.
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