how to validate budapest travel card

How to Use BKK Travel Cards and Passes in Budapest

Whether you’re a local, an expat, or a tourist, understanding Budapest’s public transport system is key to exploring all that Budapest has to offer. The Budapest Language Exchange (BPLX) team is here to guide you through the ins and outs of using BKK’s travel cards and passes, ensuring that your journey through the city is smooth and hassle-free.

Long Term Options

For those who plan to soak in the beauty and culture of Budapest for more than just a few days, considering a long-term travel card or pass is a wise choice.

• Monthly Pass: For those making Budapest their home for over 15 days, this is your ticket to unlimited journeys across the city. It’s ideal for expats or long-term tourists who wish to seamlessly blend into the city’s daily rhythm.
• 15 Day Pass: Ideal for visitors planning a stay longer than 3 days but less than a month. This pass simplifies your travel and is a cost-effective choice after the 72 Hour Pass.

BPLX Tip: Both the 15 Day Pass and Monthly Pass remain valid until 2 AM following the expiration date, ensuring you’re covered for those late-night adventures!

Short Term Options

For short stays or quick city tours, Budapest offers convenient short-term travel cards to suit your schedule.

• 24 Hour Travel Card: Explore Budapest in a day! The 24 Hour Travel Card is perfect for a full day of sightseeing, offering unlimited access to the city’s public transport system.
• 72 Hour Travel Card: Maximize your three-day trip with the 72 Hour Travel Card. It’s an excellent choice for a weekend getaway or a short business trip.
• 24 Hour Group Travel Card: Traveling in a group? Perfect for friends and family riding the same vehicle, the 24 Hour Card for groups up to 5 people adds convenience and savings to your journey, making group travel a breeze.

Validating Your Travel Card / Pass

Understanding the validation process is crucial to enjoying a hassle-free travel experience in Budapest.

• Automatic Validation : Your travel card or pass activates automatically 2 minutes after purchase, unless a specific start time/date is specified at purchase.
• No Need for Validation : Unlike single or time-based tickets (30/90 minutes), these passes don’t require validation at machines.
• Evening and Weekend Bus Boarding : After 8 PM on weekdays and throughout weekends, front door-only boarding is implemented on most buses. Show your pass to the driver upon boarding.
• Metro Stations and Ticket Inspectors : If approached by a ticket inspector or at metro stations with ticket checks, simply present your pass for them to scan the QR code and verify its validity. Don’t get caught off guard and face penalties!

Embracing Convenience with BudapestGo

In the digital age, Budapest ensures your travel is as seamless and convenient as possible with the BudapestGo app. BudapestGo is your virtual travel companion, allowing you to plan your trip and purchase electronic tickets with just a few taps.

• Trip Planning: Get real-time updates and plan your journey across the city efficiently.
• Electronic Tickets: Purchase and store your travel cards and passes electronically, ensuring they’re always at your fingertips.

While BudapestGo offers a leap towards digital convenience, it’s wise to be prepared for situations when technology might fail us:

• No Mobile Internet?: If you find yourself without a mobile connection, it’s best to opt for a traditional paper ticket. Automated ticket machines are conveniently located throughout the city, ensuring you’re never left stranded.
• Keep Your Phone Charged: A dead phone battery is akin to not having a ticket. Always ensure your device is charged and ready for your journey.
• Got a Fine but Had a Valid Ticket?: If the unfortunate happens and your phone dies or you can’t prove your ticket’s validity due to connectivity issues, don’t worry. Visit a BKK Customer Service Center to address the situation. If you indeed had a valid ticket/pass, they can assist in reducing the fine/penalty.

Budapest Public Transit Vocab

Enhance your Budapest experience by learning some essential Hungarian public transit vocabulary.

• Busz (booz) – Bus
• Villamos (vee-lah-mosh) – Tram
• Metró (meh-tro) – Metro
• Jegy (yed-y) – Ticket
• Bérlet (bear-let) – Pass
• Megálló (meg-ah-lo) – Stop
• Pályaudvar (pah-ya-ood-var) – Station
• Menetrend (men-et-rend) – Schedule
• Járat (ya-rat) – Line (as in bus line, tram line)
• Ellenőr (el-luh-nur) – Inspector
• Érvényes (air-ven-yesh) – Valid
• Lejárt (lay-yart) – Expired
• Átszállás (aht-sah-lahsh) – Transfer
• Pótdíj (poat-dee-aj) – Surcharge
• Menetidő (men-et-e-doe) – Travel time
• Vonaljegy (vo-nal-yed-y) – Single ticket
• Korlátlan utazás (kor-lat-lan oo-ta-zash) – Unlimited travel
• Havi bérlet (hah-vee bear-let) – Monthly pass
• Napijegy (na-pi-yed-y) – Day ticket
• Csoportos jegy (cho-port-osh yed-y) – Group ticket

Join the Budapest Language Exchange Community

After navigating the city with your travel card or pass, why not dive deeper into the local culture? Budapest Language Exchange (BPLX) events are the perfect place to practice Hungarian, English, German, Spanish, French, and more. Connect with locals and expats in a fun and friendly environment, and make your Budapest experience truly unforgettable.

So, whether you’re here for a short visit or planning to stay a while, Budapest’s travel cards, coupled with your new Hungarian vocabulary, will surely make your journey smooth and enjoyable. See you at the next BPLX event!

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Budapestbylocals.com

Budapest public transport, how to travel in the city.

Use public transport services to travel in Budapest, especially if you stay in one of the outer districts.

Although attractions in the central districts (V., VI., parts of I., II., VII. and VIII.) are easy to explore on foot you might want to rest your legs after a while and hop on a metro/tram/bus.

Table of Contents – Budapest Public Transport

Best public transport lines for tourists.

You will easily get to any sight and attraction by travelling on one of the four metro lines or the major tram lines (No. 4, 6 and 2).

TIP: In case it’s cold or a summer shower catches you, take one of the four metro lines (M1 , M2, M3 and M4), or any of the major tram lines (tram 2, 2B, , 4, 6, 47, 49 or 19)

• Trams No. 2 and 2B run along the Pest Danube emabankment (between Jászai Mari tér – Közvágóhíd stops), covering the pircturesque promenade called Duna Corso and stopping in front of the Parliament in Kossuth Square.
• Trams 47 and 49 are also useful especially if you want to get from Pest to Buda or vica versa.
• Tram 19 is great for sightseeing in Buda , it connects Kelenföld Train Station with Óbuda (the Northern part of Buda). Similarly to Tram 2 and 2B in Pest it travels along the Danube between Liberty Bridge and Margaret Bridge offering a scenic view of the river and some famous attractions in Pest, in the .

See more on travelling buy tram in Budapest!

These transport services will take you to most of the places of interest.

The bus and trolley bus service are quite extensive too.

There’s also a scheduled boat service on the Danube from spring till autumn.

Below you find information on Budapest public transport: types of tickets and passes, buying, and validating them.

Popular Activities

Tickets, travel cards, prices and fines.

Budapest has a fairly extensive and efficient public transport system. It is also cheaper than in most Western European cities.

A wide variety of trams, buses, trolleys and metro trains run in the city.

Night service is quite reliable, too.

Be prepared for typical rush hours : vehicles are crowded and traffic can be rather slow. This would be expected in any large city.

Children’s Fares, Student Passes, Family Discounts

Children living in Hungary up to the age of 14 travel free of charge. A valid Hungarian identity card is required for them to verify age if a controller asks for tickets and passes.

Pupils, university students can buy discount monthly/yearly passes with a valid student ID card.

No student discount on single tickets though.

TIP: For families visiting Budapest with kids we recoomend getting the 24-hour group travel card. 5 people can travel with it for p to 24 hours and it cots 5 000 HUF.

Free Travel on Public Transport with Budapest Card

TIP: If you don’t want to bother with buying and validating tickets, purchase a Budapest City Card .

Besides unlimited free travel on public transport, the card offers a range of discounts on tours/services, free entry to the permanent exhibitions of many museums, entry to the Lukács Bath etc.

Buy Budapest Card: Public Transport, 30+ Top Attractions & Tours

• 24-Hour Card: 29 EUR
• 48-Hour Card: 43 EUR
• 72-Hour Card: 56 EUR
• 72-Hour Plus Card: 87 EUR
• 96-Hour Card: 69 EUR
• 120-Hour Card: 82 EUR

Read more about the Budapest Card and whether it’s worth getting it!

Public Transport Tickets and Passes

(Prices Updated For 2024)

Note: The price of a single ticket and discounted pack of 10 tickets has gone up as of September 01, 2023: A single ticket costs 450 HUF , pack of 10 single tickets costs 4 000 HUF. Price of travel cards, monthly passes hasn’t changed. Both are available online through the BudapestGO App .

TIP: If you visit the Hungarian capital for 2-3 days and you stay in a city center hotel , we recommend that you use:

• Single tickets or the
• Discounted block of 10 tickets to make travelling on public transport lines hassle-free.
• Time-based tickets (30-minute and 90-minute) work well too with unlimted transfers within the timeframe.

Free Travel For Seniors 65 + – EU Citizens Only

TIP: Citizens of the European Union countries and Switzerland aged 65 and up can use all public transport lines for free in Budapest.

They have to show a valid ID to verify age and nationality if asked by a ticket inspector).

The current tickets and passes are of pale purple colour.

Tickets, Transfer Tickets

• Single ticket (vonaljegy or just jegy) 450 HUF, (600 HUF if purchased from the driver on board the vehicle): valid on all public transport vehicles for one uninterrupted trip. If you
• Block of 10 single tickets (tíz darabos gyűjtőjegy: 4 000 HUF). Costs less than 10 single tickets purchased individually.

Time-Based Tickets: Save Money

Use time-based tickets if you need to transfer between metro lines and also other lines (trams, buses, trolley).

You save money with it since you don’t need to use a 450-HUF single ticket every time you need to change public transport lines.

Moreover, you can finish your trip beyond the 30th or 90th minute until you reach your destination within Budapest.

Please remember to validate your time-based ticket before the start of your travel and each time you switch to another travel line.

You can use time-based tickets for an unlimited number of transfers and trip interruptions, by validating it each time you board making sure that your last transfer falls within the 30-minute or 90-minute time limit.

There Are Two Time-Based Tickets:

• 30-minute ticket: 530 HUF
• 90-minute ticket: 750 HUF

Important! Please scan the code each time when you board a vehicle to validate your ticket. When transferring between metrolines, you are not required to revalidate your ticket.

Note: If you carry a bike with you (permitted only on a few vehicle types) you have to validate a single ticket for it.

Travel Cards

24-hour travel card.

• Price: : 2 500 HUF – Please note that is not the same as the 24-hour Budapest Card
• Valid on all public transport vehicles except for the boat service on the Danube.
• For an unlimited number of trips from 0:00 to 24:00 of the day indicated on the ticket (you decide on the starting time).

24-Hour Group Travel Card, For Max. 5 Persons

• Price: 5 000 HUF – Recommended also for families
• Valid on all public transport vehicles – except for the boat service.

72-Hour Travel Card

• Price: 5 500 HUF) – not the same as the 72-hour Budapest Card
• Valid on all public transport vehicles – except for the boat service- for an unlimited number of trips for 72 hours starting from the time and date you purchased it.

Public Boat Service Tickets

Unfortunatley Public Boat services ceased to run as of 2023 due to high maintenance expenses.

Where To Buy Tickets And Passes?

You have two options, choose the one that you’re more comfortable with:

BudapestGO App or Paper Tickets/Tarvel Cards

• Go the traditional way and buy and use paper tickets and travel cards (24-hour or 72-hour, or if you are comfortable with using apps
• Download the BudapestGO public transport application to buy single tickets, time based tickets (for 30-minute or 90-minute duration) and 24/72-hour travel cards. The app is also a great help in planning your route providing real-time travel information as well as route and service recommendations including the BuBi public bike rental points.

You can buy paper tickets and travel cards from the ticket vending machines with bankcard (or cash) . You The purple colored ticket automats are placed at main public transport stations (metro entrance), as well as at the airport.

The airport also has BKK Customer Sales Points where you can get your ticket/travel card from a real person.

If you don’t have or don’t want to use the BudapestGO App you have to buy your tickets/pass in advance.

You can get them from ticket vending machines (TVM) or at many newspaper kiosks.

Around 300 new ticket vending machines have been placed throughout the city where you can get tickets and passes 24/7 by paying with cash or bank card.

I often use them and found them are quite reliable .

Most ticket offices have closed down though. You will find Ticket Offices (Jegypénztár) in some metro stations near the entrance:

• Corvin negyed M3/blue line,
• Népliget M3/blue line,
• Nyugati tér M3/blue line,
• Blaha Lujza tér M2/red line,
• Széll Kálmán tér M2/red line.

Most cashiers speak only Hungarian so it’s best to go to the cashier with a piece of paper on which you’ve written down in Hungarian what type of ticket you want to buy.

TIP: Here is a map of the Public Transport Company showing all the operating ticket sellers .

How To Use The Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs)?

Using the machines is pretty straightforward, just read the instructions displayed on the monitor.

First choose language by touching the appropriate flag symbol on the bottom of the screen on the right hand side of the TVM.

A list of the most popular ticket types and passes will appear

• Single ticket-350 HUF,
• Block of 10 tickets – 3000 HUF,
• 24-hour travel card,
• 24-hour group travel card,
• Various monthly passes.

I only give you the steps on buying tickets/travel card because these are the ones most suited to tourists visiting Budapest for a couple of days.

Buying Ticket/Travel Card From The TVM:

• Select the ticket/travel card you want to buy.
• Decide whether you want the machine to print an invoice , if not then press payment without VAT invoice.
• Choose payment method: you can pay by cash, bank card (PayPass/contactless cards). I prefer using bank card, and recommend this payment method for tourists as well.

Paying By Bank Card/Contactless Card – Recommended For Tourists

The simplest and fastest way is to pay with a bankcard/contactless card .

Just follow the steps shown on the card terminal screen. After payment collect the purchased ticket or travel card.

Paying By Cash:

The machine accepts all current Hungarian coins from 5 HUF to 200 HUF.

You can use banknotes too: 500 HUF, 1 000 HUF, 2 000 HUF, 5 000 HUF, 10 000 HUF, 20 000 HUF. Based on the total value of the purchase the TVM defines the banknotes to be accepted.

If the purchase is of a small amount (e.g. a 350 HUF single ticket) 2000 HUF or smaller notes are accepted. In case of a bigger purchase larger notes can also be used.

The machine accepts 35 coins and 15 banknotes per transaction. It gives back changes in coins and notes.

Make sure you don’t leave your bank card or other belongings at the machine.

You can also view an instructional video on how to buy monthly passes and use the vending machines on the transport company’s (BKK) website.

How To Validate Tickets?

You must validate your ticket at the start of your journey.

Metro Stations

In case of metro tickets you have to put the ticket in the ticket validation machine (orange coloured box on a metal pole) that’ll stamp a time and date on the ticket.

A short musical tone and the tiny green light confirm that the ticket has been validated.

Once you validated the metro ticket you head for the escalator that’ll take you to the metro platform where you wait for the metro car.

At the top of the escalator ticket inspectors will most likely stop you to check whether you’ve validated your ticket.

Other Vehicles

On other vehicles (trams, buses, trolley) there’ s

• Either the orange or yellow box similar to the ones in metro stations, or
• A smaller red box in which you insert the ticket then pull the black part on the top towards you to punch the ticket (a pattern of holes appear on the validated ticket).

Note: The slot on some ticket validation machines is clogged with chewing gum or paper (deliberately done by prank makers) so you won’t be able to insert the ticket. Try another machine on the vehicle to validate your ticket.[

Inspectors check passengers’ tickets throughout the day.

An inspector usually wears dark blue uniform and a blue with a red armband. Nowadays, however they are in plain clothes (but still must put on the armband when checking tickets) in order to disguise themselves.

To avoid problems , buy the type of ticket or pass that are most suitable for your visit and your budget, and remember to validate it. Keep your ticket until the end of your journey.

Fines are high (if caught travelling without a valid ticket or pass you’ll be fined to pay 16.000 HUF, 8.000 HUF if you pay it on the spot or within 2 days of being fined)

It’s not worth ruining your stay with constant watching out for the inspectors. If you forgot to buy a ticket or validate it, and you’re fined the ticket inspector must give you a receipt about the payment.

Fines For Travelling Without A Valid Ticket/Pass

If you’re caught without a valid ticket by a ticket inspector , you are to pay a fine which is currently 12 000 HUF paid on the spot or in BKK’s Surcharge Office within 2 work days from the date of the fining.

Note: The inspector must give you a receipt of the payment when you pay on the spot.

If you don’ pay the fine on the spot or within 2 work days, but settle the amount within 30 days the penalty fare is 25 000 HUF .

If you don’t pay the fine on the spot, the ticket inspector initiates a fining procedure (ensuring the opportunity of deferred payment).

In this case he/she is entitled to ask the required personal data (name, mother’s name, date and place of birth) and also the address of the passenger. On the basis of these data, the ticket inspector fills in a so-called “Surcharging procedure report”.

If the passenger refuses to give his/her personal data, the ticket inspector can ask for police assistance on the spot.

The ticket inspector gives a cheque about the amount of the fine and a leaflet about the opportunities of payment.

The passenger shall sign that he/she accepts the surcharging and confirms that he/she has given the required personal data. The denial of signature doesn’t acquit the passenger of the consequences of the fining.

You’ll find the most up-to-date information about tickets, prices and penalty fines on the Public Transport Company’s website (BKK).

Budapest Card: guide, review and comparison

The Budapest Card is the official tourist pass offering free entry to more than 30 museums and attractions in the city, free entry to the thermal baths and the Lukács Baths and unlimited use of all public transport , such as the BKK bus, metro and tram.

Furthermore, the 72h Plus version of the card, in addition to the 100 services included in the Budapest Card, offers a miniBUD airport transfer, a Danube cruise , a funicular railway ride to Buda Castle, admission to Matthias Church and a typical Hungarian dessert, Molnár’s kürtőskalács.

The Budapest Card is the best way to get access to public transport and tickets to Budapest’s main attractions at a reduced price or even for free, if you want to buy it you can do so conveniently online by visiting Budapest Card booking page , otherwise discover all the benefits below.

What is included in the Budapest Card

The Budapest Card includes free entry to almost all of the city’s most important museums and discounts at many attractions and activities. It also allows unlimited use of city transport for as long as the card is valid. Specifically, here is what you get

• Free admission to Budapest’s major museums and attractions
• Unlimited travel on public transport, whether you take the metro, trams or buses. Bus 200E to/from the airport is also included
• Free admission to the Lukacs Baths , one of the oldest thermal baths in the city
• Guided walking tours in English in Buda and Pest
• Official tourist bus in the Castle District
• Discounts of up to 50% on many other tours and attractions

Attractions included in the Budapest Card

There are many museums and attractions included in the Budapest Card , such as the Castle Museums (National Gallery and Historical Museum) or the beautiful Lukács Thermal Baths: see the full list below. Unfortunately, free admission to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, one of the city’s most visited attractions, is not included.

• Hungarian National Gallery
• Hungarian National Museum
• Budapest Museum of Fine Arts
• Castle Museum
• Memento Park, Statue Museum
• Robert Capa Centre for Contemporary Photography
• House of Hungarian Photographers – Mai Manó Ház
• Museum Ludwig – Museum of Contemporary Art
• Aquincum Museum
• Ferenc Hopp Museum of Oriental Arts
• Vasarely Museum
• Kiscelli Museum

Other attractions included in the Budapest Card

• Free visit to Buda Tower
• Free visit to the Pálvölgyi Caves
• Free official castle bus
• Free guided walking tours of Pest and Buda
• Free admission to the Lukács Baths and swimming pool
• Free ride on the Zugligeti chairlift

Free guided tours in Buda and Pest

Guided tours in Buda and Pest start daily at 10 a.m. with a meeting point in district 5, Vàci Utca 31, in front of Kurtoskalacs in Molnár. The tour to Buda, on the other hand, starts at 2 p.m., at the Castle, from the Trinity statue. The tours last about two hours and are both in English.

Discounted admission with the Budapest Card

In addition to these not insignificant advantages, there are a series of discounts of up to 50% at museums, restaurants, cafés, thermal baths and other services. The most interesting are those for St Stephen’s Basilica, the Great Synagogue, Danube cruises and so on.

Among the discounted activities are admissions to various thermal baths , such as a 20 per cent discount at the Széchenyi Baths , Gellért Baths , Rudas Baths and other establishments in the city. The Budapest Card also provides discounts for a number of restaurants and pubs throughout Budapest.

• 50% discount for St Stephen’s Hall in Buda Castle
• 25% discount on Legenda City Cruises
• 25% discount for the Museum Hospital in the Rock and the Antiatomic Bunker
• 20% discount for the Hop-On Hop-Off bus
• 20% discount at Széchenyi Baths, Rudas Baths, Aquaworld Resort Budapest and Lupa Beach
• 20% discount on door-to-door airport transfer service with miniBUD
• 10% discount for the Budapest Great Synagogue
• 10-20% discount at Molnár’s Kürtőskalács Restaurant, Halászbástya Étterem, Zsolnay Kávéház, Párisi Passage Restaurant, Café Astoria Restaurant, Hard Rock Cafe

Types of Budapest Card

There are various types of Budapest Card, which differ from each other in terms of the duration of validity; the services included always remain the same. There is a first card that is valid for 24 hours from the moment of activation, and then there are cards valid for 48 hours, 72 hours, 96 hours and 120 hours.

Budapest Card 72 Hours Plus

For an even more complete experience, you can purchase the Budapest Card 72 Hours Plus , which also includes

• round-trip mini-BUD transfer
• a boat cruise on the Danube
• a round trip on the Buda Castle funicular railway
• access to Matthias Church
• a Molnár’s kürtöskalács, a typical Hungarian sweet

Budapest Card 72 e-XPLORER

As of 2023, a digital version of Budapest Card 72 is also available, called Budapest Card 72 e-XPLORER . Unlike the physical card, you will receive the e-card by email in PDF format and can use it from your smartphone and, in addition to the same benefits as the Budapest Card, it also includes

• free unlimited Hop On Hop Off bus tours
• free cruises on the Danube
• free entry to the Cinema Mystica light show

How much does the Budapest Card cost

The Budapest Card can be valid for 24, 48, 72, 96 or 120 hours, depending on the duration the price changes of course. The 72 Plus and 72 e-XPLORER versions cost more than the basic version.

How to buy and activate the Budapest Card

The Budapest Card can be purchased online on this page or by filling in the form below and you can pick it up at the Budapest Info Point Városháza Park every day from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., or directly upon arrival at the airport, at the BKK Customer Service Centres in Budapest Airport Terminals 2A and 2B.

Once you have purchased the card you need to validate it by signing it, adding the date and time you wish to start using it. Simply show the Budapest Card at the ticket counters of the museums included in the programme in order to obtain free admission or a discount.

An alternative to the Budapest Card: the Tiqets Budapest Pass

The innovative Budapest Pass from Tiqets is actually a combination ticket: with a single pass you buy admission to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths (and the Palinka Museum), and a ticket for a sightseeing cruise on the Danube. In addition, you can download an app with a Budapest tourist guide and get a 10% discount on tickets to other Budapest attractions on the Tiqets website.

The card is cheap if you only intend to visit the attractions included in the Pass and nothing else! Also remember that it does not include transport.

Budapest Card: The Ultimate Guide for Every Enthusiastic Traveler

Are you planning a trip to Budapest and wondering how to make the most of your stay? Look no further than the Budapest Card – the ultimate travel pass that offers discounts and free entry to a range of top attractions in the city. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about the Budapest Card, including its benefits, costs, and where to buy it.

Note: This article contains affiliate links. In case you purchase something through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost for you. Thank you for helping us keep creating the free content on this website!

What is the Budapest Card?

The Budapest Card is a discount card designed for tourists visiting Budapest. It provides free access to over 30 museums and attractions in the city, as well as unlimited travel on public transport, including buses, trams, and metro lines. Additionally, the card offers discounts on various cultural events, tours, and restaurants.

Benefits of the Budapest Card

This card offers numerous benefits to travelers, including:

Free entry to top attractions

The card provides free access to over 30 attractions in Budapest, including the Hungarian National Museum, the Budapest History Museum, and the Hungarian State Opera House. It also provides free entry to a range of thermal baths, such as the Gellért and Széchenyi Baths.

Unlimited public transport

The Budapest Card allows unlimited travel on Budapest's public transport system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. This is particularly useful for travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace and don't want to worry about the cost of individual tickets.

Discounts on tours and cultural events

The Card offers discounts on a range of tours and cultural events in the city, including river cruises, bike tours, and wine tastings. Additionally, the card provides discounts on restaurants and souvenir shops, making it an excellent value for money.

Free to visit

Pálvölgyi cave, Official castle bus, Lukács bath, Castle museum, Budapest gallery, Aquimcum museum, Kiscelli museum, Hungarian National Gallery, Hungarian national museum, Ferenc Hopp Museum of Asian Art, Mai Manó House - Photo Gallery, Robert Capa - Centre for Contemporary Photography, Memento Park, Béla Bartók Memorial House, Museum of Fine Arts, Art Gallery, Ludwig museum, Vasarely museum, Military History Institute and Museum, Hungarian Trade and Hospitality Museum, Goldberger Textile Collection-Óbuda Museum, Palace of Wonders , Paul Valley Cave Urban Betyár Restaurant and Visitor Centre, Liget Visitor Centre, Medieval Jewish House of Prayer, Castle Garden Bazaar New World Born Exhibition, BUDATOWER Mary Magdalene Tower, CITYRAMA - Walking tour of Buda, CITYRAMA - Pest walking tour, Bicycle rental, Buda Castle Slide (only with 72h Plus card), MiniBUD airport transfer, Free public transport, chairlift at Jánoshegy

10% discount

Szamos Chocolate Manufactory, Hungarian Jewish Museum, VR Amusement park, PanicQ room

15% discount

Tropicarium, St Stephen's Basilica, Royal Castle of Gödöllő

20% discount

Szentendre Skanzen, Hungarian Millennium House - Neo Contemporary Art Square, Szemlő-mountain cave, Time Trap Escape Room, Carousel Citysightseeing Budapest, Hop on-Hop off Budapest, Go Trabi Go, Palatinus Beach, Római Beach, Rudas Baths, Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Aquaworld, Lupa Beach, Budget Car Hire

25% discount

Rock Hospital Nuclear Bunker Museum, Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden , Circus performances at the Capital Circus of Budapest , Legend sightseeing boat

50% discount

Hungarian Railway Historical Park, Unicum House

How to buy the Budapest Card

There are several ways to purchase it, including online, at Budapest's major transport hubs, and at various hotels and tourist information offices throughout the city. The card is available in 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour versions, with prices starting at €22 for the 24-hour card.

Purchasing and utilizing the card is a simple process. The Budapest Card provides an abundance of activities and opportunities. Visiting the Hungarian capital has never been easier or more cost-effective than with the Budapest Card. This comprehensive card gives tourists access to a wide variety of activities, from exciting adventures to tranquil moments of relaxation. With great discounts and time-saving benefits, you're guaranteed an unforgettable experience in Budapest.

If you purchase the CITYRAMA Card, you'll get access to two complimentary guided city walks of Buda and Pest, as well as free admission to Szent Lukács Spa and complimentary use of the Zugligeti Goose Baths - a great bonus!

Or you can purchase it clicking here:

How to use the Budapest Card

Using the Budapest Card is easy – simply present the card at the entrance to any participating attraction to gain free entry or show it to the ticket inspector on public transport for unlimited travel. The card also includes a guidebook and map, making it easy to plan your itinerary and navigate the city.

Tips and tricks for using the Budapest Card

To make the most of your Budapest Card, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Plan your itinerary in advance. Before you arrive in Budapest, take some time to research the attractions you want to visit and plan your itinerary accordingly. This will help you make the most of your card and avoid wasting time and money on activities that aren't included.
• Check the validity period. Make sure you're aware of the validity period of your Card, as it will expire at the end of the selected period. If you're planning to stay in Budapest for more than 72 hours, consider purchasing multiple cards to cover your entire trip.
• Validate the card. When you first use your Budapest Card, make sure to validate it by writing your name and the start date and time on the back of the card. This will ensure that you're not charged for public transport and that you can access all the benefits of the card.

The Budapest Card is an excellent value for money for travelers visiting Budapest, offering free entry to top attractions, unlimited public transport, and discounts on tours and cultural events. With prices starting at just €22, it's a must-have for anyone looking to explore the city's rich history and culture.

Can I use the Budapest Card on night buses and trams? Yes, it can be used on night buses and trams, as well as all other forms of public transport in the city.

Are there any restrictions on the number of attractions I can visit with the Budapest Card? No, there are no restrictions on the number of attractions you can visit with the Card. However, it's important to note that some attractions may require advance booking or have limited availability, so it's a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance.

Is it worth buying the Budapest Card for a short stay in the city? If you're planning to visit several top attractions and use public transport frequently, then the Budapest Card is definitely worth considering, even for a short stay. However, if you're only planning to visit a few attractions or will mostly be exploring on foot, then it may not be the best value for money.

Can I purchase the Budapest Card at the airport? Yes, it can be purchased at the airport, either at the tourist information desk or from vending machines located throughout the terminal.

Can I share my Budapest Card with someone else? No, the Budapest Card is non-transferable and can only be used by the person whose name is written on the back of the card. Attempting to share or transfer the card may result in the card being confiscated or invalidated.

For more information about the discounts offered by Budapest Card Click here .

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Budapest 7 Day Travel Card: Your Ultimate Guide

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

Are you planning a trip to Budapest? Exploring a new city can be exciting, but navigating public transportation systems can sometimes be overwhelming. To make your travel experience in Budapest hassle-free, let’s dive into the details of the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card.

What is the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card?

The Budapest 7 Day Travel Card is a convenient and cost-effective solution for unlimited travel on public transportation within Budapest for a period of seven consecutive days. With this card, you can easily explore the city’s attractions, museums, and enjoy the vibrant local culture without worrying about purchasing individual tickets or dealing with change.

How Does the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card Work?

The Budapest 7 Day Travel Card functions as an electronic ticket, allowing you to hop on and off various means of public transportation without any restrictions within the city. This includes buses, trams, metro lines, and even the funicular to Buda Castle.

Once you purchase the travel card, it becomes valid from the date and time of activation. It is essential to validate the card before starting your journey by touching it on the designated readers located at the entrance of metro stations and on buses and trams.

Where Can You Purchase the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card?

The Budapest 7 Day Travel Card can be purchased at various locations throughout the city, including:

• Public transportation ticket offices
• Vending machines at metro stations
• Some newsstands and tobacco shops
• Selected hotels and hostels

It is advisable to purchase the card in advance to avoid any inconvenience during your trip.

How Much Does the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card Cost?

The cost of the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card depends on the type of card you choose. Currently, the prices are as follows:

Please note that prices are subject to change, so it’s recommended to check the latest pricing information before your trip.

Benefits of the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card

Here are some significant advantages of using the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card:

• Unlimited travel: The card offers unlimited travel for seven consecutive days, allowing you to explore Budapest at your own pace.
• Cost-effective: If you plan to use public transportation regularly during your stay, the 7-day travel card offers excellent value for money compared to purchasing individual tickets.
• Convenience: With the travel card, you don’t need to worry about searching for loose change or buying tickets every time you board a bus or tram.
• Time-saving: Avoid waiting in long queues at ticket vending machines and save time for your exploration.

Tips for Using the Budapest 7 Day Travel Card

Plan your itinerary.

Before using the travel card, plan your itinerary and decide on the attractions you wish to visit. This way, you can make the most out of your unlimited travel.

Keep the card with you

Always carry the travel card with you during your exploration of Budapest. Inspectors may ask you to present valid tickets, and failure to do so may result in penalties.

Activate the card upon arrival

Remember to activate the card upon arrival in Budapest. The seven-day validity starts from the moment of activation.

Ask for assistance

If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to ask the staff of the public transportation system. They are usually friendly and ready to help.

The Budapest 7 Day Travel Card is an excellent choice for travelers who want to explore the beautiful city of Budapest without the hassle of individual tickets. With unlimited travel for seven consecutive days, you can enjoy a comfortable and cost-effective journey, visiting popular attractions, and immersing yourself in the local culture. Plan your itinerary, purchase the travel card in advance, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Budapest!

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The Budapest Travelcard

In terms of public transit coverage and ease of use, Budapest takes the cake. It was delightfully simple to get around the city and navigate buses , trams , and metros . In the summer, there are also ferries shuttling tourists and locals alike across the Danube River.

If you’ll be in Budapest for a full day or longer, we highly recommend buying the Travelcard.

A single fare on public transport costs 350 HUF, which is about $1.25. Cheap! However, we were moving around so frequently that we quickly saved money by purchasing a Travelcard.

Travelcard Prices

24-hour Travelcard: 1,650 HUF ($5.80)

72-hour Travelcard: 4,150 HUF ($14.80)

24-hour Group Travelcard: 3,300 HUF ($11.70)

7 Day Travelcard: 4,950 HUF ($17.70)

If you’re in a group of 3 or more, the group Travelcard is a great deal. Each group card can be used for up to 5 people. The only downfall is that you’ll have to buy a new 24 hour card each day of the trip.

If you’ll be in Budapest more than 3 days, the 7 Day pass is a fantastic deal!

Where to Buy a Travelcard in Budapest

We purchased our Travelcards at a customer service desk in the airport. There are also customer service centers at several of the popular metro stations in the heart of the city- Deák Ferenc tér, Keleti pályaudvar (which also houses the Keleti Train Station), and Móricz Zsigmond körtér, to name a few. You may also purchase a Travelcard from an automated kiosk available at many metro and bus stations. Use www.bkk.hu/salespoints to help find a location near you.

Caveats to the Budapest Travelcard

The uber-useful Travelcard does have a few limitations. It is not valid on the 100E airport bus, the funicular near the castle, and special Heritage Transport Vehicles. The Heritage Transport lines only run from May to October during the weekends, and are obviously marked. The Travelcard is available on boats during weekdays. On the weekend, you must buy a separate ticket for all boat routes except D14.

Using the Budapest Travelcard

Getting around Budapest is simple. We typically use Google Maps to determine which routes to use. For more info on how we do this, click here.

You will see plenty of signs reminding you to validate your ticket. However, if you hold a Travelcard, you do NOT need to validate your ticket each time you board. Instead, your card will be validated upon the start time you chose when you make the purchase, and will expire after the designated 24 or 72 hours.

Other than these minor rules, the Travelcard will give you the ability to see any popular destination in Budapest. It’s a great value, and navigating the public transit system is simple! We would strongly recommend getting one of these passes as soon as you arrive in Budapest.

The Budapest Travelcard is NOT the Budapest Citycard!

The Budapest Card should not be confused with the Travelcard. The City Card can also be used for the same free use of public transportation. It also provides entry to several museums and guided walking tours. We did not find the Budapest City Card to be useful to us, as it is much more expensive (About $50 per person for 72 hours, which is an additional $35) and we were not planning on making use of many of its perks. We would recommend checking out their website and deciding if your travel plans would make use of the added features.

Click here to return to our Budapest Public Transit Main Page.

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Your Essential Budapest Travel Guide

Discover Budapest with the Ultimate Travel Companion: The Budapest Card

Budapest Guide » Travel Tips » Discover Budapest with the Ultimate Travel Companion: The Budapest Card

Budapest Card

Venturing into the heart of Hungary? Welcome to Budapest, a city with a rich tapestry of history , architecture , and culture . Exploring such a diverse city can sometimes be overwhelming, especially when you’re on a budget. Enter the Budapest Card – your gateway to a hassle-free, budget-friendly, and comprehensive Budapest experience.

What Exactly is the Budapest Card?

The Budapest Card is Budapest’s official city pass. It’s like having a golden ticket in your pocket! This all-in-one city card not only ensures unlimited rides on the extensive public transportation network but also showers you with countless benefits, be it for attractions, dining , or relaxation.

Unparalleled Benefits of the Budapest Card

• Seamless Public Transportation : Forget fumbling for change or buying separate tickets. With the Budapest Card, jump aboard over 200 buses, 32 trams, 15 trolleybuses, 4 metro lines , and more, absolutely free. This also includes special excursions like the rack-and-pinion railway and the “ Libegő ” to the Buda hills. And if you’re a night owl? The card has you covered with free rides on all-night buses and tram 6. Planning to fly out from the Liszt Ferenc International Airport ? The M3 metro line, coupled with the 200E bus , will get you to Terminal 2 seamlessly.
• Dive into Attractions and Museums : Say goodbye to long ticket queues. Enjoy free admissions to premier institutions like the Hungarian National Gallery , the Budapest History Museum , and the Museum of Fine Arts . That’s not all – cherish discounted entries to iconic sights like the Hungarian Parliament , the Budapest Zoo , and the Hungarian State Opera .
• Relax in Thermal Baths : Immerse yourself in Budapest’s world-famous thermal baths . With the Budapest Card, revel in discounted access to the legendary Széchenyi Thermal Bath , the Gellért Bath , and the Rudas Baths .
• Guided Tours : Complement your self-exploration with complimentary guided walking tours in English. Dive deep into the city’s intriguing tales, legends, and historical milestones.
• Savor and Celebrate : Experience the culinary delights of Budapest. The Budapest Card entitles you to discounts at select restaurants, cafes, and entertainment spots.

Choosing the Right Budapest Card for Your Adventure

The Budapest Card is your passport to uncovering the city’s vibrant soul. With so much to offer, you may wonder, “Which card fits my travel plan?”

A Card for Every Traveler:

Budapest Card comes in three tailored durations:

• 24-hour for quick sojourns
• 48-hour for extended weekends
• 72-hour for immersive stays

Initiate your adventure, and the card springs to life, valid for the exact duration inscribed on it. The best part? It remains dormant until you decide to kickstart your journey, with a validity of one year from the purchase date. So, feel free to buy in advance and cash in on early-bird savings!

Note: Each card caters to an individual traveler. While many city passes elsewhere may extend child discounts, the Budapest Card is presently an exception.

Your Budapest Card Decision Matrix:

• Duration of your Budapest sojourn?
• How many wonders do you plan to explore?
• Savings on your mind?

If Budapest is a brief pitstop, where you aim to toast at the Rhapsody Restaurant and Bar, followed by a rejuvenating session at the Lukács Thermal Bath and Swimming Pool, the 24-hour card is your ally. But if Budapest’s allure keeps you longer, or your itinerary is packed, the 48 or 72-hour versions beckon.

The Budapest Card is almost akin to having the city on a platter. Dive into bars, gastronomical delights, wellness centers, cultural hubs, and more while relishing substantial savings or complimentary offers. Whether you’re navigating the city using public transport, embarking on enlightening walking tours, or relaxing in thermal baths, this card is your golden ticket.

Budapest Card Pricing

Getting your budapest card.

Planning in advance? Secure your Budapest Card online. Alternatively, once you touch down in Budapest, you can get the card at the airport, Budapest Info Points, and a majority of the hotels in the city. Tailor your card to your stay: Choose from 24, 48, 72, 96, or 120-hour options.

BUDAPESTINFO OFFICES (You can buy your Budapest Card here offline)

Budapestinfo Tourist Information Offices are the only official tourist information offices in Budapest, operated by Budapest Brand Ltd.

Tourist Information, Budapest Card ® and voucher exchange: Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport Terminal 2A  Opening hours: 8.00 a.m. – 10.00 p.m. Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport Terminal 2B Opening hours: 9.00 a.m. – 9.00 p.m. Városháza Park Hütte (1052 Budapest, Károly körút)​ Opening hours: 9.00 a.m. – 7.00 p.m. Budapest Card ® Information Hotline 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.: +36 1 318 8718​

Concluding Thoughts

Budapest, with its rich offerings, promises an unforgettable journey. The Budapest Card ensures this journey is not just memorable but also smooth and economical. If you wish to immerse in the Budapest vibe truly, ensure this card is in your pocket! Safe travels and happy exploring!

Budapest Card: Is It Worth It? – Pros, Cons + How to Use It

The first thing my husband and I did when we landed in Budapest was to purchase the Budapest Card 72 hours. We were going to spend 3 days in Budapest so we wanted to be prepared and equipped. Along with booking a budget hotel in Budapest , also purchasing the city card can save you some good money and allow you to enjoy what the Hungarian capital has to offer, including tours and spas.

We used the card every day quite a lot, so now we are writing a full review to help you decide whether or not it’s worth it.

Table of Contents

Budapest Card – Our Full Review

We used our Budapest city card 72 hours every day of our trip. Was it convenient? Did we regret purchasing it? Read our full review to learn everything about the Budapest city pass.

READ MORE: How to plan a perfect trip to Budapest

Which Budapest Card shall I choose?

Depending on how many days you are staying in Budapest and what are your preferences, there are different types of passes. So you go from a one-day pass (24 hours) to a 5-day one (120 hours). The 3-day Budapest city card of 72 hours comes also in two other versions, and 72h Plus.

So, obviously, if you are staying in Budapest for 2 days, the 48h Budapest city card is your best option. Similarly, if you are staying longer but think that you will only have three days to explore the city, you might as well buy Budapest Card 72h.

The Budapest city pass gives free entry to a number of museums and discounts on several other museums as well as activities. So your choice can also depend on what type of trip you want to have.

READ MORE: Best Budapest restaurants for first-time visitors

What can I do with my Budapest City Card?

As mentioned earlier, the Budapest city pass gives you free entry to several museums and a discount on others and on popular activities, from 10 to even 50 percent off. The discounts and free entries vary depending on which card you buy.

For example, the Budapest Card 72 hours and 72h Plus give you a discount on two dinners at one of the restaurants’ partners in the initiative, while you won’t have this with the 48h card.

All cards buy you free access to the Lukacs Thermal Baths, the Hungarian National Museum, the two galleries inside Buda Castle (Budapest History Museum and Hungarian National Gallery), Memento Park, a visit to Buda Tower, Aquincum Open Air Museum and the Hungarian House of Photography among others. You will also get a free guided walk around Buda and Pest.

Unfortunately, many of the main tourist landmarks are not included in the pass. You will have a discount in some, while others are simply not participating in the initiative.

Some of the most popular for which you will need to pay are the House of Terror, Matthew’s Church, the Hungarian Parliament, the Great Synagogue and Fisherman’s Bastion. At the Fisherman’s Bastion, you will have a 10 percent discount. Also, the panoramic point of Saint Stephen’s Basilica is not included. With the card, you will have 15 percent off.

Most of these are actually must-see landmarks for anyone traveling to Budapest for the first time. This is why adding the single tickets to the Budapest card price makes it pretty expensive.

The Budapest Card will also give you a discount on the Hop-On-Hop-Off tourist buses. These are managed by private companies, so check with them first if they are a partner in the initiative and how much is the discount.

Public transport with the Budapest City Card

Probably the number 1 reason that made us not regret buying the Budapest pass was free public transport. Having free buses, trams, and metro was not only great to save money, but also saving time and avoiding the hassle of always looking for the tickets.

Budapest Card 72h gives you also free transport between the airport and the city center. You can take the bus 200E to the metro station Nagyvarad tér on the blue line and then take the metro to your destination. Everything is included in the card price.

The other shuttle bus from the airport, n. 100E is not included in the Budapest pass. So you would need to buy it separately at the airport and pay either by card or with the local currency HUF. The bus 100E takes you directly to the city center and important metro stations such as Kalvin tér and Deak Ferenc.

If you choose the Budapest Card 72h Plus, you also have a free airport shuttle bus miniBUD and a free cruise on the Danube that the other cards don’t contemplate.

Where can I buy the Budapest Pass?

There are many ways and places where you can buy the Budapest city card. Probably the best option is to buy it online before leaving, so when you arrive, you need to take the receipt to one of the official stands and they will give you the card.

The places where you can collect your Budapest city pass are:

• Budapestinfo Point at the Terminal 2A of Liszt Ferenc Budapest Airport
• Budapestinfo Point at the Terminal 2B of Liszt Ferenc Budapest Airport
• Budapestinfo Point at Deák Ferenc Square 1052, Sütő u. 2
• Budapestinfo Point at Heroes’ Square 1146, Olof Palme sétány 5
• Budapestinfo Point at Budavár Budapest Tárnok u. 15. (Holy Trinity Square pavilion)
• Chocolate Museum Szamos, 1055 Budapest, Kossuth tér 10

Buy your city card online and save time!

It’s possible to buy the Budapest city pass also directly at these info points but be aware that at the airport they don’t accept any currency different from the Hungarian. So unless you already have the local money, you either pay by card or need to withdraw.

If you want to buy your pass at one of the info points in the city, you might miss some free transport that the card would likely give you, also from the airport to the city center.

How to use the Budapest City Card

Specific rules apply to how to use the Budapest card pass. This is a handy checklist on what to do when you buy the key and how to activate it.

• With a pen, write the starting date with the exact time and your signature on the back. The card is valid only if it’s signed.
• The card is valid for 24, 48, 72, 96 or 120 hours from the time you start using it, which is the time you wrote on the back.
• Wherever you use it, they will check it. They never checked ours on the buses or trams, but always before getting on the metro.
• You can register your card on the official website so you can have a free replacement if you lose it or gets stolen.
• If you don’t use the card, you can’t give it back. You can use it on your next visit but within a specific time span. Enquire at one of the info points for more info.

READ MORE: Our apartment in Budapest: Full Review

Budapest City Pass price: is it worth it? Pros and cons

This is the price of the Budapest city card depending on its duration:

• Budapest Card 24h: 12,885 HUF (33€/35,7USD)
• Budapest Card 48h: 19,133 HUF (49€/53USD)
• Budapest Card 72h: 24,599 HUF (63€/68,1USD)
• Budapest Card 72h Plus: 37,485 HUF (96€/103,72USD)
• Budapest Card 96h: 30,066 HUF (77€/83,3USD)
• Budapest Card 120h: 35,923 HUF (92€/99,5USD)

Pros of Budapest City Pass

• The biggest benefit we found was, by all means, free public transport. We saved time and money.
• You have some free museums among the most important ones such as the National Hungarian Museum and the History Museum, and some other lesser famous.
• You have free entrance to Lukacs thermal baths and discounts on others.
• You have discounts on landmarks and activities including the Hop On Hop Off buses and some cruises on the Danube.
• You can enjoy a free guided walk.

Cons of Budapest City Card

• It’s not that cheap. Costing 43 euro per person, I would have expected more attractions and activities free of charge.
• Many important landmarks are not included, such as the Hungarian Parliament, Matthew’s Church and the House of Terror.

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OnlineTravelCardV2

Budapest travel card, what's included.

• Receive the card directly in your hand.
• No need to waste time picking up the card in Budapest.
• Valid for 72 hours for all metros, buses, and trams in Budapest.
• Your experienced driver will be waiting for you at the Arrival Hall with a sign bearing your name. This is the best way to start your city trip.

How it works

• The prices displayed are for accommodation within the city. If your hotel is outside the city, we will contact you with the appropriate pricing.
• Children under 12 years old travel for free on public transportation in Budapest.
• Click here to view the Public transportation information

At OnlineTravelCard.com, we are committed to providing you with a comprehensive travel solution that combines convenience, affordability, and personalized service. Elevate your Budapest experience with our Public Transportation Card and start your city exploration on the right foot.

Your journey begins here. Book your Budapest Travel Card now.

Reserve now and pay later

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How To Use The Public Transportation In Budapest? (Tickets & Fares)

Published by veronika on june 9, 2018.

Most of the main sights in Budapest are easily accessible on foot. But if you are tight on time or you feel that you have already walked enough for the day, our capital also has an excellent public transportation system with four metro lines and an extensive network of trams and buses. So it is really easy to get around! Here is a little guide on how to use the public transportation in Budapest.

In Budapest travel like the locals do!

What types of tickets are available and how much do they cost?

You can either buy single tickets or have a travel card valid for a longer period of time.

A s ingle ticket costs 350 HUF (about 1.2 euros, 450 HUF if bought from the driver on some lines) and is valid for one ride after validation. Each time you board a new vehicle you need to validate a new ticket. Transfers with the same ticket are only allowed on the metro lines. Apart from the metro, transferring between lines (eg. from a tram to a tram, a tram to a bus, a bus to a bus etc.) requires a new single ticket. You can save a little by buying 10 single tickets in a block for 3000 HUF.

On the other hand,  travel cards are valid for a longer period of time from the date and time indicated on them. They are valid for an unlimited number of rides and you do not need to worry about validation every time you board a new vehicle. The simple day pass is worth it if you would use the public transportation at least five times within 24 hours. The table below shows the prices for the most common travel card types. Here you can find a more detailed list of tickets and fares.

Trams on the Great Boulevard run all night long.

Where to buy tickets and travel cards?

At the airport – The Budapest Public Transportation Center (BKK) has a Customer Service Point on both Terminal 2A and Terminal 2B of the Liszt Ferenc International Airport. Open from 8 a.m. (2A) / 9 a.m. (2B) until 10 p.m. (both terminals).  There are also vending machines if you arrive too late or too early. They accept bank cards, so don’t bother with changing money . All ticket types are available. ( Here you can read more on transportation to and from the airport.)

At major transportation hubs – BKK has Customer Centers at transportation hubs like Deák tér, Ferenciek tere, Blaha Lujza tér, Keleti Railway Station etc. and smaller ticket selling points at bigger stops.  All ticket types are available.

To buy your tickets look for these purple machines.

Ticket Vending Machines – These purple machines can be found at the busier bus and tram stops and all metro stations. They work with Hungarian Forints or credit cards, but sometimes only one of the two options is available. You can choose from several languages, among them English, Spanish, German or French.  All ticket types are available.

On the vehicles themselves – On certain buses and trams in the city center you can buy single tickets from the drivers.  They are a tiny bit more expensive than the ones bought in advance (450 HUF instead of 350 HUF), and you can only pay with Hungarian Forints. Try to have the exact amount, they usually can’t brake up big banknotes. Communication in English can be challenging sometimes. Only single tickets are available.

Retailers – Some hotels and small kiosks at the metro stops sell single tickets. Only single tickets are available.

Your travel pass is valid even on the Danube, but only on weekdays.

Validity of tickets

Single tickets and travel cards are valid within the administrative boundaries of Budapest for all metro, bus, trolleybus and tram services. They are also valid for the cog-wheel railway (also known as tram 60) and for stops of the suburban railway within Budapest. Outside of Budapest (eg. going to Szentendre) you need an extension ticket for the suburban railway. However, normal tickets and travel cards cannot be used on the Buda Castle Funicular, the Chairlift in the Buda Hills, and bus 100E  (which is a direct bus line from the city center to the airport).

On the boats run by the public transportation company you can use your passes on workdays , but the normal single ticket is not valid. On the weekend and national holidays everybody must buy a boat ticket that costs 750 forints, none of the passes are valid.

A single ticket is valid for one ride on buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Transfer with the same single ticket is only possible between two metro lines. Otherwise, you need to validate a new ticket every time you transfer from one vehicle to another.

Travel cards are valid for an unlimited number of rides within Budapest during the period indicated on them. The validity period starts either at the time of purchase or on any date and time in the future.

For the 100E airport bus you need a special ticket

How to validate a single ticket?

On buses, trams, and trolleybuses you can find orange or red validation machines on the vehicles themselves . Insert the ticket into the machine with the numbered side first and facing upwards. The machine stamps your ticket automatically. On some trams, you will find red machines instead of the orange ones. Those old-school machines work manually. Insert the ticket at the top of the machine (the numbered side first and facing you). Then pull the black part of the machine with the ticket inside towards yourself and it punches a hole in the ticket.

In case of the metro, you will find the orange machines at each metro entrance.   Remember to validate a new single ticket every time you board a bus, a tram, or a trolleybus or whenever you enter the area of the metro.

Insert your ticket with the numbered part first facing upwards.

What happens if I do not have a valid ticket?

In Budapest, you will not find gates that only let you through with a valid ticket. However, ticket inspectors can ask for your tickets on the whole territory of the transportation network. If you have a valid ticket, the chances are high that you will never encounter them. But if you forget to validate, you can be sure that they will appear out of nowhere. The penalty fee is 8000 HUF on the spot , so you had better validate your single tickets. Or buy a travel card and then you do not have to worry about validation.

The lower station of the Buda hills chairlift – you can buy your ticket in the building from a machine

How do I find my way around?

The Budapest Public Transportation Center has a mobile app called BKK Futár (for  Android and  iOS ).   Use it to get from A to B if you have data on your phone. It is easy to set the language to English, just look for the Settings sign  (“Beállítások”)  at the bottom of the menu and choose the first option for Languages (“Nyelv”) . Google Maps also has useful and up-to-date information on timetables and routes.

Now you are all set to hit the streets in Budapest! With public transportation, you can cover more if you have limited time in our capital. It can also make our Budapest101 walking tours more efficient – and more fun! Besides the ordinary vehicles, Budapest also offers some unique means of transportation as well. Learn more about them on a Budapest101 transportation tour .

Veronika is a guide and tour organiser of Budapest 101

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Disney® Visa® Cardmembers: Save Up to 30% on Select Stays at a Disneyland Resort Hotel

View All Offers & Discounts

Offer Details

Valid Travel Dates Sunday to Thursday nights from June 10 through September 26; travel must be completed by September 27, 2024.

Included in This Offer Save up to 20% on Standard room types and up to 30% on Premium room types at these Disneyland Resort hotels:

• Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
• Disneyland Hotel
• The Villas at Disneyland Hotel

Important Details

• Savings are based on the nondiscounted price for the same room stay at the same hotel and is valid for Sunday through Thursday nights from June 10 through September 26, 2024.
• Book now through September 12, 2024; travel must be completed by September 27, 2024.
• Not valid for select Concierge rooms, Signature or Premium suites, 2- or 3-Bedroom Villas, or at certain hotels.
• Must mention the offer when booking and use a valid Disney Visa® Card or Disney Rewards® Redemption Card to pay the deposit. If a valid Disney Visa Card or Disney Rewards® Redemption Card is not used, the nondiscounted room price will be charged for the duration of the stay.
• Disney Visa Cardmember who used their card to pay the deposit must stay in a room on the reservation.
• Not valid on previously booked rooms and offer is nontransferable.
• Advance reservations are required.
• Subject to availability as the number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited.
• Excludes applicable fees and taxes.
• Limit of 2 rooms per reservation and occupancy restrictions apply per room.
• Additional per-adult charges apply if more than 2 adults per room.
• Not valid in combination with any other hotel discounts or offers.
• Subject to restrictions, change or cancellation without notice.
• Separate theme park admission and theme park reservation for the same date and the same park are required to enter a theme park. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed, and a hotel reservation does not guarantee theme park reservations.
• View Disneyland Updates for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland Resort.

To book by phone, call (800) 292-9910 to speak with a vacation-planning expert. Please be sure to mention this Disney Visa Cardmember offer and use your Disney Visa Card to place your deposit to take advantage of special rates. Guests younger than 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.

• INSTITUTIONS

SHANGHAI, May 22 -- Shanghai has released Shanghai Pass, a multipurpose prepaid travel card, to facilitate easy payment by inbound travelers and other visitors not in favor of mobile payment.

With a maximum balance of 1,000 yuan (about 140 U.S. dollars), Shanghai Pass can be applied at various scenes such as public transportation, cultural and tourism venues, and shopping malls, according to the Shanghai City Tour Card Development Co., Ltd., which issues the card.

The card can be purchased and recharged at the airports of Hongqiao and Pudong, and major subway stations such as the People's Square Station. The card can be used in buses, subways, taxis, ferries, and tourist attractions such as Shanghai Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Museum and Shanghai Wild Animal Park, the company said.

Cardholders can have the remaining balance refunded when they leave the city.

They can also use the card for public transportation in some other cities, including Beijing, Guangzhou, Xi'an, Qingdao, Chengdu, Sanya and Xiamen, the company said.

Chinese authorities have taken an array of measures to enhance the convenience of tourism for inbound visitors, as foreigners who primarily rely on bank cards and cash may find obstacles and challenges with cashless or non-card mobile payments, which is currently the predominant method of payment in China.

Shanghai received 1.27 million inbound tourists in the first quarter of this year, up 250 percent year on year, and is expected to receive about 5 million inbound tourists for the whole year, according to the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism.

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Will the new TWIC NexGen card meet ID requirements to board a plane? Will TSA accept my expired TWIC card to board a plane if I have not received my new NexGen card?

Yes. The new card meets TSA security standards for valid identification, and a valid unexpired TWIC can be used to board planes. TSA officers are trained to recognize the TWIC as an acceptable form of identification.

Note: Certain airports, facilities or vessels may request additional information to verify one’s personal identity. Please see the access requirements of individual authorities, owners or operators for additional information

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Find the answers to your questions in one of these categories:

General Questions

Children (under 16), social security number requirement, u.s. passport card, 1. i'm renewing my passport. do i get the old one back will i get a new passport number.

Yes. In most cases when you renew by mail, we will return the old passport to you. The old passport may not arrive for up to 8 weeks after you receive your new passport. 

If your old passport has a valid visa, you can still use the valid visa. You must travel with both your new and old passport in this case.

The number on your new passport will be different from the number on your previous passport.

If you have Global Entry, update your  Trusted Traveler account  with your new passport information. 

2. My address changed. Do I need to update my passport?

Do not contact us if your address changed  after  you receive your passport.

Contact us only if your mailing address changed while you are waiting for your passport.

Call us at  1-877-487-2778  (or  1-888-874-7793  if you are deaf or hard of hearing)

3. I already applied and need my passport sooner than I thought. What can I do?

Call us at  1-877-487-2778  (or  1-888-874-7793  if you are deaf or hard of hearing). You’ll need either your application number or your last name and date of birth.

• Get expedited service for $60. 
• Get 1-2 day delivery of your completed passport book for $19.53. One-to-two day delivery is not available for passport cards. We only send cards via First Class Mail.

4. Do I need 6 months of validity on my passport to travel?

If you are age 16 or older, your passport is valid for 10 years. Your child's passport (age 0-15) is valid for 5 years.

Some countries require that your passport have at least six months of validity beyond the dates of your trip . Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met. 

Check our  Country Information page  to learn how long your passport needs to be valid.  

To learn about returning to the United States after your travel, visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's website .

5. How long does it take to get a passport?

Go to our  Processing Times page  for more information.

6. How will you send my passport and supporting documents?

You will get multiple mailings. The number of mailings depends on what document(s) you asked for.

Passport Book : You may get your new passport and citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We will return the passport book using a trackable delivery service.

Passport Card : You may get your new passport card and your citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We only send the passport card via First Class Mail. We do not send cards using 1-2 day delivery services.

Both a Passport Book and Card : You may get three separate mailings:

• New passport book
• New passport card
• Citizenship documents

Contacting Us : If you have been waiting more than 8 weeks for your documents, call us at  1-877-487-2778  to report that you have not received your documents. 

If you want us to reimburse you for a lost supporting document, you must contact us within 90 days of the date which we mailed your passport. You will also need to provide a receipt to show the cost of replacing the document. 

7. I am recently married or divorced. How do I change my name on my passport?

For more information, go to our  Change or Correct a Passport page . 

If you are changing your name within one year of the date your passport was issued, complete  Form DS-5504 .   

If you are changing your name over a year after your passport was issued, complete  Form DS-82 . 

8. I am traveling very soon. How do I get a passport quickly?

Go to our  Get My Passport Fast page  for information on expediting your application, or making an appointment at a passport agency or center.

If you have a life-or-death emergency, go to our  Life-or-Death Emergency page  to see if you qualify for an appointment. 

9. How much does a U.S. passport cost?

The cost of your passport depends on how fast you need it, and if you want a passport book, passport card, or both documents.

Go to our  Passport Fees page  for more information on how much to pay, and what forms of payment we accept. 

10. How do I get the status of my application?

Enroll in emails using the  Online Passport Status System . Learn about what each update means on our Application Status webpage .

11. My passport has already been issued and mailed to me, but I have not received it. What do I do?

If you have waited over two weeks since we mailed your passport, call us at  1-877-487-2778  (or  1-888-874-7793  if you are deaf or hard of hearing).

We will help you complete a special form (known as the  DS-86 form ) which is a signed statement that you didn't receive your U.S. passport.

You must complete the DS-86 form within 90 days of the date we issued your passport. After 90 days, you must reapply and pay all fees, by law.

12. My passport has been damaged. Can I continue to use this passport?

If your passport is damaged, apply for a new passport. Replace your passport if there is:

• Water damage
• A significant tear
• Unofficial markings on the data page
• Missing visa pages (torn out)
• A hole punch

Do not replace your passport if there is normal "wear and tear" which includes:

• The bend of a passport after being carried in your back pocket
• Fanning of the visa pages after lots of opening and closing

If you need to replace your damaged passport, submit:

• The damaged passport;
• A signed statement explaining the damaged or mutilated condition of your passport book and/or card; 
• Form DS-11  (including supporting documents, photo, and fees)

13. How many blank visa pages do I need, and can I add pages to my passport book?

Some countries require that your passport has two to four blank visa or stamp pages. Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met.

You cannot add visa pages to a current passport book. If you need more pages, you must renew your passport book.

On your passport form, select the option for a "large book" so you can get a passport book with extra visa pages. 

14. Can I use a passport to fly in the United States?

Yes. The U.S. passport book and passport card are alternatives to a state-issued REAL ID and can be used for domestic flights. 

According to the  Department for Homeland Security , residents of all states will soon have to use a Real ID compliant ID for domestic air travel. Not sure if your state’s driver’s license and ID are Real ID compliant? Check  your state’s status . For a complete list of acceptable forms of identification to fly in the United States, visit REAL ID . 

15. Can I get a second passport book?

Yes, but only if you have a valid U.S. passport book and you meet several  requirements. Learn more to see if you are eligible .

16. I got a letter in the mail or an email about my application. What should I do?

We sent you a letter or email because we need more information from you to continue processing your passport. Go to our  Respond to a Letter or Email page  for more information.

17. Who should have a valid U.S. passport?

You should have a U.S. passport if: 

• You have family living or traveling abroad,
• You are thinking about a vacation abroad, or
• You have a job that could require international travel.

18. My new passport book has a QR code sticker on the back. What is it for?

These stickers give you easy access to important passport and travel information on our website.

• If you scan the code using your mobile device, it will link you to our website. If you do not wish to scan the code, you can also access the information on our  After I Get My Passport page .
• Is the same on all passport books
• Does not have personally identifiable information, and
• Does not change the way border officials and airlines review your document.
• We are not placing QR code stickers on passport cards. 
• You may remove the sticker. We recommend keeping it on so you have quick and easy access to our website.

2. What should I do if one parent or guardian cannot apply in person?

• Both parents or guardians must approve that we can issue a passport to a child, and go with the child to apply in person.
• If one or both parents or guardians cannot apply in person with their child, you will need to show more documents.

Important : Submit  Form DS-3053  and other notarized statements within three months of signing them.

3. Can I renew my child's passport?

No. You cannot renew your child's passport using Form DS-82. If your child is under age 16 , your child must appear in person with you and the child's other parent or guardian. You must submit your child's Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility, or a passport agency or center.

1. Do I have to provide my social security number on my passport application?

Yes. Federal law requires that you provide your social security number, if you have one.

If you do not provide the information, your passport application will be delayed and your application may be denied. You will also be subject to a $500 penalty enforced by the Internal Revenue Service. ( 26 U.S.C. 6039E ). 

Contact the  Social Security Administration  for information about getting a social security number and card.

2. What if I or my children don’t have a social security number?

Submit a signed and dated statement. You must include the statement with the application, and include this text:

“I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct:  I (or my child) have never been issued a social security number by the Social Security Administration.”

1. What is the passport card?

The U.S. passport card is a wallet-sized, plastic passport that has no visa pages. The card is proof of U.S. citizenship and identity, and has the same length of validity as the passport book.  

The card is for U.S. citizens who travel by land and sea from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and Caribbean countries.

The card is  not valid for international travel by air  and is cheaper than the passport book.

You can apply for either the book or card, or both documents.  

2. How do I apply for a passport card?

You can apply for both a passport book and passport card at the same time using the same application. When completing your form, let us know if you would like to apply for one or both documents. 

If you're renewing both your passport book and passport card, you must provide both documents. If you can submit a passport book, but you lost your passport card, you cannot renew the passport card using Form DS-82.

3. Can I get a passport card if I already have a passport book?

Yes. If you already have a passport book and   you are eligible to use Form DS-82, you may apply for a passport card by mail as a "renewal" even if it is your first passport card.

You can do the same and apply for your first passport book by mail as a "renewal" if you already have a passport card.

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