Is There Uber in Budapest: A Complete Guide to Transport

Is there Uber in Budapest? Uber is not currently available in Budapest, Hungary. The service was discontinued in 2016 following regulatory challenges and opposition from local taxi drivers. However, Budapest, known for its stunning architecture and rich history, offers a range of alternative transportation options, including efficient public transit, reliable taxi services, and other ride-sharing apps, ensuring visitors can navigate the city with ease.

Budapest, the enchanting capital of Hungary, is a city that seamlessly blends historical grandeur with a vibrant contemporary lifestyle. While the absence of Uber might come as a surprise to some travelers, the city is well-equipped with various transportation methods to explore its famous thermal baths, historic sites, and bustling nightlife.

Is There Uber in Budapest?

As of now, Uber is not operational in Budapest. The service was available until 2016, but due to legal challenges and opposition from local taxi unions, it ceased its operations in the city. This decision was largely influenced by regulations imposed by the Hungarian government that affected the functioning of ride-sharing services.

Impact of Uber’s Absence

• Popularity: Before its suspension, Uber was gaining popularity in Budapest, particularly among the younger population and tourists for its convenience and competitive pricing.
• Alternatives: The absence of Uber has led to the emergence of other ride-sharing and taxi apps, which have somewhat filled the gap left by Uber.

Are There Other Ride-sharing Apps Like in Budapest?

Traditional ride share services are not allowed in Budapest. However, some ridesharing companies operate here, but only to connect riders with licensed taxis. Bolt is one example. Although you will still be connected to a licensed and metered taxi, you will get some of the benefits and convieniences of a reliable and user friendly app and interface, making navigating a new city a little easier.

Bolt

Bolt (formerly known as Taxify) is a popular choice in Budapest, providing taxi hailing capability in Budapest. It’s known for competitive pricing and good coverage across the city. Bolt offers various service levels, including standard rides, premium options, and larger vehicles for groups.

• Download Bolt
• Service Overview: Bolt offers a user-friendly app experience although users will be connected to a licensed taxi.
• Pricing: The fare consists of a base fare plus a per kilometer and per minute rate. Surge pricing may apply during high-demand periods.
• Example Fares:
  • Budapest Airport to City Center: Approximately HUF 6,500 – 8,000 (USD 20 – 25)
  • Deák Ferenc tér to Heroes’ Square: About HUF 1,200 – 1,500 (USD 3.70 – 4.60)
• Rider Tips:
  • Always check the estimated fare before booking.
  • Look out for promotions and discounts, especially if you’re a first-time user.

Other Information About Rideshare in Budapest

• Payment Options: Most ride-sharing apps in Budapest accept various payment methods, including credit/debit cards and sometimes cash.
• Language Options: The apps usually offer multiple language settings, making it easier for international travelers.
• Customer Support: These services provide customer support, which can be handy in case of any issues or lost items.

Taxis in Budapest

Taxis play a crucial role in the city’s mobility. Here’s a detailed look at what you need to know about using taxis in Budapest.

Are Taxis Cheap in Budapest?

Compared to other major European cities, taxis in Budapest are relatively affordable. Prices are regulated by the city, ensuring consistent and fair rates for passengers. The cost of a taxi ride in Budapest is generally lower than in Western European capitals, but slightly higher than in some other Eastern European cities.

How Much Do Taxis Cost in Budapest?

Taxis in Budapest operate with a clear tariff system. The fares include a base fee, plus charges per kilometer and per minute during the journey. The base fare is around 700 HUF (approximately 2 USD), with a per-kilometer charge of about 300 HUF (around 0.85 USD) and a waiting fee of 75 HUF (about 0.20 USD) per minute. For example, a typical fare from Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport to the city center would cost around 6,500-9,000 HUF (18-25 USD), depending on traffic conditions.

Do Taxis Accept Credit Cards in Budapest?

Most taxis in Budapest accept credit cards, but it’s always advisable to confirm with the driver before starting your journey. Some taxis might prefer cash payments, so having some Hungarian Forints on hand is a good idea.

How Do I Catch a Taxi in Budapest?

You can hail a taxi directly on the streets of Budapest, but it’s often safer and more reliable to order one through a taxi company or a taxi app. Not only does this ensure a licensed and metered taxi, but it also provides a record of your journey. Some well-known taxi companies in Budapest include Főtaxi, City Taxi, and TaxiPlus.

Are There Taxi Apps in Budapest?

In addition to traditional taxi services, some companies offer modern taxi apps.

Főtaxi

This is Budapest’s oldest and one of the most reliable taxi companies. Főtaxi has its own app, which allows users to book rides easily. It’s a traditional taxi service but modernized with app-based booking.

• Download Főtaxi
• Service Overview: Főtaxi, known for its reliability, is Budapest’s oldest taxi company. Their app allows for easy booking and tracking of your taxi.
• Pricing: Fares are metered, but the app provides an estimated cost before you book.
• Example Fares:
  • Budapest Airport to City Center: Approximately HUF 7,000 – 9,000 (USD 21 – 27)
  • Széll Kálmán tér to Budapest Zoo: Around HUF 1,500 – 2,000 (USD 4.60 – 6.10)
• Rider Tips:
  • Főtaxi is especially recommended for airport trips due to their fixed rate offer for airport-city transfers.
  • The app allows you to choose different types of cars based on your needs.

City Taxi

Another established taxi service in Budapest, City Taxi also provides an app-based service for ease of booking. Known for their reliable service, they are a good alternative to traditional ride-sharing apps.

• Download City Taxi
• Service Overview: City Taxi offers a reliable service with a straightforward app for booking. They have a good reputation for professionalism.
• Pricing: The pricing is metered, similar to Főtaxi, with the app providing an estimate.
• Example Fares:
  • Keleti Railway Station to Margaret Island: Roughly HUF 1,800 – 2,500 (USD 5.50 – 7.60)
  • Gellért Hill to Parliament: About HUF 1,000 – 1,400 (USD 3.00 – 4.30)
• Rider Tips:
  • Ideal for shorter city trips due to competitive metered rates.
  • Their app is user-friendly and allows for quick bookings.

🏡 Looking for accommodation? Get the best deal on your favorite platform.

Are Taxis Safe in Budapest?

Taxis in Budapest are generally safe, especially when booked through reputable companies or apps. However, it’s always important to ensure you’re getting into a licensed taxi, recognizable by its yellow color and clear taxi signage.

Common Taxi Scams in Budapest

While most taxi drivers in Budapest are honest, visitors should be aware of common scams such as overcharging or taking unnecessarily long routes.

list of common taxi scams in Budapest and ways to avoid them:

Overcharging

• Ensure the meter is running as soon as your journey starts.
• Use well-known taxi companies or apps with transparent rates.

Taking Longer Routes

• Have a basic sense of your route and monitor it using a GPS app.
• Suggest the driver take a more direct route if you notice deviations.

Unofficial Taxis

• Use only official taxis, identifiable by their yellow color, roof light, company logo, and license number.
• Avoid poorly marked or maintained vehicles.

Refusing to Give Change

• Carry small denominations to pay the exact fare or close to it.
• Insist on waiting for change or offer to get it from a nearby store.

Scams at Tourist Spots and the Airport

• Avoid accepting rides from drivers who approach you at tourist spots or the airport.
• Use official taxi stands or book through a reputable app.

Additional Tips

• Note the taxi’s registration number when you get in.
• Use apps like Bolt for secure and scam-free rides.
• Report any scams to local authorities or your hotel.

Do I Need to Tip Taxi Drivers in Budapest?

Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. A tip of around 10% of the fare is customary if you’re satisfied with the ride.

Other Ways to Get Around Budapest

Budapest is well-served by an efficient public transportation system. Here’s an in-depth look at the various modes of transport available in the city:

Public Buses

• How to Use: Budapest’s extensive bus network covers the entire city. Buses are frequent and reliable, especially on major routes. You can find bus stops easily, marked with a “Bus” sign.
• Cost: A single ticket costs 350 HUF (approx. 1 USD). A block of 10 tickets is 3,000 HUF (approx. 8.50 USD). There are also various travel cards available for unlimited travel.
• Further Info: For routes and schedules, visit the Budapest Public Transport website.

Trams

• How to Use: Trams are a scenic way to explore Budapest. The city’s tram network is one of Europe’s largest. Major routes like Tram 2 offer stunning views of the Danube and city landmarks.
• Cost: Tram tickets are the same as bus tickets, with a single journey costing 350 HUF.
• Further Info: Check the BKK website for detailed tram routes and timetables.

Metro

• How to Use: Budapest’s metro system consists of four lines, each distinguished by different colors. It’s the fastest way to travel long distances in the city. Stations are well-signed, making navigation easy.
• Cost: Metro tickets are also 350 HUF per journey. Day passes and multi-day travel cards offer better value if you plan extensive travel.
• Further Info: For metro maps and schedules, visit BKK’s metro page.

HEV Suburban Railway

• How to Use: The HEV connects Budapest to nearby suburban areas. It’s ideal for visiting destinations like Szentendre.
• Cost: Fares depend on the distance traveled, starting at around 350 HUF for short trips. Tickets must be purchased before boarding.
• Further Info: Visit BKK’s HEV page for more information.

Biking

• How to Use: Budapest is increasingly bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and paths. The city’s bike-sharing service, MOL Bubi, offers a practical way to rent bicycles.
• Cost: Short-term subscriptions for MOL Bubi start from 500 HUF (approx. 1.40 USD) for 24 hours. Individual rides are free for the first 30 minutes.
• Further Info: Visit the MOL Bubi website for details on bike rental and routes.

Walking

• How to Use: Budapest is a walkable city, especially in areas like the Castle District and along the Danube River. Walking tours are available for those interested in guided experiences.
• Cost: Free, unless you opt for a paid walking tour.
• Further Info: For self-guided walking tour maps, visit Budapest Info.

River Ferries

• How to Use: The Danube river ferries are not only functional but offer a unique way to see the city. They connect several points along the river.
• Cost: A single ferry ticket costs around 750 HUF (approx. 2 USD).
• Further Info: Timetables and route information can be found on the BKK website.

Getting from Budapest Airport to the City Center

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, located about 16 kilometers southeast of the city center, offers various transport options for reaching downtown Budapest. Here’s an overview of the available services:

Private Transfer

• How to Use: Private transfer services can be pre-booked online. Drivers usually meet passengers in the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name.
• Cost: Prices vary but generally start from around 7,000 HUF (approx. 20 USD) for a standard car.
• Further Info: Websites like BudTransfer and Viator offer online booking options.

Taxi

• How to Use: Official airport taxis are available at the designated taxi stand outside the arrivals area. Főtaxi is the official taxi company operating at the airport.
• Cost: The average fare to the city center is between 6,500 and 9,000 HUF (18-25 USD), depending on the exact destination and traffic conditions.
• Further Info: More about Főtaxi can be found on their website or download the app.

Public Bus (100E)

• How to Use: The 100E airport bus provides direct service to the city center, stopping at key locations including Deák Ferenc tér.
• Cost: A special airport shuttle bus ticket costs 900 HUF (approx. 2.50 USD). Regular Budapest transport passes are not valid on this service.
• Further Info: Timetable and route details are available on the BKK website.

Minibus Shuttle

• How to Use: Shared minibus services like miniBUD offer door-to-door service from the airport to your hotel or any address in Budapest.
• Cost: Prices depend on the destination and number of passengers, starting at around 2,900 HUF (approx. 8 USD) per person.
• Further Info: Bookings can be made on the miniBUD website.

Private Car Rental

• How to Use: Car rental agencies are located at the airport. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Cost: Rates vary by company and type of vehicle but expect to pay from 15,000 HUF (approx. 42 USD) per day for a small car.
• Further Info: Major rental companies like Sixt, Europcar, and Avis have services at the airport.

🚗 Considering renting a car? Check out DiscoverCars to search, compare, and save up to 70% on car rentals!

Other Options

• Train: There’s no direct train service from the airport to the city center. However, travelers can take a bus to the nearby Ferihegy train station and then catch a train to Nyugati railway station in central Budapest.

Is There Wifi in The Budapest Airport?

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport offers free WiFi, available throughout its terminals. This service is beneficial for passengers, particularly for those needing to arrange transportation upon arrival. Here’s a concise overview:

• Free WiFi: Available across the airport terminals.
• Access: Connect by selecting “BUD Free WiFi” or a similar network.
• Login: A simple login process, usually just accepting terms and conditions.
• Speed: Adequate for basic browsing and communication.
• Premium Options: Available for a fee, offering faster speeds.
• Location: Accessible in public areas like departure and arrival halls.

The availability of WiFi at the airport can be especially helpful for travelers looking to book ride-sharing services, check public transport schedules, or communicate with pre-arranged transportation upon their arrival in Budapest.

For the latest information or specific inquiries, refer to the Budapest Airport official website.

Traveling Around Hungary and Europe

Getting around Hungary and exploring the wider European region offers a variety of transportation options, each with its own advantages. Here’s a detailed look at the ways you can travel both within Hungary and across Europe:

Within Hungary

Trains

• Usage: The Hungarian State Railways (MÁV) operates most of the train services. Trains are a reliable way to travel between major cities and towns.
• Cost: Prices are reasonable, with a ticket from Budapest to Szeged, for example, costing around 3,000-4,500 HUF (10-15 USD).
• Further Info: Check schedules and book tickets on the MÁV website.

Buses

• Usage: Buses connect cities and towns not served by trains. They are especially useful for reaching rural areas.
• Cost: Bus fares are comparable to train fares, sometimes cheaper for shorter distances.
• Further Info: Volánbusz operates most of the long-distance bus services.

Car Rentals

• Usage: Renting a car offers flexibility, especially for exploring the countryside. Major rental companies have outlets in cities and airports.
• Cost: Daily rental rates start at around 12,000 HUF (35 USD), varying based on the car model and rental duration.
• Further Info: International rental services like Europcar and Sixt operate in Hungary.

🚗 Considering renting a car? Check out DiscoverCars to search, compare, and save up to 70% on car rentals!

Domestic Flights

• Usage: Limited, mostly due to the small size of the country and the efficiency of land transport.
• Cost: Typically higher than other modes of transportation.
• Further Info: Wizz Air and Ryanair offer some domestic flights.

Around Europe

International Trains

• Usage: Trains are a popular choice for travel between European cities. High-speed rail networks like the TGV, ICE, and Eurostar connect major cities efficiently.
• Cost: Varies widely; early booking often secures better deals.
• Further Info: The Eurail Pass offers flexible train travel across multiple countries.

Long-Distance Buses

• Usage: Companies like FlixBus and Eurolines offer extensive routes across Europe, often at lower prices than trains.
• Cost: Generally cheaper than trains, with numerous discounts available.

🚌🚆 To search and compare intercity buses, trains, and ferries use Bookaway ⛴️🚂

Flights

• Usage: For longer distances or when time is limited, flights are the best option. Numerous budget airlines, like Ryanair and EasyJet, offer affordable connections.
• Cost: Prices vary; budget airlines offer competitive rates, especially when booked in advance.
• Further Info: Use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner to find the best deals.

Car Rentals

• Usage: Ideal for exploring at your own pace. Cross-border travel is generally permitted within the EU.
• Cost: Varies; remember to consider tolls and fuel costs.
• Further Info: Most major rental companies operate across Europe.

🚗 Considering renting a car? Check out DiscoverCars to search, compare, and save up to 70% on car rentals!

Cycling

• Usage: Europe is extremely bike-friendly, with well-marked bike paths in many regions.
• Cost: Free if you have your own bike; rentals vary by location.
• Further Info: EuroVelo offers information on long-distance cycling routes across Europe.

Ferries

• Usage: Along Europes Rivers, like the Danube which flows through Budapest and its various seas and lakes, Ferries offer a unique way to navigate Europe.
• Cost: Varies based on distance and type of accommodation (seat vs. cabin).
• Further Info: Websites like Direct Ferries provide schedules and booking options.

Traveling around Hungary and Europe offers something for every type of traveler, whether you prefer the scenic routes of train travel, the flexibility of driving, or the speed of flying. Each mode of transport provides a unique way to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of Europe.

Is Uber Eats In Budapest? Food Delivery Options in Budapest

Uber Eats is not available in Budapest however there are a number of alternatives. Here’s an overview of the available options:

Wolt

• How to Use: Wolt is another popular food delivery service in Budapest. It offers a user-friendly app for ordering food from a wide selection of local restaurants.
• Further Info: You can download the Wolt app or visit their website to place an order.

Bolt Food

• How to Use: Bolt, primarily known for its ride-sharing service, also offers food delivery in Budapest. The Bolt Food app lets users order from various restaurants across the city.
• Further Info: More information and app download links are available on the Bolt Food website.

NetPincér

• How to Use: NetPincér is one of Hungary’s most well-established food delivery services. It features a wide range of restaurants and fast food options.
• Further Info: Visit the NetPincér website or download their app to start ordering.

Local Restaurant Delivery Services

• How to Use: Many local restaurants in Budapest offer their own delivery services. These can often be found on the restaurant’s website or by calling them directly.
• Cost: Delivery fees vary, but many restaurants offer free delivery within a certain distance.

These delivery services provide a convenient way to sample Budapest’s diverse culinary offerings, whether you’re craving traditional Hungarian dishes, international cuisine, or just a quick snack.

Final Thoughts on Uber in Budapest

In conclusion, navigating Budapest’s transportation landscape reveals a city that effortlessly blends traditional charm with modern conveniences. While Uber itself made a significant impact during its presence, its departure has paved the way for a variety of other transportation services that efficiently cater to both locals and visitors alike.

The alternatives to Uber, such as Bolt and other local ride-sharing services, have stepped up admirably, offering similar levels of convenience and reliability. These services, along with the city’s robust public transport system, taxis, and unique options like river ferries, ensure that getting around Budapest is both easy and enjoyable.

The city’s transport system is a reflection of Budapest itself: diverse, accessible, and ready to meet the needs of its varied visitors, from those on a quick business trip to leisure travelers soaking in the rich history and culture of this magnificent Hungarian capital.

Whether it’s a leisurely cruise along the Danube, a quick ride to a business meeting, or a scenic tram journey across the city, Budapest’s transport services highlight the city’s fusion of efficiency and charm. This blend ensures that whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to Budapest, the journey around this enchanting city is as memorable as the destination itself.

*

Want to know is there Uber in other European cities?