One of the city’s main attractions is the Budapest Metro. It is the second oldest metro system in the world, and its iconic Line 1 has even been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Helpful Information for Your Visit
When entering the metro, you’ll notice there are no turnstiles; if you’re using a single-use ticket, you’ll need to validate it at the designated machines.
Please note, a single-journey ticket does not allow transfers between lines, meaning you’ll need a separate ticket if you change lines. This is particularly important to remember when heading back to your hotel in central Budapest.
For stays longer than a day, the best option is to get the well-known Budapest Card, which gives you unlimited access to public transportation and entry to over 30 attractions and tours. Get your discounted Budapest Card here.
Let’s take a closer look at the main lines and important stops on the Budapest metro map:
- Line 1: This line covers Budapest’s main tourist attractions, with stops at popular spots like the Budapest Opera, Heroes’ Square, and the Chain Bridge.
- Line 2: Running between Buda and Pest, this line’s notable stations include stops at the Parliament, the Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Great Synagogue.
- Line 3: For those coming from the airport by bus, you’ll likely connect with this line to reach your hotel.
- Line 4: Opened in 2014, this line connects the Kelenföld and Budapest-Keleti train stations. Known for its contemporary design, you can even take a guided walking tour to explore its modern artwork and learn about the line’s history.
These are Budapest’s metro lines, and with the map, we hope you’ll be able to navigate the system even more smoothly!
Budapest Metro Operating Hours
The metro operates from 4:30 AM until 11:00 PM.
As you can see, Budapest’s metro hours are consistent, though it closes relatively early compared to the nightlife in Spain.
And remember, to simplify your travel when arriving in or leaving Budapest, the shared airport shuttle bus is a convenient and efficient option to make your travel experience as smooth as possible from the moment you arrive.
Interesting Facts
The original plan was to complete this metro line by 1955, but due to several circumstances, it wasn’t finished until 1963.
Meanwhile, Line 2 was inaugurated in 1970 to connect the city’s main train stations.
Line 3 crosses the river, making it the best route to reach the Buda side of the city.
A long-standing debate surrounded whether construction might damage Budapest’s famous thermal waters and how to fund the Budapest metro. Ultimately, construction took over 40 years.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a more unique and fun way to explore the city beyond the metro, consider taking a segway tour like this one – we had a fantastic time seeing Budapest’s sites on two wheels!
We hope this article has helped you learn more about the history of one of the world’s oldest metro systems, which still provides excellent service to Budapest’s citizens, who are proud of their city’s early decision to invest in this efficient public transport system as Budapest moved toward the 20th century.