Getting around Budapest

By public transport

Budapest has a remarkably efficient public transport system, which makes navigating the city cheap and easy even for the most inexperienced of tourists. The yellow (M1), red (M2) and blue (M3) lines of the metro fork out from the Danube to cover the key points of Pest, whilst you can follow the red M2 metro line under the river and emerge amongst the green hills of Buda. At the moment the HEV suburban railway joins up the gaps the metro leaves behind, although a new line (M4) is currently under construction which will link Kelvin Ter station in the south, the main train terminal and outlying surburbs, expected to be operational in 2010.

If you prefer getting around by bus, then 153 routes should get you wherever you want to go, whilst no city can truly call itself European without a few tram lines lieing about. Whichever method of public transport you are travelling by you can purchase tickets at kiosks, a single for 300 or a one day travel card for 1,550 forints. You can also buy a 3 day pass for 3,850 forints, a 7 day pass for 4,600 or a book of 10 single tickets, valid on the bus, tram and metro, for 2,700 forints. For more info on Budapest public transport check out www.bkv.hu.

By taxi

Taxi drivers in Budapest are notorious for ripping off tourists, and although recent years have seen an increase in scruples and professional practices it's worth getting a rough price fix before you step in the cab - and it's worth counting your change too. Calling a cab can be up to 15 percent cheaper than hailing one on the street, although you may need your Hungarian friend to help you. City Taxi have English speaking operators and enjoy the best reputation amongst taxi firms in Budapest.

By car

Well the advantage of getting around Budapest by car, as any Fleetwood Mac fan will tell you, is that you can 'Go Your Own Way'. The disadvantages are the near-death experiences you will encounter en route, thanks to Grand Theft Auto style manoeuvres of your fellow motorists. Still, if you're prepared to drive defensively a car could prove invaluable for getting out to the likes of Eger and Lake Balaton, although within town itself it's cheaper and easier to use public transport or taxis.