Offering personalised meet-and-greet, fast-track security, private transfers, and exclusive lounge access for VIP travellers and business clients.
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport serves as Hungary’s main air gateway. Located about 16 kilometers from the city center, it handles flights across Europe and beyond. The airport features modern terminals with shops, cafes and loungers for travelers. Public transport connects it to downtown Budapest in under thirty minutes via metro or bus routes. Many airlines use this hub for both short and long-haul journeys. The facility includes baggage services, currency exchange booths and information desks to assist visitors arriving by plane.
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Hungarian Forint (HUF) £1 ≈ HUF 437.70 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payment is widely accepted in Hungary, especially in urban areas, though smaller vendors may prefer cash.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary in Hungary, with 10-15% added in restaurants if not included. Small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff are also common. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not permitted in Hungary, except in designated areas or during special events. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces and transport. Designated smoking areas are available. |
| Hungarian Revolution Day (March) |
Public events and closures occur, especially in Budapest. |
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| Saint Stephen's Day (August) |
Expect fireworks and celebrations across Hungary. |
| Christmas (December) |
Festive markets and holiday closures are common. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Bolt, Főtaxi, Uber |
| Other: | Hungary is known for its thermal baths, historical architecture, and vibrant cultural festivals. Public transport is efficient in cities. |
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport has evolved from a modest airfield into a modern airport with improved infrastructure, including a recently expanded terminal. It handles over 17 million passengers annually, connecting Hungary to Europe and beyond with a mix of full-service and low-cost carriers.
The airport features a coherent terminal layout that is easy to navigate, with good signage and quite efficient security processing on most days. A variety of dining and shopping options, including local specialties and international brands, are available in its terminals.
That said, during peak summer travel or holiday times, the airport can feel congested, with queues extending at passport control and VAT refund counters. Waiting areas sometimes lack seating capacity, which can be inconvenient on busy days.
Overall, the airport offers a pleasant and functional experience, especially for first-time visitors to Budapest and serves as a fitting introduction to Hungary’s warmth and hospitality.
Helpful tips for Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport
- Arrive at least 90 minutes before departure for security and check-in.
- Use the free Wi‑Fi network in Terminal 1, but verify the password on the airport’s information desk.
- Check the flight status board regularly; delays are common during winter weather conditions near Budapest.
- Explore the airport’s art installations and local craft shops for authentic Hungarian souvenirs before boarding.
Available airport lounges
Located in Terminal 2, this lounge is accessible to all passengers for a fee or via lounge membership. It offers comfortable seating, complimentary drinks and snacks, free Wi-Fi, and newspapers, open from early morning until late evening.
Situated in Terminal 2B, this lounge offers a buffet with Hungarian specialities, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, and a quiet space to relax. Entry requires payment or eligible tickets and is open daily until 10 PM.
Open to Mastercard holders and visitors by purchase, providing refreshments, comfortable seating, and business amenities in Terminal 2.
Where to stay near Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport
Accommodation options near the airport include business hotels and budget-friendly lodgings, though most travelers prefer staying in central Budapest for better access to the city’s landmarks and nightlife.
Hotel recommendations
How to get from Budapest Airport to popular destinations
To Budapest city centre:
The most popular way to get to Budapest city centre is by the 100E Airport Shuttle bus, running 24/7 between the airport and central transport hubs like Deák Ferenc tér. Tickets cost around HUF 900 (£2.08) and the journey takes about 35-45 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, the 200E bus runs to the Kobanya-Kispest metro station, connecting to the M3 metro line into the city. Taxis and private transfers are also widely available, typically costing HUF 6,000 – 8,000 (£13.84 – 18.45).
To Hungarian countryside:
Car hire and organised tours departing from the airport allow easy exploration of attractions like Lake Balaton, Eger wine region, and Hortobágy National Park, with travel times of 1-2 hours depending on destination.