Budapest childrens railway

Riding the Budapest Children’s Railway, or Gyermekvasút, is unlike any other train experience in Hungary—or indeed the world. What sets this railway apart is that almost every role on the train and at its stations is performed by children aged between 10 and 14. These young “conductors,” “signal operators,” and “ticket inspectors” take turns running the railway under the careful supervision of adults, creating a unique blend of youthful enthusiasm and disciplined service.

Table of contents

• Historical Background
• The Experience of Riding the Railway
• Combining the Railway Ride with Local Attractions
• Practical Information for Visitors

Historical Background

The Children’s Railway has a fascinating history rooted in post-war Hungary. Conceived in 1947, the railway was originally designed to connect Budapest’s urban areas to a children’s camp called the Pioneer Republic nestled in the serene Buda Hills. This vision quickly materialized, and by 1948, the first section of the narrow-gauge line opened between Széchenyihegy and Virágvölgy stations.

Initially known as the Pioneer’s Railway, the line expanded rapidly. Over the following years, additional stations—Jánoshegy, Szépjuhászné, Hárshegy, and finally Hűvösvölgy—were added, completing a seven-mile route winding through the forested hills. In 1990, reflecting changes in political and social contexts, the railway was renamed Gyermekvasút, or the Children’s Railway.

To deepen your appreciation of Budapest’s diverse heritage, a visit to the stunning Dohany Street Synagogue offers insight into the city’s rich Jewish culture, providing a meaningful contrast to the youthful spirit of the Children’s Railway.

• Location: Dohány Street 2, 1074 Budapest

• Hours: Museum and tours open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (closed Saturdays for prayers)

• Cost: Admission from €12.00

• Features: Europe’s largest synagogue and a key monument of Budapest’s Jewish heritage; includes a Museum, Memorial Park, and striking Moorish Revival architectur

What makes this railway unique is not just its route, but the fact that children, mostly elementary school students with top academic results, staff almost all of its roles. After undergoing a rigorous six-month training program, these young operators take turns managing signaling, ticket sales, and passenger assistance under adult supervision. The only role they don’t perform is driving the train itself.

In 2015, the Children’s Railway was recognized by the Guinness World Records as the longest children-operated railway in the world—a testament to its enduring appeal and the success of this unique educational initiative.

For visitors captivated by historic architecture, the elegant Sandor Palace near Buda Castle offers a glimpse into Hungary’s regal past, complementing the storybook charm of the Children’s Railway.

The Experience of Riding the Railway

Riding the Budapest Children’s Railway is much more than just a train trip — it’s a unique adventure filled with history, youthful energy, and stunning scenery. Here’s what you can expect when you hop aboard this charming little railway run almost entirely by children.

Much like a scenic day cruise on the Danube offers a unique way to take in Budapest’s charm from the water, the Children’s Railway provides a refreshing, forest-bound adventure that showcases the city’s natural side.

1. Boarding the Train: A Nostalgic Step Back in Time

The journey begins at the Széchenyi-hegy station, a modest building that hides a surprising treasure—a colorful mural celebrating the railway’s heritage. While the station’s exterior might not wow you at first glance, step inside and you’re immediately transported to a different era:

Vintage Carriages: Inside the train, spotless wooden benches and a classic sky-blue and ivory paint scheme create a cozy, retro atmosphere.

Young Staff in Uniform: Kids aged 10 to 14, proudly wearing neat uniforms and peaked caps, take on all roles except driving. Watching them manage signaling, ticket collection, and passenger assistance is both charming and impressive.

Friendly Atmosphere: Despite their youth, these young conductors handle their responsibilities with a surprising level of professionalism — and a bit of teenage charm.

2. A Scenic Ride Through the Buda Hills

Once the train starts rolling, settle in for about 37 minutes of spectacular views and peaceful surroundings. The route snakes uphill through dense forests and leafy suburbs, giving passengers a refreshing escape from the city noise.

What You’ll See:

• Lush green forests hugging the narrow-gauge tracks

• Panoramic vistas of Budapest gradually emerging through the trees

• The gentle rise in altitude, allowing breathtaking views of the rolling hills

3. Stops and Highlights Along the Route

Many passengers take advantage of the stops along the line to explore the area. Two especially popular stations include:

Jánoshegy: This stop is a gateway to the famous Erzsébet-kilátó (Elizabeth Lookout), a historic stone tower that rewards visitors with sweeping views of the city and beyond. Don’t forget to climb the 134 steps to the top platform for a truly spectacular panorama.

For those who appreciate stunning views, a short trip to the nearby Gellért Hill offers a spectacular vantage point over the Danube and the city, enriching your nature-filled day with some of Budapest’s most iconic panoramas.

• Location: Budapest, Hungary, near the Liberty Bridge

• Hours: Open year-round; best visited during daylight hours for safety and optimal views

• Cost: Free entry

• Features: A historic hill offering panoramic views of Budapest and the Danube. Attractions include the Liberty Statue, Citadella, and winding paths perfect for a scenic hike. Ideal for photography, picnics, and soaking in the city’s beauty from above.

Virágvölgy: From here, adventurous visitors can hike to the nearby Zugliget chairlift station (reopening soon after refurbishment) for another scenic ride down to the city.

4. Why Riding the Children’s Railway is Special

Educational Experience: The railway is operated by specially trained children who earn this honor through good school performance — a living classroom on rails.

For visitors intrigued by learning experiences, the nearby Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum provides a fascinating peek into Budapest’s wartime history, balancing the youthful spirit of the railway with sobering historical insights.

• Location: Lovas út 4/c, 1012 Budapest (Buda Castle Hill)

• Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Cost: Admission €8; discounts for seniors and students

• Features: Unique underground museum in a former emergency hospital and nuclear bunker; exhibits on medical history and Cold War era; guided tours available in multiple languages.

Friendly Vibes: The cheerful smiles of young attendants, waving with dispatch batons, give the ride a warm, welcoming feel.

A Family-Friendly Outing: It’s an ideal activity for families with kids who will be fascinated to see peers managing the train operations.

Year-Round Operation: Whether you visit in lush summer or snowy winter, the railway runs year-round (except some Mondays in off-season), often hosting special events like the Christmas lights train or firework-viewing rides.

5. Quick Tips for a Great Ride

Bring cash: Tickets are cash-only, payable in Hungarian forints.

Arrive early: To soak in the atmosphere and explore the small ticket hall mural.

Combine your trip: Pair the railway journey with a hike or visit to the Elizabeth Lookout for a full-day adventure.

Check the schedule: The number of departures varies by season — summer weekends see the most frequent trains.

Combining the Railway Ride with Local Attractions

A journey on Budapest’s Children’s Railway offers much more than just a unique train ride operated by children. It serves as a gateway to a variety of nearby attractions and natural experiences in the scenic Buda Hills, making it an ideal part of a day’s adventure for visitors of all ages.

1. Popular Nearby Attractions

One of the most beloved stops is Jánoshegy station, which provides access to the famous Erzsébet-kilátó (Elizabeth Lookout Tower). This stone tower, built in 1910, is named after Empress Elisabeth of Hungary and is a highlight for many visitors. The climb to the top involves ascending 134 steps, but the panoramic views of Budapest’s skyline and the rolling hills beyond make the effort worthwhile. On clear days, you can even see the distant High Tatras mountains.

Another notable spot is Virágvölgy station, near which you’ll find the Zugliget chairlift. Scheduled to reopen soon after renovations, the chairlift offers a scenic, relaxing ride down the hillside — perfect for families or anyone looking to enjoy the landscape from a different perspective.

If you prefer urban sights, the majestic House of Parliament along the Danube is an iconic landmark worth seeing, offering a grand contrast to the serene, nature-filled ride through the Buda Hills.

2. Outdoor Activities and Trails

The forests along the railway line invite visitors to stretch their legs and explore the great outdoors. Several hiking trails connect the stations, offering options from gentle walks to more challenging hikes. This makes it easy to combine a train journey with an enjoyable day out in nature.

Key highlights include:

Hiking routes: Trails that link stations like Széchenyi-hegy, Virágvölgy, and Jánoshegy offer peaceful woodland paths.

Forest playgrounds: Particularly popular in summer, these provide family-friendly spots for children to play.

Winter sports: In colder months, toboggan runs near some stations add seasonal fun to the visit.

If you want to extend your outdoor exploration beyond the hills, the vast Városliget (City Park) offers expansive lawns, a boating lake, and historic monuments—a perfect complement to a day on the railway.

3. Special Events on the Children’s Railway

The railway calendar is dotted with events that make each visit special. Notable occasions include:

Children’s Railway Day (April): Celebrations with guided tours and activities focused on the young operators.

National Day Fireworks (August 20): A unique train ride experience watching spectacular fireworks. Advent and Christmas Season: Festively decorated carriages create a magical atmosphere during December and early January.

Steam Days: When vintage steam engines are brought out, adding nostalgic charm to the journey.

Art lovers may want to complement their day with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts, where masterpieces from various periods enrich Budapest’s cultural tapestry beyond the scenic railway journey.

• Location: Dózsa György út 41, 1146 Budapest

• Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

• Cost: €8–€12 (free on select national holidays)

• Features: A world-class collection of European art, including works by Rembrandt, El Greco, and Monet. The museum also features impressive ancient Egyptian and classical antiquities.

4. Tips for Planning Your Visit

To make the most of your trip:

• Check the train schedule ahead of time to coordinate your sightseeing and reduce waiting.

• Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and walking around stations.

• Bring a small backpack with water, snacks, and a camera to capture memorable moments.

• Consider purchasing tickets in advance during busy periods or special events.

By weaving together the train ride with these local sights and activities, visitors can enjoy a richer and more varied experience of Budapest’s natural beauty and history beyond the city center.

Practical Information for Visitors

The Budapest Children’s Railway is located in the Buda Hills, easily accessible from the city center. Take bus #5 from Keleti Station to Városmajor, then transfer to tram #60 to Széchenyi-hegy station. Be ready for a short flight of stairs at the station entrance.

Tickets cost around €2.70 for adults (single), with children paying half price. Vintage carriages require a small extra fee of about €1.10. Note that tickets are cash-only, and only Hungarian Forints are accepted.

The railway runs year-round, with more frequent service in summer. From September to April, trains don’t run on Mondays. There are usually 9–12 daily departures during peak season.

Safety is a top priority. Although children operate most roles, adults supervise and drive the train. Accessibility is limited due to stairs and outdoor terrain, so plan accordingly.

Arriving early to buy tickets and dress for the weather will make your visit smoother. Combining the ride with nearby hikes or the Erzsébet Lookout can turn it into a full-day outing.