How to get from Budapest to Hungaroring
If you’re planning to visit the Hungaroring race track from Budapest, knowing your travel options can make all the difference in having a smooth and enjoyable trip. Located about 24 kilometers northeast of the city center, Hungaroring is accessible by multiple modes of transport, including public transit, taxis, and private cars. Whether you’re heading there for a Formula 1 race, a motorsport event, or just to explore, this guide will help you choose the best way to get to Hungaroring based on your preferences for cost, speed, and convenience.
Public Transport Routes and Step-by-Step Directions
Traveling from Budapest to Hungaroring using public transportation involves a combination of subway, train, and bus services. Below are the most common routes with detailed step-by-step directions to help you navigate the journey smoothly.
If you have some time before your trip, consider visiting the Budapest History Museum to dive into the fascinating story of the city’s past.
1. Route 1: Subway (M2) + Train (H8) + Bus (317)
Overview: This route is often considered the best balance between travel time and convenience.
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Step 1: Start at Keleti pályaudvar subway station.
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Take the M2 (red line) subway toward Örs vezér tere.
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Step 2: Arrive at Örs vezér tere station.
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Transfer to the H8 suburban train toward Mogyoród.
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Step 3: Get off at Mogyoród, HÉV-állomás station.
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Step 4: Take bus number 317 or other local buses heading to Mogyoród, Evangélikus templom, which is near the Hungaroring main entrance.
Total travel time: Approximately 1 hour 24 minutes.
If you prefer mixing urban adventure with relaxation, consider timing your trip to also enjoy the renowned Széchenyi Thermal Bath — a perfect way to unwind after a day of racing excitement.
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Location: Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146 Budapest
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Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
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Cost: Entry starts at €20
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Features: One of Europe’s largest thermal bath complexes, featuring indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and spa treatments; located in City Park.
2. Route 2: Subway (M3) + Bus (321)
Overview: A straightforward route favored by many locals.
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Step 1: Board the M3 (blue line) subway at Deák Ferenc tér.
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Travel toward Újpest-központ station.
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Step 2: Arrive at Újpest-központ.
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Transfer to bus line 321, which goes directly to the Hungaroring main entrance.
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Total travel time: Approximately 1 hour 46 minutes.
3. Route 3: Bus (30) + Bus (321)
Overview: An option for those who prefer buses over trains and subways.
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Step 1: Take bus number 30 from Keleti pályaudvar M (metro station).
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Travel to Újpest-központ M.
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Step 2: Transfer to bus 321 at Újpest-központ.
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Ride directly to Hungaroring main entrance.
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Total travel time: About 1 hour 59 minutes.
4. Tips for Using Public Transport
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Make sure to check the latest schedules before your trip as timetables may vary depending on the day or special events.
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Purchase combined tickets or passes where possible to save money and avoid ticket confusion.
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Keep an eye on transfer times to ensure smooth connections between subway, train, and bus.
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During major racing events, additional transport services or shuttles may be offered—check official event websites for updates.
Private and Road Travel Options
If you’re after flexibility and convenience, traveling by car or taxi from Budapest to Hungaroring offers distinct advantages over public transport.
For architecture and spiritual ambiance lovers, the St. Anne’s Church offers a beautiful example of Baroque style worth a visit.
1. Driving Yourself
Driving the 24.1 km route takes approximately 25 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This option allows you to:
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Set your own schedule — no waiting for buses or trains.
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Stop along the way — explore local towns or grab a bite.
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Travel comfortably with gear — perfect if you have bulky luggage or equipment.
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Park easily — plenty of parking spaces are available near Hungaroring.
Important: During major events, traffic congestion is common, so it’s wise to leave early.
For those who love combining sightseeing with flexibility, parking near Margaret Island can be a rewarding stop. Here, you can enjoy green spaces and leisurely walks before or after the race.
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Location: Budapest, Hungary, between Margaret Bridge and Árpád Bridge
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Hours: Open year-round; best visited during daylight hours
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Cost: Free entry
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Features: A tranquil urban park surrounded by the Danube River, offering lush gardens, medieval ruins, and recreational facilities. Highlights include the Musical Fountain, a small zoo, and rentable bikes or electric carts. Perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, or a peaceful retreat from the city.
2. Taxi Services
If you’d rather skip the hassle of driving, taxis offer a straightforward, door-to-door service:
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Typical fare: €19–24
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Travel time: ~25 minutes
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Ideal for groups or travelers with limited local knowledge
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Offers comfort and privacy without the need to navigate
3. Quick Comparison: Driving vs Taxi
For a glimpse into everyday Budapest life, the Ecseri Flea Market is a treasure trove of antiques and curiosities, perfect for a leisurely browse.
Feature |
Driving Yourself |
Taxi Service |
Cost |
Fuel + parking fees |
€19–24 per trip |
Flexibility |
High |
Medium |
Convenience |
Moderate (you drive) |
High (driver handles route) |
Ability to stop en route |
Yes |
Limited |
Parking availability |
Available near venue |
N/A |
Stress level |
Higher (navigation + traffic) |
Lower (relax in the back) |
4. Insider Tips
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Car Rentals: Numerous rental agencies in Budapest offer a wide range of vehicles, from economy to luxury. Book in advance during race weekends.
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Ride-Sharing Apps: Services like Bolt or Uber (where available) can be a budget-friendly alternative to traditional taxis.
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Plan Ahead: Check real-time traffic updates and event schedules to avoid delays.
By choosing private or road travel, you gain the freedom to tailor your trip exactly to your needs, ensuring your visit to Hungaroring is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Exploring Budapest’s Art Nouveau architecture is rewarding, especially at the House of Hungarian Art Nouveau, a unique museum dedicated to this decorative style.
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Location: Honvéd utca 3, 1054 Budapest
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Hours: Mon–Sat 10 AM–5 PM; closed Sundays Cost: €5.60 (HUF 2,000); discounted rate €4.20 (HUF 1,500) for students/seniors, free under-6
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Features: A beautifully preserved Art Nouveau mansion showcasing Hungarian decorative arts, furniture, ceramics, and architectural design; located a 5-minute walk from Parliament.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get from Budapest to Hungaroring?
The most budget-friendly option is driving yourself, which mainly costs fuel and parking fees. Public buses are also affordable but take longer.
What is the fastest way to get there?
Taking a taxi or driving your own car usually takes around 25 minutes, making these the quickest options.
Is there a direct bus from Budapest to Hungaroring?
No direct bus runs the entire route, but you can combine subway and bus lines (e.g., subway to Újpest-központ, then bus 321) for a smooth connection.
How far is Hungaroring from Budapest?
Hungaroring is approximately 24.1 km northeast of Budapest.
How long does it take to get from Budapest to Hungaroring without a car?
By combining subway, train, and bus, the journey can take 1 hour 24 minutes to nearly 2 hours, depending on connections.
Where can I catch the bus to Hungaroring?
Common departure points include:
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Keleti pályaudvar M (subway station)
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Újpest-központ M (subway station)
Where does the bus arrive at Hungaroring?
The bus stops at Mogyoród, HUNGARORING főbejárat (main entrance).
Can I drive from Budapest to Hungaroring?
Yes, driving is convenient with clear road signs leading to the race track. Parking is available on site.
While in the city, the Raoul Wallenberg Holocaust Memorial Park offers a somber but important reflection on history, enriching your travel experience.
What transport companies operate this route?
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Train: MÁV Személyszállítási
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Bus: BKK and MÁV
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Taxi: Various local companies
Beyond the adrenaline of motorsports, Budapest offers quieter moments at gems like the Vajdahunyad Castle, whose fairy-tale architecture contrasts beautifully with the modernity of the Hungaroring circuit.
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Location: City Park (Városliget), Budapest, Hungary
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Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (grounds accessible 24/7)
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Cost: Entry to the castle courtyard and park is free; the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture inside the castle charges €5 for adults, discounts available for students and seniors
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Features: A fairy-tale castle built in eclectic style, combining architectural elements from Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque periods; hosts the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture—the largest agricultural museum