Navigating Budapest's Metro: Ticket Info and Essential Travel Tips

Budapest combines history with modernity where iconic landmarks sit alongside a good transport system. The Budapest Metro, a quick and easy way to get around the city, connects you to many of its main attractions. From Buda Castle to Pest and the Danube banks, the metro gets you across the city fast. Explore Budapest like a local with these tips and insights into the city’s underground network.

Budapest Metro

Budapest’s Metro, the oldest underground line, opened in 1896 with Line 1 (yellow). Today four metro lines—M1 (Yellow), M2 (Red), M3 (Blue), M4 (Green)—serve the city. Fast, cheap and user-friendly, the metro is for tourists and locals alike. With good connections it gets you to the main sights. Complemented by trams and buses it’s part of the city’s transport network.

Each line is different so you can travel from historic areas like Buda Castle to the modern Pest district where shopping malls, cafes and restaurants thrive. Whether you want to visit iconic sites like Heroes’ Square, the Hungarian Parliament or the city parks the metro gets you there fast and cheap.

Budapest Metro Map in 2025

The Budapest Metro map is easy to read, for first timers and frequent users. It shows the four main lines, the districts and the landmarks. You can find it online or use interactive apps for real-time maps. The metro lines are clearly marked and the stations are near the main tourist attractions so you can get from A to B easily.

Here’s a summary of the metro lines with some key stations on each:

• Line 1 (Yellow Line): From Vörösmarty tér to Széchenyi fürdő. This line goes through important locations like Andrássy Avenue, Heroes’ Square and City Park.
• Line 2 (Red Line): From Déli pályaudvar to Örs vezér tér. This line crosses the city centre and gets you to the southern and northern districts.
• Line 3 (Blue Line): From Újpest to Kőbánya-Kispest. This line covers the northern suburbs and gets you to popular districts like Corvin Plaza and Népliget Park.
• Line 4 (Green Line): From Keleti railway station to Kelenföld. This line gets you to Móricz Zsigmond körtér and the modern district of Újbuda.

For more information, you can find printable maps and schedules online. You can also download apps for real-time metro updates.

Metro Lines

Each line is different, connecting different areas and attractions. Here’s a closer look at each metro line:

Line 1 (Yellow Line)

The M1 Line, or Millennium Underground, is the oldest metro line in Budapest. From Vörösmarty tér to Széchenyi fürdő it goes through historic areas like Andrássy Avenue and City Park. Passengers on this line get a glimpse of Budapest’s past while underground. The M1 is one of the few lines in Europe with vintage trains, that’s a bonus.

Line 2 (Red Line)

The M2 Line connects the southern and northern districts, so it’s an important line for locals and tourists alike. From the Déli pályaudvar (Southern Railway Station) it goes north to Örs vezér tér, through several residential and business districts. Key stations along the way are Deák Ferenc tér, a central hub for many lines, and Puskás Aréna, popular with football fans.

Line 3 (Blue Line)

The M3 Line covers a big part of the city, from Újpest in the north to Kőbánya-Kispest in the south. The line goes through Corvin Plaza and gets you to Népliget Park, a popular outdoor spot. The M3 is a commuter line, used by locals to travel between the suburbs and the city centre.

Line 4 (Green Line)

The newest of the four metro lines, the M4 Line connects Keleti Railway Station to Kelenföld in the west where you can enjoy a day out at Gellért Thermal Bath. This line serves the modern districts of Újbuda and Móricz Zsigmond körtér, with trendy cafes, restaurants and shopping centres. This line is perfect for visitors who want to explore the growing urban areas of Budapest.

How to Use Budapest Metro

Using the Budapest Metro is easy, here’s what you need to know:

• Tickets: A single metro ticket costs around 350 HUF (1.05 EUR), but there are other options. You can also buy a day pass for 1500 HUF (4.5 EUR), which is unlimited travel for 24 hours. If you’re staying longer, a weekly pass is available for 4950 HUF (14.5 EUR). For tourists the Budapest Card offers unlimited travel on the metro and discounts at many attractions.
• Where to Buy Tickets: You can buy tickets from the ticket machines or at the ticket kiosks in most metro stations. You can also buy tickets online.
• Free Travel for Seniors: EU citizens 65+ can travel for free on the Budapest Metro with valid ID. That’s a nice perk for older visitors.

Budapest's Metro Schedule

The Budapest Metro runs from around 4:30 AM to 11:00 PM. During peak hours (usually 8:00-9:00 AM and 5:00-6:00 PM) the trains run every 3-5 minutes, during off-peak hours every 7-10 minutes. On weekends it can get busier, especially on Saturdays, so plan ahead to avoid the crowds or join a walking tour not to miss an opportunity to see the beauty of the Hungarian capital.

Travel Tips for Using Budapest Metro

1. Avoid Rush Hours: The metro can get crowded during rush hours. If you can, try to avoid traveling between 8:00-9:00 AM and 5:00-6:00 PM.
2. Keep Your Ticket Ready: The metro checks tickets regularly. Fines for traveling without a valid ticket can be high, so always have your ticket with you.
3. Watch Your Belongings: As with any big city, be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded stations where pickpockets might be active.

Fun Facts About the Budapest Metro

• The M1 Line was the first electric underground train in Europe, built to celebrate the millennium of Hungary.
• M4, the newest line, has modern, sleek trains, a big difference from the older lines.
• The M1 Line is the shortest line but also one of the most popular.

The Budapest Metro is the fastest and cheapest way to see the city’s sights. With clear signs, easy stations and affordable tickets it’s the best way to travel. Whether you’re a tourist visiting the top attractions or a local commuting to work, use the metro. Get your map and go!