Hungary has an extensive domestic transportation network that covers the whole country. No matter where you are, you can easily find access to buses, trains or both. At the same time, travel websites, and mobile apps make the process of finding tickets and checking the time-schedules a breeze.
The public transportation system in Hungary
Let's start by saying that the negative rumours you may have heard regarding taxis in Hungary are mostly true. Taking a taxi, especially in Budapest, is definitely not recommended as there is a big possibility to be charged way more than the normal amount. Having said that, the country's public transport system is so robust you won't miss taxis at all.
The first thing you need to do is visit the Menetrendek website. This thorough travel planner will help you find the best way to get where you want to go, plan trips that involve more than one means of transport, check the exact route and time-schedule, and find transfer options and connecting times. Once you decide your trip, you can visit the website of the rail or bus company and purchase your ticket(s).
Good to know: Menetrendek also comes in the form of a mobile app for you to download to your smartphone.
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Travelling by train
Hungary's railway hub is definitely Budapest: from the capital, you have access to three large terminals that serve different regions covering the whole country. The trains are operated by MÃV-Start and tickets can be bought online. Find out more here.
Good to know: In Hungary, you can bring your bicycle on board any train, as long as you have purchased a specific 'bicycle ticket'.
Travelling by bus
The bus network in Hungary is also very extensive. It is provided by seven regional companies, but they all work together to supplement each other's services and make sure there are good connections from place to place. Ticket prices vary based on the distance travelled; there are also express bus lines that go on the motorways for faster transport (but also cost a bit extra). You can buy your bus tickets at vending machines at bus terminals, or directly from the driver in cash. There are also some bus companies that offer their tickets sales online, but this is mostly the case for buses to and from Budapest.
Good to know: In Hungarian buses, you are only allowed to board at the front door, where the driver will also check your tickets.
Travelling by boat
Hungary may be a land-locked country, but waterway transport is more than just an option you have: it's actually quite traditional. After all, Hungary is home to the largest lake in Europe, Balaton, where boats have been carrying passengers for more than 170 years. Nowadays, there are scheduled lines and various day trips for sightseeing throughout the year. And of course, there's Danube river where you can find cruise ships and hydrofoils from spring to autumn.
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