Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport

Ferenc Liszt International Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true overture to your journey through the "Pearl of the Danube". Named after the great virtuoso composer, this modern hub harmoniously combines advanced technology with Hungarian hospitality. Spacious terminals and intuitive navigation allow tourists to feel completely at ease from their very first minutes in Hungary. Whether it is a short layover or the beginning of a grand holiday, the atmosphere of this air harbour sets the tone for pleasant discoveries.

Features and Highlights

Budapest Airport is renowned for its well-thought-out infrastructure and passenger convenience. The central element is the SkyCourt—a spacious hall connecting Terminals 2A and 2B, home to the best shops, cafés, and restaurants. One of the unique features is the open-air Observation Terrace on the roof of Terminal 2A. It offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the runway, making the wait for a flight an exciting experience.

Transport accessibility is another strong advantage: you can reach the city centre quickly and affordably on the direct 100E express bus. The airport also offers excellent business lounges and high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the premises, allowing you to stay connected or work productively while waiting for departure.

• Official Website: www.bud.hu. On the site, you will find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations.
• Information Service Phone: +36 1 296 7000 (24 hours).
• Address: Budapest, 1185, Hungary.
• Email for General Inquiries: info@bud.hu.
• Social Media: The airport maintains active pages on popular social networks such as Facebook and Instagram. Links can be found on the official website.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost items within the terminal, please contact the airport's lost property service. If items were lost on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline directly. Detailed contacts and a form to fill out are available in the "Lost property" section of the official website.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance or consultation, you may use the information service phone number or send an email.

Getting from Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) to the centre of Budapest or vice versa can be done in several convenient ways. The transport system of the capital of Hungary is well-developed and offers options suitable for any budget and preference, from economical buses to comfortable taxis.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly way to reach the city. Two main bus routes are available to passengers:

• Express Bus 100E: This is the most direct and fastest option. The shuttle runs from the airport to the central square, Deák Ferenc tér, making only a few stops at key points in the centre. The journey takes approximately 35-45 minutes. It is important to remember that this route requires a special "Airport shuttle bus single ticket," which costs more than a standard ticket but ensures a direct connection to the city centre.
• Bus 200E + Metro: A more economical but longer route. Bus 200E runs between Terminal 2 and the terminus of the blue Metro line M3 (Kőbánya-Kispest). From there, you can easily reach any part of Budapest by metro. Standard city tickets and BKK travel passes are valid on this route. The total travel time is about 50-60 minutes.

There is also an alternative route via the railway. To do this, take bus 200E to the Ferihegy train station, from where trains depart to Nyugati railway station. This option may be particularly convenient if your accommodation is located near this station.

Taxi and Private Transfer are the choice for maximum comfort. Counters for the airport's official partner, Főtaxi, are located at the exit of the arrival terminals. A trip to the city centre will take about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic, and will cost approximately 9,800 HUF (around 25-30 EUR), as tariffs are fixed. Additionally, you can use mobile apps (such as Bolt) or book a private transfer in advance, which is especially convenient for those travelling with large luggage or family.

For those planning to travel actively around the country, car rental is an excellent solution. Offices of all major international rental agencies are present in the airport building. You can arrange the rental and pick up the car immediately upon arrival. For car owners arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, various types of parking are provided: from short-term Premium parking right by the terminal to more affordable long-term Holiday Parking. To get the best rate, it is recommended to book a parking space online in advance.

Although Budapest airport is the main transport hub of the region, other airports may be convenient for certain routes. For example, travellers heading to the east of Hungary should consider Debrecen Airport, and for trips to Slovakia — Bratislava Airport or Košice.

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport has a simple and logical structure, making navigation quite convenient for passengers. In fact, all passenger flights are handled in a single complex — Terminal 2, which consists of several interconnected parts.

The main complex is divided into two wings: Terminal 2A and Terminal 2B. The key difference between them lies in the geography of flights:

• Terminal 2A handles flights to countries within the Schengen Area.
• Terminal 2B is designated for flights to countries outside the Schengen Area (including flights to the UAE), as well as all long-haul flights.

These two terminals are connected by a modern central building called SkyCourt. This is a spacious transit zone where most shops, restaurants, cafés, and business lounges are located. It is here that passengers undergo centralized security screening before heading to their boarding gates in wing 2A or 2B. Moving between terminals is done on foot through the SkyCourt and does not require the use of shuttles.

Arrival zones are located on the lower level of both terminals, while departure zones and check-in counters are on the upper level. Navigation is intuitive thanks to clear signs in Hungarian, English, and German, as well as pictograms. Recently, a new pier — Pier 1 — was added to Terminal 2A, which primarily serves low-cost airlines and expands the capacity of the Schengen zone.

It is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance to complete check-in and security screening. For flights within the Schengen Area (Terminal 2A), it is advisable to be on-site 2 hours before departure. For international flights outside Schengen (Terminal 2B), where passport control is required, it is better to allow at least 2.5-3 hours. During peak seasons and holidays, waiting times may increase, so it is worth allowing for an extra margin.

The history of the main airport of Budapest began even before the Second World War. The decision to build was made in 1938, and by 1943 the first runways were ready. However, military actions interrupted the development of civil aviation. The official opening of the airport, named Ferihegy, took place on 7 May 1950. Initially, it served both civil and military flights.

With the growth of passenger traffic in the 1980s, the need for expansion arose. In 1985, the new Terminal 2 (today known as Terminal 2A) was opened, which significantly increased the airport's capacity and became a symbol of Hungary's openness to international travel. Following a change in political regime and an increase in the number of flights, Terminal 2B was completed in 1998, designed to handle flights outside the Schengen zone.

One of the key events in the airport's recent history occurred in 2011. Firstly, it was renamed in honour of the great Hungarian composer, receiving its current name — Ferenc Liszt International Airport. Secondly, in the same year, a large-scale reconstruction was completed: the modern passenger complex SkyCourt was built between terminals 2A and 2B, uniting them into a single space with shops, restaurants, and relaxation zones.

Interesting fact: the historic building of the first terminal, built in the Modernist style, is today an architectural monument. Although it has temporarily not been used for passenger transport since 2012, following the bankruptcy of the national airline Malév, its unique design continues to command admiration. For aviation enthusiasts, the Aeropark museum is located near the airport, where you can see aircraft that were once the pride of Hungarian civil aviation.

Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) offers passengers a full range of services to make their stay as comfortable and productive as possible. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, you will find everything you need here for a pleasant wait for your flight.

For those feeling hungry, the terminals feature numerous restaurants, cafés, and lounges to suit every taste — from fast food outlets to establishments serving Hungarian and international cuisine. A wide selection of shops, including a large Duty Free zone, allows you to purchase souvenirs, gifts, perfumes, and local delicacies. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for gadgets will help you stay connected.

Passengers who value enhanced comfort can utilize several business lounges and VIP lounges, offering a secluded atmosphere, snacks, beverages, and work areas. To handle financial matters, the airport has bank branches, currency exchange points, and ATMs. In case of necessity, you can seek assistance at the 24-hour medical centre.

The airport also caters to the youngest travellers: playgrounds and mother-and-child rooms are equipped for them. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with special assistance and escort services, and the terminal infrastructure is fully adapted to their needs. For business people, conference rooms and business centres are available. If you have a long layover or an early flight, you can stay at one of the hotels located directly on the airport grounds or a few minutes' drive away.

At Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), you will find plenty of options for a snack or a full meal, capable of satisfying any taste and budget. The main concentration of dining establishments is located in the departure zone after passing security control, in the so-called SkyCourt — the central hall connecting terminals 2A and 2B.

Before passing control (in the public landside area), the choice is more limited but sufficient for those seeing off or meeting passengers. Several cafés are located here where you can have coffee with pastries (e.g., Costa Coffee), as well as a SPAR supermarket, where it is convenient to buy drinks and snacks for the road at more reasonable prices.

After passing security control, a large food court and numerous restaurants in the SkyCourt open up before you. Here there are both world-famous fast-food chains (Burger King, KFC) and restaurants with à la carte service.

• For a quick snack: numerous cafés serving sandwiches, salads, and pastries, as well as pizza or burger outlets, are perfect.
• For a full meal: consider restaurants offering international and local cuisine, such as Leroy Bistro. Here you can spend time comfortably while waiting for your flight.
• To try local flavours: look for establishments offering traditional Hungarian Goulash soup, Lángos, or the "Somlói Galuska" dessert. This is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the national cuisine before departure.

Most restaurants and cafés offer vegetarian dishes. Options for vegans or people with gluten intolerance are also available, but it is best to verify this on-site by studying the menu of the specific establishment. The opening hours of most food outlets are tied to the flight schedule and cover morning and evening departures, while some establishments in the departure zone operate around the clock. The price range, as in most airports worldwide, is higher than the city average, however, the variety of formats allows you to find an option for any budget.

To ensure your journey from Budapest airport goes smoothly, arrive well in advance: 2.5–3 hours before non-Schengen flights and 2 hours before flights within the Schengen zone. Use online check-in to save time. Regarding money, avoid exchanging currency at the airport — the rate here is extremely unfavourable. Exchange only a small amount for immediate needs or use an ATM, and exchange the main portion in the city. The same applies to SIM cards: you will find better offers from local operators in the city.

Passing security control at the airport is standard, but be prepared for queues during peak hours. Liquids up to 100 ml must be in a transparent bag, and large electronics need to be removed from hand luggage. A tip for the thrifty: bring an empty water bottle with you. After inspection, you can fill it for free at drinking fountains located in the transit zone. Saving on food is also possible: in the arrival hall (before the control zone), there is a Spar supermarket with regular prices where you can buy snacks.

For passengers with a layover, navigation is simple: terminals 2A (Schengen) and 2B (non-Schengen) are connected by the spacious SkyCourt building, where shops and restaurants are concentrated. Walking between them takes no more than 10 minutes. If you are transiting between the Schengen and non-Schengen zones, you will need to pass passport control. Customs regulations in Hungary comply with EU standards: goods for personal use pass through the "Green Channel".

To get to the city economically, use public transport. Tickets, including for the popular 100E shuttle to the centre, are best purchased at the purple BKK (Budapest Transport Centre) machines located in the arrival hall. They feature a multilingual interface and accept bank cards. Buying a ticket directly from the driver will cost more. If you prefer a taxi, order it only at the official Főtaxi counter in the arrival zone to avoid inflated prices.

In case of flight delay or cancellation, first find the counter or representative of your airline. Remember your passenger rights in the EU (Regulation 261/2004), which provides for assistance and potential compensation. While waiting for departure, you can use free Wi-Fi throughout the airport, relax in a café, or visit one of the business lounges, access to which can be paid for on the spot.