Are you planning a trip to Budapest and wondering how to make the most of your stay? Look no further than the Budapest Card – the ultimate travel pass that offers discounts and free entry to a range of top attractions in the city. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about the Budapest Card, including its benefits, costs, and where to buy it.

Note: This article contains affiliate links. In case you purchase something through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost for you. Thank you for helping us keep creating the free content on this website!

What is the Budapest Card?

The Budapest Card is a discount card designed for tourists visiting Budapest. It provides free access to over 30 museums and attractions in the city, as well as unlimited travel on public transport, including buses, trams, and metro lines. Additionally, the card offers discounts on various cultural events, tours, and restaurants.

Budapest Card
Budapest Card

Benefits of the Budapest Card

This card offers numerous benefits to travelers, including:

Free entry to top attractions

The card provides free access to over 30 attractions in Budapest, including the Hungarian National Museum, the Budapest History Museum, and the Hungarian State Opera House. It also provides free entry to a range of thermal baths, such as the Gellért and Széchenyi Baths.

Unlimited public transport

The Budapest Card allows unlimited travel on Budapest's public transport system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. This is particularly useful for travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace and don't want to worry about the cost of individual tickets.

Discounts on tours and cultural events

The Card offers discounts on a range of tours and cultural events in the city, including river cruises, bike tours, and wine tastings. Additionally, the card provides discounts on restaurants and souvenir shops, making it an excellent value for money.

Free to visit

Pálvölgyi cave, Official castle bus, Lukács bath, Castle museum, Budapest gallery, Aquimcum museum, Kiscelli museum, Hungarian National Gallery, Hungarian national museum, Ferenc Hopp Museum of Asian Art, Mai Manó House - Photo Gallery, Robert Capa - Centre for Contemporary Photography, Memento Park, Béla Bartók Memorial House, Museum of Fine Arts, Art Gallery, Ludwig museum, Vasarely museum, Military History Institute and Museum, Hungarian Trade and Hospitality Museum, Goldberger Textile Collection-Óbuda Museum, Palace of Wonders, Paul Valley Cave
Urban Betyár Restaurant and Visitor Centre, Liget Visitor Centre, Medieval Jewish House of Prayer, Castle Garden Bazaar New World Born Exhibition, BUDATOWER Mary Magdalene Tower, CITYRAMA - Walking tour of Buda, CITYRAMA - Pest walking tour, Bicycle rental, Buda Castle Slide (only with 72h Plus card), MiniBUD airport transfer, Free public transport, chairlift at Jánoshegy

10% discount

Szamos Chocolate Manufactory, Hungarian Jewish Museum, VR Amusement park, PanicQ room

15% discount

Tropicarium, St Stephen's Basilica, Royal Castle of Gödöllő

20% discount

Szentendre Skanzen, Hungarian Millennium House - Neo Contemporary Art Square, Szemlő-mountain cave, Time Trap Escape Room, Carousel
Citysightseeing Budapest, Hop on-Hop off Budapest, Go Trabi Go, Palatinus Beach, Római Beach, Rudas Baths, Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Aquaworld, Lupa Beach, Budget Car Hire

25% discount

Rock Hospital Nuclear Bunker Museum, Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden, Circus performances at the Capital Circus of Budapest, Legend sightseeing boat

50% discount

Hungarian Railway Historical Park, Unicum House

How to buy the Budapest Card

There are several ways to purchase it, including online, at Budapest's major transport hubs, and at various hotels and tourist information offices throughout the city. The card is available in 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour versions, with prices starting at €22 for the 24-hour card.

Purchasing and utilizing the card is a simple process. The Budapest Card provides an abundance of activities and opportunities. Visiting the Hungarian capital has never been easier or more cost-effective than with the Budapest Card. This comprehensive card gives tourists access to a wide variety of activities, from exciting adventures to tranquil moments of relaxation. With great discounts and time-saving benefits, you're guaranteed an unforgettable experience in Budapest.

If you purchase the CITYRAMA Card, you'll get access to two complimentary guided city walks of Buda and Pest, as well as free admission to Szent Lukács Spa and complimentary use of the Zugligeti Goose Baths - a great bonus!

Or you can purchase it clicking here:

 

 

How to use the Budapest Card

Using the Budapest Card is easy – simply present the card at the entrance to any participating attraction to gain free entry or show it to the ticket inspector on public transport for unlimited travel. The card also includes a guidebook and map, making it easy to plan your itinerary and navigate the city.

Tips and tricks for using the Budapest Card

To make the most of your Budapest Card, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  1. Plan your itinerary in advance. Before you arrive in Budapest, take some time to research the attractions you want to visit and plan your itinerary accordingly. This will help you make the most of your card and avoid wasting time and money on activities that aren't included.
  2. Check the validity period. Make sure you're aware of the validity period of your Card, as it will expire at the end of the selected period. If you're planning to stay in Budapest for more than 72 hours, consider purchasing multiple cards to cover your entire trip.
  3. Validate the card. When you first use your Budapest Card, make sure to validate it by writing your name and the start date and time on the back of the card. This will ensure that you're not charged for public transport and that you can access all the benefits of the card.

Conclusion

The Budapest Card is an excellent value for money for travelers visiting Budapest, offering free entry to top attractions, unlimited public transport, and discounts on tours and cultural events. With prices starting at just €22, it's a must-have for anyone looking to explore the city's rich history and culture.

FAQs

Can I use the Budapest Card on night buses and trams?
Yes, it can be used on night buses and trams, as well as all other forms of public transport in the city.

Are there any restrictions on the number of attractions I can visit with the Budapest Card?
No, there are no restrictions on the number of attractions you can visit with the Card. However, it's important to note that some attractions may require advance booking or have limited availability, so it's a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance.

Is it worth buying the Budapest Card for a short stay in the city?
If you're planning to visit several top attractions and use public transport frequently, then the Budapest Card is definitely worth considering, even for a short stay. However, if you're only planning to visit a few attractions or will mostly be exploring on foot, then it may not be the best value for money.

Can I purchase the Budapest Card at the airport?
Yes, it can be purchased at the airport, either at the tourist information desk or from vending machines located throughout the terminal.

Can I share my Budapest Card with someone else?
No, the Budapest Card is non-transferable and can only be used by the person whose name is written on the back of the card. Attempting to share or transfer the card may result in the card being confiscated or invalidated.

 

For more information about the discounts offered by Budapest Card Click here.

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