Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) – Overview, Flights & Transport

Recommendation: secure lounge access or arrive early to cut waiting hours. Lounges at BUD are stocked with coffee, juice, and light snacks, and some offer massages to refresh you before an in-flight connection. In addition, check the lounges page for locations and access rules.

The airport sits at ferihegy, about 16 kilometers south of central Budapest and serves as the main hub for international and domestic flights. The facility comprises two terminals, 2A and 2B, with a shared arrivals hall and a clear signposted floor layout across both halls. Passengers pass through secure areas quickly thanks to compact corridors and intuitive wayfinding.

Airlines ranging from Wizz Air and Ryanair to Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines operate flights to Europe, the Middle East, and select long-haul destinations. Each day schedules span dozens of departures from 2A and 2B; consult the page for current routes, hours, and gate assignments. Many shops sell essentials and souvenirs, with duty-free areas stocked with products ranging from cosmetics to local snacks.

Getting to and from BUD is straightforward. outside the terminals you find taxi ranks, bus stops, and an airport shuttle option to central Budapest, with travel times typically 20–40 minutes depending on traffic. A nearby rail link and frequent city buses connect the complex to districts across the metro area. If you rent a car, rental desks line the floor near arrivals for quick pickup after landing.

Shops and eateries cover a broad range. Cafes offer coffee and juice, with options stocked for quick pickup or sit-down breaks. Shops sell souvenirs, electronics, and japanese brands, while the lounges on the upper floors provide massages and comfortable seating for longer waits before your next flight. The floor plans and a dedicated page help you navigate quickly to lounges, gates, or the outside pickup zone.

For practical planning, pin an itinerary on the page of the airport’s official site, and keep an eye on real-time check-in desks. This approach helps you optimize the time spent in hall areas, if you have connections; you can plan your step by step path across the terminals and find the quickest route to lounges or gates on any given floor.

Overview of BUD layout, terminals, and passenger services

Head to the central hub and check your flight online to confirm the gate before you move.

The airport’s layout is unique in its central connectivity: Terminal 2A and Terminal 2B connect through a shared central zone that houses the main check-in area and transfer corridors. The central hub keeps routes straightforward and wide, reducing walking distances and making arrivals and departures intuitive.

Floor plan highlights: Arrivals sit on the ground floor; Departures occupy the upper floor. Signage, staff, and digital boards guide you where to go, and image-based signs help you navigate even during busy periods.

• Terminals and connections: Terminal 2A and 2B share a common check-in area; a short central walkway links them, so you can switch without backtracking.
• Floor access and routing: Escalators, elevators, and ramps connect floors; clearly marked routes support limited mobility and luggage.
• Locations and signs: Multilingual boards point to flight information displays, duty shops, lounges, and the wellness area; the central signage is designed for quick reading as you move.
• Online tools and flight data: Use online maps and ifly for live statuses, gate locations, and directions; screens update with flight locations in real time.

Passenger services and experiences: The centre offers a wellness zone with massage chairs and quiet rooms. There are showers and changing facilities for a comfortable stay between flights, and youve got options to relax before your next leg.

• Wellness and massage: dedicated spaces provide massage chairs and private rooms for a quick refresh; the wellness area is easy to reach from both terminals.
• Food, dining, and noodles: A wide range of options includes noodles stalls, bistros, and cafés; convenient for a fast bite or a longer stay.
• Duty-free and shopping: Duty-free shops and local Hungarian products offer good value; you may find limited-time offers during peak hours.
• Business and lounges: A business centre and several lounges serve travelers with workspaces, charging stations, and quiet zones; some lounges are accessible via online booking or programs.
• Connectivity and online services: Free wifi, online check-in, and digital information desks help you stay connected; ifly maintains live flight data for quick checks.
• Flight connections and locations: The layout supports flights to istanbul and to other destinations; signs show gate locations and where to transfer for a smooth connection.
• Waiting areas and comfort: ample seating near gates, with dedicated quiet spaces and family areas; high-traffic zones provide extra outlets and more space to stay comfortable.
• Other services and tips: information desks, nursing rooms, and a centre-focused approach to movement save time; use the central zone to access all locations quickly.

Check live flight status, arrivals and departures at BUD

Check live status directly on the official Budapest Airport page before heading to the terminal, which helps you coordinate your travel and avoid surprises.

In the Flight Status page, search by flight number, airline, or date to see current status, the terminal, the gate, and any delays.

Enroll for alerts online to receive updates by email or SMS as your flight moves from boarding to departure, or from arrival to baggage claim.

On-site screens in the hall and at the windows display screening and gate changes; if you have a transfer, check the information boards between concourses.

Wi-fi is available in public areas, lounges, and the main halls, so you can work or relax while tracking your flight and directions to your next step.

For a comfortable wait, known hotels near BUD offer wellness spaces and luxury options; check their online portals for tickets, transfers, and shuttle routes.

Between arrivals and departures, use the wide concourses, terrace viewpoints, and large screens to stay informed; this helps you plan boarding on time.

Which terminal for Schengen vs Non-Schengen flights at BUD

Go to Terminal 2A for Schengen flights and Terminal 2B for Non-Schengen flights. Check your booking information or paper ticket for the exact terminal, and contact the airline if youre not sure.

Within the Terminal 2 complex, each hall has its own check-in zones, security, and gates. It’s interesting that both halls offer similar services, including shops, cafes, information desks, and lounges. The signs are clear, light is generous, and there are windows that let in natural light. The facilities include lounges and information desks. There are belts for baggage claim near the gates, so you can follow your bags through to the belt as your plane approaches.

There’s a covered connection between 2A and 2B inside the complex, so you can move through without stepping outside. Sometimes you move slightly through a short tunnel, and there are transfer sections marked for international departures to help you navigate quickly.

For Non-Schengen departures, you’ll pass passport control in 2B; Schengen departures stay inside the Schengen area and proceed from security to the gates. Always have your ID or passport ready, and check the information screens for your gate and the latest statuses. Whether youre flying for business or leisure, this distinction matters for the ground process.

Practical tips: you can book a taxi in advance at the ground transport desks or online; taxis are outside both halls. If you want extra help, contact an information desk in your hall. Youve got options to relax by the windows or in lounges while you wait. You never have to rush your steps when you know which terminal you need and how to move between sections.

From BUD to Budapest city center: rail, bus, taxi and rideshare options

Take the 100E direct bus from the airport to Deák Ferenc tér for the simplest, most predictable link to central Budapest. The ride usually takes 35–45 minutes, depending on traffic, and it runs from early morning until late evening. Buy a ticket at the airport from machines or counters, or via the mobile app, then print or store the ticket on your phone. This option is ideal if you want to arrive ready to start sightseeing or head straight to your hotel without transfers, even if you arrive late.

Rail option involves a transfer, but it can be economical if you’re staying near a rail stop or want to avoid road traffic. Use a short airport transfer to a rail station, then continue by suburban rail toward central Budapest to Keleti or Nyugati stations. Check the latest departures and platform information before you go, and be prepared for a slower journey during peak hours. This route is open and can be a good fit for travelers who enjoy a steadier pace and want to learn more about the city’s transit.

The 200E bus to Kőbánya-Kispest and the connecting M3 metro into the heart of the city offer a reliable, budget-friendly route for travelers who don’t mind a transfer. Typical travel time is about 40–50 minutes, and you’ll need to buy a single-ticket that covers both bus and metro segments. Tickets can be bought at machines, via the official app, or from a staffed counter. This route keeps you within central districts and is a solid choice for a first-time trip, especially if your flight arrives during daytime departures.

If you prefer a door-to-door option, a taxi or a rideshare is the most convenient choice. Official taxis stand outside Arrivals and use a meter; fares to central Pest or Buda generally range from 7,000 to 12,000 HUF, with typical travel times around 25–40 minutes. You can book in advance through the airline desk, a rideshare app, or the taxi firm’s website to lock in a rough price. Both cash and card are commonly accepted, but confirm the payment method and any extra charges before you depart. For groups, rideshare can be a good balance of price and comfort, and you’ll often arrive sooner than by bus in heavy traffic. If you’re checking flights from istanbul or other hubs, you’ll still find these options handy for a quick start in the city.

Rail and bus connections

There isn’t a single nonstop rail line to the heart of Budapest; instead, you’ll likely combine a short transfer with MÁV or HÉV services toward central stations like Keleti or Nyugati. This is open and practical for travelers staying near rail stops, with three key benefits: lower cost, ease of transfer, and a chance to glimpse local life during the ride. Always check departures and platform screens before you head out, and consider istanbul–connected itineraries if your flight path includes that hub.

Practical tips for a smooth transfer

Learn the typical fare ranges and transfer steps to avoid surprises. If you’re disabled, ask about assistance in advance; airport staff can arrange help at Arrivals and escort you to the curb. Early planning helps, and you can book a ride via the app or at the help desk to compare options. Three quick checks help you move faster: check your pickup point, verify your fare or pass, and check the departures board for any gate or platform changes. The main terminals offer nearby amenities, including coffee shops and a massage corner, so you can refresh before you continue. Whether you’re catching a flight to a Schengen destination or arriving from a non-Schengen country, these options provide a three main ways to reach the central Budapest area with confidence, and they’re all designed to be ready for your arrival. They’re available to book now, and you can print or keep your ticket on your phone for quick access when you land. There’s always a path that fits your three needs: quieter, cheaper, or fastest–you can tailor it to your schedule and departures status.

Car parking options at BUD: short-term, long-term, and pricing

Book online in advance and choose a covered spot near the terminals to minimize time arriving here. Use your phone to track time, compare online rates, and avoid queues at the gate.

Short-term parking

Located within a short walk to the terminals (typically 5–7 minutes), this option is ideal for quick drop-offs or top-ups before a flight. Covered sections help protect your car from weather and make a smooth start through the doors. Typical rates start around €2.50 per hour, with a daily cap near €25. You can pay online or at the gate, and charging points are available in the covered bays. If you’re staying at nearby hotels, some offer park-and-ride packages, making this a convenient choice for a fast departure. Food court restaurants, including noodles stalls, are accessible on foot, so you can grab a snack sweet or savory before you fly.

Long-term parking and pricing

Best for stays extending beyond a few days, with options that connect to terminals via a short shuttle (roughly 10–15 minutes). Long-term lots include covered and semi-covered bays, helping you protect your vehicle during your trip. Typical daily rates range from €12 to €20, and discounts are often available for 3–7 day stays or longer when you book online. Booking online guarantees a space and simplifies check-in, while assistance from staff is available if you arrive outside normal hours. This option is popular with budget travelers and is a practical choice for flights operated by airlines serving multiple cities, including Wizz and others. For EV users, charging is offered in select zones, so check online for the latest charging points and power levels before you arrive.

Parking Type	Proximity to Terminal	Covered	Typical Rate	Daily Cap	Booking	Notes
Short-term	5–7 minutes walk	Yes (in main bays)	€2.50 per hour	~€25	Online recommended	Best for pickups; charging points in covered bays
Long-term	10–15 minutes by shuttle	Some zones	€12–€20 per day	N/A	Online booking	Discounts for multi-day stays; security patrols
EV charging zones	In select lots	Partial	Charging per kWh (varies)	N/A	Online	Check power options; ranging from 3.6 to 22 kW

Parking booking, payment methods and time-saving tips at BUD

Book online in advance to secure a space near the terminal and shave minutes off your transfer.

Booking options and proximity

Online booking shows live availability, distance to the terminal and the fare. Short-stay parking sits adjacent to the terminals, while Long-stay options are a short ride away. Pre-booking usually saves money versus drive-up rates, especially during springtime when visitors fill the center. If youve got tight connections for multiple destinations, pick the lot closest to your gate to save steps and time. If you fly with several airlines, the closest parking option helps you reach the right terminal quickly. A quick photo of your parking zone can help you locate your car later, and you can plan a fast return to the plane after a snack or a coffee. There are waters and juice at nearby outlets, and you can grab a bite before you head to the gate. Please note: availability can change by day, so booking ahead is wise.

Payment methods and time-saving tips

Payment methods include credit and debit cards and contactless payments; many options support mobile wallets. You can prepay online or pay on exit; prepay speeds your departure. The data on the official page shows the discount for online bookings and the fastest exit path. Keep your booking reference handy and, if license plate recognition is available, your car may exit automatically. If youve changed your plans, you can adjust or cancel through the portal before the deadline. Time-saving tips: arrive with enough time to park and walk to the terminal; choose the closest lot to save a shorter walk; use the center shops for a snack or a glass of wine, juice or water before you head to the gate. For late departures, prepay to skip queues; youve got this covered if you stay organized and plan ahead.