The Budapest Card is one of the most practical tools for travelers exploring the Hungarian capital. Budapest is a city built for discovery — from its bridges and baths to its cafés and castles — yet visiting every attraction can quickly become expensive. However, this official city pass helps you save both time and money while moving freely through the city.
What Is the Budapest Card?
The Budapest Card is the city’s official pass, designed to simplify sightseeing and reduce costs. It’s offered by the Budapest Festival and Tourism Center and includes a powerful mix of free entries, unlimited public transport, and generous discounts.
There are several versions — 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours — so you can choose based on your stay. Once activated, it works as an all-access key to the best of the city.
Moreover, it covers unlimited travel on public transport: metros, trams, buses, and even the 100E airport line. This feature alone can save frequent travelers a substantial amount.
What’s Included in the Card?
The Budapest Travel Pass opens doors to dozens of attractions. Here are the highlights:
- Unlimited public transport — trams, metros, buses, and suburban lines within the city.
- Free entry to major museums like the Hungarian National Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, and Budapest History Museum.
- Free guided walking tours — one through Buda, another through Pest.
- Discounts at Rudas Baths and Gellért Thermal Bath.
- Reduced prices at St. Stephen’s Basilica Dome View and on Danube River Cruises.
- Up to 50% off at selected cafés and restaurants.
In addition, every card includes a printed guide and map to help you plan your route.
Prices of the Budapest Card
Prices vary depending on duration:
- 24-hour: €33
- 48-hour: €49
- 72-hour: €63
- 96-hour: €77
- 120-hour: €92
Although rates may change slightly, the structure remains similar. Considering that one museum ticket costs around €10 and a single metro ride €1.20, visiting just two attractions a day already justifies the card’s value.
When the Budapest Card Is Worth It
The Budapest Card pays off for travelers who love culture and efficiency. If you’re planning to visit the Museum of Fine Arts, the Hungarian National Museum, and Vajdahunyad Castle in a single trip, you’ll save money immediately.
Furthermore, free transport between Buda and Pest means you can explore more while spending less. The included walking tours cover essential sites such as Heroes’ Square and the Hungarian Parliament Building — an excellent start for first-time visitors.
When It Might Not Be Worth It
However, the City Pass Budapest may not fit every travel style. If your ideal trip is slow — sipping coffee, wandering ruin bars, or exploring freely — then individual tickets might be cheaper.
In contrast, long-term visitors may prefer a standard transport pass, such as the 15-day Travelcard, and pay individually for a few museums. Nevertheless, the Budapest Tourist Card still provides peace of mind: no need to queue for tickets or count coins for the tram.
Comparing the Budapest Card with Other Passes
Across Europe, many capitals offer similar cards, yet few are as complete. For instance, most passes focus only on museums and skip transport. The Budapest Card includes both.
Moreover, it grants two guided walking tours — a rarity among European city passes. If you want an even deeper experience, join our Budapest Walking Tour for hidden stories and local perspectives that complement what the pass covers.
Therefore, for convenience and mobility, Budapest’s version stands among the best.
Where to Buy It
You can purchase the Budapest Card online or at major tourist information centers such as:
- Liszt Ferenc Airport (Terminals 2A & 2B)
- Deák Ferenc Square Tourist Info
- Keleti and Nyugati Railway Stations
- Most large hotels and ticket desks
After purchase, you may choose a physical card or an e-card version on your phone. Once activated, time starts counting immediately.
How to Make the Most of Your Card
To maximize your Budapest Card, plan ahead:
- Combine nearby attractions like City Park (Városliget), Széchenyi Thermal Bath, and Heroes’ Square.
- Start early to enjoy a full first day.
- Use public transport often; short rides add value quickly.
- Carry your ID, as inspectors may ask for it.
- Check opening hours — several museums close on Mondays.
Additionally, download offline maps or the Budapest Card app to locate partners and discounts instantly.
Alternatives and Free Experiences
Even without the Budapest Card, you can enjoy plenty of free attractions. The Fisherman’s Bastion, Citadella Viewpoint, and Liberty Square are all free to enter.
Also, our Budapest Walking Tour lets you experience the city through the eyes of locals, connecting architecture, stories, and culture without needing a pass.
So… Is the Budapest Card Worth It?
Ultimately, yes — the Budapest Card is worth it for travelers eager to see as much as possible. The combination of free museum entries, unlimited transport, and discounts creates an easy, stress-free way to explore.
Above all, it grants freedom. You can cross the Danube by tram, dive into history at the museums, or relax in a thermal bath without thinking about tickets.
However, if you prefer slow exploration, you can always build your own rhythm. Yet for most visitors, the Budapest Card is the smartest shortcut through a city that rewards curiosity.
And when you want to go beyond discounts and experience real local stories, join our Budapest Walking Tour — where every step adds a new layer of meaning to your journey.
