There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Budapest into a quick city adventure. From BUD, the 100E Airport Express Bus can get you into town in around 100 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Before You Step Outside BUD
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at BUD:
First, verify that you can enter Hungary — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the 100E Airport Express Bus takes about 100 minutes into Budapest, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — HUF is the currency here. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
How to Spend Your Time in Budapest
For a layover visit to Budapest, we’d suggest Hungarian Parliament Building and Széchenyi Chain Bridge. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside BUD, you can spend time at Plaza Premium Lounge or try Heinemann Duty Free Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Budapest: Karaván Street Food Market and Retro Langos Budapest. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Gourmet Bar & Restaurant or Leroy Bistro. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How to Get Into Budapest
The most straightforward way into Budapest is the 100E Airport Express Bus, which takes about 100 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 120 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the 100E Airport Express Bus is usually the smarter call.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Budapest layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$6 |
| Meal | ~$11 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$27 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage at BUD
You can store your luggage at Terminal 2B, ground floor, near the arrivals exit. Operated by Left Luggage Budapest.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Budapest as well.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and BUD is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Budapest and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, BUD has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Budapest count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave BUD. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.