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Budapest is a city that moves — from historic castle walls to neon-lit ruin bars, there’s always something happening on both sides of the Danube. Whether you’re heading to a thermal bath or hauling your luggage after a long flight, sometimes public transport isn’t quite enough. That’s where taxis come in. This guide will help you find the best taxi in Budapest, avoid the tourist traps, and get around smoothly no matter the time of day.

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The Types and Best Taxi in Budapest for you

Taxis are a key part of getting around in Budapest, especially if you’re in a hurry, traveling late, or just want door-to-door comfort. Whether you need a quick ride across town or a pre-booked chauffeur for a business trip, Budapest has you covered. Compared to many other European cities, taxi fares here are quite reasonable — and there’s a range of services to choose from. Here are the main options:

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Types of Taxis in Budapest

These are your classic yellow cabs — operated by official taxi companies, fully regulated, and always metered. They’re easy to spot and widely available throughout the city.

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App-Based Services (Like Bolt)

Prefer to skip phone calls and language barriers? Bolt is the most popular app in Budapest, letting you book rides in just a few taps. It’s great for visiting major spots like the Parliament Building or hopping between neighborhoods.

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Chauffeur Services

Want a more upscale ride? Chauffeur services are available in central Budapest, perfect for business travelers or those looking for extra comfort. They often come with English-speaking drivers and fixed-rate bookings.

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How to Spot a Legit Taxi in Budapest

Taxis in Budapest are regulated — but not every car you see with a light on top is the real deal. Here’s how to tell the difference between a licensed cab and a tourist trap on wheels.

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Licensed Taxis

• Always bright yellow with a taxi sign on the roof.
• Company name and logo clearly visible on the doors.
• Display a license plate and a working taximeter.
• Charge fair, government-regulated rates.

If the car matches all of those? You’re good to go.

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Unlicensed Taxis

• No clear markings or company branding.
• Might pull up near tourist hot spots and try to hustle you.
• Often refuse to use the meter — and charge whatever they feel like.
• 💡 Pro Tip: If a driver won’t turn on the meter or gives you a “flat rate,” politely decline and wait for a proper cab or book through a known app.

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Which Taxi Companies Can You Trust?

Trusted Companies:

• Főtaxi – The official airport partner and one of the oldest in the city. You’ll spot their cars right outside the terminal.
• City Taxi – Known for dependable service and a big fleet that’s easy to hail.
• 6×6 Taxi – Another well-established company with a solid reputation among locals and visitors alike.

All of these companies:

• Run 24/7
• Use standard metered pricing
• Often have English-speaking drivers
• Clearly display their company logo on the side of the car

When in doubt, stick with one of these — or use an app to book directly and skip the guesswork.

Each company provides 24/7 service, with many offering English-speaking drivers to accommodate international travelers. Additionally, their vehicles prominently display their logos, making them easy to spot.

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How to Book a Taxi in Budapest

You’ve got three main ways to grab a taxi in Budapest — each one suits a different type of traveler.

Call a Taxi Company – If you’re old-school or don’t want to deal with an app, you can call a taxi company directly. Just be ready to give your pickup location and destination — bonus points if you know the street name or nearby landmark..

Use an App (Recommended) – Apps like Bolt make booking super simple. You choose the pickup point, see your fare upfront, track the car in real time, and pay right in the app. No Hungarian needed.

Hail One on the Street – Yes, you can flag down a taxi — especially in central areas. Just double-check that it’s yellow, branded with a company name, and has a working meter.

Most travelers prefer apps for the transparency and convenience — no surprises, no misunderstandings.

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How Much Does a Taxi Cost in Budapest?

Compared to other European capitals, Budapest taxis are refreshingly affordable — and pricing is regulated, so you won’t get wildly different rates between companies.

Standard Rates (in HUF and USD):

Base fare: 1,000 HUF (≈ $2.90 USD)

Per kilometer: 400 HUF (≈ $1.20 USD)

Waiting time: 100 HUF/min (≈ $0.35 USD)

These rates are fixed across all licensed taxis, so whether you use an app like Bolt or call a company like City Taxi, the price structure stays the same.

Sample Ride Costs:

• Airport to downtown Budapest: 8,000–10,000 HUF ($24–30 USD)
• Short inner-city rides: 2,000–4,000 HUF ($6–12 USD)
• To landmarks like Parliament or Buda Castle: Usually in the $6–12 USD range depending on distance and traffic

💡 Pro Tip: Always make sure the meter is running. If it’s not, that’s your cue to get out and grab a different taxi.

Rides to major landmarks: Destinations like Buda Castle, Parliament, and the Great Market Hall are common taxi routes, costing around $6-12 USD, depending on distance.

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How to Pay — and Should You Tip?

Most taxis in Budapest offer multiple payment options, so you won’t need to worry about scrambling for cash (though it’s still handy to have).

💳 Payment Options:

• Cash: Always accepted, but in Hungarian forint (HUF) only.
• Credit/debit cards: Most licensed taxis accept Visa and Mastercard. It’s still smart to ask before the ride starts.
• In-app payments: If you’re using Bolt or another taxi app, you can pay directly through your phone — no wallet required.

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated — especially for longer rides or helpful service.
A 10% tip is considered generous and customary. No need to overthink it.

💡 Pro Tip: Try to carry small bills. Some drivers may not have change for larger notes, and this is where overcharging “mistakes” sometimes happen.

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Pro Tips for a Smooth Taxi Ride in Budapest

🧾 1. Check the Meter

Always make sure the meter is running before the car pulls away. If it’s not on, politely ask — or hop out and find another taxi.

📍 2. Have Your Destination Handy

Show the address on your phone or write it down ahead of time. Hungarian street names can be tricky to pronounce, and this avoids confusion.

⏰ 3. Avoid Peak Traffic

Rush hour in Budapest typically runs from 8–10 AM and 4–7 PM. If you’re short on time, plan around it — or use the metro instead.

🚖 4. Stick to Trusted Providers

Use well-known companies or the Bolt app to avoid being overcharged or misled. Avoid random “taxis” near train stations or tourist spots.

💵 5. Carry Small Bills

Try to pay the exact fare or close to it. Some drivers may “not have change,” especially with large notes.

💡 Bonus: If you want extra peace of mind, you can even take a photo of the taxi number or license plate before the ride begins.

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Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport Transfers

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is about 20 kilometers from the city center. If you’re wondering about the best ways to get around Budapest, taxis remain a popular choice for transfers, offering both comfort and convenience.

Booking Options:

Főtaxi is the official airport taxi provider. Their stand is located just outside the terminal.

Pre-booking services through apps or private hire companies ensure a fixed rate and added convenience, particularly for ridesharing options.

Cost

Expect to pay 8,000-10,000 HUF (~$24-30 USD) for a one-way ride to the city center.

To avoid scams, stick to licensed providers and avoid drivers soliciting passengers inside the terminal, especially when arriving at a major train station in Budapest or even at the Fisherman’s Bastion or the Hungarian Parliament Building.

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How to take a taxi in Budapest with an app

Bolt (formerly Taxify)

Bolt is a popular ride-hailing app in Budapest, offering an easy and convenient way to book a taxi or private car service. It’s widely used by locals and tourists alike for its reliability and competitive pricing.

• Quick booking with real-time tracking.
• Various payment options, including cash and in-app payments.
• Multiple vehicle categories, including standard taxis and premium rides.
• Availability: The app is available on both iOS and Android devices.
• Website: Bolt

Főtaxi

Overview: Főtaxi is one of the oldest and most established taxi companies in Budapest, operating since 1913. Their app allows users to book rides quickly and efficiently, with a large fleet of taxis available throughout the city.

• Direct booking through the app with estimated arrival times.
• Option to book immediately or schedule a ride in advance.
• Payment options include cash, credit card, and in-app payments.

Availability: The app is available on both iOS and Android devices.

Website: Főtaxi

These apps are the go-to options for getting around Budapest by taxi, offering reliable service and user-friendly interfaces for both locals and visitors.

Alternatives to Taxi Service in Budapest

If taxis aren’t your preferred choice, there are many ways to get around Budapest, especially in central Budapest, where public transportation is efficient:

Public Transportation: Buses, trams, and metro lines are extensive and affordable.  For up-to-date information, check out BKK – Budapest Public Transport Information

Ride-Sharing Services: Uber is available in Budapest. After an eight-year hiatus, Uber resumed operations in the city in June 2024.

Car Rentals: Ideal for day trips outside the city.

Biking and Walking: These are some of the best ways to explore Budapest’s scenic areas and neighborhoods.

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Final Tips on Best Ways to Get Around 

Taxis in Budapest offer a practical and comfortable way to navigate the city. By choosing licensed services, being aware of standard fares, and using trusted booking methods, you can avoid common pitfalls and enjoy your travels with ease. Whether it’s a late-night ride back to your hotel or a stress-free airport transfer, understanding the ins and outs of Budapest’s taxi network will enhance your visit.

In my own experience, Bolt was the most convenient option. I always use in in Budapest and always had quick, affordable rides — no issues at all.

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In Budapest, taxi fares are regulated by the government, ensuring uniform pricing across all licensed taxi services, including Bolt. This means that whether you choose Bolt or another taxi company, the base fare and per-kilometer rates are standardized.

However, a study conducted by the Association of Conscious Consumers in June 2024 found that Bolt emerged as the most cost-effective option among the tested services.

The service now partners with local taxi companies, such as Főtaxi, to comply with Hungarian regulations.

FAQ

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✈️ Need a taxi from the airport? Check out our full guide to Budapest Airport Taxi Transfers.