Taxi Budapest – A Price and Booking Guide

Taxi Bambino team
Aug 18
3 min read

Budapest is one of Europe’s most stunning capitals, split by the Danube and full of history, nightlife, and thermal baths. While public transport is extensive, sometimes a taxi in Budapest is the easiest option—especially when traveling at night, with luggage, or heading to the airport. Knowing taxi prices in Budapest and how to book safely will help you avoid scams and make your journey stress-free.

Taxi Prices & How They’re Set

Taxi fares in Budapest are regulated by the city, so official taxis must display the rates clearly on the passenger side window. All licensed taxis are yellow and required to use a meter.

Typical fares include:

Base fare: 1000 HUF (approx. €2.60)
Per km charge: 400 HUF (approx. €1.05)
Per minute waiting: 100 HUF (approx. €0.25)

Unlike some cities, there are no night, weekend, or holiday surcharges—the fare structure remains the same at all times. However, extra fees may apply for larger vehicles or special services.

Booking & Practical Tips

You can hail a taxi on the street, but in Budapest it’s strongly recommended to book through trusted channels.

Ways to book a taxi in Budapest include www.taxibambino.com:

Taxi apps: Bolt and Főtaxi are the most reliable apps in the city
Phone booking: Major taxi companies like City Taxi and Főtaxi offer 24/7 dispatch numbers
Online booking: Pre-booking is especially useful for airport transfers Budapest

Why pre-book?

Guaranteed pickup at your hotel or Budapest Airport
Option for larger vehicles with more space for luggage or strollers
Fixed fare for certain journeys (e.g. airport transfer) rather than relying on the meter

Safety & Family Considerations

For families and visitors, using a safe taxi Budapest service is key. Licensed taxis are:

Yellow with company name and license number clearly displayed
Equipped with air conditioning and seatbelts
Often have English-speaking drivers, especially in tourist zones

For groups or families:

Larger vans are available on request
Some providers can arrange child seats if booked in advance
Vehicles are accessible for strollers and suitable for traveling with children

Taxi Ranks & Pickup Points

Budapest has official taxi stands across the city where you can safely catch a cab:

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) – official Főtaxi rank outside both terminals
Keleti & Nyugati Train Stations – designated taxi stands at the main exits
City center & hotels – many hotels can order a taxi directly for guests
Tourist areas – stands near Deák Ferenc Square, Váci Street, and Buda Castle

⚠️ Tip: Avoid unlicensed drivers offering rides around airports or nightlife spots. Always choose an official yellow taxi or use an app.