The Ultimate Guide to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)

The Ultimate Guide to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)

Overview of Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), often referred to simply as Budapest Airport, is Hungary’s largest and busiest airport. Located approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) southeast of Budapest’s city center, the airport serves as a major gateway to Central and Eastern Europe. Known for its modern facilities and passenger-friendly services, BUD is the hub for Wizz Air and a key base for international carriers.

• Location: Budapest, Hungary

• IATA Code: BUD

• ICAO Code: LHBP

• Opened: 1950

• Annual Passenger Traffic: Over 16 million (pre-pandemic levels)

• Terminals: 2 (Terminal 2A and Terminal 2B)

History of Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport

Originally opened in 1950 as Ferihegy Airport, Budapest Airport has undergone extensive renovations and expansions to accommodate modern air travel. In 2011, the airport was renamed after the famous Hungarian composer and pianist Franz Liszt (Ferenc Liszt in Hungarian) to commemorate the 200th anniversary of his birth. Today, it stands as a modern aviation hub connecting Hungary to destinations worldwide.

Terminal Layout at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport

Budapest Airport operates two main terminals, 2A and 2B, which are connected by a central SkyCourt building.

1. Terminal 2A

• Overview:

  • Primarily serves Schengen flights within Europe.

• Key Features:

  • Efficient check-in and boarding facilities.

  • A variety of shops, dining options, and lounges.

• Airlines Operating:

  • Wizz Air, Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, and others.

2. Terminal 2B

• Overview:

  • Handles non-Schengen international flights.

• Key Features:

  • Spacious departure lounges and duty-free shopping.

  • Immigration and customs services for international travelers.

• Airlines Operating:

  • Ryanair, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and others.

3. SkyCourt

• Overview:

  • Connects Terminals 2A and 2B and serves as the airport’s main commercial and passenger area.

• Key Features:

  • Houses premium shopping, dining, and relaxation options.

  • Offers panoramic views of the airfield.

Transportation Options to and from BUD

1. Public Buses

• Details:

  • Bus route 100E provides a direct connection between the airport and Deák Ferenc Square in Budapest’s city center.

  • Bus route 200E connects the airport to the Kőbánya-Kispest Metro Station (M3 line).

• Travel Time: ~35-45 minutes.

• Cost: Starting at HUF 900 (~€2.50) for the 100E airport bus.

2. Taxis

• Details:

  • Official airport taxis are operated by Főtaxi and can be booked at designated stands.

• Travel Time: ~25-35 minutes to the city center.

• Cost: HUF 8,000-10,000 (€20-30), depending on traffic.

3. Rideshare Services

• Details:

  • Services like Bolt and Uber are available at the airport for convenient and competitive pricing.

4. Airport Shuttle Services

• Details:

  • Shared shuttle buses and private transfers are available for door-to-door service.

• Cost: Starting at ~€10 per person for shared shuttles.

5. Car Rentals

• Providers:

  • Avis, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, and more.

• Pickup/Drop-off: Rental desks are located in the arrivals area of both terminals.

Parking at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport

1. Short-Term Parking (Terminal Parking)

• Details:

  • Located directly in front of Terminals 2A and 2B.

  • Ideal for quick drop-offs and pickups.

• Cost: Starting at HUF 1,000 for 30 minutes.

2. Long-Term Parking (Holiday Parking)

• Details:

  • Budget-friendly options for longer stays.

  • Shuttle service available to the terminals.

• Cost: Starting at HUF 4,000/day (~€10).

3. Premium Parking

• Details:

  • Reserved spaces near the terminal entrances.

  • Includes valet service.

• Cost: Starting at HUF 8,000/day (~€20).

4. Electric Vehicle Parking

• Details:

  • Charging stations available in the short-term and long-term parking areas.

  • Charging fees apply in addition to parking rates.

Dining and Shopping Options

Dining at BUD

• Local Hungarian Cuisine:

  • Paprika Restaurant: Offers traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash and pörkölt.

  • For Sale Pub: Authentic Hungarian snacks and craft beers.

• International Options:

  • KFC and Burger King: Quick bites for travelers on the go.

  • Côte d’Azur: French-inspired bistro dining.

Shopping at BUD

• Duty-Free:

  • Extensive selection of perfumes, cosmetics, and alcohol.

• Luxury Brands:

  • Swarovski, Hugo Boss, and Tommy Hilfiger.

• Local Specialties:

  • Shops like "Hungaricum" offer Hungarian wines, paprika, and handcrafted souvenirs.

• Essentials:

  • WHSmith and Relay for books, snacks, and travel necessities.

Lounges at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport

1. SkyCourt Lounge

• Access: Available to premium passengers and Priority Pass holders.

• Features:

  • Complimentary snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi.

  • Comfortable seating and workspaces.

2. Mastercard Lounge

• Access: Open to Mastercard Platinum cardholders and pay-per-use.

• Features:

  • Hot meals, premium beverages, and relaxation areas.

3. Platinum Lounge

• Access: Available to business class passengers and frequent flyers.

• Features:

  • Exclusive services, including showers and private meeting rooms.

Nearby Hotels

1. ibis Styles Budapest Airport Hotel

• Distance: A 5-minute walk from the terminals.

• Features:

  • Modern rooms, complimentary breakfast, and conference facilities.

2. Airport Hotel Budapest

• Distance: 5 minutes by car or shuttle.

• Features:

  • Comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and 24-hour dining options.

3. Budapest Airport Hotel Stáció Wellness & Conference

• Distance: 10 minutes by car.

• Features:

  • Spa facilities, an indoor pool, and fine dining.

Top Tips for Travelers at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport

1. Arrive Early: Allow at least 2 hours for European flights and 3 hours for long-haul flights.

2. Use Public Transport: The 100E bus is a cost-effective and direct way to reach central Budapest.

3. Try Hungarian Cuisine: Sample local dishes like goulash or chimney cake at airport restaurants.

4. Free Wi-Fi: Unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.

5. Shop for Local Souvenirs: Pick up Hungarian wines, paprika, or handcrafted items.

Future Developments at BUD

• Terminal Expansion: Plans to add a third terminal to accommodate growing passenger numbers.

• Sustainability Initiatives: Investments in renewable energy and eco-friendly infrastructure.

• Improved Connectivity: Enhancements to public transport links and road access.

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport combines efficiency, Hungarian hospitality, and modern amenities, making it a top choice for travelers. Whether you’re visiting Budapest or connecting to another destination, BUD ensures a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.