Autumn Holidays in Budapest: Navigating Traffic Changes and Visiting Cemeteries

As the autumn holidays approach, many Budapest residents are preparing to visit cemeteries to honor their loved ones on All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. With the increased traffic and changes in public transportation, it’s essential to plan ahead to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. In this article, we’ll discuss the traffic changes, transportation options, and tips for navigating the city during this busy time.

School Holidays and Public Transportation

From October 28th to 31st, schools in Budapest will be closed for the autumn holidays. During this period, public transportation will operate according to the school holiday schedules. On November 1st, which is All Saints’ Day, the public transportation system will follow the holiday and Sunday schedules. It’s important to keep these changes in mind when planning your travel.

Visiting Cemeteries

To accommodate the increased number of visitors to cemeteries during this time, the Budapest Transport Center (BKK) will be providing additional services and special transportation options from October 26th to November 3rd. These include more frequent service, larger capacity vehicles, and temporary traffic arrangements around the cemeteries.

Getting to the New Public Cemetery

The New Public Cemetery (Új köztemető) is one of the most visited cemeteries during the autumn holidays. To help visitors reach the cemetery more easily, BKK recommends the following options:

• Tram 28 from Blaha Lujza Square and Tram 37, which will run to the cemetery every day during this period.
• Tram 28B, a special service running between Keleti Railway Station and the New Public Cemetery on November 1st and 2nd.
• Buses 68, 202E, and 268 from Kőbánya-Kispest metro station.
• Buses 95 and 195 from Puskás Ferenc Stadion metro station, which will operate on a modified route during the holiday period.

Traffic Changes around the New Public Cemetery

From October 28th at 8:00 AM to November 1st at 8:00 PM, a section of Újhegyi Road will be open only to public transportation vehicles. Additionally, Sírkert Road will be made one-way towards Kozma Street. A section of Kozma Street from Jászberényi Road to the roundabout will also be restricted to public transportation vehicles only from October 28th at 7:00 AM.

Visiting Other Cemeteries

BKK has provided information on how to reach other cemeteries in Budapest using public transportation during the autumn holidays:

• Farkasréti Cemetery: More frequent service on Trams 59 and 59A from Széll Kálmán Square and Déli Railway Station, as well as on Buses 8E and 53.
• Óbuda Cemetery: Increased frequency on Buses 160 and 260, along with special Bus 118B running between Szentlélek Square and Óbuda Bus Garage.
• Megyeri Cemetery: More frequent service on Buses 30A, 196, 30, 230, and 147, with Bus 122E also stopping at the cemetery when heading towards Káposztásmegyer between October 28th and 31st.
• Rákospalota Cemetery: Increased frequency on Buses 196, 196A, 231, and 231B, as well as Tram 69 and Bus 130.
• Pesterzsébet Cemetery: Buses 2B, 36, 52, and 135, with special Bus 36B running between Gubacsi Road/Határ Road and Szentlőrinci Road Housing Estate on November 1st and 2nd.
• Kispest Cemetery: More frequent service on Buses 93, 93A, and Tram 42, along with Buses 132E, 142E, 194, and 194B.
• Pestszentlőrinc Cemetery: Increased frequency on Buses 93, 93A, 182, 184, 182A, 198, 217, 217E, 282E, and 284E on November 1st and 2nd.
• Csepel Cemetery: Buses 38, 38A, 138, 238, and 278, as well as suburban buses towards Halásztelek and Szigetszentmiklós, will use larger, articulated vehicles during the holiday period.
• Fiumei Road Cemetery: Accessible by Trams 23 and 24, as well as Trams 28, 28A, and 37 from Kőbánya. Special Tram 28B will run between Keleti Railway Station and the New Public Cemetery on November 1st and 2nd.
• Kozma Street Jewish Cemetery: Tram 28 from Blaha Lujza Square and Buses 68 and 268 from Kőbánya-Kispest metro station.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

To ensure a comfortable and stress-free visit to the cemeteries during the autumn holidays, consider the following tips:

• Use public transportation: With limited parking and increased traffic around the cemeteries, it’s best to rely on public transportation. BKK has provided ample options and increased service to accommodate visitors.
• Plan your route: Use the BudapestGO app or the BKK Info website to plan your journey in advance. These resources provide real-time information on traffic changes, temporary arrangements, and the best routes to reach your destination.
• Allow extra timIntroductione: With the increased number of visitors to the cemeteries, it’s wise to allow extra time for your journey to account for potential delays or crowding.
• Be respectful: Remember that many people are visiting the cemeteries to pay their respects to loved ones. Be mindful of others and maintain a quiet and respectful atmosphere.

Conclusion

The autumn holidays in Budapest bring a time of remembrance and honoring loved ones who have passed away. By understanding the traffic changes, utilizing the enhanced public transportation services, and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free visit to the cemeteries. Remember to be respectful and patient during this busy time, and cherish the moments spent remembering and celebrating the lives of those we hold dear.

Image source: BKK