BKK Introduces Combined Tickets for the Buda Castle Funicular and Danube Cruises

Foreign visitors to Budapest now have an exciting new way to immerse themselves in the city’s iconic landmarks. Starting March 1, a combined ticket offers access to two unforgettable experiences: the historic Budavári Sikló (Buda Castle Funicular) and the BKV sightseeing boats that glide along the Danube. This innovative package blends Budapest’s engineering heritage with its breathtaking river vistas, creating a seamless adventure for tourists eager to explore the city’s UNESCO-listed wonders.

A Ride Through Time: The Buda Castle Funicular

Operational since 1870, the Budavári Sikló is more than a mode of transport—it’s a living piece of history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site (designated in 1987) connects the Danube’s banks to the Buda Castle District, ascending 50 meters over a 95-meter track. Its vintage-style cars, rebuilt in 1986 after WWII destruction, evoke the elegance of Budapest’s past while offering modern safety standards. As the funicular climbs, passengers are treated to panoramic views of the Danube, Margaret Island, and landmarks like the Fisherman’s Bastion and Gresham Palace.

The funicular’s lower station at Clark Ádám tér (near the Chain Bridge) is easily accessible, and its upper station sits between the Royal Palace and Sándor Palace. With departures every 5–10 minutes from 8 AM to 10 PM, it’s a convenient and picturesque way to reach the Castle District’s cobblestone streets.

Cruising the Danube: A New Perspective

Complementing the funicular experience, the BKV sightseeing boats offer a unique way to admire Budapest’s skyline. These vessels operate on a circular route between Kossuth Lajos tér and Petőfi tér, passing under iconic bridges and alongside historic sites like the Parliament Building and Várkert Bazár. The hop-on-hop-off service stops at key points, including Margitsziget Centenáriumi emlékmű and Batthyány tér, allowing passengers to explore at their own pace.

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A Seamless Ticket for Seamless Exploration

The new combined ticket simplifies planning for visitors:

• Full-price ticket: 6,500 HUF (includes round-trip funicular ride + boat cruise)
• Discounted ticket: 2,500 HUF (ages 3–14)

Tickets can be purchased at the funicular’s lower/upper stations or onboard the boats, exclusively via card payment. Valid for 30 days, they provide flexibility for travelers juggling multiple attractions. Note that the ticket excludes evening cruises, so daytime exploration is ideal8.

Why This Matters for Tourists

Budapest’s UNESCO-listed sites—like the Buda Castle District and Danube skyline—are celebrated for their architectural and historical significance. The combined ticket bridges these landmarks, offering a cost-effective and efficient way to experience both the vertical charm of the funicular and the horizontal grandeur of the Danube. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this package transforms a logistical challenge into a memorable journey.

Practical Tips

• Timing: The funicular runs until 10 PM, but boats operate on daytime schedules.
• Accessibility: The funicular’s lower station is a short walk from the Várkert Bazár boat dock, streamlining transfers.
• Planning: Use the 30-day validity to spread your exploration across multiple days, avoiding crowds.

As Budapest continues to blend tradition with innovation, this combined ticket reflects the city’s commitment to making its treasures accessible. Whether you’re ascending the Castle Hill or drifting along the Danube, every moment feels like a step into a storybook—now more affordable and convenient than ever.