Special Transport Services in Budapest
Zugliget Chairlift
Nestled in the heart of the Buda Hills, the Zugliget Chairlift offers visitors a unique and thrilling way to explore the natural beauty of Budapest. This historic cable car system, which has been in operation since 1970, provides a scenic ride over the lush green forests and valleys of the Zugliget Nature Reserve.
Getting There
The Zugliget Chairlift is easily accessible by public transportation. Take the M2 (red) metro line to the Széll Kálmán tér station, and then hop on the 291 bus, which will take you directly to the chairlift’s lower station. Alternatively, you can take buses 21 or 21A from Széll Kálmán tér to Normafa to reach the upper station.
At the Lower Station
The lower station of the Zugliget Chairlift is located in the heart of the Zugliget Nature Reserve, offering a perfect starting point for hiking and exploring the area’s numerous trails. Here, you’ll find a small café and a playground, making it an ideal spot for families to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
The Ride
As you board the chairlift, prepare to be whisked away on a scenic journey through the treetops. The ride takes approximately 10 minutes and offers breathtaking views of the Buda Hills and the city skyline in the distance. Keep your camera ready to capture the stunning vistas and the unique perspective of Budapest from above.
At the Upper Station
The upper station of the Zugliget Chairlift is situated at the top of the János-hegy, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. From here, you can embark on various hiking trails that wind through the nature reserve, or simply take in the stunning scenery from one of the observation decks.
Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a unique way to experience Budapest, the Zugliget Chairlift is a must-visit attraction. With its stunning scenery, convenient location, and range of activities, it offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages and interests.
Buda Castle Funicular
For those visiting Budapest, the city’s funicular railway offers a unique and memorable experience. This historic system, which has been in operation since 1870, provides a convenient and scenic way to ascend the iconic Buda Hill.
Getting There
Located near the famous Chain Bridge, the funicular’s lower station is easily accessible from various points in the city center. The lower terminal at Clark Ádám square is easily reached from both sides of the city, especially if you are crossing the beautiful Chain Bridge from the Pest side.
At the Lower Station
As you step aboard the vintage-style cars, you’ll be whisked up the steep incline, offering stunning panoramic views of the Danube River and the stunning architecture of Pest.
The Ride
The journey to the top takes just a few minutes, but the experience is truly unforgettable. As you ascend, you’ll catch glimpses of the iconic Chain Bridge, the Roosevelt Square with the Gresham Palace across the Danube.
At the Upper Station
Once at the top, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the historic Buda Castle Quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can explore the charming narrow streets, visit the impressive Buda Castle, or simply take in the breathtaking vistas of the city from the hilltop.
The funicular is not only a practical mode of transportation but also a beloved attraction in its own right. Its vintage cars, named Gellért and Margit, and the unique experience of gliding up the hill make it a must-visit for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Budapest.
Heritage Vehicles
For visitors wanting to experience a taste of Budapest’s rich transportation heritage, the city offers a delightful way to travel back in time. Several heritage vehicle routes operated by BKK, Budapest’s public transportation company, allow tourists to journey through the Hungarian capital’s charming streets aboard vintage trams, buses, and trolleybuses from decades past.
One of the most popular heritage lines is the nostalgic Tram N2, which has been running since 1973. Riding along the banks of the Danube, this classic yellow tram treats passengers to stunning views of Budapest’s iconic landmarks like the Parliament Building and Buda Castle as it trundles across the city’s oldest subway bridges.
For those who prefer traveling by bus, the vintage Ikarus 180 bus offers a memorable experience, carrying tourists along a circular route on the N109 line showcasing Budapest’s most famous sights. Trolleybus fans can hop aboard the heritage Ikarus 280T, which provides a sustainable, zero-emission way to soak in the city’s architectural marvels along the N74 line.
With their retro designs, heritage vehicles in Budapest provide a nostalgic and authentic way for visitors to immerse themselves in the Hungarian capital’s captivating history while enjoying a one-of-a-kind sightseeing adventure.