Useful Applications For Your Holiday In Budapest

Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. To make the most of your holiday in this beautiful city, consider using some helpful applications that can enhance your experience and make your trip more enjoyable.

Understanding Locals

Google Translate

When visiting Budapest, you may encounter language barriers as Hungarian is the primary language spoken. However, Google Translate can be a useful tool to help you navigate the city and communicate with locals.

One of the most convenient features of Google Translate is the camera translation. Simply point your camera at a sign, menu, or any written text, and the app will instantly translate it into English. This feature is particularly helpful when exploring the city and trying to read street signs or understand menus at restaurants.

If you don’t have an internet connection, you can still use Google Translate offline. Before your trip, download the Hungarian language pack within the app. This will allow you to translate words, phrases, and sentences without the need for an internet connection.

Another useful feature is the conversation mode. This allows you to have a basic conversation with someone who speaks Hungarian. Simply speak or type in English, and the app will translate your words into Hungarian. The other person can then respond in Hungarian, and the app will translate their words back into English for you.

Additionally, Google Translate offers a simultaneous speech translation feature called “Transcribe.” This can be particularly useful when attending tours or listening to announcements in Hungarian. Simply turn on the Transcribe feature, and the app will provide a real-time English translation of what is being said.

Google Translate also integrates with other apps on your device. If you come across a word or phrase in Hungarian while using another app, you can easily copy the text and translate it using Google Translate without having to switch between apps.

Lastly, if you need to input text in Hungarian, Google Translate supports various input methods. You can use your voice, type using the keyboard, or even handwrite characters that your keyboard may not support.

By utilizing these features of Google Translate, you can break through language barriers and more easily connect with people, places, and cultures in Budapest.

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Getting Around

Public Transportation

BudapestGO

The BudapestGO app is a user-friendly application that simplifies your journey through Budapest’s extensive public transport network. With this app, you can easily plan your trips, purchase digital tickets, and access real-time traffic information, all from the convenience of your smartphone.

One of the app’s key features is its journey planner, which provides you with the best route to your destination using real-time data. This ensures that you always know exactly when you’ll arrive, making it easier to plan your sightseeing itinerary. The app also integrates with the MOL Bubi public bike-sharing system, offering an eco-friendly alternative for exploring the city.

Purchasing tickets has never been more convenient. With BudapestGO, you can buy digital single tickets, time-based tickets, and 24/72-hour travelcards without the need to queue at ticket offices. These tickets are valid on all BKK lines, except for the airport shuttle bus 100E, public transport boat services, the Buda Castle Funicular, and the Chairlift. For those arriving at Budapest airport, the app also allows you to purchase a ticket for the Airport Express bus 100E, which connects the airport to the city center (Deák Ferenc tér).

To make your experience even more seamless, the app features a widget function that allows you to keep your tickets and travelcards on your mobile home screen for quick and easy access.

While BudapestGO is free to download, registering within the app unlocks additional features, such as the ability to save frequent destinations and purchase tickets and passes from other transport operators in Hungary.

In summary, the BudapestGO app is an essential tool for any foreign tourist visiting Budapest. It simplifies your public transport experience, allowing you to focus on exploring the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.

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MOL Bubi

If you prefer exploring the city on two wheels, the MOL Bubi bike-sharing app allows you to easily rent bicycles throughout Budapest. With the vast network of bike stations, you can conveniently pick up and drop off bikes as you navigate the city’s streets and bike lanes. Launched in 2014 by BKK, the city’s public transport company, MOL Bubi has become an integral part of Budapest’s transportation network, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative to other modes of travel.

With 211 stations strategically located throughout the city and 2,460 bikes available 24/7, MOL Bubi makes it easy for tourists to navigate Budapest’s attractions at their own pace. The service is accessible via a user-friendly mobile app, which allows you to register, purchase passes, check bike availability, and view your ride history.

Using MOL Bubi is a simple and straightforward process. After downloading the app and registering, you can purchase a pass or opt for Pay As You Go access. To start your ride, simply scan the QR code located above the rear wheel of your chosen bike. When you’ve reached your destination, be sure to close the smart lock to ensure the system registers the end of your ride.

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E-Roller Sharing Services

Lime

Getting started with Lime is easy. Simply download the Lime app, create an account, and add a valid payment method. Once you’re set up, you can locate nearby scooters using the app’s map feature. To unlock a scooter, scan the QR code on the vehicle’s display using your phone’s camera. The app will show you the local rates and any applicable fees before you start your ride.

When you’re ready to end your ride, simply park the scooter in a designated area (marked on the app’s map) and make sure it’s not blocking pedestrian pathways or building entrances. Take a photo of the parked scooter using the app, and your ride will be automatically ended, with the cost deducted from your account.

It’s important to note that there are some areas in Budapest where Lime scooters are not allowed, such as districts I, V, VI, XIII, and parts of II and III. These areas are marked in red on the app’s map, so be sure to check your destination before starting your ride.

To use Lime, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license or ID. The app charges a fixed cost to unlock each vehicle and a per-minute rate while you ride. Rates may vary depending on location and time of day, but you can always check the app for the most up-to-date pricing information.

By choosing Lime, you’re not only making your Budapest experience more enjoyable but also contributing to a more sustainable future. Lime is committed to building a world where transportation is shared, affordable, and carbon-free, helping to create healthier and happier communities.

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Tier

TIER offers a fleet of safe, affordable, and fully electric scooters. These climate-neutral vehicles allow users to contribute to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Budapest while enjoying a fun and convenient way to navigate the city.

TIER scooters are strategically placed throughout Budapest, making it easy for users to find a ride nearby and travel from point A to point B without the hassle of traffic or parking. The TIER app provides a user-friendly interface that allows users to locate, unlock, and rent a scooter with just a few taps on their smartphone.

To start a ride, users simply need to download the TIER app, sign up, and add their preferred payment method. Once they find a TIER scooter on the map, they can scan the QR code to unlock it and begin their journey. The app also offers features such as the ability to ring a scooter for easy location, store minutes and unlocks in a digital wallet, and redeem free rides with discount vouchers or promo codes.

TIER’s commitment to affordable and sustainable mobility extends to its pricing structure, with options like monthly passes and daily passes that allow users to save money and make the most of their rides. By choosing TIER, Budapest residents and visitors can embrace a car-free lifestyle, reduce their carbon footprint, and contribute to a more livable, breathable city for all.

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Whoosh

Whoosh is a popular electric scooter and bike sharing service in Budapest, Hungary, that aims to provide a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation for city residents. The company’s mission is to enable people to reach any destination within the city in just 15 minutes, filling the gap between short walks and longer rides.

To use the service, users need to install the Whoosh app on their smartphones and complete a simple registration process, which includes confirming their email, phone number, and age (only adults can use the service), as well as adding a payment method. Once registered, users can locate and rent nearby scooters by scanning the QR code on the steering wheel or selecting a scooter on the app’s map.

The app offers a free 10-minute booking period, during which users can reserve a scooter before starting their ride. One account can rent up to three e-scooters simultaneously, making it convenient for group trips. However, the account owner is responsible for all rented scooters, even if another person is riding them.

Whoosh encourages users to ride on bike paths and exercise caution on sidewalks, while avoiding roadways and dismounting at pedestrian crosswalks. The app also provides a “Lock the scooter” feature, allowing users to temporarily pause their trip without ending the rental.

To end a trip, users must park the scooter at designated parking areas marked with a “P” on the app’s map, which can be city bike parking, Whoosh branded parking, or virtual parking areas. After parking, users are required to take a photo of the scooter to confirm its condition and proper parking.

Whoosh’s pricing structure consists of a base rate, which includes a start cost and a per-minute cost, with the option to purchase insurance. In some cities, dynamic pricing applies, meaning the cost per minute may vary depending on demand.

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Car-sharing

GreenGo

GreenGo is a popular car-sharing app used in Budapest, Hungary, that offers a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate the city. The app allows users to locate, reserve, and rent electric vehicles scattered throughout the city.

After registering on the GreenGo app, users can easily find the nearest available car, check its charge level and range, and reserve it to ensure it remains available until they arrive. The app is essential for the entire rental process, from unlocking the car to reporting its interior and exterior condition before and after the rental.

The app provides a user-friendly interface for managing the rental process, including a standby parking function that allows users to keep the car at a lower minute rate if they need to make a short stop. The app also guides users through the proper steps for ending the rental, ensuring they take photos of the car’s condition and close the rental correctly.

GreenGo’s commitment to customer service is evident through their 24/7 technical assistance line and responsive customer service via email and Facebook. 

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Wigo

Wigo is a user-friendly carsharing app that has revolutionized mobility in Budapest, offering a convenient and flexible way to explore the city and beyond. With just a few taps on your smartphone, you can easily find and reserve a car nearby, making your journey smoother and more efficient.

Using Wigo is a breeze. Simply download the app, sign up, and you’re ready to start your journey. To register, you must be over 18 years old, have a valid category B driver’s license for at least one year, and possess a smartphone running iOS or Android. Wigo accepts driving licenses issued in the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Community (EEC), as well as international driving licenses that meet the app’s conditions.

One of the most appealing aspects of Wigo is the inclusion of various features in the price. When you use Wigo, you can enjoy free parking at any public parking spot within the wigo zone, as long as you adhere to the general parking rules. Refueling is also hassle-free, as you can fill up your Wigo car at partner gas stations like OMV and MOL using the fuel card provided in the glove compartment. Additionally, the base fee includes a national highway vignette, and electric models come with a Pest county highway vignette. Every trip is covered by insurance, with a damage deductible capped at 300,000 Ft, which can be further reduced to 100,000 Ft by opting for the Wigo Care add-on. All cars are equipped with built-in GPS, and most models feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for enhanced convenience.

Wigo also offers a convenient solution for travelers arriving at the airport. You can reserve your car through the app, and it will be waiting for you in the Holiday Parking, just a short walk from the terminal. After starting your trip in the app, you can drive out of the parking with the barrier automatically lifting. When you’re done exploring the city, simply park anywhere within the wigo zone, and an airport fee of 1,690 Ft will be charged upon ending your trip in the app.

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Taxi Apps

Főtaxi

The Főtaxi Taxi application is a useful tool for travelers staying in Budapest, offering a convenient and efficient way to navigate the city. This app allows users to quickly order a taxi, providing a seamless transportation experience in Hungary’s capital.

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Key features of the application include:

  • Easy ordering process: Users can specify their pickup location with just a few clicks.
  • Real-time tracking: Passengers can monitor the taxi’s location and estimated arrival time on a map.
  • Fare estimation: The app provides an expected fare calculator, helping travelers budget their transportation costs.
  • Vehicle options: Users can select from various car types, including electric and hybrid vehicles.
  • Pet-friendly transport: The application offers a pet transport function for those traveling with animals.
  • Payment flexibility: Passengers can choose to pay through the app or directly to the driver.
  • Driver communication: The app facilitates direct contact with the assigned driver.
  • Favorite addresses: Users can save frequently visited locations for quicker booking.
  • Post-trip evaluation: Passengers can rate their experience, contributing to service improvement.

The Főtaxi Taxi application is designed to enhance the travel experience in Budapest by providing a reliable and user-friendly transportation solution. It combines modern technology with local expertise to offer a comprehensive taxi service for both residents and visitors to the city.

City-Taxi Budapest

The City-Taxi Budapest mobile application offers a convenient solution for travelers staying in Budapest who require taxi services. This application provides several features that can enhance the user experience and simplify the process of ordering a taxi in the city.

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Key features of the application include:

  • Overview of available taxis in the vicinity
  • Fare calculator
  • Immediate or advance booking options
  • Vehicle selection (standard, station wagon, or 5-6 passenger capacity)
  • Re-ordering function based on previous addresses
  • Real-time tracking of the ordered taxi
  • Trip cancellation option (with cancellation fee)
  • Notification upon taxi arrival
  • In-app messaging between driver and passenger
  • Integrated payment function with registered bank cards
  • Post-service rating system

The application is designed to cater to various transportation needs, allowing users to select appropriate vehicle types and plan their trips efficiently. The fare calculator and real-time tracking features provide transparency and help users manage their travel expenses.

For travelers who may encounter language barriers, the in-app messaging function can facilitate communication with drivers. Additionally, the integrated payment system eliminates the need for cash transactions, which can be particularly useful for international visitors.

6X6 Taxi

The 6×6 Taxi company has launched a new application called Birdie, designed to enhance urban transportation for residents and visitors in Budapest. This innovative taxi-ordering app aims to streamline the personal transportation experience by offering features that cater to passengers’ needs.

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Key features of the Birdie app include:

  • Quick and simple booking process
  • Predictable pricing
  • Direct communication with drivers
  • Option to share ride costs
  • Customizable vehicle choices

The application offers various taxi types to suit different requirements:

  • Standard: Regular taxi service
  • Estate: Larger vehicles for extra luggage or passengers
  • Minivan: Ideal for groups or families
  • Child seat: Vehicles equipped with child safety seats
  • Pet-friendly: Accommodates passengers traveling with animals

Travelers in Budapest may find this application particularly useful for navigating the city efficiently and comfortably. The ability to plan trips with foreseeable costs and communicate directly with drivers can help alleviate common travel concerns. Additionally, the option to choose specific vehicle types can be beneficial for those with special requirements or larger groups.

Taxi 4

The Taxi 4 mobile application is a useful tool for travelers staying in Budapest who require efficient and reliable taxi services. This application allows users to quickly and easily order a taxi using their smartphone, providing a convenient solution for transportation needs in the city.

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Key features of the Taxi 4 application include:

  • Real-time tracking: Users can monitor the arrival of their taxi on a map in real-time, eliminating unnecessary waiting time on the street.
  • Customization options: The application allows passengers to select their preferred radio station and desired air conditioning settings for their journey.
  • Push notifications: Users receive timely updates about their taxi’s status, including when it departs and arrives at the pickup location.
  • Rating system: Passengers can rate their experience, including the driver’s performance and the cleanliness of the vehicle, helping to maintain service quality.
  • Virtual taximeter: A recent feature allows users to monitor the fare in real-time using their phone’s GPS coordinates, enhancing transparency and trust.

To use the Taxi 4 application, travelers need to download it from their respective app stores (available for both iOS and Android devices), enable GPS, and complete a brief registration process. The application is designed to be user-friendly and efficient, making it a practical choice for both short-term visitors and long-term residents in Budapest.

Taxim

Taxim is a taxi-hailing application that can be particularly beneficial for travelers staying in Budapest. The app, available for both iPhone and Android devices, offers a streamlined process for ordering taxis within the city.

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Key features of the Taxim application include:

  • Easy ordering: Users can request a taxi with just a few clicks, making the process quick and efficient.
  • Real-time tracking: Passengers can monitor their taxi’s location as it approaches the pickup point.
  • Multiple payment options: The app supports both cash and credit card payments, providing flexibility for travelers.
  • Vehicle selection: Users can choose the appropriate vehicle size based on their needs, including options for larger groups.
  • Driver communication: The application allows direct communication with the assigned driver if needed.
  • Driver ratings: Passengers can rate their experience after each trip, helping maintain service quality.
  • Multilingual support: The app is available in multiple languages, making it accessible for international visitors.
  • City-wide coverage: Taxim operates throughout Budapest, ensuring reliable transportation across the city.
  • Weather-independent service: The app proves particularly useful during unexpected weather changes, providing a convenient alternative to walking or public transport.

For travelers unfamiliar with Budapest’s layout or local transportation options, Taxim offers a convenient and user-friendly solution for navigating the city. By simplifying the taxi-ordering process and providing additional features like real-time tracking and flexible payment options, the application can enhance the overall travel experience in Budapest.

Bolt 

The Bolt taxi application offers a convenient transportation solution for travelers visiting Budapest. This ride-hailing service provides a user-friendly platform to request rides quickly and efficiently throughout the city.

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Key Features:

  • Easy Booking: Users can order a taxi with just a few taps on their smartphone, making it simple to navigate an unfamiliar city.
  • Multiple Service Options: Bolt offers various vehicle types to suit different needs, including standard taxis, larger vehicles for groups (XL Taxi), and options for travelers with children (Child Seat) or pets (Pet-friendly taxis).
  • Transparent Pricing: Fare estimates are provided before confirming the ride, allowing travelers to budget their transportation costs effectively.
  • Safety Measures: The app includes features such as an Emergency Assist button, audio trip recording, and private phone number protection to ensure passenger safety.
  • Flexible Payment Options: Users can pay securely through the app using credit/debit cards or Apple Pay, with a cash option also available.
  • Advance Booking: Travelers can schedule rides in advance, which is particularly useful for airport transfers or early morning departures.
  • Multilingual Support: The app is available in multiple languages, making it accessible for international visitors.
  • Real-time Tracking: Passengers can monitor their driver’s location in real-time, reducing wait times and uncertainty.
  • Rating System: Users can rate their experience, helping maintain service quality.

For travelers in Budapest, the Bolt app provides a reliable and efficient means of getting around the city, offering a modern alternative to traditional taxi services or public transportation. Its various features cater to different traveler needs, making it a versatile option for exploring the Hungarian capital.

Uber Taxi

Uber is a useful application for travelers staying in Budapest, offering convenient transportation options throughout the city. The app provides a range of services that can enhance the travel experience for visitors.

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Key Features:

  • Ride-hailing: Users can easily request a ride through the Uber app, eliminating the need to search for taxi stands or hail a cab on the street. This feature is particularly helpful for those unfamiliar with the city or who don’t speak the local language.
  • Variety of vehicle options: Travelers can choose from different ride types to suit their needs, including standard rides (UberX), larger vehicles for groups (UberXL), and more luxurious options (Uber Black).
  • Upfront pricing: The app provides transparent pricing information before confirming a ride, allowing travelers to budget their transportation costs effectively.
  • Airport transfers: Uber can be used for convenient transportation between Budapest Airport and the city center or other destinations within the city.
  • Advance booking: Travelers can reserve rides up to 30 days in advance, which is particularly useful for scheduled appointments or early morning flights.
  • Cashless payments: The app supports various payment methods, including credit cards and PayPal, eliminating the need to carry local currency for transportation.
  • Navigation assistance: Uber’s built-in map feature can help travelers navigate the city and track their route in real-time.
  • Multilingual support: The app is available in multiple languages, making it accessible for international travelers.

By offering these features, Uber can serve as a valuable tool for travelers seeking reliable and convenient transportation options during their stay in Budapest.

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