BKV Light Fleet Returns to Budapest for the 2025 Holiday Season
Budapest transforms into a winter wonderland each November when the city’s iconic BKV Light Fleet begins its seasonal journey through the streets. This beloved tradition brings magical illuminated trams, a funicular, and a boat to the Hungarian capital, creating one of the most unique holiday experiences in Central Europe.
Starting November 28, 2025 at sunset, the festive fleet departs from the Hungária depot on Brüll Alfréd Street and embarks on its enchanting route through the city. This year brings an extra special moment: for the first time ever, all light trams will appear simultaneously on the Grand Boulevard (Nagykörút), creating a breathtaking spectacle of synchronized holiday lights along one of Budapest’s most famous thoroughfares.
Event Details
- Launch Date: November 28, 2025 at sunset
- Season Duration: November 28, 2025 – January 4, 2026
- Launch Location: Hungária Depot, Brüll Alfréd utca 1, Budapest
- Operating Hours: Evening hours during sunset
- Admission: Regular BKV public transport tickets and passes are valid
- Fleet: 7 illuminated trams, 1 cogwheel railway, 1 boat
- Special Feature: All light trams appear simultaneously on the Grand Boulevard for the first time
The Fleet of Illuminated Vehicles
The 2025 Light Fleet features seven spectacular trams, each decorated with thousands of twinkling lights and festive decorations. The carefully decorated vehicles cruise through Budapest’s main streets and boulevards during evening hours, offering passengers and spectators alike a chance to experience the city’s holiday spirit from a unique perspective.
- UV Light Tram: The legendary vintage model that started the tradition
- Combino: Modern tram wrapped in contemporary light displays
- TW6000: The green light favorite with distinctive illumination
- ICS: The iconic yellow tram dressed in its holiday finest
- KCSV-7: Adorned with light garlands and festive cheer
- T5C5K2: One of downtown’s most beautifully decorated light trams
Beyond the Trams
The Light Fleet extends beyond street-level transportation. Adventure seekers can climb into the Buda Hills aboard the illuminated cogwheel railway (fogaskerekű), which offers stunning panoramic views of the lit-up city below as it ascends the hillside. The gentle ascent provides a romantic escape from the bustling streets while maintaining the magical atmosphere of twinkling lights.
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For those who prefer waterfront views, the Light Boat glides along the Danube River, its festive decorations reflecting off the water’s surface. This floating member of the fleet provides a completely different vantage point of Budapest’s illuminated bridges and riverside landmarks, combining the city’s natural beauty with holiday enchantment.
Planning Your Light Fleet Experience
The official launch takes place on November 28 at sunset, with all vehicles departing from the Hungária depot. The synchronized appearance on the Grand Boulevard happens shortly after departure, making this opening evening particularly special for photography enthusiasts and holiday lovers.
The Light Fleet operates throughout the winter season until January 4, running during evening hours when the lights create the most dramatic effect against the darkening sky. Regular tram tickets and public transport passes are valid on the light trams, making this festive experience accessible to all visitors exploring Budapest.
The Grand Boulevard route offers numerous viewing spots, with major intersections and stops providing excellent opportunities to photograph the illuminated vehicles. Popular locations include Oktogon, Blaha Lujza Square, and the Western Railway Station area, where the trams pass frequently and the surrounding architecture enhances the festive atmosphere.