Budapest’s Magical Light Fleet: Your Last Chance to Ride the Winter Wonderland Trams

If you’ve been walking around Budapest after dark lately, you’ve probably already seen them: trams wrapped in thousands of tiny twinkling lights, a funicular train glowing like a fairy tale carriage, and even a boat on the Danube sparkling like a floating Christmas ornament. This is the city’s beloved BKV Light Fleet — a seasonal winter tradition that turns Budapest into a real-life holiday storybook.

The 2025 Light Fleet season has been one of the most magical yet, with all the illuminated trams appearing together on the Grand Boulevard for the first time ever. But now, as January rolls in and the holiday season gently winds down, the lights are about to go out. Vízkereszt (Epiphany) is approaching, and with it comes the traditional farewell to the Light Fleet. If you haven’t ridden one yet, this is your last weekend to do it — and trust us, it’s an experience you’ll remember.

What Is the Budapest Light Fleet?

Every winter, Budapest’s public transport operator BKV transforms a small fleet of trams, the funicular railway, and even a Danube boat into a moving light show. Starting November 28, 2025, these specially decorated vehicles began their evening journeys through the city, turning ordinary commutes into something truly special.

The Light Fleet isn’t just about pretty lights — it’s a celebration of the season, a nod to local traditions, and a way for locals and visitors alike to feel the magic of Budapest in winter. The trams glide along the Grand Boulevard (Nagykörút), past historic buildings and busy squares, while the funicular carries passengers up to the Castle District, all wrapped in a warm, festive glow.

Why 2025 Was Extra Special

This year’s Light Fleet season stood out for one big reason: for the very first time, all the illuminated trams appeared together on the Grand Boulevard. On the launch evening, crowds gathered along the boulevard to watch the full fleet pass by in a dazzling parade of light, creating a breathtaking moment that felt like the city itself was celebrating.

Magical Budapest Christmas Tram Ride

Hop aboard the enchanting Budapest Christmas Tram and experience the city's holiday magic like never before IN 2025

From the classic Ganz articulated trams to the sleek Combino models, the nostalgic Tatra (T5C5K2), the Hannover-style TW6000, and the charming UV and KCSV‑7 trams, each vehicle has its own character and lighting style. Add in the glowing funicular and the sparkling Danube boat, and you have one of the most unique holiday experiences in Central Europe.

How to Ride the Light Fleet Before It’s Gone

The Light Fleet runs until January 4, 2026, so there’s still time to hop on — but not much. The best way to experience it is simply to ride a regular tram, funicular, or boat during the evening hours, when the lights are on.

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You don’t need a special ticket; normal BKV public transport tickets and passes are valid. Just check the BKV website or app for the latest schedules and routes, and look for the trams covered in tiny lights. The Grand Boulevard is a great place to spot them, but they also appear on other main lines, especially in the city center.

If you’re staying in Budapest for a few more days, try to ride at least one of the classic models — the Ganz articulated tram, the Tatra, the Hannover, or the Combino — and don’t miss the funicular up to Buda Castle. The view from the hill, with the city lights spread out below, is unforgettable, especially when the funicular itself is glowing like a Christmas train.

The End of the Season: Saying Goodbye to the Lights

In Hungarian tradition, Vízkereszt (January 6) marks the end of the Christmas season, and with it, the Light Fleet is carefully taken out of service. The thousands of tiny lamps are removed, the vehicles return to their normal livery, and the city settles into the quieter rhythm of early January.

That means the next few days are your last chance to see the Light Fleet in action. If you’ve already ridden one of the light trams, funicular, or boat, take one last photo — it’s a lovely souvenir of your Budapest winter trip. If you haven’t, make it a priority this weekend. Even a short ride through the city, with the lights dancing around you and the winter air nipping at your cheeks, feels like pure holiday magic.

Why This Tradition Is Worth Experiencing

Budapest in winter is already beautiful, with snow-dusted rooftops, steam rising from thermal baths, and the Danube reflecting the city’s lights. The Light Fleet adds another layer of charm, turning everyday public transport into something whimsical and memorable.

For tourists, it’s a perfect way to see the city at night without spending extra money. It’s also a great photo opportunity — the illuminated trams look stunning against the backdrop of Parliament, the Chain Bridge, or the Grand Boulevard’s historic buildings. And for families, it’s a simple, joyful experience that feels like a real holiday moment.

So if you’re in Budapest right now, don’t let the season pass without at least one ride on the Light Fleet. Wrap up warm, grab a hot drink, and let the twinkling trams carry you through the heart of the city one last time. When the lights go out and the fleet disappears for another year, you’ll be glad you did.