Budapest’s Public Transport Ticket Machines Get a Major Upgrade
Getting around Budapest just got a whole lot easier. The city’s public transport authority, BKK (Budapesti Közlekedési Központ), has launched an ambitious modernization project that will completely transform how visitors and locals purchase their tickets and travel passes. Starting this week, the decade-old machines scattered throughout the Hungarian capital are getting a comprehensive facelift that promises faster service, better reliability, and groundbreaking accessibility features.
A Network That Serves Millions
The scope of this renovation becomes clear when you look at the numbers. Over the past ten years, BKK’s ticket machine network has processed more than 146 million transactions worth roughly 378 billion Hungarian forints. These machines have become an essential part of Budapest’s transit ecosystem, operating around the clock at major transport hubs and popular stops throughout the city. Even in an increasingly digital age, these machines still account for about 50 percent of all ticket sales, proving that travelers still value the convenience of grabbing a ticket on the spot.
The modernization kicked off on November 18, 2025, with an aggressive schedule that will see ten machines upgraded every week. By the end of this year, 50 machines will be completely refurbished at the busiest locations across Budapest. You’ll find these upgraded machines at major transit hubs like Deák Ferenc Square, Blaha Lujza Square, Nyugati Railway Station, and Kelenföld Station. The project won’t stop there—throughout 2026, the renovation will continue until every machine in the network has been modernized. Additionally, 35 brand-new machines will replace the oldest units, bringing cutting-edge technology to Budapest’s streets.
What Makes These Machines Special
This isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade. Every component of these ticket machines is being replaced, from the printer to the coin and cash handling systems to the card payment terminals. The result will be machines that work faster, break down less often, and provide a smoother experience for everyone using them.
The technical improvements go beyond just swapping out old parts for new ones. The upgraded machines will communicate through a modern cloud-based system that allows for remote monitoring and quick problem detection. When something does go wrong, maintenance teams can identify and address issues much faster than before. The new components are also designed with sustainability in mind, using energy-efficient technology and built to last longer than their predecessors.
If you’ve recently visited the Deák Ferenc Square or Oktogon metro stations, you might have already spotted some of the new-generation machines with their large, easy-to-read screens. These represent what’s coming for the entire network—machines that look modern and actually function better too.
Breaking Down Barriers
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of this renovation is the focus on accessibility. BKK worked closely with organizations representing people with disabilities, including the Hungarian Federation of the Blind and Partially Sighted (MVGYOSZ) and the National Federation of Disabled Persons’ Associations (MEOSZ), to ensure these machines work for everyone.
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The accessibility features are thoughtfully designed. When a visually impaired user connects their own headphones to the machine, it automatically activates a screen reader mode. The machine will then read aloud everything displayed on the screen—whether that’s the contents of your shopping basket or the number of tickets you’ve selected. Navigation becomes simple through left and right swipe gestures on the screen, and users can easily adjust the volume of the voice guidance.
Privacy wasn’t overlooked either. When the screen reader mode activates, the display automatically dims to protect personal information from prying eyes. These features mean that travelers with visual impairments can purchase tickets independently, without needing to ask for assistance or navigate complicated systems.
Why This Matters for Visitors
If you’re planning a trip to Budapest, these upgraded ticket machines make navigating the city’s excellent public transport system even more straightforward. Budapest’s metro, tram, and bus network is one of Europe’s most comprehensive, and having reliable ticket machines at every major stop removes one of the common frustrations of urban travel.
The machines accept both cash and card payments, giving you flexibility no matter how you prefer to pay. They’re available 24/7, which means you can buy tickets late at night or early in the morning without worrying about finding an open service center. The multilingual interface helps international visitors navigate the purchase process, and the faster, more reliable hardware means less time standing in front of a machine and more time exploring the city.
Budapest has also recently made its tourist card, the Budapest Card, available through these machines. This card offers discounts and free entry to numerous attractions, plus unlimited public transport use, making it a valuable purchase for visitors who want to make the most of their time in the city.
The Digital Balance
While BKK continues investing in physical ticket machines, they’re also expanding digital options. The BudapestGO mobile app and the Pay&GO contactless payment service now account for more than 30 percent of ticket sales, showing how travel patterns are evolving. However, the continued popularity of ticket machines—still responsible for half of all sales—demonstrates that physical purchase points remain crucial for both residents and visitors.
This dual approach gives travelers the freedom to choose how they want to buy tickets. Tech-savvy visitors might prefer using their smartphones, while others might feel more comfortable using a physical machine. Having both options ensures that everyone can access Budapest’s transport network in the way that works best for them.
The modernization project represents a significant investment in Budapest’s infrastructure and a commitment to making the city more welcoming and accessible to everyone. By the end of 2026, every ticket machine in Budapest will be either fully refurbished or brand new, ensuring that this essential service remains reliable for years to come. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Budapest traveler, these improvements mean one less thing to worry about as you explore this beautiful city along the Danube.
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