Changes in Budapest’s Public Transportation System in 2025

The Budapest Transport Center (BKK) is set to implement significant changes to its product portfolio and the MOL Bubi bike-sharing service starting January 2025. These modifications aim to simplify the ticketing system and improve the overall public transportation experience in the Hungarian capital.

Simplification of BKK’s Product Portfolio

In line with the tariff alliance that came into effect on March 1, 2024, BKK continues to streamline its ticket and pass offerings. From January 7, 2025, several changes will be implemented:

Discontinued Passes

• Half-monthly, quarterly, semester, and discounted annual Budapest passes for students in public education
• Quarterly, semester, and discounted annual Budapest passes for higher education students
• Quarterly and discounted annual Budapest passes for pensioners
• Budapest 24-hour group ticket

Free Pet and Bicycle Transport

The dog and bicycle passes will be discontinued. Instead, passengers with valid passes or those eligible for free travel will be able to transport one dog and one bicycle per person free of charge within Budapest on trains, HÉV (suburban railway), and inter-city and suburban buses.

MOL Bubi Bike-Sharing Service Updates

The MOL Bubi bike-sharing service, celebrating its 10th anniversary, continues to grow in popularity and expand its network. Key changes and developments include:

New Stations

• Five new collection stations added in December 2024 in districts VIII, IX, XI, and XIII
• Three more stations to be added in early 2025, bringing the total to 220 bicycle pickup locations

Pricing and Pass Changes

• Monthly pass price increased to 1500 HUF
• Per-minute rental fee raised to 50 HUF
• Introduction of a six-month pass for 6500 HUF, replacing the annual pass
• Reduction of bank card registration fee to 100 HUF, credited on the first rental

The discontinuation of the annual pass is due to the expiration of BKK’s current service contract in December 2025. A new “Bubi 3.0” system is being developed through a public procurement process initiated in October 2024.

Transition Period for Current Annual Pass Holders

Customers with valid annual passes can continue to use them until expiration. However, the fee for usage exceeding 30 minutes will increase to 50 HUF per minute, and new annual passes will no longer be available for purchase.

These changes reflect BKK’s commitment to adapting its services to user habits and ensuring the sustainability of Budapest’s public transportation system.

Image source: BKK