Liszt Ferenc Airport at a Glance
Budapest Airport is the main aviation hub in Hungary. Located 24km/14.9 miles southeast of the Budapest city center, in the Ferihegy area, it serves both global, low-cost, and local airlines and welcomes international and domestic flights. The airport’s footprint used to be much more significant before 2012, when Malév Hungarian Airlines, one of the main -if not the major – airlines operating at Budapest Airport, went bankrupt. This fact had a significant impact on the airport’s functioning, leading to cutbacks and the closure of BUD terminal 1. Moreover, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the BUD’s operation was severe. Nowadays, the airport seems to have completely recovered, as in 2024, its passenger traffic was 17,574,413 million passengers. However, only terminal 2 is in operation, and terminal 1 is still out of use.
The official name of Budapest Airport is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, as a tribute to the famous Hungarian composer Franz Liszt. Nevertheless, until 2011, the airport used to be called Budapest Ferihegy International Airport, named after the area of its location. Thus, referring to the airport as “Ferihegy Airport” is still a thing in Budapest.
Airport Name: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport
IATA Code: BUD
ICAO: LHBP
Location: Budapest, Hungary
Time Zone: Central European Time (GMT+1)
Airport Map: Budapest Airport at Google Maps
Budapest Airport’s History
Budapest Airport has a long history. Indeed, while in 1937, Budaörs Airport was the major Hungarian airport, its operation presented significant problems, as it couldn’t be expanded due to being surrounded by hills, and its runways weren’t long enough to efficiently accommodate aircraft. Thus, in 1938, it was decided that a new airport would be constructed to serve as both a military and civil hub. The selected location lay within the boundaries of Pestszentlőrinc, Rákoshegy, and Vecsés. Károly Dávid Jr. took on the construction of the terminal building in 1939, opting for a unique design. He envisioned a terminal that would resemble an aircraft when viewed from above. Moreover, the road connecting the airport to the city, built between 1940 and 1943, is the same one that links the airport to Budapest today, though it has undergone numerous renovations and improvements over the years. The military part of the airport was built more quickly due to World War II. The airport finally opened its doors in 1943, and by the end of 1944, it was under Soviet Occupation.
In 1947, the airport was rebuilt as a purely civil aviation hub. In 1950, it began its operation, serving just a few international flights to Warsaw, Bucharest, Sofia, and Prague. Once Malév Airlines was established in 1954, the airport’s operation expanded. Malév operated its first flight to Vienna in 1956, while KLM became the first Western airline to fly to Budapest Airport in 1957.
The airport’s operations and passenger traffic gradually increased over the following years. In fact, in 1974, it served more than one million passengers. The second runway and a new control tower were constructed in 1977. However, in the 1980s, the airport could no longer meet the growing traffic demands. Thus, terminal 2 was built in 1985, and by then, the old terminal was called terminal 1. Malév Airlines, Lufthansa, Swissair, and Air France began serving passengers at T2.
In 1993, Malév Airlines launched the first overseas flight to New York via Rome. As the airport grew busier, the two terminals became insufficient. Therefore, terminal T2B was built in 1997. Once it opened its doors, all foreign airlines were relocated there. In 2007, the renovation of terminal 1 paid off, as the airport was awarded for its improved facilities and services. Moreover, the SkyCourt terminal was added to the airport’s complex in 2011, housing shops, restaurants, and lounges, and connecting T2A and T2B. Its central security area reduced waiting times during airport procedures. The rest of terminal 2 was also refurbished in 2012.
In 2012, Malév Airlines collapsed, causing a significant disruption in the airport’s functioning. However, many airlines, such as Air Berlin, Lufthansa, Ryanair, Aegean Airlines, and Wizz Air, expanded their operations or began serving BUD Airport, helping to offset the loss of Malév Airlines. Still, the impact on Ferihegy airport’s operations was tangible. The airport eventually managed to bounce back over the next few years. Several reconstructions, expansions, and renovations took place, while many airlines (Emirates, Air China, Shanghai Airlines) and air carriers from North America and the Middle East started flying to and from the airport. On June 6, 2024, the Hungarian government and Vinci Airports acquired Budapest Airport from its previous owners, holding 80% and 20% ownership, respectively.
Airport’s Layout
BUD Airport has two terminal buildings, T1 and T2. Nevertheless, it is actually a single-terminal airport as T1 has remained closed for almost one decade, irredeemably damaged by the MALÉV Hungarian Airlines’ bankruptcy and the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, for the moment, Budapest Airport has only one operational terminal, T2. Still, T2 is divided into two sections, interconnected via the SkyCourt, the 5-story building housing the majority of BUD stores and eateries. That being said, T2A and T2B are regarded as two separate terminals, serving different airlines and handling flights from and to different destinations.
Nevertheless, nowadays, BUD Airport sees its passenger flow rising. Hence, plans are made for the reopening of T1 as well as the construction of a brand-new third terminal building.
Flights to and from Budapest Airport
Liszt Ferenc Airport (BUD) is the major airport in Hungary, serving both domestic and international destinations. Numerous flights depart daily from BUD Airport to domestic destinations, as well as to cities across Europe, Africa, and even the Middle and Far East. The airport is the largest hub for Wizz Air, with more than 60 destinations. Moreover, it is a hub for Smartwings Hungary and an operating base for Ryanair.
Domestic Departures
Budapest Airport offers connections to many domestic destinations. Several flights depart from BUD heading to other Hungarian Airports.
The airport procedure for domestic travelers is simple. Once they reach Budapest airport’s Departures, on the first level of the terminal, they’ll need to check in. There are check-in counters for each airline, while most airlines also offer web check-in. In fact, some air carriers allow only online check-in or charge a fee for check-ins at the counters. Self-check-in kiosks are also available. Travelers with hold luggage must drop it off at the check-in counters or the self-service baggage drop-off. Afterwards, they must go through security screening and proceed to the gates area, where they’ll board the plane after displaying their boarding pass and passport or ID.
Our Tip: It’s important to remember that the departing gate can change unexpectedly. Therefore, you should check the flight information screens for last-minute changes.
International Departures
Budapest airport passengers can travel to several European destinations, or even to Africa and the Middle East. Some Far East destinations are also served.
The procedure for international passengers is more time-consuming, especially if traveling to non-Schengen destinations. Thus, they are advised to arrive at the airport 3 hours before the departure of their flight. After completing the check-in procedure, they must go through security screening. Once they finish the procedure, travelers to non-Schengen countries must go through passport control. Finally, they’ll need to reach the gates area, where they’ll be asked to display their boarding pass and passport to board the aircraft. Passengers should always check the information screens for updates on departure gates to ensure they are waiting in the correct area.
Our Tip: Web check-in is typically an option, and check-in counters are also available. Some airlines offer only online check-in services, and others charge extra for using the check-in counters. Self-service check-in kiosks and baggage drop-off points are also located on Departures.
Domestic Arrivals
Travelers arriving from a domestic destination (or a Schengen country as a matter of fact) proceed to Level 0 of the BUD terminal (Arrivals). If they have checked luggage, they’ll need to collect it from the baggage claim area before exiting the transit zone. If they are traveling without hold luggage, they can exit the post-security area and leave the airport directly.
International Arrivals
International travelers who fly from Schengen countries retrieve their luggage from the baggage belts and exit the Arrivals. In some cases, they may need to declare goods and cash. Travelers arriving from non-Schengen countries must first pass through passport control, then collect their bags and proceed through customs. The Arrivals area of Budapest Airport is located on the terminal’s Ground Floor.
Connecting Passengers at BUD Airport
Transit passengers, travelers whose final destination isn’t Budapest but who are between connecting flights, must follow the correct procedures to catch their onward flight.
- Passengers who have a boarding pass need to reach the Departure Gate for their upcoming flight. That being said, depending on their departure and destination countries, they may need to go through passport control and security screening.
- Passengers with no boarding passes need to collect their baggage, exit the transit area, and head to Departures (Level 1) to check in for their next flight. They can also check in online or use the self-service check-in kiosks.
- If your hold luggage is checked through to your final destination, you won’t have to retrieve it at Budapest Airport. Otherwise, you’ll have to collect it and proceed to Departures to drop it off at the check-in counters or use the self-service drop-off points.
The Necessary Documents
Do you have an onward flight from BUD Airport and are wondering about which documents you need? Overall, passengers must carry the following documents:
- boarding pass
- ID/Passport (based on the countries they’re flying from and to)
- visa (for some countries)
- vaccination documentation (for certain destinations)
- other documents may also be needed (e.g., ESTA (US), etc.)
Airlines
The largest of the four Hungarian commercial airports couldn’t but house all the major airlines. Plus, many low-cost providers and domestic air carriers are also present at Liszt Ferenc Airport. Verily, Budapest Airport serves a wide variety of airlines (conventional, budget, international, or Hungarian), being the hub for Wizz Air and Smartwings Hungary. Additionally, it operates as a base airport for Ryanair. Moreover, it handles Arrivals and Departures not only across Europe but also to Africa, the Middle East, and North America.
Luggage at Budapest Airport
Rules and restrictions vary according to the type of baggage:
- Checked Luggage: There are weight restrictions on checked luggage. Each airline has its own policy regarding the allowed weight, depending on factors such as the air ticket category. Moreover, there are restricted and prohibited items that can’t be carried on the aircraft, even in hold luggage.
- Carry-on Baggage: Hand luggage must be appropriate in size and weight to fit in the plane’s overhead luggage compartments. Additionally, strict rules apply to liquids and prohibited items that can’t be carried onboard.
An Overview of Budapest Airport Services and Amenities
Budapest International Airport is a major aviation hub that guarantees a seamless and pleasant travel experience for its passengers. To that end, it offers numerous services and facilities that optimize airport procedures, improve travelers’ comfort, and facilitate travel for passengers with special needs, families, seniors, and minors. Modern and efficient, Budapest Airport attends to all travelers and provides for their comfort and convenience.
The BUD Airport Shops
The shopping experience at BUD Airport is diverse. Housing numerous stores, Budapest Airport caters to all passengers’ needs, whether they are looking for luxury brands, budget-friendly shops, last-minute travel essentials, souvenirs, or local specialties. The following stores can be found within the BUD premises:
- Budapest to Go Souvenirs
- Candy to Go
- Dorko
- Gratiae
- Heinemann Sunglasses Multibrand Shop
- Heinemann Sunglasses Sport
- Individual Geneve
- Living Toys
- Memories of Hungary
- National Tobacco Shop
- Obsentum
- Optic World Exclusive
- Pocket Books
- Relay
- Rituals
- Spar
- Swarovski
- Szamos
- WHSmith
The BUD Dining Options
While airport food is notorious for being pricey and flavorless, BUD Airport offers a wide variety of dining options that typically meet passengers’ preferences and budgets. Restaurants, fast-food outlets, cafés, and bars are available at Budapest Airport. Specifically, the following dining and drinking facilities are available at the airport:
- Bar Wings
- Bottega Prosecco Bar
- Burger King
- Cafe Frei – Pier 1/Pier B
- Cafe Ritazza
- Camden Food
- Costa Coffee
- Dao Dao
- Flocafe
- Food for Flights Food Truck
- Frank’s Deli
- KFC
- Leroy
- Levito
- Negroni
- Ne’o Kiosk – T2B/T2A
- O’ Leary’s Sport Bar
- Panopolis
- Soho Coffee
- Soul @ Grain
- Street Food @BUD
- TA.SH.BA
- The Terrace
- Upper Crust
- Zest & Twist
The Duty-Free Outlets
Apart from the numerous retail stores, Budapest International Airport also features duty-free facilities. Hence, passengers can buy various products (cosmetics, perfumes, toys, accessories, food, etc.) and benefit from lower prices, free of taxes and customs duties. The Heinemann Duty-Free is available airside in both terminals (T2A and T2B) and the SkyCourt area connecting the two sub-terminals of terminal 2. Travelers can also pre-order products by shopping through the duty-free website and collect them as soon as they reach the airport’s transit area.
The BUD Airport Lounges and Hotels
Travelers who want to enjoy a relaxed layover at Budapest Airport can access one of the airport’s lounges or even check in at the airport hotel, located a 5-minute walk from the terminal. Below is a list of all the lounges available at BUD Airport:
- BUD: VIP Lounge & Services
- SkyCourt Lounge
- Mastercard Lounge
- T2B Plaza Premium Lounge
- 2A Platinum Lounge
- 2B Platinum Lounge
- LUX Sport Event Services
- Allways Meet & Assist
Family Services at Budapest Airport
Family services at Budapest Airport aim to provide all the essential amenities to ensure families don’t face difficulties during airport procedures. BUD Airport features nursing rooms, equipped with armchairs, closets, changing tables, and microwave ovens, and family restrooms. Moreover, it offers 12 strollers free of charge. There are seven stroller pick-up points located airside within the airport’s premises. Two play areas can be found inside the terminal. One kids’ zone lies in the SkyCourt Food Court and features a mini food truck, designed to match the surrounding terminal zone. The other play area is located in Pier 1 and is a mini airport, including an exact miniature replica of BUD’s runway 1 and a small aircraft.
The Accessible Services at BUD Airport
Budapest International Airport is an accessible aviation hub that fully caters to the needs of passengers with disabilities and persons with reduced mobility (PRMs), whether their conditions are temporary or permanent. Passengers with mobility problems, persons with intellectual disabilities, deaf and blind travelers, and elderly passengers are entitled to receive special services and assistance at no extra cost. That being said, advance reservations are strongly recommended to ensure the highest possible quality of service, even though assistance services are provided even without a previous appointment. All the zones of the BUD terminal, along with the car park facilities, are barrier-free. Accessible restrooms and elevators are available. Assistance dogs are also welcome at Budapest Airport.
Services and Amenities
Overall, layovers at Budapest Airport are enjoyable. The airport serving the Hungarian capital, Budapest, provides its passengers with all the necessary services and amenities and offers even more modern features. Here you can check out the most important of them:
- Baggage wrapping / Luggage storage
- BUD Conference Center
- Pharmacies /Medical services
- Banks / ATMs / Currency exchange areas
- Lost & Found offices
- Chapel / Room of Silence
- BUD Gallery
- Visitor Terrace
- Spa
- Wi-Fi
- Travel agencies and tour operators
- Information kiosks
Pet Services at BUD Airport
Pets are welcome at the pet-friendly Budapest Airport. However, they must comply with certain regulations. Thus, they must be constantly accompanied by their owners and must have a pet passport and proof of vaccination. Dogs must be on a leash at all times, while they may be asked to wear a muzzle. Additional documentation may be required depending on the destination and the airline operating the flight.
Official Contact Info
Address: 1185 Budapest, BUD Nemzetközi Repülőtér
Phone Number: +36 (1) 296-7000
Email: info@bud.hu
Official Website: https://www.bud.hu/en
Transit Options
Budapest Airport provides seamless connections to downtown and other parts of Budapest. Indeed, passengers traveling from Budapest Airport to the city center have plenty of options available. Travelers who set comfort as their priority typically catch an airport taxi or book a private airport transfer, while those who enjoy autonomous rides rent a car from the airport. Bus journeys are another alternative, ideal for passengers on a budget. Finally, trains run frequently from Ferihegy Train Station to Budapest. However, travelers need to catch a bus to reach Ferihegy Station.
Budapest Airport Taxis
Budapest airport taxis provide efficient services to and from the airport. The service is provided exclusively by Főtaxi. Rides are metered, meaning that there aren’t fixed prices for airport journeys. Hence, the final fare depends on the exact destination and the traffic congestion. The taxi ranks at BUD Airport are located outside the Arrivals area of T2A and T2B.
The Two Budapest Airport Bus Lines
Two bus lines depart from Budapest International Airport, heading to Budapest. Overall, the Budapest airport bus lines are an affordable way to travel from the airport to the city, although only one bus travels directly to the city center. Both buses operate around the clock, running from the bus stops outside terminal 2’s Arrivals (both T2A and T2B).
Budapest Airport Train
A Budapest airport train journey to the city center is an affordable way to reach your destination. That being said, trains depart from Ferihegy Train Station, located 6.5km/4 miles from BUD Airport. Therefore, passengers need to catch Bus 200E to reach the train station. While it isn’t the most convenient option, as it requires a change of lines, the total cost of the journey is just 950 HUF (€2.42 / $2.68), and train rides are unaffected by traffic.
Budapest Airport Car Rentals
A Budapest airport car rental is your best option for your ride from BUD Airport if you value the flexibility and independence provided and/or plan to travel beyond the city limits. Several car rental companies are present at Ferihegy Airport, with their desks located in the terminals’ Arrivals areas. Moreover, many agencies provide pick-up and drop-off services at BUD Airport, even though their offices aren’t within the airport’s premises.
Transfer Between Terminals
Although Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport has two terminal buildings, only terminal 2 is operational for passenger flights. Terminal 2 in Budapest Airport is divided into two sub-terminals, T2A and T2B, which are connected via the SkyCourt, a 5-story building housing the majority of the airport’s shops, dining facilities, and lounges. Thus, travelers who want to move between the sections of terminal 2 must go through the SkyCourt.
Parking Facilities
BUD Airport features several parking lots. Verily, the Terminal Parking lies close to T2 and is ideal for short stays, pickups, or dropoffs, whereas the Premium Parking is the closest to the terminal and, expectantly, the most expensive parking facility. The City Break Parking is also available. As far as long-term parking is concerned, passengers have two options at their disposal: the Holiday Parking and the Smart Parking Lot.
The City of Budapest
Budapest is one of Europe’s most-visited destinations, and there are various reasons for this fact. From the magical scenery created by the Danube River to the numerous sightseeing and attractions (the Buda Castle, the Chain Bridge that links the two cities -Buda and Pest-, and the Hungarian Parliament Building, just to name a few), Budapest leaves no visitor untouched. Verily, the city has something for everyone: foodies simply fall for its culinary scene, relishing unforgettable gastronomic experiences at local taverns or fancy restaurants, art lovers enjoy visiting the several museums and galleries, while tourists and wellness enthusiasts highly appreciate its thermal baths. Overall, whatever your preferences might be, Budapest simply won’t disappoint you.
FAQs
How many international airports are in Hungary?
Hungary has 6 international airports in total. However, the vast majority of flights are served by Budapest International Airport, which is the leading aviation hub in the country.
How many terminals does Budapest Airport have?
Budapest Airport used to have two terminal buildings, terminal 1 and terminal 2. However, terminal 1 hasn’t been operational since 2012. Terminal 2 now handles all the flights and gathers all the passenger traffic. Terminal 2 is subdivided into 2 sections, T2A and T2B.
What terminal does Ryanair fly into in Budapest?
Budapest Airport currently has only one terminal in use, terminal 2. Terminal 1 closed due to the cost-cutting needed to be done when Malév Hungarian Airlines went bankrupt in 2012. Therefore, Ryanair flies from and to terminal 2.
Do they take euros in Budapest?
Hungary’s official currency is the Hungarian Forint. Therefore, you’ll have to convert your euros to forints during your stay in Budapest. However, euros are widely accepted in the city. Nevertheless, it is better to always have foreign exchange with you, as several places don’t follow this practice.