Budapest Card And Its Benefits - Why You Should Have It In Budapest

A lot of cities in Europe offer to buy a city card. Such cards can help you save money, often offering discounts or even free attractions. Budapest is no exception and offers tourists the Budapest Card.

A lot of people ask whether city cards are really worth buying them. The Budapest Card comes in many different card variants, but most often people purchase a cheaper card, but for more days.

Considering that the card will cost you, it's worth planning your attractions and sightseeing to get the most out of it. You can find a full list of where the cards are accepted on Budapest's official website. We will provide a list of the coolest attractions and show you how to make the maximum use of the Budapest Card.

How Much Does A Budapest Card Cost?

You can choose from 6 different Budapest Cards. Prices listed below are valid for the 2024-2025 season. You can also purchase a Tourist Pass, but it does not include free public transport. The Budapest Card can be ordered online, as well as purchased locally at the Budapest tourist office.

Cards are available for 24h, 48h, 72h, 96h, 120h periods. It is also possible to purchase the 72 PLUS card, which includes even more discounts and free attractions.

Budapest Card Price

The Budapest Card prices start at 39 euros. This is the price for a 24h card. A 48h card costs 53 euros, a 72h card costs 69 euros, a 96h card costs 87 euros, while a 120h card costs 96 euros. The 72 PLUS card costs 99 euros.

With the Budapest Card you have the opportunity to use public transport (subway, buses, trams and trolleys) for free. In comparison, a single ticket here costs 450 Ft (1.2 eur), which is already a benefit if you plan to actively move around the city (and you will definitely want to move between the two parts of Budapest: Buda and Pest).

What Can I See With The Budapest Card

Budapest Card is worth buying when you plan your visit to this city well. Not only will you get a free guided tour of both sides of Budapest, but you will also have the opportunity to enjoy one of the city's main attractions. Which we will reach by free public transport.

So if you are interested in the history of the city, you can go on two free tours:

Walking Tour Pest

This is an opportunity to learn about the rich history of Pest. Here we will learn about the history of the Danube riverbank, passing by St. Stephen's Basilica, the Hungarian Art Nouveau House, the Parliament Building, Liberty Square and many other interesting sights.

Walking Tour Buda

Here you can explore the historical part of Budapest, along with the most popular Instagram spots. Visit the Fisherman's Bastion, Matthias Church and the Royal Palace, as well as many other interesting sights.

What To Do With Budapest Card

Thermal Baths Of Budapest

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths. With Budapest Card you will get to some of them with a discount, and to some of them.... for free.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath And Swimming Pool

Of course, this list can't miss the most popular thermal baths in Budapest. This is the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, where you will find up to 21 pools (indoor and outdoor). It is the largest and probably the most popular thermal pool complex in Europe. In addition to the pools, you will also find saunas and a lazy river.

With the Budapest Card you have a 20% discount on entry into the thermal baths.

Rudas Thermal Bath And Swimming Pool

Another impressive thermal bath is the Rudas Thermal Bath, which was built about 500 years ago. There's an amazing rooftop pool with incredible views of Budapest. On Thursdays, Fridays and weekends there is no gender division and everyone can use the baths.

With the Budapest Card you have a 20% discount on entry into the thermal baths.

St. Lukács Thermal Bath And Swimming Pool

Another historic thermal bath is St. Lukács Thermal Bath. The rich history and architecture of the bath, combined with modern amenities, create a unique atmosphere, making St. Lukács one of the most important and highly regarded baths in Budapest.

With the Budapest Card you have a FREE entry into the thermal baths.

Aquaworld Resort Budapest

It's not thermal baths, but it's one of these amazing attractions you'll find in Budapest. Aquaworld Resort Budapest is one of the largest indoor water parks and hotel complexes in Europe, located on the northern Budapest. It offers a wide range of water attractions, including a giant domed water park with leisure pools, slides, crazy rivers and a children's zone. Guests can also enjoy a large wellness complex with saunas, steam rooms and a range of massages.

With the Budapest Card you have a 20% discount on entry into the water park.

What To See In Budapest

Budapest History Museum - Castle Museum

Budapest History Museum - Castle Museum, located in the historic Royal Castle on Castle Hill in Budapest, is the place to explore the rich history of Hungary's capital from prehistoric times to the present. The museum offers archaeological collections documenting life in ancient colonies, medieval artifacts, and exhibits related to the history of the Royal Castle and its multiple reconstructions. Exhibits include reconstructions of castle interiors, works of art, and numerous everyday objects that illustrate the cultural and social development of the city.

With the Budapest Card you have a FREE entry into the Castle Museum.

Underground Railway Museum

The Underground Railway Museum in Budapest is a unique museum dedicated to the history of the first subway line on the European continent, which opened in 1896. The museum is located at Deák Ferenc tér station, where visitors can see authentic trains and equipment from the late 19th century, as well as models and photographs documenting the development of the Budapest subway. Exhibits include historical tickets, employee uniforms, and interactive displays of technology and engineering related to the construction and operation of the subway. Through these exhibits, visitors can learn about the fascinating history of the city's underground transportation, which played a key role in the development of Budapest's transportation infrastructure.

With the Budapest Card you have a FREE entry into the Underground Railway Museum.

Synagogue in Kazinczy Utca

The Synagogue in Kazinczy Utca, located in the heart of Budapest's Jewish quarter, is one of the most important and beautiful examples of Hungarian Art Nouveau. Built in the early 20th century, the synagogue is distinguished by its richly decorated interiors, colorful stained glass windows and intricate architectural details. Its interior features stunning frescoes, ornate bimahs, and a unique aron ha-kodesh. The synagogue does in fact serve not only as a place of prayers, but also as a cultural center, hosting a variety of events, concerts and exhibitions that are dedicated to Jewish heritage and culture.

With the Budapest Card you have a 10% discount on entry into the Synagogue.

Cruise On The Danube

Cruise on the Danube in Budapest is a popular tourist attraction that offers unforgettable views of the city's major sights from the river's perspective. Cruises typically last one hour and offer views of such iconic landmarks as the Parliament, the Royal Castle, the Fisherman's Bastion, Matthias Church, and the bridges connecting Buda and Pest, including the Chain Bridge. Daytime cruises offer stunning views of Budapest's architecture, while evening tours showcase the city in a magical, illuminated setting.

With the Budapest Card you have a FREE cruise on the Danube.

Pál-Völgyi Cave

Another free attraction with the Budapest Card. Pál-völgyi Cave, located in the northern part of Budapest, is the largest cave in Hungary's Buda region, offering a fascinating underground adventure. Visitors can explore its amazing rock formations, stalactites, stalagmites and corridors or chambers with a total length of more than 29 kilometers. The tourist route takes visitors through picturesque, illuminated parts of the cave, where they can admire the natural rock carvings and learn about the geological history of this unique place.

With the Budapest Card you have a FREE entry to the on the Pál-völgyi Cave.

Alternative Attractions in Budapest

Light Art Museum

The Light Art Museum in Budapest is a unique place dedicated to light art, located in a historic building in the city center. The museum features a wide range of installations and artworks that use light as the main form of expression. Exhibits include interactive light installations, video projections, neon sculptures and works using LED and laser technology. Through the creative use of light, the museum offers an immersive and sensory experience that will delight visitors of all ages.

With the Budapest Card you have a 15% discount on entry to the Light Art Museum.

Museum Of Illusions

The Museum of Illusions in Budapest is an interactive museum that offers a fascinating journey into the world of optical illusions and visual tricks. Located in the city center, it features a wide range of exhibits that play with perception and challenges our understanding of reality. From the Ames Room, where objects change size, to spinning tunnel illusions and holograms, each exhibit is designed to surprise and delight visitors of all ages. The museum encourages interaction, allowing visitors to take photos, touch exhibits and experience unusual optical effects for themselves.

With the Budapest Card you have a 15% discount on entry to the Museum of Illusions.

Zugliget Chairlift (Libegő)

Budapest's Zugliget Chairlift (Libegő) is a popular attraction offering a scenic ride over the green hills of Buda. This two-person chairlift, connecting Zugliget to János-hegy mountain, provides spectacular views of the city and surrounding nature. The ride takes about 15 minutes one way and is a great opportunity to relax and enjoy Budapest's skyline from a height. At the top of the János-hegy mountain is the Erzsébet lookout tower, which offers an even wider view of the surrounding area.

With the Budapest Card you have a FREE ride on Zugliget Chairlift.

Ferris Wheel Of Budapest With Champagne

The Ferris Wheel of Budapest is an exclusive attraction offering an unforgettable experience and amazing views of the city. This giant Ferris wheel provides guests with a unique opportunity to enjoy Budapest's skyline from a height, especially at sunset or in the evening when the city is illuminated by night lights. A nice addition is a glass of champagne, which makes the trip even more memorable.

With the Budapest Card you have a 20% discount on ride on Ferris Wheel.

Cinema Mystica Budapest- Museum Of Lights And Magic

Cinema Mystica Budapest - Museum of Lights and Magic is a unique place that takes visitors into the magical world of movie visual effects and illusion. This interactive museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of visual effects, showcasing both classic techniques and cutting-edge innovations in film and visual art. Visitors can learn the secrets of special effects creation, experiment with interactive installations, and enjoy extraordinary light shows and magical illusions.

With the Budapest Card you have a 10% discount on entry to the Cinema Mystica.

Explore the Local Cuisine with Budapest Card

Lángos In The Molnár’s Kürtőskalács Café

Lángos is a popular Hungarian street food dish that consists of a yeast dough cake, deep-fried and traditionally topped with garlic, cream cheese and sour cream, although you can choose from a variety of toppings, such as garlic sauce or sausage.

With the Budapest Card you have a 20% discount on Lángos.

Molnár’s Kürtőskalács

Kürtőskalács, also known as chimney cake, are Hungarian baked rolls shaped like cylindrical cakes that are baked on a spit over a fire. The dough is coated in sugar and spices, such as cinnamon, and then baked, creating a crispy shell on the outside and a soft inside. Kürtőskalács is often topped with powdered sugar, chocolate or nuts, giving it a sweet taste and distinctive look.

With the Budapest Card you have a 20% discount on Kürtőskalács.

Hard Rock Cafe

There are always fans of this place, so here's something for you. The Hard Rock Cafe in Budapest is an iconic restaurant and entertainment venue, known for its unique style, rock atmosphere. Located in the heart of the city, Hard Rock Cafe offers a wide selection of classic American cuisine, including burgers, steaks and salads, served in a rock atmosphere. In addition to delicious food, the restaurant also hosts live concerts and themed events that attract both the local community and tourists.

With the Budapest Card you have a 10% discount on the whole menu in Hard Rock Cafe.

  Conclusion

As you can see, we can really save a lot of money on the main attractions of Budapest. Therefore, the answer to the question of whether it is worth buying a Budapest Card is clearly - YES.

Besides, collecting such cards from different cities can make a nice travel collection and a kind of souvenir of the visited city.