→ → → Travel Discounts
One of the biggest perks of living in Hungary with a family is the affordable and extensive public transport system. Since 2024, rules for family and student travel have been simplified, making commuting and trips much cheaper—and in many cases, completely free.
1. Free Travel for Children
Children benefit from generous free travel rules, regardless of
nationality:
·
Under 14 years old: Travel is
completely free on all local transport (BKK in Budapest) and intercity services
(MÁV trains, Volánbusz buses). Children must carry a photo ID
(passport or ID card) if requested by an inspector.
·
Under 6 years old: Travel is
always free, and ID is generally not required (though carrying a passport copy
is recommended).
Even older children and students enjoy significant savings:
·
50% discount on single tickets:
Available for everyone aged 14–25, regardless of student status, on trains and
intercity buses.
·
90% discount on monthly passes:
Students with a valid Hungarian Student ID or a certified
school certificate (Igazolás) can purchase monthly passes at a
fraction of the full price.
o
Example: A Budapest student monthly pass costs
only 3,450 HUF (approx. €9), compared to 8,950 HUF
for the full adult fare.
Parents staying home with young children and receiving a childcare
allowance (such as GYES or GYED) are eligible for a heavily discounted
monthly pass:
·
Price: 3,450 HUF per month
·
Requirements: Must have a
Budapest address (permanent or temporary) and a certificate proving you receive
the allowance. The pass can be obtained at a BKK Customer Service
Center.
Families with three or more children also benefit:
·
Free intercity travel for parents:
Adults traveling with at least three children (who qualify for free or
discounted travel) can travel free on MÁV trains and Volánbusz
coaches.
·
Proof: Eligibility is typically
verified via Családi pótlék (Family Allowance) status or a
membership card from the National Association of Large Families (NOE).
For families living outside Budapest or planning weekend trips:
·
County Pass (Vármegyebérlet):
Unlimited travel within one county (e.g., Pest County) for 9,450 HUF
(full price) or 945 HUF (student).
·
Country Pass (Országbérlet):
Unlimited travel across Hungary for 18,900 HUF (full price) or
1,890 HUF (student).