Published: July 21 2023
Yes, you can hail a taxi in Budapest. However, there are specific rules and guidelines you might want to know to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Below, we delve further into the ways you can hail a taxi, general taxi etiquette in Budapest, and some tips to keep in mind for a safe ride.
Hailing a Taxi on the Street
In Budapest, you can certainly hail a taxi directly from the street. When you spot a taxi, simply raise your hand to signal the driver. It's that simple!
Keep in mind, however, to only hail official taxis marked with the distinctive taxi sign on top and a company logo on the side. These are licensed taxis and are required by law to run by the meter, ensuring a fair price for your journey.
Call or Book a Taxi
For a more organized approach, consider calling a taxi company or booking a taxi online. There are several taxi companies in Budapest that offer their booking services either through their website or over the phone. Some popular ones include Főtaxi, City Taxi, and Taxi 4. Online booking is usually straightforward and can be done in English.
Using Taxi Apps
In recent years, the use of taxi-hailing apps has become increasingly popular in Budapest. Such apps offer an easy and convenient way to book a taxi from anywhere in the city. Bolt (formerly known as Taxify) and Uber are popular options, providing a user-friendly interface, driver details, real-time tracking, and cashless payments.
Taxi Etiquette in Budapest
While in a Budapest taxi, it's essential to remember a few points of etiquette to avoid any confusion or misunderstanding.
- Always sit in the back seat unless invited to sit upfront.
- It's generally considered polite to greet the driver with a quick "hello" (Szia in Hungarian).
- When paying, it's acceptable to round up to the nearest hundred Hungarian Forint as a tip (about 10% is usually satisfactory).
Tips for Taxi Safety
When it comes to personal safety, it's advisable to follow these tips while hailing a taxi in Budapest:
- Avoid hailing a taxi in the tourist-heavy areas, as there might be a chance of running into an unlicensed taxi.
- If you're unsure whether a cab is licensed, look for the yellow license plate, taxi sign on top, and the company logo on the side.
- Always ensure that the driver switches on the meter before you start your journey.
- If you're not familiar with the city, consider using GPS on your phone to ensure that you're on the right track.
Hailing a taxi in Budapest is simple and straightforward once you know how. So, whether you're using traditional hailing methods, making a phone call, or using an app, you're sure to find an efficient, reliable, and cost-effective way to get around this beautiful city. Stay aware, follow the tips and guidelines above, and your journey is sure to be a safe and pleasant one.
