What international airports are close to Budapest?

Published: May 15 2023

Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is a popular destination for travelers seeking to explore the beautiful Central European region. Given its central location, it's natural to wonder about the international airports available around the city. This blog post will introduce you to the closest international airports to Budapest, helping you make the most convenient travel arrangements for your trip to this beautiful city.

Distance from Budapest: 16 km (10 miles)

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, also known as Budapest Airport or simply BUD, is the main international gateway to Budapest and Hungary. Located about 16 km southeast of the city center, it serves as the base for numerous airlines, including the Hungarian flag carrier, Wizz Air.

The airport offers various ground transportation options, such as taxis, buses, and private shuttles. The best way to reach the city center is by using the 100E bus, which operates between the airport and Deák Ferenc Square in the city center. You can also take the 200E bus and switch to the Metro at the Kőbánya-Kispest station.

Budapest Airport hosts several flights from major cities across Europe, North America, Africa, and Asia, making it the primary choice for most travelers visiting Budapest.

Distance from Budapest: 216 km (134 miles)

Vienna International Airport, also known as Flughafen Wien-Schwechat or just VIE, is located in Schwechat, Austria, and is only about 216 km away from Budapest. It's often chosen as an alternative airport by travelers looking for more flight options or better fares.

Several airlines operate frequent flights between Vienna and Budapest, so you can easily reach your final destination by air. However, the most popular and budget-friendly way to travel between the two cities is by train, which takes approximately 2.5 hours. Some travelers also opt for buses or car rentals, offering greater flexibility in terms of stops along the way.

Distance from Budapest: 202 km (125 miles)

Bratislava Airport, or M. R. Štefánik Airport, in Slovakia is another nearby international airport that is 202 km away from Budapest. It’s a smaller airport, but it serves various low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, which means you can find some good deals on flights.

From Bratislava, you can reach Budapest by train, bus, or car. Trains between Bratislava and Budapest usually take around 2.5 hours, while buses may take slightly longer, between 3-4 hours. Renting a car is another option to consider, especially if you’re planning to explore the surrounding countryside and attractions.

In conclusion, the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is the main airport for travelers visiting Budapest, but several alternative international airports are located within a few hours away, such as Vienna International Airport (VIE) and Bratislava Airport (BTS). It’s essential to weigh your options, such as flight costs and travel time, when choosing the best airport for your trip to Budapest.