Keleti Railway Station Budapest
Budapest's majestic Keleti Railway Station, a stunning architectural gem and a vital transport hub.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Keleti Railway Station Budapest
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Budapest's majestic Keleti Railway Station, a stunning architectural gem and a vital transport hub.
"A grand gateway to Budapest, its architecture is breathtaking and worth exploring."
📸 Admire the Architecture
Don't just pass through! Take time to appreciate the stunning interior and exterior design.
💰 Budget Eats Nearby
For affordable meals, check out the Asian street food courtyard next to the station.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Hall Architecture
Main concourse
Marvel at the ornate ceilings, intricate details, and sheer scale of this historic railway station.
Gábor Baross Statue
Exterior, facing Rákóczi út
A prominent statue of the former Hungarian Minister of Commerce, a key figure in railway development.
Allegorical Facade Sculptures
Station facade
Admire the detailed allegorical sculptures crowning the station's impressive 43-meter high facade.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Keleti Station
Beyond the Platforms
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Admire the Architecture
Don't just pass through! Take time to appreciate the stunning interior and exterior design. 
💰 Budget Eats Nearby
For affordable meals, check out the Asian street food courtyard next to the station.
🌃 Overnight Stays
Avoid spending the night at the station; it's not recommended for safety. Book a hotel or hostel. +1
✈️ Airport Transfers
Use public transport (Metro M4 + 200E bus) for the cheapest route to the airport.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Admire the Architecture
Don't just pass through! Take time to appreciate the stunning interior and exterior design.
💰 Budget Eats Nearby
For affordable meals, check out the Asian street food courtyard next to the station.
🌃 Overnight Stays
Avoid spending the night at the station; it's not recommended for safety. Book a hotel or hostel. +1
✈️ Airport Transfers
Use public transport (Metro M4 + 200E bus) for the cheapest route to the airport.
🚊 All-Night Tram
If you need to stay out late, Tram 4-6 runs all night and can be a safe option.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Keleti Railway Station is lauded for its magnificent architecture, serving as a grand gateway to Budapest. While its beauty is a major draw, visitors caution against spending the night due to safety concerns and recommend utilizing nearby budget-friendly food options. It's a functional hub with impressive historical character.
"A huge building and a grand Train station. Since arrived from Prague railway station , this one has a touch of old style train station, rather than a modern look.
Cleanliness compared to Prague is limited.
People seem to love smoking here and the place is riddled with cigarettes buds."
Rehman Saffi
"Even if you're not catching a train, Budapest-Keleti is worth visiting for its stunning 19th-century grandeur. The ornate facade, vaulted halls, and historic details make it feel like a palace rather than a transportation hub. I loved photographing the intricate ironwork and watching travelers bustle under those majestic arched ceilings. While I didn’t use train services, the station’s vibrant energy and well-preserved beauty left me impressed. A must-see for architecture lovers!"
Curdin
"Nice open designed train station. Places to eat
Easy to connect to the local bus system as it is eight outside the building. Easy to get to and from the platforms"
Craig Brophy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cheapest way is to take Metro line M4 to Kálvin tér, transfer to M3 towards Kőbánya-Kispest, then take the 200E bus to the airport. This uses one transfer ticket. A slightly faster but more expensive option is the 100E direct bus from Deák Ferenc tér (accessible via M2 from Keleti) or Kálvin tér. Taxis are also available but pricier. +1
Keleti station is well-connected by public transport. You can take the M2 (red) metro line directly to Deák Ferenc tér, a central hub for many attractions. Alternatively, various trams and buses stop nearby, offering access to different parts of the city.
Yes, Keleti station is a major public transport hub. It's served by the M2 metro line and numerous tram and bus routes, making it easy to reach from anywhere in Budapest.
Take the M2 metro line to Örs vezér tere, then the H8 suburban railway. From there, a free shuttle bus will take you to the Hungaroring.
Yes, taxis are available, but it's advisable to avoid them due to potential overcharging. Use ride-sharing apps or pre-booked services for fairer prices.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Keleti Railway Station is a public space, and you do not need a ticket to enter and explore its architecture. Tickets are only required for train travel.
Keleti Railway Station operates 24/7 for train services. However, individual ticket offices and waiting rooms may have specific opening and closing times. It's best to check MÁV (Hungarian State Railways) for precise details on service hours.
Yes, you can purchase train tickets for domestic and international travel at the ticket offices located within Keleti Railway Station. Online booking is also an option.
Yes, Keleti station has a business lounge accessible with a first-class ticket, offering a more comfortable waiting experience.
General waiting areas are free to use. However, there are premium lounges, like the business lounge, which require a specific ticket class or fee for access.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Beyond its function as a transport hub, Keleti boasts impressive architecture, including ornate ceilings and facade sculptures. You can also find shops, cafes, and restaurants.
While generally safe during the day, Keleti station and its immediate surroundings are not recommended for spending the night. It's advisable to find accommodation elsewhere for safety reasons. +1
There's an Asian street food courtyard adjacent to the station offering good food at acceptable prices. You can also find various cafes and restaurants within the station itself.
Yes, Keleti station typically offers luggage storage services (lockers or staffed storage) where you can leave your bags for a fee. This is convenient if you have a long layover.
Amenities include ticket offices, waiting rooms, restrooms, cafes, restaurants, shops, and ATMs. Wi-Fi may also be available in certain areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! Keleti station's grand architecture, both inside and out, makes it a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts. Capture the intricate details and the bustling atmosphere.
Focus on the main concourse for its vaulted ceilings and grand scale, the exterior facade with its sculptures, and the Gábor Baross statue.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, professional or commercial photography might require special permits. Always be mindful of other travelers.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting and fewer crowds, enhancing your photographic opportunities.
Yes, you can photograph trains from the platforms. Be aware of operational areas and safety guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For longer waits, consider bringing entertainment for kids. While there are cafes, packing snacks and drinks is always a good idea. The station's connectivity means you can easily reach family-friendly attractions in Budapest via public transport.
💰 Budget Travelers
When traveling to or from the airport, opt for the cheapest public transport route involving the metro and bus, which is significantly more economical than taxis.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Aim for early mornings or late afternoons to capture the best light and avoid the peak crowds. The Gábor Baross statue outside also provides a good photographic opportunity. Remember to be respectful of other travelers and any operational areas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel
+2Visitors often express awe at the station's beauty, with many recommending taking time to explore its architectural features. The sheer scale and the artistic elements contribute to its status as more than just a transit point, but a destination in itself. It's a place where history and functionality beautifully converge, offering a glimpse into Budapest's past grandeur.
+1When visiting, look up! The vaulted ceilings and decorative elements are particularly striking. The station's design reflects the optimism and industrial progress of its era, making it a significant landmark in Budapest's urban landscape. It's a testament to the engineering and artistic capabilities of the time.
+1Navigating Keleti Station
For those with layovers or waiting for trains, Keleti offers various amenities. You'll find ticket offices, waiting rooms, restrooms, and a selection of shops and eateries. The station is also a key point for onward travel within Budapest, with direct metro and bus connections. Understanding the station layout and transport options beforehand can significantly ease your journey.
While the station is generally safe, travelers are advised to be vigilant, especially during peak hours and at night. As highlighted in community discussions, it's not recommended to spend the night at the station due to safety concerns. Opting for nearby accommodation or utilizing 24-hour public transport options like the Tram 4-6 is a safer alternative.
Dining and Local Flavors
If you have a longer wait, exploring the immediate vicinity of the station can lead to more diverse culinary experiences. However, for those with limited time, the options within or directly adjacent to Keleti are the most convenient. It's always a good idea to check recent reviews for specific recommendations as establishments can change.
For travelers on long journeys, planning meals is crucial. The Asian street food courtyard is a popular choice for a substantial and affordable meal before boarding a lengthy train ride.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit