Taxis in Budapest 2025 – What Every Traveler Should Know

Planning a trip to Budapest? While our team at triptobudapest.hu is excited to show you the city on foot through our walking tours, we know that at some point, you’ll need to get from point A to B a little faster. That’s when taxis come in — but like in many big cities, there are a few things you should know to avoid scams and overcharging.

Here’s everything you need to know about using taxis in Budapest 2025 safely and smartly.

Official Taxis in Budapest 2025 – What to Look For

The good news: Taxis in Budapest 2025 are regulated by the government, with set fares that all official taxis must follow. These taxis are easy to recognize:

• Yellow car

• Yellow license plate

• “TAXI” sign on the roof

• Clearly visible fare information

• Company name and logo on the doors and roof

Pro tip: Look for the “Certified Budapest Taxi” sign and check the license plate color. Avoid any taxi with a white license plate — it’s not officially registered, even if the car is yellow.

Common Taxi Scams in Budapest (And How to Avoid Them)

While Budapest is one of the safest cities in Europe for tourists, taxi scams are unfortunately still a problem — especially in touristy areas, near train stations, or around nightlife zones.

Common taxi scams in Budapest include:

• Rigged meters showing inflated fares

• Quoting a fixed price instead of using the meter

• Taking long, unnecessary routes

• Returning change in foreign currency

Most of these issues involve freelance, unlicensed drivers. So when using taxis in Budapest 2025, always stick to the official ones.

How to Use Taxis in Budapest 2025 Safely

Here are our top tips to stay safe and pay the correct fare:

1. Use Reputable Taxi Companies

These companies are fully licensed and follow the city’s strict taxi regulations:

• 6X6 Taxi

• Bolt

• City Taxi

• Elit Taxi

• Főtaxi

• GOTAXI

• Uber Taxi

They all use regulated meters, are clearly marked, and offer mobile apps for easy booking.

2. Avoid Hailing Taxis on the Street

This is where most scams happen. Instead:

• Use a taxi app

• Ask your hotel or restaurant to call a taxi

• Stick with trusted names like Bolt, Uber, or Főtaxi

Taxis in Budapest 2025 are safest when booked in advance via apps.

3. Pay by Card Whenever Possible

All licensed taxis must accept cards. It’s more secure and gives you recourse if something goes wrong.

4. Keep Track of Taxi Info

Snap a photo of the license plate or note the taxi number. If needed, report issues to:

• The taxi company

• BKK (Budapest’s public transport authority)

Red Flags When Using Taxis in Budapest 2025

Avoid taxis that:

• Don’t display a company logo

• Refuse to start the meter

• Offer a “fixed” fare upfront

• Have white license plates

• Invite you to shops or detours

Bonus Tip from Our Free Walking Tours Team

If you know in advance that you need a longer ride, for example from or to the Airport, or you want to do a day trip in the countryside, check out our friends private transfer service! Of course, after walking with us all day, you might need a quick ride. Let your guide help you order a proper taxi — we’re happy to assist. But remember, the best way to see the city is on foot. Use taxis in Budapest only when your feet say, “no more!”

Final Thoughts: Taxis in Budapest 2025 Can Be Safe and Easy

Navigating taxis in Budapest 2025 is simple if you know what to look for. Stick with yellow, certified cars. Use trusted apps. Avoid random street hails.

Want more insider tips? Join one of our Budapest Walking Tours and explore the city like a local — not just from the back seat of a cab.