Transport: Budapest has an extensive, inexpensive and efficient public
transport system that includes the metro, trams, buses, trolley
buses and trains. Most transport runs until about 11.30pm after
which there is a limited night bus and tram service until about
5am. The metro is clean, safe and frequent, and although there are
only three lines it reaches most areas of interest to tourists.
Trams are good for travelling around the Great Boulevard or along
the embankment; trolleybuses (electric buses) operate in Pest; and
although more difficult to use, buses are useful for journeys that
can't be made by metro, especially around Buda. There are regular
incidents of pick pocketing on buses and metro lines though,
particularly when they are crowded. An over ground HÉV train
network services the outer suburbs. One of the few ways to reach
the Castle District other than on foot is by means of a funicular
from Clark Ádám tér. All forms of public
transport require the self-validation of pre-purchased tickets,
which can get complicated; it is best to get a travel pass for
convenience that will also save money. Day or multi-day passes are
inexpensive and hassle-free, although the tourist Budapest
Card combining three days of travel with discounted attractions
isn't all that good value. Budapest's taxis have a reputation for
cheating foreigners and visitors are warned not to do business with
private, unmarked vehicles that hang around stations. Legal taxis
should have a yellow number plate, clearly display their rates and
have a meter that is switched on. It is cheaper to order one by
phone from reputable companies such as Citytaxi, Fo Taxi or
Tele-5-Taxi.
