In case of a special night out, an emergency situation, or getting to and from the airport, we all might need a taxi from time to time in Budapest.

In recent years, Budapest has seen significant changes in its taxi services, with the introduction of ride-hailing apps and increased competition among traditional taxi companies.

Budapest taxis are easily identifiable by their yellow color and the mandatory use of a taximeter. Prices are regulated by the government, ensuring a fixed base fare and per-kilometer charge.

However higher prices are charged above the fixed rates,  and differences in service quality, availability, and customer experience mean that not all taxi rides in the capital are created equal. 

For foreigners – both expats and tourists who often don’t speak Hungarian - the most important thing is likely to be a taxi service that is easily accessible and always reliable. But if they speak English, then some may wonder if they have special prices for foreigners.

So, which taxi company to choose? This article aims to make your choice easier based on test results.

What Taxi Test Criteria Were Used?

The practical part of the test was special, as it was conducted this June by two "tourists"—actually American university students participating in the ‘Leadership for Social Good’ study abroad program from Georgia Tech (Atlanta, GA).

These results are particularly valuable, as they offer insight into the experience of using Budapest taxis from a foreigner's perspective.

The testers evaluated the services based on the following five criteria, all weighted equally in the final results:
 

• Method of booking and availability,

• Appeal to foreigners,

• Booking process,

• Travel experience,

• Price.

How Were the Budapest Taxi Companies Chosen?

The testers had no prior knowledge of Budapest taxi companies, so the first step was to select the service providers to be reviewed. This selection process closely mirrors the situation when a tourist or a first-time expat or local taxi user tries to hail a ride using their smartphone.

Four of the taxi companies were booked via phone apps, one online through a web form, and two by phone.

All rides took place along the same route and at the same time of day to ensure the results and experiences were as comparable as possible.

So Which Taxis Were Tested & Which Were Best?

Seven taxi service providers were compared, they are ranked in order of their overall test score:

1. Bolt - Test Score: 88

Originally known as Taxify, Bolt is a ride-hailing app that has gained significant popularity in Budapest. Bolt offers a modern and user-friendly experience, combining the convenience of app-based bookings with competitive pricing.

2. 6x6 - Test Score: 86

This trustworthy company has built a solid reputation over many years, and is a popular choice among locals and lots of expats for fair pricing and reliable service.

3. City Taxi - Test Score: 83

This is another well-established taxi firm in Budapest, for several decades its proven to be very reliable and user-friendly. It’s long been a favorite among expats who appreciate the company’s consistent quality, fair pricing and English speaking customer service.

4. Uber - Test Score: 74

After exiting Budapest in 2016, following opposition from traditional taxi drivers, the worldwide taxi giant has made a comeback to the Hungarian capital. Now they've partnered up with Főtaxi, and have sparked up some serious competition in the ride-hailing market here.

5. Főtaxi - Test Score: 66

This is one of the oldest and most established taxi companies in Budapest, with a history dating back to 1913. It has a strong reputation for reliability and decent prices, making it a popular choice among locals and expats alike, especially from Budapest Airport.

6. Welcome Pickups - Test Score: 63

This web-based service caters primarily to foreigners who want a more personalized travel experience. While it’s not a traditional taxi service, Welcome Pickups offers pre-booked rides with added services like tourist trips in Budapest, and many of the drivers speak multiple languages.

7. Tele5Taxi - 55

This is another reliable option in Budapest, known to be trustworthy and have a large service coverage area. 

Notes: The test involved a ride of approximately four kilometers, costing between 2,860 and 4,020 forints in June 2024.

It also needs to be noted that the results are of course subjective, reflecting the personal opinions and experiences of the testers, but they provide valuable insights into the world of taxis in Budapest.

Conclusion According to the Test Comparison:

* The cheapest service among those tested was Bolt. The testers also found Bolt to be the best in terms of tourist appeal, and it was their overall favorite.

* In terms of booking method and availability, 6x6 and Welcome Pickups stood out, with 6x6 Taxi having the smoothest booking process.

* The travel experience was rated the most pleasant with Bolt and City Taxi.

For more details (in Hungarian), see the Conscious Consumers Association's website: https://tesztek.tudatosvasarlo.hu


Bolt vs. Uber: Who's Winning in Hungary's Taxi Wars?

In an interview with Világgazdaság, Bolt's Managing Director mentioned that they exceeded their expected targets for June: suggesting that most passengers still prefer Bolt.

Although Uber re-entered the Hungarian market about a month ago, many predicted this would end Bolt's dominance. However, Dr. László Sabjányi noted that drivers who left in recent weeks have already expressed their intention to return.

Sources include:
Vilaggazdasag