Budapest Tram 2: Europe’s Most Scenic Tram Journey

Budapest Tram #2 is the most scenic tram journey in Europe! If you don’t believe me…

That’s according to National Geographic in an article titled:  Top 10 Trolley Rides.  According to our guide,  the Budapest Tram #2 is the second most scenic tram journey in the world (after San Francisco). However, I couldn’t find anything substantiating her claims.

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The Scenic Tram Journey Through Budapest

Tram #2 on the Pest side of Budapest follows the Danube River. The tram provides views of Buda and Buda Castle on the other side of the Danube. On the Pest side, you are treated to views of the baroque neo-gothic Parliament building up close. Along with several UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the Chain Bridge.

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Undoubtedly, one of my favorite sites was the Jewish Memorial, which pays tribute to Jews that died in WWII. It features shoes along the Danube riverbank. Even so, it is a stark contrast to the grandeur of the buildings lining the riverbank and I think it’s this subtly that makes it so powerful. (See photo below)

Regardless of where tram #2 falls in the rankings, I thought it was a beautiful journey.  Take a look:

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Know Before You Hop on Europe’s Most Scenic Tram

You can hop on tram #2 at Jaszari Mari Square and continue along the Danube.  When I visited, part of the track was closed for construction. So I wasn’t able to travel the full route past the parliament building.  However, construction is expected to be finished sometime in Spring 2014.  Travel tip:  You should definitely sit on the side closest to the Danube for the most scenic views.

 Cost:  I used my Budapest card, so it was included in the price, but a 24-hour fare good for unlimited public transportation in the city can be purchased for 1500 HUF (~5 EUR). Single fares can also be purchased.

I can’t think of a better, or more cost-effective way to see Budapest.  Furthermore, it’s worth going both during the day and in the evening for a completely different perspective.  One of the highlights of my trip to Budapest!

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Accommodation in Budapest 

5-Star

Corinthia Budapest is located in the popular Grand Boulevard and offers luxury and style. The hotel has 3 restaurants and live piano music in the lobby during the day. Guests can enjoy the historic Royal Spa which offers treatments, spas, saunas and steam baths as well as a fitness center. 

Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest offers luxurious rooms and contemporary decor. The hotel offers an indoor pool, several restaurants that offer a selection of cuisines as well as a bar. Guests can enjoy the spa which offers massages, treatments, sauna and a fitness center. 

4-Star

Prestige Hotel Budapest is set in a historic building located 200m away from the Danube River and 190m away from Tram #2. The hotel is stylish with elegant Cavalli furniture and spacious rooms and bathrooms. 

Hotel Moments Budapest is located 200m from the State Opera House and offers stylish comfortable rooms and stunning bathrooms. The hotel has a unique decor and brilliant decor style as well as a relaxing wellness center and a restaurant. 

3-Star

D8 Hotel offers modern decor and rooms with private bathrooms. There are a shared lounge and bar that guests are welcome to use. Guests can enjoy a full buffet breakfast each morning.

Casati Budapest Hotel Superior is housed in an 18th Century building and is an adult-only hotel. The hotel offers 4 different room styles which guests are free to choose from. Guests have access to a small fitness center, sauna, and a landscaped courtyard. 

It’s well worth trying when you are in Budapest. Tram #2 is a unique way of discovering the beauty of the city.