I am British but live in Budapest, and recommend great care with taxi rip-offs. Even meters are often doctored so you can't rely on them. City Taxis (see other tips in this section) are fine, and used by many embassies – they have English speaking phone operators.

Tel: 2-111 111

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You will get ripped off.

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A reliable taxi service. Rare in Budapest. English speaking operators too. Do not take the taxis from the rank outside the terminal, but call the number. You will be given a car number and you should look for this number - in the City Taxi crest (See the website) on the car - the car will be there in less than 5 minutes. If there are two or more of you, it's cheaper, and faster, than the Airport Minibus service. No, I'm not on commission! On request, they'll send an estate if you have lots of baggage.

Call 2111 111 or see www.citytaxi.hu

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Arriving at the airport, avoid being ripped off by local taxi drivers or having the hassle of hauling luggage around while trying to find public transport in to town. Use the Airport Minibus situated in the arrivals lounge.

For under £12 they will not only take you to your hotel in Budapest but will also collect you at the end of your visit. It is a very well-run operation.

Phone No.: (+361) 296-8555
Fax: (+361) 296-8993
The phone booking service is available each day between 06.00 a.m. and 10.00 p.m..

Budapest Airport website has further information:

www.bud.hu/

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Taxi drivers picked up on the spot tried to rip us off. One guy tried to switch a 500 note into a 50 by sleight of hand, and then insisted I had given him a 50. Be wary, and make sure the meter is visible.

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Some taxis will rip you off, but there are simple ways to avoid this:

- never take a taxi that is unmarked (except for the light on top), including the white taxis lined up at the airport; these are mafia run and will rip you off

- taxis are always cheaper if you call in advance - get some numbers from your hotel/hostel, or have the bar call for you

- some reputable companies: BudaTaxi; 6x6 Taxi; Taxi 4; RadioTaxi. There are others, but in six years I've never gone wrong with these

- it's a good idea to keep a card with your address written down on it

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