With the new regulations, cab meters in the city will start at 700 forints instead of the current 450 forints. There’s also a 20-forint rise on the distance-based tariff, increasing the cost of one kilometre to 300 forints. At present, taxi drivers charge 70 forints per minute for the time spent waiting for the passenger and with the new policy, this rate will go up by 5 forints.
According to Deputy Mayor for City Development Balázs Szeneczey, the majority of Budapest’s taxi drivers welcome the decision affecting the current taxi rates, especially since tariffs haven't changed considerably in recent years.
Licensed taxis in Budapest appear in distinct yellow and offer regulated prices to customers. This closely monitored system was introduced in 2013 in an attempt to eradicate illegal cab operations around town. Meanwhile, international ride-sharing company Uber started running in Budapest, as well, but soon after it was launched here, the company was forced to cease operations due to government legislation.
Currently, as an app-based cab-service provider, Estonian transport network association, Taxify serves Budapest – this company also comes under the city’s licensed circle of taxis.
For visitors flying into Budapest, taxi services are provided by kiosks in front of adjoining Terminals 2A and 2B. Only one company, Főtaxi, is currently authorised to provide this cab service from at Budapest Airport with these kerbside pick-ups. The rate into town is around 7,500-8,000 forints.
