Budapest Card Cruise Discounts: Is It Worth Buying?

Travelers often buy the Budapest Card for free public transport and museum entry. But the rules regarding river cruises can be confusing. Here is the definitive breakdown.

Standard Budapest Card (24h, 48h, 72h, 96h, 120h)

Does it include a free cruise? NO. Does it give discounts? YES.

Typical Discounts:

• Legenda City Cruises: ~20-25% off.
• Duna Bella / Danube Legend: Discounted.
• Various other operators: 10-20% off.
• How to claim: You must present the physical card at the ticket office before buying. You usually cannot apply the discount to online bookings!

The Exception: Budapest Card 72h PLUS

There is a premium version called the 72h PLUS. Does it include a free cruise? YES (Usually).

• The Offer: typically includes one free Legenda daytime cruise (Duna Bella).
• Value: A Legenda ticket is ~€20. The 72h Plus card costs significantly more than the standard.
• Math: If you plan to take the airport transfer (MiniBUD - also included in Plus) AND the cruise AND funicular, the Plus card is a steal. If just the cruise? Maybe not.

Public Transport Boat (BKK Boat)

Budapest used to have a public transport boat system (Lines D11, D12) that was included in the monthly pass (weekdays) and Budapest Card. Status Update: As of 2024/2025, regular scheduled public boats are suspended or heavily reduced due to budget cuts. Do not rely on "public boats" for sightseeing unless the BKK explicitly announces their return for the summer season. Check the BKK Futár app.

Summary

• Don't buy the standard card just for the cruise discount.
• Do buy the 72h Plus if you want the "all-inclusive" convenience including the boat.
• Always check the official Budapest Card booklet (PDF) current for your travel month, as partners change.