The Budapest LEGO Tram: The World’s First Fixed-Track LEGO Vehicle

Imagine how 1.8 million tiny LEGO bricks unite to create Budapest’s newest and most creative attraction! The life-sized LEGO tram located at Deák Ferenc Square is not just a simple structure, but a special meeting of engineering genius and playful creativity that is guaranteed to bring a smile to faces of all ages. LEGO is a toy that probably everyone has encountered and built smaller or larger structures with. Can you imagine what an experience it must have been to build this enormous tram?

Now we can be part of the building process, as the designers have covered the tram with empty LEGO plates, so anyone can add their own original LEGO pieces. Hopefully, by the end of the exhibition, we will be able to admire a beautifully decorated, unique artwork bearing the handprints of many people.

The original structure must not be touched, and damaging it is strictly forbidden. This is also indicated by a sign.

The biggest challenge during construction was the tram’s foundation. A steel structure had to be designed that could support the 4.5-ton weight of 1.8 million LEGO bricks!

In a few places, the base paint can still be seen after the completed LEGO structure.

The elements were probably glued together (which is LEGO’s biggest enemy), but in this case, it’s understandable. Without glue, the window sills would surely fall off, and the tram’s roof, which in LEGO language consists of light bluish elements, could easily collapse without adhesion.

Like typical Budapest trams, this LEGO tram can also go in two directions. On one end of the tram, we find a male driver, while on the other end, it is driven by a woman.

Who travels on the LEGO tram?

LEGO figure images can be seen in the windows. We can find Hot-dog man from The LEGO Batman Movie – Orca, who is notably a shark, sits opposite to Llama suit guy, who naturally brought his guitar for the journey. The famous LEGO blue bird is also present.

Interestingly, LEGO hasn’t brought in the deservedly popular Star Wars style this time. Although there are Santa-costumed figures from Star Wars too. Just think of Darth Vader or C3PO.

The passengers symbolize the diversity of Budapest residents. Though the same figures sit on both sides of the LEGO tram. The figures are not real LEGO figures, just images of them.

What is the Budapest LEGO tram really?

It has been placed at one of Budapest’s busiest intersections, where Christmas markets and other holiday programs take place.

Located at Deák Ferenc Square, at the terminal of trams 47-49, the LEGO tram is a unique attraction that was inaugurated in Budapest in 2024. This is the world’s first fixed-track LEGO vehicle built entirely from LEGO bricks. The tram was built in 1:1 scale, exactly the same size as a real Budapest tram. Known also as “LEGO Vili,” the creation is built from 1.8 million LEGO bricks, is 11.5 meters long, and weighs approximately 2 tons.

The tram’s uniqueness lies in the fact that it stands on real tram tracks and has life-size dimensions, and can be moved on the tracks, thus perfectly fitting into the environment. It was pulled into place by a cargo tram named “Muki.” The vehicle was first presented to the press at the Ferencváros depot, then towed to Deák Ferenc Square.

Due to its size and detail, the construction is considered a unique attraction not only in Budapest but worldwide.

📸 It’s a perfect photo subject both during the day and in evening illumination, so it’s worth viewing at both times of day.

Moreover, as this is a unique, temporary exhibition, it’s worth taking many photos with it!

How was the LEGO tram built?

The monumental structure took two months to create, with about 90 specialists working on it. It was designed by master builder Balázs Dóczi, and the project was jointly implemented by BKV, BKK, Budapest Brand, and LEGO Hungária KFT.

1.8 million LEGO bricks were used, and more than 2000 work hours were spent on construction. Special design software was used, and unique building techniques were developed.

Special attention was also paid to the interior space, which was made entirely of LEGO elements. True, we cannot see it, but I would be curious about what it looks like inside.

The tram’s external design matches that of the original vehicles.

Project Goals:

• Promoting “Budapestness” and urban transport culture
• Emphasizing the importance of sustainable and community transport
• Highlighting the joy of play and collective creation
• Developing children’s abilities (self-confidence, problem-solving, communication)
• Symbolizing the 137-year history of Budapest’s tram transport

The LEGO tram has a significant impact on Budapest, as it not only increases the area’s tourist appeal but also creates a new meeting point in the city.
It also strengthens Budapest’s creative city image and inspires younger generations.

The LEGO tram can be viewed at Deák Square until December 20, 2024.
We hope to meet it in one of the museums afterward.

Where is the LEGO tram in Budapest?

Where is the LEGO tram in Budapest?

When is the LEGO tram open?

It can be viewed 24 hours a day!

How much does the LEGO tram cost to visit?

Visiting the LEGO tram is free!