Zugliget Chairlift: soaring over Budapest’s hills

Nestled among the verdant Buda hills, far away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Budapest, lies one of the city’s most underrated gems: the Zugliget Chairlift (Libegő).

With every slow ascent and descent of this delightful cableway, you’re treated to spectacular, panoramic views of the city and its natural surroundings—offering a serene, aerial escape that feels miles away from the urban energy below.

As someone who has spent countless hours on this chairlift, both as a curious child and a reflective adult, I can say that this gentle ride has a way of making time slow down, offering you a unique perspective of the world below. If you’re looking for a tranquil experience high above Budapest, the Zugliget Chairlift might be just what you need.

A brief history of the Zugliget Chairlift

Chairlift Budapest price – affordable and unmissable

Now, you might be wondering: what’s the cost of this lovely escape? The Zugliget Chairlift is refreshingly affordable, especially considering the unbeatable views and the unique experience it offers. As of 2024, here’s a breakdown of the prices:

• Return ticket for adults: 3,500 HUF
• Return ticket for children (3-14 years): 1,000 HUF
• Return ticket for students (15-25 years): 2000 HUF

Tickets can be bought directly at the chairlift’s base station, and payment options include both cash and card.

The affordability is one of the reasons why I recommend the Zugliget Chairlift to everyone visiting Budapest, whether they’re here for a quick weekend trip or an extended stay.

It’s one of those hidden treasures that doesn’t require a hefty entrance fee but delivers an unforgettable experience.

Chairlift Budapest: how to get there

While it may seem remote, getting to the Zugliget Chairlift is surprisingly easy with Budapest’s excellent public transport system. The base station is located in the Buda Hills, near Zugliget in District XII, and there are several convenient options to reach it.

By bus:

The most direct and scenic way to reach the Zugliget Chairlift is via Bus 291, which departs from Nyugati Railway Station and takes you through the lovely hills. You’ll want to get off at the Zugliget, Libegő stop, which is a short walk from the chairlift’s base station.

By Cogwheel Railway and walk:

For a more adventurous route, take the historic Cogwheel Railway (Fogaskerekű) from Városmajor up to the Széchenyi-hegy station, then walk through the lush paths of the Buda Hills. The walk takes about 25-30 minutes, offering a peaceful, nature-filled approach to the chairlift.

By car:

If you prefer driving, there is a small parking area near the base station, but spaces are limited. Given the beauty of the surrounding nature, I personally recommend public transport for a more environmentally friendly and relaxing experience.

Chair Lift Budapest – a ride to remember

Once you arrive at the base station, you’re greeted by a tranquil woodland area. The chairlift itself is an open two-seater, with no enclosures to block your view, allowing the fresh breeze to brush against your skin as you ascend.

There’s something nostalgic about the simplicity of the chairlift—no flashing lights, no loud noises—just the soothing hum of the mechanism and the occasional bird song. You feel like you’re floating, gently swaying through a corridor of trees.

As you rise higher, the view starts to unfold. On clear days, the whole of Budapest stretches out beneath you—the shimmering waters of the Danube, the majestic spires of St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the iconic Parliament building.

Look the other way, and the rolling green hills of the Buda side create a soft, almost dreamlike landscape.

The ride itself lasts about 15 minutes, and while it’s not an adrenaline rush by any means, it’s precisely the kind of peaceful break you need after exploring the city’s busier attractions. I find that no matter how many times I take the chairlift, there’s always a moment when the view takes my breath away, especially during the fall, when the forest below transforms into a sea of orange, red, and gold.

What to do at the top

Once you reach the top of János Hill, you’re at the highest point in Budapest—an impressive 527 meters above sea level. From here, you can explore the area, including the iconic Elizabeth Lookout Tower (Erzsébet-kilátó). This stone tower, built in 1910, offers even more expansive views of the city. Climb to the top for a 360-degree panorama of Budapest and the surrounding countryside.

If you’re in the mood for a hike, there are plenty of trails leading through the surrounding forests. In the winter, the hills are popular with locals for sledding and light skiing.

Feeling hungry? There are a few charming spots nearby where you can enjoy some classic Hungarian fare. Normafa, a short walk from János Hill, has long been a favorite destination for a relaxing meal in the hills. Try a warming bowl of gulyás (goulash) or a slice of fresh strudel at one of the outdoor vendors.

Best time to visit the Budapest Chair Lift

One of the best things about the Budapest Chair Lift is that it operates year-round, each season bringing its own unique beauty.

• Spring and summer: lush green forests surround you, and the fresh air is intoxicating. These months are perfect for enjoying the full bloom of the Buda hills.
• Autumn: in my opinion, fall is when the chairlift truly shines. The hills are ablaze with autumn colors, making the ride a truly magical experience.
• Winter: if you don’t mind the cold, winter offers a quiet, snow-covered landscape. The chairlift operates unless the weather conditions are too extreme, and there’s something particularly special about gliding above snow-dusted trees.

I recommend visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat in summer or the midday crowds. The chairlift’s operating hours are generally from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (though this can vary by season), so plan your visit accordingly.

Practical tips

• Accessibility: while the chairlift itself is not wheelchair accessible, those with mobility issues may find the nearby lookout points (reachable by car) easier to navigate.
• Weather: since the chairlift is open-air, make sure to dress appropriately for the season. Bring a jacket for the ride, even in summer, as it can get breezy at higher altitudes.
• Photography: don’t forget your camera or phone! The views from both the chairlift and János Hill are worth capturing, especially around sunset.

How long is the ride on the Zugliget Chairlift

The chairlift ride takes about 15 minutes each way, offering scenic views over the Buda hills.

Is the Zugliget Chairlift open year-round?

Yes, it operates year-round, but may close temporarily during severe weather conditions.

How can I reach the Zugliget Chairlift?

The chairlift is easily accessible by bus from Széll Kálmán Square, or by a short walk from the Normafa area.