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How to Get to Margaret Island Budapest: Tram, Bus or Walking

ByTina Riegelnegg
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Figuring out how to get to Margaret Island in Budapest is actually much easier than it might seem at first.

Margaret Island, right in the middle of the Danube, is one of the best spots in Budapest to slow down for a bit, whether that’s going for a swim, grabbing a drink, or just wandering through the park.

When I visited, I ended up just walking there without thinking too much about it, it was super easy. But since you’ll already be doing a lot of walking once you’re on the island, it might be better to opt for the tram or bus instead.

Here’s exactly how to get there and which option makes the most sense for your trip.

Getting to Margaret Island by Public Transport

Many tram, bus, and metro lines stop at “Margit híd, budai hídfő” just off the bridge on the Buda side of Budapest, which is a 5 min walk across a bridge to the island.

The most convenient option for most people is taking tram 4 or 6. Both cross Margaret Bridge and stop directly on the bridge at “Margitsziget / Margit híd”, from where it’s just a short walk onto the island.

Another option is bus 26, which actually runs through the island itself. This can be especially useful if you want to explore more without walking the entire distance. I ended up taking the bus back after walking across the island, which was definitely the more comfortable option.

Check the official Hungarian public transport websites for timetables and stops.

Bridge leading to Margaret Island in Budapest; How to get to Margaret Island Budapest
Margaret Island is connected to the mainland by bridge

Getting to Margaret Island on Foot

You can easily walk to Margaret Island, and it’s actually a nice way to arrive. If you walk on the side facing the city centre (the opposite side of the island), you also get some really nice views along the way, which makes the walk even more enjoyable.

There’s a pedestrian walkway on both sides of Margaret Bridge, with a crossing in the middle that leads directly onto the island. I found it very easy to navigate.

I chose to walk there, which worked well at first. But since you’ll likely do a lot of walking on the island itself, it can get tiring by the end of the day. My feet definitely felt it, so I treated myself to a Thai massage afterwards, very well deserved.

If you don’t mind the extra steps, walking is a great option. Otherwise, taking the tram can save you some energy.

How to Get around Margaret Island Budapest

Group bikes for rent standing in a line with a blue frame and a red roof
If I were there with friends, I’d definitely would have rented one of these

Exploring Margaret Island on foot is one of the best free things to do in Budapest, but the island is bigger than it looks. It took me about 30 minutes to walk from one end to the other.

  • Walking, best for exploring at your own pace, but it can get tiring if you try to see everything
  • Bus (26), runs across the island and is a great option if you want a break (I took this on the way back)
  • Bike or bike wagon, a fun and easy way to cover more ground without getting exhausted

I started out walking, which is a great way to explore, but by the end I was definitely ready for a break. So, for me, the best option is a mix, walk part of the island, then take the bus or bike to explore the rest.

A statue of a woman in the middle of a pond on Margaret Island Budapest
Japanese Garden Margaret Island Budapest

Is Margaret Island Worth Visiting?

If you’re visiting Budapest in summer, I’d definitely recommend including Margaret Island in your plans.

After spending time in the busy city centre, it’s the perfect place to slow down for a bit, whether that’s going for a walk, relaxing in the park, or just enjoying a drink by the water. It feels like a completely different side of Budapest.

What I liked most is how easy it is to fit into your itinerary. You don’t need a full day, even a few hours are enough to enjoy it without feeling rushed.

If you’re planning your trip, I’ve put together a 3-day Budapest itinerary where you can easily include a visit to Margaret Island without going out of your way.

Read more about Budapest:

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Margaret Island Budapest Directions: Easiest Way to Get There
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Tina Riegelnegg

Tina Riegelnegg is the founder of Veganderlust. She's a vegan with wanderlust, who shares tips and stories from her travels to 31 countries as a vegan minimalist. After 2.5 years of full-time travel with just a personal item-sized bag, she’s now based in Vienna, helping fellow travelers explore the world with ease and compassion.