Travellers who hop aboard the Children’s Railway to explore the Buda Hills are in for an unforgettable adventure. Alongside breathtaking scenery, this unique railway is operated by children, making it truly special. In 2015, it was even listed in the Guinness World Records as the longest railway run by young people.
Children’s Railway Timetable
Hűvösvölgy–Széchenyi Hill
- Hűvösvölgy: 9:10, 10:10, 11:10, 12:10, 13:10, 14:10, 15:10
- Hárshegy: 9:18, 10:18, 11:18, 12:18, 13:18, 14:18, 15:18
- Szépjuhászné: 9:27, 10:27, 11:27, 12:27, 13:27, 14:27, 15:27
- János Hill: 9:34, 10:34, 11:34, 12:34, 13:34, 14:34, 15:34
- Virágvölgy: 9:40, 10:40, 11:40, 12:40, 13:40, 14:40, 15:40
- Csillebérc: 9:44, 10:44, 11:44, 12:44, 13:44, 14:44, 15:44
- Normafa: 9:47, 10:47, 11:47, 12:47, 13:47, 14:47, 15:47
- Széchenyi Hill: 9:50, 10:50, 11:50, 12:50, 13:50, 14:50, 15:50
Széchenyi Hill–Hűvösvölgy
- Széchenyi Hill: 10:03, 11:03, 12:03, 13:03, 14:03, 15:03, 16:03
- Normafa: 10:06, 11:06, 12:06, 13:06, 14:06, 15:06, 16:06
- Csillebérc: 10:09, 11:09, 12:09, 13:09, 14:09, 15:09, 16:09
- Virágvölgy: 10:13, 11:13, 12:13, 13:13, 14:13, 15:13, 16:13
- János Hill: 10:19, 11:19, 12:19, 13:19, 14:19, 15:19, 16:19
- Szépjuhászné: 10:26, 11:26, 12:26, 13:26, 14:26, 15:26, 16:26
- Hárshegy: 10:32, 11:32, 12:32, 13:32, 14:32, 15:32, 16:32
- Hűvösvölgy: 10:40, 11:40, 12:40, 13:40, 14:40, 15:40, 16:40
Special Timetable for 24th December 2022
- Fewer departures as specified above.
Stops and Journey
The journey spans just over 11 km and takes approximately 40–45 minutes. The railway connects Széchenyi Hill and Hűvösvölgy, with a difference of 235 metres in elevation. Regular stops include Normafa, Csillebérc, Virágvölgy, János Hill, Szépjuhászné, and Hárshegy, each offering spectacular views. Make sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning sights!
History of the Children’s Railway
The Hungarian State Railways (MÁV) decided in 1947 to create a railway operated by children. Construction began a year later, on the Day of Hungarian Poetry, and continued until the 1950s. Until the fall of communism, it was operated by Pioneer children who excelled in school. Today, the popular railway courses for young participants, held on Friday afternoons and Saturdays, remain highly sought after.
Highlights
During the 40-minute journey, you can visit landmarks such as:
- Budakeszi Wildlife Park
- Libegő (Chairlift)
- Tündér Rock and Báthory Cave
- Erzsébet Lookout Tower
- Kaán Károly Lookout
- Makovecz Imre Lookout
Children’s Railway Museum
Located at the Hűvösvölgy terminal, this museum showcases the history of the railway with a rich collection of photos and artefacts, alongside interactive exhibits for an engaging experience.
- Address: 1021 Budapest, Hűvösvölgy, Hungary
- Phone: +36 1 397 5394
- Email: info@gyermekvasut.hu
Visitor Reviews
Rated 9.7 (Excellent) based on 19 reviews:
- “The autumn scenery from the train was breathtaking!”
- Family with young children (1 month ago)
- “Cool forest and beautiful panorama.”
- Family with older children (2 years ago)
Ticket Prices (Year-Round)
- Children (one-way): 500 Ft
- Adults (one-way): 1,000 Ft
- Family Ticket (2 adults, 3 children): 5,000 Ft
- Dog or Bike Ticket: 500 Ft
Features
- Pet-friendly: Yes
- Parking: 350 Ft/day (200 m away, guarded)
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Make the most of this unique railway experience while exploring the natural beauty of the Buda Hills!