Quick Overview – Where Do Danube Cruises Leave From?

Most popular Budapest Danube city and dinner cruises depart from the Pest riverside promenade, between the Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) and the Elizabeth Bridge (Erzsébet híd)Jane Haining rakpart, Vigadó tér or nearby docks.

Exact pier number, dock name and boarding point always appear in the “Meeting point” section of your ticket or confirmation email, so always follow your specific voucher first.

Most Common Departure Area (Pest Side)

If your tour mentions Pest promenade / city center piers, you’ll usually board on the Pest side of the Danube, near Vörösmarty tér and the riverfront. From the central hub Deák Ferenc tér, it’s a short walk down to the embankment.

Look out for docks signed with numbers and the names of cruise companies. Staff often hold signs with the cruise name or logo.

Buda-Side & Other Piers

Some cruises (especially special dinners and premium sailings) may depart from Buda-side piers near Batthyány tér or close to Margaret Bridge. A few longer or themed cruises use piers slightly further south along the river.

If your ticket says Batthyány tér or another named dock, follow directions in the voucher and use metro or tram connections to that point.

Book Daytime Cruise Book Evening Cruise

Option 1 — From Budapest City Centre (Deák Ferenc tér & Vörösmarty tér)

Best if you’re staying around the central hotels, shopping streets and inner city.

  • Start at Deák Ferenc tér: This is the main metro hub (lines M1, M2, M3). From here, most central hotels and tram/bus routes are a short walk away.
  • Walk to Vörösmarty tér: Head toward Vörösmarty tér (end of the historic Váci utca shopping street). It’s about 5–7 minutes on foot from Deák.
  • Continue to the river: From Vörösmarty tér, walk straight toward the Danube via Vigadó tér. You’ll reach the Pest river promenade in around 3–5 minutes.
  • Find your pier: Once at the embankment, match the pier number or dock name on your ticket with the signs on the riverside. Allow time to walk slightly up or down the river if needed.

Ticket & Meeting Point Tip

Always read the “Meeting point” section on your GetYourGuide voucher. It tells you whether to go directly to the boat, to a ticket office at the pier, or to a nearby check-in desk first.

Budapest by Night Cruise Daytime or Nighttime Cruise

Option 2 — Metro, Tram & Bus to the Danube Piers

Metro Routes

For most cruises, aim for Deák Ferenc tér or Vörösmarty tér on the M1 yellow line. From there, it’s an easy walk to the Pest promenade and city piers.

If your cruise departs from the Buda side near Batthyány tér, use the M2 red line to Batthyány tér station, then walk directly to the nearby riverside piers.

Tram 2 – Scenic Riverfront Ride

Tram 2 runs along the Pest riverbank and is often called one of Europe’s most beautiful tram routes. Get off at stops such as Vigadó tér, Széchenyi István tér or nearby, then walk to your pier.

Buses & Night Transport

Several city buses serve the riverfront and central squares. At night, night buses also connect the area after your cruise. Check your map or transport app for the line closest to your meeting point.

Tickets & Payment

You can buy single tickets, travelcards or use contactless options (depending on the latest system in Budapest). Valid transport tickets are needed for metro, tram and bus.

Wayfinding Tip

When unsure, navigate to Vigadó tér or Vörösmarty tér on the Pest side. From there, the main Danube cruise piers are just a few minutes’ walk along the river.

Option 3 — Walking via Chain Bridge, Buda Castle & Parliament

If you have time, walking to your cruise along the Danube is one of the nicest ways to arrive. You’ll pass famous sights like Buda Castle, the Parliament building and historic bridges.

  • From Buda Castle / Fisherman’s Bastion: Walk downhill toward the Chain Bridge, cross to the Pest side and head along the river toward the piers listed on your ticket (often to the south, near Vigadó tér).
  • From Parliament (Országház): Stroll along the Pest promenade toward the Chain and Elizabeth Bridges. Many sightseeing boat docks lie along this stretch of river.
  • From inner Pest (Váci utca): Wander down Váci utca to the river, then walk along the embankment to your meeting pier.

Photo Tip

Arrive early and take photos of the illumined Parliament, Buda Castle and bridges before boarding your evening cruise – the view from the pier can be as beautiful as from the boat.

Night Lights Cruise Premium Sightseeing Cruise

From Railway Stations & Airport

From Keleti, Nyugati & Déli Stations

From any major station, first head to the city center hubs (Deák Ferenc tér or Vörösmarty tér) using metro or tram. From there, follow the directions to the Pest promenade piers.

Typically, this means one short metro ride plus a 5–10 minute walk to the river.

From the Airport

Take airport bus and metro connections into the city center (for example, toward Deák Ferenc tér), then walk or take tram 2 to the riverfront meeting point on your voucher.

Taxis & Rideshares

A taxi or rideshare can drop you close to your specific pier. Show the driver the exact dock name or address from your ticket (for example, “Jane Haining rakpart pier X, Pest side”).

Luggage

Boats usually have limited space for large bags. It’s better to leave big suitcases at your hotel or in a luggage storage before going to the pier.

Time Buffer

When coming straight from the station or airport, allow extra time for traffic, ticket checks and walking between stops and the pier.

Driving, Parking & Bikes Near the Piers

Driving & Traffic

The inner city around the river can be busy and slow, especially in the evening. If you drive, expect limited street parking and one-way streets along the embankment.

Parking

Use paid car parks/garages in the city center and walk to the river. Always check local signs if you park on the street, as rules and fees can change.

Bike Sharing

Budapest has bike-sharing options and cycle paths near the Danube. Dock your bike only at official stations and walk the final stretch to the pier.

Accessibility

Many piers have ramp access, but some have steps or uneven surfaces. If you have mobility needs, arrive early and contact the cruise operator listed on your ticket for the most accessible boarding option.

Practical Boarding Tips for Danube Cruises

Arrive 15–20 Minutes Early

Boats depart on a tight schedule. Plan to reach the meeting point at least 15–20 minutes before departure for check-in and boarding.

Have Your Ticket Ready

Keep your mobile voucher or printed ticket handy. Staff will scan your code or check your name on the list before you step aboard.

Dress for River Breeze

Even in summer, it can feel cooler on the water. Bring a light jacket or wrap, especially for evening cruises on open decks.

Food, Drinks & Inclusions

Check what your ticket includes: welcome drinks, unlimited prosecco or cocktails, dinner, or simply a drink option. Each product description on GetYourGuide clearly lists the inclusions.

Unlimited Prosecco Cruise Unlimited Cocktails Cruise

Danube Cruise Getting There Cheatsheet

Main Area

Piers along the Pest river promenade between the Chain and Elizabeth Bridges, plus some Buda-side docks.

Key Hubs

Deák Ferenc tér & Vörösmarty tér for Pest-side cruises. Batthyány tér for some Buda-side departures.

Best Tram

Tram 2 along the Pest riverbank – scenic and practical for many cruise piers.

Walking Time

Deák Ferenc tér → Pest piers: ~10–15 min • Vörösmarty tér → piers: ~5–10 min on foot.

Arrival Time

Aim to reach the meeting point 15–20 minutes before departure for check-in and boarding.

Popular Options

Short city cruises, evening cruises with drinks, and dinner cruises with live music on the Danube.

Dinner & Live Music Cruise Candlelit Dinner Cruise

Ready to Board Your Budapest Danube River Cruise?

Make your way to the central Danube piers, arrive a little early, and enjoy Budapest’s skyline, bridges and landmarks from the water on a daytime, sunset or evening cruise.

See Evening Cruises & Drinks