Everyone knows about the famous Tram 4 & 6, as well as the Tram 2. But not many people know about Budapest’s Tram 60, aka the Budapest cogwheel train. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Budapest, I highly recommend journeying on the Budapest Cogwheel Railway. It’s very accessible and won’t even cost you an extra penny if you already have a valid Budapest travel pass!
What is the Cogwheel Railway?
Known as Fogaskerekű in Hungarian, the cogwheel is one of Budapest’s best-kept secrets. Construction of the railway began in the 19th century when the Buda Hills started gaining popularity, resulting in the construction of the railway that runs from Városmajor Park to Széchenyi-hegy.
Brief History of the Budapest Cogwheel Train
The era of the cogwheel went through different stages: from construction to being operational and then being outdated and shut down.
Luckily, the hot, firey red cogwheel opened in 1926 and gained its status as a vintage transportation system. The joyful ride didn’t last very long, as it shut down again.
Several years later, it was operational but unfortunately involved in a tragic accident where two drivers lost their lives. This happened in 1987 due to heavy snow and frost.
It may sound scary and even alarming, but there’s no reason for concern. The cogwheel railway was repaired, and it’s currently operating in a very good state.
If you want to be extra cautious, I suggest riding the train during the warmer months of Budapest, when there’s no chance of ice on the rail tracks.
Riding the Budapest Cogwheel Railway
While the cogwheel is a fun activity for locals and internationals, it’s a very handy and necessary means of transport for locals who live in Svábhegy. This is one of the reasons why your ordinary BKK pass is also valid on the cogwheel.
Depending on whether you have a digital ticket or a physical one, you’re going to validate your ticket as you normally would.
Many publications also advise checking the cogwheel Budapest schedule, but I think that’s more relevant when you’re traveling on public holidays or at late hours.
But, just in case, you can find the full cogwheel railway schedule here.
Why ride the Budapest Cogwheel?
So, why exactly should you ride the Budapest cogwheel? Well, for many reasons. If this vintage train hasn’t charmed you enough, here are a few other reasons that can sway you.
1. Enjoy striking views of Buda
The cogwheel train goes up the hills, giving you an amazing backdrop of the Budapest skyline. You can see the river and many other attractions on your way up and down the hill.
Another attraction near the last Budapest cogwheel railway station is the Szechenyi Monument. I randomly stumbled upon it and was blown away by how charming it was.
2. Take the chance to hike
A lot of the people who ride the cogwheel do so for this reason! The railway passes through some untouched greenery, with hiking and cycling trails for those with an adventurous spirit.
Bring your best hiking shoes here and enjoy a peaceful stroll near Normafa and within Széchenyi Hills.
3. Switch to the Children’s Railway
Another fascinating thing you can do in the Buda side of the city, and specifically District 2, is ride the Children’s railway.
A few people may find this odd, but it’s actually quite unique if you think about it.
The trains are, of course, driven by adults by ticket collection, and everything else is managed by children.
4. It’s inexpensive
And it won’t cost anything extra if you have a valid monthly travel pass. For those residing in Budapest, chances are you already have a valid monthly pass. If that’s the case, you can ride the Budapest cogwheel railway for no extra cost.
However, those without the pass will need to purchase cogwheel Budapest tickets and validate them.
How to get the Budapest Cogwheel Train
Now that you know everything there is to know about the cogwheel, it’s time to learn about the fun part.
If you live in the center, the easiest way to get Tram 60, the Budapest cogwheel, is by getting to Varosmajor Park. Depending on where you are in the city, you can get here directly by bus or tram, for instance, bus 5 from Blaha Lujza Ter. An alternative is to get to Szell Kalman Ter and then get any bus stopping at Varosmajor Park.
Once at the park, you’ll see the cogwheel railway station, and all you have to do is walk in and wait at the platform. The platform is right by the entrance, and it will be on your right.
Board the train when it arrives and enjoy the ride!
EXTRA TIPS:
- Once you get to the last station, you can enjoy a hike around the area and return to the railway station to catch the train back to the city.
- Alternatively, you can go to Normafa and take the bus back to the city center.
- If you’re really up for an adventure, head to the Children’s Railway Station and take this train on your way back to the city. (Note that they only take cash).
