Budapest M1 metro MFAV MillFAV Millenniumi Foldalatti Vasut Mexikoi ut metro station track

Mexikói Út

Mexikói Út: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites in Budapest

Date: 2025-06-15

Introduction

Nestled in Budapest’s Zugló district, Mexikói Út station is the northern terminus of the historic M1 metro line—the Millennium Underground Railway. As the oldest underground railway on the European continent and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the M1 line showcases Budapest’s rapid urban growth and late-19th-century technological innovation. Mexikói Út, opened as an extension in 1973, is a critical transit hub and a gateway to iconic attractions such as City Park (Városliget), the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Heroes’ Square, and Vajdahunyad Castle.

This comprehensive guide provides essential information for travelers, including operating hours, ticketing options, accessibility, and nearby attractions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or a first-time visitor, Mexikói Út offers a seamless entry point to both Budapest’s heritage and its vibrant modern life.

For real-time schedules and ticketing, consult Budapest Transport (BKK) and discover historical insights at UrbanRail.net.

Budapest M1 metro train MFAV at Mexikói út station

Budapest M1 metro MFAV train on Millenniumi Földalatti Vasút at Mexikói út station

Introduction
Historical Background of Mexikói Út and M1 Metro
- Origins and Expansion
- The 1973 Extension
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Access
Top Attractions Near Mexikói Út
Dining and Local Experiences
Practical Tips for Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary Table: At-a-Glance Information
Conclusion
References and Further Reading

Historical Background of Mexikói Út and the M1 Metro

Origins and Expansion

The M1 metro line—Millennium Underground Railway (Millenniumi Földalatti Vasút or “Kisföldalatti”)—was inaugurated in 1896, commemorating Hungary’s millennium (hu.wikipedia.org). Originally running between Vörösmarty tér and Széchenyi fürdő beneath Andrássy Avenue, the M1 was a marvel of its era, built by Siemens & Halske to connect Budapest’s center with the sprawling City Park (Városliget), the venue for the 1896 Millennium Exhibition (urbanrail.net). Its construction was a response to the city’s rapid growth and the desire to preserve Andrássy Avenue’s character by avoiding surface trams and omnibuses.

The 1973 Extension

For decades, the M1 line ended at Széchenyi fürdő. In 1973, reflecting the city’s ongoing expansion, the line was extended underground to Mexikói Út, adding 1.5 km to the route (hu.wikipedia.org). This extension improved connectivity for the Zugló district, introduced a new train depot, and marked a shift toward modernist design at the new terminus, while the original stations retained their ornate, historicist style (urbanrail.net).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Access

Opening Hours

Mexikói Út station and the M1 metro line operate daily from approximately 4:30 AM to 11:30 PM.
Timetables may vary during holidays or maintenance; check BKK’s official site for real-time updates.

Tickets and Fares

Single ticket: 450 HUF
24-hour travelcard: 2,500 HUF
Budapest Card: Unlimited public transport and discounts at major attractions (Budapest Card)

Tickets are available from vending machines at the station, ticket offices, and via the BudapestGO mobile app.

How to Access Mexikói Út

Metro: M1 (yellow line) from the city center (Vörösmarty tér to Mexikói Út; approx. 12 minutes)
Tram: Tram 3
Bus: Lines 25, 69, 225; Trolleybus 74A
Bike Sharing: MOL Bubi stations are nearby for flexible short trips

Accessibility

Mexikói Út station features elevators, tactile paving, and barrier-free entrances.
Most connecting trams and buses are low-floor and wheelchair accessible.
Audio-visual announcements in Hungarian and English.

Top Attractions Near Mexikói Út

City Park (Városliget)

A 24-hour, year-round green space with major landmarks:

Vajdahunyad Castle: Open grounds year-round; museums inside have individual hours.
Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden: Open daily, typically 9:00 AM–6:00 PM. Entry ~3,000 HUF (Budapest Zoo).
House of Hungarian Music: Innovative concert venue in the park.
Boating lakes and playgrounds: Free access to most outdoor areas.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Hours: 6:00 AM–10:00 PM daily
Tickets: Start at ~6,200 HUF; online booking recommended (Széchenyi Baths Official)
Features: Indoor/outdoor pools, saunas, spa services

Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere)

Open 24/7; museums around the square operate 10:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Museum of Fine Arts and Kunsthalle: Tickets ~2,000–3,000 HUF (Museum of Fine Arts)
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Iconic statues and Millennium Monument.

Andrássy Avenue

Grand boulevard lined with neo-renaissance buildings.
House of Terror Museum and Hungarian State Opera House are accessible via the M1.

Dining and Local Experiences

Traditional Hungarian Cuisine

While the immediate area around Mexikói Út is residential, the M1 line connects you to Budapest’s culinary scene:

Hungarikum Bistro: Classic Hungarian dishes (Esimo)
Gettó Gulyás: Rustic, affordable spot (Maverick Lodges)
Fakanál Étterem: Local flavors at Central Market Hall

Fine Dining

Onyx and Borkonyha Winekitchen: Michelin-starred options (Esimo)
Salt: Emphasis on sustainable, local ingredients

Street Food & Markets

Karaván Street Food Court: Lángos, chimney cakes, and more (Maverick Lodges)
Central Market Hall: Local produce and souvenirs (All Things Budapest)

Tip: Lunch menus (menü) are available 12:00–15:00 at reduced prices. Tipping 10–15% is customary.

Authentic Local Experiences

Ride the M1: Enjoy the retro ambiance and Belle Époque architecture at each station (Just Budapest)
Morning walks in City Park: Enjoy tranquility and fresh air.
Seasonal events: Danube Carnival in June, open-air concerts, and Millennium Underground Day.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Navigation: Use BudapestGO app for routes, real-time updates, and ticket purchases.
Ticket Validation: Always validate your ticket before boarding.
Safety: The area is safe, but be vigilant for pickpockets, especially during busy periods.
Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF) is standard; cards widely accepted.
Amenities: No restrooms in the station; facilities available in City Park and Széchenyi Baths.
Best times: Visit early mornings or weekdays to avoid crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Mexikói Út station’s operating hours?
A: Daily from approximately 4:30 AM to 11:30 PM.

Q: How do I buy metro tickets?
A: At station vending machines, ticket offices, or via the BudapestGO app.

Q: Is Mexikói Út accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, the station has elevators, barrier-free entrances, and accessible transport connections.

Q: What is the best ticket for tourists?
A: The 24-hour travelcard or Budapest Card offers the best value for unlimited rides and discounts.

Q: Which attractions are near Mexikói Út?
A: City Park, Széchenyi Baths, Heroes’ Square, Museum of Fine Arts, Vajdahunyad Castle.

Summary Table: Key Visitor Information

Feature	Details
Metro Line	M1 (Yellow), terminus at Mexikói Út
Connections	Bus 25, 69, 225; Tram 3; Trolleybus 74A; MOL Bubi bike sharing
Attractions	City Park, Széchenyi Baths, Heroes’ Square, Museum of Fine Arts
Ticket Price	Single: 450 HUF; 24h: 2,500 HUF; Budapest Card available
Accessibility	Elevators, tactile paving, English signage
Amenities	No station restrooms; kiosks, ATMs nearby
Hours	Metro: ~4:30 AM–11:30 PM; City Park open 24/7
Payment Methods	HUF cash, credit/debit cards, BudapestGO app
Safety	CCTV, staff, emergency numbers posted

Conclusion

Mexikói Út is more than a metro terminus; it is a vibrant intersection of Budapest’s history, culture, and urban life. As the endpoint of the Millennium Underground, it connects effortlessly to City Park, Széchenyi Baths, Heroes’ Square, and the architectural grandeur of Andrássy Avenue. With comprehensive transport links, accessibility features, and proximity to authentic local experiences, Mexikói Út is your gateway to discovering the best of Budapest.