Pestszentimre Felső Railway Station

Pestszentimre Felső Railway Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Pestszentimre Felső Railway Station is a significant suburban gateway in Budapest’s District XVIII, offering both historical value and modern commuter convenience. While it may not boast the grandeur of the city’s central stations, its role in linking southern suburbs with the heart of Budapest makes it a compelling destination for travelers seeking an authentic suburban experience or a practical transport hub. This guide provides detailed information on station history, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions, and travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Introduction
About Pestszentimre Felső Railway Station
Historical Overview
Visiting Information
Nearby Attractions and Local Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Modernization and Future Developments
Summary and Travel Advice
References

About Pestszentimre Felső Railway Station

Pestszentimre Felső, operated by Hungarian State Railways (MÁV), is situated close to Nagykőrösi út and accessible from Vasút utca and Kettős-Körös utca. Serving the Budapest–Lajosmizse railway line, it acts as a vital node for daily commuters and visitors traveling between District XVIII and the city center. The station features a modest, functional design that blends into its residential surroundings, and its “Felső” (Upper) designation distinguishes it from other stops in the area.

Historical Overview

Opened on December 24, 1911, the station has witnessed the evolution of Pestszentimre from a rural settlement into an integral part of Budapest. It began as a small stop with a guardhouse and gates, later expanding to accommodate growing commuter needs. The station notably linked with tram line 51 between 1958 and 1983, providing valuable rail-tram connections. Its continued adaptation mirrors Budapest’s broader urban and transport development.

Visiting Information

Location and Accessibility

Address: Near Nagykőrösi út, accessible from Vasút utca and Kettős-Körös utca, Budapest XVIII district.
Accessibility: The station features step-free ramps, tactile paving for visually impaired travelers, and accessible pathways. While there are no elevators, the station is suitable for wheelchair users and travelers with strollers or heavy luggage. For more details, see the MÁV accessibility guide.

Visiting Hours

Operation: Daily from approximately 4:30 AM to midnight, aligning with train schedules.
Ticket Machines: Available 24/7; there is no staffed ticket office on-site.

Ticketing and Pricing

Where to Buy: Purchase tickets at platform machines, via the MÁV app, or at BKK customer centers.
Ticket Types: Single tickets (from 350 HUF), travelcards, and passes for frequent travelers; Budapest travelcards cover suburban trains within city limits.
Validation: Tickets must be validated at orange machines on the platform. For details, refer to the BKK ticket validation guide.

Transport Connections

Train: Served by suburban trains (lines S21 and S50) connecting to Budapest-Nyugati and southern suburbs, running every 30–60 minutes.
Bus: Local BKK bus routes link the station with nearby neighborhoods.
Car/Bike: Limited free parking and bike-and-ride (B+R) facilities are available.

Nearby Attractions and Local Tips

While the immediate vicinity is primarily residential, visitors can enjoy the local flavor of Budapest’s outskirts:

Pestszentimre Community Park: Ideal for a relaxing stroll.
Local Eateries and Markets: Sample Hungarian pastries and explore daily suburban life.
Imre Park: Green space suitable for families.
Central Budapest: Accessible by train in under 30 minutes, offering access to iconic sites like Buda Castle, Parliament, and thermal baths (Budapest travel guide).

Travel Tips

Peak Hours: Avoid 7:00–9:00 AM and 4:30–6:30 PM for less crowded trains.
Apps: Use MÁV or BudapestGo for real-time schedules and route planning.
Language: Signage is bilingual; translation apps are helpful.
Facilities: No restrooms or shops at the station, but amenities are available within a short walk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: The station is open from approximately 4:30 AM to midnight, matching train schedules.

Q: Can I buy tickets at the station?
A: Yes, ticket machines accept cash or card; tickets are also available via mobile apps.

Q: Is the station accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with step-free ramps and tactile paving, though there are no elevators.

Q: Are there nearby historical landmarks?
A: The area is mainly residential, but central Budapest’s historic sites are easily accessible by train.

Q: Can I bring a bicycle on the train?
A: Yes, outside peak hours. See the MÁV bike policy for details.

Modernization and Future Developments

Pestszentimre Felső is part of ongoing upgrades to the Budapest–Lajosmizse line:

Electrification: Plans to replace diesel trains with electric services for faster and greener travel.
Increased Frequency: Service improvements will bring trains every 10–15 minutes on inner sections.
Accessibility: Enhanced platforms and new park-and-ride/bike-and-ride options.
Infrastructure: Upgrades in signaling, removal of level crossings, and improved passenger facilities.

These developments will further integrate the station into Budapest’s modern, multimodal transport network, supporting sustainable urban mobility and easing congestion.

Summary and Travel Advice

Pestszentimre Felső Railway Station is a cornerstone of Budapest’s suburban rail network, blending historical significance with modern functionality. Its accessible design, frequent service, and location in a peaceful residential area make it a practical choice for commuters and an insightful destination for visitors. Ongoing improvements—including electrification and increased train frequency—will only enhance its role as a gateway to southern Budapest.

For seamless travel, use the MÁV app and BudapestGo app, plan your trip outside peak hours, and explore both the local suburban atmosphere and Budapest’s world-renowned city center.