Balaton - Discovering Hungary

Travelling to Balaton

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Balaton, a pretty good destination in Hungary (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Balaton and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Balaton, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Hungary, here's everything to know about Balaton for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Balaton

Balaton is a large freshwater lake located in western Hungary, about 100 kilometers southwest of Budapest. It is also known as the "Hungarian Sea" as it is the largest lake in Central Europe and attracts millions of tourists every year. Surrounded by picturesque villages, vineyards and forests, Balaton offers a variety of recreational activities such as boating, swimming, fishing and cycling. The lake itself is over 77 kilometers long and up to 14 kilometers wide, so there are many different areas to explore. Along its shores, visitors can find many resorts, thermal spas and wine routes where they can taste some of the best wines produced in Hungary. Balaton is a popular holiday destination for both Hungarians and foreign visitors, and is a great place for families, couples and solo travelers alike.

What to visit in Balaton

Here are some tourist attractions in Balaton, Hungary and information about each of them: 1. Lake Balaton: It is the largest lake in Central Europe and a popular tourist destination in Hungary. The lake is about 48 miles long and has several beaches and resorts around it.
2. Tihany Abbey: It is a Benedictine abbey located on the Tihany Peninsula overlooking Lake Balaton. The abbey dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest historical monuments in Hungary.
3. Keszthely Castle: This is a baroque-style castle located in the town of Keszthely on the western shore of Lake Balaton. It was built in the 18th century and houses the Helikon Palace Museum.
4. Festetics Palace: This is another grand castle located in the town of Keszthely. It was built in the 18th century and is now a museum showcasing the lives of the Hungarian aristocracy.
5. Szigliget Castle: It is a medieval castle located on the northern shore of Lake Balaton. The castle dates back to the 13th century and offers beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding countryside.
6. Balaton Uplands National Park: This is a protected nature reserve located on the northern shore of Lake Balaton. It offers hiking trails, panoramic views, and diverse wildlife.
7. Balatonfüred: It is a popular resort town located on the northern shore of Lake Balaton. It has several beaches, a marina, and many restaurants and shops.
8. Badacsony: It is a volcanic mountain located on the northern shore of Lake Balaton. It's a great spot for hiking and offers beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding vineyards.
I hope this information helps in planning a trip to Balaton!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Hungary, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Balaton.

When to go on holiday to Balaton

The best time to visit Balaton in Hungary depends on what you are interested in doing during your vacation. If you want to enjoy the lake's water activities, then the best time to go is during the summer months between June to August when the weather is warm and sunny. During this time, you can swim, appreciate the scenic view, and take part in various water sports activities. If you prefer a more peaceful retreat, then the best months to visit are April, May, and September, when the weather is moderate with fewer crowds and more reasonable prices. You can explore vineyards, take advantage of the hot springs or simply relax amidst the beautiful countryside. However, if you are a fan of winter sports, the best time to visit Balaton would be between December and March when you can partake in ice-skating, skiing, and other winter-related activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Balaton

There are several ways to get to Balaton, Hungary's largest lake: 1. By car: Balaton is easily accessible by car from major cities like Budapest, Vienna, and Bratislava. The drive from Budapest takes around 2 hours.
2. By train: Several trains run daily from Budapest to Balaton. The journey takes around 2-3 hours depending on the destination.
3. By bus: Buses also run frequently from Budapest to Balaton and take around 2-3 hours.
4. By plane: The closest airport to Balaton is the Hévíz-Balaton Airport, which is located about 20 kilometers from the lake. There are flights from several European cities to this airport.
Once you reach Balaton, there are several towns and villages around the lake to explore. Popular ones include Siófok, Tihany, and Keszthely.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Balaton, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Balaton

Sure, here are some typical foods of Balaton, Hungary with a brief explanation for each: 1. Lángos - a deep-fried dough made from wheat flour, potato, and yeast, traditionally topped with sour cream and grated cheese.
2. Halászlé - a hot and spicy fish soup made with freshwater fish, paprika, and vegetables.
3. Töltött Káposzta - a dish made of cabbage leaves stuffed with a filling of ground meat, rice, and herbs, and then baked and served with sour cream.
4. Csirkepaprikás - a paprika-spiced chicken stew often served with nokedli (small dumplings).
5. Sztrapacska - a type of Hungarian spaetzle, tossed with butter and bacon, and served with sour cream.
6. Gundel Palacsinta - a Hungarian-style crepe filled with a sweet mixture of ground walnuts, rum, and raisins, and then served with a chocolate sauce.
7. Somlói Galuska - a multi-layered dessert made of sponge cake, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and walnuts, often served in a glass.
8. Rétes - a sweet pastry filled with various fruits or cheese, often served with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Hope this helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
You can find general info about typical foods in Hungary here.

Is Balaton an expensive destination for tourists?

Balaton can be considered a fairly affordable destination for tourists, especially compared to other European destinations. However, the prices can vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation and activities you choose. During the peak season (July-August), prices for accommodation and activities could be higher. But if you plan to visit outside the peak season, prices might be lower, and you can enjoy the same activities and attractions at a more reasonable price.
Overall, Balaton offers a range of affordable options for tourists, from budget-friendly accommodations to cheaper transportation options, making it a great destination for travelers on a budget.

Where to find accomodation in Balaton

In order to visit Balaton in Hungary, the best areas to find accommodation are: 1. Siófok: It is the largest city on the lakeside and is known for its vibrant nightlife, great beaches, and waterfront parks.
2. Balatonfüred: It is a charming resort town known for its promenade, beautiful architecture, and a variety of cultural attractions.
3. Tihany: It is a picturesque village located on a peninsula in the lake and famous for its stunning views, a Benedictine abbey, and lavender fields.
4. Keszthely: It is a historic town on the western side of the lake, known for its 18th-century Baroque palace and stunning gardens.
5. Badacsony: It is a small village that lies on the north shore of the lake, known for its vineyards, hiking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
You can check hotel prices at Balaton here:
Booking.com

Is Balaton a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Balaton is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The crime rate is low and the area is heavily touristed, so there is a visible police presence. However, as with any travel destination, it is always important to take standard safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping your valuables secure, and not taking unnecessary risks.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Hungary here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Balaton.

What type of travelers will enjoy Balaton the most?

Balaton is a beautiful destination in Hungary that offers a wide range of activities suitable for various types of travelers. Couples looking for a relaxing and romantic getaway will enjoy the scenic beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and the diverse dining options around the lake.
Young people looking for fun will find plenty of opportunities for water sports, nightlife, and adventure activities.
Families can enjoy the beaches, water parks, and a variety of cultural festivities that occur in the region during summer.
Overall, Balaton allows travelers to create their own personalized itinerary to fit their interest and taste, making it a popular destination for different types of travelers.

How to get around Balaton

There are various ways to move around Balaton, Hungary. You can rent a car or a bike which gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. There are also trains and buses that connect the towns around the lake. The ferry/boat is available to travel around the lake and explore different areas. Depending on your preferences, budget, and travel requirements, you can choose the best transportation option for your trip.

What to see around Balaton

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Balaton, Hungary: 1. Tihany Peninsula: This beautiful peninsula boasts the Tihany Abbey and its stunning views over the lake.
2. The Káli Basin: This region is known for its scenic hills, quaint villages, and several hiking trails. 3. Hévíz: This town is home to the largest thermal lake in Europe, which provides year-round swimming opportunities.
4. Pécs: This nearby city is known for its Mediterranean atmosphere, historic architecture, and cultural attractions.
5. Sümeg Castle: This well-preserved medieval castle sits atop a hill and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
6. Siófok: Often referred to as the "capital of Balaton," Siófok is a popular resort town with beaches, restaurants, and nightlife options.
7. Badacsony: This picturesque village is surrounded by vineyards and offers fantastic views of the lake and surrounding hills. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any further questions.
For every travel information about Hungary you can click here.

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