Zalakaros - Discovering Hungary

Travelling to Zalakaros

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Zalakaros, 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 Zalakaros 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 Zalakaros, 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 Zalakaros for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Zalakaros

Zalakaros is a small town in southwestern Hungary, known for its thermal spa and wellness facilities. It has a population of around 1,800 people, but attracts many tourists throughout the year due to its hot springs and outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling. The town is located near Lake Balaton, the largest lake in Central Europe, and is surrounded by beautiful countryside, forests, and vineyards. Zalakaros is also a popular destination for families and has several parks, playgrounds, and events throughout the year.

What to visit in Zalakaros

Zalakaros is a beautiful small town located in southwestern Hungary and is known for its thermal spa waters. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Zalakaros: 1. Zalakaros Thermal Spa: One of the main attractions of Zalakaros is its thermal spa. The spa is known for its healing waters and offers a variety of indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and relaxation areas. It's open year-round, making it an ideal destination for all seasons.
2. Go-Kart Track: The Go-Kart Track in Zalakaros offers visitors the opportunity to experience the thrill of racing. It's an ideal activity for friends and families to enjoy together with different track lengths to choose from.
3. Kápolna Lookout Tower: The Kápolna Lookout Tower provides birds-eye views of Zalakaros and the surrounding areas. The tower is 27 meters high and can be reached by stairs or by elevator.
4. Kis-Balaton: Kis-Balaton is a beautiful nature reserve located near Zalakaros. It's home to different bird species and offers visitors a relaxing and serene atmosphere.
5. Zala Springs Golf Resort: The Zala Springs Golf Resort is a championship golf course that offers a challenging and enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels. It's set in a beautiful natural environment where players can enjoy the picturesque scenery while playing golf.
6. Buffalo Reserve: The Buffalo Reserve is a great place to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. Visitors can take a guided tour of the reserve and learn more about these endangered animals.
7. St. Andrew's Church: The St. Andrew's Church is a beautiful baroque-style church located in the heart of Zalakaros. It was built in the 18th century and is a great place to explore the history and architecture of the town.
8. Zalakaros Arboretum: The Zalakaros Arboretum is a botanical garden that's home to over 400 plant species. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature in Zalakaros.
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.

When to go on holiday to Zalakaros

Zalakaros is a popular tourist destination in Hungary known for its thermal baths. The best time to visit Zalakaros depends on your preferences and interests. If you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities, the summer months (June to August) are the best time to visit. The average temperature during this time is around 27°C, perfect for swimming in the thermal pools and exploring the surrounding nature.
If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 10-20°C. Winter (December to February) is also a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports and festive activities. Zalakaros offers a range of winter activities, such as ice-skating and skiing, as well as traditional Christmas markets.
Overall, Zalakaros is beautiful and enjoyable year-round, so you can plan your trip based on your preferences.

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

How to get to Zalakaros

Zalakaros is a small town in southwestern Hungary, located approximately 200 km southwest of Budapest. Here are the transportation options to get there: 1. By car: You can rent a car in Budapest and drive to Zalakaros. The trip takes around 2.5 hours. The route includes highways M7 and M7/E71.
2. By train: There is no direct train to Zalakaros. You need to take a train from Budapest to Nagykanizsa, which is the closest town with a train station, and then take a bus or taxi to Zalakaros. The journey takes around 3.5 hours.
3. By bus: Several bus companies operate from Budapest to Zalakaros. The journey takes around 3.5 hours. You can find the schedules and book tickets online.
4. By taxi: You can hire a taxi or a private transfer from Budapest to Zalakaros. This option is more expensive but also more convenient.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Zalakaros!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Zalakaros, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Zalakaros

Zalakaros is a small town located in southwestern Hungary, known for its thermal baths and beautiful countryside. Here are some typical foods that you can try when visiting Zalakaros: 1. Goulash soup: A hearty soup made with beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and paprika, which is the national spice of Hungary.
2. Langos: A deep-fried dough, similar to a flatbread, topped with sour cream and grated cheese or garlic.
3. Hungarian-style stuffed cabbage: Cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of ground pork, rice, onions, and spices, and then baked in a tomato-based sauce.
4. Chimney cake: A sweet pastry made from dough that is rolled around a cylinder-shaped form and cooked over an open flame. The outside is crispy and coated in cinnamon sugar.
5. Dobos cake: A layer cake made with five or six layers of thin sponge cake, chocolate buttercream, and caramelized sugar on top.
6. Paprika chicken: Chicken cooked with onions, tomatoes, and paprika, and then served with rice or potatoes.
7. Palacsinta: Thin, crepe-like pancakes filled with sweet fillings like jam, Nutella, or cheese. 8. Hungarian sausages: Spicy or mild pork sausages seasoned with paprika, garlic, and other spices.
9. Turos táska: A small, crescent-shaped pastry filled with a mixture of curd cheese and sugar.
10. Rákóczi túrós: A sweet and tangy cottage cheese dessert that is baked with raisins and topped with whipped cream.
You can find general info about typical foods in Hungary here.

Is Zalakaros an expensive destination for tourists?

Zalakaros is known to be a popular spa town in Hungary, so the expenses might vary depending on the type of activities or services you want to avail of. Generally, compared to other European destinations, Zalakaros is not considered as an expensive tourist destination. However, prices may vary based on factors like your travel, accommodation, dining options, and the time of year you plan to visit. It's always best to research and compare prices in advance to budget accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Zalakaros

The best areas to find accommodation in Zalakaros, Hungary are the city center and the areas near the Thermal Spa and Aquapark. These locations offer easy access to the town's main attractions, restaurants, and cafes. There are also several accommodation options located on the outskirts of the town surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. It ultimately depends on your preferences and what kind of experience you are looking for.
You can check hotel prices at Zalakaros here:
Booking.com

Is Zalakaros a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Zalakaros is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Hungary is known as a safe country for visitors travel to. However, it's always a good idea to take the necessary precautions when traveling, such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping an eye on your belongings, and avoiding isolated areas at night. It's also important to follow any local laws and regulations as you would in any foreign destination. As long as you exercise common sense and take the necessary precautions, you should have a safe and enjoyable experience in Zalakaros.
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 Zalakaros.

What type of travelers will enjoy Zalakaros the most?

Zalakaros is a destination that caters to a wide range of travelers, including couples, families, and young people. Couples will find the town a perfect place, with plenty of romantic activities such as lounging in the thermal baths or exploring the nearby vineyards. The peaceful ambiance of the town is a perfect backdrop for a memorable romantic getaway.
Families will also enjoy the town as there are many fun-filled activities, the town has several parks, playgrounds, and other attractions where children can enjoy and spend quality time with their families.
Young people looking for fun will also appreciate the town, for its vibrant nightlife, the town has several bars, clubs, and restaurants where they can party and have fun. Zalakaros offers a perfect mix of activities and experiences for all types of travelers.

How to get around Zalakaros

Zalakaros is a small town in Hungary and the most common way to move around is walking. However, if you plan to visit the surroundings or go to other cities, you could use buses or car rental services. Taxis are also an option, but they could be more expensive. Additionally, cycling is a popular and convenient way to explore the town and its surroundings.

What to see around Zalakaros

Sure, there are plenty of nice places to visit near Zalakaros for a day trip. Below are some suggestions: 1. Lake Balaton - It is the largest lake in Central Europe and located just an hour drive from Zalakaros. You can enjoy water activities like swimming, boating, and fishing or explore the charming villages.
2. Heviz - It is a famous spa town with a natural thermal lake, which is good for treating various medical conditions. You can also wander around the town and visit the local museums.
3. Keszthely - It is a historical town near Lake Balaton, known for its Baroque-style palace called Festetics Palace. The palace also has a beautiful garden and a museum.
4. Sümeg Castle - It is a well-preserved medieval castle located in the hills of Sümeg. You can explore the castle, climb to the tower for breathtaking views, and attend knight tournaments.
5. Nagykanizsa - It is a charming town with a rich history and many cultural sites like St. John the Baptist Cathedral and Flower Clock Square. I hope these suggestions help you plan your day trips from Zalakaros.
For every travel information about Hungary you can click here.

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