Lake Balaton, Hungary
Locavy ratings
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4.5/5
Relaxation
Top 20
5/5
Value
3/5
Transport Links
2/5
Experiences
4.5/5
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4.5/5
Relaxation
Top 20
5/5
Value
3/5
Transport Links
2/5
Experiences
4.5/5
At a glance
Often dubbed the Hungarian Sea, Lake Balaton is a top choice for a tranquil summer getaway.
Party
For the best party scene near Lake Balaton, Siófok is a must-visit. Known as the region’s party town, it boasts lively nightlife on Petőfi Promenade, with top bars and nightclubs like Renegade Pub and Restaurant and La Siesta Cocktail Bar.
Sightseeing
Lake Balaton is one of Hungary’s most beautiful destinations. Visit Szigliget Castle for picturesque views of the lake and surrounding area, or explore the charming streets of Tihany and its famed Benedictine Abbey. Additionally, tour Tapolca’s Lake Caves for an unforgettable underground adventure.
Relaxation
Lake Balaton is perfect for a relaxing summer break. The south coast offers beautiful beaches for sunbathing, while the renowned Hévíz Spa, home to the world’s largest thermal lake, provides a rejuvenating experience.
Value
Lake Balaton is one of the more expensive areas in Hungary, attracting many of the country’s wealthiest visitors. However, prices are still affordable compared to much of Western Europe. To reduce costs, tourists are advised to book accommodation and activities in advance.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
There is no local international airport near Lake Balaton. Tourists typically fly into Budapest and then take a train, bus or drive to the lake, which is 117 km away.
Train
Taking the train is a highly recommended way to visit Lake Balaton. Regular daily trains run along both the north and south shores. Tourists can ride to Balatonfüred for the north and Siófok for the south.
Drive
Hiring a car is the best way to explore Lake Balaton and its surroundings. While towns and villages are connected by bus, driving allows you to easily visit the best spots. The north offers excellent hikes and wineries that are difficult to reach by public transport.
Experiences
Lake Balaton offers a variety of great experiences. Boating on the lake is very popular, providing stunning views. Enjoy wine tours in the northern vineyards, sampling Hungary’s finest wines. Relax at Hévíz Spa with its therapeutic thermal waters, and explore the historic village of Tihany.
Best Things To Do
1. Explore Lake Balaton by Boat
Setting sail on a boat is a must when visiting Lake Balaton. Hiring a sailboat lets you explore the vast lake on your own terms, offering a unique perspective of its scenic beauty.
Book in advance during peak summer months to ensure availability. Prices start around €30 per hour.
2. Discover Szigliget Castle
Szigliget Castle is the most famous attraction in the area. This stunning 13th-century castle ruin is situated on a hill, providing some of the best views of Lake Balaton. Don’t miss the highly rated museum located on the premises.
Wear comfortable shoes for the climb and bring a camera for the panoramic views. Admission is approximately €5.
3. Relax on Lake Balaton's Beaches
Many tourists from all over Central Europe flock to the shores of Lake Balaton during the summer months. Soaking in the sun here is a highly recommended activity, with plenty of beaches offering sunbeds, umbrellas, and clear waters.
Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends. Beach entry fees vary, averaging around €2-€5.
4. Explore Tapolca's Lake Caves
Visiting Tapolca’s lake caves is a unique experience. Tourists can take a small rowing boat through the narrow cave network, where the clear blue water creates a magical atmosphere. There is also a museum on-site depicting the cave’s history.
Purchase tickets online to avoid long lines. Admission is approximately €8
5. Experience a Wine Tour
Consider taking a wine tour when visiting Lake Balaton. These tours are plentiful in the Badacsony region and are an excellent way to experience and learn about Hungary’s famous wine.
Book a guided tour for the best experience, including tastings and transport. Prices start at €25 per person.
6. Hike Around Lake Balaton
The surrounding countryside of Lake Balaton offers a wealth of excellent hiking opportunities. Explore the beautiful rolling hills or take part in segments of the Lake Balaton loop for stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.
Bring plenty of water and a map. Some trails can be challenging, so wear appropriate footwear.
7. Visit Historic Tihany
Tihany is a beautiful, historic village situated on the coast of Lake Balaton. Getting lost in the enchanting cobbled streets is highly recommended. Tihany is famed for its beautiful Benedictine Abbey and unique lavender ice cream.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. Entry to the Abbey is about €3.
8. Relax at Hévíz Spa
Hévíz is home to the world’s largest thermal lake. Visiting the spa here is an excellent way to relax, with a variety of treatments available, from mud baths to massages.
Weekdays are less crowded. Entry fees start at €15.
9. Paddleboard on Lake Balaton
Paddleboarding is one of the most popular summer activities at Lake Balaton. This can be done all across the lake, but taking a sunset tour from Tihany is especially recommended.
Reserve your paddleboard in advance. Prices start at €10 per hour.
10. Tour Festetics Palace
Festetics Palace, located in the heart of Keszthely, is full of character and is one of the largest palaces in Hungary. Touring the grounds is an excellent way to spend the day. The on-site carriage museum and surrounding nature reserve are also worth visiting.
Purchase tickets in advance to skip the lines. Admission is around €9.
1. Explore Lake Balaton by Boat
Setting sail on a boat is a must when visiting Lake Balaton. Hiring a sailboat lets you explore the vast lake on your own terms, offering a unique perspective of its scenic beauty.
Book in advance during peak summer months to ensure availability. Prices start around €30 per hour.
2. Discover Szigliget Castle
Szigliget Castle is the most famous attraction in the area. This stunning 13th-century castle ruin is situated on a hill, providing some of the best views of Lake Balaton. Don’t miss the highly rated museum located on the premises.
Wear comfortable shoes for the climb and bring a camera for the panoramic views. Admission is approximately €5.
3. Relax on Lake Balaton's Beaches
Many tourists from all over Central Europe flock to the shores of Lake Balaton during the summer months. Soaking in the sun here is a highly recommended activity, with plenty of beaches offering sunbeds, umbrellas, and clear waters.
Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends. Beach entry fees vary, averaging around €2-€5.
4. Explore Tapolca's Lake Caves
Visiting Tapolca’s lake caves is a unique experience. Tourists can take a small rowing boat through the narrow cave network, where the clear blue water creates a magical atmosphere. There is also a museum on-site depicting the cave’s history.
Purchase tickets online to avoid long lines. Admission is approximately €8
5. Experience a Wine Tour
Consider taking a wine tour when visiting Lake Balaton. These tours are plentiful in the Badacsony region and are an excellent way to experience and learn about Hungary’s famous wine.
Book a guided tour for the best experience, including tastings and transport. Prices start at €25 per person.
6. Hike Around Lake Balaton
The surrounding countryside of Lake Balaton offers a wealth of excellent hiking opportunities. Explore the beautiful rolling hills or take part in segments of the Lake Balaton loop for stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.
Bring plenty of water and a map. Some trails can be challenging, so wear appropriate footwear.
7. Visit Historic Tihany
Tihany is a beautiful, historic village situated on the coast of Lake Balaton. Getting lost in the enchanting cobbled streets is highly recommended. Tihany is famed for its beautiful Benedictine Abbey and unique lavender ice cream.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. Entry to the Abbey is about €3.
8. Relax at Hévíz Spa
Hévíz is home to the world’s largest thermal lake. Visiting the spa here is an excellent way to relax, with a variety of treatments available, from mud baths to massages.
Weekdays are less crowded. Entry fees start at €15.
9. Paddleboard on Lake Balaton
Paddleboarding is one of the most popular summer activities at Lake Balaton. This can be done all across the lake, but taking a sunset tour from Tihany is especially recommended.
Reserve your paddleboard in advance. Prices start at €10 per hour.
10. Tour Festetics Palace
Festetics Palace, located in the heart of Keszthely, is full of character and is one of the largest palaces in Hungary. Touring the grounds is an excellent way to spend the day. The on-site carriage museum and surrounding nature reserve are also worth visiting.
Purchase tickets in advance to skip the lines. Admission is around €9.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Get the Hungary Pass
Consider purchasing the Hungary Pass for unlimited rail travel across the country, especially useful for reaching the remote areas around Lake Balaton.
6.
North Shore vs South Shore
The North Shore is tranquil with beautiful landscapes and excellent wine, while the South Shore is perfect for swimming and has the best bars and restaurants.
2.
Traveling to Lake Balaton
Most tourists opt for the daily trains from Budapest to the north and south shores of Lake Balaton. Hiring a car or taking the bus are also popular options.
7.
Carry Cash
Use Hungarian forints for transactions and carry cash for small purchases.
3.
Where to Stay
To fully experience Lake Balaton, consider staying in various locations around the lake. Many tourists choose the largest city, Siófok, for its amenities.
8.
Tipping Etiquette
While not mandatory, it is customary to tip 10-15% in restaurants.
4.
When to Visit
Lake Balaton is ideal in the summer for beaches and water sports, but it’s crowded. The shoulder season offers warm waters with fewer crowds.
9.
Safety Tips
Lake Balaton is very safe, but standard precautions against theft should still be followed.
5.
Beware of Scams
Be cautious of locals claiming you need to pay to swim in certain areas of the lake. Swimming in Lake Balaton is free.
10.
Overcrowding
Lake Balaton often suffers from overcrowding in the summer, so plan accordingly if you prefer a more relaxed visit.
6.
North Shore vs South Shore
The North Shore is tranquil with beautiful landscapes and excellent wine, while the South Shore is perfect for swimming and has the best bars and restaurants.
7.
Carry Cash
Use Hungarian forints for transactions and carry cash for small purchases.
8.
Tipping Etiquette
While not mandatory, it is customary to tip 10-15% in restaurants.
9.
Safety Tips
Lake Balaton is very safe, but standard precautions against theft should still be followed.
10.
Overcrowding
Lake Balaton often suffers from overcrowding in the summer, so plan accordingly if you prefer a more relaxed visit.