Balaton Lake

Hungary, Europe

Lake Balaton, the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and vibrant culture. Known as the 'Hungarian Sea,' it offers sandy beaches, water sports, and wine regions nearby, particularly in places like Tihany and Badacsony. Visitors can explore historic sites, enjoy local cuisine at lakeside cafes, and participate in lively summer festivals. With its idyllic atmosphere, Lake Balaton is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Body of Water

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Ferihegy

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Balaton Lake

1

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Swim in Lake Balaton

Enjoy the refreshing waters of Central Europe's largest lake.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Tihany Abbey

Explore the stunning 18th-century Benedictine monastery.

No booking required
3

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Bike the Balaton Circle

Cycle around the beautiful 200 km lake path.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Keszthely Castle

Discover the rich history in this grand palace.

No booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Wine tasting in Badacsony

Savor local wines with scenic vineyard views.

Booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Balaton Museum

Learn about the lake's ecology and cultural history.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a boat trip on the lake

Cruise the picturesque waters of Lake Balaton.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax in a thermal bath

Experience wellness at the lake's famous spas.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Seasonal

Adults only

Enjoy Balaton Sound Festival

Experience Hungary's biggest electronic music festival.

Booking required
10

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike in the Balaton Uplands National Park

Discover beautiful trails and stunning panoramas.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-5 (#93 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Forint

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Hungarian

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Goulash

Hearty meat and vegetable stew. (National dish)

Chicken Paprikash

Chicken in a creamy paprika sauce.

Lángos

V

Deep-fried flatbread, often topped.

Halászlé

Spicy fish soup with paprika.

Dobos Torte

V

Layered chocolate sponge cake with caramel.

Phrases to learn

English

Hungarian

Hello

Szia

(See-ah)

Yes/No

Igen / Nem

(Ee-gen / Nem)

Thank you

Köszönöm

(Kuh-se-nuhm)

Excuse me

Elnézést

(El-nay-zesht)

How much?

Mennyibe kerül?

(Men-yee-beh keh-rul)