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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

10 Best Things to Do in Balaton Lake

1. Swim in Lake Balaton

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

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

2. Visit Tihany Abbey

Explore the stunning 18th-century Benedictine monastery.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

3. Bike the Balaton Circle

Cycle around the beautiful 200 km lake path.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

4. Explore Keszthely Castle

Discover the rich history in this grand palace.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Wine tasting in Badacsony

Savor local wines with scenic vineyard views.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

6. Visit the Balaton Museum

Learn about the lake's ecology and cultural history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

7. Take a boat trip on the lake

Cruise the picturesque waters of Lake Balaton.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

8. Relax in a thermal bath

Experience wellness at the lake's famous spas.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

9. Enjoy Balaton Sound Festival

Experience Hungary's biggest electronic music festival.

Seasonal

Adults only

Booking required

1 hr

10. Hike in the Balaton Uplands National Park

Discover beautiful trails and stunning panoramas.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2.5 hrs

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)