Discover the best holiday destinations in Budapest's Lake Balaton area

Published: 2023-06-06

With summer just around the corner, it’s time to start packing your bags for a much-needed vacation. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy sizzling summer days, there is no better place to visit than Hungary's Lake Balaton area. Dubbed the "Hungarian Sea," Lake Balaton is a beautiful tourist destination that offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors. In this article, we will explore the top three destinations in Lake Balaton that you should visit on your next holiday.

Located on the southern shore of Lake Balaton, Siófok is a vibrant and popular tourist destination that has much to offer visitors. It is known as the "capital" of the lake and is famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural heritage. Siófok Beach is the perfect place to spend the day sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the cooling waters of the lake. If you love outdoor activities, you can rent water sports equipment and explore the lake in a fun and adventurous way. For those who enjoy relaxing and rejuvenating, Galerius Wellness and Spa is a must-visit destination near Siófok. Siófok also boasts several cultural and historical sites, including the Water Tower, Holy Trinity Church and the Protestant Church.

Tihany is located on the northern shore of Lake Balaton and offers visitors a unique window into the hidden opportunities and gems of Balaton. It is situated on a peninsula that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. Nature lovers and hikers can indulge in picturesque hills, meadows, and forests. Tihany is famous for its Benedictine Abbey, which is a significant historical site and beautifully preserved architectural gem. Visitors can explore the abbey's interior, admire the tranquil courtyards, and enjoy the serene beauty of the region. Tihany is also famous for its lavender cultivation and lush, vibrant purple fields that are a treat for the eyes.

Located on the western shore of Lake Balaton, Keszthely is a picturesque town that offers visitors a range of attractions and activities. The town is renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage, and the Festetics Palace is one of the main highlights. It is one of Hungary's largest Baroque-style castles and boasts stunning architecture, lavish interiors, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Today, the palace serves as a museum where visitors can explore various rooms, including the library, chapel, and exhibition halls, showcasing art, historical artifacts, and antique furniture. For beach lovers, Keszthely has several beaches along the shores of Lake Balaton, including Libás Beach and the Balaton Museum Beach. Don't miss the chance to visit the Marzipan Museum and Confectionery, which is a unique attraction that showcases intricate marzipan sculptures made by local artists. Visitors can learn about the history and techniques of marzipan-making and indulge in delicious sweets.

Lake Balaton has much to offer visitors, and these three destinations are a must-visit on your next vacation. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore historical sites, indulge in culinary delights, or indulge in outdoor activities, Lake Balaton has something for everyone.

What is Lake Balaton? Lake Balaton is a large body of water in Hungary and is a popular holiday destination for Hungarians.

Why is Lake Balaton called the "Hungarian Sea"? It is called the "Hungarian Sea" because of its vastness and popularity as a holiday destination among Hungarians.

What are some popular destinations to visit around Lake Balaton? Some popular destinations to visit around Lake Balaton include Siófok, Tihany, and Keszthely.

What can visitors do in Siófok? Visitors to Siófok can enjoy the beach, which stretches for several kilometers and offers facilities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports rentals, and beachside bars. It also has a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs lined up along the waterfront. Visitors can also visit the Galerius Wellness and Spa, which offers thermal baths, indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, steam rooms, and a wide range of wellness treatments.

What can visitors do in Tihany? Visitors to Tihany can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscapes. The peninsula is a designated nature reserve, featuring picturesque hills, meadows, and forests, perfect for nature lovers and hikers. Visitors can also explore the Benedictine Abbey, which is a significant historical site. It is a beautifully preserved architectural gem, known for its distinctive, red-tiled roof, including Romanesque and Gothic elements. Visitors can also stroll through the fragrant lavender fields during the blooming season, typically in June and July.

What can visitors do in Keszthely? Visitors to Keszthely can explore Festetics Palace, one of Hungary's largest Baroque-style castles. It features stunning architecture, lavish interiors, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Today, the palace serves as a museum where visitors can explore its various rooms, including the library, chapel, and exhibition halls, showcasing art, historical artifacts, and antique furniture. Visitors can also enjoy several beaches along the shores of Lake Balaton, offering excellent opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Visitors can also visit the Marzipan Museum and Confectionery, which showcases intricate marzipan sculptures made by local artists and indulge in delicious marzipan treats.