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Lake Balaton

Hungary's favorite summertime retreat!

Lake Balaton is Central Europe's largest lake, offering 120 miles of shoreline, bright waters, and a host of activities.

Video about Lake Balaton

Primarily a summer destination, Balaton is an easy one hour drive from Budapest. With such a vast shoreline, Balaton offers something for everyone with natural reserves and wetlands, a wine region, sailing, thermal baths, musical performances, a variety of sport activities and of course its famous shallow, warm waters to relax in. We recommend staying in Balatonfüred, a charming Baroque town that, with its promenades and tree-lined avenues, is the quieter counterpart to the brash party capital of Siofok across the water.

Just down the coast from Balatonfüred, the Tihany Peninsula nearly bisects the lake. Centered around an 11th century abbey that was rebuilt in the Baroque style in the 18th century, Tinhany offers some of the best views of the lake, and is a popular destination for the wealthy, who have made it into Hungary's richest village. From the Abbey, be sure to take advantage of Tinhany's famous echo. For travelers in Hungary looking for a few days of fun and sun, or even just a few quiet days by the water, this is the place to be.

Popular Tour Itineraries Featuring Lake Balaton

Spend some time in Lake Balaton on a tour that takes in other cities in Hungary and neighboring countries. Our vacation packages including Lake Balaton and other destinations throughout Hungary and Europe hassle-free. We take care of getting you from place to place, accommodation, excursions and activities.

Hungary, at the Heart of Europe Custom Itinerary

Hungary, at the Heart of Europe

Budapest, Lake Balaton, Pecs, Eger, Budapest

from$3,125 pp^*

* Starting price is per person, based on double occupancy in 3 star accommodation, in the most affordable month an itinerary is offered. Airfare to Europe is not included.

Click on your choice of itinerary, select number of travelers in your party, month of travel, and desired star level of accommodation to get an approximate price. Submit the enquiry form with any additional details and we can start planning your customized trip.

What we love about Lake Balaton

Operations Training Specialist

As Balaton occupies about 99% of my heart, it's hard to give a specific reason why I love it. Honestly, I don't think there was a year ever since I was born when I didn't go to the lake at least for a couple of days in the summer. To me, Lake Balaton means peace, endless nights at the beach, family, lángos, teenage love - this list could go on forever. I definitely see it as my second, if not first, home.

Operations Executive

Hot summer days, ice cream, fried fish, friends and family you love, jumping into the lake to cool down, enjoying the sun, relaxing. Summertime at Lake Balaton is one of the sweetest memories that everybody treasures all year round, and we invite you to also experience this when visiting Hungary. With our guidance, you will have an amazing time!

Where to stay in Lake Balaton

Stylish Boutique Hotel in Lake Balaton

Stylish Boutique Hotel

Perfect choice for guests who would like to enjoy a bit more privacy in a beautiful setting quite close to the lake.

Modern Heritage Hotel in Lake Balaton

Modern Heritage Hotel

One of the oldest hotels in Balatonfüred, this one has truly a lot to share with visitors. The location is perfect and the staff very welcoming.

Things to do in Lake Balaton

For those in Budapest looking to escape the summer heat, Lake Balaton is an ideal place to cool down. The lake and its surroundings offer a variety of outdoor activities including swimming, canoeing and sailing. The most interesting part of the lake from a sightseeing and historical perspective is the Tihany peninsula and we can arrange a private guided tour there. If the weather is cooperating you do not want to miss taking a dip in the lake's blue waters.

Private Sunset Sailing Excursion

Private Sunset Sailing Excursion

Tihany Peninsula Private Day Trip from Balatonfured

Tihany Peninsula Private Day Trip from Balatonfured

Glowing Reviews from Our Guests

5.0 / 5

Average of our Guest's Ratings of our trip packages including Lake Balaton, based on 1 review

Review by John & Craig

John & Craig

Florida

Excellent, personable service tailored to your needs.

Year : 2023
Visited : Hungary
Itinerary : Budapest, Lake Balaton, Budapest
Rating :

5 / 5

Latest articles about Lake Balaton
from the JayWay Travel Blog

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Read more articles about Lake Balaton on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Lake Balaton

How long should I stay at Lake Balaton?

We recommend spending two days at Lake Balaton, to have time to enjoy the beach, historic places, and even the Tihany Peninsula (with some potential wine tasting).

What are Lake Balaton's best beaches?

One of the largest beaches on Lake Balaton's north coast, Kisfaludy is relatively cheap, and offers "adventure pools" with waterslides. The family-friendly Eszterházy beach, by the Tagore Promenade, has a beautiful panorama of the Tihany Peninsula, and some "adventure pools" itself.

What are Lake Balaton's must-see sights?

Balatonfüred is one of Lake Balaton's most beautiful towns, thanks in part to its baroque buildings and 19th century mansions. A relaxing walk to its main square and the Tagore Promenade is a good way to recharge the soul. Swim in Lake Balaton, and sail on its waters. We also recommend making a day trip to the Tihany Peninsula, which nearly cuts the lake in half, either on your own, or with a private guide we can provide.

How can I get local currency?

Balatonfüred:
There is only one exchange place in Balatonfüred. It is located at Tesco, 55 Széchenyi Street. It is open every day from 9 am - 9 pm.
ATMs in Balatonfüred (there are more):
2 Gyógy tér (OTP Bank)
55 Széchenyi Street (Erste Bank)

We recommend taking out money at a bank ATM, such as OTP Bank's machine at 2 Gyógy tér. By the Tesco at 55 Széchenyi Street, you can use Erste Bank's ATM, or exchange money from 9 AM to 9 PM.

What are typical prices at Lake Balaton?

A simple lunch with drink costs around $6, and a three-course dinner would put you back around $25. Beach entrance fees are around $3-5.