Things to do in Balaton Region
Discover the best attractions and experiences Balaton Region has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the region's storied past through castles, abbeys and cathedrals that dot the lake's shores.
Tihany Abbey
A Benedictine monastery on the Tihany Peninsula with historic architecture and sweeping lake views.
Festetics Palace (Keszthely)
An elegant 18th-century palace with opulent interiors and a grand park.
Szigliget Castle
A hilltop fortress ruin offering panoramic Balaton vistas and medieval charm.
Veszprém Cathedral (St. Michael's)
A prominent Gothic–Romanesque cathedral forming part of Veszprém's historic skyline.
Museums
Delve into local history, culture and the lake’s natural heritage at these regional museums.
Keszthely History Museum
A regional museum in Keszthely detailing the Balaton area’s people and story.
Balaton Museum (Balatoni Múzeum)
Exhibits showcasing the culture, nature and history of the Lake Balaton region.
Zala County Museum (Zala Megyei Múzeum)
A county museum in Zalaegerszeg with historical and ethnographic collections.
Religious Monuments
Spiritual landmarks add a different dimension to the lake's scenery and history.
Tihany Abbey
Besides its historic role, the abbey complex is a serene religious site on the peninsula.
Veszprém Basilica (St. Michael's)
A major devotional site with impressive architecture near Castle Hill.
National & Theme Parks
The Balaton region sits within protected landscapes and offers scenic outdoor escapes.
Balaton Uplands National Park
A protected area of rolling hills, vineyards and scenic hiking trails around the lake.
Káli Basin Landscape Protection Area
A dramatic limestone valley perfect for scenic hikes and viewpoints.
Badacsony Wine Region (theme)
Wine country with volcanic soils and lake-backed vineyard scenery.
Neighborhoods
Discover towns and districts that give each Balaton village its own character.
Balatonfüred Old Town
A charming lakeside town with a lively promenade and historic harbor.
Keszthely Historic Center
A classic Balaton town with cobblestone lanes and the Festetics complex nearby.
Siófok Lakeside Quarter
A bustling stretch along the water known for shops, cafes and activity.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the lake and landscapes without breaking the budget.
Stroll the Balaton shoreline promenade
Take a leisurely walk along the water and watch the sunset.
Hike in the Balaton Uplands
Follow marked trails with scenic views over the lake.
Relax on public beaches
Enjoy sun, sand and lake winds at freely accessible shores.
Sunset viewpoints on the Tihany Peninsula
Catch golden-hour vistas over Balaton from elevated spots.
Gastronomy
Taste regional flavors and the famed Balaton wines with locally rooted dishes.
Badacsony wine tasting
Sample distinctive volcanic wines from the Badacsony region.
Lángos by the lake
Enjoy the iconic fried dough snack from lakeside stalls.
Local freshwater fish dishes
Try simple, fresh Balaton fish preparations in lakeside towns.
Nightlife
Lakeside evenings range from relaxed bars to seasonal party spots.
Siófok Petőfi promenade nightlife
A lively string of bars and music along the lakefront.
Zamárdi beach bars
Beachfront venues with summer DJs and sunset views.
Balatonfüred harbor area evenings
Casual pubs and open-air gatherings by the water.
Entertainment
Cultural happenings and seasonal events add color to lake life.
Balaton Sound festival (Zamárdi)
A major summer music festival drawing crowds to the lake.
Festetics Palace concerts (Keszthely)
Classical and contemporary performances in a grand setting.
Open-air theatre and cinema by the lake
Seasonal performances and films in lakeside venues.
Sports
Active options on and around the water keep you moving.
Cycling the Balaton Körút (round-the-lake route)
Ride or hike Hungary's famous lakeside circuit.
Boat trips on Lake Balaton
Relaxed or sporty boat excursions with views across the water.
Windsurfing and sailing
Water sports opportunities along various lakefront towns.
Hiking in Balaton Uplands
Rocky ridges and forest trails with panoramic lake scenes.
Off the Track
Go beyond the obvious with lesser-known gems and unique experiences.
Tapolca Limestone Cave
Underground river boat tour and limestone caverns near Balaton.
Kayaking in hidden coves around the northern shore
Discover secluded spots only accessible by water.
Wine-tasting in small Badacsony cellars
Intimate tastings in family-run vineyards with lake views.