Lake Balaton

Balatonfured featuring signage
Balatonfured featuring signage
Siofok featuring a square or plaza, a fountain and a city
Festetics Palace which includes château or palace and heritage architecture
Balatonfured which includes a statue or sculpture and a park

Discover historical buildings, sail over aquamarine waters and party on a beach at one of Hungary’s most popular holiday destinations.

Beautiful natural scenery, watersports and historic landmarks are some of the features of a vacation at Lake Balaton. This is central Europe's largest freshwater lake and the region encompasses hills, mountains and lakeside towns and resorts. Hike through the landscape, take a boat cruise across the water and tour a splendid 18th-century Baroque palace.

The lake stretches for approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) and there are many beaches along its shoreline where you can relax and swim. In addition to swimming there are lots of other water-based activities here, including sailing, surfing, waterskiing and wakeboarding. Stay active when you are back on dry land by cycling along lake-side paths that extend for more than 124 miles (200 kilometers) around the body of water.

Carve out some time to tour the lake’s towns and villages. Explore BalatonfüredOpens in a new window on the lake's northern shore. Visit museums housed in old villas, drink from a mineral spring well and walk along the Tagore Promenade. Go to TihanyOpens in a new window, located on the Tihany Peninsula for its medieval Benedictine abbey. Nearby is a geyser field.

Journey to KeszthelyOpens in a new window on the western shore to see the majestic FesteticsOpens in a new window Palace, an 18th-century masterpiece built for a noble family. Enjoy the party atmosphere at SiófokOpens in a new window, the biggest town on the lake. Refresh your body in nearby Heviz, a town famed for its spas.

Take advantage of the lake’s scenic backdrop with some outdoor adventures. Hike through the Balaton Upland National Park, see the large basalt columns of the Káli Basin and try bird watching in the Kis Balaton wetlands area. Among the species you might see are white-tailed eagles and ospreys. In winter, go ice skating, ice sailing and ice windsurfing when the lake freezes over.

Reach Lake Balaton by driving from Budapest, a journey that can take up to 2 hours, depending on which part of the lake you are visiting. There are also train services from the Hungarian capital to several historical and picturesque destinations around the lake.

Popular places to visit

Balatonlelle Amusement Park

Enjoy a fun-filled day at Balatonlelle Amusement Park as part of your trip to Balatonlelle. Make some time to visit the monuments while you're in the area.

Balatonlelle Amusement Park

Bujdosó Winery

You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Bujdosó Winery during your travels to Balatonlelle. Make some time to visit the monuments while you're in the area.

Bujdosó Winery

Rádpuszta medieval church ruin

Learn about the local history of Balatonlelle when you take a trip to Rádpuszta medieval church ruin. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the area's volcano viewpoints.

Rádpuszta medieval church ruin

Ikon Borászat

You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Ikon Borászat during your travels to Látrány.

Ikon Borászat

Garamvári Szőlőbirtok

You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Garamvári Szőlőbirtok during your travels to Balatonlelle. Make some time to visit the monuments while you're in the area.

Garamvári Szőlőbirtok

Gömbkilátó

Learn about the local history of Balatonboglar with a stop at Gömbkilátó. Wander the parks and lakeside while you're in the area.

Gömbkilátó

Top Lake Balaton Hotel Deals

Kistücsök Food & Room

Kistücsök Food & Room

4 out of 5
Bajcsy-Zsilinszky utca 25. Balatonszemes
Kistücsök Food & Room
Balchill House With Sauna And Jacuzzi

Balchill House With Sauna And Jacuzzi

4 out of 5
Balatonszepezd Veszprém County
Balchill House With Sauna And Jacuzzi
Fülöp Panzió

Fülöp Panzió

2 out of 5
Revfulop Veszprém County
Fülöp Panzió
See all 1,483 properties in Lake Balaton
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lake Balaton

At Lake Balaton, visitors can indulge in a variety of activities including soothing spa treatments and exhilarating sailing experiences. Enjoy scenic boat tours or trips around the lake, where you can soak in stunning views. Don't miss the chance to explore the area with a detailed map of local attractions, and take a refreshing dip in the lake's inviting waters for a truly memorable holiday experience.

Shopping

For unique gifts, visit Katona Borház, located 11.3km from Lake Balaton. If you're up for a drive, head to Sio Plaza, 25.7km away, where you can enjoy a vibrant shopping experience with a mix of entertainment, dining, and family-friendly activities.

Recreation

Experience the serene beauty of the Royal Balaton Golf & Yacht Club, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes. Visit the Tamasi Cultural Centre of Tapolca for captivating performances, or cheer on your favourite team at Veszprem Arena, a hub of thrilling sports events.

Adventure

At Nordica Síaréna, 45.1km from Lake Balaton, enjoy thrilling skiing amidst a vibrant sports atmosphere. Experience family fun on the Siófok Ferris Wheel, located 25.7km away, offering stunning views. Additionally, 35.4km from the lake, Balatonibob Leisure Park promises excitement with its exhilarating rides.

Nightlife

Lake Balaton offers vibrant nightlife in towns like Siófok and Balatonfüred. Experience lively bars and clubs along the waterfront, with live music and dance floors. Enjoy cocktails at trendy beach bars or relax in charming wine cellars, embracing the local flavours and festive atmosphere by the lake.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Lake Balaton

Lake Balaton in Hungary is a captivating destination offering a blend of cultural and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore monasteries, monuments, and beautiful beaches while enjoying various activities. The region features numerous tourist attractions, campsites, and insights into the lake's levels. With its rich offerings, Lake Balaton caters to those seeking both relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal spot for a memorable getaway.

  • Tihany Abbey: Nestled 14.5km from Lake Balaton, Tihany Abbey is a stunning Benedictine monastery, known for its breathtaking views of the lake and rich cultural heritage. The abbey’s baroque architecture and historical significance make it a serene retreat, perfect for those seeking peace and spiritual enrichment.
  • Platán Strand: Located 8.0km from the lake, Platán Strand offers a vibrant beach atmosphere ideal for relaxation and recreation. With its sandy shores and clear waters, it’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying a variety of water sports, making it a fantastic spot for a fun-filled day.
  • Rádpuszta medieval church ruin: Just 6.4km from Lake Balaton, the Rádpuszta medieval church ruin presents a glimpse into Hungary's past. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, this historical site evokes a sense of nostalgia, inviting visitors to explore its ancient architecture and tranquil surroundings.

Tips to save on your trip to Lake Balaton

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Lake Balaton.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically February, May and November) for more affordable package holidays to Lake Balaton.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.