Discover Hungary’s Jewel: The Enchanting Lake Balaton

Lake Balaton, the largest lake in Central Europe, is a source of pride and a treasure for Hungary. With its unique beauty and diverse range of activities, Lake Balaton is an attractive destination for tourists every year. If you haven’t been here yet, now is the time to discover this enchanting lake and its surroundings.

Must-See Attractions at Lake Balaton

• Siófok
  Siófok is located on the southern shore of Lake Balaton, along the Sió Canal, which divides the town in two. Siófok is the lake’s main resort town, where sunny beaches, vibrant nightlife, and numerous events guarantee great entertainment.
• Tihany
  One of the most distinctive settlements on Lake Balaton is Tihany, a peninsula village rising above the water on a peninsula that extends into the lake from the northern shore. Visit the Benedictine Abbey, enjoy the wonderful views of the lake, and stroll along the charming streets by the harbor.
• Balatonfüred
  Balatonfüred is famous for its healing springs and the pleasant atmosphere of its promenades. The plane-tree-lined Tagore Promenade is located here, with cafés, restaurants, and boutiques welcoming visitors. Don’t miss Blaha Lujza Street, either, where the actress’s former villa stands!
• Badacsony 
  If you’re interested in wine and scenery, Badacsony is the place for you. Badacsony Hill is an excellent spot for wine tastings, and the views of the lake and its surroundings from the top are breathtaking.
• Keszthely
  Keszthely lies on the western shore of Lake Balaton, where the Zala River flows into the lake. Visit Festetics Palace, one of the most beautiful palaces on Lake Balaton, and explore the heart of the town.

Activities and Entertainment

• Water Sports:
  Lake Balaton is an excellent place for water sports enthusiasts. You can try sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, or even water skiing.
• Cycling:
  The cycling route around Lake Balaton is an exciting challenge for every cyclist. Explore the area around the lake on two wheels in the fresh air!
• Wellness and Spa:
  There are numerous wellness hotels around Lake Balaton, where you can unwind with baths, massages, and other pampering services.
• Cultural Experiences:
  Don’t miss the Balaton Summer events, where concerts, festivals, and cultural programs await visitors.

Parking Around Lake Balaton

When traveling along the shores of Lake Balaton, parking may be an important consideration. Almost every settlement around the lake has well-developed parking facilities for visitors. In towns and tourist centers such as Siófok, Balatonfüred, and Keszthely, central parking lots are easy to reach and offer the option of leaving your vehicle for longer periods. Paid parking areas are often found near beaches and major attractions, where you can spend the day by the lake and easily visit nearby sights. It’s worth checking parking fees and any restrictions in advance so you can enjoy everything Lake Balaton has to offer without a hitch.

You can find paid on-street parking in the following settlements around Lake Balaton:

• Badacsony
• Balatonboglár
• Balatonfenyves
• Balatonföldvár
• Balatonfüred
• Fonyód
• Keszthely
• Siófok
• Tihany
• Zamárdi

In public areas, parking costs roughly 200 to 900 HUF per hour in summer; outside the summer season, it is free in many places.

Last updated: 27. 10. 2026.