Keszthely: sights and parking

Located on the western shore of Lake Balaton, Keszthely is one of the oldest and most beautiful towns around the “Hungarian Sea.” With its rich historical heritage, cultural attractions, and natural beauty, it is an excellent destination for those who wish to immerse themselves in Hungarian history and enjoy the recreational opportunities offered by the Balaton. Here are some highlights worth visiting while in Keszthely:

1. Festetics Palace

The most famous attraction in Keszthely is the baroque-style Festetics Palace, located in the heart of the town. Built in the 18th century, the palace was once the residence of the noble Festetics family and now operates as a museum. Inside, you can visit the Helikon Library, period-furnished rooms, as well as exhibitions on carriages and hunting. The palace park is a wonderful place for a relaxing stroll.

2. Balaton Museum

The Balaton Museum offers insight into the history, wildlife, and ethnography of Lake Balaton and its surroundings. Its interactive exhibitions are both educational and entertaining, making it a highly recommended program for families.

3. Keszthely City Beach

During the summer months, Keszthely City Beach is one of the most popular destinations. Clean water, a sandy shoreline, water slides, rentable sunbeds, and pedal boats await visitors. Restaurants and cafés can also be found nearby.

4. Amazon House Visitor Center

This recently renovated historic building hosts exhibitions and museum programs. Visitors can learn about the history of Keszthely and the Festetics family.

5. Pethő House and Main Square

The downtown area of Keszthely is perfect for a pleasant walk. The baroque-style Main Square, with its cafés, restaurants, and the historic Pethő House, is an ideal place to relax. In the surrounding streets, you’ll find many small shops and souvenir stores.

6. Proximity to Lake Hévíz

Although not located directly in Keszthely, the famous Lake Hévíz — the world’s largest natural thermal lake — lies just a few kilometers away. It’s a perfect add-on to your trip if you’re seeking rest and wellness experiences.

7. Georgikon Agricultural History Exhibition

Hungary’s first higher education institution for agriculture, the Georgikon, was established in Keszthely. The exhibition center provides insights into the history of agriculture and the everyday life of rural communities.

Parking in Keszthely

Several parking zones are available in and around downtown Keszthely, all of which are paid zones from 08:00 to 16:00. Parking fees vary depending on the zone and the type of vehicle. The most expensive area is Zone 8301, where the hourly rate is 320 HUF for cars, vans, and small trucks, and 960 HUF for trucks and buses. The maximum parking time here is 3 hours. In Zone 8302, the rate is a more affordable 240 HUF per hour for cars and light commercial vehicles, with a 4-hour parking limit. Outer zones (such as 8303, 8304, 8308, and 8309) offer even lower rates — for instance, Zones 8303 and 8309 allow car parking at 160 HUF per hour with no time limit. Before parking, it’s advisable to check the zone number, as it determines the fee and the maximum allowed parking duration.