Lake Balaton Tours and Activities

Balatonfured showing signage
Siofok featuring a fountain, a square or plaza and a city
Festetics Palace which includes a castle and heritage architecture
Balatonfured showing a statue or sculpture and a park
Tihany showing flowers
Discover historical buildings, sail over aquamarine waters and party on a beach at one of Hungary’s most popular vacation 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 & Accommodation Deals

Lake Balaton, Hungary's hidden gem, offers a diverse landscape that will captivate any traveler. With its picturesque shores and crystal-clear waters, it is the perfect destination for a relaxing holiday. Whether you want to soak up the sun on the lake-side terrace or explore the charming small towns, Lake Balaton has it all. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the historic Tihany Abbey, located just a few kilometers away. For a unique experience, indulge in a rejuvenating bath at one of the renowned spas. With its hilly surroundings, forests, and ancient ruins, Lake Balaton is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. And if adventure is what you seek, set sail on a thrilling sailing excursion.

For a luxury themed holiday, Lake Balaton in Hungary offers a variety of exciting areas and neighborhoods to explore. From the tranquil lake to indulgent spas, charming churches, and cathedrals, there is something for everyone. History enthusiasts can visit castles and ruins, while nature lovers can explore the surrounding forests and hilly landscapes. Sailing on the lake is also a popular activity. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Lake Balaton provides the perfect backdrop for a luxurious holiday in Hungary.

  • Siófok: Siófok is a lively city known for its rich history and stunning natural beauty. Explore the impressive cathedral, charming churches, and the fascinating castle that showcase its historical significance. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the various museums and monuments scattered throughout the city. Siófok's proximity to Lake Balaton offers a unique experience of enjoying the tranquil lake and surrounding nature. Take a leisurely stroll through the forests or simply relax by the lake. The small-town charm of Siófok combined with its cultural and natural attractions make it an ideal destination for a luxury holiday.
  • Balatonfured: Balatonfured is a picturesque city that exudes charm and elegance. Its small-town atmosphere is complemented by the scenic lake and beautiful churches. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history by visiting the cathedral and exploring the various monuments. Balatonfured is also known for its vibrant festivals, offering a unique cultural experience. The city's proximity to Lake Balaton allows for activities such as sailing and swimming, while the surrounding forests provide opportunities for nature enthusiasts. With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Balatonfured is a perfect destination for a luxurious holiday.
  • Hévíz: Hévíz is a tranquil city renowned for its healing properties and natural beauty. The city is famous for its magnificent monuments and relaxing spas, offering a rejuvenating experience. Explore the wineries and indulge in wine tasting, or immerse yourself in the stunning natural parks that surround Hévíz. The city's main attraction is the Hévíz Lake, known for its thermal waters and therapeutic benefits. Enjoy swimming in the lake and admiring the vibrant flowers that adorn its surroundings. Hévíz offers a unique combination of relaxation, nature, and recreation, making it an idyllic destination for a luxury holiday.

Experience a luxurious holiday at Lake Balaton, Hungary's largest lake. Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere as you explore charming small towns, visit beautiful churches and cathedrals, and marvel at historic castles and ruins. Indulge in the ultimate relaxation at the lake's renowned spa resorts, where you can pamper yourself with rejuvenating treatments and soak in thermal baths. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are endless opportunities to sail on the tranquil lake or hike through the surrounding forests and hilly landscapes. Whether you're seeking a serene getaway or thrilling adventures, Lake Balaton offers a perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty.

  • Tihany Abbey: Immerse yourself in the rich history of Tihany Abbey, a monastery featuring stunning churches, a majestic cathedral, and a fascinating castle. Explore the charming small town and its picturesque views of Lake Balaton. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the museums and learn about the abbey's ruins and monuments. Take a peaceful walk through the surrounding forests and soak in the tranquility of this historical site. Located just 15.0km away from Lake Balaton, Tihany Abbey offers a unique cultural experience.
  • Kinizsi Castle: Experience romance and culture at Kinizsi Castle, a captivating fortress situated near Lake Balaton. Marvel at the castle's reflection in the lake as you stroll through the charming small town. Explore the museums and churches within the castle's walls, or venture into the nearby forests for a peaceful hike. Admire the ruins and enjoy the hilly landscape surrounding the castle. With opportunities for fishing and camping, Kinizsi Castle is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a cultural adventure. Located only 17.4km away from Lake Balaton, it's a must-visit attraction.
  • Tagore Sétány: Discover the beauty of Tagore Sétány, a landmark that offers a blend of history and natural splendor. Admire the churches and cathedral that dot the landscape, and take in the breathtaking views of Lake Balaton. Explore the small town and its medieval castle, and learn about the area's rich history through the monuments and museums. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush forests and uncover hidden ruins along the way. Located just 18.3km away from Lake Balaton, Tagore Sétány is a must-see attraction for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Looking to avoid the rainy, cloudy, or uncomfortably hot or cold months? Our table below will help you find the perfect time for your holiday in Hungary and your visit to Lake Balaton. Here you will find a year-round average temperature of 11.8°C, reaching a peak of 22.8°C in July, its warmest month, and dropping to an average low of -0.5°C in January, the coolest month. The annual rainfall averages 62.5mm, with May experiencing the heaviest showers, while January is the driest month.

Monthcalendar iconTemperature (Celcius)temperature iconRainfallrain iconCloud coveragecloud icon
January-0.5No Rain (Dry)Mostly Cloudy
February1.5No Rain (Dry)Mostly Cloudy
March6.8No Rain (Dry)Mostly Sunny
April11.8No Rain (Dry)Mostly Sunny
May16.1Light RainMostly Sunny
June20.3Light RainMostly Sunny
July22.8Light RainMostly Sunny
August22.7Light RainSunny
September18.1Light RainMostly Sunny
October12.6Light RainMostly Sunny
November6.9Light RainMostly Sunny
December2.7Light RainMostly Sunny
  • Picturesque Shores: Lake Balaton's picturesque shores and crystal-clear waters make it the ideal destination for a relaxing holiday.
  • Tihany Abbey: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the historic Tihany Abbey, located just a few kilometers away from the lake.
  • Renowned Spas: Indulge in a rejuvenating bath at one of Lake Balaton's renowned spas, where you can pamper yourself with rejuvenating treatments and soak in thermal baths.
  • Nature Paradise: With its hilly surroundings, forests, and ancient ruins, Lake Balaton is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
  • Thrilling Sailing Excursions: Set sail on a thrilling sailing excursion and enjoy the adventure on the tranquil lake.
  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia to save money on flights and accommodations.
  • Check the Expedia website for special deals and discounts during the off-peak season from October to December.
  • Consider booking your trip to Lake Balaton during the peak season from June to August for the best weather and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Use the search filters on Expedia to find accommodations that fit your budget and preferences.
  • Sign up for Expedia's rewards program to earn points and save money on future bookings.
  • Don't forget to explore the beautiful towns and attractions around Lake Balaton, such as Tihany and Balatonfüred.