Lake Balaton

Overview

Covering about 592 square kilometres, Balaton is the largest lake in Central Europe. The southern shore is shallow and gently shelving, good for families, while the north is volcanic hill country producing wine around the abbey at Tihany. Towns such as Keszthely have palaces and a thermal lake, and the peninsula and wetlands at the western end suit cycling and birdwatching, with much of a lakeside cycle path now complete.

History

It became a resort for Hungarian nobles and townspeople in the 19th century and a mass holiday destination in the 20th, and remains the country's main summer getaway.

Highlights

• •Tihany abbey and the lake view
• •The shallow southern beaches
• •Keszthely palace and the thermal lake
• •The lakeside cycle route

Practical tips

• •Prices rise sharply in season — book early
• •The south shore is shallow but deepens further out; watch children

Practical information

Best time

May-September

Tickets

The shore is free; some beaches charge entry

Opening hours

Shore open all day

Local food

Gulyás, halászlé fish soup, Tokaji wine

Getting around

About 1.5 to 2.5 hours by train from Budapest to the lakeside stations.

Visa

A Schengen visa is required; apply about one month in advance.

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