2-Day Itinerary for Lake Balaton, Hungary
Lake Balaton, known as the "Hungarian Sea," is the largest lake in Central Europe and one of Hungary’s most popular holiday destinations. It offers a mix of stunning landscapes, charming towns, historic landmarks, wine regions, and beaches. This 2-day itinerary covers the best experiences on both the northern and southern shores of the lake.
Day 1: Exploring the Northern Shore – History, Wine & Scenic Views
The northern shore is known for its vineyards, historic sites, and stunning landscapes. This day will focus on Tihany, Badacsony, and Balatonfüred.
8:00 AM – Breakfast in Balatonfüred
- Start the day with breakfast at Karolina Café, a cozy lakeside café known for homemade pastries and great coffee.
- Walk along the Tagore Promenade, a scenic lakefront path lined with trees and statues.
9:00 AM – Visit Tihany Peninsula & Benedictine Abbey
- Drive (or take a boat) to Tihany, one of the most beautiful areas around Lake Balaton.
- Visit the Tihany Benedictine Abbey, a 1,000-year-old monastery offering panoramic views of the lake.
- Explore the charming Old Town, famous for lavender products, handmade crafts, and local shops.
- If visiting in July, enjoy the Lavender Festival when the fields are in full bloom!
11:00 AM – Explore the Lavender House Visitor Center
- Learn about the history of lavender farming in Hungary.
- Try lavender-infused ice cream, tea, or souvenirs.
12:30 PM – Wine Tasting & Lunch in Badacsony
- Head to Badacsony, Hungary’s most famous wine region near the lake.
- Enjoy a wine tasting at Laposa Birtok Winery or Szent Donát Birtok.
- Try Olaszrizling (a famous Balaton white wine).
- Have lunch with a view of the vineyards at Borbarátok Wine Cellar or Kishableány.
2:30 PM – Hike or Take a Jeep Tour Up Badacsony Hill
- Hike (1 hour) or take a Jeep tour to the top of Badacsony Hill, where you’ll get the best panoramic views of Lake Balaton.
- Visit the Kisfaludy Lookout Tower for breathtaking scenery.
4:00 PM – Visit Szigliget Castle
- A medieval castle ruin with spectacular lake views.
- Experience Hungarian history, knight shows, and medieval-style exhibitions.
6:00 PM – Sunset at Szent György Hill
- End the day at Szent György Hill, a hidden gem known for vineyards and peaceful landscapes.
- Relax with a glass of Balaton wine as you watch the sunset over the lake.
8:00 PM – Dinner at a Lakeside Restaurant
- Recommended: Móló Bistro in Balatonfüred for fresh fish dishes or Hableány Badacsony for local specialties.
Day 2: Southern Shore – Beaches, Relaxation & Fun
The southern shore of Lake Balaton is known for sandy beaches, water sports, nightlife, and family-friendly activities. This day will focus on Siófok, Balatonboglár, and Zamárdi.
8:00 AM – Breakfast in Siófok
- Grab breakfast at Villa Gréta, a cozy bakery with Hungarian strudels and fresh coffee.
9:00 AM – Relax at Siófok’s Golden Beach
- Spend the morning swimming, sunbathing, or paddleboarding at Golden Beach (Aranypart), the most famous beach in Siófok.
- Rent a jet ski, kayak, or go parasailing for adventure.
11:30 AM – Visit Balatonboglár Lookout Sphere
- Drive to Balatonboglár, where you can climb the Balaton Lookout Sphere for a 360° panoramic view of the entire lake.
- Take amazing photos of the surrounding hills and vineyards.
12:30 PM – Lunch at a Balaton Fish Restaurant
- Try Halászlé (Hungarian Fisherman’s Soup) at Halas Karcsi or Mala Garden in Siófok.
2:00 PM – Zamárdi Adventure Park or Relaxing at the Spa
- Option 1: Adventure Park in Zamárdi – Great for zip-lining, go-karting, and obstacle courses.
- Option 2: Galerius Thermal Spa & Wellness in Siófok – Perfect for a relaxing thermal bath experience.
4:30 PM – Boat Cruise on Lake Balaton
- Take a boat cruise from Siófok to see the lake from a different perspective.
- Some boats offer sunset or dinner cruises with live music.
6:30 PM – Sunset Drinks at 360 Bar
- End your trip with cocktails at 360 Bar, a rooftop bar with a stunning view of Lake Balaton.
8:00 PM – Final Dinner in Siófok
- Recommended: Calvados Étterem for fine dining or Roxy Café & Restaurant for a cozy atmosphere.
How to Get Around Lake Balaton?
| Transport Mode | Details | Notes |
|-------------------|------------|---------|
| Car Rental | Best way to explore both shores | Parking is available in most areas |
| Train (MÁV) | Budapest to Lake Balaton (1.5-2 hours) | Balatonfüred & Siófok have main train stations |
| Ferry & Boat Tours | Cross between northern & southern shores | Ferries operate between Tihany & Szántód |
| Bicycle Rental | Great for exploring towns & beaches | Balaton Bike Trail is a 200 km cycling path |
Final Tips for Your Trip
Best Time to Visit: May – September (Summer for beaches, Spring & Autumn for wine tours)
Accommodation Recommendations:
- Luxury: Anna Grand Hotel (Balatonfüred)
- Mid-Range: Mala Garden (Siófok)
- Budget: Füred Camping (Balatonfüred)
Best Local Dishes to Try:
- Lángos (fried dough with toppings)
- Balaton Fish Dishes (grilled or Fisherman’s Soup)
- Somlói Galuska (Hungarian dessert)
This 2-day itinerary ensures you experience the best of Lake Balaton, from historical sites and vineyards to beaches and adventure activities!
