Snowdrop Season in Alcsút 

It’s been a long time since we saw any kind of green – but luckily not for any longer, as a true floral fairytale awaits in Alcsút, where thousands of snowdrops bloom together to greet spring. Since the tiny snow-white flowers bloom at unpredictable times, be sure to follow the arboretum’s Facebook page so you don’t miss this spectacular sight. Important note: the last entry is allowed one hour before closing. 

8087, Alcsútdoboz, Kastélykert út 2. | Website

Taste Balaton 

Taste Balaton takes place between March 6 and 15 at several spots around Lake Balaton, celebrating gastronomy, culture, and the unique magic of the area. The 10-day-long festival welcomes the region’s top restaurants, wineries, and cultural partners, who will offer exclusive menus, cooking workshops, dinner concerts, exhibitions, and more. With over 100 unique events, you can taste, learn, and explore Balaton like never before. Let’s dive into this full-bodied spring festival! 

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Taste of Transylvania 

This year, Szentendre hosts the largest Transylvanian-themed gastronomic festival, Taste of Transylvania. Between March 27 and 29, try the flavors of Romania at the Skanzen, where hobby chefs and professional cooks work together to show what they can create from the same ingredients. The weekend-long program is enriched by an Easter market, book launches, film screenings and concerts. Fun – and, of course, a well-filled stomach – is guaranteed! 

2000 Szentendre, Sztaravodai út 75. | Website

If you’d stay in the city:

Seasonal City Guide: Where to Fall in Love This February

February gives Budapest some breathing room. Fewer crowds, colder air, better excuses to stay out late or duck inside somewhere warm. This guide collects romantic spots for a properly eventful February in the city.

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Egy csipet nádas, Siófok

If you’re on the lookout for one of the most peaceful and tranquil spots on the southern shore for your culinary adventures, look no further! At Egy csipet nádas (A Pinch of Reeds) in Siófok, you can enjoy excellent drinks and delicious dishes accompanied by the soothing sounds of birdsong. On themed weekends, you can even dive into flavours from around the world.

8611 Siófok, Töreki u. 40. | Website

Tarow Bistro, Balatonvilágos

At the Club Aliga marina in Balatonvilágos, you can indulge in the finest dishes from around the globe. Tarow Bistro brings the relaxed vibe of leisurely weekend brunches to the shores of Lake Balaton, featuring Middle Eastern dishes, Mediterranean flavours, and the best of Italian cuisine.

8171 Balatonvilágos, Aligai út 1. | Facebook

Tiki Beach Bistro, Zamárdi

Tiki Beach Bistro has kicked off its new season in Zamárdi, complete with a tropical atmosphere. At Tiki, you’ll always find something fresh, new, and exciting in their excellent dishes, making you want to return again and again.

8621 Zamárdi, Margó Ede stny. | Facebook

Fricska Balaton, Balatonföldvár

The new venue of the well-known Fricska in Veszprém has opened its doors on the promenade in Balatonföldvár. This year-round restaurant offers impeccable dishes, tapas, Serbian cevapi, juicy hamburgers, and BBQ delights, all while you enjoy the last rays of the setting sun.

8623 Balatonföldvár, Rákóczi Ferenc u. 9. | Facebook

Il Limone, Siófok

Il Limone brings the best of Italian flavours to Siófok, where you can experience la dolce vita with dishes made from carefully selected ingredients. Their menu includes homemade pasta, creamy risottos, pizzas, and refreshing cocktails.

8600 Siófok, Petőfi stny. 3. | Facebook

Kékajtó Winery and Vineyard, Kőröshegy

At Kékajtó (Blue Door) Winery and Vineyard in Kőröshegy, you’ll find not only a deep passion and respect for wine in every bottle but also stunning panoramic views. This family-run winery offers the finest thirst-quenchers and delicious wine pairings.

8617 Kőröshegy, Árnyas köz | Facebook

Kedvesem Bistro, Balatonlelle

Many people have fond memories of the delicious, lovingly served dishes at Kedvesem Bistro in Balatonlelle. Located on Móló Promenade, the restaurant offers stunning views of Lake Balaton year-round, featuring the best of Hungarian cuisine as well as heavenly international dishes.

8636 Balatonlelle, Móló sétány | Facebook

Hubertus Hof Restaurant, Balatonfenyves

One of the southern Balaton region’s hidden gems is the restaurant at Hubertus Hof Landhotel in Balatonfenyves. Famous for its Angus beef specialties, the restaurant offers a diverse menu, from Angus beef soup to venison-stuffed ravioli.

8646 Balatonfenyves, Nimród u. 4. | Website

Mistral Bistro, Balatonboglár

Once you visit Mistral Bistro in Balatonboglár, you’ll want to keep coming back. Their menu features light summer dishes, homemade burgers, and refreshing desserts. The warm and friendly service is the cherry on top.

8630 Balatonboglár, Kodály Zoltán u. 24. | Facebook

Check out the best spots on the Northern Shore as well:

Top Culinary Gems on the Northern Shore of Lake Balaton

We highlight the must-visit spots for food lovers exploring Hungary's stunning lakeside region.

Funzine

Mandilla, Köveskál

At the Mandilla restaurant, hailed as Köveskál’s hidden gem, you’ll step into a lively Tuscan vibe while savouring exquisite dishes. Picture yourself reclining on the terrace, indulging in Mediterranean delights crafted from fresh, top-notch ingredients, all paired with exceptional wines that’ll leave even the most discerning foodies spellbound.

8274 Köveskál, Városkút u. 2. | Website

Vitéz Kürtős, Tihany

For a long time, many people encouraged the creators of Vitéz Kürtős to bring the sweet experience of chimney cakes to the shores of Lake Balaton. After a lengthy search, they found the perfect spot—one boasting the most breathtaking view of Lake Balaton.

When you think of the most idyllic spot, perhaps the area around Tihany’s Echo Hill and Lookout, along the Abbey Promenade, comes to mind first. It’s here that the Vitéz Kürtős bakery has been delighting guests for four years now. And let’s all agree, there’s nothing quite like savouring your favourite chimney cake while soaking in the view, with your legs dangling over the retaining wall along the Pisky Promenade.

And fear not, in Tihany, you needn’t miss out on the themed days either! Every month, one weekend is dedicated to chimney cakes made from gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free ingredients. During these themed weekends, you can also sample the vegan offerings. Furthermore, on certain weekends, you’ll have the chance to try the most extraordinary flavours, like the Chimney Fondue Variations and the filled chimney cake, known as the Kürtősbon.

8237 Tihany, Halász-köz 9. | Weboldal

Borbarátok, Badacsonytomaj

The Borbarátok’s intergenerational tale began on the ancient estate in Badacsony, nurtured by their great-grandfather. Over nearly 100 years, the family’s hospitality has remained unchanged: delightful dishes that please both the eye and the taste buds, excellent wines, and memorable moments await guests here.

8258 Badacsonytomaj, Római út 88. | Website

Rózy, Tapolca

Spring 2024 saw the grand opening of Rózy, nestled along the Tapolcai Creek. This cozy café, right in the heart of the city on the Malom-tó promenade, beckons weary wanderers to unwind by the water. Whether you’re craving delectable pastries or simply seeking refuge after a leisurely stroll, Rózy has you covered.

8300 Tapolca, Martinovics Ignác u. 3. | Facebook

Taberna Infinito, Kisapáti

The Taberna Infinito restaurant, nestled on the Szent György Hill in Kisapáti, invites guests with a dolce vita vibe and a mesmerizing panoramic terrace. Inspired by Mediterranean flavours, their menu features cold and hot tapas, a giant Balkan burger, and refreshing Balaton wines to satisfy both hunger and thirst.

8284 Kisapáti, Kisapátihegy | Website

Skizo Borház – Nefelejcs, Badacsonytördemic

At the Skizo Winery in Badacsonytördemic, you’ll find the perfect pairing of delicious food and the exceptional wines of Balázs Sike. Whether you choose to relax on the charming, sun-drenched terrace or settle inside the winery, which now resides in the former Nefelejcs restaurant, a delightful culinary experience is assured!

8263 Badacsonytördemic, Szent István u. 48. | Website

Bakterház, Balatonszepezd

The once-deserted Balatonszepezd train station has recently undergone a revival. Inside its walls now resides the Bakterház, where you can leisurely sip your morning coffee, indulge in a hearty brunch, and taste the finest delicacies from local producers of the Balaton Uplands.

8252 Balatonszepezd, Vasútállomás, Hrsz: 489/3. | Facebook

Casa Christa, Balatonszőlős

At Casa Christa in Balatonszőlős, you’ll find the ultimate relaxation experience during your visit to Lake Balaton. As the country’s pioneering agritourism destination, Casa Christa caters to every whim, whether you seek solitude, retreat, immersion in nature, yoga, or a lively game of pétanque with family and friends.

The estate serves as an ideal venue for corporate events and weddings, spanning 5 hectares and offering unforgettable experiences. From the vine-covered pavilion, aged 60 years, to the fruit orchard ripe for tasting and harvesting, and up to the VIP fire pits, there’s something for everyone.

In the Bib Gourmand-awarded restaurant, indulge in Hungarian and French-inspired cuisine amidst a splendid setting, with a menu that evolves with the seasons. Complement your meal with a stellar wine selection featuring notable picks from the local Balaton region, Hungarian wine regions, and handpicked selections from international vineyards.

The estate welcomes those who wish to stroll among two thousand almond trees with their furry companions, culminating in a breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Balaton from the newly opened long drink bar atop the estate.

8233 Balatonszőlős, Izabella út | Reserve a table: +36 70/787-7933 | Weboldal

Balaton Restaurant, Balatonfüred

The Balaton Restaurant, named after Hungary’s largest lake, invites guests seeking culinary delights. Its terrace overlooks Lake Balaton and Tagore Promenade, providing a break from the daily grind. The drink menu features the region’s finest wines, while the excellent dishes blend traditional flavours with modern kitchen trends. Here, you can taste Balaton favourites like catfish soup, cold foie gras or steak tartare with toast, made from locally sourced ingredients. With stunning views, delicious food, and friendly staff, it’s the perfect recipe for a pleasant day!

8230 Balatonfüred, Kisfaludy utca 5. | Website

Taverna Restaurant and Guesthouse, Balatonfüred

The Taverna Restaurant & Guesthouse is located in the heart of Balatonfüred, not far from Tagore Promenade. The restaurant’s chef combines the latest kitchen technologies with the flavours of traditional Hungarian cuisine, creating a truly unique taste experience. Alongside the exquisite dishes and the finest wines of the Balaton Uplands, a fully renovated five-room guesthouse awaits vacationers. So, if you’re visiting Füred, consider adding this place to your bucket list – whether it’s for dinner or a longer stay!

8230 Balatonfüred, Kisfaludy utca 6. | Website

Borház & Pizzaház, Balatonfüred

At the Borház & Pizzaház (Wine & Pizza House), alongside divine pizzas, you can sample hamburgers and tortilla wraps. But that’s not all – they also offer traditional velős pirítós (marrow toast). The drink menu caters to diverse preferences, featuring excellent bottled wines from the Balaton Uplands, as well as Italian coffee, and a wide range of alcoholic beverages, cocktails, and lemonades. Thanks to recent renovations, the space now boasts a modern ambiance, while still maintaining the relaxed atmosphere that has drawn visitors for 25 years!

8230 Balatonfüred, Kisfaludy utca 5. | Website

Pántlika Bistro – A Taste of Csopak

The recently opened Pántlika Bistro in Csopak offers a glimpse into how the present intertwines with the past. Arriving at this charming Balaton Upland house feels like coming home. Neapolitan-style pizzas, fermented for 48 hours and baked in a 500°C oven, are served one after another, perfectly paired with a draft Peroni or a glass of fresh, crisp Csopak olaszrizling. Pántlika Bistro also serves breakfast, making it an ideal choice for starting your day right.

8229 Csopak, Kossuth utca 101. | Facebook

Random Bagel Bar, Örvényes

The Random Bagel Bar in Örvényes has begun its third season, offering a heavenly experience for bagel enthusiasts. Dive into the new summer menu and enjoy a hearty brunch or a bagel paired with an art exhibition.

8242 Örvényes, Új u. 2. | Facebook

Lelkem Inn, Dörgicse

One of the most family-friendly spots in the Balaton Uplands is Lelkem Inn in Dörgicse. Here, the focus is on serving mouth-watering seasonal flavors and dishes under the walnut trees, alongside attentive service and warm hospitality.

8244 Dörgicse, Fő u. 60. | Facebook

Constans Random Café, Balatonalmádi

Constans Random Café, known as the most secluded café by Lake Balaton, opened wide last summer. This family café and bar in Káptalanfüred is perfect for escaping the world’s noise, offering great coffee, drinks, and snacks.

8220 Balatonalmádi, Káptalan u. 2. | Facebook

Kicsi Csóka, Balatongyörök

Next to the Szépkilátó beach in Balatongyörök, Kicsi Csóka Bistro has everything you need for a relaxing break. Whether you’re after refreshing drinks, excellent coffee, burgers, or lángos, everything is made from the finest ingredients.

8313 Balatongyörök, Takács József u. | Facebook

Takács Zsolt Winery, Rezi

For a break from the bustling southern shore, visit Rezi, home to the friendliest and coziest winery in the area. At Takács Zsolt Winery, you can enjoy exquisite wines, warm hospitality, and a taste of 300 years of family tradition.

8373 Rezi, Kiscomai út | Weboldal

Darnay Cellar and Barn Bistro, Gyenesdiás

Darnay Cellar and Barn Bistro in Gyenesdiás offers special weekend breakfasts and leisurely brunch experiences. If you’re craving a hearty hamburger, marrow toast, tortilla, or a glass of the finest of wines, this is the place to be.

8315 Gyenesdiás, Darnay u. 10. | Facebook

Check out balatonbike365.hu or download the ‘the best app of 2021,’ BB365 on your phone! You’ll find 1000 km of bike paths, over 70 themed tours, 22 rest stops, 5 service centres, and 3600 cool, mostly bike-friendly spots and services. It’s super easy to plan a bike tour around Balaton, a weekend getaway, or even a full vacation. Plus, the app lets you track the kilometres you ride.

Lake Balaton also has a 400 km Cycling Adventure Circle that goes all the way around the lake. This fully signposted route, marked in both directions, mixes easy and tough sections and doesn’t follow the usual bike paths. You can complete the tour in 12 sections, and there’s a guaranteed prize waiting for you at the finish line.

More info >>

Discover more of Lake Balaton:

Treasures from the Past: Renewed Castles and Estates Around Lake Balaton (x)

If you're craving a bit of culture alongside beach time, explore the following impressive locations!

Funzine

Thanks to the development between 2017 and 2023, the Festetics Castle, which functions as both a museum and an event venue, has become an even more attractive destination in the Balaton region. The new exhibition titled ‘Aristocratic Meals’ instantly captivates visitors. Stepping into the magnificent mirror hall, you’ll encounter a brilliantly set dining table that evokes the unique ambiance of the Festetics family’s former dining room.

Additionally, the hunting museum collection has expanded, along with the garden railway track and the historical model railway exhibition tabletops. Perhaps the most exciting addition, however, is the ‘Fejőház’ (Milking House) located in the castle park. There, visitors will find a newly established historical playhouse, an educational workshop area, and an exhibition tailored for the youngest museum-goers.

8360 Keszthely, Kastély utca 1. | Website

Festetics Palace, Keszthely

The Festetics Palace in Keszthely is not only a museum but also a venue for events. This historic castle, set in picturesque surroundings, has been the home of the prominent Festetics family for over 200 years. Recently renovated, it now boasts updated suites and exhibition spaces. Additionally, the castle’s pièce de résistance is the splendid aristocratic dining room, elegantly furnished in the mirror hall.

8360 Keszthely, Kastély utca 1. | Website

Fenékpuszta Festetics Stud Farm

Once one of the most significant centres for Hungarian horse breeding and equestrian sports, the reconstructed stud farm of the Festetics family in Fenékpuszta has been open to visitors. After a tumultuous history, the once internationally renowned estate now welcomes visitors as a diverse leisure centre. Currently, interactive exhibitions and an equestrian museum await you at the end of the black pine road.

8360 Keszthely, Fenékpuszta | Website

Festetics Castle, Dég

Although the name Festetics is generally associated with Keszthely, the family also has a stunning neoclassical castle in Dég, Fejér County. Here, you can catch a glimpse of another aristocratic world characterized by tranquillity, rural air, and long walks. Visitors can explore the beautifully furnished rooms, learn about the family’s history, and stroll around the lake in the country’s largest English park.

8135 Dég, Hunyadi utca 11. | Website

Szántódpuszta Manor

Strolling through Szántódpuszta, you step back into the 19th century, immersing yourself in the heyday of a period estate. On this property from 150-200 years ago, you can explore remnants of earlier agricultural practices and lifestyles. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibitions, equestrian services, delve into the art of blacksmithing, and even learn the secrets of breadmaking.

8622 Szántód, Szántód puszta 1. | Website

A kis Pisztrángos, Fonyód

At A kis Pisztrángos (The Little Trout), you can find almost any dish made from fish or seafood imaginable. Their menu showcases a vide variety of options prepared with expertise, as if you were on a foreign vacation. The charming wooden cabin boasts authentic beach vibes that are alone worth a visit!

8640 Fonyód, Boglári utca 10. | Website

A Konyhám, Balatonfenyves

Located at the beach of Balatonfenyves, the unique A Konyhám (My Kitchen) has proven us a number of times that reforming and re-imagining the concept of beach food is more than possible. The newest addition to the business is A Konyhám Stúdió 365 in Fonyód that offers gastronomic delicacies all year round.

8646 Balatonfenyves, Balaton-Part utca 26. | Website

Bonita Studio, Siófok

The pearl of Siófok, Bonita is much more than a mere Pilates studio, as the health of the body is completed with services to make your soul happy too, including a champagne bar and vitamin-rich smoothie bowls. The list of four mouth-watering health bombs is a good enough reason to visit them more than once.

8600 Siófok, Széchenyi utca 8-10. | Website

Egy Csipet Nádas, Siófok

Egy Csipet Nádas in the Töreki district of Siófok introduces you a variety of flavours to indulge in. Alongside the chirping of birds, they tempt tired hikers from the nearby nature trail with quality time, gastronomic experiences, freshly baked Neapolitan pizzas, and Mediterranean flavours.

8611 Siófok, Töreki utca 40. | Website

Gasztro Élménybirtok (Gastro Adventure Estate), Balatonlelle

It’s safe to say that you won’t get bored at Balatonlelle’s Gasztro Élménybirtok (Gastro Adventure Estate), nor you have to leave hungry. Equipped with an outdoor oven, the thatched-roofed inn welcomes guests with nostalgic meals characteristic of Hungary, such as milk pie casserole with homemade apricot jam.

8638 Balatonlelle-Rádpuszta, Árpád utca Hrsz.: 9033/11 | Website

Helka Sörkert (Helka Beer Garden), Balatonföldvár

Helka Beer Garden of Balatonföldvár is located in a very special environment, guarded by a lakeside line of plane trees. This extraordinary location is not all why Helka is worth visiting: refreshing beers, heavenly dishes, as well as a lively and welcoming social space also contribute to is unique charm.

8723 Balatonföldvár, Rákóczi Ferenc utca 9. | Website

Kányaváry Borbirtok (Kányaváry Wine Estate), Zalaszabar

Surrounded by the undulating Zala Hills, Kányaváry Wine Estate attracts holidaymakers to Zalaszabar. At the semi-natural wine terrace, a glass of traditional Kányaváry wine and the genuine tastes of Zala are complete with live music concerts and exquisite wine tasting events from time to time.

8753 Zalaszabar, Hrsz.: 1519/b | Website

Kedvesem Bistro, Balatonlelle

You’ll find Kedvesem Bisztró (My Darling Bistro) in the heart of Balatonlelle, at Móló Promenade boasting a beautiful panorama over the lake. At this exquisite gastro joint favouring local producers and seasonal ingredients, avocado salmon tartare, sourdough bread, and G&Ts come hand in hand, as you wish.

8636 Balatonlelle, Móló sétány Hrsz.: 3173 | Website

Kilátó Presszó, Balatonföldvár

Located on the high shore of Balatonföldvár, Kilátó Presszó offers one of the most beautiful views of Lake Balaton in the southern shore. This lovely gastro venue, reminiscent of retro cafés, welcomes guests with coffee, refreshments, and snacks, providing a place to relax and enjoy the sunset.

8623 Balatonföldvár, Kilátó köz 5. | Website

kiskék, Balatonfenyves

If you’re seeking unique coffee experiences even at Lake Balaton, then head to Kiskék in Balatonfenyves, which you can easily reach even from the bike path. Alongside a selection of specialty coffees, handcrafted burgers, wraps, and salads will satisfy your hunger, accompanied by refreshing cold lemonades.

8646 Balatonfenyves, Kölcsey Ferenc utca 47. | Website

Kistücsök, Balatonszemes

It’s been 30 years since Balázs Csapody took over Kistücsök (Little Cricket) Restaurant in the heart of Balatonszemes. At Kistücsök, local traditions and ingredients are as appreciated as modern technology, so traditional flavours are not just presented but highlighted in new-wave dishes. Although the menu is mostly inspired by the cuisines of far-away cultures, all courses and wines gently guide guests to the magical Lake Balaton region. Since last year, accommodation is also available for culinary voyagers.

8636 Balatonszemes, Bajcsy-Zsilinszky utca 25. | Website

Majthényi Présház (Majthényi Press House), Balatonlelle

Panorama seekers, wine lovers, and culinary adventurers, the hillside press house-turned-restaurant at the southern part of Balatonlelle is just for you! Neighbouring the Baroque-style chapel, the terrace of Majthényi Press House offers gorgeous panorama over the land, cold duck liver pâté, and great wines.

8638 Balatonlelle-Kishegy, Panoráma utca | Website

Paletta Bistrobár és Vinotéka (Paletta Bistro Bar and Wine Shop), Balatonboglár

Balatonboglár’s Paletta attracts guests with thematic BBQ days, fish burgers with sturgeon from Keszthely, Neapolitan pizzas, and Papa’s scrambled eggs. The venue also boasts grape spritzer, Bezerics wines, and homemade fruit syrups to satisfy your thirst, as well as Bezerics cakes for dessert lovers.

8630 Balatonboglár, Kikötő utca 6. | Website

Pavilon, Balatonboglár

Balatonboglár’s Pavilon Food Bar is the Mecca of laid-back, retro atmosphere and Italian dishes. Before savouring panna cotta with strawberry sauce, tiramisu, or homemade cinnamon dumplings filled with apricots, make sure you give a try to the antipasti, the ham and cheese plate, or the Parma tripe.

8630 Balatonboglár, Kodály Zoltán utca 45-49. | Website

Rubin Borászat (Rubin Winery), Balatonkeresztúr

Rubin Winery is the unmatched ruby of the Balatonboglár wine region, also called the South-Balaton wine paradise. This exquisite winery pays special attention to cultivate their vines sustainably, and they also take pride in their merlot that was voted “The Red Wine of Veszprém-Balaton 2021”.

8648 Balatonkeresztúr, Hrsz.: 1304/2 | Website

Tópart Hotel and Restaurant, Balatonvilágos

Familial hospitality, the vicinity of Lake Balaton, a pleasant summer breeze, and the finest local meals and wines: Tópart Hotel and Restaurant boasts all that. Apart from the culinary experience, the panoramic restaurant named the best wedding location in Hungary offers an unparalleled view over Lake Balaton and the hotel’s beautiful park with ancient trees. The palatable dishes and drinks, such as pike perch fillet, venison á la Bakony, and sweet cottage cheese dumplings with cinnamon cream will sweep you off your feet.

8171 Balatonvilágos, Zrínyi utca 1. | Website

Völgyhíd Konyha & Rét, Kőröshegy

Not only for the captivating scenery but also for the all-day culinary delights, it is worth visiting Völgyhíd Konyha & Rét. What’s more, we haven’t met anyone who could say no to a hearty brunch accompanied by the breath-taking panorama and the Császármorzsa (Emperor’s crumbs) served for breakfast.

8617 Kőröshegy, hrsz.: 111/3 | Website

Káli-Kapocs

Nestled in the heart of the Káli Basin, you’ll find a retro ruin bar with an unmatched atmosphere. In this nostalgic environment, you can indulge in homemade dishes and refresh yourself with delicious drinks. Throughout the summer, there are several events to make your visit even more fun!

8282 Mindszentkálla, Petőfi Sándor utca 11. | Website 

Fövenyes Outdoor Cinema

The well-loved outdoor cinema filled with retro vibes, delicious popcorn, and ice-cold refreshers is located on a tiny street in Fövenyes. The repertoire mainly consists of recent movie hits, but lesser-known alternative films will also be screened at least once a week.

8242 Balatonudvari, Mozi utca 1. | Website

Bala-Toni Retro Museum

The museum is a must-visit destination for every retro enthusiast, as the displayed items will bring about nostalgic moments in the older generation and serve as a great opportunity for the youth to learn about the past in a playful way. The exhibition showcases everyday objects, vehicles, clothing items, and other fun things, including an Utasellátó buffet, which was a go-to gastro spot in the good old days.

8164 Balatonfőkajár, Petőfi Sándor utca 47. | Website

Pavilon

The Pavilon is a perfect place for an afternoon coffee or an evening drink. Don’t miss out on the food either, as the owners have incorporated their experience in South Tyrol into the menu, offering a selection of characteristic Italian dishes as well as traditional Hungarian delicacies.

8630 Balatonbolgár, Kodály Zoltán u 45/49. | Website

Retro Rides

Would you like to experience the long-gone travel adventure of the 1970s and ride in comfortable, rotating-seat train cars? The Hungarian railway is celebrating several significant anniversaries this year, so you can travel on these good-old classic trains around Lake Balaton during two weekends throughout the summer.

Website

Feel like leaving the monotony of everyday life behind? Head to the border of two little villages in the Lake Balaton area, Kapolcs and Vigántpetend, where you will find the hidden, yet easily accessible TreeHouses Rocks that were designed by Hungarian creative group Hello Wood and blend perfectly into their natural environment.

The polygon-shaped chalets are situated outside of hearing distance from each other so that guests can enjoy total calmness that is only interrupted by the subtle sounds of nature. The cabins disguised as rocks are specifically designed for two people, and they are equipped with everything you may need during your stay. Alongside the modern yet cosy bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and tea kitchen, there is a private outdoor hot tub on the terrace for relaxation, and a panoramic infrared sauna in the bathroom to ensure complete rejuvenation.

If you were to get hungry after all the bathing, you can order a two-person cold platter, which provides a delightful and satisfying dinner. For lunch, you can choose from Italian-style dishes, while breakfast will be delivered to your door in a basket at 8 AM. The abundant yet healthy Breakfast Box includes fresh pastries, vegetables, fruits, smoothies, orange juice, cheeses, cold cuts, dips, baked goods, as well as tea and coffee, guaranteeing that you are ready to start the day off on the right foot.

With your recharged batteries, you can go and explore the gorgeous sights of the area, such as the shores of Lake Balaton, the Veszprém Castle, or even Tihany, just to name a few among the numerous possibilities.

3325 Noszvaj, Tósétány utca 20-22. | Website

TOP sights nearby Kapolcs

- Királykő Basalt Column
- The Miller’s House and Mill Museum
- Almád Monastery
- Kinizsi Spring
- Saint Andrew Church Ruins
- Roman Watchtower Lookout

Rezi Castle

Built on top of an imposing cliff on the 425-meter-high Meleg Hill, the ruins of Rezi Castle serve as the number one attraction of the Keszthely Plateau. This medieval fortress was constructed following the Mongol invasion, and was abandoned in the 16th century after the invading Turkish forces set it on fire during a raid. A perfect choice for those who like easy challenges, as you can reach the castle after a relaxed hike.

Szépkilátó Viewpoint, Balatongyörök

Usually, if you want to get a nice view of your surroundings, you have to first gain some altitude, either by scaling a mountain, or climbing to the top of a tower, so that you can take in the wonders of the landscape. Balatongyörök’s Szépkilátó Viewpoint is an exception: the rest stop offers a barrier-free look at the glistening water of Lake Balaton, the buttes of the northern shoreline, and the hills of Fonyód.

Saint Michael Chapel, Vonyarcvashegy

Not far from the bustling beach of Vonyarcvashegy, the 136 meters tall Szent Mihály Hill gives home to the country’s only fisherman’s chapel, with origins that are the subject of a number of local folk tales. Some hundreds of years ago, the hill was still an island, and the chapel was enveloped by a complete castle, which was destroyed over time, leaving only the small shrine and a disused cemetery for posterity.

Somoshegy Viewpoint, Balatonberény

The newest lookout tower on the western shore of Lake Balaton was built on the site of an old viewpoint, offering a breath-taking panorama of the western basin of Hungary’s favourite lake. Balatonberény’s wooden structure features spacious lookout terraces on several levels, providing a top view to the buttes of the Tapolca Basin and Szigliget Castle, while in sunny weather you can see as far as the Tihany Peninsula.

Láz-tető Lookout Tower, Vállus

Láz-tető Lookout Tower is one of the youngest viewpoints around Lake Balaton, yet it is the most visited sight in the small village of Vállus. Built in 2014 at a height of 380 meters, the lookout is best to be approached by following the Wild Garlic educational trail starting from Vállus. Climbing to the top, you’ll be greeted by a view encompassing the ruins of Rezi Castle and the whitewashed Peace Stupa of Zalaszántó.