17 things to enjoy at Lake Balaton this summer

Try one of Balaton’s latest hangouts

There’s at least one new and exciting place in each Balaton region to have opened recently: Veganeeta Home in Balatonalmádi is already popular, then there’s Pura Vida Port in Keszthely and Csopak’s new eatery Szomszéd Kertje – just to mention three.

Catch the last rays of sunshine on a wine terrace

There’s no need for explanation: there are more and more high-quality terraces around Balaton where you can sit down with a large group of friends, and enjoy wonderful wines and first-rate food on both the north and south shores.

Experience the unique atmosphere of Szent György-hegy

This is the place everyone is talking about. Here the iconic press houses are being rebuilt, gatherings are held under the stars and the destination is full of life. Szent György-hegy is perfect for a hike combined with a gastro walk. From apartment restaurants to cool wineries, there are so many things here that a single weekend isn’t enough.

Taste award-winning ice creams

Bringatanya in Gyenesdiás wins award after award but Bagaméri in Balatonfüred is also pretty successful. Other must-try ice cream parlours include Florida in Balatonmáriafürdő and Várkávézó in Szigliget. 

Get adventurous and try flying

You can try hang gliding around Balaton at Cserszegtomaj, Balatonfőkajár and Sármellék, a whole new experience and something to boast to your friends about.

Have a slow breakfast with local pastries

You can buy high-quality breads and baked goods at numerous places around the lake, such as Balatonfüred’s Péklány or Kisapáti’s Búzalelke. Just look around at one of the farmers’ markets and take your time to start the day with a long breakfast.

Explore Veszprém with music

With events such as the Street Music Festival and VeszprémFest, Veszprém is the hub of cultural events in the Balaton Uplands but it’s buzzing with life even when there isn’t a big festival going on. Once you explored everything its city centre has to offer, take a walk to Veszprémvölgy or around the Castle District.

Visit Somogy County

If you’re looking for a truly unique, hidden accommodation that’s still close to the south shore, then take a look around Somogy County. With so much reconstruction taking place, the region has gems such as Villa Bogart or Babérliget.

Try fine pizzas

Traditionally, Balaton is not known for the quality of its pizza places but a number of venues are now trying to change that. Apáti Restaurant in Sajkod, Pura Vida Port in Keszthely and Lavender Terrace in Balatonvilágos all pay special attention to the dough, so if you are a fan of pizza, make sure to check out these contenders.

Get lost in the forests of Keszthelyi-hegység

Hiking is a great escape for those who are looking for a quiet place even in high season. Keszthelyi-hegység has an abundance of trails, from lookout towers to hidden paths such as the unique Bazaltutca.

Row along a guided tour in Badacsonylábdihegy

Badacsonylábdihegy has one of the smallest beaches of the area yet it has some really exciting things in store. You can row along the recently opened water study trail with a guide or alone.

Watch the World Cup from Balaton’s shore

The World Cup is reaching its climax, so we recently rounded up the best spots around the lake where you can cheer in the company of other football fans.

Ride a bike and relax

Panoráma Lookout Spot (Balatonvilágos), A Zöld (Szentkirályszabadja), Guruljon az élet (Balatonfüred-Csopak), Kossuth Spring and the sour water springs (Balatonfüred), Nagyi Kertje Tea Shop (Aszófő): these are just some of the best cycle stops to plot up for a bite, a drink or to fix up your bike.

Climb rocks in Csesznek

Lovers of more extreme sports should visit Bakony for thrills and excitement. The slopes of Csesznek have climbing routes of various difficulties that are worth the effort not only for the experience but also for the view that rewards climbers at the end.

Taste the BalatonBor selection

To become a certified BalatonBor, the Olaszrieslings at Balaton wineries have to meet certain requirements and pass blind tastings. The wines that receive certification are sold in unified bottles under a shared brand but with their own name. If everything goes according to plan, a new group of strictly selected wines will be issued later this year.

Take the kids to an adventure park

Zobori Adventure Park in Zalaszabar will soon be expanded with a rollercoaster and it’s only one of the many great parks where you can spend an excitement-packed day. Zamárdi Adventure Park added new features this year, Bringaréna in Eplény has chairlifts and mountain bike marathons, while Balatonfűzfő and Balatonboglár have toboggan courses.