From interactive museums and wine tastings to culinary delights and spa sessions, there’s plenty to do around Lake Balaton even when it’s raining cats and dogs.
1/18
Relax at Hévíz
The world’s largest natural-spring lake is renowned for its healing waters, which you can enjoy even in the bad weather. Afterwards you can sample the hot tub or try a sauna session.
2/18
Visit Festetics Palace
The country’s largest palace offers a whole day's worth of attractions, such as an 18-room exhibition about how noble dynasties lived, an awe-inspiring library and a carriage exhibit.
3/18
Get to know Balaton history
Balaton Museum awaits visitors with an interactive exhibition featuring archaeological finds, ship mock-ups, bathing suits and more.
4/18
Row through Tapolca Cave Lake
You can row through the extensive system of caves below the settlement. Just make sure to book your visit ahead as it can get pretty busy at the visitor centre.
5/18
Hunt for treasure at Csigó Malom
Stílus Galéria is a shop and exhibition space with a selection of antiques, including furniture, clothes, porcelain and valuable vintage treasure.
6/18
Enjoy a sauna session on the beach
Szigliget beach is open every season: when it’s cold, you can use the sauna, when it’s very cold, you can use the ice rink. If you are truly adventurous, you can cool down in the lake after your sauna session.
7/18
Taste herbs at Gyógynövény-völgy
Gyógynövény-völgy in Zánka grows about 500 kinds of herbs on its grounds. You can warm up with herb wines and teas in the buffet.
8/18
Explore the secrets of Tihany Abbey
Join one of the tours that will take you to places otherwise closed to the public such as the Baroque sacristy, the monastery’s herb garden and the monk’s chapel – keep in mind that you have to book five days ahead.
9/18
Learn more about lavender
Levendula Ház in Tihany showcases the origin of the peninsula, its flora and fauna, and, of course, its lavender. You can shop for lavender essential oils, soaps, bathing salts and syrups in the gift shop.
10/18
See spectacular artwork at KOGART
Besides the permanent exhibition showcasing the work of sculptor Miklós Boros, KOGART also has exciting temporary displays.
11/18
Learn more about sailing
Balatonfüred’s Sailing Museum offers an interactive exhibition where you can learn how to make knots and see what a storm is like on Balaton thanks to the storm simulator.
12/18
Get to know Balatonfüred’s sweet side
The mix of homemade cookies, family recipes and views of Lake Balaton makes Karolina a great destination. Make sure to try their iconic metre-long gingerbread.
There are two Bergmann confectioneries in Balatonfüred, and both are perfect choices on a rainy day. Pair their cream cake with a cup of warming alcoholic coffee.
Arácsi, a bit further from the centre, is known for its Cremeschnitte and its pies. Enjoy a sweet bite amid the books of this cosy little spot.
13/18
Taste the wines of István Jásdi
Jásdi Wine Terrace is open all year round and it’s one of the Balaton spots you can’t miss. Go for their Olaszriesling, and don’t forget to enjoy the view while sipping your wine.
14/18
See contemporary paintings
Located at Veszprém Castle, the Vass László Collection is one of the largest of its kind in the country, showcasing the works of contemporary artists.
15/18
See castle dungeons
This exhibition at Veszprém Castle focuses on 17th-century dungeons and the prisoners held in its cells.
16/18
Learn more about a tragic literary figure
Attila József was a revered Hungarian poet with a tragic story – you can learn more about him at this exhibition in Balatonszárszó.
17/18
Enjoy a sauna session at Galerius Spa
There are plenty of options to choose from at this spa, including various saunas, a hot tub and a giant slide.
18/18
Eat at one of Balaton’s top restaurants
Kistücsök offers seasonal and simple dishes made with local ingredients. It’s often hard to snag a free table, as the place is quite popular.
Márga Bistro builds on the excellent wines of Szent Donát Manor – besides the creations on your plate, you can also enjoy one of the most beautiful views of Lake Balaton here.
Visit Mi a kő in Káli Basin to enjoy contemporary art and local flavours.
