Szaplonczay Promenade

Szaplonczay Promenade is one of Fonyód’s most popular tourist destinations, and for a good reason. As you stroll along, you can admire the elegant villas from the 20th century. From there, stunning views stretch from Keszthely to Tihany on the northern shore of Lake Balaton. Be sure to sit on the café’s terrace, where you can relax in complete tranquility.

Sipos Hill Lookout Tower

Even on the southern side of Lake Balaton, hiking enthusiasts won’t be short of destinations as Sipos Hill offers an easy walk. From the lookout tower at the top, visitors can recognize Tihany, Keszthely, and the witness hills of the northern shore. The breathtaking scenery will definitely compensate for the long staircase leading up to the tower!

8640 Fonyód, Hóvirág utca 17.

Church of Our Lady of the Assumption

Church of Our Lady of the Assumption is worth visiting not only for its beautifully restored Romanesque-style architecture but also for its impressive surroundings. Situated on the slope of Sipos Hill, the church’s garden offers a stunning panorama of the northern shore, while the serene and elevated atmosphere of the church makes the experience even more special.

8640 Fonyód, Templom utca 7.

Fonyód Fortress

Fonyód Fortress is not only one of Fonyód’s most remarkable sights but also a rare attraction in Hungary. Its history dates back to the 16th century, although the original fortress was destroyed during the Ottoman era. Lately, the entire site has been fully renovated and is now a popular recreational area, especially among children.

8640 Fonyód, Árok utca

Fonyód Market

Covering nearly three hectares, Fonyód Market is the largest market around Lake Balaton where visitors can browse a wide range of handicraft products and antique decorations. Naturally, seasonal vegetables, fruits, and flowers are also an essential part of the market’s offerings. The market is open every Wednesday and Saturday, including public holidays.

Don’t sleep on Balatonboglár’s attractions:

Balatonboglár Bucket List: 5 Places You Can't Miss at the Southern Shore's City

Balatonboglár has plenty of attractions and sights besides its beaches, that would be a shame to miss during your holiday.

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Festetics Castle, Keszthely

The castle’s enchanting Historical Playhouse offers themed days all summer long, creating engaging experiences for families, while until September 19 the Kocka Exhibition held in the Amazon House provides a unique visual experience. Fans of interactive programmes can dive into the world of Castle Crime on July 12 and August 29, where a mysterious murder awaits investigation.

Between July 17 and 26, the KULT/SZÍN/TÉR programme series fills the castle park with life, featuring theatre performances, concerts, and musicals. One of the summer’s most special evenings arrives on July 11, when Vivaldi’s Four Seasons is performed by candlelight as part of the Castles by Candlelight concert series, surrounded by thousands of glowing candles.

On August 1, the Be Massive Horizon Secret Garden party brings a new vibe to the castle: a limited-capacity, exclusive electronic music event where historic surroundings meet contemporary sound. Classical music lovers are welcomed on August 14 by Rákász Gergely’s Mozart – Castle Edition concert, offering a unique journey through the history of music.

Nádasdy Castle, Nádasdladány

Nádasdy Castle also comes alive with activity: within its historic walls, an array of exciting programmes awaits visitors of all ages. On July 10, Gergely Rákász’s special Mozart – Castle Edition concert transports audiences back to the golden age of music, where classical melodies blend with Renaissance atmospheres and intriguing historical references.

The castle is not only for music lovers: on June 27, July 15, and August 19, the popular Castle Crime event is also held here. In the Tudor-style building, participants are challenged to solve a mysterious murder, relying on logic, observation skills, and a touch of courage to uncover the truth.

For more events, click here!

 Do not miss Veszprém’s highlights:

Exploring Veszprém in the Summer Season

Its rich history and culture, calm atmosphere, and proximity to the picturesque Lake Balaton make it well worth a visit.

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Urban Ride in Budapest

Budapest offers hop-on-hop-off rides for tourists, but if you want to explore the city like a local, take a ride on Tram Line 2, as it is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to meet the capital. Frequently listed among Europe’s most beautiful tram routes, this iconic yellow tram runs along the Pest side of the Danube, offering postcard-worthy views between Jászai Mari Square and Közvágóhíd. During the ride, passengers can admire the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building, the elegant Chain Bridge, the Buda Castle district, and the hills rising above the western side of the city. There is no wrong timing: morning rides provide soft light over the river, while sunset transforms the entire panorama into golden.

Budapest from the Water

If you’re looking for a calm yet unforgettable experience, a Danube cruise is difficult to surpass. Luckily several types of cruises are available from daytime sightseeing boats to elegant dinner cruises with live music and Hungarian cuisine. No matter which one do you choose, you can admire the Parliament, the historic Buda Castle and Matthias Church, Gellért Hill, and the famous bridges connecting Pest and Buda. At night, Budapest becomes even more magical, as the riverbanks create a romantic atmosphere that attracts couples and photographers around the world. Many cruises also provide multilingual audio guides explaining the city’s history and architecture.

Discover the City on Two Wheels

Budapest is a famously bicycle-friendly city, and the riverside offers ideal conditions for exploring the capital on two wheels, like a true local. If you don’t have your own bike, you can easily rent bicycles or use the city’s public bike-sharing system. We recommend the route between Liberty Bridge and Margaret Bridge, which is popular among both locals and visitors because of its viewpoints where you can discover famous monuments and hidden corners of the city. If you have the energy, continue the ride to the north until reaching Szentendre, a lovely village less than 30 kilometres away from the capital. For a lighter trip, Margaret Island is also a great destination, where you can circle beneath ancient trees and the musical fountain.

Party by the Riverbank

During spring and summer evenings, the riverbanks become especially vibrant as Pontoon transforms the Danube riverbank into one of Budapest’s most atmospheric open-air music venues. Located beside the famous Chain Bridge, this lively meeting point offers sunset concerts, DJ sets and cultural events that continue late into the evening. Guests can enjoy refreshing drinks while listening to live music with the illuminated Buda Castle rising above the river in the background. The relaxed yet energetic atmosphere perfectly captures the rhythm of the Hungarian capital and offers a social experience far beyond traditional sightseeing. For music lovers, Pontoon delivers unforgettable summer nights directly on the waterfront.

A Powerful Memorial

Not every experience along the Danube is cheerful or entertaining. One of Budapest’s most important memorials is the Shoes on the Danube Bank sculpture, located near the Parliament. This moving monument commemorates the Jewish victims who were executed on the riverbank during World War II. The victims were ordered to remove their shoes before being shot into the Danube. To honor their memory, sculptors created sixty pairs of iron shoes placed directly along the edge of the river. Flowers, candles, and personal messages are often placed beside by visitors from around the world. The contrast between the peaceful river and the painful history leaves a lasting impact on many visitors.

Active Fun by the River

Combining nature, sport and urban atmosphere, Kopaszi-gát has become a favourite summer destination for a refreshing escape along the Danube. The southern half-island offers a unique way to experience the Danube: here, visitors can rent a stand-up paddleboard and glide across calm waters while enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline, modern riverside buildings and green park areas. SUP boarding here is perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers, as the protected bay provides safe and peaceful conditions throughout the day – but just to be sure, we only recommend this activity for visitors knowing how to swim. After an active session on the river, relax on the sunny terraces nearby.

Relaxing on Liberty Bridge

Few summer traditions in Budapest feel as spontaneous as sitting on Liberty Bridge after sunset. When the bridge occasionally closes to traffic during special weekends and summer evenings, locals gather along the green bridge to share drinks, music and conversations while overlooking the shimmering Danube below. Tourists quickly discover that this simple activity reveals the city’s youthful and welcoming character more than any guided tour. From the middle of the bridge, visitors can admire spectacular views of Gellért Hill and the vibrant Pest side while enjoying the warm evening atmosphere. Spending a night on Liberty Bridge is a uniquely Budapest experience that combines freedom, community and unforgettable urban scenery.

Explore the Danube by Boat:

Your Guide to Exploring the Danube by Boat

Whether you’re in the mood for a chill small-town stroll, a laid-back family day, or a bubbly night cruise, MAHART Cruises lets you explore the most beautiful parts of the Danube your way this season

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Balloon Lookout

For a true rush and a genuine once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience, take to the skies in a balloon! Set in the ever-busy City Park, known for its museums, landmarks, and seasonal buzz, this is one of Budapest’s most exhilarating lookout points. The iconic red-and-white striped balloon, safely anchored to the ground, lifts you up to 150 meters, offering far-reaching views that can stretch up to 20 kilometers on a clear day. From this rare vantage point, the city’s highlights, from Heroes’ Square to Vajdahunyad Castle, unfold beneath you in a way few ever get to see.

1148 Budapest, Városliget | Website

MOL Campus SkyDeck

Towering above Budapest, the 28-storey MOL Campus offers SkyDeck visitors a truly unmatched perspective on the city. A panoramic elevator whisks you 120 meters up in moments, opening onto a spectacular 360-degree view that stretches across the capital. Before or after your visit, the ground-floor Visitor Center adds another layer to the experience with its interactive, free exhibition exploring MOL Group’s history, sustainability ambitions, and cutting-edge innovations.

1117 Budapest, Dombóvári út 28. | Website

Budapest Ferris Wheel

If you’re after a slightly more adrenaline-tinged way to take in the city, Budapest’s sightseeing Ferris Wheel delivers both a thrill and a truly marvelous panorama. Rising above the buzz of Deák Square, it lifts you out of the downtown rush into a fleeting, almost suspended moment, where the Danube, the Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle unfold beneath you in sweeping views. The gentle motion keeps it serene rather than overwhelming, making it feel less like a ride and more like an escape, especially after dark, when the city glows and sparkles far below.

1051 Budapest, Erzsébet tér | Website

Mária Magdolna Tower

Set in the heart of the Castle District, Mária Magdolna Tower on Kapisztrán Square is a must-visit in summer for both history buffs and panorama lovers. This late Gothic landmark, dating back to the 15th century, offers a glimpse into the layered past of Buda Castle, but the real highlight comes when you climb the spiral staircase and step out into the sunshine where sweeping views of Budapest’s iconic skyline and the green Buda hills make it all worth it. Add in the laid-back summer atmosphere and the rotating exhibitions in the side chapel, and you’ve got a spot that blends culture, history, and unforgettable views in one easy stop.

1014 Budapest, Kapisztrán tér 6. | Website

Looking for more?

The Treasures of Buda: 9 Places You Can’t Miss

Architectural marvels, thriving food and drink scenes, regenerating neighbourhoods and wild green escapes, all woven together into something that feels less like a tourist itinerary and more like a city worth living in.

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Views from the Top

Riding the Siófok Ferris Wheel reveals the sweep of Lake Balaton and the bustling beach promenade, while the top of the Siófok Water Tower offers a clean, panoramic view of the city and the lake. Without a doubt, the most unique perspective is provided by GoBalloon, where a hot-air balloon experience lets the summer landscape unfold from a bird’s-eye view.

Green Escapes

If you are looking for a light walk, head to Millennium Park, which, with its shady trees and tidy walkways, is one of the most peaceful meeting points downtown. The Rose Garden is also not to be missed, enchanting visitors with its fabulously beautiful, fragrant flowers. And if you long for the classic Balaton vibe, Jókai Park is a superb place to relax, complete with spacious green areas, benches, and chirping birds.

Architectural Masterpieces

Amidst all the hustle and bustle, the city’s rich architectural heritage often takes a backseat, yet it is well worth exploring. The Angel of Peace and Goodness awaits those walking along the shore at the end of the pier, while the Imre Kálmán House pays homage to the famous composer, Jókai Villa evokes the golden age of Balaton vacations, steeped in a literary atmosphere. It is also worth visiting the Krúdy Villa and Thanhoffer Villa, which bring the world of the turn of the century closer.

Natural Treasures

With its rich wildlife and nature trails, the Töreki Lakes region is an ideal waterfront excursion spot, where the meeting of water and reedbeds creates a special atmosphere. If you want to take a break in the heart of nature, you can do so at the Cinege Rest Area, while the protected Swallow Bank offers a rare sight: you can watch birds bustling in nests carved into the clay wall.

Family Fun

At the Bella Animal Park, you can get up close and personal with the world of domestic and exotic animals, and you can even feed them. The Lulu Adventure Park builds on children’s curiosity, while the House of Waters Adventure Park presents the world and importance of water in an interactive way. Finally, Bebo Aquapark is one of Lake Balaton’s most cheerful water playgrounds, where obstacle courses and slides guarantee endless fun.

Are you Hungry?

Must-try Gastro Spots on the Southern Shore of Lake Balaton

This guide showcases the essential restaurants and cafés, ranging from cozy lakeside spots to high-end gourmet venues, perfect for food enthusiasts.

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Bem Mozi

A Buda institution since 1908, Bem Mozi is a beloved neighbourhood cinema that moonlights as a bustling bar near Margaret Bridge. Film classics, art house picks, and the occasional live concert – all enjoyed with a cold drink in hand. The terrace is the perfect spot to linger before or after the show.

1027 Budapest, Margit körút 5. | Facebook

Csendes Létterem

Part bohemian café, part buzzing bar, and entirely unlike anything else in the city: Csendes Létterem near Astoria is Budapest’s most Wes Anderson-esque hangout. Local university students pack it by day; a lively international crowd sipping on fine beverages takes over come nightfall. This one’s for art lovers!

1053 Budapest, Ferenczy István utca 5. | Facebook

Lámpás

Cheap beer, table football, and floor lamps as far as the eye can see: underground and underlit Lámpás is one of the most authentic ruin bars in the Jewish District. Full of cozy nooks and crannies and boasting an amazing concert offering, you can bump into open mic performers and rising Hungarian rock acts any night of the week.

1074 Budapest, Dob utca 15. | Facebook

Nemdebár

Furnished like your Hungarian grandmother’s living room gone gloriously off the rails, Nemdebár is a surreal corner bar on Széll Kálmán Square. Regular live DJ sets, mismatched furniture, and a wonderfully eclectic crowd of twenty-something creatives and seasoned night owls make this one of Buda’s most endearing hidden gems.

1024 Budapest, Széll Kálmán tér 5. | Facebook

Kisüzem

By day a remote worker’s haven with solid lunch options and pub grub, by night a buzzing bar stacked with 130 types of rum and 40 whiskies, Kisüzem is one of the Jewish District’s finest. Regular art exhibitions and a reliably eclectic crowd of locals, tourists and expats make it an easy place to love.

1072 Budapest, Kis Diófa utca 2. | Facebook

Madhouse Bistro & Bar

A craft beer lover’s paradise, downtown’s Madhouse serves carefully selected Hungarian brews, alongside natural wines, cocktails, and hearty bistro dishes (courtesy of chef Norbert Piszkor), plus burgers and spicy wings for good measure. Come hungry, come thirsty – come both. Madhouse has you covered either way.

1061 Budapest, Anker köz 1-3. | Facebook

Have a seat at these secret gardens:

5 Cool Garden Venues To Have the Best Time in Budapest

From leafy beer gardens and hidden courtyard retreats to open-air music venues, here are 5 garden venues in Budapest to enjoy this summer.

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Nehru Park

Nestled between the sculptural curves of the Bálna and the everyday hum of Boráros Square, Nehru Park is a quiet exhale right on the Danube’s edge. This leafy riverside retreat has a gentle, laid-back magic, especially as the sun begins its slow descent behind Gellért Hill, bathing the Liberty Bridge in deep shades of amber and rose. Spread out on the grass, let the colours wash over you, and remind yourself that the best things in this city are free.

Tóth Árpád Promenade

Running along the southwestern flank of Buda Castle, Tóth Árpád Promenade is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve wandered into a painting. Tree-lined and quietly elegant, this unhurried walkway faces the rolling Buda Hills – and when the sun drops low, the reward is immediate: silhouettes layering over the hills, the sky bleeding into into a deep, honeyed orange, and a stillness that the louder viewpoints simply can’t offer. It’s the more romantic, decidedly less selfie-stick side of Castle Hill. There’s a reason locals keep coming back.

Garden of Philosophers

On the Elisabeth Bridge side of Gellért Hill (and perched right above Budapest’s largest reservoir) the Garden of Philosophers is the city’s best-kept sunset secret. While the crowds gather in and around the Citadella, here you share golden hour with Gandhi, Buddha, and a few of history’s greatest thinkers, all cast in bronze, all gloriously unbothered. As the afternoon gives way to evening, the other side of the river stirs to life in a whole new light. It’s also one of the finest picnic spots in Budapest: peaceful, cinematic, and completely free. Pack a blanket, bring something good to eat, and let the wise men do the thinking.

Gellért Hill Rose Garden

Planted two years ago to celebrate Budapest’s 150th anniversary, the Rose Garden in Jubileum Park on the southern slope of Gellért Hill is as meaningful as it is beautiful. Each of its 3,195 rose trees stands for an inland or cross-border Hungarian settlement, transforming what could have been a simple garden into a living, breathing map of the nation. When the sun dips low, the blooms blush deeper, and the whole hillside seems to glow from within. It’s intimate, poetic, and entirely off most tourists’ radars.

Museum of Ethnography Roof Garden

Flanking City Park, the Museum of Ethnography is one of Budapest’s most striking new buildings, boasting a roof garden that’s unlike anything else you’ve ever visited. Spanning over 7,000 square metres and opening around the clock, this undulating, hillside-inspired curved park offers sweeping views over the House of Music, the Museum of Fine Arts, Heroes’ Square, and the far-away Buda Hills. Spread out on the grass with a bottle of wine in hand or climb the stairs to the top for one of the finest – and certainly the most unexpected – sunset panoramas in the city and let the light do its thing.

Népsziget

Nicknamed Mosquito Island by locals, Népsziget is a small Danube peninsula that punches well above its weight. Cross the railway bridge on foot or by bike, and you’ll find breathtaking river views, a string of bohemian, dog-friendly bars, and an off-the-beaten-path vibe that you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the city. Expect a solid spread of street food, cold beers, and cocktails set to live DJ sets, with the occasional sunset pub quiz thrown in for good measure. Best of all, unlike Római Beach across the water, here you get longer sunshine hours and the full, unobstructed spectacle of the sun slowly disappearing behind the Buda Hills.

Looking for more summer fun?

5 Cool Garden Venues To Have the Best Time in Budapest

From leafy beer gardens and hidden courtyard retreats to open-air music venues, here are 5 garden venues in Budapest to enjoy this summer.

Funzine

Papilona Butterfly House

Hidden inside a magical tropical environment, Papilona Butterfly House invites visitors into a colourful world filled with free-flying exotic butterflies in the city centre. The warm, humid air and lush greenery create the feeling of stepping into a rainforest in the middle of Budapest. It’s without hesitation the perfect rainy-day activity for families, couples, and photographers looking for a peaceful yet visually spectacular indoor experience.

1056 Budapest, Belgrád rakpart 6. | Website

Széchenyi Bath DaySPALM

The DaySPALM package at Széchenyi Bath offers a tropical atmosphere connected to one of Budapest’s iconic thermal spa complexes. Surrounded by exotic plants and cozy warmth, visitors can relax away from the rain, enjoying the historic elegance of the famous bathhouse while the staff members welcome you with alcoholic or alcohol-free cocktails, other drinks and light snacks. You can book this special offer every week from Monday to Thursday.

1146 Budapest, Állatkerti körút 9-11. | Website

Twentysix

Twentysix is more than a restaurant – it’s more like an urban jungle in the heart of Budapest. Filled with hanging plants, Mediterranean design, and cozy indoor spaces, the venue feels like a greenhouse-inspired oasis during rainy afternoons. Tourists love this place because of its stylish atmosphere, wide international cuisine and relaxed vibe, making it a perfect stop for brunch, exotic cocktails, or just a quick escape from the grey weather.

1061 Budapest, Király utca 26. | Website

Füvészkert Palm House

Located in Budapest’s historic botanical garden, the Palm House of Füvészkert transports visitors into a serene tropical world filled with giant palms, exotic flowers, and rare plant species. Founded in the 18th century, it’s the oldest botanical garden in Hungary and remains an important scientific and cultural landmark in the city. The peaceful indoor setting is perfect for slowing down on a rainy day while discovering the botanical treasures.

1083 Budapest, Illés utca 25. | Website

Biodome

In the middle of summer, a spectacular attraction will open inside the Biodome: the nearly one-hectare, four-season oasis will become a kingdom of plants, while hulmans, Bali starlings, and spur-thighed tortoises will also move in. Thanks to the unique features of the building – which is a massive hall with light-transmitting surfaces – the attraction is unaffected by the weather, allowing you to explore the capital’s newest landmark at any time.

1146 Budapest, Állatkerti körút 6-12. | Website

Pavilon Restaurant

Pavilon Restaurant offers a refined yet welcoming escape from rainy Budapest streets, combining elegant interior design with a calm, nature-inspired atmosphere. Known for its modern Hungarian and international dishes, the restaurant attracts both locals and tourists seeking a stylish dining experience indoors. Large windows, sophisticated decor, and carefully crafted seasonal menus make it an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch, dinner or coffee break.

1051 Budapest, Dorottya utca 2. | Website

Visiting an exhibition is also a good choice:

Art Highlights: 5 Exhibitions to Discover this Summer

Budapest’s summer exhibition scene offers a rich mix of major international shows and hidden gems.

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With a continuously expanding cycling network of over 1,000 kilometres and nearly 100 recommended well-marked routes, everyone can find an itinerary that suits them. Whether it’s a family outing, a leisurely e-bike tour, a road cycling training session, or an off-road adventure, you will find your perfect fit.

Beyond the well-known lakeside cycle path, it’s worth venturing further inland. The witness hills of the Balaton Uplands, the natural treasures of Kis-Balaton, the rolling hills of Somogy, and the lesser-known settlements along the southern shore offer experiences that often go unnoticed when travelling by car.

The balatonbike365.hu website supports planning with detailed tour recommendations, a route planner, and GPX files, while the routes themselves are easy to follow using navigation tools or the BB365 app. In addition, traditional and electric-assist bicycles are available for rent at several locations.

For more information about the routes, tour offers and rentals, visit BalatonBike365’s website.

Cycling Bases Around Lake Balaton

Planning your trip can be made even easier with the Balaton Bike Hotel directory, a curated collection of accommodation providers around Lake Balaton that are specifically tailored to cycling guests.

The website currently features 25 partners for those looking to combine a Balaton holiday with active recreation, including hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and apartments. These places vary in style and price range, but they all share one common feature: services designed to support cycling guests and make their stay more convenient.

Across all locations, guests can expect secure bike storage, service points, bike washing facilities, e-bike charging options, and information about the best nearby cycling routes.

You can find more information about the bike bases here, on Balaton Bike Hotel’s website.

Don’t miss the beautiful city of Veszprém:

Exploring Veszprém in the Summer Season

Its rich history and culture, calm atmosphere, and proximity to the picturesque Lake Balaton make it well worth a visit.

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Northwestern Shore

Borbarátok

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

Muskátli Restaurant and Confectionery, Badacsonytomaj

For nearly forty years, comfort food and the warmth of home have filled the heart of Badacsonytomaj thanks to the Szita family’s restaurant. At Muskátli Vendéglő és Cukrászda, freshly cooked Hungarian dishes and irresistible homemade cakes are served with heart and soul – in a cozy environment.

8258 Badacsonytomaj, Balaton utca 2. | Website

Félúton Bistro, Badacsonytomaj

In the heart of Badacsony, nestled among the vineyards, Félúton Bistro welcomes guests with memorable flavours in a renewed setting. This summer, enjoy specialties such as Hungarian simmental sirloin and red wine rooster stew, perfectly complemented by excellent wines from the Badacsony region.

8258 Badacsonytomaj, Kisfaludy Sándor utca 5. | Website

Northeastern Shore

Vitéz Chimney Cake, Tihany

The Vitéz Kürtős shop in Tihany is celebrating its sixth season, warmly welcoming visitors on Pisky Promenade, on the walk from the Abbey lookout toward Echo Hill. Alongside their freshly baked chimney cakes, you’ll also get a fairy-tale panorama of Lake Balaton! Guests can choose from three truly special product lines among the charcoal-grilled delicacies. In addition to the traditional chimney cake, you’ll also find Kürtős Fondue – sliced chimney cake served with chocolate, apricot jam, or pistachio cream for dipping. The biggest sensation, however, is the unique Kürtősbon: chimney cake dough filled with a variety of delicious creams, available exclusively at Vitéz Kürtős. It’s an absolute must-try! They also treat their guests to themed weekends: on the first weekend of every month, the treats are made vegan, while on the last weekend of the month they prepare gluten- and dairy-free specialties, so everyone can share in the joy of chimney cake. During the summer season, Vitéz Kürtős welcomes visitors every day between 10 AM and 7 PM.

8237 Tihany, Halász köz 9., Pisky sétány | Website

Casa Christa, Balatonszőlős

Above Balatonszőlős, on Kis Gella Hill, lies a Tuscan-style paradise that is an unmissable stop for food lovers exploring the northern shore of Lake Balaton. Across its 60,000-square-metre estate, Casa Christa captures the spirit of la dolce vita, which comes to life in its restaurant through a harmonious blend of Hungarian elements, in collaboration with local producers. The restaurant’s kitchen has earned numerous awards, including the Michelin Bib Gourmand designation on four occasions, two toques from Gault&Millau, and in 2023, it was awarded the title of “Beloved Restaurant” by the Dining Guide. This summer, it has introduced a host of exciting seasonal specialties, such as sea bass, eggplant strozzapreti, fruit soup, tarragon yogurt parfait, and even a reimagined kaiserschmarrn, complemented by excellent Balaton wines. From the sail-shaded terrace, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Balaton, Tihany, the surrounding hills, and the two thousand almond trees that encircle the restaurant. Everything is in place for visitors to immerse themselves in the unique harmony of Mediterranean ambiance and outstanding flavors.

8233 Balatonszőlős, Izabella út 1. | Website

Sissi Ice Cream Shop, Balatonakarattya

Sissi Ice Cream Shop welcomes its guests at the gateway of Lake Balaton, in Balatonakarattya, with a huge selection of 48 different artisan ice cream flavors. Among their special treats, you will also find several award-winning creations: Sissi Ice Cream Shop has received awards at the Balaton Ice Cream competition in 2022, 2023 and 2026, as well as gold medals from numerous other national and international competitions over the years. It is no surprise that it is beloved not only by locals, but also by bathers, holidaymakers, and cyclists alike! Do not be misled by the long line that winds in front of Sissi Ice Cream Shop during the season, especially on weekends: service is provided at 4-6 points at the same time, so you will receive your favorite summer dessert quickly, and besides ice cream, they also prepare coffee and lemonade for you. After choosing your well-deserved refreshment, you can relax in the shade of the trees at the free parking area, where plenty of seating, benches, tables, water bottle refill options, and even an air compressor for cyclists are available.

8172 Balatonakarattya, Napfényes parkoló | Website

Jóbarátok Fish Fry, Balatonalmádi

Jóbarátok Halsütöde has been welcoming guests year-round for nearly 50 years. Their menu features freshly fried fish, fisherman’s soup, and even weekend offers during the off-season, all served with a stunning panorama, a cozy winter garden, family-friendly atmosphere and warm hospitality.

8220 Balatonalmádi, Lóczy tér 1. | Facebook

Balaton Restaurant, Balatonfüred

Balaton Restaurant welcomes guests in Balatonfüred with a spacious terrace, rich history, and stunning lake views. Its wine list highlights top regional wines, while the menu combines traitional flavors with modern cuisine: fish soup, Hungarian dishes, Italian pizza, burgers, desserts and more.

8230 Balatonfüred, Kisfaludy utca 5. | Website

Taverna Restaurant & Guesthouse, Balatonfüred

A hidden gem by Lake Balaton, Taverna Restaurant & Guesthouse is a must-visit in Balatonfüred, offering exceptional cuisine with high-quality ingredients. Known for its carefully curated wine list featuring Balaton Uplands wineries, it also offers breakfast, five guest rooms and starting this summer, Italian pizza.

8230 Balatonfüred, Kisfaludy utca 6. | Website

Fogas Csárda, Tihany

Tasty dishes, wines from the Balaton region, and a panoramic terrace overlooking the Inner Lake await those visiting the Fogas Csárda in Tihany. This cozy restaurant is furnished in a rustic style, with hand-carved furniture, local textiles, and ceramic ware, creating a truly unique setting that is hard to find anywhere around Lake Balaton. Fogas Csárda also features two terraces, offering maximum comfort while enjoying your favorite Hungarian or international dishes close to Lake Balaton.

8237 Tihany, Kossuth Lajos utca 9. | Website

Öböl Picnic, Balatonfüred

Whether it’s a family lunch, a relaxed spritzer with friends, a cycling day around Lake Balaton, or a casual dinner, Öböl Piknik is an ideal summer choice. Situated between Csopak and Balatonfüred, this dog-friendly gastrospot is perfect for slowing down and enjoying the moment, as you can dine under sun sails in a stunning natural setting. The menu features beloved classics such as beef stew, fish and chips, egg dumplings, and poppy seed bread pudding. Plus, they host great events too!

8230 Balatonfüred, Kerekedi utca 1. | Website

Western Shore

Zala Bistro, Kehidakustány

At the lakeside Zala Bistro, the tranquility of the sunset and the harmony of premium flavors create a truly special experience within the Zala Springs Health & Golf Resort. In an elegant setting, guests are welcomed with refined dishes and carefully selected wines, where every evening becomes a small celebration. Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a friendly gathering, or a moment of quiet relaxation, the rush of everyday life is replaced here by the closeness of nature and the calm of the panoramic view. In the kitchen, special attention is given to local ingredients, working closely with nearby small-scale producers and suppliers to ensure that only the highest-quality, premium ingredients are served. The menu is shaped by the rhythm of the seasons, allowing the selection to continuously renew and always place fresh, seasonal ingredients at its center. In the style of modern bistro cuisine, international flavors meet Hungarian gastronomic traditions, creating a unified experience defined by a contemporary approach, effortless elegance, and a unique natural setting.

8784 Kehidakustány Golf utca 1. | Website

Liget Royal Restaurant, Hévíz

Liget Royal Restaurant is one of the finest dining destinations in Hévíz. The place is famous for high-quality gourmet cuisine and its modern, yet old-world charm. If you’re planning to stay longer in Lake Balaton’s bathing city, you can also book one of the restaurant’s beautiful guest rooms.

8380 Hévíz, Petőfi Sándor utca 7. | Website

Zenit Balaton Restaurant & Bar, Vonyarcvashegy

Zenit, the north shore’s Gault&Millau-rewarded restaurant brings the very best of the Balaton Uplands’ seasonal cuisine to your table. In the menu, there is no room for unnecessary additions, only carefully chosen, quality dishes and wines that truly deserve their place.

8314 Vonyarcvashegy, Helikon utca 22. | Website

A must-visit on the Southern Shore:

Balatonboglár Bucket List: 5 Places You Can't Miss at the Southern Shore's City

Balatonboglár has plenty of attractions and sights besides its beaches, that would be a shame to miss during your holiday.

Funzine