Balatonfüred - The Complete Holiday Travel Guide

Balatonfüred is a charming Hungarian town located on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, often referred to as the “Hungarian Sea.” Known for its picturesque streets, historical buildings, and beautiful beaches, Balatonfüred is the perfect destination for those looking for a mix of relaxation and culture.

How many days
Getting there

As for how many days to stay, it depends on your personal preferences and the type of holiday you are looking for. For a short break, a long weekend (3-4 days) would be enough to explore the town and its surroundings and enjoy some relaxation time. For a more leisurely holiday, a week would be ideal to have enough time to fully experience everything Balatonfüred has to offer.

To get to Balatonfüred from Budapest, you have a few options. The most popular and convenient method of transportation is by train. The journey takes around 2 hours and trains run frequently from Budapest’s main railway stations, such as Keleti and Déli.

Another option is to drive, which takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. If you prefer to fly, the nearest airport is Hévíz-Balaton Airport, located about 40 km from Balatonfüred. From there you can take a bus or taxi to the town.

Your Travel Guide to A summer holiday at Lake Balaton, in Balatonfüred

Things to do

One of the top things to do in Balatonfüred is to take a stroll along the promenade, known as the “Anna Ball.” This beautiful path runs along the lake and offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding hills. Along the way, you can stop at various cafes and restaurants to enjoy a drink or a meal.
Another must-see attraction in Balatonfüred is the Tagore Promenade, named after the famous Indian poet and philosopher Rabindranath Tagore. This lovely promenade is lined with chestnut trees and offers more great views of the lake.
For history buffs, the town is home to several notable historical buildings, including the Castle of Balatonfüred, which dates back to the 14th century. The castle now serves as a museum, where you can learn about the town’s rich history.
For those looking to relax, Balatonfüred has several beaches to choose from, including the popular Jókai Beach, which offers a range of activities, such as swimming and sunbathing.
In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Balatonfüred also has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events taking place throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include the Wine Festival and the Anna Ball, a traditional event held in honor of the town’s famous promenade.

Where to stay

Balatonfüred offers a wide range of accommodation options, but for those looking for a truly special holiday experience, staying in a place with a view of the beautiful Balaton lake is a must. Here are some of the best places to stay with a view over the lake:

Hotel Annabella: This 4-star hotel is located on the Anna promenade, offering breathtaking views of the lake from its rooms and terrace. The hotel also features a wellness center, a restaurant, and a bar.
Villa Viktória: This charming villa is located on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding hills. The villa is perfect for those looking for a more private and exclusive holiday experience.
Panoramic Apartment: This apartment is located in a modern building, offering beautiful views of the lake from its terrace. The apartment is fully equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.

Travel Tip(s)

No matter which option you choose, staying in a place with a view of the lake will add an extra level of magic to your holiday in Balatonfüred. Make sure to book in advance as these places can be highly sought after during peak season.

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Daytrips near Balatonfüred

Here are a few towns that are definitely worth checking out:

Balatonfüred is located in a beautiful region of Hungary, and there are several towns worth visiting in the surrounding area.

Hévíz: This town is famous for its thermal lake, the largest in the world, which is said to have healing properties. Hévíz is about 40 km from Balatonfüred.
Szigliget: This small village is on a hill overlooking the lake, and it’s known for its medieval castle, which dates back to the 13th century. Szigliget is around 25 km from Balatonfüred.
Badacsony: This town is on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, and it’s known for its wine production, particularly white wines. Badacsony is around 25 km from Balatonfüred.
Keszthely: This town is on the western shore of Lake Balaton and is known for its beautiful baroque architecture and the Festetics Palace, which is now a museum. Keszthely is around 60 km from Balatonfüred and it will take you just over an hour to get there. Getting there: Take Nádor u. to Ady Endre u. 42 sec (230 m), Take Bajcsy-Zsilinszky u., Route 71, Fő u. and Route 71 to Unterberger u. in Keszthely 1 hr 8 min (61.5 km); Drive to Rákóczi út 55 sec (300 m). You’ve arrived in Keszthely.

Above, Tihany: This picturesque town is on the western shore of Lake Balaton and is known for its historical buildings, including the Tihany Abbey, which dates back to the 11th century. Tihany is around 20 km from Balatonfüred.

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Travel Tip(s)

All of these towns are worth visiting and easily accessible from Balatonfüred. You can reach them by bus, train or car. It’s a great idea to visit them and get a taste of the different cultures and the history of Hungary.

Why is Balatonfüred so popular?

Overall, Balatonfüred is a must-visit destination for those looking for a unique and enjoyable holiday experience, offering a perfect blend of culture, history, and relaxation.