Plizio Visual Lab
Lake Balaton
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Lake
Weather…
Water temperature…
Lake Balaton, often referred to as the 'Hungarian Sea,' is the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe, located in western Hungary. It covers a surface area of approximately 592 square kilometers and stretches 77 kilometers in length. Despite its vast surface, the lake is remarkably shallow, with an average depth of only 3.3 meters, which allows the water to warm up quickly during the summer months. The lake's formation dates back about 15,000 years to tectonic shifts and subsidences in the region. The northern shore is defined by the volcanic hills of the Bakony Mountains and the historic Tihany Peninsula, while the southern shore is famous for its long, shallow sandy beaches. Economically, Balaton is Hungary's primary tourism hub and a prestigious wine-producing region with centuries of viticultural history. Ecologically, it is part of the Balaton Uplands National Park, providing a vital habitat for numerous protected bird species and local fish like the pike-perch.
- Location: Hungary, Hungary
- Top sights: halkeltető · Újlaki templomrom · Vízicsúszda
- Nearby: Balatonkenese (24 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 1 | 5 | 11 | 16 | 21 | 23 | 23 | 17 | 11 | 5 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 37 | 41 | 41 | 34 | 65 | 66 | 61 | 63 | 62 | 52 | 44 | 42 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The lake is exceptionally well-connected and can be reached from Budapest within just a few hours using frequent regional trains, direct intercity buses, or driving via the M7 motorway.
Best season
The bustling summer months from June to August are incredibly popular for beach holidays and swimming, while spring and autumn offer quieter, cooler conditions well-suited for cycling.
Terrain & paths
The shoreline is generally flat and highly developed, featuring numerous grassy public beaches, paved cycling tracks, and gentle slopes that descend safely into the very shallow waters.
What to bring
Depending on your specific plans, packing standard beachwear, high-quality sun protection, and comfortable cycling or walking shoes is essential to fully enjoy the surrounding amenities.
Parking
Virtually all towns surrounding the lake feature designated parking lots near the main beaches and harbors, though these spots require fees and fill up quickly during the peak summer season.
Safety
The typically shallow waters make it an exceptionally safe destination for families, but a highly effective storm warning system uses flashing lights to warn swimmers of sudden high winds.
Time needed
Most visitors plan to stay for at least an extended weekend, while many choose to spend a full week or more to deeply explore the various resort towns, vineyards, and scenic viewpoints.
Geography
Facts
- Largest lake in Central Europe with a 592 km² area
- The average water depth is only 3.3 meters
- The maximum length of the lake is 77 kilometers
- Formed by tectonic subsidence around 15,000 years ago
- Tihany Peninsula marks the narrowest point of the lake
- Water temperatures can reach up to 28°C in summer
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Lake Balaton (9)
Balaland Familypark
Family amusement park with rides and playgrounds.
Szabadstrand
Free public beach on Lake Balaton.
Juhász Gyula utcai strand
Residential area beach, shallow water.
Uvapart Strand
Beach with grassy area and snack bar.
Aranyház felső ürege
Cave in Tihany, upper entrance.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How deep is Lake Balaton on average?
The lake is quite shallow, with an average depth of 3.3 meters; the south shore is particularly shallow.
Is there a cycle path around the whole lake?
Yes, the Balaton Bike Ring is approx. 210 km long and runs almost continuously directly along the shore.
When is the best time for swimming?
The main season is June to August, when water temperatures reach a pleasant 22 to 26 degrees Celsius.
Are there ferries between the two shores?
The only car ferry operates year-round between Tihany and Szántód; the crossing takes only 8-10 minutes.
Is fishing allowed anywhere on the lake?
Fishing is only allowed with a valid state fishing card and a regional Balaton fishing license.
Lake Balaton: where is it located?
Lake Balaton is located in Hungary, Hungary.
Lake Balaton: what is there to see?
Highlights include halkeltető, Újlaki templomrom, Vízicsúszda.
Lake Balaton: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Lake Balaton: why is it worth visiting?
Lake Balaton, often referred to as the 'Hungarian Sea,' is the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe, located in western Hungary.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Hungary →
Nearby cities
Tihany
Historic village on a volcanic peninsula, famous for its Benedictine Abbey and vibrant lavender fields.
Balatonföldvár
Popular resort town on the southern shore of Lake Balaton.
Zamárdi
Zamárdi is famous for its three-kilometer-long free beach, the Balaton Sound festival, and the spectacular view of the Tihany Abbey.
Aszófő
Aszófő is a charming village on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, serving as the western gateway to the iconic Tihany Peninsula.
Balatonszárszó
A peaceful, family-friendly resort on the southern shore, known for the Attila József Memorial Museum and its well-kept parks.
Balatonfüred
The oldest resort on Lake Balaton, known for its healing springs.
Balatonakali
Balatonakali is a charming lakeside village on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, distinguished by its strong winemaking heritage and be…
Balatonszemes
A charming town on the southern shore featuring a significant Postal Museum, a lovely marina, and historic tree-lined avenues.
Csopak
Csopak is famous for its premium white wines, award-winning beach, and picturesque water mills along the brook.
Siófok
The 'Capital of Lake Balaton', known for its vibrant nightlife and beaches.
Alsóörs
A charming resort on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, famous for its historic red sandstone houses and its modern sailing marina.
Balatonlelle
Popular resort town on the southern shore of Lake Balaton with a sandy beach.
Nagyvázsony
Nagyvázsony is a historic gem located at the meeting point of the Balaton Uplands and the Bakony Mountains, deeply embedded in Hungarian …
Balatonalmádi
A charming town on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, characterized by red sandstone, lush parks, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Révfülöp
Révfülöp is a historic resort town and a vital transportation hub on the northern shore of Lake Balaton.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Kab Hill
The highest point of the Southern Bakony with a TV tower.
Csobánc
Csobánc is one of the characteristic witness hills of the Tapolca Basin.
Herend Porcelain Manufactory
The world-famous manufactory producing hand-painted luxury porcelain.
🗺️
Rub' al Khali (Yemen)
The southern edge of the world's largest sand desert, extending into the northern regions of Yemen.
Saint George Hill
Famous for its massive basalt columns, the 'basalt organs'.