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Lake Naplas

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

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Lake Naplas, officially known as the Cinkota Reservoir, is the largest standing body of water on the Pest side of Budapest, located in the 16th district. The lake was created in 1978 by damming the Szilas Creek, originally to regulate water flow and provide flood protection for downstream urban areas. The lake and its surrounding 150-hectare area have been protected as a nature reserve since 1997, preserving rich marshland vegetation and a significant population of European pond turtles. Geographically, it sits at the edge of the Godollo Hills, forming an important ecological corridor between the city and nearby forests. In 2021, a modern 22-meter-high wooden lookout tower was completed on the lakeshore, offering a wide view of the reserve and surrounding residential areas. The lake is a popular destination for fishing and hiking, where maintaining ecological balance is a top priority alongside recreation.

Location: Hungary
Top sights: Naplás-tavi kilátó · Naplás-tó TVT · Naplás
Nearby: Újpest (14 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	-2	0	5	12	17	21	23	23	17	11	5	0
Rain mm	38	42	41	38	67	76	71	64	56	52	44	44

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Located on the border of Budapest's XVI and XVII districts, the lake is highly accessible by public transport or car. Bike paths also lead directly and safely to this popular local nature conservation area.

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Best season

It is a fantastic destination throughout the year, but spring and autumn are particularly beautiful for nature walks. Winter features a stark, quiet atmosphere, while summer is incredibly lush and green.

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Terrain & paths

The area features well-maintained, mostly flat walking trails and educational paths that loop around the water. The terrain is very easy to navigate, making it perfectly suitable for all general fitness levels.

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What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes and casual outdoor clothing are perfectly sufficient for this urban nature reserve. Bringing a camera or binoculars is highly recommended for spotting local birds and basking turtles.

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Parking

There are designated, usually free parking areas nearby, typically located just a short walk from the main trails. Spaces can fill up rather quickly on sunny weekends due to immense local popularity.

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Safety

As an urban nature reserve, the area is generally very safe and highly family-friendly. However, visitors must adhere strictly to conservation rules, meaning no swimming or disturbing the wildlife is allowed.

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Time needed

A leisurely walk around the largest lake in Budapest generally takes about one to two hours to complete. Many locals easily stay longer for picnics, photography, or relaxed outdoor recreation during the day.

Geography

Coordinates

47.50500, 19.25200

Facts

The water surface of the lake covers approximately 16 hectares.
The reservoir was artificially created in the year 1978.
The total protected area around the lake is 150 hectares.
The wooden lookout tower opened in 2021 is 22 meters tall.
The lake is home to a significant population of European pond turtles.
The average depth of the reservoir ranges between 2 and 3 meters.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Nagytarcsa3 km · NEExplore →

Kistarcsa5 km · NExplore →

Csömör5 km · NWExplore →

Pécel7 km · EExplore →

Kerepes7 km · NExplore →

Maglód10 km · SEExplore →

Mogyoród11 km · NExplore →

Vecsés11 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Lake Naplas (10)

Naplás-tavi kilátó

Observation tower at Lake Naplás, free entry, closed in storms.

🌐 gutowski.hu🆓

Naplás-tó TVT

Nature reserve around Lake Naplás in Budapest.

🌐 fokert.budapestikozmuvek.hu🕒 24/7🆓

Naplás

Viewpoint with dark sky, limiting magnitude 5.11.

Gózon Gyula Kamaraszínház

Chamber theatre in Budapest, Hungary.

🌐 gozon.hu

Csekovszky-gyűjtemény Kiállítóháza🏛 museum

Exhibition house with Csekovszky collection in Budapest.

Hősök tere🌳 park

Urban square in Budapest District XVII, Hungary.

Magyarok Nagyasszonya-templom

Parish church in Hungary, dedicated to the patron saint.

Cinkotai Tájház🏛 museum

Local history museum in Cinkota, Budapest.

Malohely láp

Wildlife protection area, marshland near Budapest.

Cinkotai evangélikus templom

Church building in Hungary, Lutheran church in Cinkota.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is swimming allowed in Naplás Lake?

No, swimming is forbidden in the lake as it is part of a protected nature reserve.

Is there a lookout tower at the lake?

Yes, the modern Naplás-tó lookout tower provides a great view of the lake and the Cinkota forest.

Can you go fishing at the lake?

Yes, fishing is allowed with a valid state license and a daily ticket from the local association.

How can I reach the lake by bicycle?

A well-maintained bicycle path along the Szilas stream leads directly to the lake.

Is there parking nearby?

Yes, there is a free parking lot for visitors right next to the lake.

Lake Naplas: where is it located?

Lake Naplas is located in Hungary.

Lake Naplas: what is there to see?

Highlights include Naplás-tavi kilátó, Naplás-tó TVT, Naplás.

Lake Naplas: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Lake Naplas: why is it worth visiting?

Lake Naplas, officially known as the Cinkota Reservoir, is the largest standing body of water on the Pest side of Budapest, located in the 16th district.

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