Lake Balaton Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels
freshwater lake in Hungary
About Lake Balaton
The Balaton was popular during the Cold War with both Easterners and Westerners because it was cheap and relatively easy to reach from both sides of the Iron Curtain. Some "German-German" family reunions took place here as that was easier than for either part to travel to the other German state. After falling by the wayside following the fall of the Soviet Union, the Balaton area has seen a resurgence in popularity. While Hungarians love spending time there, you will also encounter people from places like Slovenia, Croatia, Bulgaria, Greece, and Germany. The combination of natural beauty, cheap price tags, and cultural events make the lake a must-see in Hungary.
Top Attractions in Lake Balaton
Explore the best things to see and do in Lake Balaton:
- ★Cross-Balaton Swim Contest.
Lake Balaton Travel Guide Sections
Our comprehensive guide covers 12 sections including: