Things To Do
in Keszthely
Keszthely is a charming town located on the western shore of Lake Balaton in Hungary. It is known for its historic architecture, including the iconic Festetics Palace, which is a popular tourist attraction. The town also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and events throughout the year.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming in the lake, cycling, and hiking in the surrounding countryside.
- "Szia" - Hello
- "Kérem" - Please
- "Köszönöm" - Thank you
- "Igen" - Yes
- "Nem" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Festetics Palace, where you can admire its beautiful architecture and gardens. Take a leisurely stroll around the palace grounds to soak in the morning serenity.
Head to the nearby Keszthely beach for some sun and relaxation. Enjoy lunch at a beachfront restaurant and take a swim in Lake Balaton.
Wander the charming streets of Keszthely and explore local shops. Finish your day with dinner at a traditional Hungarian restaurant.
Rent a bike and ride along the scenic paths around Lake Balaton. The fresh morning air and beautiful views will energize your day.
Stop at a cozy café for some refreshments before continuing your ride. Enjoy the picturesque villages and landscapes along the way.
Return to Keszthely and unwind with a relaxing evening by the lakeshore. Sample some local wine at a nearby wine cellar.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful scenery by Lake Balaton, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Rich cultural heritage with historic architecture and museums.
- Vibrant local events and festivals throughout the year.
- Pleasant climate suitable for tourism in the summer.
- Access to various recreational activities, including boating and hiking.
- Limited job opportunities, especially for locals.
- Can be overcrowded during peak tourist season.
- Public transport options may not be as extensive as in larger cities.
- Some services may be limited outside of tourist areas.
- Economic reliance on tourism, making the local economy vulnerable to seasonal fluctuations.
Best Activities in Keszthely
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Just a short distance from Keszthely, this natural thermal lake is perfect for a relaxing day swimming in warm mineral waters surrounded by beautiful nature.
Explore the stunning Baroque palace and its gardens, while enjoying guided tours that include the private collections and vintage car exhibition.
Take advantage of the scenic bike paths around Lake Balaton, offering beautiful views and peaceful rides through the countryside.
Try out water sports such as windsurfing or sailing on Lake Balaton, where various rentals and schools are available for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
Enjoy the breathtaking views and diverse wildlife while hiking the trails in the Keszthely Mountains, suitable for all levels of hikers.
Spend a day at the marina, where you can watch boats and yachts, have a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants or take part in boat tours on the lake.
Places to Visit in Keszthely
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic castle with stunning gardens and architecture, offering panoramic views of Keszthely and Lake Balaton.
Located on the shores of Lake Balaton, this museum offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and the opportunity to capture stunning photos.
Situated near the waterfront, the museum provides a great vantage point to capture picturesque views of the lake and its surroundings.
Food in Keszthely
Keszthely Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved Hungarian dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy paprika-infused sauce, often served with homemade nokedli (egg dumplings). For an authentic taste, head to Etelbar restaurant.
Must-Try!
This spicy fish soup, a staple of Hungarian cuisine, can be savored at Bercsényi Halászcsárda, a renowned lakeside restaurant known for its traditional preparation.
A cherished Hungarian street food, lángos is a deep-fried dough topped with garlic, sour cream, and grated cheese. You can find delectable lángos at the Keszthely Farmers' Market.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of the town, this vibrant market offers an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, honey, and an assortment of delectable street food, including lángos and kürtőskalács (chimney cake).
Stroll along the picturesque promenade by Lake Balaton and indulge in a variety of street food delights, from grilled sausages to freshly made kürtőskalács, a sweet, spiral-shaped pastry cooked over an open flame.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When greeting someone in Keszthely, a friendly handshake is common. It’s polite to make eye contact and smile. In more informal settings, hugging or kisses on the cheek may be appropriate among friends.
During meals in Keszthely, it is customary to wait for the host to begin eating before you start. Additionally, keeping your hands on the table (but not your elbows) is considered polite.
In public places, it's important to maintain a quiet demeanor, especially in areas like churches, museums, and during public transportation. Being respectful and considerate of personal space is also valued.
Safety
Tipping in Keszthely
Ensure a smooth experience
In Keszthely, Hungary, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is customary to round up the bill or to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants and cafes if the service is satisfactory. For other services, such as taxis, rounding up to the nearest round figure is typical.
In Keszthely, various payment methods are accepted. Cash is widely used, especially in smaller shops and market stalls. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Keszthely is a beautiful time to visit as the weather starts to warm up and the landscape becomes lush and green. The town comes alive with colorful flowers and the lake is tranquil, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Keszthely, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The town is bustling with visitors and there are numerous events and festivals, particularly around Lake Balaton. It's a great time for swimming, boating, and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and the stunning fall foliage around Keszthely. The town is less crowded, allowing for a more relaxing experience. It's a great time for wine tasting and exploring the local vineyards, as well as enjoying the peaceful atmosphere around Lake Balaton.
Winter in Keszthely is a quiet and serene time, with colder temperatures and occasional snow. The town takes on a peaceful atmosphere, and it's a great time for those who enjoy winter activities such as ice skating and visiting the nearby thermal baths. The town also hosts Christmas markets and events, adding a festive touch to the season.
Keszthely at Night
Hiking in Keszthely
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking area near Keszthely with trails offering beautiful views of Lake Balaton and the surrounding landscape.
A protected area featuring several hiking trails through diverse flora and fauna, ideal for nature lovers.
A picturesque hiking destination with rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages, perfect for a day trip from Keszthely.
A larger hiking area that encompasses various trails, historic sites, and stunning vistas of Lake Balaton, located a short drive from Keszthely.
A popular hiking spot featuring various trails and the ruins of an old castle, providing remarkable views over the region.
Aiports
How to reach Keszthely by plane.
The nearest international airport located approximately 11 km from Keszthely, serving mainly low-cost and charter airlines.
Hungary's largest international airport located about 200 km from Keszthely, serving a wide range of international flights.
Located around 240 km from Keszthely, this major international airport in Austria serves numerous global destinations.
Located approximately 200 km from Keszthely in Croatia, this airport provides access to various international flights.
Situated about 210 km away in Slovakia, this airport serves several European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Keszthely, comprising the majority of the population.
A minority group with historical roots in the region, contributing to the local culture.
A small community in Keszthely, often involved in various local trades and crafts.
A minority group present in the region, with their own cultural and linguistic heritage.
A small ethnic community in Keszthely, primarily involved in local agriculture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Keszthely, with various local clubs and community events that engage residents and promote youth participation.
Basketball is a widely played sport in Keszthely, with local teams and leagues contributing to the vibrant sports culture in the town.
Volleyball is enjoyed both recreationally and competitively, with local tournaments and beach volleyball events taking place during the summer months.
Athletics, including running and field events, is popular among both youth and adults, with events organized by schools and local sports clubs.
Given Keszthely's location near Lake Balaton, swimming is a favored activity, with many locals participating in swimming competitions and recreational swimming.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Keszthely.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Hungarian cuisine leans heavily on meat-based dishes, many restaurants in Keszthely offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, with options such as stuffed peppers (töltött paprika) and vegetable stews (zöldséges egytál).
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free dishes like grilled fish and fresh salads at various restaurants in Keszthely, and many establishments are accommodating to specific dietary requirements upon request.