Things To Do
in Keszthely
Keszthely sits on the western shore of Lake Balaton, Hungary's largest freshwater lake, blending a historic town center with a lively lakeside promenade. The star attraction is Festetics Palace, a grand 18th‑century estate surrounded by gardens and museums. The city pairs Baroque and neoclassical architecture with family-friendly beaches, inviting cafés, and easy access to nearby vineyards and hiking spots.
As Balaton's gateway to the west, Keszthely offers culture, cuisine, and scenic views year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Keszthely, a charming town nestled along the northern shore of Lake Balaton. After checking into your accommodation, take a leisurely stroll along the scenic waterfront promenade. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a quaint café, sampling local pastries and coffee.
Visit the Festetics Palace, a stunning Baroque structure surrounded by beautiful gardens. Explore the palace's museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. Spend time wandering through the estate's expansive grounds, taking in the architectural beauty and lush greenery.
Dine at a lakeside restaurant, where you can indulge in traditional Hungarian cuisine. As the sun sets over Lake Balaton, enjoy a relaxing atmosphere and picturesque views. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the shore, soaking in the tranquil surroundings.
Start your day with a visit to the Keszthely Town Museum, which provides insight into the local history and art. Admire the diverse exhibits showcasing the heritage of the area. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets, filled with historic buildings and delightful shops.
Head to the Roman Ruins of Gorsium, located just outside the town, to explore ancient remnants and learn about the Roman era in Hungary. Enjoy a guided tour or wander at your own pace amidst the fascinating ruins. Capture stunning pictures of the site while enjoying the open air.
Experience a traditional Hungarian dinner at a local tavern, enjoying hearty dishes like gulyás (goulash) and stuffed paprika. Engage with local residents and get recommendations for hidden gems in the area. End your night by relaxing in a cozy café, sipping on a glass of local wine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 in mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚲Bike rental (half-day) | $8-18 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range 3-star) | $70-120 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic Balaton setting with easy lake access
- Rich history and imposing Festetics Palace
- Good value for food and lodging in a tourist-friendly town
- Pleasant mix of culture, nature, and wine regions nearby
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to bigger cities
- Summer crowds can be heavy around the promenade
- Some attractions operate on seasonal schedules in shoulder months
- "Jó napot" - Good day / Hello
- "Kérem" - Please
- "Köszönöm" - Thank you
- "Beszélsz angolul?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mennyibe kerül?" - How much does it cost?
- "Hol van a mosdó?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Segítség!" - Help!
- "Egészségedre!" - Cheers!
Places to Visit in Keszthely
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive baroque facade with manicured gardens; a classic backdrop for grand portraits and architecture shots.
Long, picturesque lakeside path with boats, promenade cafés, and sunset reflections over the water.
Elegant civic architecture and colorful town squares ideal for street photography.
Lush greenery, ponds, and paths ideal for nature shots and candid photography.
Pier and boats with warm evening light over Balaton; perfect for long-exposure water shots.
Food in Keszthely
Keszthely Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy, paprika-spiked fish soup made with Balaton or river fish; best sampled at lakeside eateries near the harbor.
Must-Try!
Pepper-tomato ragout often served with bread, eggs, or sausage; a staple of late spring and summer meals.
A rich, paprika-forward soup with beef, potatoes, and vegetables; widely available in cafés and taverns.
Fried catfish fillet or catfish paprikash served with potatoes or dumplings; a popular Balaton-area fish dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seasonal produce, cheeses, pastries, and regional snacks; try lángos hot from a stall and pastry stands for a quick bite.
Street-food classics—fried dough with sour cream and cheese (lágsos) and chimney cake (kürtőskalács) fresh off the grill.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Jó napot' (Hello) or 'Szia' in informal settings; shake hands in formal encounters; address people by their title when appropriate.
Wait to start eating until everyone is served; avoid loud, disruptive behavior in public spaces; modest dress is typical in restaurants.
Cash is common; photography in churches may require permission; tipping customs vary by venue.
Safety
Tipping in Keszthely
Ensure a smooth experience
If service charge is not included, rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common; in casual venues, cash tips are appreciated even if you pay by card.
Cash in Hungarian forint is widely accepted; most places accept cards (tap/contactless). ATMs are common in town, and some shops may accept mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures climb from cool to mild (roughly 15–22°C). Gardens wake up, and outdoor cafés begin opening. Expect occasional rain; layers are useful.
Peak season with warm days (20–30°C) and lively lakeside activity. Expect crowds around the promenade and beaches; quick rain showers are common but short.
Milder days and crisp evenings (15–22°C). Harvest festivals and wine tastings pick up; fewer crowds and vibrant fall foliage along the lake.
Cold start to the year; temperatures around -2 to 5°C. Some attractions may have reduced hours; Hévíz thermal spa can be a warm refuge nearby.
Keszthely at Night
Hiking in Keszthely
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hike around the Badacsony volcanic hills with dramatic lake views and vineyard scenery, suitable for a half- to full-day hike.
Moderate ascent to the Szigliget Castle ruins, offering panoramic views over Balaton and neighboring villages.
Forest and hill trails in the broader Balaton Uplands region with varied flora and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Keszthely by plane.
Largest international gateway to Hungary; about a 2.5–3.5 hour train or car journey to Keszthely, depending on connections.
Regional airport serving several low-cost carriers; roughly 15–25 minutes by car to Keszthely seasonally, with good links in peak periods.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Hungarian with historical German and Roma communities; a growing number of seasonal workers and international visitors seasonally.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding are popular during warm months.
Long-distance lake routes and forest trails attract recreational cyclists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Keszthely.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Hungarian dishes can be vegetarian or easily adapted. Look for mushroom-based dishes, cheeses, grilled vegetables, and be sure to request no lard or meat stocks. In most places you can get a tomato-pepper based stew, cheese plates, or mushroom risottos.