Keszthely,Hungary
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.
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Szia (Hello)" - Hello
- "Köszönöm (Thank you)" - Thank you
- "Igen (Yes)" - Yes
- "Nem (No)" - No
- "Elnézést (Excuse me)" - Excuse me
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the Town
morning:Start your morning with a visit to the Festetics Palace, a stunning historic landmark. After that, take a leisurely stroll around the charming town center. Don't miss the opportunity to grab a delicious breakfast at the Retro Bistro!
afternoon:In the afternoon, head to the Helikon Castle Museum to delve into the local history and culture. Then, wander through the beautiful grounds of the Balaton Museum. Enjoy a delightful lunch at the Villa Tolnay Restaurant, offering a perfect blend of local and international cuisine.
evening:For a delightful evening, consider heading to the charming Keszthely Old Town to explore the vibrant dining and entertainment scene. Be sure to check out the cozy Sandor Palace for a wonderful night-out experience.
Lake Balaton
morning:Embrace the morning with a relaxing visit to the lovely Balaton Lake. Take a refreshing walk along the tranquil shore and enjoy the scenic beauty. Before anything else, relish a delightful breakfast at the classy Porto Restaurant!
afternoon:In the afternoon, indulge in various water activities at the Beach Club Keszthely. Whether it's swimming, sunbathing, or water sports, you're sure to have a blast. Treat yourself to a tasty lunch at the cozy Bella Italia Restaurant, situated by the lakeside.
evening:For an incredible evening experience, don't miss the opportunity to book a sunset boat tour on Lake Balaton. It's the perfect way to conclude your day with a breathtaking view of the sunset over the water.
Cultural Exploration
morning:Spend your morning exploring the intriguing Museum of Agriculture, a captivating place to learn about the region's agricultural heritage. After the museum, take a peaceful stroll around the picturesque Keszthely Market. Recharge with a delightful breakfast at the charming Poco Loco Cafe!
afternoon:In the afternoon, venture to the unique Doll Museum to marvel at the impressive collection of dolls from various eras. Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to the Kovács Margit Museum. Treat yourself to a cultural-themed lunch at the elegant ThamĂris Caffe & Bistro.
evening:For an unforgettable evening, consider attending a performance at the Festetics Palace Theater. Enjoy a night-out immersed in the cultural and artistic ambiance of the theater.
Nature & Wellness
morning:Kick-start your day with a rejuvenating experience at the Keszthely City Beach, where you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and indulge in wellness activities. Treat yourself to a wholesome breakfast at the cozy Il Gusto Cafe!
afternoon:For a peaceful afternoon, visit the tranquil Helikon Park, where you can unwind amidst beautiful gardens and scenic views. Following the park, explore the fascinating sights at the Marzipan Museum. Indulge in a healthy and delicious lunch at the Garden Villa Restaurant.
evening:Cap off your day with a visit to the Keszthely Thermal Lake and experience the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich water. Afterward, savor a relaxing evening at the Muschel PanziĂł Wellness & Spa to rejuvenate and unwind.
Keszthely Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Paprikás Csirke (Chicken Paprikash)
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!
Halászlé (Fisherman's Soup)
This spicy fish soup, a staple of Hungarian cuisine, can be savored at Bercsényi Halászcsárda, a renowned lakeside restaurant known for its traditional preparation.
Lángos
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.
Photography Spots in Keszthely
Locations for the best views and photo opportunities
Festetics Palace
A historic castle with stunning gardens and architecture, offering panoramic views of Keszthely and Lake Balaton.
Helikon Castle Museum
Located on the shores of Lake Balaton, this museum offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and the opportunity to capture stunning photos.
Balaton Museum
Situated near the waterfront, the museum provides a great vantage point to capture picturesque views of the lake and its surroundings.
Seasonal Advice
Best times to visit and what to expect in different seasons
Spring (March - May)
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 (June - August)
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 (September - November)
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 (December - February)
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.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Keszthely Farmers' Market
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).
Street Food Stalls along Keszthely Promenade
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.
Pet sitters in Keszthely
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!