As Hungary’s first holiday destination, Balatonfüred holds a special place in the history of Lake Balaton. While its roots can be traced back to Roman times, its transformation began in the late 18th century when its carbonated springs were discovered. These healing waters attracted European nobility and intellectuals, establishing Füred as a distinguished spa town.
The Reform Era (1825-1848) marked Balatonfüred’s cultural golden age, introducing traditions such as the Anna Ball, which celebrates its 200th anniversary this year. This prestigious event, held annually near St. Anne’s Day, continues to attract distinguished guests and concludes with a parade, where the ball’s queen is escorted by hussars in her ceremonial carriage.
Balatonfüred’s cultural heritage is perhaps best represented by the Tagore Promenade, named after the Nobel Prize-winning Hindu poet who planted the first linden tree here in 1926 after recovering at a local sanatorium. Today, the tree-lined walkway features memorial trees planted by renowned scientists and artists and is home to cafés, restaurants, and the popular August Wine Weeks.
Historical sites such as the Jókai Mór Memorial House and the House of Jewish Excellence complement perfect hiking destinations such as the Jókai Lookout, the Lóczy Cave, and the Koloska Valley. Meanwhile, year-round festivals and cultural events add a contemporary vibe to this historic spa town.
Don’t miss it!
Tagore Promenade
The lakeside promenade is named after Rabindranath Tagore, the Indian poet who recovered here in 1926. The poet created a tradition by planting a tree, and today many celebrities, including politicians, artists and scientists, have done the same, turning the promenade into a true memorial park. Lined with restaurants, cafés, and shops, it’s the perfect spot for relaxation and leisure.
Jókai Mór Memorial House
The Jókai Villa in Balatonfüred is a stunning neo-Renaissance building on the shores of Lake Balaton. Built in 1870 by renowned Hungarian writer Mór Jókai, it served as his summer retreat until 1889. Today, it operates as a museum showcasing his life and literary legacy. Visitors can view his personal belongings, furniture, books, and manuscripts.
Vaszary Gallery
The Vaszary Gallery in Balatonfüred is a beautifully renovated building in the heart of the city, hosting exhibitions that combine contemporary and classical art. The gallery is named after Kolos Vaszary, the Archbishop of Esztergom, who built the villa at the end of the 19th century. It opened its doors to the public in 2010 and has since become highly popular among art lovers. The gallery building itself is a work of art, blending modern and classical architectural features. Its garden also features a beautiful statue park.
Kossuth Lajos Spring
The Kossuth Lajos Spring is one of the most famous and most visited spots in the city. Located at Balatonfüred Gyógy Square, the spring is protected by a classical-style well house. The water, known for its high iron content and healing properties, is consumed by many for its benefits. It not only heals you when consumed, but you can also bathe in it in the pools located in the well house.
Vitorlázeum
The exhibition is located in the building of Balatonfüred and Lake Balaton’s oldest sailing club, showcasing the history of sailing on the lake, different types of boats, and famous sailors. Vitorlázeum is not a traditional museum but an interactive space where visitors can try a storm simulator, learn navigation and knot-tying skills, and practice sail raising.
Tihany
Situated near Balatonfüred, the Tihany Peninsula, which extends into Lake Balaton, offers stunning views of Central Europe’s largest freshwater area from its volcanic heights. The village’s jewel, the recently renovated Benedictine Abbey, stands on the steep eastern edge, founded by King Andrew I in 1055. This landmark holds deep significance as it is home to one of the first written records of the Hungarian language and is still enchanting visitors today with its Baroque interior and royal crypt.
The 300-metre-long Pisky Promenade connects Echo Hill with the abbey, offering panoramic views, charming cafés, and cultural gems such as the Tihany Ethnographic Houses and the Pottery House. In the centre of the village, the Paprika House celebrates Hungary’s iconic spice, while the slopes between Csúcs Hill and Apáti Hill showcase another local treasure: the lavender fields planted in 1926, which create a fragrant purple blend among the almond trees each summer.
