Northern Shore: Tihany, Badacsony & Balatonfüred
Tihany — The Soul of Lake Balaton
The peninsula of Tihany juts out like a green finger into the lake and is the most beautiful place on Lake Balaton. Atop the hill stands the baroque Abbey Church (Tihanyi Apátság, founded in 1055 — the founding charter contains the oldest known words of the Hungarian language!). From the terrace in front of the church, there is a breathtaking panorama over the lake. The village below is a labyrinth of lavender-lined lanes, craft shops, potteries, and small restaurants. In June and July, the lavender fields bloom — a fragrant experience you won't forget.
Tihany's Inner Lake (Belső-tó) is a crater lake on the peninsula itself — a quiet place surrounded by reed belts, contrasting with the lively Balaton. The hiking trails across the peninsula (3–8 km) lead through volcanic rocks, almond gardens, and wild nature.
Badacsony — Wine and Volcano
The Badacsony is an extinct volcanic cone on the northern shore, whose basalt slopes carry the best vineyards on Lake Balaton. The volcanic soil and lake climate produce wines of exceptional minerality — especially the Olaszrizling (Welschriesling) and the Kéknyelű (an indigenous grape variety) are outstanding. The wine terraces on the slopes offer tastings with lake views — a glass of wine from 400–800 HUF (1–2€).
At the summit of Badacsony (438 m, about 1.5h ascent) lies the Stone Sea (Kőtenger) — a surreal basalt column field reminiscent of a petrified forest. The view over Lake Balaton is worth the effort.
Balatonfüred — Elegance by the Lake
The oldest spa town on Lake Balaton: Since the 18th century, guests have come here for the carbonated healing springs. The Tagore Promenade along the lakeshore is the most beautiful promenade — named after the Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore, who came here for a cure and planted a linden tree in gratitude. Balatonfüred is also the sailing capital of Lake Balaton: Every July, the Blue-Ribbon Regatta takes place, the oldest sailing regatta on inland waters in Europe (since 1934).
💡 Tipp
The best day plan on the northern shore: Explore Tihany in the morning (abbey, lavender lanes, Inner Lake), have Langos at the harbor for lunch, and in the afternoon, drive to Badacsony to enjoy the sunset with a glass of Olaszrizling on a wine terrace. A perfect day.
