Discover Keszthely: Charming Private Walking Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Skip the crowds this is a private tour for your group only! Together with a professional guide, you will visit the most charming places in the city. Why Festetics Castle is one of the most known buildings of Keszthely? You will have a chance to explore the city while hearing fascinating facts and legends. You will be surprised how many stories are hidden in the streets, buildings, and corners of Keszthely. Your charming guide will tell you what is special and unique about living in this city. Perfect for those who are visiting the city for the first time and want to get the most out of it!
Available options
Discover Keszthely: Charming Private Walking Tour
What's included
Local Professional Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
The Festetics Palace is a Baroque palace whose construction began in 1745 and lasted more than a century. During this period, the palace, which was first erected on the foundations of a destroyed castle, was tripled in size in two consecutive building projects, most recently in the 1880s, following plans by Vienna-based architect Viktor Rumpelmayer. After Rumpelmayer's death in 1885, the construction was completed by architects Gusztáv Haas and Miksa Paschkisch. The result is one of Hungary's three largest country mansions, which today houses the Helikon Palace Museum.
2
The Our Lady of Hungary Church, commonly known as the Gothic Church, was built in 1390 and is the city's oldest structure. The church is divided into three sections towards the equinoctial east: the Neo-gothic 19th-century tower and porch, the nave, and the sanctuary enclosed by three sides of the octagon. The monastery, cloisters, and sacristy connect to the church from the north, while St. Anne Chapel connects from the south.
3
The earliest and currently only "official" museum of Lake Balaton displays the "Hungarian Sea's" most important natural and cultural qualities. The archaeological collection of rpád Csák was shown at the old Economy Learning Center building. The natural science department was established, the library expanded, and János Sági built the groundwork for the ethnography department. Special museum-pedagogical programs and cultural specialities are continually renewed for adult visitors, as are temporary exhibitions and cultural specialties. The idea of building a museum in the Balaton region originally arose in the latter decade of the nineteenth century, and the Balaton Museum Union was created in June 1897.
4
Keszthely Municipal Beach, also known as The Szigetfürd és Városi Strand, is located immediately close to the harbor and is the city's main beach. The series of souvenir pavilions comes to an end here, and travelers frequently stop here for refreshments, making this the epicenter of the Keszthely district. If you want to go back in time, visit the freshly rebuilt island bath, the only one left on Lake Balaton, which will transport you to the turn-of-the-century.
What's not included
Festetics Palace Admission Fees
Balaton Museum Admission Fees
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
HU
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
near the main entrance
About Lake Balaton
Lake Balaton is the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe, known for its stunning landscapes, thermal baths, and vibrant cultural scene. It's a popular holiday destination offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and historical exploration.
Top Attractions
Tihany Abbey
A Benedictine abbey founded in 1055, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. The abbey is a major cultural and historical landmark of Lake Balaton.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate (approximately 2,000 HUF or 6 EUR)
Balatonfüred
A charming resort town known as the 'Pearl of Lake Balaton'. It offers a mix of historical sites, thermal baths, and vibrant cultural life.
Cultural
Full day
Moderate to expensive (depending on activities)
Hévíz Lake
The world's largest thermal lake, known for its healing properties. The warm, mineral-rich water is perfect for relaxation and therapeutic treatments.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate to expensive (entry fees and spa treatments)
Badacsony Hill
A volcanic hill offering stunning panoramic views of Lake Balaton. It's a popular spot for hiking and wine tasting, with numerous vineyards at its base.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free (wine tasting may incur additional costs)
Siófok Beach
One of the most popular beaches on Lake Balaton, known for its vibrant atmosphere, water sports, and nightlife. It's a great spot for families and young travelers alike.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free (rentals and activities may incur additional costs)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Balaton Fish Soup (Balatoni Halászlé)
A spicy fish soup made with fresh fish from Lake Balaton, typically served with bread or noodles.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish and spicy ingredients.
Langos
A deep-fried dough topped with sour cream, garlic, and cheese, a popular street food in Hungary.
Snack
Vegetarian (check for dairy if lactose intolerant).
Lángos
A deep-fried dough topped with sour cream, garlic, and cheese, a popular street food in Hungary.
Snack
Vegetarian (check for dairy if lactose intolerant).
Töltött Káposzta
Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of minced pork and rice, served with sour cream and bread.
Dinner
Contains pork and dairy.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Badacsony Hill
Water sports at Siófok Beach
Spa treatments at Hévíz Lake
Sunbathing and swimming at Balatonfüred Beach
Visiting Tihany Abbey
Exploring Festetics Palace and Gardens
Swimming and boating in Lake Balaton
Fishing and water sports
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the busiest time with warm weather perfect for swimming, boating, and outdoor activities. The lake is at its most vibrant with numerous festivals and events.
20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Hungarian
- Widely spoken: English, German
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Hungarian Forint (HUF)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lake Balaton is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services to avoid overcharging.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night, and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
Getting there
By air
- Balaton Airport (SOB) • 5 km (3 miles) from Siófok
- Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) • 120 km (75 miles) from Lake Balaton
By train
Keszthely, Siófok
By bus
Budapest Népliget Bus Station, Budapest Árpád Bridge Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are frequent and reliable. Tickets can be purchased on board or at local kiosks.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Balatonfüred
Siófok
Keszthely
Tihany
Day trips
Badacsony Hill and Vineyards
20 km (12 miles) from Balatonfüred • Half day to full day
Explore the volcanic hill of Badacsony and its surrounding vineyards, offering stunning panoramic views and excellent wine tasting opportunities.
Hévíz Lake and Spa
15 km (9 miles) from Keszthely • Half day to full day
Visit the world's largest thermal lake, known for its healing properties. Relax in the warm, mineral-rich water and enjoy the beautiful park surrounding the lake.
Siófok Beach and Nightlife
Central location on the south shore • Half day to full day
Enjoy a day at one of the most popular beaches on Lake Balaton, known for its vibrant atmosphere, water sports, and nightlife.
Festivals
Balaton Sound Festival • Early July
Balaton Film Festival • September
Tihany Wine Festival • Late August to early September
Pro tips
- Visit the local wineries and vineyards for a taste of the region's excellent wines.
- Explore the lesser-known towns and villages around the lake for a more authentic experience.
- Take a boat tour or ferry ride to see the lake from a different perspective.
- Attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.
- Learn a few basic Hungarian phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for their language.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
