Things To Do
in Keszthely

Keszthely is a charming town located on the western shore of Lake Balaton in Hungary. Known for its rich history and beautiful architecture, it serves as a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The town features stunning parks, historic buildings, and a lively waterfront promenade.

Keszthely is also home to the impressive Festetics Palace, which showcases the town's noble past.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Keszthely
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Festetics Palace, exploring its beautiful gardens and museum.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café before taking a stroll along the lakeside promenade, visiting the local shops.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Hungarian restaurant and then catch the sunset by the lake.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning walk in the nearby Helikon Park and enjoy the natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Visit the Balaton Museum to learn about the region's maritime history and culture.

evening
:

End your trip with a relaxing dinner at a lakeside restaurant, followed by drinks at a local bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$10-$20
🍺Local Beer$2-$5
Coffee$2-$4
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1
🏨Hotel Night$50-$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful lakeside location
  • Rich history and culture
  • Variety of outdoor activities available
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Can be crowded in summer
  • Some attractions may have limited hours in winter
  • "Kérem" - Please
  • "Köszönöm" - Thank you
  • "Hol van a WC?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Mennyibe kerül?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Beszél angolul?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Keszthely

Visit one of these nice places.

Festetics Palace

The stunning architecture and beautiful gardens make this a perfect spot for photography.

Lake Balaton

The picturesque lakeshore provides a breathtaking backdrop, especially at sunset.

Helikon Park

The lush greenery and sculptures in the park create a serene atmosphere for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Keszthely

Keszthely offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Hungarian dishes and modern cuisine.

Keszthely Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gulyás

A hearty Hungarian goulash made with beef, vegetables, and paprika.

Must-Try!

Hortobágyi palacsinta

Savory pancakes filled with meat, served with a creamy sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Keszthely Market

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offering chimney cakes, grilled sausages, and Langos.

Climate Guide

Weather

Keszthely experiences a temperate climate. Summers are warm, with average temperatures around 25-30°C (77-86°F), perfect for beach activities. Winters can be cold, with temperatures ranging from -5 to 5°C (23-41°F), and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild, making these seasons ideal for outdoor exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating.

Respect for Traditions

Be mindful of cultural traditions, especially during local festivals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Keszthely is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to remain vigilant in crowded areas and safeguard personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Keszthely

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and cafes.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists; beaches and water activities are in full swing.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and fall foliage create a picturesque setting for walks.

Winter

Cold weather; some attractions may be closed, but the town offers a cozy atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Keszthely at Night

Keszthely has a laid-back nightlife scene with a variety of bars and pubs along the waterfront. Many places offer live music, especially during the summer months. You can enjoy a relaxed evening with local wines and traditional drinks while socializing with locals and tourists alike.

Hiking in Keszthely

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Keszthely Mountain Trail

A scenic hiking trail offering stunning views of Lake Balaton and the surrounding countryside.

Balaton Highland Trail

A more challenging trail that takes you through beautiful landscapes and vineyards.

Airports

How to reach Keszthely by plane.

FlyBalaton Airport

Located about 15 km from Keszthely, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Keszthely is a highly walkable town, with most attractions located within a short walking distance from each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to explore shops, cafes, and parks easily. Walking along the lakeshore promenade is particularly pleasant.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population is primarily Hungarian, with a mix of older generations and young families.

Tourists

During the summer months, the town sees a significant influx of tourists from both Hungary and abroad.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely popular in Hungary, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Water Sports

Given its location by Lake Balaton, activities like sailing and kayaking are favored.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Keszthely is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, with services running regularly. Walking and cycling are great alternatives within the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Keszthely.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask.

Gluten-Free Options

Some places cater to gluten-free diets, but selection may be limited.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Keszthely are adequate, with a local hospital and several clinics available. Emergency services can be accessed by calling 112. It is recommended for travelers to have travel insurance that covers health services.

Discover Hungary

Read more in our Hungary 2025 Travel Guide.

Hungary Travel Guide