Keszthely Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and naturally stunning Keszthely through this comprehensive travel guide. Get information on places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local customs, safety, transportation, and more.


Introduction to Keszthely

Located in the western part of Hungary, Keszthely is a charming town nestled along the shores of Lake Balaton. Rich in history and natural beauty, Keszthely is replete with cultural sites, scenic views, and a range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums, hiking or biking, trying delicious Hungarian food, or simply soaking in the beauty of the lake, Keszthely has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Keszthely

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Festetics Palace

This 18th-century palace is one of the top cultural sites in Keszthely. With over 101 rooms and a beautiful garden, it is an experience you won’t want to miss. Visitors can walk through opulent rooms decked out in historic paintings, antiques, and furnishings. There’s even a carriage museum and a hunting museum located on the palace grounds. Its ornate beauty attracts a lot of visitors, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Helikon Castle Museum

Located close to the Festetics Palace, Helikon Castle Museum is another must-visit cultural attraction in Keszthely. The museum is home to extensive collections of archaeological artifacts, paintings, and documents covering Hungary’s rich history. The castle itself is a wonder, with impressive architecture, gardens, and courtyards. Don’t forget to climb up to the tower for a stunning view of the lake.

Natural Attractions of Keszthely: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Keszthely Hills

Keszthely hills are a breathtaking natural site located in the northeastern part of the city. It offers excellent hiking and biking trails with stunning views of Lake Balaton. This is an ideal area for nature lovers who want to experience the great outdoors in a serene setting.

Balaton Uplands National Park

A favorite destination for nature lovers around Hungary, the Balaton Uplands National Park is an iconic spot that is not to be missed. The park extends over an area of 57 square kilometers and encompasses the Keszthely Hills. The park has a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as significant geological features.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Keszthely

For outdoor enthusiasts, Keszthely has meandering trails that are perfect for hiking, biking and exploring. The Keszthely Hills and Balaton Uplands National Park offer an array of challenging and recreational hikes, with thick foliage and various trails that lead to stunning viewpoints and scenic locations.

Best Things to Do in Keszthely: Activities and Tours

Water Sports

Lake Balaton, the largest lake in Central Europe, is a popular destination for water enthusiasts. Those interested in water sports activities can engage in various water sports such as sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing.

Wine Tasting

Hungary’s wine culture has a rich history, and Keszthely is no exception. Visit the surrounding vineyards like Balatonederics to indulge in a range of local Hungarian wines. Wineries offer wine tastings and tours, allowing you to experience the wine culture firsthand.

Week-Long Itinerary for Keszthely

Keszthely has it all - cultural sites, natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and excellent food. Here’s a week-long itinerary suggestion:

Day 1 – Arrive in Keszthely and explore the Festetics Palace. Day 2 – Visit the Helikon Castle Museum and the Armory in the morning and take a stroll around Lake Balaton in the evening. Day 3 – Spend the day hiking up to the Keszthely Hills and admire the stunning views of the lake. Day 4 – Explore the Balaton Uplands National Park and indulge in some local cuisine. Day 5 – Go wine tasting in Balatonederics and learn about the wine culture. Day 6 – Try water sports activities at Lake Balaton and enjoy the calm and beauty of the water. Day 7 – Spend the last day relaxing at the local spa, Hévíz thermal lake complex.

Food and Drink Scene of Keszthely

Must-Try Dishes

Keszthely has a range of delicious Hungarian cuisine options. Must-try dishes include:

Halászlé (Fisherman’s soup)

An authentic Hungarian dish made with various types of fish, onions, and Hungarian paprika.

Hortobágyi Palacsinta

A savory Hungarian crepe filled with hearty meat stew.

Gulyás (Goulash)

A hearty stew made with beef, onions, and paprika.

Local Beverages

Hungary is famous for its wine, and Keszthely is no exception. Embark on a wine tour or have a glass of the popular Hungarian wine varietals - Egri Bikavér and Tokaji Aszú. Also, try Hungarian Pálinka, a fruit brandy that is perfect served after dinner.

Where to Stay in Keszthely: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Keszthely has several accommodation options ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some of the hotels close to the city center include Hotel Helikon and Hullam Villa. For hostels and budget-friendly options, check out Camping Naturist Park in Zalavár and Central Hostel.

What to Buy in Keszthely: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Local handicrafts and food products are some popular souvenirs in Keszthely. Check out the weekly farmers’ market for fresh produce, cheese, artisanal bread, and locally made honey. For unique handmade items, head to the local craft stores and pick up items like pottery and handcrafted jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Keszthely

Hungarian culture, customs, and traditions are deeply rooted in Keszthely. Respect their customs and way of life, and remember to greet people with a “Szia” (hello) and “Kérem” (please) while making requests or buying something.

Best Time to Visit Keszthely

The best time to visit Keszthely is from May to September when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities thrive.

Do’s and Don’ts of Keszthely

Do:

  • Try local cuisine and indulge in Hungarian wines.
  • Explore the natural beauty of Lake Balaton and the surrounding hills.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to carry cash, as not all places accept credit or debit cards.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural surroundings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Keszthely

Keszthely is a relatively safe town. However, it is always essential to be aware of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded places.

Health in Keszthely

For any medical emergencies, there is a hospital in Keszthely, and a few pharmacies around the town.

Getting to Keszthely: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Keszthely

The nearest airports to Keszthely are Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), which is approximately 200 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Keszthely

Buses run frequently to Keszthely from Budapest and some of the major Hungarian cities.

Other Options

Renting a car or bike is an excellent way to explore Keszthely and the surrounding countryside.

How to Get Around in Keszthely

Keszthely is relatively small and easily walkable. However, for getting around faster, taking the local buses or cycling is a good option.

Where to Go Next from Keszthely: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hévíz

Located just a few kilometers away from Keszthely, Hévíz is a thermal spa town famous for its geothermal lake, Heviz Thermal Lake complex.

Tapolca

Tapolca is a small town located about 10 kilometers from Keszthely, famous for its cave system, which is open to visitors.

Conclusion

Keszthely is a town that offers something for everyone. Whether it’s exploring history, soaking in nature’s beauty, trying local cuisine, or indulging in water sports, there’s always something to do. Visit Keszthely to experience the Hungarian culture and discover what makes this small town so unique.

The Main Square from the air The Main Square from the air Nostalgic boat Nostalgic boat "Hableány" at Keszthely Port Balaton cycling route near Keszthely Balaton cycling route near Keszthely Festetics Palace Gate Festetics Palace Gate Festetics Palace from the air Festetics Palace from the air Hall in the Festetics Palace Hall in the Festetics Palace Helikon Library of the Festetics Palace Helikon Library of the Festetics Palace Main Square with the Holy Trinity Column and the Town Hall Main Square with the Holy Trinity Column and the Town Hall Bimah of the Synagogue Bimah of the Synagogue Festetics Palace Festetics Palace Old coach in the Coach Exhibition at the Helikon Palace Museum Old coach in the Coach Exhibition at the Helikon Palace Museum Main Square with the Neo-Gothic Church Main Square with the Neo-Gothic Church A street in the historical town centre A street in the historical town centre Statue of György Festetics in the Palace Garden Statue of György Festetics in the Palace Garden The model 45 Packard 110 from the year 1941, in the Coach Exhibition at the Helikon Palace Museum The model 45 Packard 110 from the year 1941, in the Coach Exhibition at the Helikon Palace Museum Town centre Town centre Town centre Town centre Town centre Town centre Town centre Town centre View to the Festetics Palace from the Palace Garden View to the Festetics Palace from the Palace Garden Town centre Town centre Panorama of the Main Square Panorama of the Main Square Island Bath within Town Beach Island Bath within Town Beach Lake Balaton at Keszthely Lake Balaton at Keszthely