Somogy County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture and customs of Somogy County, Hungary with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Somogy County

Somogy County is situated in Southern Transdanubia, Hungary, and is a rural county known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and friendly locals. The county is a popular destination among travelers who love to explore scenic countryside, genuine rural lifestyle, and experience local festivals and traditions.

In this comprehensive travel guide to Somogy County, we will take you through the must-visit places, the best things to do, the local culture and customs, and everything else you need to know for planning a memorable trip to this beautiful part of Hungary.

List of Places to Visit in Somogy County

Somogy County has a diversity of attractions to explore, ranging from historical landmarks, cultural and natural attractions, and many more. Here are some of the top places to visit in Somogy County.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kaposvár Rippl-Rónai Museum – This museum exhibits the works of the local-born artist József Rippl-Rónai, who was a major figure of Hungarian art history.
  • Csiky Gergely Theatre – A charming theatre that hosts both classic and contemporary productions.
  • Festetics Castle – A magnificent historical castle in Keszthely, with elegant architecture, beautiful gardens, and a rich collection of art and antiques.
  • St. Michael’s Cathedral of Városlőd – A stunning neo-gothic church with intricate details and impressive stained-glass windows.

Natural Attractions of Somogy County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Balaton – Visit the largest lake in Central Europe and enjoy water sports, relaxing on beaches, and exploring the charming coastal towns.
  • Kis-Balaton – A protected wetland area with rich biodiversity and world-famous bird watching opportunities.
  • Somogy Hills – A hilly area with lush green forests, crystal-clear streams, and fantastic hiking and biking routes.
  • Tapolca Cave Bath – Thermal baths situated in a naturally formed cave system that provides a unique and relaxing experience.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Somogy County

Somogy County has a diverse landscape that offers many opportunities to explore the countryside on foot or by bike. Here are some of the best routes for hiking and biking.

  • The Little Balaton tour – A 35 km long bike route with stunning landscapes and opportunities to spot rare bird species.
  • Kaposvár Arboretum – An extensive park with more than 400 species of trees and plants and many walking trails.
  • Somogyvámos to Nagybajom – A well-marked hiking trail that passes through forested hills, traditional villages, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Somogy County: Activities and Tours

Apart from exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region, Somogy County offers many exciting activities, tours, and experiences. Here are some of the must-do things in Somogy County:

  • Participate in traditional festivals and events – Somogy County is famous for its lively festivals, including the Kaposvár Horse Racing Days, the Fishermen’s Festival in Balatonfenyves, the Busó Festival in Mohács, and many more.
  • Taste local wines – Somogy County is part of the Balaton wine region, which produces some excellent white and red wines. Visit local wineries and wine cellars for wine tasting and to learn the history of wine production.
  • Relax in thermal baths – Several thermal baths in Somogy County, including the Hévíz Thermal Lake and Tapolca Cave Bath, offer an opportunity to unwind and enjoy the healing properties of warm mineral-rich waters.
  • Visit local markets – Explore the region’s markets, such as the Keszthely Farmers Market or Kaposvár Farmers Market, to buy fresh produce, artisanal products, and souvenirs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Somogy County

Here’s a recommended itinerary for a week-long trip to Somogy County:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Kaposvár and explore the town
Day 2 Visit Kaposvár Rippl-Rónai Museum
Day 3 Bike tour of Little Balaton
Day 4 Visit Festetics Castle in Keszthely
Day 5 Relax in the Hévíz Thermal Lake
Day 6 Visit Tapolca Cave Bath and hike in Somogy Hills
Day 7 Depart from Somogy County

Food and Drink Scene of Somogy County

Hungarian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, and Somogy County is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Somogy County:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pörkölt – A stew made with tender meats, onions, and a variety of spices.
  • Gulyás – Hungarian beef soup or stew with vegetables and paprika.
  • Halászlé – A spicy fish soup made with freshwater fish and paprika.
  • Pogácsa – Round-shaped savory pastries made with cheese, sour cream, and pork cracklings.

Local Beverages

  • Wine – Somogy County is famous for producing quality white and red wines, such as Olaszrizling, Chardonnay, Kékfrankos, and Cabernet Franc.
  • Pálinka – Hungarian fruit brandy made from various fruits like apricots, plums, and cherries.
  • Fröccs – Hungarian wine spritzer typically made with soda water.

Where to Stay in Somogy County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Somogy County has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels, cozy guesthouses to luxury hotels.

  • Kaposvár: Grand Hotel Balneo
  • Balatonfenyves: Club Tihany
  • Keszthely: Hotel Helikon
  • Tapolca: Hotel Gabriella

What to Buy in Somogy County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Hand-painted ceramics – Local artisans craft colorful ceramics with traditional Hungarian patterns and motifs.
  • Embroidery – Hungarian embroidery is famous for its folk-like motifs and intricate designs. You can find embroidered textiles like tablecloths, napkins, and scarves.
  • Paprika – Hungarian paprika is known for its bold flavor and can be used in many dishes.
  • Wine and Pálinka – Wine and Pálinka are popular gifts for those who appreciate a nice drink.

Local Culture and Customs of Somogy County

Somogy County has a rich cultural heritage and traditions. Here are some customs and habits you should know:

  • Hungarian language – While many locals speak some English, it’s always appreciated to learn a few Hungarian words and phrases to show your respect for the local culture.
  • Clothing – Hungary has a casual dress code but dress appropriately for local events and establishments.
  • Greeting – Handshakes are common in Hungary when meeting new people, and it’s customary to say hello and goodbye when entering and leaving a room.
  • Tipping – Tipping is a common practice in Hungarian restaurants and cafes. A 10% tip is standard.

Best Time to Visit Somogy County

Somogy County has a mild climate with warm summers and relatively mild winters. The best time to visit Somogy County is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and there are lots of festivals and outdoor events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Somogy County

Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Somogy County:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions and be open to new experiences.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Shop at local markets and support local businesses.
  • Hike and bike in the beautiful natural areas.

Don’t:

  • Ignore dress codes in religious places.
  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Talk loudly in public places.

Safety and Health

Somogy County is a safe and friendly place to visit. Here is some important information about safety and health in the region:

Safety in Somogy County

  • Stay cautious when driving, follow local traffic rules and signs.
  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • Stay warm and dry while hiking and biking in natural areas to avoid hypothermia.

Health in Somogy County

  • Tap water is generally safe to drink in Somogy County.
  • Hospitals and pharmacies are available in major towns and cities.
  • Make sure you have travel insurance before you visit Somogy County.

Getting to Somogy County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Somogy County is easily reachable by private car, bus, or train. Here are some transportation options and logistics for getting to Somogy County:

Airports Near Somogy County

  • Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) – About 200 km from Somogy County.
  • Hévíz–Balaton Airport (Sármellék) (SOB) - About 30 km from Keszthely.

Bus Stations Near Somogy County

  • Kaposvár Bus Station
  • Siófok Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train – There are train stations in Kaposvár, Keszthely, and Siófok.
  • Car – Renting a car is a great option for exploring the countryside and roads in Somogy County.

How to Get Around in Somogy County

Public transportation is limited in Somogy County, making a car or bike rental a good option for getting around. Taxis are available, but they can be costly.

Where to Go Next from Somogy County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Pécs – A charming university town with a fascinating history and vibrant cultural scene, about an hour’s drive from Kaposvár.
  • Balatonfüred – A lovely resort town on the north shore of Lake Balaton, with plenty of cultural and natural attractions.
  • Budapest – The capital city of Hungary with stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and a rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Somogy County is a hidden gem in Hungary that offers diverse natural, cultural, and culinary experiences. With this comprehensive travel guide, you have everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Somogy County. Whether you want to relax by the lake, explore cultural landmarks, or taste traditional dishes, Somogy County has something for everyone.