Zala County Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Zala County with our comprehensive guide. Find information on places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, and much more.


Introduction to Zala County

Zala County is a beautiful region in Western Transdanubia, Hungary. Bordering Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia, this county boasts of magnificent natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant local traditions. The area is home to diverse flora and fauna, ancient castles, thermal baths, and picturesque villages that are waiting to be explored.

List of Places to Visit in Zala County

Here is a list of must-visit places in Zala County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Festetics Castle in Keszthely
  • Zalaegerszeg County Museum
  • Sümeg Castle
  • Tapolca Lake Cave
  • Minorite Church and Monastery in Zalaegerszeg
  • Balatonederics Stone Quarry and Nature Park

Natural Attractions of Zala County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Balaton
  • Balaton-Highland National Park
  • Keszthely Hills
  • Kis-Balaton Nature Reserve in Zalavár
  • Zala Hills
  • Zala River

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zala County

Zala County has many hiking and biking routes that provide an opportunity to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty up close. Some of the best routes in the area include:

  • Komló Mountain footpath
  • Balaton Uplands National Park trails
  • Keszthely Hills tour
  • Kis-Balaton Nature Reserve boardwalk and lookout tower
  • Zala Hills hiking trail

Best Things to Do in Zala County: Activities and Tours

  • Relax and rejuvenate in the thermal baths and spas in Hévíz, Zalakaros, and Kehida.
  • Visit the Festetics Castle and its beautiful gardens in Keszthely.
  • Explore the mysterious Tapolca Lake Cave.
  • Take a boat tour on Lake Balaton.
  • Enjoy the wildlife at Kis-Balaton Nature Reserve.
  • Attend one of the many festivals like the Zala Expo, Borfalu (Wine Festival), and the Kossuth Days.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zala County

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for your trip to Zala County:

Day 1: Arrive in the spa town of Hévíz for a relaxing day at the thermal baths.

Day 2: Visit the Balaton Uplands National Park and hike the trails.

Day 3: Explore the Kis-Balaton Nature Reserve and take a boat tour.

Day 4: Tour the Festetics Castle in Keszthely and its beautiful gardens.

Day 5: Take a bike tour of the Keszthely Hills.

Day 6: Visit the Tapolca Lake Cave and relax in the nearby spas.

Day 7: Attend a festival in the region and experience the local culture and traditions.

Food and Drink Scene of Zala County

Hungarian cuisine is known for its hearty meals and flavorful spices, and Zala County is no exception. Here’s a list of must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gulyás (Goulash)
  • Halászlé (Fisherman’s soup)
  • Pörkölt (Stew)
  • Lecsó (Vegetable stew)
  • Rántott Hús (Breaded meat)
  • Túrós Csusza (Pasta with curd)

Local Beverages

  • Wine from the Badacsony wine region
  • Pálinka (Hungarian fruit brandy)
  • Unicum (Herbal liqueur)

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

Zala County offers various accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the area include:

  • Lotus Therme Hotel and Spa in Hévíz
  • Hunguest Hotel Helios in Keszthely
  • The Forest of Venice in Zalaszántó
  • Vadvirágos Vendégház in Sümeg
  • Anna Grand Hotel Wine&Vital in Balatonfüred

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

Zala County is known for its exceptional local crafts and products. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Pottery and ceramic products from the village of Magyarszerdahely.
  • Traditional embroidery from Zalaszántó.
  • Handmade soaps and creams from Hévíz and Kehida.
  • Honey and beeswax products from the Zala Hills.
  • Badacsony wines.

Local Culture and Customs of Zala County

Zala County’s local traditions are deeply ingrained in its history, and many of these customs are still being practiced today. These customs include:

  • Leathercrafting
  • Pottery and ceramics
  • Embroidery
  • Winemaking
  • Horse breeding and equestrian shows

Best Time to Visit Zala County

The best time to visit Zala County is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild and pleasant for outdoor activities. The months from May to September are ideal for exploring the region’s natural scenery and attending its many festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zala County

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your trip to Zala County:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Carry cash as some places do not accept credit cards.
  • Explore the area’s natural scenery and outdoor attractions.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect religious sites and symbols.
  • Litter or pollute the environment.
  • Ignore safety precautions when hiking or biking.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zala County

Zala County is relatively safe for travelers, and crime rates are low. However, visitors should always exercise caution and keep an eye on their belongings, especially in tourist areas.

Health in Zala County

Zala County has high-quality medical facilities, and pharmacies are readily available in most towns. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and to take necessary precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses.

Getting to Zala County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Zala County

  • Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)
  • Graz Airport (GRZ)
  • Zagreb Airport (ZAG)

Bus Stations Near Zala County

  • Keszthely Bus Station
  • Zalaegerszeg Bus Station
  • Nagykanizsa Bus Station

Other Options

  • Renting a car is a great way to explore the region at your own pace.
  • Taking a train from Budapest to Keszthely or Nagykanizsa is another option.

How to Get Around in Zala County

The best way to get around Zala County is by car, especially if you plan to explore rural areas and go hiking or biking. There are also public transportation options available, such as buses and trains, but these may not be as frequent or convenient.

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

Zala County is surrounded by many other stunning destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some nearby excursions:

  • Pécs
  • Graz, Austria
  • Ljubljana, Slovenia
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
  • Lake Bled, Slovenia

Conclusion

Zala County is a hidden gem in Hungary, offering travelers a unique and authentic experience of the country’s scenic beauty and rich culture. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, historical sites, or local traditions, Zala County has something to offer every type of traveler. Plan your trip today and discover the best of what this region has to offer.



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