KESZTHELY

The Cultural Capital of Lake Balaton

Located just 6 km from Hévíz, Keszthely is a beautiful lakeside town rich in history, culture, and vibrant local life. Known as the “Capital of Lake Balaton,” Keszthely blends baroque architecture, museums, beaches, and waterfront charm into one unforgettable destination.

Whether you're coming for a day trip or a longer lakeside holiday, Keszthely offers something for everyone.

FESTETICS PALACE
A Baroque Jewel

The crown jewel of Keszthely is the magnificent Festetics Palace, one of Hungary’s most beautiful and best-preserved baroque palaces. Built in the 18th century and expanded over time, it reflects the grandeur of the Festetics family, one of the country’s most influential noble lineages. The palace also houses a historic Helikon Library, showcasing thousands of rare books and manuscripts in its original setting, a true treasure for history and literature lovers.

What to see:

• Lavish 18th-century interiors and a historic library with over 80,000 volumes

• Helikon Palace Museum showcasing aristocratic life and carriages

• A romantic French-style garden with fountains and statues

• Seasonal events like concerts, wine nights, and light shows

It’s a must-visit for history lovers, photographers, and architecture enthusiasts alike.

LIFE BY THE LAKE
Balaton Beaches & Port

Keszthely has a unique position on the western shore of Lake Balaton, offering some of the most attractive public beaches and waterfront promenades in the region. Keszthely’s lakeside is one of the most popular parts of town, combining relaxation, family fun, and stunning scenery.

• Municipal Beach (Városi Strand) – A large, well-equipped beach with sandy areas, sunbeds, slides, playgrounds, and pools for children. It’s lively in summer, with cafés and beach bars adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

• Helikon Beach – A quieter alternative, perfect for those looking to relax by the water. It offers plenty of space for sunbathing, shady spots under trees, and calm waters for swimming.

• Water Sports & Activities – Rent a pedal boat, paddleboard, or kayak for a gentle adventure on Lake Balaton. More active visitors can try sailing or windsurfing.

• Scenic Promenade – The lakeside walkway is ideal for an evening stroll, with ice cream parlors, cafés, and benches facing the sunset over Balaton.

MUSEUMS

Keszthely is often called the “museum capital of Lake Balaton” thanks to its variety of unique and fascinating exhibitions.

• Balaton Museum – A must for anyone interested in the history and natural wonders of the region. It covers archaeology, fishing traditions, geology, and local life around Lake Balaton.

• Georgikon Farm Museum – Dedicated to Europe’s first agricultural college, founded here by Count György Festetics. Exhibits include farming tools, rural crafts, and demonstrations of traditional practices.

• Coach Museum – Displays an elegant collection of historic carriages, from royal coaches to practical vehicles used by the nobility.

• Hunting and Model Railway Museum - showcases Hungary’s hunting traditions alongside an impressive collection of detailed model trains and miniature landscapes.

• Surprising & Quirky Museums – Keszthely has a variety of small themed museums, such as the Erotic Renaissance Wax Museum, the Marzipan Museum, and toy exhibitions that are fun for families.

WHAT TO SEE
In the city of Keszthely

Beyond its palaces and museums, Keszthely’s historic streets and monuments invite exploration.

• Historic City Centre – Centered around Kossuth Lajos Street and Main Square, this lively area is full of cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops. It’s ideal for strolling and soaking up the small-town charm.

• Parish Church of Our Lady of Hungary – A Gothic-style church with remarkable frescoes, one of the oldest in the region.

• Synagogue – Built in 1852, it’s an important landmark of the Jewish heritage in Keszthely, beautifully restored in recent decades.

• Basilica of St. Theresa – A 20th-century basilica in Italian Romanesque style, offering a peaceful spiritual atmosphere.

• Fenekpuszta Roman Ruins – Just outside the city, this archaeological site preserves remains from Roman times, including fortifications and early Christian relics.

Gastronomy & Local Flavors

Keszthely is also a treat for the senses, where Balaton’s culinary traditions meet fine wines and modern gastronomy.

• Wine Culture – The surrounding region is known for its vineyards. The “Spicy of Cserszeg” (Cserszegi fűszeres), a white wine created nearby, has gained international recognition for its aromatic flavor. Local wineries often offer tastings.

• Farmers’ Market – Open regularly in the town center, it’s a showcase of local life. Visitors can find seasonal fruits, fresh bread, smoked sausages, honey, homemade cheeses, and pastries.

• Lakeside Dining – Many restaurants along the promenade specialize in Balaton fish dishes such as fried pike-perch, catfish stew, or the classic Hungarian fish soup (halászlé).

• Street Food & Festivals – Keszthely hosts food-related events throughout the year, where visitors can enjoy craft beers, artisan burgers, and creative takes on Hungarian cuisine.

• Cafés & Confectioneries – The city has a long tradition of patisseries. Be sure to try traditional cakes or rétes (strudel) with a coffee while people-watching in the town center.

• Cafés & Patisseries

  • Tulipán Kávéház

  • Pajti Coffeehouse

  • Korzó Café

  • Pálma Cukrászda

  • Jordanics Cukrászda

    
    

• Restaurants & Bistro Highlights

  • Vitorlás Bisztró

  • Tompos Étterem

  • Jóbarát Vendéglő

  • Park Vendéglő

  • Apetito Étterem

  • John’s Pub & Restaurant

  • Los Amigos Mexikói Étterem

  • Royal Keszthely

  • Halászcsárda

Flavors of Keszthely