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Tihany

Hungary · Peninsula · HUF · 46.910000, 17.890000
Family friendly 5.8/10 · Rank 1740 of 2 709
Best season: May-September (warm weather, swimming season)

Best for

For nature lovers, history, hiking and peaceful holidays

Best season

May-September (warm weather, swimming season)

Daily budget
$119.00 (≈ 9 986 ₽ · ≈ 42 840 HUF)
For 7 days
$833.00 (≈ 69 905 ₽ · ≈ 299 880 HUF)
Tihany is a scenic peninsula and its namesake village on the northern shore of Lake Balaton. The main attraction is the 11th-century Benedictine Abbey, offering a panoramic view of the lake. Tihany is famous for its lavender, unique nature, and traditional crafts.
Summer
29.0°C
Winter
-3.0°C
Sea
28.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Hospitable, friendly, nature-loving.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Beautiful views of Lake Balaton
  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Lavender fields
  • Peaceful atmosphere
  • Fewer tourists than the south shore

Cons

  • Limited nightlife
  • Limited infrastructure
  • Dangerous mud at the Inner Lake
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
22.8°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
26.6°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
29.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
0.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
3.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
-3.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
24.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
28.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
year-round, peak in summer
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
pebbles, sand, concrete and grass beaches
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
mild (lake)
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
moderate
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Tihany Sajkod, Magyar Strand
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
No
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
None
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Main danger is sticky clay mud at the Inner Lake (Belső-tó), which can trap people and caused fish deaths

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins are absent in Lake Balaton near the Tihany Peninsula, as it is a freshwater body unsuitable for marine species.
  • Swimming in the lake is safe regarding encounters with sea urchins.

Corals and reefs — details

  • There are no coral reefs in Lake Balaton near the Tihany Peninsula, as it is a freshwater body. Live corals are not found here.
  • The underwater world of the lake is represented by freshwater fish, including carp, pike, catfish and perch, as well as aquatic plants.

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish do not inhabit Lake Balaton near the Tihany Peninsula, as it is a freshwater body. Freshwater jellyfish have not been recorded here.
  • Swimming in the lake is safe regarding encounters with jellyfish.

Sharks — details

  • Sharks do not inhabit Lake Balaton near the Tihany Peninsula, as it is a freshwater body. The lake is home to carp, pike, catfish and other freshwater fish, but sharks are absent.
  • Swimming in the lake is completely safe regarding the risk of shark attacks.
Attractions

Tihany Benedictine Abbey

Baroque abbey complex on a hill with views over Lake Balaton, symbol of the peninsula.

Calvary Hill (Kálvária)

Short hiking trail up a hill with crosses and panoramic views.

Lavender Fields and Lavender House

Famous lavender fields of Tihany with souvenirs and lavender ice cream.

Skansen Tihany

Open-air ethnographic museum with traditional Hungarian houses.

Őrtorony Lookout Tower

Viewing tower with panoramic views of Lake Balaton and surroundings.

Inner Lake (Belső-tó)

Crater lake surrounded by forest with walking trails.

Best areas

Tihany Village

Historic village with the abbey, lavender fields and viewpoints.

Sajkod

Lakeside area with beaches and water access.

Must-try food

Fish Soup (Halászlé)

Famous Hungarian fish soup from Lake Balaton with paprika.

Lavender Ice Cream

Lavender-flavoured ice cream, a local speciality.

Hungarian Goulash

Traditional thick beef and paprika soup.

Túrós csusza

Homemade noodles with cottage cheese and cracklings.

Local Wine

Wines from the Balaton region, especially whites.

Where to go next

Balatonfüred

Resort town on Lake Balaton with beaches and vineyards, ~10 km.

Siófok

Large resort town on the south shore of Lake Balaton, ~20 km by ferry.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
low
Getting there
Nearest airports
Будапешт имени Ференца Листа (BUD).
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Visa
Visa requirements
required (Schengen)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
May-September (warm weather, swimming season)
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 9 000 HUF
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$72.00
≈ 6 042 ₽ · ≈ 25 920 HUF
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$127.00
≈ 10 658 ₽ · ≈ 45 720 HUF
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$200.00
≈ 16 784 ₽ · ≈ 72 000 HUF
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$150.00
≈ 12 588 ₽ · ≈ 54 000 HUF
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 28 800 HUF
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 4 320 HUF
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 10 800 HUF
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 1 260 HUF
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 1 440 HUF
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽ · ≈ 540 HUF
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$14.00
≈ 1 175 ₽ · ≈ 5 040 HUF
Burger
Average price for a burger
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 3 600 HUF
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 2 160 HUF
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 2 880 HUF
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$190.00
≈ 15 945 ₽ · ≈ 68 400 HUF
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽ · ≈ 540 HUF
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 2 880 HUF
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 12 600 HUF
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 4 320 HUF
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 9 000 HUF
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 14 400 HUF
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 25 200 HUF
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 18 000 HUF
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 5 400 HUF
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 5 400 HUF
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Frequently asked questions
Tihany: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is May-September (warm weather, swimming season). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Tihany: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +29.0°C, during the day — up to +26.6°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Tihany: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +-3.0°C, during the day — up to +3.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Tihany: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +28.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Tihany: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on year-round, peak in summer. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Tihany: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "pebbles, sand, concrete and grass beaches" surface, golden sand, moderate water. The most popular beaches: Tihany Sajkod, Magyar Strand. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Tihany: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry.
Tihany: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $119.00 (≈ 9 986 ₽ · ≈ 42 840 HUF) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Tihany: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $25.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $72.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $127.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $200.00 per night, an apartment — $80.00 per night, a villa — $150.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Tihany: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $12.00, dinner at a restaurant — $30.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.50, a 0.5L beer — $4.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Tihany: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $190.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.50, a short taxi ride — $8.00, car rental — $35.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Tihany: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Tihany Benedictine Abbey — Baroque abbey complex on a hill with views over Lake Balaton, symbol of the peninsula.; Calvary Hill (Kálvária) — Short hiking trail up a hill with crosses and panoramic views.; Lavender Fields and Lavender House — Famous lavender fields of Tihany with souvenirs and lavender ice cream.; Skansen Tihany — Open-air ethnographic museum with traditional Hungarian houses.; Őrtorony Lookout Tower — Viewing tower with panoramic views of Lake Balaton and surroundings.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Tihany: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Fish Soup (Halászlé) — Famous Hungarian fish soup from Lake Balaton with paprika.; Lavender Ice Cream — Lavender-flavoured ice cream, a local speciality.; Hungarian Goulash — Traditional thick beef and paprika soup.; Túrós csusza — Homemade noodles with cottage cheese and cracklings.; Local Wine — Wines from the Balaton region, especially whites.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Tihany: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Tihany Village — Historic village with the abbey, lavender fields and viewpoints.; Sajkod — Lakeside area with beaches and water access.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Tihany: is a visa required?
Visa: required (Schengen). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Tihany: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Будапешт имени Ференца Листа (code BUD). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $190.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Tihany: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — HUF. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $119.00 (≈ 9 986 ₽ · ≈ 42 840 HUF). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Tihany: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Tihany: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Tihany: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Balatonfüred — Resort town on Lake Balaton with beaches and vineyards, ~10 km.; Siófok — Large resort town on the south shore of Lake Balaton, ~20 km by ferry.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

5.8/10
Overall rank: 1740 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 1052