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How to Get to Lake Balaton

Air Travel

Major Airports

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is Hungary’s largest and busiest international airport.

Bud & Hzkb

  • BUD is approximately 120-160 from Lake Balaton.
  • Balaton Airport (HZKB) near Keszthely handles some charter flights, largely from Europe.
  • HZKB is not suitable for most direct international arrivals from outside Europe.

Airlines & Routes BUD

BUD offers connections to numerous destinations with large and low-budget airlines.

Carrier Types

  • Major Carriers: Lufthansa, France's National airline, KLM, British Airways, Qatar Airways, Emirates.
  • Low-Cost Carriers: Ryanair, A Low-cost european airline, easyJet from many European cities.
  • Usual Routes: Direct flights are common from large Cities in europe.

Flight Availability

Flights to Budapest operate year-round, with top rates in summer and holidays.

Seasonal Fluctuations

Booking well in advance for peak periods often ensures lower rates.

Airport Facilities BUD

BUD offers free Wi-Fi, shops, restaurants, car rental desks, currency exchange.

Airport Transfers to Balaton

From BUD

  • Train: Bus 100E (or 200E + Metro 3) to Budapest stations, then direct train.
  • Bus: Volánbusz intercity, generally less direct from airport than train.
  • Shared Shuttle/Private Transfer: Direct door-to-door, convenient for groups.
  • Car Rental: Desks at BUD. Driving via M7 motorway is straightforward.

From HZKB

  • Taxis: Readily available for nearby towns like Hévíz and Keszthely.
  • Pre-booked transfers: Arrange in advance for convenience.
  • Local buses: Connect the airport to regional towns.
  • Options typically sufficient for the limited number of arrivals at HZKB.

Connecting Flights & Layover

Direct Flights

Most direct flights connect Budapest with other Countries in europe cities.

Transatlantic Travel

Travelers from North America, Asia, or other continents prepare for a layover in a major European gateway airport.

Connecting Hubs

These hubs offer numerous layover flights to Budapest throughout the day.

Land Transportation

Train Travel

MÁV-START, the Hungarian State Railways, operates the rail system.

Train Details

  • Frequent trains from Budapest (Déli or Nyugati) to Balaton towns.
  • Major lines serve Siófok, Balatonfüred, Keszthely, and smaller resort towns.
  • Book online via MÁV-START website/app or at stations; recommend booking beforehand for the high season.

Bus Travel

Volánbusz, the National Bus Company, manages the long-distance bus network.

Bus Details

  • Connects Budapest and other major cities to towns by The lake Balaton.
  • Buses reach smaller villages not on train lines, offering an extensive regional network.
  • Buy tickets online through Volánbusz site or at bus stations.

Self-Driving Requirements

Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring the Balaton region at your own pace.

Driving Requirements

  • Valid driving license from home country. IDP needed if license not in English or Roman alphabet.
  • Major credit card for security deposit.
  • Highway vignette (e-vignette) for motorways. Purchase online, at borders, or petrol stations.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main roads and highways, like the M7 motorway leading to Balaton, are generally well-maintained.

Driving Safety

  • Hungarian drivers sometimes exhibit aggressive behavior; be a defensive driver.
  • Speed limits: 50 kilometers per hour in urban areas, 90 main, 110 express, 130 motorways.
  • Zero-tolerance policy for alcohol while driving; headlights on in the countryside.

Border Crossing Information

  • Hungary is part of the Schengen Area.
  • No formal border controls when traveling from another Schengen country.
  • Standard ID or passport inspection may occur at external Schengen borders.
  • Always carry your valid passport or national ID card.
  • Roads around the lake can be congested during peak summer months.
  • Plan for potential delays during busy periods.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures Airport

No departure taxes apply are imposed as you leave Hungary for tourists.

Airport Departure BUD

  • Get THERE two-3 hours before scheduled flight for check-in and security.
  • Allow ample time for bag check, security, and passport control.
  • Allow extra time during peak season or for early morning flights.

Departure Procedures Stations

The price of your airline ticket commonly comprises any relevant charges.

Train/Bus Station Departure

  • Arrive at least 15-30 a few minutes before it's due to leave.
  • Locate your platform or bus stop well in advance.
  • Board comfortably with sufficient time.

BUD Airport Facilities

Check-in desks, luggage drop-off, security, passport control, duty-free shops, lounges.

Station Amenities

Smaller public transport by rail and bus stations offer simple waiting areas and ticket counters.

Sea/River Travel

Hungary is landlocked; sea or river arrivals are not relevant for international entry.

Traveler Tip:

When self-driving, remember Hungary's zero-tolerance policy for alcohol and that headlights must remain on outside urban areas, even during daylight hours.