Private Trip from Budapest to Lake Balaton: Balatonfüred – Tihany – Siófok with an English-Speaking Driver

Duration: 12 hours
Type of tour: Private / Self-guided exploration
Includes: Professional English-speaking driver, private transportation, multiple sightseeing stops:
Balatonfüred – Tihany Peninsula – Siófok
Excludes: Guide services, Lunch, Entrance fees to attractions and museums (paid separately)
Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure

Number of participants:	Vehicle:	Price / Tour:
up to 2 people	Standard car	€ 320
up to 7 people	Standard Van	€ 380

The indicated maximum number of participants means that this tour is intended for a single booking (e.g., a family, a group of friends, or colleagues). You can be sure that your journey will be comfortable and private, tailored to your needs and schedule.

Experience the charm of Lake Balaton on a full-day private trip from Budapest! Travel at your own pace in a comfortable car or minivan with an English-speaking driver, who will make sure your journey is smooth and hassle-free.

This is your chance to explore the most beautiful spots along the lake, from Balatonfüred’s elegant promenade to the historic streets of Tihany and the lively waterfront of Siófok, all on your own schedule. Your driver won’t lead a full guided tour, but will happily share local tips, recommend the best places to eat or visit, and help you make the most of your day.

Perfect for travelers who love flexibility, independence, and discovering hidden gems while having reliable support along the way.

Trip Highlights

Stop 1: Balatonfüred

Stop 1: Balatonfüred

Balatonfüred is a charming lakeside town known for its historic spa resorts and promenade along Lake Balaton. During your visit, you can:

• Stroll along the Tagore Promenade, lined with elegant villas and beautiful gardens.
• Visit the Anna Grand Hotel and learn about the town’s spa heritage.
• Explore the historic downtown, with local shops, cafés, and markets.
• Taste the famous mineral water from the town’s drinking fountain, known for its health benefits.
• Enjoy a coffee or light snack by the lakeside, taking in views of the sparkling water.

Stop 2: Tihany Peninsula

The Tihany Peninsula is famous for its baroque abbey, lavender fields, and panoramic views of Lake Balaton. Highlights include:

• Tihany Abbey – a historic Benedictine monastery with stunning architecture and a museum.
• Lavender fields – perfect for photos and seasonal local products.
• Panoramic viewpoints – offering spectacular views of the northern part of the lake and surrounding hills.
• Village streets – quaint houses, artisan shops, and local cafés.

After exploring Tihany, you will cross Lake Balaton on a ferry to reach the southern shore. This scenic ride provides a unique perspective of the lake and its surroundings.

After exploring Tihany, you will cross Lake Balaton on a ferry to the southern shore, which provides a unique perspective of the lake, a chance for a short lakeside walk, and the opportunity to take photos from unusual angles that you can’t get from the shore.

Stop 3: Siófok

Siófok is known as the capital of Lake Balaton tourism, famous for its lively atmosphere, sandy beaches, and beautiful waterfront. The town is perfect for relaxing by the lake, enjoying the vibrant lakeside ambiance, and soaking up the local culture. Siófok is also the birthplace of the famous composer Imre Kálmán, with a museum dedicated to his life and work.

Highlights of your visit include:

• Siófok Harbor and promenade – a perfect place for a leisurely walk along the lake and to enjoy the waterfront cafés and restaurants.
• Rózsa Liget promenade – a picturesque lakeside walkway lined with trees and benches, ideal for a relaxing stroll.
• Jókai Park – a peaceful green space in the town center, perfect for short walks and photos.
• Víztorony (Water Tower) – climb to the observation deck for panoramic views over Siófok and Lake Balaton.
• Imre Kálmán Museum – dedicated to the life and work of the famous composer, who was born in Siófok.
• Main Street and shops – browse local souvenirs, artisan products, and boutiques.
• Beaches and leisure areas – perfect for a quick swim, sunbathing, or simply relaxing by the water.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or café, soak up the vibrant lakeside ambiance, and take photos of this lively town before your comfortable return to Budapest.

Transport Options for Your Private Day Trip to Lake Balaton: Balatonfüred – Tihany Peninsula – Siófok

Up to 3 People –

• Standard car: Skoda Octavia, Ford Focus
• Comfort car: VW Arteon, VW Touran, Skoda Superb
• Business car: Mercedes E-Class
• Premium car: Mercedes S-Class

Designed for travelers who value comfort and flexibility, this private trip offers an easy and relaxed way to reach Lake Balaton from Budapest. The journey itself becomes part of the experience, with scenic countryside views and the possibility to pause along the route whenever something catches your eye. This format is ideal for a tailor-made day trip, allowing you to move effortlessly between Balatonfüred, the Tihany Peninsula, and Siófok, enjoying each destination at your own pace.

Up to 7 People –

• Standard Van: Opel Vivaro, Ford Transit
• Business Class*: Mercedes V-Class (*up to 6 persons)

Ideal for families or small groups of friends, the van options provide extra space for passengers and luggage, ensuring a comfortable journey from Budapest to the northern and southern shores of Lake Balaton. Travel together in style and ease, enjoy the scenic drive and ferry crossing, and explore each destination independently with the flexibility to stop along the route as desired.