Siófok holidays

Holidays to Siófok are filled with lakeside walks, watersports and a vibrant evening atmosphere – plus a touch of history too.

Lake life meets nightlife

Siófok, an old fishing village on the southern shores of Lake Balaton, central Europe's largest freshwater lake, is now the biggest and most populated town around the lake, earning its title as the capital of Lake Balaton. Known for its lively promenade, beaches and fab watersports facilities, it's a bustling hub for both locals and tourists. The town has a rich history dating back to Roman times and is home to many cultural landmarks, like the historical Water Tower. You'll find the days are made for chilling out and exploring, but by night, the promenade comes alive with a vibrant energy filling the bars.

Spirit of summer

Siófok’s got a vibrant summer vibe. Stroll the tree-lined promenade, relax on the grassy spots or breathe in the fresh air while dining al fresco. The town's filled with restaurants, cafés and bars serving everything from local dishes to your classic comfort foods. Mala Garden's got a prime spot, where you can sip cocktails on the lakefront terrace and take in the views. And if you're in the mood for a late-night boogie, Siófok’s nightlife has you covered.

Walking trips and fresh water dips

Spend your days soaking up the mix of local culture and stunning scenery Siófok has to offer. Hop on a leisurely boat trip across the lake for some fab views, or dive into your holiday read by the water's edge. Don’t miss out on taste-testing the traditional Hungarian cuisine – think hearty goulash soup and delicious pastries. And for a cultural scoop, check out Jókai Mór Memorial House, dedicated to one of Hungary’s great writers, or catch an organ concert at the historic Roman Catholic church. Feeling active? Try stand-up paddleboarding or explore by bike or on a guided walking tour.

Out and about

  • Lakeside promenade
  • Bike hire
  • Wildlife park
  • Public gardens
  • Indoor pool
  • Museum
  • Art gallery
  • Horse-drawn carriages
  • Lakeside path
  • Lakeside cycle paths
  • National park
  • Cycle routes
  • Lake bathing
  • Local ferries
  • Guided walking tours
  • Local markets
  • Open-air concerts
  • Tennis courts
  • Botanical gardens
  • Fishing
  • Electric bikes

Popular hotels in Siófok

Top things to see and do in Siófok

Beaches

Grand beach

For swimming, watersports and relaxing, Grand beach is a great spot, just a 5-minute stroll from the centre. Grassy banks, with plenty of sun loungers to soak up the sun before a refreshing dip. Grab a bite to eat at the surrounding cafés and bars, take a ride on the Ferris wheel or let the kids run around in the playground. A small entry fee applies during the day, but evening access is free after 6:30pm.

Golden Shore beach

Golden Shore beach offers a refreshing escape with grassy areas just a short walk from the city centre. Entry is free, and watersports like pedalos, rowing boats, and paddleboards are available to rent, or simply enjoy a leisurely swim. Afterwards, unwind at the bar or café while basking in the sun’s warmth.

Újhelyi beach

Just a 10-minute walk from the centre, Újhelyi beach has grassy shores to sit back and relax by the water’s edge. You can rent rowing boats or stand-up paddleboards for those looking for something a bit more active. There are also plenty of spots to picnic, a playground for the kids and changing rooms to freshen up.

Shopping

Bargain buys

The town centre has a couple of supermarkets and smaller general stores if you’re looking to stock up with snacks and picnic food for a cheaper price.

Mid-range buys

The Petőfi Sétány promenade is lined with shops full of souvenirs and clothes to browse through. By the beaches there are a few smaller shops selling all the necessary beach supplies you could need.

Designer buys

There are a handful of shops selling hand-made jewellery and art along the promenade if that’s what you’re after. If you’re looking for designer shops take a trip to the capital – Budapest. It’s around 1 hour and 30 minutes by train from Siófok.

Nightlife

Laid-back evenings

Sip on a cold, refreshing drink at the hotel bar before wandering along the waterside promenade towards the harbour - take in the sunset's warm hues on the water as twinkling lights begin to appear on the boats and town around you.

Lively evenings

For a bustling evening atmosphere, the Petőfi Sétány promenade is lined with bars and restaurants for a fun-filled evening and a cocktail or two, with plenty of spots to keep you going into the early hours if that's what you're after.

Food & drink

Eating out

Siofok has a diverse range of dining options, from cosy family-run eateries serving traditional Hungarian dishes like hearty goulash and halaszle – a spicy fish soup, to more high-end restaurants with international cuisine. Whether you're looking for a casual local experience or a more sophisticated ambiance, you'll find plenty of choices to suit your taste and budget. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss trying the chimney cake – a traditional spiral pastry.

Roxy Étterem

A popular restaurant off the main street, with a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, friendly staff and a variety of dishes from local specialities to your European classics of pizzas, salads and soups. It is recommended to book in advance as you’ll find the restaurant fills up fast.

Homemade Hungarian dishes at the Old Fisherman’s

The Old Fisherman's restaurant is a cosy, traditional eatery known for its typical Hungarian menu. It has both indoor and outdoor seating, so take a seat on the balcony or enjoy the wooden décor inside and dig into dishes like fish and goulash soup.

Piroska Tavern and Inn

Piroska Tavern and Inn, one of the oldest inns in Lake Balaton, offers a delightful dining experience with a variety of home-cooked, regional dishes, as well as other European options. Enjoy a slightly more upmarket but inviting setting, with both indoor and outdoor seating areas.

Getting about

Buses

The main bus stop is in the town centre, a short walk from the train station, with regular buses that connect the centre to surrounding areas around the town. You’ll also find buses running between nearby towns and villages along the lake.

Ferries

Ferries run every 30 minutes from Szántód to Tihany on the opposite shore – Szántód is around a 30-minute bus ride from Siófok.

Trains

The train station is in the centre of Siófok right next to Millenium Park. From here, you can get to Budapest in around 1 hour 30 minutes, as well as the other end of Lake Balaton to either Keszthely or Nagykanizsa.

On foot

Siófok's great to explore on foot, with the town centre pedestrianised around the Petőfi Sétány promenade, as well as the Water Tower, rose garden and harbour all walking distance from the centre. Don’t miss the walking trails dotted around the Töreki Nature Conservation Area – a quiet valley with beautiful woodland and landscapes.

Walking

Walking

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed wander or a chance to get your steps in, you’ll find something suitable. For those casual walkers, wander the streets of Siófok, popping into shops, landmarks and cafés on your way, or meander down the promenade on the lakes edge. If you want to explore further afield and get a change of scenery, there are plenty of footpaths leading to neighbouring towns and countryside.

Statues, walks & memories

Head out on an easy sightseeing stroll that showcases Siófok's statues and monuments including the Water Tower and a World War II memorial. This leisurely route takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and you can start and finish at any point along the way. The walk is engaging for all ages, with a simple code-cracking game for children, allowing families to explore the town's highlights whilst having fun together.

Töreki Nature Conservation

Discover the natural beauty of this region by venturing along the walking trail in Töreki's nature conservation area. The trail meanders through thick forests, wetlands and diversly inhabited meadows, alongside smaller fishing lakes nestled within the woodlands. You’ll need between an hour and an afternoon for the walk, with the best starting points either Cinege Pihenő or Tóköz Pihenő.

Top Hotels in Siófok

Facts about Siófok

Currency
Hungarian Forint
(HUF)
Language
Hungarian
Time zone
GMT +1
Flight duration
2 hours 30 minutes from Gatwick

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