Balatonfoldvar/Balatonszarszo Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Balatonfoldvar/Balatonszarszo
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Balatonföldvár and Balatonszárszó, nestled on the scenic south shore of Lake Balaton, offer a perfect family getaway with a blend of relaxation and adventure. Start your visit at the Balatonföldvár Promenade, where you can stroll beneath ancient plane trees, enjoy the panoramic views from Hajózástörténeti Látogatóközpont, and explore the marina. Families love the sandy beach at Balatonföldvár Strand, where kids can splash in shallow waters and parents can rent paddleboats.
In Balatonszárszó, visit the József Attila Memorial House for a cultural experience, then let the kids run wild at the Szárszó Adventure Park with its rope courses and playgrounds. Take a cycling tour along the Balaton Bike Ring, stopping at local favorites like Kistücsök Étterem for authentic Hungarian cuisine. Don’t miss the Szárszói Piac, a lively market where you can sample homemade jams and artisan cheeses.
For a local secret, ask about the hidden forest path near the Szóládi Pincesor. This tranquil trail leads to centuries-old wine cellars tucked into the hillside, where you can taste family-made wines and enjoy stunning lake vistas, far from the usual tourist crowds. This unique experience is cherished by locals and offers a glimpse into the region’s authentic charm.
Nearby cities
Balatonföldvár
Discover Balatonföldvár on Lake Balaton’s South Shore—sandy beaches, playgrounds, safe swimming, and bike rides promise joyful days for your whole family.
Balatonszarszo
Discover Balatonszárszó on Lake Balaton’s South Shore—where your family can swim, bike shaded trails, and picnic by gentle waves under sunny skies.
Szántód
Discover Szántód on Lake Balaton’s South Shore—where your family can splash in gentle waves, bike lakeside trails, and picnic under sunny Hungarian skies.
Balatonoszod
Bring your family to Balatonoszod on Lake Balaton’s South Shore—splash in gentle waves, picnic by shady trees, and bike together through rolling green hills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Balatonfoldvar/Balatonszarszo has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The best time to visit Balatonföldvár and Balatonszárszó for outdoor fun is from late May to early September, when Lake Balaton’s sparkling waters invite swimming, sailing, and paddleboarding. The lush parks and promenades come alive with festivals and open-air concerts, while the Tihany Peninsula’s lavender fields reach full bloom nearby. Warm, sunny days are perfect for cycling along the scenic Balaton Bike Ring or relaxing at the historic Széchenyi István Lookout Tower, offering panoramic lake views.
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To truly experience the charm of Balatonföldvár and Balatonszárszó, a stay of four to five days is ideal. This gives you time to unwind on the shores of Lake Balaton, enjoy the lively promenade in Balatonföldvár, and explore the Jókai Lookout Tower for panoramic views. With extra days, you can cycle along the scenic Balaton Bike Trail, visit the Szántódpuszta open-air museum, and savor local wines at lakeside restaurants.
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Families visiting Balatonföldvár and Balatonszárszó will find an inviting selection of lakeside resorts, cozy guesthouses, and modern holiday apartments. Many properties are located close to the Balatonföldvár Harbor or the Szántód ferry terminal, offering easy access to Lake Balaton’s sandy beaches and playgrounds. Children will love the adventure parks and mini-golf courses, while parents can relax at wellness hotels with pools, saunas, and on-site restaurants serving Hungarian specialties.
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During a winter getaway in Balatonföldvár or Balatonszárszó, visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along the frozen shores of Lake Balaton, taking in the crisp air and panoramic views. The Szántód ferry pier and the Jókai lookout tower offer stunning photo opportunities, especially with snow-dusted landscapes. Warm up in cozy lakeside cafés, sample local wines at a nearby cellar, and explore the Szárszó Cultural Center, where regional art and history come alive even in the quieter season.
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For families seeking calm, shallow water for young children, the southern shore of Lake Balaton at Balatonföldvár and Balatonszárszó is ideal. The beaches here, such as Balatonföldvár Beach and Szabadstrand in Balatonszárszó, offer gently sloping sandy lakebeds, making the water shallow and warm for a considerable distance from the shore. These areas are well maintained, with playgrounds, shaded spots, and lifeguard supervision, ensuring a safe and relaxing experience for children and parents alike.
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While Balatonfoldvar and Balatonszarszo are more famous for their lakeside charm, beginners and families eager to ski can head to Eplény Ski Arena, the largest ski resort in western Hungary, about an hour’s drive away. This modern facility offers gentle slopes ideal for beginners, excellent ski schools, and family-friendly amenities. The scenic Bakony Hills create a picturesque winter backdrop, and the resort’s snowmaking ensures reliable conditions even when natural snowfall is limited.
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Absolutely, Balatonföldvár and Balatonszárszó offer several affordable family-friendly dining options. In Balatonföldvár, you can enjoy hearty Hungarian meals at Kukorica Csárda, known for its welcoming atmosphere and generous portions, perfect for families. In Balatonszárszó, Fregatt Étterem is a popular choice, offering lakeside views and a diverse menu that caters to both adults and children. Both towns have charming cafés near Lake Balaton, ideal for a relaxing treat after exploring the waterfront promenades.
