Tihany is a village on the northern shore of Lake Balaton on the Tihany Peninsula. The whole peninsula is a historical district. The center of the district is the Benedictine Tihany Abbey, which was founded in 1055 AD by András I, who is buried in the crypt. Wikipedia
Area code: 87
Area: 27.33 km²
Postal code: 8237
Tihany, located on the shores of Lake Balaton in Hungary, is a beautiful village known for its stunning views, lavender fields, and historical sites. The best time to visit depends on what you want to experience:
Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season, with warm weather perfect for exploring the lake, enjoying outdoor activities, and attending festivals. The village is lively, and many tourists come for the lake's beaches and boating opportunities.
Spring (April to May): Spring is a wonderful time to visit if you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds. The lavender fields start to bloom, offering picturesque views, and the landscape is lush and green. It’s great for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
Autumn (September to October): Early autumn is a fantastic time as the weather is still pleasant, and the fall foliage adds charm to the area. Lavender blooms begin to fade, but the region still has a peaceful atmosphere. This time is perfect for those who prefer fewer tourists and a more relaxed vibe.
Winter (November to March): Winter is the least popular season for tourists in Tihany, but it’s the perfect time if you want peace and quiet. Though temperatures are colder, the region’s beauty is still present, and you can enjoy a more intimate experience of Tihany’s history and culture.
Tihany is located on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, about 130 kilometers southwest of Budapest. Here are a few ways to get there:
By Car:
The easiest and most flexible way to get to Tihany is by car. From Budapest, take the M7 motorway towards Lake Balaton, and follow signs to Tihany. The drive typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
By Train:
You can take a train from Budapest to Balatonfüred, which is the nearest major town to Tihany. The journey takes around 1.5 hours. From Balatonfüred, you can take a bus or taxi to Tihany, which is about 6 km away.
By Bus:
There are buses from Budapest to Tihany, but the journey may take around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic.
By Ferry:
During the summer months, you can take a ferry across Lake Balaton from Balatonfüred to Tihany, offering a scenic way to arrive. This is a popular choice for tourists looking to enjoy the lake views.
Tihany Abbey (Tihanyi Apátság):
The Tihany Abbey is one of the top attractions, perched on a hill overlooking the lake. Founded in the 11th century, the abbey is a historic site with stunning baroque architecture, and the view from the top is breathtaking.
Lavender Fields:
Tihany is famous for its lavender fields, particularly during the blooming season (late June to early July). These fields offer a perfect opportunity for photos, and you can also buy lavender products from local shops.
Echo Hill (Visszhang-domb):
A short hike takes you to Echo Hill, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The hill is famous for its echo, which can be heard when you shout toward the lake.
Tihany’s Old Village (Tihany Falu):
The old village of Tihany is full of charming narrow streets, traditional houses, and local cafes. You can enjoy a peaceful walk through the village and explore small artisan shops.
Lake Balaton:
Tihany has a beautiful shoreline along Lake Balaton, which is perfect for boat rides, fishing, and swimming. The views over the lake are magnificent, particularly at sunset.
Tihany Peninsula Nature Reserve:
The peninsula is a nature reserve with various hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and geological formations. It’s perfect for nature lovers.
Tihany Museum:
Housed in an old building in the village, the museum showcases the history and culture of Tihany, including exhibits on local traditions and the life of the monks who once lived in the abbey.
Boating and Water Activities:
You can rent a boat or take a ferry ride across Lake Balaton. The lake is perfect for activities like sailing, kayaking, and swimming, especially in the summer months.
Hiking and Cycling:
Tihany is a great place for outdoor activities, with many scenic trails for hiking and cycling. The Tihany Nature Reserve offers a variety of trails for all levels, and you can explore the forests, cliffs, and lakeside views.
Wine Tasting:
The region around Tihany is known for its wine production, particularly Kékfrankos and Riesling. Visit one of the local wineries for a wine-tasting session and enjoy the wines with views of the lake.
Spa and Wellness:
Nearby towns like Balatonfüred offer excellent spa and wellness facilities, perfect for a day of relaxation. The thermal waters in the region are well-known for their healing properties.
Explore the Lavender Fields:
During the lavender season, you can tour the fields, take photographs, and purchase lavender-based products like oils, soaps, and honey.
Cultural Events and Festivals:
During the summer months, Tihany hosts various cultural events and festivals, including lavender festivals, live music performances, and arts exhibitions. These are great opportunities to experience the local culture and traditions.
Visit the Tihany Marina:
For a more leisurely activity, you can stroll through the Tihany Marina, where you can see the sailboats docked and enjoy a meal or a drink at the lakeside cafes.
Tihany offers a variety of accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to luxury hotels, making it suitable for different types of travelers. Here are some options:
Luxury Hotels:
Echo Residence All Suite Hotel: Located near the Tihany Peninsula, this luxury hotel offers modern suites, a wellness center, and spectacular views of Lake Balaton.
Hotel Yacht Wellness & Business: Located on the shores of Lake Balaton, this hotel provides comfortable rooms, a wellness center, and easy access to the lake for boating and swimming.
Mid-Range Options:
Tihany Arboretum Hotel: A comfortable hotel located near the Tihany Arboretum, this place offers a peaceful atmosphere and is perfect for those who love nature and hiking.
Hotel Tihany: A family-friendly hotel that is well-located with great access to both the village and the lake, offering modern amenities and easy access to local attractions.
Budget Accommodations:
Guesthouses and B&Bs: Tihany has many charming guesthouses and bed-and-breakfast accommodations. These offer a cozy atmosphere and often include breakfast with local specialties.
Tihany Hostel: A budget-friendly option, ideal for young travelers or those looking to meet new people. The hostel offers basic but comfortable rooms and is close to the center.
Campsites:
For nature lovers, there are several campsites around Tihany, especially near the lake. These are perfect for an outdoor experience with facilities for tents, caravans, and even glamping.
Tihany has a selection of excellent restaurants offering both Hungarian and international cuisine, with a focus on local ingredients and Lake Balaton specialties. Here are some options:
Traditional Hungarian Cuisine:
Bajor Ház Restaurant: This rustic restaurant offers classic Hungarian dishes, such as goulash, paprika chicken, and hearty stews. It also has a wonderful terrace with views of the village.
L'Azur Restaurant: Located near the Tihany Abbey, this restaurant serves a mix of Hungarian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes with fresh ingredients from the region.
Fish and Lake Balaton Specialties:
Balatonföldvár Restaurant: Famous for its fish dishes, especially fried fish and the traditional Balaton fish soup. The restaurant has a cozy, lakeside atmosphere.
Kogart Tihany: A seafood restaurant serving fresh fish from Lake Balaton. Enjoy dishes like fish fillets, smoked fish, and other traditional local dishes with a modern twist.
Cafes and Sweet Treats:
Tihany Café: Perfect for a coffee and cake break, this cozy café serves delicious pastries, including strudel and local Hungarian cakes like Dobos cake.
Lavender Café: A small café that specializes in lavender-flavored treats, such as lavender ice cream, cakes, and lavender tea. It’s the perfect spot to indulge after a visit to the lavender fields.
Wineries and Wine-Tasting:
Tihany Wine Cellar: Situated in the heart of Tihany, this winery offers tastings of local wines like Kékfrankos, Riesling, and Chardonnay. The experience is often paired with regional cheese and cured meats.
Frittmann Wine House: A nearby wine house offering excellent wine-tasting experiences and views of the lake. You can also enjoy a light meal with the wine.
Tihany is rich in history, tradition, and a unique blend of Hungarian culture. Here’s a glimpse into its cultural essence:
Lavender Tradition:
Tihany has been famous for its lavender cultivation for centuries, and lavender remains a cornerstone of local culture. The annual Lavender Festival (held in late June or early July) celebrates this heritage, and the fields bloom with beautiful purple flowers, filling the air with fragrance.
Tihany Abbey:
The Tihany Abbey is not only an architectural gem but also a significant part of the cultural and religious life of the region. It was founded in the 11th century and is home to a rich monastic history. The abbey’s crypt holds the remains of King Andrew I, whose legacy remains a part of Hungarian history.
Folk Traditions and Festivals:
In addition to the Lavender Festival, Tihany hosts other cultural events throughout the year, including folk music festivals, art exhibitions, and traditional Hungarian festivals celebrating food, music, and dance.
Craftsmanship and Souvenirs:
Tihany is also known for local handicrafts, including lacquered wooden items, pottery, and handwoven textiles. You can visit local artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs.
Historic Architecture and Village Life:
The narrow streets of Tihany’s old village are lined with charming, whitewashed houses. Many of these buildings have been preserved and showcase the traditional architecture of the region. The village has a relaxed, timeless feel, and locals take pride in maintaining its heritage.
Hungarian Folk Music:
Folk music plays an essential role in Tihany’s cultural identity, and you can often hear traditional csárdás music at festivals or local taverns. There are also performances that showcase Hungarian dancing and singing.
Overall, Tihany offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and rich cultural traditions that make it an unforgettable destination.