Key Facts about Tihany, Hungary

Location

Tihany is a historic village on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, Hungary’s largest lake, about 135 km southwest of Budapest.

Known for

Its Benedictine Abbey, lavender fields, volcanic landscape, and stunning views of Lake Balaton.

Best Time to Visit

• Late June to July for the lavender bloom and festival.

• Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

• Summer is lively but busier with lake tourism.

Local Language

Hungarian. English and German are commonly spoken in tourist areas.

Currency

Hungarian Forint (HUF).

Getting There

• By car: Around 1.5–2 hours from Budapest via the M7 motorway.

• By train/bus: Regular services connect Budapest to Balatonfüred, then local buses or ferries to Tihany.

• By boat: Ferries link Tihany to Szántód across Lake Balaton.

Top Attractions

• Tihany Abbey – Founded in 1055, overlooking the lake with impressive frescoes.

• Lavender Fields – Famous for their vibrant bloom and lavender products.

• Inner Lake (Belső-tó) – A small volcanic lake popular for birdwatching and walks.

• Echo Hill (Echomountain) – Once known for its strong echo, still a popular viewpoint.

• Tihany Old Town – Charming streets with cafés, craft shops, and lavender boutiques.

Local Specialties

• Lavender honey and syrups – Unique regional products.

• Halászlé (Fisherman’s Soup) – A spicy Hungarian fish soup.

• Stuffed pancakes (Hortobágyi palacsinta) – Savory crepes with meat filling.

• Local wines – Especially whites from the Balaton wine region.

Notable Events

• Lavender Festival (late June) – Celebrating Tihany’s lavender heritage with markets, workshops, and live music.

• Summer concerts and folk events – Held in the abbey and village square.

• Harvest Festivals (autumn) – Featuring wine tastings and regional foods.