Lake Balaton

This oblong lake is one of the largest in Europe. Often called ‘the nation’s playground,’ Balaton is divided into the south shore, one long resort of high-rise hotels and minuscule beaches, and the less glitzy north shore, offering more historical towns and sights, mountain trails and better wines.

Dominating the south is Siófok, the largest of Balaton’s resorts, a Dionysian place of eating, drinking, swimming, sunbathing and the like. The north’s oldest and most popular resort is Balantonfüred, a sophisticated, yet peaceful place with a bohemian feel. Balaton is 100km (62mi) from Budapest.