Siófok on Lake Balaton

Siófok is also known as the capital of summer and attracts visitors with a special mix of family-friendliness and party hotspot. The town is located on the idyllic Hungarian Lake Balaton and lies directly on Hungary’s largest lake, which shares the same name, “Balaton”. Enjoy your holiday, relax on the shallow beaches, or, if you’re a water sports enthusiast, experience adventures in the shallow waters.

But you can also explore the town itself and discover interesting sights. Experience Siófok’s nightlife or visit the various water parks with your family. Let yourself be surprised by this diverse town!

Sights

If you’re interested in history, you definitely shouldn’t miss these sights in Siófok!

Lutheran Church

Although Catholic churches often have an impressive façade and inspire tourists, the Lutheran church in Siófok is a successful exception! The church is located in Oulu Park and served (and still serves) as a refuge for believers. Its special feature is that it visually resembles a ship’s hull and is said to represent the construction of the “Ship of Jesus”. Up to 150 people can be inside the church at the same time. The Lutheran church is considered the best-known building in Siófok and enchants the region with its uniqueness. Don’t forget to take a photo in front of this work of art!

Kind Angel of Peace (Pjotr Tyimofejevics Sztronszkij)

The gilded angel bears the name of its creator, Pjotr Tyimofejevics Sztronszkij (Russian sculptor). The statue is meant to symbolize peace and friendship. The angel reveals its beauty at the port of Siófok. The angel’s inscription is bilingual (Russian and Hungarian). In addition, in 2012 the statue was given special significance as a symbol of the sixth World Congress of Finno-Ugric peoples.

Water Tower

The water tower is also a real eye-catcher in the town and impresses with its futuristic design. Despite its name, the water tower has not served as a water tower since the 1970s. Moreover, today’s tower is a reconstruction of the previous structure, as it was damaged during the Second World War and had to be rebuilt. Explore the water tower and enjoy the wonderful panoramic view from a height of 45 meters!

Balaton Observatory

The Balaton Observatory has existed since the 1960s and underwent a renovation in 2012, giving it a new, modern shine. It serves as a warning station for dangerous storms around the area of Lake Balaton. You are welcome to visit the observatory, but you will need to book an appointment in advance!

Szent Kilit Church, Siófok

Siófok also enchants visitors with a Catholic church. The Szent Kilit Church was built in the early 19th century and impresses with its late Baroque elements. Although the church was only erected in the 19th century, the associated parish has existed since the 14th century. What makes the church special is that it is a listed monument with its two-storey tower and pointed roof. It was also attributed to Saint Anklet, who is therefore regarded as the second successor of Simon Peter. Although the church had to be restored in the 1980s after an earthquake caused damage, it did not have to give up its original charm. If you visit the Catholic church, you shouldn’t miss the church garden with the depictions of the Passion of Jesus.

Upside-Down House

As the name suggests, this house is completely upside down! The world literally turns upside down when you enter the building lying on its roof and can discover everything the other way around. The upside-down house is especially interesting for families and therefore offers fun for young and old.

Activities: Relaxation, Sports, and Nightlife in Siófok

Don’t miss the various activities and places to relax in Siófok.

Relaxing at the Beach

The PLÀZS is Siófok’s beach and attracts visitors with plenty of music and entertainment in summer. Until the end of August, you can unwind there and enjoy the wide range of leisure and recreational activities from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Concerts in the evening are also not uncommon. Enjoy a cool summer drink at the Main Beach, with umbrella and sunbed rentals and beach bars.

Water Sports on the Lake

But the lake is not only wonderful for a quick refreshment in the cool water and relaxing on the beach! Especially on Lake Balaton, there are various water sports adventures you should take advantage of, such as surfing. The good thing? You don’t run the risk of drifting out to sea, because the lake offers a safe environment, especially for beginners. The season for experiences on the water starts in April and ends in October. Equally action-packed are possible boat trips on the lake with a jet ski, motorboat, or banana boat. If you prefer a quieter type of water sport, how about stand-up paddling?

Either way, Lake Balaton has something to offer for every interest!

Nightlife: Petőfi Promenade

This promenade is considered the central street of Siófok and invites you later in the day into its colourful park setting. Swing your hips in one of the clubs and enjoy the electrifying bass until dawn. Treat yourself to a delicious cocktail at a bar, or simply take in the colourful party strip from the outside on a nighttime stroll.

Best Time to Visit

Siófok is especially popular because of its lake. Between June and September is the peak season in Siófok, with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius. Ideal weather for soaking up the sun and enjoying a cool refreshment in the water. Siófok is worth a visit in every respect, and even a weekend trip to this town can already be very relaxing!

Places Near Siófok

If you’re already in Siófok, these travel destinations in Hungary might also interest you, especially if you travelled by car!

Szántód

This town is also located on Lake Balaton and is only about 20 minutes from Siófok by train. Definitely worth a day trip! Szántód is one of the oldest places on Lake Balaton and offers a peaceful atmosphere. Visit the markets and browse for souvenirs as well as local specialties. Culture lovers will also find a special attraction in the Szántódpuszta Center. This centre is a unique collection of 30 buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries that will transport you back to times gone by.

Budapest

Even though Budapest involves a longer travel time of about an hour compared to Szántód, a detour to Hungary’s capital is definitely worth it! Especially if you are taking a round trip through Hungary, you shouldn’t miss this culturally and historically rich city. Explore Budapest’s old town and visit famous sights such as the Parliament building, the Fisherman’s Bastion, or take a walk across the Chain Bridge. If you would like to learn more about Budapest, you can find out more in our guide.

Attention: Vignette Requirement in Hungary

If you are travelling to Hungary by car, please note that a vignette is required in Hungary. With us, you can find out which digital vignette you need for your dream trip depending on your vehicle class. Order your digital vignette easily from home and benefit from our multilingual support.

The Europamaut Team Wishes You a Pleasant Journey

We wish you a pleasant trip to Hungary and lots of fun on your road trip. You can find more information about tolls in Hungary in our guide. Feel free to use our route planner to plan your trip perfectly and have matching toll products displayed. If you have any questions, you can reach us anytime via email.