Beyond Balaton: List of Hungary’s favorite lakes

The most popular lakes

Based on the overall results, the following lakes were included in the top 10, where at least half of the respondents “like” or “like a lot” the given lake:

Lake Hévíz (63.1%):

Europe’s largest healing hot water lake, which is extremely popular due to its special natural features. Although the entrance fees are at the price level of thermal and spa baths, the lake remains a great favorite.

Lake Tisza (60.8%):

Hungary’s second largest lake, which, despite its artificial design, is increasingly popular among nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Its beaches await visitors with favorable prices.

Lake Hámori (60.3%):

An artificial lake located near Miskolc, which is not suitable for swimming but rather for boating and hiking, but is still very popular.

Lake Szelidi (59.5%):

The fifth largest natural lake in Hungary, which is less known, but those who know it like it very much. Its calm environment and sandy beaches attract visitors.

Lake Fertő (59.2%):

The third largest lake in Central Europe, a significant part of which belongs to Austria. Although the Hungarian beaches are currently under renovation, the lake remains a popular destination.

Vadása lake (55.8%):

The two artificial lakes are located in the county of Vas and offer visitors a quiet and peaceful environment.

Orfűi Lakes (54.8%): 

The artificial lake system near Pécs consists of four lakes and offers a variety of water experiences for both beachgoers and fishermen.

Tatai Grófi-tó (53.2%):

Among Tata’s famous lakes, Grófi-tó stands out, which is a popular destination for hikers and fishermen due to its beach and picturesque surroundings.

Szajki Lakes (52%).

Nyíregyházi Sóstó Tófürdő (50.8%): Although the water quality has fluctuated in recent years, Sóstó Tófürdő remains a popular beach among locals and tourists.

Based on the results of the survey, it is clear that Hungary offers many alternatives for summer recreation outside of Lake Balaton. These lakes are becoming more and more attractive not only for locals, but also for tourists, as they offer better prices and a calmer environment. If you want to avoid the crowds in Balaton, you should discover these gems, which are well worth your attention.