Balaton Wines Road Trip

Experience the best of Hungary's wine country on the Balaton Wines Road Trip. This two-day route starts in Budapest and takes you on a journey of 413 km through the towns of Badacsony and Veszprém, with plenty of opportunities to sample the local wines and witness the beauty of the region. The best time to drive is between April and October, when the weather is mild and the roads are in good condition. This road trip offers a unique experience for drivers of all levels. Enjoy the stunning landscapes, visit the local wineries, and create unforgettable memories. With a reasonable budget, you can make your trip even more enjoyable by staying at cozy hotels or renting a car. So, don't miss out on this amazing road trip and explore the best of Hungary's wine country!

Budapest, Hungary is an ideal starting point for a road trip along the Balaton Wines Road Trip. Located in the heart of the country, Budapest's international airport, Liszt Ferenc International Airport (IATA: BUD), is well connected to major cities around the world. Car rentals are available at the airport for those who wish to explore the region at their own pace. The city itself is home to a number of cultural and historical attractions. Visitors should not miss the iconic Chain Bridge, the majestic Buda Castle, and the Parliament Building. For a more modern experience, the city boasts a vibrant nightlife and a variety of award-winning restaurants. From Budapest, visitors can embark on a journey along the Balaton Wines Road Trip, where they can sample some of the country's best wines. The route takes visitors through picturesque villages, vineyards, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Along the way, travelers can learn about the history of Hungarian winemaking, visit local wineries, and taste some of Hungary's best wines. Whether visiting Budapest for its cultural attractions or embarking on the Balaton Wines Road Trip, the city is an ideal starting point for a memorable journey.

Are you looking for a road trip that is full of exciting attractions, stunning scenery, and delicious food? Then look no further than this 208 km journey from Budapest to Badacsony. Starting in Hungary's capital, Budapest, you'll make your way to the picturesque village of Tihany. Here, you can explore the Benedictine Abbey and the iconic Echo Hill, which offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding hills. From here, you'll continue on your journey to Badacsony, a charming village situated on the northern shore of Lake Balaton. Here, you can enjoy some of the best wines in the region, as well as visit the Badacsony Hill with its spectacular views of the lake. With fewer than 4 hours of driving time, this road trip is the perfect way to explore Hungary's beautiful countryside. Make sure to keep an eye out for the scenic roads along the way! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" section of this stage.

Are you looking for a road trip that is full of scenic views and interesting places? Then join us on a tour from Badacsony to Veszprém, in Hungary! This 64 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete, and you will find some of the most beautiful places in the region. Start your trip in Badacsony, where you can explore the unique volcanic landscape and enjoy the famous wines of the area. Then, head to Káptalantóti, a beautiful village with a stunning view of the Balaton Uplands National Park. After that, you can visit the medieval town of Várpalota and its castle, before getting to Veszprém. Here, you can explore the city’s many attractions, such as the old city centre, the Cathedral of Veszprém, and the Castle Hill. As you travel through this beautiful region, make sure to take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Along the way, you will find plenty of places to stop and take a break, so don’t forget to enjoy the scenery! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.

Embark on a road trip that starts in Veszprém, Hungary and ends in Budapest! This 142 km journey can be completed in less than two hours, making it a perfect stage for a larger tour. Start your journey in Veszprém, a city known for its historical sites, including the Castle of Veszprém, the Cathedral of Veszprém, and the Bishop's Palace. Make sure to visit the nearby Bakony Mountains to admire the breathtaking views. Continue your trip to Budapest, Hungary's capital city. Here you can explore the many attractions, such as the Hungarian Parliament Building, the Buda Castle, the Chain Bridge, and the Fisherman's Bastion. You can also take a stroll along the Danube River or visit one of the many thermal baths. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Budapest, Hungary is the perfect end point for the Balaton Wines Road Trip. This vibrant city on the Danube River is known for its history, culture, and stunning architecture. From the banks of the Danube, the views of the city are simply breathtaking. The city is full of attractions, from the majestic Royal Palace to the fascinating Fisherman's Bastion. For those wishing to explore the city's rich history, the Hungarian National Museum and the Hungarian Parliament Building are definitely worth a visit. Shoppers will love Budapest's many markets, while food lovers will appreciate the city's wide variety of restaurants, offering everything from traditional Hungarian cuisine to international dishes. And don't forget to explore the city's nightlife, with its many bars, clubs and pubs. For those traveling by car, Budapest is easily accessible via the M0 ring road. The closest international airport is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), located just outside the city. The Balaton Wines Road Trip ends in Budapest, Hungary, a city full of surprises and attractions that will leave you wanting to come back for more.

Before you set off

The Balaton Wine Route is a captivating two-day adventure spanning approximately 413 km from the bustling city of Budapest to the serene vineyards of the Lake Balaton region. This journey not only offers an opportunity to indulge in some of Hungary's finest wines but also to embrace the stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage found along the way.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Budapest: The starting point of the Trip, famous for its historic castles, thermal baths, and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed riverfront. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Buda Castle, the Chain Bridge, and the Parliament Building.
• Badacsony: This area is renowned for its unique volcanic soil, which imparts a distinctive character to its wines, particularly the indigenous white grape variety, Olaszrizling. Badacsony's hills offer panoramic views of Lake Balaton, Central Europe's largest freshwater lake.
• Veszprém: Often called the 'City of Queens,' Veszprém is steeped in history, with attractions like the Veszprém Castle and the Gizella Chapel. The city is also part of the Bakony–Balaton Geopark, recognized by UNESCO for its geological significance.

Best Time to Go:

Late spring to early autumn (May to September) is the most ideal time for the Balaton Wine Route, with vineyards in full bloom and the wine harvest season bringing a festive atmosphere in September. The region's numerous festivals and events, including the Badacsony Wine Weeks, add to the Trip's appeal.

Potential Risks:

Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited and dangerous. Ensure you plan your tastings with either designated drivers or local transportation options. Weather conditions may affect driving, so check forecasts and be prepared for seasonal changes.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• Lake Balaton, often referred to as the 'Hungarian Sea,' is a popular summer retreat with a thriving wine culture that dates back to the Romans.
• The Balaton Uplands National Park, adjacent to Badacsony, offers trails for hiking amidst basalt columns and remnants of former volcanic activity.
• Hungary's wine regions, including those around Lake Balaton, are celebrated for their unique varietals and have been recognized by the prestigious International Wine Challenge and Decanter World Wine Awards.

A good choice for:

Embarking on the Balaton Wine Route provides a delightful escape into the heart of Hungarian viticulture, complete with breathtaking landscapes and a taste of the country’s storied past. This Road Trip is a feast for the senses, attracting not only oenophiles but also anyone with a love for nature and history.