Weekend Break to Siófok: Lake Balaton’s Party Capital

Went to Balaton. Saw a different side. Last summer we had a peaceful getaway in the small town of Örvényes, complete with a local beach, hospitable host’s AirBnb cottage, and lake cave excursion.

This time, I got a taste of the nightlife in Balaton’s party capital, Siófok. If you’re craving a party at the lake, read on to see where you should stay, what you can eat, and what to do in Siófok!

Where to Stay:

We spent two nights at Hotel Carpe Diem and we were very pleased. Let me tell you why:

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The location was fantastic. It was a mere 5 minute walk from the Siófok train station and then only a 2 minute walk (if that) to Siófok’s walking street–which meant lightning quick access to all of the restaurants, clubs, and the beach entrance. It also meant that we had quick access to refuge when a thunderstorm broke during our last night😆 But be warned–you might want to bring earplugs because the party in Siófok goes alllll night long and we could definitely hear the booming bass from our room.

The room quality was great–super comfy bed, very clean room and bathroom, air conditioning to battle the Hungarian summer heat. Not to mention the complimentary bottle of rosé they gifted us upon arrival. The hotel’s whole theme led it to be plastered with “Live, laugh, love” type quotes–the cheesiness I could have done without, but it made for a cheery atmosphere ☺️

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And finally, the included breakfast was filling and made for a great start. I couldn’t find any pics or detailed reviews of the breakfast so I was a little worried, but it was simple and delicious. Hot plates full of scrambled eggs and bacon/virsli/lesco, cereals with fresh fruit toppings, cheeses/meats/veggies to go with the copious types of bread. I looked forward to it every morning.

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What to Do:

People come to Siófok for two reasons: to beach by day and party by night.

A day ticket to the beach is 1300 HUF/$4.50, and it grants access to a pretty nice grassy area with lots of food and drink stalls, with lawn chairs available to rent by the day for 1000HUF/$3.40. A fun thing about the beach at Siófok is that the water stays shallow for a long time, so you can walk out quite a ways and water will only reach your waist. After you work up an appetite swimming, chow down on a typical Hungarian summer snack, like a lángos or fried hekk fish.

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If you want to stock up on your own snacks, however, there are a few convenience stores sprinkled along the walking street. (I loved grabbing a cup of fresh fruit to nibble on through the morning).

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At night, the main walking street transforms in the dusky haze of neon lights and sunset. Siófok is finding a balance between party town and a family holiday destination. Kids and adults alike cram into the flashing arcades and gobble down ice cream, as well as walk past booming dance floors and dancing girls. (At least I’m assuming the dance floors were booming–y’all I was such an old lady that I was in bed well before the party prime😆). When you’re prowling the boardwalk looking for dinner, you’ll find plenty of variety. American, Thai, Hungarian, Mexican, Italian, and other cuisines were well represented.

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We had such a good time here! I don’t think I could have stayed longer than we did–hitting up the clubs isn’t really my thing. But I’m not one to turn down a weekend with lake access and a super comfy hotel, either! I’m so glad I got to see this side of Balaton.

Pin it for Later!

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Which do you prefer? Party central or peace and serenity? Let me know in the comments below!