1. Jókai Mór Memorial House

Jókai Mór and his wife, the celebrated actress Laborfalvy Róza, spent several summers in Balatonfüred. In 1867, the year of the Austro-Hungarian Compromise, encouraged by his brother-in-law, Dr. István Huray, a spa physician, they purchased a private plot to help Jókai recover from bronchitis and persistent coughing. Their house was completed in 1870, and from then on, the family spent several months there each summer. During these stays, Jókai wrote numerous short stories and newspaper articles, many of which helped popularize Lake Balaton. This period is considered his creative golden age, with The Man with the Golden Touch (Az arany ember) being his most famous work from this time. After the death of his wife in 1886, the house became deserted. Though Jókai visited Balatonfüred a few more times, the Balaton region no longer appeared in his works, and he never used the summer home again.

In 1954, on the 50th anniversary of Jókai Mór’s death, the Jókai Villa was transformed into a museum. It is especially popular for its permanent exhibition, which showcases the everyday life of the Jókai family in Balatonfüred and the creation of The Man with the Golden Touch (Az arany ember). Visitors can explore period-accurate interiors and personal artifacts from the years 1870 to 1886. Additionally, the well-maintained front garden offers a peaceful spot to rest and reflect.

Visitor Information:

• Address: Balatonfüred, Honvéd steet 1.
• Contact: +36-87/950-876 (Extension 2)
• jokeiemlekhaz@furedkult.hu

2. The Huray Villas

In 1867, the Huray couple purchased two plots of land from the parceling of the Tihany Abbey. The villa complex consists of three units, each representing a key example of 19th-century summer villa architecture in its distinct style. These include the single-story "big villa" built in 1868, designed in the Swiss style with a wooden veranda and decorative, fretwork-trimmed gable, the similar but two-story "small villa" built in 1890, and the accompanying servant’s house. An account from the period describes:

"One of the most elegant summer villas, with a beautiful, well-maintained garden. Its façade, which faces the garden and Lake Balaton, is adorned with a covered balcony on the side, offering a stunning view of the lake and the vineyards of Tihany."

3. Blaha Lujza’s Summer Residence

Blaha Lujza's summer residence in Balatonfüred is not only a charming building but also an important site in Hungarian cultural life. The building was constructed in 1898 by Lajosné Szűcs, better known as Szűcs néni, a prominent local figure in the town. Due to Szűcs néni's hospitality, many artists and writers visited her, and the summer house, along with Jókai’s villa, became a focal point for artistic connections.

Jókai Mór, the famous writer who had a close friendship with Szűcs néni, also spent a significant amount of time in Balatonfüred. He writes about her and the creation of his most famous work, The Man with the Golden Touch (Az arany ember):

"She was a beautiful old woman. I also received something from her: the basic idea for this novel. One afternoon, fate brought me together with her. We traveled together on the Kisfaludy steamboat from Balatonfüred to Siófok. Halfway through, a fierce storm struck the boat: the dreaded Bakony wind suddenly turned the calm lake into a raging sea. All the male and female passengers became seasick and rushed to the cabins. Only the two of us —my aunt and I—remained on deck, not even noticing the entire boat rocking. 'Only the strength of the ancient Szűcs blood keeps us going,' said my aunt, who was also born into the Szűcs family. She was my grandmother's sister and became wealthy after marrying her husband. She then sat me down beside her, and while the waves tossed the boat, causing one of its paddle wheels to constantly flutter in the air, she told me the story that would become the ending of my novel The Man with the Golden Touch. It was the tale of the young widow, her fiancé, a military officer, her governess, the officer’s former lover, and their mother, whom she knew all too well. This was the core idea, the ultimate catastrophe, to which I then had to build the preceding story, which leads to this fate, and select the characters and situations to make everything believable. But those characters and situations truly existed in reality."

Szűcs néni's influence was significant not only on artists but also on the development of Balatonfüred, which became a popular summer resort at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. Blaha Lujza, one of the greatest Hungarian operetta stars of the early 20th century, purchased the summer residence in 1911 from the Cséry family, who had inherited the villa after Szűcs néni. The building became the artist's favorite retreat, where her friends and colleagues often visited.

Visitor Information:

• Cím: Balatonfüred, Blaha Lujza u. 4.
• Phone:+36 87 580 481

4. Kerektemplom (Round Church)

The lakeside church was built in the classicist style, and with its unique circular floor plan, it has become one of the symbols of the city. It is worth visiting not only for its distinctive exterior but also for the beauty of its interior. The elegant design and serene atmosphere of the Kerektemplom make it a significant landmark in Balatonfüred.

During the 1918 Őszirózsás Forradalom (Autumn Rose Revolution), many political exiles and refugees, including revolutionaries, hid at the homes of local residents, friends, and acquaintances in Balatonfüred and its surroundings. This period of political turmoil saw many individuals seeking refuge in the area, which became a safe haven for those involved in or persecuted by the revolution. Balatonfüred’s secluded and peaceful environment provided an ideal place for hiding and regrouping during this turbulent time in Hungary's history.

5. Kossuth-forrás and Kossuth Lajos Emlékmű (Kossuth Spring and Kossuth Lajos Memorial)

The Kossuth Spring and the Kossuth Lajos Memorial are located in the center of Balatonfüred and are popular attractions. The healing waters of the Kossuth Spring have been used for a long time, especially recommended for heart and circulatory problems. The Kossuth Lajos Memorial honors the leader of the Hungarian Revolution of 1848-49. The area around the spring and memorial is ideal for a peaceful walk, allowing visitors to explore a piece of Hungarian history while enjoying the serene surroundings.

Visitor Information:

• Address: 8230 Balatonfüred, Gyógy tér
• Free to enter

6. Anna Grand Hotel

This hotel has been an iconic building in Balatonfüred since the Reform Era. It is the venue of the Anna Balls, which continue to be an elegant and historic event to this day. The hotel stands as a symbol of the town's rich cultural heritage and remains a key part of its social life, drawing visitors who wish to experience a touch of tradition and grandeur.

Visitor Information:

• Address: 8230 Balatonfüred, Gyógy tér
• Website: www.annagrandhotel.hu
• Phone: +36 87 581 200

7. Eszterházy Castle

The Eszterházy Castle is a two-story historical building, constructed in 1782 in the Baroque style. Located at the highest point of the spa district, this summer residence was the first more refined private building in the reform-era part of the town. The Eszterházy family, one of Hungary's most renowned aristocratic families, used it as their summer residence, and it became the center of social life along the shores of Lake Balaton. The castle’s elegant columned façade, beautiful park, and stunning view of the Balaton made it a unique and iconic landmark.

In the 20th century, the castle was nationalized and underwent several renovations to restore its original splendor. Today, it is open to the public as a museum, showcasing the aristocratic lifestyle of times past. The castle's park and the nearby promenades offer the perfect setting for a pleasant excursion by Lake Balaton, allowing visitors to enjoy both history and nature in this picturesque environment.

Visitor Information:

• Address: Balatonfüred, Eszterházy Castle
• Contact: +36 87 555 100
• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

8. Horváth House

The Horváth House is one of the oldest and most significant buildings in Balatonfüred, built in 1798. The building, designed in the Copf style, was commissioned by János Horváth, a wealthy landowner of the town, and it played a central role in the life of the settlement even at that time. The house reflects the architectural trends of its era and stands as an important historical landmark in Balatonfüred, showcasing the town’s cultural and social development over the years.

9. Füredi Promenade

The Tagore Promenade is one of Balatonfüred's most beautiful and well-known waterfront areas, stretching along the shores of Lake Balaton. It is named after the Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore, who came to the town for medical treatment in 1926. As a token of gratitude, he planted a tree on the promenade. Tagore fully recovered, and since then, the promenade has become a symbol of healing and the joys of life. This scenic walk is beloved by both locals and visitors, offering peaceful views of the lake and a chance to connect with the town's history. It remains an iconic part of Balatonfüred, where one can enjoy nature, reflect, and experience the therapeutic atmosphere that Tagore himself experienced.

The promenade features plaques and statues honoring famous writers, poets, and politicians who expressed their admiration for the town. The pleasant shade provided by the trees, the beautiful flowers, and the breathtaking views of Lake Balaton make the promenade one of the most beloved spots in the city, both for tourists and locals alike. It offers a serene atmosphere where visitors can relax, enjoy the natural beauty, and reflect on the cultural legacy of those who have been inspired by the town.

Visitor Information:

• Address: Balatonfüred, Tagore sétány

10. Sailing Museum (Vitorlás Múzeum)

The Balatonfüred Sailing Museum (Vitorlázeum) is an interactive exhibition that showcases the history of sailing on Lake Balaton, with a special focus on the development of the sport and the lake's role in it. The exhibition brings to life old boats, race histories, and the life stories of famous sailors. The museum is particularly exciting for families and sailing enthusiasts, as interactive tools, simulators, and touchscreen displays help visitors gain a closer understanding of the sport.

Visitor Information:

• Address: Balatonfüred, Tagore sétány 1.
• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Contact:+36 87 580 480
• Website: vitorlazeum.hu

11. Kisfaludy Gallery (Kisfaludy Galéria)

The building, nearly 200 years old, was originally constructed for the entertainment of spa guests and used to be a restaurant. At the initiative of the famous Hungarian writer, Mór Jókai, the neighboring Ipoly Hotel was built in 1895, and the Kisfaludy Restaurant was also renovated at the same time.

Later, the spa management decided to transform the restaurant into a "mobile theater," so in 1914, the building was expanded with a cloakroom and a pastry shop. In 1922, it opened its doors to the public as the Kisfaludy Moving Theater. The theater later became known as the Kisfaludy Cinema and continued to operate under that name until 2004.

As part of the Balaton-part Ékköve project, the renovation of the spa complex began in 2004, including the reconstruction of the buildings, park, and the former cinema. Afterward, the cinema was transformed into a home for the visual arts, where visitors can gain insight into Balatonfüred's cultural history.

Visitor Information:

• Address: Balatonfüred, Kisfaludy street 1.
• Phone: +36 87 343 343

13. Vaszary Villa:

The Vaszary Villa is one of the most impressive and well-known villas in Balatonfüred, built in 1892 as a summer residence for Cardinal Kolos Vaszary, the Archbishop of Esztergom. The elegant building is surrounded by a beautiful, spacious park that provided a pleasant retreat for the villa's residents. Kolos Vaszary was one of the most influential figures in the Hungarian church, and by constructing the villa, he contributed to the flourishing of Balatonfüred's social and cultural life.

During the 20th century, the villa served multiple purposes, including functioning as a hospital and sanatorium. Today, the villa serves as an art center, regularly hosting contemporary exhibitions and cultural events. The Vaszary Villa is thus a significant location in Balatonfüred, not only from a historical perspective but also in terms of its artistic importance.

Visitor Information:

• Address: Balatonfüred, Honvéd street 1.
• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Contact: +36 87 950 876
• Website: vaszaryvilla.balatonfured.hu

14. House of Jewish Excellence

The building, located on Bajcsy-Zsilinszky Street just a few steps from our guesthouse, was once a synagogue and has served numerous functions throughout its tumultuous history. The first mention of it is found in a document from 1267. Positioned at the western tip of the triangle surrounded by the three major churches—the White (Reformed), the Red (Catholic), and the Evangelical—this is the oldest building in the city, its walls preserving 750 years of history.

The renovated building opened as the House of Jewish Excellence in the spring of 2018. It is a unique exhibition space in Balatonfüred, showcasing the work and life journeys of Jewish scientists, artists, and historical figures. The interactive exhibition, using modern technological tools, helps visitors learn about the contributions of prominent figures from Hungarian and international Jewish communities to science, culture, and society.

The exhibition is particularly inspiring, as it focuses on individuals who left a lasting impact on the world through their work. The House of Jewish Excellence is an important and thought-provoking venue in Balatonfüred's cultural life.

Visitor Information:

• Address: 8230 Balatonfüred, Bajcsy-Zsilinszky street 32.
• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Contact: +36 87 782 037
• Website: https://www.zsidokivalosagok.hu/

15. The Red Church (Roman Catholic Parish Church)

This neo-Gothic style church was completed at the end of the 19th century and got its name from its red brick facade. Inside the church, you can find impressive frescoes and paintings, and the building is one of the defining symbols of the city.

Visitor Information:

• Address: Balatonfüred, Szent István tér 2.
• Phone:+36 87 580 481

16: The short history of the Papsoka Church Ruin

The area of present-day Balatonfüred was already inhabited during Roman times. On the site of the St. Michael's Church ruins in Papsoka, a Roman villa stood until the 4th century, and the church itself was built on its foundations in the 11th-12th centuries. Several settlements existed in the region during the Middle Ages, such as Arács, Kéki, Siske, and Papasoka.

The name of the latter (Papasoka) itself carries its meaning, as it referred to the fact that this area was ecclesiastical property, most of it belonging to the Tihany Benedictine Abbey. The land registry of 1211 can be considered the first reliable mention of the settlement, listing 11 households in the area, which suggests a population of around 100-150 people.

The church was rebuilt several times until its destruction, so it bears characteristics of Romanesque, Early Gothic, and Late Gothic styles. Originally, its entrance faced south, towards Lake Balaton, but later, a door was added on the western side of the building, which is oriented east-west. In the 14th century, the church was expanded to the west, and around the 16th century, it was extended to the east. The current late Gothic walls surrounding the apse can still be observed several meters high. The stone foundation of the wall surrounding the church is also visible.

In the mid-1960s, the site was excavated, and the church was restored and preserved. During this work, a late Gothic baptismal font and a procession cross decorated with mountain crystals were found. The latter dates back to the 13th century and was discovered in the center of the church, inside a young beech wood coffin. These items were transferred to the city's museum.

Since the 18th century, burials took place around the church ruins. Among those buried here is Keöd József, the last captain of the first steamship on Lake Balaton, the Kisfaludy.

In addition to his work in shipping, he was also involved in viticulture, and with great success. One of his inventions, a simplified double-action wine press, gained considerable recognition. He was also a writer and, in his youth, acted as a member of several theater companies, showcasing his versatility.

From the vicinity of the ruins, there is an excellent view of the eastern basin of Lake Balaton, where you can see the Tihany Peninsula and also spot the towers of the larger hotels in Balatonfüred.

Visitor Information:

• Address: 8230 Balatonfüred
• Walk up Siske Street, then turn right at the mill.
• Availability: Open for free visits, no official contact information.