Perched on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, Tihany is picturesque village dominated by a centuries-old Benedictine monastery. It has long been famed for its echo, which is associated with a local legend about a cursed princess who is imprisoned nearby.
For sweeping views across Lake Balaton, head to the magnificent Tihany Abbey, which was originally founded in the 11th century by King Andrew I of Hungary. It was rebuilt in a Baroque style in 1754, with beautiful frescoes painted by Karoly Lotz decorating its church ceiling. Art exhibitions and concerts are occasionally held here.
One of Tihany’s most popular attractions is the Lavender Field, which was established by a botanist following World War I. Sprawling across 100 hectares, it is a sight to behold when in bloom and home to a shop where you can purchase lavender products, such as fragrant pillows and essential oils.
Getting there
Tihany is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Budapest and just under two hours from Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. Trains connect to the nearby Aszófő railway station, from where buses continue to Tihany. The village is small enough to explore on foot.