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Expat Exchange - Discovering the Best of Tihany 2024
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Discovering the Best of Tihany

By Betsy Burlingame

William Russell
William Russell

Summary: Discover the charm of Tihany with our guide to the city's top attractions, culinary hotspots, and vibrant nightlife. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, we'll also help you find the best recreational activities to enjoy, and offer advice on making lasting connections with the friendly locals.

Welcome to Tihany! If you're planning to move to Tihany, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Tihany has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Tihany.

Tihany, a small village located on the northern shore of Lake Balaton in Hungary, is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural attractions. The village is situated on the Tihany Peninsula, which is famous for its stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside. Some of the most popular sites of interest in Tihany include:

1. Tihany Abbey: This Benedictine monastery, founded in 1055, is one of the most important historical landmarks in Hungary. The abbey church, built in the Baroque style, houses the tomb of King Andrew I, who founded the monastery. Visitors can also explore the abbey's museum, which showcases the history of the monastery and the region.

2. Tihany Echo: The Tihany Echo is a natural phenomenon that occurs due to the unique acoustics of the peninsula. The echo can be heard from a specific spot near the abbey, where the sound of your voice bounces off the hills and returns to you. This phenomenon has been a popular attraction since the 18th century.

3. Lavender fields: Tihany is famous for its lavender fields, which bloom in June and July. The village hosts an annual Lavender Festival, where visitors can participate in lavender harvesting, attend workshops, and purchase lavender products.

4. Bels?-tó (Inner Lake): This small freshwater lake, located within the Tihany Peninsula, is a popular spot for birdwatching and nature walks. The lake is surrounded by reed beds and marshlands, which are home to various bird species, including herons, egrets, and bitterns.

5. Tihany Open-Air Museum: This outdoor museum showcases the traditional architecture and lifestyle of the region. Visitors can explore the reconstructed peasant houses, workshops, and farm buildings, and learn about the local crafts and trades.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Tihany is relatively small but offers a variety of options for visitors to enjoy. Some of the most popular restaurants and bars in Tihany include:

1. Révész Restaurant: This family-run restaurant is known for its traditional Hungarian cuisine, including dishes such as goulash, stuffed peppers, and chimney cake. The restaurant also offers a beautiful view of Lake Balaton from its terrace.

2. Márga Bistro: Located near the Tihany Abbey, Márga Bistro offers a modern twist on Hungarian cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients. The bistro also has an extensive wine list, featuring wines from the Balaton region.

3. Echo Restaurant: This fine dining restaurant, situated in a renovated 18th-century building, offers a fusion of Hungarian and international cuisine. The restaurant's terrace provides a stunning view of Lake Balaton and the Tihany Peninsula.

4. Apátsági Rege Cukrászda: This popular café and pastry shop, located near the Tihany Abbey, is famous for its delicious cakes, pastries, and ice cream. The café's terrace offers a beautiful view of the lake and the surrounding countryside.

5. Kalandor Pub: This cozy pub, located in the heart of Tihany, offers a selection of local and international beers, as well as live music and pub games.

Recreational activities in Tihany are centered around the natural beauty of the peninsula and Lake Balaton. Some popular activities and places to enjoy them include:

1. Hiking and biking: The Tihany Peninsula offers numerous hiking and biking trails, which provide stunning views of the lake and the surrounding countryside. The Tihany Landscape Protection Area, a nature reserve on the peninsula, is a popular destination for nature lovers.

2. Water sports: Lake Balaton is a popular destination for water sports, such as sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. The Tihany Sailing Club offers sailing lessons and boat rentals for visitors.

3. Beaches: Tihany has several beaches along the shores of Lake Balaton, where visitors can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy various water activities. Some popular beaches include Gödrös Beach, Sajkod Beach, and Visszhang Beach.

4. Fishing: The waters of Lake Balaton and the Inner Lake are home to various fish species, making them popular spots for fishing. Visitors can obtain a fishing permit and rent equipment from local providers.

5. Wine tasting: The Balaton region is known for its wine production, and visitors can enjoy wine tasting at local wineries, such as the Pannonhalma Wine Terrace and the Figula Winery.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Tihany: Making the Most of Life and Connections

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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