End-of-summer bargains: Vacationing at Lake Balaton could be up to 20% cheaper

This past weekend marked the peak season at Lake Balaton, but for those planning a trip now, there are opportunities to vacation at up to 20% less cost. Travellers willing to bike or walk 15 to 30 minutes to reach the shore could find accommodation near the lake for as little as HUF 7,000 (EUR 17.77) per person, even during the busiest times.

Vacation at Lake Balaton for lower prices!

Siófok, Lake Balaton. Photo: depositphotos.com

Despite the common concern about crowds and lack of availability around 20 August, the situation is more nuanced, Világgazdaság reports. Last-minute searches on various booking platforms revealed that good value accommodations were still available, with options for two people costing between HUF 15,000 and 20,000 (EUR 38 and 50.78), according to Tamás Fekete, Vice President of the Balaton Tourism Association.

Among the larger properties, some were offered at HUF 7,000 (EUR 17.77) per person for a single night this past weekend. These deals were primarily taken by cost-conscious travellers planning group or family getaways.

Fekete noted that those opting for such affordable accommodations are often more adventurous and less concerned about staying directly on the shore. They are generally willing to bike or walk to reach the lake and prefer tranquillity over the bustling lakeside, he added.

Looking ahead, prices are expected to drop in the coming weeks. This reduction is partly due to the availability of many well-priced rental properties around Balaton, with around 30,000 accommodation units recently updated through the Kisfaludy program.

Most of these properties are available year-round, not just in summer. Fekete believes that the current weekend had the highest prices of the season and that those planning their trip now can expect to save 15-20% in the following weeks.

During the long weekend, one in three travellers chose Lake Balaton for their vacation, with Siófok being the most popular destination. Other attractive spots included Hajdúszoboszló, Hévíz, Eger, and Szeged. Nearly half of the bookings were for three nights, and 26% of August’s online bookings used the SZÉP card for payment.

Read also:

• Lake Balaton waters warming at alarming rate: Future summers may leave no room to cool off
• Lake Balaton overrun with luxury properties and controversial projects

Featured image: depositphotos.com