The famous abbey which overlooks the Balaton's waters is a landmark of the village. It was built by King Andrew I, who was buried in the crypt in 1055. The church itself, however, was rebuilt in Baroque style in 1754, and still functions today. Having operated as Tihany's cultural center for centuries, the church is also frequently host to organ concerts during the summer season. Additionally, the viewpoint of the lake next to the church is always one of the best in the area any time of year. Outwards from the abbey, the village sprawls into busy squares and quaint residential streets. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes with views of the lake, as well as opportunities for buying local goods and crafts.
Another popular attraction is the Tihany echo - a single point where the unique landscape acoustics return the echo of your voice perfectly from the open hillside of Tihany. This spot is a site of many local legends which feed the culture of the area.
Also unique to the peninsula are its large fields of lavender, which bloom with fragrance and color in the spring. Lavender House Visitor Centre offers a place where visitors can learn more about the history of the Tihnay peninsula, as well as the region's lavender-growing culture.
Another very interesting spot to see in Tihany is the medieval hermitage just north of the town. These living spaces, complete with cells, dining room, and a chapel, were carved out of the rock of the hill in the 11-14th century by Greek Orthodox hermits. This site, the abbey, and the village together make the peninsula as a whole an impressive historic district.
The best way to experience Tihany is to explore the village on foot, appreciating the medieval history of the abbey and surrounding area, and taking in the intricate details of the modern culture's day-to-day life and customs. Spend the day shopping for locals goods, dining by the water, or sipping regional wines, or get out on the water via boat or ferry to appreciate the beauty of Hungary's largest lake. Lake Balaton is also a prime location for activities like swimming, sailing, and kitesurfing, while some of the nearby towns also have thermal spas for relaxation and healing. Just north of the lake, the hills of the Balaton Uplands National Park are also a great place for hiking and catching sight of some of the local wildlife.
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Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Tihany. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Discover Keszthely: Charming Walking Tour for $94 details
- Romantic tour around Keszthely for couples for $94 details
- Special Magical Christmas Walking Tour in Keszthely for $208 details