Lake Balaton, often called the "Hungarian Sea," is Hungary's largest lake and a premier tourist destination, easily accessible by car, train, and bus from major Hungarian cities. Visitors can readily explore solo, enjoying cycling paths, swimming, and charming lakeside towns, though guided tours are available for specific interests such as wine tasting or historical excursions. The peak season for watersports is summer (June-August), while spring and autumn offer ideal conditions for hiking and cycling with fewer crowds; winter can be beautiful but sees most tourist services closed. Costs are highly variable depending on accommodation and activities, typically ranging from a budget-friendly €50 to €100+ per person daily, and a visit can comfortably span from a long weekend (2-3 days) to a full week (5-7 days) to fully experience its warm, shallow waters, vineyards, spa towns, and cultural sites like Tihany Abbey.