A beloved ritual in the Káli Basin, the Liliomkert Market in Káptalantóti opens every Sunday, drawing loyal regulars and curious newcomers to one of the prettiest corners of the Balaton Uplands. Conceived and created by biologist-engineer Ildikó Harmathy, the now nationally famed market thrives on simple pleasures: arrive hungry, wander slowly, and taste everything. Between baskets of crackling-sprinkled, cheesy pogácsa, fragrant mounds of caraway rolls, and oven-hot, sour-cream-topped Hungarian flatbread (kenyérlángos), resistance is futile—snacking becomes the main event.
Where and when
Located at 8283 Káptalantóti, Petőfi St. 1, the market runs year-round, every Sunday from 7:00 to 14:00. Next highlighted date: 2025.12.28 (Sunday), Káptalantóti. Crowds peak in the late morning, so early birds glide through more easily.
How it started
What began as a casual chat among friends blossomed into one of the region’s buzziest meeting spots for producers and shoppers—some traveling from far beyond Lake Balaton. The charm lies in face-to-face encounters: makers stand by their goods, offer tastes, swap stories, and sell fresh, quality produce directly.
What to try and take home
– Foods: farmhouse cheeses, fresh pork cracklings, ham, syrups, preserves, fresh and dried fruits, artisanal breads, cakes, and strudel (rétes) in all kinds of flavors.
– Drinks: homemade syrups, pálinka, local wines.
– Crafts: carvings, handmade ornaments, white ceramics with lavender and rose motifs, one-of-a-kind gifts.
– Antiques: vintage objects, books, curiosities.
Good to know
Bring cash—card payments aren’t universal. Come with an appetite and time to browse; the market is as much about community as it is about shopping.
