Every Wednesday and Saturday, the Fonyód Market (Fonyódi Piac) pulses with life in the town center, welcoming locals and vacationers to shop, eat, and discover hidden gems. Covering almost 7 acres, this bustling open-air market is more than just a place to buy groceries—it’s a tourist attraction that turns an ordinary shopping trip into an adventure. From fresh produce to antiques, Fonyód Market offers nearly everything you can imagine, making it a must-visit for anyone staying by Lake Balaton (Balaton).
Market Life in the Heart of Fonyód
The market sits conveniently at the end of Blaha Lujza Street (Blaha Lujza utca), right next to Highway 7 (7-es főút), making it easy to reach whether you’re walking, biking, or driving—ample parking is available. Rain or shine, the market operates all year: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the off-season and 5 a.m. to 4 p.m. in high season. Under its yellow tents and in the covered halls, you’ll find a vibrant array of stalls: vegetables, fruit, honey, dried flowers, artisanal crafts, folk art, used and antique books, paintings, housewares, and more. Local producers fill the indoor hall with fresh goods, while outside, treasure hunters rummage through antiques hoping to stumble upon their next collectible.
Accommodations with a View
Beyond the bustle of the lakeside resort, nestled on a peninsula in the middle of the Nagyberek (Great Fen) nature reserve, stands the elegant Boros Castle Guesthouse (Boros Kastély Vendégház). Perfect for groups of up to 26, this manor offers a cozy yet upscale setting surrounded by spectacular views of the Fonyód hills and pristine wilderness. Inside, guests can choose from ten freshly renovated en-suite rooms, including double rooms and spacious four-bed suites with terraces. Special sailing trips, boat rides, and wine tastings are regularly offered to make group getaways, company events, or team-building sessions unforgettable.
Meanwhile, the Funoldi Guesthouse (Funoldi Vendégház) offers a peaceful retreat in one of Fonyód’s best neighborhoods. Known as an ideal site for conferences and relaxation alike, the top floor features a separate apartment with three bedrooms (two doubles and one triple), a kitchen, dining room, bathroom with tub, two WCs, and private stairway access. A large enclosed yard boasts a garden grill, swing bed, fire cauldron, sandbox, pool, and parking—ideal for families, friends, or anyone seeking tranquility and panoramic beauty.
Apartment Life by the Water
In a quiet cul-de-sac just five minutes from the public beach at Fonyódliget, air-conditioned two-bedroom apartments beckon guests seeking both privacy and convenience. Each 430-square-foot unit is located inside a secured, landscaped lot and is SZÉP Card (Széchenyi Recreation Card) friendly, making payment easy for domestic travelers. Year-round, separate-entry apartments with stunning lake views line Fonyód’s southern shore, providing visitors of all ages with a warm welcome and a breathtaking start to each day.
The high-tech Sunset Resort – Lakeside Boutique Apartments elevates things with its semi-automated smart house right on the lake. Offering a range of premium apartments, unique in-house programs, and full-service amenities, the resort is designed for those who want to enjoy the best of Balaton relaxation with modern living.
Even closer to the water, an American-style kitchen apartment with panoramic northern views waits just one minute from the lakeshore, inviting guests to soak up the sun by day and admire the sunset by night.
Food, Drink, and a Taste of Fonyód
On the main square, My Kitchen Studio 365 (Konyhám Stúdió 365) takes dining and atmosphere seriously, offering unforgettable culinary experiences with Balaton-view tables. More than just a restaurant, it’s an invitation to savor artfully crafted flavors and celebrate life’s small joys. If you’re hungry for something quick, Barbakán in Fonyód’s center serves up Fornetti pastries, grilled sandwiches, confectionery cakes, homemade lemonade, specialty coffees, and draft beer. In summer, find soft ice cream and slushies; in winter, the cozy interior and free Wi-Fi attract digital nomads and families alike.
For something quieter, Green Garden Restaurant (Zöldkert Vendéglő) sits shaded by trees in the Fonyódliget Holiday Park. Its guesthouse apartments offer a peaceful and leafy escape, perfect for unwinding after a busy day at the market or the beach.
Staying in the Action
Hotel Balaton stands proudly in Fonyód’s city center, just 330 feet from the marina and a little over 800 feet from the beach. With space for 50 guests, the hotel’s rooms come fully equipped: showers, minibars, cable TV, smoke detectors, and fire alarms ensure comfort and security. Their apartments feature kitchenettes—ideal for long stays or families in need of flexibility.
No matter where you choose to stay or what you’re shopping for, Fonyód Market and its picturesque surroundings promise authentic experiences, hidden treasures, and a taste of Hungarian hospitality. Just be aware: event dates and programs may change, so watch for updates before you pack your bags.
