Ever fantasized about sneaking into a forbidden industrial site? Now’s your legal chance. On July 27, 2025, get ready for the “The Factory Is Yours!” (Tiéd a gyár!) walking tour at the historic Inota Power Plant (Inotai Erőmű) in Várpalota. This revamped tour focuses on the essential, ground-level halls of Hungary’s iconic, now-abandoned power plant complex—a star not only of the national economy but also a recognizable movie set. Leave your “No Entry” worries behind; here, you’re encouraged to see what’s usually locked away.
From Industrial Pride to Film Stardom
Inota Power Plant (Inotai Erőmű), built as part of Hungary’s first five-year plan, was once at the heart of a bustling industrial town. Today, it stands deserted and crumbling, off-limits to the general public—except for tours like this. The walk takes you through atmospheric, retro-futuristic spaces: the boiler house (where Ryan Gosling wandered for Blade Runner 2049), the control room (used for the rocket launch scene in Lajkó – Gypsy in Space [Lajkó – Cigány az űrben]), and offers glimpses into the site’s iconic cooling towers.
Along the way, you’ll hear stories from the not-so-distant past: learn where Communist-era officials enjoyed the thermal baths, who lived in the nearby emergency residential blocks, and what “the good life” really meant during the Kádár years. If you’re into retro, love unique film locations, or just want a rare adventure, this is your ticket inside.
What to Expect on the Tour
This tour is a streamlined, more accessible version of the original “It Was Great at Inota” (Csúcs volt Inotán) walk, so you’ll stroll roughly 1 mile (1.5 km) over two hours. The easy route covers just the ground floors—no stamina marathons required. Expect to see the boiler and turbine rooms, control center, and one of the cooling towers. (If you’re interested in an in-depth exploration of the Béke Cultural House [Béke Művelődési Ház], join their “Powerplant Art” [Erőművészet] tour instead.)
The meeting point is outside the power plant entrance, just beyond the bus stop at Erőmű Street (Erőmű utca), near the roundabout—look for the left turn. Pathways lead between the decaying giant’s buildings, perfect for jaw-dropping photo ops—though you’ll have to take pictures on the move, as the schedule is tight. If you’re interested only in photography, consider their specialized photo tours.
Planning Your Visit
Entry is $21 per person (7900 HUF), payable upon online registration. If you’re buying the experience as a gift or haven’t picked your date yet, you can purchase a gift voucher for $18 (6900 HUF). Tour dates are listed on the organizer’s website, and you can even book a private group walk. Every participant is issued a safety helmet for free—you must wear it for the entire tour. The minimum age is 10, and the event is also available in English.
Suggested gear: season-appropriate sportswear, sturdy shoes with thick soles to protect your feet, and a flashlight. Please leave valuables at home and avoid large bags—one small backpack is allowed per person. Free parking is available right at the plant’s entrance.
Public transportation gets you there easily: take an intercity bus and get off at the Aluminum Plant entrance (Erőmű housing estate [Erőmű lakótelep]). Follow the well-trodden path from Route 8’s Aluminum Plant side stop, then cross the small roundabout at Erőmű Street (Erőmű utca) to reach your destination.
One caveat: you’re responsible for your own safety—organizers take no responsibility for accidents. So, tread carefully in those haunted halls!
Where to Eat and Stay in Várpalota
If you’re coming from out of town or want to make a weekend of it, a couple of local highlights await. Fenyves Lake Rest Park (Fenyves-tavi Pihenőpark) boasts three comfortable, winterized wooden cabins (sleeping five each) right on the lakeshore, complete with kitchens, fridges, and private docks—ideal for a relaxing fishing trip before or after your urban exploration.
Right in downtown Várpalota on Route 8, Two Owls Inn (Két Bagoly Fogadó) offers year-round lodging for travelers and tourists, known for its wide variety of creamy and buttery cakes, sweet and savory pastries, and specialty made-to-order cakes.
For meals, the city’s central Restaurant sits next to Zichy Castle (Zichy kastély) and a 17th-century Roman Catholic church, offering free parking for guests and an easy stroll from the heart of town. Or, drop by Vár Bistro for food, drinks, and special events in a historical setting.
Tour organizers reserve the right to change the program or the date, so check the official site before you go. When it comes to exploring forbidden spaces, this is your chance—no permission slip required.
