Discover the Hidden Charm of Lake Balaton, Hungary: A Weekend Marathon That Boosted Off-Season Tourism

Published on November 24, 2025

One of Hungary’s most popular tourist destinations, Lake Balaton, is well-known for its stunning scenery and lively summertime vibe. But it’s becoming more and more obvious that this lovely area offers more than a summer getaway. Last weekend’s 22nd Balaton Marathon and Half Marathon was a game-changer, proving that Lake Balaton is equally appealing to tourists outside of the busiest time of year. In addition to offering an exciting athletic experience, this event, which was held in the southern regions of the lake with its busy shores at Sěfok and Fonyň, boosted local businesses’ economies.

Lake Balaton Becomes a Year-Round Destination

Traditionally, Lake Balaton has been synonymous with summer getaways, as its warm waters and lively tourist scene attract millions each year. However, this weekend’s event challenged the idea that the region is a seasonal tourist destination. The Balaton Marathon and Half Marathon, organised by the Budapest Sports Office, saw over 5,000 participants and their companions travel to the region, even with the chilly November weather. This event’s success signals a significant shift, showcasing Lake Balaton’s growing appeal throughout the year, not just during the summer months.

The sporting event unfolded across two days, drawing a crowd of runners who braved the cold to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The organisers cleverly arranged the marathon at two separate locations for the first time in its history: the festivities began in Siófok on Saturday and continued in Fonyód on Sunday. The event not only attracted athletes but also tourists eager to witness the unique landscapes and cultural offerings of these two southern lakeside towns.

Economic Impact for the Local Region

While the marathon was a major highlight for participants, its impact was also felt throughout the local community. The influx of over 5,000 runners and their families provided a significant economic boost to the area, especially considering the event took place well outside the traditional tourist season. Local accommodation providers, restaurants, and businesses in both Siófok and Fonyód benefited immensely. The event’s success in generating off-season revenue for these areas highlights the potential of sports tourism as an effective way to drive economic growth in lesser-explored seasons.

A Dual-Location Event: Expanding the Experience

This year’s marathon marked a historic shift by expanding across two locations, with Siófok serving as the centre of attention on Saturday and Fonyód playing host on Sunday. The dual-location format not only provided participants with variety but also allowed them to experience the diverse offerings of the southern shore of Lake Balaton. Runners were greeted by both the lively, bustling atmosphere of Siófok and the more tranquil, scenic beauty of Fonyód.

The Siófok half marathon proved to be the most popular discipline, attracting the highest number of participants. However, Fonyód also saw a surge in interest, thanks in part to the new route that included the challenging climb up Castle Hill (Várhegy). This demanding section not only tested the endurance of the runners but also offered them stunning panoramic views, making it a memorable experience for all involved.

A Growing Attraction for Tourists Across Hungary

Interestingly, the majority of marathon participants hailed from Budapest, Pest County, and other distant regions of Hungary. This out-of-town crowd brought added value to the local economy, as these visitors explored the attractions and beauty of the region. For many, the event served as an opportunity to experience Lake Balaton in a different light, showcasing the region’s charm during the autumn months. Local hotels, restaurants, and shops found themselves busy welcoming these guests, making the marathon an essential event in promoting off-season tourism.

Equally notable was the strong showing of local runners. Over 550 participants from the neighbouring counties of Somogy, Veszprém, and Zala took part in the event, competing in their home region and contributing to the sense of community pride. The presence of these local athletes not only added to the competitive spirit but also reinforced the idea that Lake Balaton, often associated with international visitors, has a thriving local sports culture.

Gender Balance and Medal Traditions

One of the unique aspects of the Balaton Marathon and Half Marathon was the balance between male and female participants. The gender ratio was almost equal, with 52% male runners and 48% female runners. This speaks to the inclusive nature of the event, attracting a wide demographic of athletes from all walks of life. Regardless of their background or experience, all finishers were rewarded with a special medal that symbolised autumn at Lake Balaton, further cementing the event as a celebration of both the sport and the beauty of the region.

A Fitting End to the Regional Running Season

With the conclusion of the 22nd Balaton Marathon, the Budapest Sports Office wrapped up its regional running season. The success of this event was a clear sign that the marathon has not only grown in popularity but also solidified its role as a key attraction for Lake Balaton’s tourism. This was the final major event of the year for the region, as the sports office looks ahead to its next big event, the 10th-anniversary PENNY Nikolauslauf in Budapest on December 7.

The growing success of marathons like the Balaton Marathon is setting the stage for Lake Balaton to become an increasingly important player in Hungary’s off-season tourism strategy. Beyond the warm months, the region’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and sporting events promise to keep attracting visitors year-round.

Lake Balaton’s Rising Appeal for Year-Round Tourism

It became evident that Lake Balaton is more than just a summertime destination as the marathon concluded with applause and festivities. The recent incident demonstrated that the area has a distinct allure even in the winter. Lake Balaton is rapidly growing into a year-round destination for travelers and athletes alike thanks to its gorgeous scenery, varied cultural offerings, and booming local economy. The organizers of the event hope that the success of this year’s marathon will encourage more events of a similar nature, solidifying the lake’s standing as one of Hungary’s top tourist destinations year-round.