A story by Nina Begesh, a communications and administration professional and a holder of the Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship. Nina is of Hungarian origin on her father’s side and she has been living in Hungary since 2023. She strongly identifies with Hungarian culture, traditions, and values, and supports the mission of Hungarian communities across borders to preserve cultural identity and build meaningful connections within the global Hungarian network.

Summer in Hungary has a very special atmosphere, and for many people one place becomes the center of it — Lake Balaton.

Before moving to Hungary, I had heard many times that Balaton is “the Hungarian sea.” But only after visiting it myself did I understand why people love it so much.

What makes Balaton special is not only the lake itself, but the whole feeling around it. Summer there feels calm, simple, and very real. Families ride bicycles, children eat ice cream near the water, people spend long evenings outside, and everything feels slower in the best possible way.

I especially loved the small towns around the lake. Each one has its own atmosphere — little cafés, walking paths, boats, markets, and quiet streets full of flowers during summer.

There is also something very nostalgic about Balaton. Many Hungarian families have memories connected to it from childhood, and you can feel that emotional connection everywhere.

For me, one of the nicest parts was simply watching everyday summer life there. People swimming, talking, relaxing, eating lángos near the beach, or sitting together during sunset.

Balaton does not try to impress people in a loud way. Its beauty is soft and peaceful. And maybe that is exactly why so many people love returning there every summer.

After visiting it, I finally understood that Balaton is not just a holiday destination in Hungary. For many people, it is part of their happiest memories.

by Nina Begesh