Sümeg

Sümeg is dominated by its impressive fortress, built in the 13th century after the Mongol invasion by order of King Béla IV. It is one of the few Hungarian castles that was never captured during the Ottoman wars. Today, the castle is a lively center for medieval enthusiasts, known for its daily knight tournaments and historical re-enactments. The climb to the castle is rewarded with a remarkable panoramic view of the Bakony Mountains. At the foot of the castle hill lies the Baroque town, featuring the grand Bishop's Palace built in the 18th century. Another highlight is the parish church, whose frescoes by Franz Anton Maulbertsch earned it the nickname 'the Sistine Chapel of Hungary.' Sümeg served as a significant religious and cultural hub for centuries. Visitors should try the hearty medieval-style cuisine at the castle's tavern, where spit-roasted meats are a staple. Sümeg is located about 20 kilometers north of Lake Balaton and is easily accessible via main road 84. The best time to visit is during the summer months when the grand Historical Equestrian Games take place.

Nearby cities

Veszprém

Veszprém, the 'City of Queens,' is located on the picturesque hills of the Bakony Forest near Lake Balaton.

Pápa

Historic city with Baroque architecture and a famous thermal bath.

Magyarpolány

Magyarpolány is an award-winning heritage village located on the southwestern slopes of the Bakony Mountains, celebrated for its exceptio…

Tapolca

City on the edge of the Balaton Uplands, famous for its lake cave.

Balatonfüred

The oldest resort on Lake Balaton, known for its healing springs.

Balatonalmádi

A charming town on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, characterized by red sandstone, lush parks, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Somlóvásárhely

Somlóvásárhely is situated at the southern foot of Mount Somló, an iconic basalt witness mountain that hosts Hungary's smallest yet most …

Herend

World-famous for its porcelain manufactory, operating since 1826.

Badacsonytomaj

Badacsonytomaj is the vibrant heart of the Badacsony wine region, located at the eastern foot of the majestic volcanic plateau of the sam…

Bakonynána

Bakonynána is a tranquil village in the Eastern Bakony region, celebrated primarily for its extraordinary geological formations and sceni…

Bakonyszentlászló

Bakonyszentlászló is the gateway to the picturesque Cuha Valley and serves as a major tourist hub in the northern Bakony Mountains.

Nagyvázsony

Nagyvázsony is a historic gem located at the meeting point of the Balaton Uplands and the Bakony Mountains, deeply embedded in Hungarian …

Csopak

Csopak is famous for its premium white wines, award-winning beach, and picturesque water mills along the brook.

Paloznak

Paloznak is one of the most elegant and meticulously preserved villages on Lake Balaton’s northern shore, nestled between the blue waters…

Tihany area Örvényes / Balatonudvari

Quiet lakeside villages on Lake Balaton, famous for heart-shaped tombstones and a historic water mill.

History & landmarks

Sümeg Castle

Imposing fortress towering over the town of Sümeg on a hill.

Somló Castle

Picturesque castle ruins on the volcanic Somló mountain.

Badacsony

Volcanic mountain at Lake Balaton, famous for its wines and basalt formations.

Kinizsi Castle

Historic castle once owned by the legendary Paul Kinizsi.

Balaton Uplands NP

Diverse landscape with volcanic hills and lavender fields.

Tihany Lavender Fields

Beautiful lavender fields that turn the peninsula purple in June.

Tihany

Peninsula in Lake Balaton, famous for its Benedictine abbey and lavender fields.

Old Bakony

The core of the Bakony forest with dense beech woods.

Nature

Lake Balaton

The largest lake in Central Europe and a popular holiday destination.

More places

Sümeg Castle

Sümeg Castle is one of the country's most impressive and best-preserved fortifications.