24 Apr 2025
Unless you drive in Hungary, it is difficult to get to this amazing national park. Tapolca Cave was surreal, and Lake Balaton was beautiful to sit by the cafe and take in the scenery. Highly recommend going there in late spring when it's a bit warmer. The main advantage of going on this tour with Peter (the driver) is that he can drive you to wherever you want to go in the area, and he's very flexible with your schedule and your physical limitations, as long as you communicate that beforehand. He spends the entire day with you driving you around, so make the most out of this tour by preparing and looking up places you'd like to go around Tapolca Cave and Lake Balaton area (like restaurants, coffee shops, gift shops, etc). While this plan is not included, rest assured, Peter can recommend places to go if you're booking last minute.
What to expect: From the center of Budapest, it takes about 2-2.5 hours by car, one way. Peter gives you a ride to the cave, and you get your private time walking/rowing through the cave (tickets included--and you have to row around yourself). Other than that, Peter walks around with you the entire day (although, I'm sure if you asked him for privacy, he'd probably let you be alone). Lunch is not included, but if you have a budget or time limitations/dietary restrictions, Peter can drive you to wherever you need to go. This area is not yet fully tourist-centric, so there aren't many giftshops around, but I did see lavender shops, which I later realized the area was known for producing. The key is communicating what you want out of the trip with Peter, and he'll make accommodations, which I believe is the highlight of this tour package.