The Balaton Lake Region in Hungary is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. The region is well-served by a variety of public transportation options, including trains, buses, and ferries. The Hungarian State Railways (MÁV), Volánbusz, and Balaton Shipping Company (BAHART) are the main providers of public transportation in the area. With these options, it is entirely possible for an expat living in the Balaton Lake Region to comfortably live without a car, relying on the public transportation system and walking.
Trains
The Hungarian State Railways (MÁV) operates an extensive network of trains in the Balaton Lake Region. The trains are a popular choice for both locals and tourists due to their efficiency and affordability. The train system is safe to use at any time of the day, making it a reliable option for women traveling alone or children going to school. A single ticket costs around 300 HUF (approximately 1 USD), but there are also various discounts available for students, seniors, and families. The trains run along the northern and southern shores of Lake Balaton, connecting all major towns and cities in the region. For example, the journey from Budapest to Siófok, a popular resort town on the southern shore of Lake Balaton, takes around 1.5 hours by train.
Buses
Volánbusz, the national bus company, provides regular bus services in the Balaton Lake Region. The buses are a convenient way to travel between smaller towns and villages that are not served by the train network. The bus system is safe and reliable, with modern vehicles and professional drivers. A single ticket costs around 400 HUF (approximately 1.3 USD), but discounts are available for certain groups of passengers. The buses operate on a regular schedule, but it’s worth noting that they can get quite crowded during the peak tourist season in the summer.
Ferries
The Balaton Shipping Company (BAHART) operates a fleet of ferries on Lake Balaton. The ferries offer a unique and scenic way to travel between towns and cities on the northern and southern shores of the lake. The ferry service is safe and reliable, with modern vessels and professional crew. A single ticket costs around 1,000 HUF (approximately 3.3 USD), making it a slightly more expensive option compared to trains and buses. However, the unique experience of traveling by ferry on Lake Balaton is well worth the extra cost. The ferries operate on a regular schedule, but it’s worth noting that they can get quite busy during the peak tourist season in the summer.
In conclusion, the Balaton Lake Region in Hungary offers a variety of public transportation options that make it possible for an expat to live comfortably without a car. Whether you prefer to travel by train, bus, or ferry, you can be sure to find a safe, reliable, and affordable way to get around the region.
