Jókai Park – Rose Grove – Harbour in Siófok

When the weather isn’t ideal for the beach, the constant question is what to do. Siófok is just a stone’s throw away from Zamárdi, and it’s worth spending a day here. You can drive, but it’s also easily accessible by train. By bike, it’s only about a half-hour ride.

If you follow the Sió Canal down to the shore of Lake Balaton, you’ll take a wonderful journey back in time: a few beautiful villas from the old peaceful days have been preserved.

Jókai park

Jókai park
The entrance in spring

To the right, you’ll find a park named after the famous Hungarian writer Mór Jókai. This park offers a peaceful retreat with its charming pathways and benches. You can admire colourful water lilies in the small pond during the summer months. The park is also home to several statues and memorials.

Vízililiomok nyáron | water lillies in summer
Water lillies in summer

Rose Grove

Rózsakert tulipánokkal |Rose Grove with tulips
Rose Grove with tulips in spring

As you reach the shore, you can explore the enchanting Rose Garden, which is beautiful not only in summer but also in spring and autumn. The garden features a wide variety of roses, carefully curated to create a stunning display of colours and fragrances throughout the blooming seasons.

In late spring, the floral display does not disappoint, with tulips taking centre stage. The plane trees along the promenade exude a turn-of-the-century atmosphere.

Rózsakert tavasszal | Rose Grove in spring
inviting arbours

Harbour

Harbour - early spring

At the harbour, you can admire some beautiful old and new boats, and if you’re lucky, you might witness a pirate conquest. Be sure to walk to the end of the pier and enjoy the breathtaking panorama of Lake Balaton. The harbour is also a starting point for various boat trips and excursions, check our what is available.

Here you will find Mustafa Restaurant, which I have recommended in another post

Kalózok | pirates
Pirates arriving

If we walk back from the shore along a different route and turn in at the other end of Jókai Park, continuing down Batthyány Lajos Street, we can further enjoy the turn-of-the-century atmosphere.

Of course there are many other activities that await you in Siófok. From visiting the Siófok Water Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the town and lake, to enjoying a film at the cinema, Siófok has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing by the water, this town is a perfect destination for a memorable day trip.

századfordulós villa | turn-of-the-century villa
turn-of-the-century villa
sokat megélt platánfa | weathered plane tree
weathered plane tree

Where?

Approximately 10 km from Zamárdi.

How to get there?

Public transportation

From the Zamárdi felső railway station, you can take a bus or, of course, a train to the Siófok bus station or railway station. Check the current timetable!

From there, walk back (towards Zamárdi) until you reach the Sió Canal. Turn right here.

By car or bike

If you want to enjoy the pleasant, holiday-like Balaton environment, the simplest way is to continue along Dessewffy Street and its continuation all the way to Siófok. In the city centre and at the port, parking is paid both in and out of season at some places. Check the details here or here.

kikötő | harbour

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