Tapolca is a town in western Hungary, in Veszprém County, north of Lake Balaton, in the Bakony Forest. It has an area of 63.49 km², a population of 15,831, and a population density of 249.3 persons/km² (as of January 2011). From September 24-29, 1939, the Polish 10th Mounted Rifle Regiment (610 officers and soldiers), commanded by Major Emil Słatyński, was temporarily interned here in Hungary.
- Tapolca Caves. One of Tapolca’s greatest attractions are the caves located within the town. This unique system of underground passages and lakes is perfect for exploring. Visitors can explore the caves or even take a boat trip through their waters. The following attractions are worth seeing:
- Floating Lakes – a unique sight to admire during a cruise.
- Stalactites and stalagmites – interesting rock formations that delight visitors.
- Hiking Trails – well-marked trails for exploring the caves.
- Old Town. The Old Town of Tapolca is full of historic buildings and charming streets. Many monuments await architecture and history enthusiasts. Worth seeing are:
- The Reformed Church – an impressive 18th-century church.
- The Town Hall – an interesting building with a beautiful façade and a sundial.
- The Market Square – a meeting place where various cultural events take place.
- Lake Balaton. Its proximity to Lake Balaton makes Tapolca an excellent base for relaxation on the largest lake in Central Europe. The lake offers numerous attractions, such as:
- Water sports – sailing, windsurfing, and swimming.
- Beaches – perfect places for relaxation and sunbathing.
- Bike paths – numerous routes leading around the lake, ideal for cyclists.
- Tapolca Museum. The Tapolca Museum offers a fascinating insight into the history and culture of the region. Exhibitions include local flora and fauna, as well as the geological history of the area. The museum is an excellent place for those who want to learn more about the region.
- Wines from the Badacsony region. Tapolca’s proximity to the Badacsony wine region makes it an ideal destination for wine lovers. Here, you can sample a variety of wines, including white and red wines. Visit local wineries and arrange a tasting.
- Botanical Garden. The Tapolca Botanical Garden is a wonderful place for nature lovers. It offers a rich collection of plants, flowers, and trees that you can admire while strolling. The garden is perfect for relaxing and learning about the local flora.
- Balaton-Felvidék National Park. Near Tapolca, Balaton-Felvidék National Park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The park offers numerous hiking trails leading through picturesque landscapes, hills, and valleys.
- Thermal Baths. The Tapolca area boasts a variety of thermal baths offering relaxation and rest. They are ideal places to recharge after a day of sightseeing. These baths feature various pools, saunas, and wellness areas.
- Festivals and Events. Tapolca hosts numerous festivals and cultural events throughout the year. It’s worth checking out the local events calendar to experience the city’s cultural life. These include:
- Wine Festival – an opportunity to sample local wines.
- Fairs – traditional events featuring local products.
- Cultural Performances – concerts, theater performances, and other attractions.
- Gastronomy. You can’t visit Tapolca without sampling the local cuisine. There are numerous restaurants serving Hungarian dishes in and around the town. Worth trying:
- Paprykarz – a traditional paprika goulash dish.
- Tökfőzelék – a pumpkin puree popular in the region.
- Langosz – fried dough served with various toppings.
