Keszthely, Hungary

A tradition of freethinking that dates back to the eighteenth century gives KESZTHELY a sense of superiority over other resorts, and its university ensures that life isn't wholly taken over by tourism. Perched at the far western tip of the lake, and the hub of several ferry, bus and train routes, the town gracefully absorbs thousands of visitors during peak season and yet manages not to look bleak and abandoned the rest of the year. With the Belváros and Festetics Palace to admire, and a thermal lake awaiting bathers at nearby Hévíz, Keszthely is one of the most appealing and enjoyable towns on Balaton. It's also the best place from which to approach the attractions at Kis-Balaton.