Slovakia is a fascinating nation in the center of Europe with a variety of landscapes, cities and villages with a rich history, and a changing society. We periodically provide you articles that are not just about things to do in Bratislava in order to give you some unfiltered insights. We look outside of the typical tourist paths.   While visiting Europe, Slovakia is a nation that is frequently missed. When CzechoSlovakia split in two Read More

Slovakia is a fascinating nation in the center of Europe with a variety of landscapes, cities and villages with a rich history, and a changing society. We periodically provide you articles that are not just about things to do in Bratislava in order to give you some unfiltered insights. We look outside of the typical tourist paths.

While visiting Europe, Slovakia is a nation that is frequently missed. When CzechoSlovakia split in two in 1993, the newly created Czech Republic preserved Prague, which continues to be its top tourist destination. The natural splendor, hiking routes, national parks, cuisine, and general accessibility of this lovely country should surely not be disregarded, though.

Choose from our recommended Slovakia tour packages:

Must-have experiences in Slovakia

Mountain hiking in the Tatras

A component of the broader Carpathian mountain group, the Tatras are a lesser-known mountain range in Europe. The best spot to trek and explore this remarkably unspoiled region of wild and untamed environment in the center of Eastern Europe is Slovakia. The Tatra Mountains are also an excellent location if you'd rather go skiing.

the eight wonderful national parks

It is pretty amazing that such a tiny nation has eight national parks, and this fact only becomes more astounding when you experience them for yourself. These parks' untamed, wild beauty is enough to make your eyes delighted for the rest of your life. For instance, Slovak Paradise is a fairly appropriate name for a place of high cliffs, waterfalls, and lush green forests.

Best sights on your Slovakia tour packages:

Bratislava (capital) (capital)

A city surrounded by mountains and vineyards is truly something out of a fairy tale. The only places to drive in the old center are pubs and cafés. The Bratislava Castle, which appears to be powerful, is perched above the hill, looking down on the city.

Kosice (403km from Bratislava)

The city of Kosice is known for its gothic cathedrals, cobblestone streets, and medieval past. It's the dream of every lover of Eastern Europe, and it's a lot more tranquil and remote than the capital.

Upper Tatras (320km from Bratislava)

A huge national park, unmatched in scope! You may go hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter in the High Tatras, where there are miles and miles of nothing but green and blue.

Bojnice (183km from Bratislava) (183km from Bratislava)

There are various amazing castles in Slovakia to explore on your Slovakia packages from India, but none compare to the one in Bojnice. A lovely green forest surrounds this fairytale castle with its towering stone walls, small windows, and pointed green turrets.

Castle Spis (366km from Bratislava)

The historical ruins of Spis Castle are all that are left of one of the biggest castle ruins in Europe, despite not being a well preserved castle. is currently recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Bardejov (444km from Bratislava) (444km from Bratislava)

Among the highlands of the Beskyd Mountains, there lies a sweet tiny ancient village with a town center that seems so medieval that you would think you've traveled back in time. a stunning, peaceful location that you must visit.

Best time to visit Slovakia:

Slovakia may get rather chilly in the winter, and there aren't as many things to do then. The longer length of the summer months gives you a fairly wide window of opportunity to go to and see Slovakia. Slovakia is warm enough from the beginning of April to the end of October to ensure that the entire nation is free for you to explore to your heart's content.

Information before you go on our Slovakia tour packages:

• EURO € is the official currency of Slovakia and Austria.

• NOT EUROS, but Czech Crowns (CZK) and Polish Zloty (PLN) are the official currencies in those countries.

• Your visa entrance is valid in all Schengen nations if you are heading to the European Union and require one (including Germany, Slovenia, Slovakia, Austria, Czechia, Poland etc.)

• The Slovakian capital of Bratislava is about 30 minutes away from Vienna airport, which is also near to Vienna.

• Low-cost and European-only carriers fly more often from Bratislava airport.

• City Rail offers the most direct route between Vienna Airport and the city center.

• The best way to go from Vienna Airport to Bratislava City is via coach. There are numerous links and consistent bus services available at all times. Instead, get in touch with us to arrange a transfer by car.

• Austria and Slovakia are more traditional countries. What does this mean? In Austria, almost all shops and shopping centers are closed on Sundays. In Slovakia, shops are closed during state holidays and also during Christmas and Easter time.

If you plan your holiday in Slovakia be aware of the following:

• On December 24, most stores stay open until at least 2:00 p.m.

• Shops, restaurants, and many hotels are CLOSED on December 25 and 26. A handful could be open on December 26 in the afternoon or evening, but most start operating on December 27.

• On December 31, businesses are open.

• Public holiday on January 1; all businesses, including numerous eateries, are closed.

• On December 24 to December 26, all museums, castles, and other public spaces are closed.

• As a result, on December 24, 25, and 26—the days surrounding Christmas—you cannot visit castles or museums.

Compared to Christmas, Easter is a little different. Hotels and restaurants are open on Easter. On Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday, however, all businesses are closed. There may just be a few small stores and grocers operating.

Be advised that on your Slovakia packages from India, the High Tatras National Park is the most visited location in Slovakia during the summer if you intend to travel there. Avoid the latter week of August if you want to visit Slovakia in August. A lot of Slovaks take advantage of the public holiday on August 29 by traveling across the nation to spend a long weekend in the mountains, particularly if the day occurs on a Thursday or Friday. Hence, several national parks, including the High and Low Tatras, are crowded. Traditional Slovak attractions are also affected.

Places to visit in Slovakia on our Slovakia packages:

Bratislava

Slovakia's capital, Bratislava, is such an underestimated destination that it is sometimes only thought of as a day excursion from Budapest or Vienna. Yet, the city has a lot to offer, and Bratislava's attractions will keep you occupied for at least the weekend. You will explore the little but incredibly picturesque Old Town, which is home to odd sculptures like Cumil in addition to meandering streets and lovely mansions. Although it is a fascinating destination to visit, the castle perched high above the city provides a lovely view of Bratislava, particularly its Petrzalka area with its vibrant apartment buildings.

Much greater views of Bratislava may be had from the city's most recognizable building, the UFO-shaped bridge across the Danube. A short distance from the Old Town, you may find other lesser-known but no less stunning Bratislava sights, including the Blue Church, an art-nouveau structure that appears like it belongs in a fairytale, or the radio broadcast building, a brutalist masterpiece that resembles a reverse pyramid. Visit the lovely Bratislava Flagship Restaurant for lunch and sample some of the delectable Slovakian cuisine. Moreover, Bratislava has a fantastic café scene with a wide variety of excellent cafes to select from for your coffee and cake break.

Overall on your Slovakia packages, this is a really lovely, laid-back city that doesn't really seem like the capital, where you can take your time traveling and take in the lively ambiance of Central Europe. Bratislava may serve as a starting point for a variety of day trips in Slovakia and elsewhere.

Devin castle

Although though Devin Castle, which is not far from Bratislava, is now largely in ruins, you can still see how spectacular it was when it stood guard over the capital, towering above the Danube. While it was first utilized in the ninth century, this location served as a Roman frontier station even before that. The Napoleonic army ultimately destroyed it in 1809 after it had played a significant role in the area for generations. Now, you may explore the castle's remains and learn more about its past, including the prehistoric eras, in the informative display.

Trnava

Even though it is sometimes disregarded by tourists on their Slovakia packages, Trnava is one of the most underappreciated tourist destinations in Slovakia. Trnava, which has a history that dates back to the Middle Ages and was the first location in Slovakia to be awarded the status of a free royal town, is sometimes referred to as "the Little Rome" because of the numerous churches that can still be seen there today. The majority of them may be found inside the Old Town, which is still protected by some of Europe's longest defensive walls.

The center, which is primarily pedestrian-only, is a great spot to explore, enjoy a coffee, or go to some municipal activities. As residents hang out there to enjoy the nice weather in the summer, it is extremely lively. You should climb the 16th-century town tower to gain a nice perspective of the area around the center and beyond. A 19th-century synagogue that was converted into a popular cafe where you can unwind with a drink in lovely surroundings is one of Trnava's most distinctive attractions.

Smolenice castle

The 14th-century sentry castle was replaced by a fairytale castle at Smolenice, which is close to Trnava. It underwent a number of reconstructions over the years until acquiring its present appearance in the 19th century. Although the castle is modeled after the finest examples of similarly styled building from France, it is now the best example of Roman architecture in Slovakia. Its towering tower, from which you may enjoy a stunning view of the surroundings, is its most remarkable feature. The Slovak Academy of Sciences is housed in the Smolenice castle, which only welcomes visitors in July and August.

Nitra

Nitra, the oldest city in Slovakia, was formed somewhere in the ninth century and has a history that dates back to the early medieval period. There are still many historical landmarks and attractions to be found there today, such as the Nitra Castle, which dates back to the 11th century and is dominated by the Cathedral of St. Emeram, a complex of three temples, the oldest of which is an 11th-century Romanesque cathedral. The charming center is surrounded by vibrant townhouses and meandering streets, which is a sight that is typical of Central Europe. Nitra also holds a prominent place on Slovakia's cultural map because to occasions like the Theatre Festival of Nitra. Locally, the Nitra area is renowned for its wine production.

Komarno

While traveling from Budapest to Bratislava, Komarno, a little city on the Danube that sits directly on the border between Slovakia and Hungary (the twin city across the river is named Komarom), is the ideal stop. Despite the city's lengthy history, there aren't many historical sites there due to the town rights given in 12625. With its Central European charm and distinctive architecture, it is still a great destination to visit. The fortification that was established in the 16th century and continued to be extended until the 19th century is likely the main draw. Don't miss Europe Square, sometimes called Courtyard of Europe, where each of the 36 structures here is created to symbolize a different nation.

Kosice

The second-largest city in Slovakia and one of the least popular tourist destinations in Europe is Kosice (Wepersonally prefer it over Bratislava and visited the place countless times). Kosice is a great destination for a weekend getaway and has a range of activities. Here, you may see the easternmost Gothic cathedral in all of Europe, explore the quaint old town, or watch a play at the stunning State Theater that dates back to the late 19th century. You may view the magnificent gold treasure, one of the greatest collections of its type, discovered during the restorations of Main Street in 1935, in the East Slovak Museum, one of the oldest and most significant museums in the nation.

Hlavna Street, often known as the Main Street, is where the majority of Kosice's attractions are situated. As the 2013 European Capital of Culture, Kosice continues to offer a variety of cultural attractions, including the former tobacco factory that has been transformed into a creative hub and the former swimming pool that now houses an art gallery. After all the touring, you may unwind with a delicious meal at one of the city's many eateries, wine bars, or cafés (where you can try local wines from the nearby Tokaj region).

Bardejov

One of the most attractive spots to visit in Slovakia is without a doubt Bardejov. In the country's northeast, close to the Polish border, lies the UNESCO-listed town, which was given the designation as the ideal example of a walled medieval town. Bardejov is really simple to fall for. The prettiest part of the town is the historic section, which is enclosed by the city walls (up until now, 9 towers and 2 gates were still present, earning Bardejov the moniker "Slovak Carcassonne") and features rows of colorful homes, interesting museums (like The Exposition of Icons), and the Saint Giles church, which dominates the area. For the greatest views of Bardejov and beyond, be sure to climb the church's tower. Bardejov, notably Bardejovske Kupele, its spa area is the perfect place to relax. 

Slovak Paradise

As its name suggests, Slovak Paradise National Park is a true paradise. The region, which is in the country's east and is just south of Poprad, is renowned for its gorges, waterfalls, and occasionally difficult trails to navigate (with ladders and such). Several hiking paths totaling around 300 km in length are available in the national park, and many of them will undoubtedly be exciting. The most well-known path is the magnificent "Prielom Hornádu" (the only trail that allows for two-way travel; all other trails are one-way), which leads along the Hornad river past bridges and occasionally even rickety metal stairs embedded in the rocks. Dobinská adová jaskya is another Slovak Paradise attraction that is not to be missed.

High Tatras

The Tatra Mountains, which are among the most stunning mountains in Europe and are situated on the border between Slovakia and Poland, are still not well known outside. You don't need to be an expert hiker to enjoy what the region has to offer because the environment is just stunning. There are more stunning summits available for many, like Lomnick Tt (2,632 meters above sea level), which you can climb to by using a system of three cable cars. Gerlachovsk Tt, the highest peak in the Tatras (and Slovakia), may be a bit difficult to get at 2,655 meters above sea level.

The three most well-known towns in the High Tatras are Tatranská Lomnica, Star Smokovec, and trbské Pleso. The High Tatras also contain a few more lovely towns. The final one is the one Westrongly advise since it offers the most stunning views of the lake and the majestic mountains in the distance.

Poprad

Poprad, which is conveniently situated in the Basin under the Tatras and on the primary railway line in Slovakia linking Kosice with Bratislava through Zilina and Trnava, is frequently thought of as a retreat to the Tatra mountains (with frequent train connections to the popular mountain resorts there). Yet the city itself is worth a visit as well, with a past dating back to the 13th century. The main plaza (St. Egidius square), which is bordered by Baroque and Classicist townhouses and has the 13th-century Church of Saint. Egidius, is magnificently preserved.

The district of Spiská Sobota, which was formerly a distinct city, is the most fascinating area of Poprad. Most of Poprad's historical landmarks, including a well-preserved center, can be found there. Poprad is also known for its aquapark – Aqua City Poprad – where you can enjoy numerous indoor and outdoor pools, also in the wintertime. You can stay there at the highly-rated Aqua City Hotel with views over the Tatra Mountains.

Spišské Podhradie

The two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spiské Podhradie are among the many attractions in this little town that you shouldn't miss. The Spi Castle, which dominates the region, is the largest and most spectacular one. Although though it is largely in ruins now and one of the biggest castle complexes in all of Europe, it nevertheless astounds visitors with its size. It dates back to the 12th century. The grandness of the location truly takes your breath away, making it one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in Slovakia. Spiská Kapitula, which has a former monastery and St. Martin's Church dated 1245, is on the other side of the city. Spiské Podhradie is a quiet town by itself.

Levoča

There are a lot of monuments and attractions in the peaceful town of Levoa, most of them are concentrated in the walled medieval center. Time seems to have paused inside the walls. The majority of Levoa's attractions are located on the main square, Namestie Majstra Pavla, which is reached by winding through narrow alleyways lined with modest, colorful homes. The primary one is St. James Church, which dominates the area. The amazing altar carved by Master Pavol of Levoa, the tallest wooden altar in the world and the reason the town was given the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 2009, may not appear exceptional from the outside, but it is a true jewel within.

The mid-17th-century Renaissance Town Hall with its connected tower is another stunning structure that you won't want to miss. The Main Plaza is a wonderfully delightful area with some of the most exquisite homes in Levoa as well as a few cafés and restaurants where you can relax and take in the scene. You may visit the Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is located on a hill above the town and offers breathtaking views of Levoa and beyond.

Spišská Nová Ves

Although Spiská Nová Ves is home to Slovakia's tallest church tower (86,6 meters), the town is also home to a number of other attractions. The majority of the city's attractions, including the previously mentioned church, the Reduta Theatre from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, the Spi Museum, and the town hall, are concentrated around Letna and Zimna streets in the center, which is very attractive.

Kežmarok

Kemarok, a little hamlet close to the Tatra Mountains, is frequently disregarded despite being such an intriguing location. The town was established in the thirteenth century, and now it is home to a large number of historical sites. The UNESCO-listed wooden articular church that was constructed by the local Lutherans in 1717 is perhaps Kemarok's main draw. The town's 15th-century fortress (which was later restored many times), the 13th-century Cathedral of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, and the remains of the medieval city walls are other attractions worth seeing. Kemarok is a quaint village with a lovely central area and lovely views of the adjacent Tatra Mountains.

Stará Ľubovňa

A little town that shares a border with Poland and is well-known for its spectacular castle remains from the fourteenth century. The nearby open-air folk museum features wooden structures from the area, most of which are from the late 19th or early 20th century, including homes, a church, a mill, and more. The Gothic 13th-century church and the medieval main plaza with Renaissance townhouses are two other fascinating sites in Stará ubova.

Trencin

At one and a half hours into your train ride from Bratislava to northern Slovakia, you will see a majestic castle dominating the landscape. There is Trencin Castle, one of Slovakia's most stunning tourist attractions. One of Slovakia's largest medieval castles, it functioned as the royal residence as early as the 11th century (and later was used by noble families). Although getting to the castle requires a little climbing, the effort is unquestionably worthwhile.

But, Trencin is worth a visit for more than just the castle. A Roman inscription from the year 179 serves as a reminder of the city's lengthy history, with the first settlements here reaching back to the 4th century BC. The Holy Trinity Plague Column from 1712 stands in the center of Trencin's main plaza, Mierové námestie, which is a picturesque area bordered by vibrant townhouses. Go to the City Tower on the edge of the Main Plaza for a fantastic view over the city and the castle.

Bojnice Castle

Another popular tourist destination in Slovakia is Bojnice Castle, which is also one of the nation's oldest structures. The 12th-century timber fort that is now known as the Romanesque castle initially had Gothic and Renaissance components. Its appearance has altered with time, and by the end of the 19th century, it became a breathtaking romantic setting. It is best to visit the castle during the week rather than on the weekends because it is one of Slovakia's most visited locations. In addition to the castle, there is also a small zoo nearby that is the oldest in Slovakia, as well as a park featuring one of the oldest trees in the nation (some 700 years old King Matthias Linden Tree).

Piestany

One of Slovakia's most well-known spa towns, Piestany, commonly referred to as the "Queen of the Spa Towns," is situated about 80 kilometers north of Bratislava. Spa Island, where there are various healing homes, swimming pools, natural springs, and fountains, serves as the town's focal point. It's the ideal location to go if you want to unwind a little and take in the laid-back environment that is unique to spa towns.

Zilina

Zilina, the fourth-largest city in Slovakia and a key transportation hub, lies close to the Czech and Polish borders and is another Slovak city with a lengthy and fascinating history that dates back to the early 13th century. Despite its diminutive size, the historic center is very attractive. Mariánske námestie, a historic marketplace now encircled by Renaissance and Baroque townhouses with arcade-covered tunnels that conceal a few eateries and cafes, is the center of the neighborhood. The Holy Trinity Cathedral, which dates back to the fifteenth century, is the most recognizable structure in Zilina. The 13th-century Budatn Castle is located nearby and is only a short stroll from the city.

Čičmany

One of the most distinctive Slovakia attractions is the little town of imany, which is about 170 kilometers north of Bratislava and one of the few preserved folk villages in Central Europe. The historic log homes with the customary white decorations are what give it its unique character. The exquisite décor that you see now was added after the 1921 fire, however the artwork was originally created in the 19th century. They were incorporated into the structures not just for aesthetic purposes but primarily to shield the logs from the sun's beams. The outcome is that the village is such a stunning jewel! In many, all 136 old homes are now designated monuments. The Radenov dom and the nearby Gregorov dom are the most priceless of all.

Banska Stiavnica

Banska Stiavnica, which was recognized by UNESCO in 1993 and included to the World Heritage List, is arguably the most beautiful and endearing village you can visit in Slovakia. Banska Stiavnica, which dates to the Middle Ages, is one of Europe's oldest and most significant medieval mining towns. The town has a picture-perfect setting, buried in a valley and surrounded by gently undulating hills, making it appear as though it were plucked out of a fairy tale. This tiny village has a surprising number of attractions. There are a lot of archeological sites there that are related to the old mining practices, as well as a lovely center with two castles, a few churches, and the town's focal point, Holy Trinity Square. Around narrow cobblestone streets.

Kremnica

Kremnica is another another attractive town with a long mining history reaching back to the 10th century, nestled amid green hills in Central Slovakia. The region is well-known for its gold mining and for having the world's oldest mint that is still in use. The old town has been well-preserved and is rich with ancient historical structures dating back to the middle ages. The castle at Kremnica, which dates back to the 13th century and has two defensive walls, is the main draw. It is a rare example of a fortification system in Central Europe. The central square, which has a stunning 1765 Baroque plague column, is where the city's action takes place. The neighborhood is dominated by the nearby Gothic Church of St. Catherine, which is also where you can go to the well-known European Organ Festival.

Banska Bystrica

The sixth-largest city in Slovakia, Banska Bystrica, is situated in the nation's geographic middle and is encircled by mountains (including a few national parks). Although the first signs of this location date back to the Stone Age, a Slavic village was founded there in the 12th century. Another lovely Slovak city, this one with a gorgeous Main Square ringed by a number of historical landmarks, such as the Town Hall, castle ruins, Central Slovakia Museum, or the Marian's Pillar from the early 18th century. The Slovak National Uprising Monument is housed in the most striking brutalist edifice in Slovakia, a concrete bowl-shaped building from 1969, which is also located in Banska Bystrica. The city is lively until late at night during the summer, and it is a pure pleasure to be here and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Špania Dolina

In the old mining village of Paania Dolina, only a few kilometers outside of Banska Bystrica, it appears as though time has stood still. Being tucked away in a valley surrounded by the Low Tatras mountains' undulating slopes, it is also one of Slovakia's most scenic tourist destinations. The area has a long history of mining; copper and silver ores were mined here for many years, up until 1888. Nowadays, Pania Dolina is a tranquil village with a small number of homes, many of which date from the 19th century, and the church of the Conversion of the Lord, which is visible in most photos. Also, it serves as a fantastic starting point for several walks that will lead you through magnificent mountains where you can also find mining remnants from the old times.

Low Tatras Mountains

The Little Tatras range, which has the highest peak at umbier, is a wonderful substitute for the High Tatras (2042 meters above sea level). The Low Tatras National Park is Slovakia's biggest national park and a favorite among hikers. There are more than a thousand kilometers of hiking paths in this area, with Demänovská dolina being the location of the busiest ones. Together with trekking, this area has some spectacular caverns, including the Vaeck Cave, Demänovská Cave of Liberty, and Demänovská Ice Cave.

Vlkolinec

Another historic folk village that has survived to the present day is Vlkolinec, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (granted this title for the traditional features of a Central European village). It was originally documented in 1376, and it gradually expanded throughout the ages until Nazis burned destroyed a portion of the hamlet during World War 2. What was left is the epitome of a remote alpine village in Slovakia. The folk village now consists of 43 houses, two of which may be seen inside, as well as a church and a school; the majority of the structures are from the 19th century. Just south of Ruomberok lies a settlement called Vlkolnec. You may drive there or use one of the hiking routes to get there.