Slovakia

Slovakia: general info for travelers

Slovakia is a small, landlocked country in Central Europe, bordered by Poland to the north, Ukraine to the east, Hungary to the south, Austria to the southwest, and the Czech Republic to the northwest. The country has a population of over 5.4 million people, with its capital and largest city being Bratislava. Slovakia has a rich history and culture, with many castles, historic towns, and traditional folk customs. Its natural landscapes are also stunning, with the Tatra Mountains in the north, numerous national parks, and many thermal spas. The official language is Slovak, and the currency is the Euro.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Slovakia, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Slovakia: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the most popular places to visit in Slovakia: 1. Bratislava: The capital city of Slovakia, located in the southwest of the country, is known for its charming old town, stunning castle, and beautiful Danube riverfront. It's also a great place to try traditional Slovak cuisine and immerse yourself in the local culture.
2. High Tatras: The High Tatras is one of the most stunning natural sites in Slovakia, featuring stunning mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and numerous hiking trails. It's a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those looking for a break from the city.
3. Bojnice Castle: One of the most famous castles in Slovakia, Bojnice Castle is a fairy-tale-like structure that has been beautifully preserved over the centuries. It features a moat, drawbridge, and beautiful gardens making it an excellent place for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
4. Spiš Castle: This 12th-century castle is one of the largest in Europe, located in the eastern part of Slovakia, and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a great place to get a glimpse into the medieval history of the country.
5. Orava Castle: Located in the northwest of Slovakia, Orava Castle is another stunning medieval fortress set amid an awe-inspiring landscape. It features a museum showcasing the history of the castle and the region around it.
6. Slovak Paradise National Park: Located in the east of Slovakia, Slovak Paradise National Park features stunning landscapes of waterfalls, gorges, and canyons that make it a perfect place for hiking and outdoor activities.
These are just some of the top places to visit in Slovakia, but the country is full of other hidden gems that are worth exploring.
There is more to see and do in Slovakia: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Slovakia: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Slovakia, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Slovakia has a temperate continental climate, which means its weather can vary depending on the season. In the spring (March to May), the temperature is mild and often rainy. The countryside is green with blooming flowers and it's a good time to visit if you enjoy nature walks and hiking.
In the summer (June to August), Slovakia is warm and pleasant. Temperatures usually range between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius, and it's an excellent time to explore the country's outdoor attractions, including its numerous hiking trails and national parks.
Autumn (September to November) is a beautiful time to visit Slovakia, with the leaves changing to shades of gold, red, and orange, although it can also be quite chilly and rainy. Winter (December to February) in Slovakia is cold, snowy, and perfect for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice-skating. Generally, the peak tourist season in Slovakia is from June to August, particularly in the cities such as Bratislava. However, the best months to visit for outdoor activities would be from May to October, and for winter sports lovers it would be from December to March.

Slovakia: activities and what to do

Slovakia is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities and sports to enjoy during a holiday, including: 1. Hiking and Trekking: Slovakia has a diverse range of hiking trails through its beautiful lakes, impressive mountains, and national parks.
2. Skiing and Snowboarding: Ski resorts in Slovakia offer amazing opportunities for skiing and snowboarding as it has some of the best ski slopes in Europe.
3. Cycling: Slovakia has several cycling routes through its forests, hills, and valleys, which makes it a perfect place for cycling enthusiasts.
4. Rafting and Kayaking: Rafting and kayaking are popular sports in Slovakia; the Váh River and River Dunajec offer some of the best white-water rapids.
5. Climbing and Via Ferrata: Slovakia has a rich mountaineering culture with several challenging peaks for climbing and via ferrata routes.
6. Paragliding: Slovakia has some of the best locations for paragliding and hang gliding.
7. Cave Exploration: Slovakia is home to several caves, including the Demänová Cave system, which is one of the most significant cave complexes in Europe.
8. Horse Riding: Horse riding is available throughout the country, and there are many equestrian centers and ranches to choose from.
These are just some of the many activities and sports that you can enjoy in Slovakia.

Slovakia: few words on history and culture

Slovakia has a rich and diverse history and culture. The earliest known inhabitants of the region were the Celts. Later, during the Roman Empire era, the area was inhabited by various Germanic tribes. In the 9th century, the territory of modern-day Slovakia became part of the Great Moravian Empire, which was one of the most powerful states in Europe at the time.
In the Middle Ages, Slovakia was ruled by various kingdoms and empires, including the Kingdoms of Hungary and Bohemia, and the Habsburg Empire. This era saw the development of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and important cultural and intellectual figures, such as the iluminator Martinus Kosice, were active.
In the 20th century, Slovakia was part of Czechoslovakia, until its peaceful separation in 1993. Today, Slovakia is a modern and dynamic country with a thriving arts and culture scene, including film, music, theater, and literature. The country is known for its stunning natural landscapes and unique folk culture, which is celebrated with traditional festivals, music, dance, and cuisine.

Slovakia: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transport to reach Slovakia, depending on your starting point and preference. If you are travelling from a nearby country, the most convenient and cost-effective way would be by bus. There are several bus companies that operate between Slovakia and neighboring countries such as Austria, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Hungary. If you are coming from a distant location, you may want to consider flying into the capital city of Bratislava or the second-largest city of Košice. These airports serve several airlines, including budget carriers such as Ryanair and Wizz Air. Alternatively, you could also arrive by train, particularly if you are coming from one of the neighboring countries. The railway network in Slovakia is well-connected to neighboring countries and provides a comfortable and scenic journey. Once you have arrived in Slovakia, you can use a combination of public transport such as buses, trams, and metro in the larger cities, and trains to travel to other parts of the country. Car rental is also a popular option for those who prefer more flexibility and independence. To hire a car to visit Slovakia, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Slovakia: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Slovakia with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the typical foods of Slovakia: 1. Bryndzové Halušky - This is a national dish of Slovakia and is made up of boiled potato dumplings mixed with a soft sheep cheese called Bryndza, and is topped with fried bacon. It has a strong, tangy flavor and is a popular comfort food.
2. Kapustnica - It is a traditional soup made with sauerkraut, dried mushrooms and smoked meat. It is usually eaten during Christmas and New Year's Eve.
3. Široký Rezeň - This is a breaded and fried pork schnitzel, served with a side of potatoes or fries. It is a classic, hearty meal and is often found in many restaurants throughout the country.
4. Zemiakové Placky - These are potato pancakes made with grated potatoes, flour, and eggs. They are fried until crispy and often served as a side dish or as a snack with sour cream or Bryndza cheese.
5. Trdelník - This is a traditional Slovak pastry made from rolled dough that is wrapped around a wooden stake, grilled, and then coated with sugar and walnuts. It has a sweet, caramelized flavor and is a popular dessert or snack.
There are many other delicious Slovakian foods, but these are some of the most popular ones.

Slovakia: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Slovakia is generally an affordable country for tourists. Prices for accommodation, food, and attractions are lower in Slovakia compared to other European countries. However, the cost of your trip may depend on your travel style, budget, and the season you visit. In general, traveling outside the peak tourist seasons of summer and Christmas can also save you money.

Slovakia: where to find accodation

There are several websites that you can use to look for accommodations in Slovakia. Some popular choices include: 1. Booking.com 2. Airbnb 3. Expedia 4. Hotels.com 5. Agoda 6. Hostelworld These websites offer a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. You can filter the results by price, location, and amenities to find the perfect accommodation for your needs. It's also a good idea to read reviews from previous guests to get an idea of what to expect from the accommodation.
You can check hotel prices in Slovakia here:
Booking.com

Slovakia: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Slovakia receives around 5 million tourists annually. The peak tourist season in Slovakia is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is warmer and many popular destinations, such as the High Tatras Mountains, are easily accessible. However, the country doesn't usually experience heavy crowds like some of the more popular destinations in Europe. The winter months, particularly the Christmas period, also see an increase in tourism, especially for winter sports enthusiasts.
Slovakia is generally a safe country for tourists. The crime rate is low compared to other European countries. However, like any other country, there are certain areas that should be avoided, especially at night, such as some parts of Bratislava's Old Town. It's always recommended to use common sense and be cautious when walking alone at night. Overall, Slovakia is a very welcoming and safe country for tourists.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Slovakia on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Slovakia: events for tourists

There are many interesting events in Slovakia that may appeal to tourists. Here are a few of the most notable events: 1. The Slovak Wine Festival in Bratislava - This annual festival celebrates the country's rich wine-making tradition. Attendees can sample a wide variety of wines from different regions and enjoy food, music, and cultural events.
2. The Slovak Folk Festival in Vychodna - This festival showcases traditional Slovakian dance, music, crafts, and costumes. It's a great way to experience the country's unique culture and heritage.
3. The Bratislava Music Festival - This is one of the most important cultural events in Slovakia, featuring international classical music performers and orchestras.
4. The Christmas Market in Bratislava - This market is one of the most popular events during the winter season. It features traditional Slovakian crafts, food, and gifts, and is a great way to experience the holiday spirit in Slovakia.
5. The Tatry Ice Master in Hrebienok - This event is a giant ice sculpture exhibition held in Hrebienok, in the Tatra mountains. It's a unique and extraordinary display of artistry and skill for the entire family. These are just a few of the many events that take place across Slovakia throughout the year.

Slovakia: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Slovakia, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a recommended travel itinerary for a two week trip to Slovakia: Day 1-2: Bratislava - Explore Slovakia's capital city, visit its historic Old Town, St. Martin's Cathedral, and the Bratislava Castle.
Day 3-4: Banska Stiavnica - Visit the historic town of Banska Stiavnica, known for its mining heritage and stunning architecture.
Day 5-6: High Tatras National Park - Head north to the High Tatras National Park for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing in the winter.
Day 7-8: Spis Castle - Explore one of the largest castle complexes in Europe, which dates back to the 12th century.
Day 9-10: Slovensky Raj National Park - Enjoy hiking and exploring the stunning natural beauty of Slovensky Raj National Park.
Day 11-12: Bratislava Region Vineyards - Visit the vineyards located just outside Bratislava for wine tasting and stunning views.
Day 13-14: Levoca - Explore the historic town of Levoca, which features the largest wooden altar in the world at St James Church, and the ruins of the Levoca Castle.
This itinerary includes a mix of historic, cultural, and natural attractions and allows tourists to experience the diversity of Slovakia. Don't forget to try traditional Slovakian food, such as Bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese) and sip Slovakian wine and beer. Enjoy your trip to Slovakia!

Slovakia: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Slovakia described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Banská Bystrica is a historical city located in central Slovakia, with a population of approximately 80,000 people. It is the sixth largest city in Slovakia and serves as the administrative, cultural,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Banská Bystrica
- Bardejov is a historic town located in the northeastern part of Slovakia, near the border with Poland. It is situated in the hilly landscape of the Carpathian Mountains and has a population of around ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bardejov
- Bojnice is a small town located in western Slovakia known for its beautiful Bojnice Castle, which was built in the 12th century. The town has a population of about 5,000 people and is situated in a pi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bojnice
- Bratislava is the capital of Slovakia located in the southwestern corner of the country along the Danube River. It is the country's largest city and has a population of around 430,000 people. The city... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bratislava
- Brezno is a town located in central Slovakia, near the Low Tatras mountains. It has a population of approximately 21,000 people and covers an area of 43.95 square kilometers. Brezno is known for its b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Brezno
- Bánovce nad Bebravou is a town located in the Trenčín Region of Slovakia. It is situated along the Bebrava River and has a population of approximately 19,000 people. The town is well known for its his... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bánovce nad Bebravou
- Detva is a town located in central Slovakia, specifically in the region of Banska Bystrica. It has a population of around 8,000 inhabitants and it is known for its folklore traditions and cultural her... CONTINUE here for a trip to Detva
- Dubnica nad Váhom is a town located in the western part of Slovakia, in the Trenčín Region. It has a population of around 25,000 people and it is known as an important industrial and economic hub, wit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dubnica nad Váhom
- Hlohovec is a town in western Slovakia, located in the Trenčín Region. It is situated on the northern bank of the Váh River and is surrounded by the hills of the Považský Inovec mountain range. Hlohov... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hlohovec
- Humenné is a town located in the eastern part of Slovakia, near the border with Ukraine. It is the second largest town in the district of Humenné and has a population of around 34,000 people. The town... CONTINUE here for a trip to Humenné
- Kežmarok is a town in the Spiš region of Slovakia, situated on the river Poprad. It has a population of around 16,000 people and is known for its historic architecture, including a castle and several ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kežmarok
- Komárno is a town in southern Slovakia, located on the left bank of the Danube River. It has a population of approximately 34,000 people, and it is the seat of the Komárno District. The town is known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Komárno
- Košice is the second-largest city in Slovakia, located in the eastern region of the country, near the border with Hungary. It has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its beautiful historic city ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Košice
- Levice is a town in western Slovakia with a population of around 18,000 people. The town is located in the Nitra Region, and it is situated on the banks of the river Hron. Levice has a rich history an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Levice
- Liptovský Mikuláš is a town located in northern Slovakia, at the foothills of the Tatra Mountains. It is one of the most important tourist centers in Slovakia, known for its natural beauty, historical... CONTINUE here for a trip to Liptovský Mikuláš
- Martin is a town located in the Žilina Region of Slovakia. It is situated in the western part of central Slovakia, at the foothills of the Mala Fatra and Veľká Fatra mountain ranges. With a population... CONTINUE here for a trip to Martin
- Michalovce is a town located in eastern Slovakia, near the border with Ukraine. It is the largest town in the district of Michalovce and has a population of approximately 40,000 people. The town is si... CONTINUE here for a trip to Michalovce
- Nitra is a city located in western Slovakia, situated on the banks of the Nitra River. It is the fifth largest city in Slovakia and has a population of approximately 77,000 people. Nitra is known for ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nitra
- Nové Zámky is a town in southwestern Slovakia, located in the region of Nitra. It has a population of approximately 40,000 people. The town is known for its beautiful historical buildings, including a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nové Zámky
- Partizánske is a town in western Slovakia, located in the region of Trenčín. It has a population of approximately 23,000 people. The town was founded in 1938 as a result of an ambitious plan to build ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Partizánske
- Pezinok is a town located in southwestern Slovakia, about 20 km from the capital city Bratislava. It has a population of around 22,000 people and is known primarily for its wine production. The town h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pezinok
- Pieštany is a spa town located in western Slovakia, known for its thermal springs and healing mud. It is situated in the heart of the Slovak Danube region, about 80 kilometers from the capital city, B... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pieštany
- Poprad is a city located in northern Slovakia, in the Prešov Region, at the foot of the High Tatras Mountains. It has a population of approximately 55,000 people and is an important economic and cultu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Poprad
- Poprad-Tatry is a city in northern Slovakia, located at the foot of the High Tatras mountain range. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and skiers due to its location near the Tatras a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Poprad-Tatry
- Považská Bystrica is a small town located in the northwestern part of Slovakia, situated in the beautiful region of the White Carpathians. It has a population of around 20,000 people and it's best kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Považská Bystrica
- Prešov is a city located in the eastern part of Slovakia, near the border with Poland. It is the third-largest city in Slovakia and is an important center of culture, education, and commerce in the re... CONTINUE here for a trip to Prešov
- Prievidza is a town located in western Slovakia, in the Zilina region. It has a population of approximately 50,000 people and it is known for its rich history, numerous cultural events, natural beauty... CONTINUE here for a trip to Prievidza
- Ružomberok is a charming town located in northern Slovakia, surrounded by picturesque mountains and lush forests. The town is famous for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. Ružomberok has ma... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ružomberok
- Senec is a town located in western Slovakia, in the Bratislava Region. It is situated on the shores of Lake Slnečné jazerá (Sunny Lakes), which is a popular recreational area for locals and tourists a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Senec
- Spišská Nová Ves is a town located in eastern Slovakia, near the border with Poland. It is situated in the historical region of Spiš and is considered one of the most attractive tourist destinations i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Spišská Nová Ves
- Stará Ľubovňa is a small town located in the eastern part of Slovakia. It is renowned for its UNESCO-protected wooden church and the Stará Ľubovňa Castle, which was built in the 14th century. The cast... CONTINUE here for a trip to Stará Lubovna
- Svidník is a town located in the northeastern part of Slovakia, near the borders with Poland and Ukraine. It is the administrative center of the Svidník District and has a population of approximately ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Svidník
- Topolcany is a town located in western Slovakia, situated in the Nitra Region. It has a population of approximately 28,000 people and covers an area of 53.58 square kilometres. The town has a rich his... CONTINUE here for a trip to Topolcany
- Trenčín is a city located in western Slovakia, with a population of approximately 55,000 inhabitants. It is situated on the banks of the Váh river and surrounded by the Strážov Mountains. The city is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trencín
- Sure, Trnava is a city in western Slovakia, located approximately 45 kilometers east of Bratislava, the capital city. It has a rich history, dating back to Roman times, and it's often referred to as "... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trnava
- Zlaté Moravce is a town located in western Slovakia, in the Nitra region. It has a population of approximately 21,000 inhabitants and is known for its historical landmarks, beautiful nature, and vibra... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zlaté Moravce
- Zvolen is a city located in central Slovakia, in the region of Banská Bystrica. It has a population of approximately 43,000 people and is known for its historical and cultural significance. The city b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zvolen
- Šala is a town located in western Slovakia, in the Trnava Region. It has a population of around 22,000 people and is situated in a flat plain area. The town has a long history, with evidence of settle... CONTINUE here for a trip to Šala
- Žarnovica is a small town located in central Slovakia, in the region of Banská Bystrica. The town has a population of around 6,500 inhabitants and is known for its thermal spa, which is a popular tour... CONTINUE here for a trip to Žarnovica
- Žilina is a city located in northwestern Slovakia, near the border with the Czech Republic and Poland. It is the fourth-largest city in Slovakia and is considered to be one of the country's cultural a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Žilina


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