Slovakia

West

Explore the Historic Charm of Bratislava

  • Wander through the pedestrianized Old Town with its colorful buildings and lively squares.
  • Ascend to Bratislava Castle for panoramic city views and historical insights into the city's past as a key Danubian port.
  • Visit St. Martin's Cathedral, the coronation church of Hungarian kings, boasting impressive Gothic architecture.
  • Stroll along the Danube River promenade and enjoy the atmosphere, perhaps trying a local *Kofola* (local soft drink).
  • Discover quirky statues (like Čumil) and modern art installations throughout the city, offering unique photo opportunities.
  • Explore the unique architecture, from Gothic to Art Nouveau, reflecting different periods of its rich history. Consider visiting during the Christmas markets for a festive atmosphere.

Discover the Ancient Roots of Nitra

  • Explore the impressive Nitra Castle complex, a symbol of Slovak history and one of the oldest power centers dating back to the Great Moravian Empire.
  • Visit the Nitra Cathedral, a significant religious and architectural landmark within the castle grounds, with stunning views.
  • Wander through the Upper Town with its historical churches and palaces, offering glimpses into its past as a major religious center.
  • Learn about Nitra's role as one of the oldest cities in Slovakia, with archaeological evidence of early Slavic settlements.
  • Enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside from the castle hill, especially picturesque at sunset. Try the local *Nitrianske pivo* (beer).

Experience the Medieval Atmosphere of Trnava

  • Walk along the well-preserved medieval city walls, offering a unique perspective of the town.
  • Visit St. John the Baptist Cathedral, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture and a key landmark.
  • Explore the numerous churches that give Trnava its nickname "Little Rome," reflecting its historical religious significance.
  • Discover the charming squares and historical buildings of the city center, often hosting local markets.
  • Look for the town tower for great views.

Explore the Vineyards and Castles of the Little Carpathians

  • Hike through the scenic trails of the Little Carpathians mountain range (ranging from easy to moderate difficulty).
  • Visit Červený Kameň Castle with its historical collections and impressive falconry displays (check show times).
  • Explore the charming wine towns of Modra and Pezinok, known for their traditional cellars and Majolica pottery.
  • Discover local crafts and pottery in the picturesque villages along the wine route.
  • Enjoy wine tasting sessions at local vineyards, sampling regional varieties like Frankovka modrá.

Discover the Fairytale Beauty of Bojnice Castle

  • Visit this romantic castle with its distinctive architecture and towers, inspired by French Loire Valley castles.
  • Wander through the surrounding park and visit the nearby Bojnice Zoo.

Explore the Mighty Trenčín Castle

  • Ascend to the impressive Trenčín Castle perched high on a rock, a symbol of the city.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape from the castle terraces.
  • Wander through the historic city center below the castle and perhaps relax in the thermal spa nearby.

Discover the Caves of the Western Slovak Karst (UNESCO)

  • Explore the fascinating Domica Cave with its unique formations and underground boat ride along the Styx River.
  • Visit the Gombasek Cave, known for its slender stalactites and its use for speleotherapy.

Uncover the Legend at Čachtice Castle

  • Explore the ruins of Čachtice Castle, famously associated with the "Blood Countess" Elizabeth Báthory.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the castle hill.

Relax and Rejuvenate in Piešťany Spa Town

  • Experience the famous thermal springs and mud baths of Piešťany.
  • Stroll across the iconic Colonnade Bridge.
  • Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the spa island and its parks.

Discover the Historical Mining Town of Banská Štiavnica (UNESCO)

  • Explore this UNESCO World Heritage town with its unique historical architecture linked to its silver mining past.
  • Visit the Old Castle and the New Castle, offering insights into the town's history and mining heritage.
  • Wander around the charming town square and explore its churches and palaces.
  • Discover the network of artificial water reservoirs (tajchy) in the surrounding hills.

Explore the Historical Significance of Banská Bystrica

  • Wander through the well-preserved historical center with its squares and colorful buildings.
  • Visit the SNP Memorial, commemorating the Slovak National Uprising.
  • Explore the Banská Bystrica Castle area and its museums.
  • Enjoy the views from the Town Tower.

East

Experience the Majestic High Tatras National Park

  • Hike along well-maintained trails offering stunning mountain scenery (from easy walks around lakes to challenging multi-day treks like the Tatra Magistrala).
  • Visit the picturesque glacial lakes of Štrbské Pleso and Popradské Pleso, popular for leisurely strolls and photography with iconic mountain backdrops.
  • Take a scenic cable car ride to peaks like Lomnický štít for breathtaking views and visit the astronomical observatory.
  • Enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding in resorts like Tatranská Lomnica and Jasná, offering various slopes for all levels.

Explore the Natural Wonders of Slovak Paradise National Park

  • Hike through stunning gorges using ladders, bridges, and chains (via ferrata). Popular gorges include Suchá Belá and Jánošíkova diera.
  • Walk along rivers, through forests, and past waterfalls like the impressive Veľký vodopád (Great Waterfall).
  • Visit the impressive Dobšinská Ice Cave (UNESCO), a cool escape in summer, known for its icy formations.

Discover the Cultural Heart of Košice

  • Stroll along Hlavná ulica (Main Street) with its beautiful architecture, cafes, and the iconic Singing Fountain.
  • Visit St. Elisabeth Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic cathedral and the largest church in Slovakia.
  • See a performance at the historic State Theatre Košice, known for its beautiful Art Nouveau building.
  • Explore the various museums and art galleries in the city, such as the East Slovak Museum.
  • Experience the lively atmosphere and rich history of Slovakia's second-largest city, a former European Capital of Culture. Try a local *Košické pivo*.

Explore the Historical Charm of Prešov

  • Wander through the unique oblong Main Square with its colorful facades and the Plague Column.
  • Visit St. Nicholas Cathedral, a prominent landmark in the city center with a rich history.
  • Learn about Prešov's history, including its significant salt mining heritage and the historical saltworks.
  • Try one of the famous regional dishes like *pirohy*.

Witness the Grandeur of Spiš Castle (UNESCO)

  • Visit one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Spišské Podhradie town below.

Step Back in Time in Levoča (UNESCO)

  • Wander through the well-preserved medieval town enclosed by city walls, a testament to its historical importance.
  • Visit St. James Church, home to the world's tallest wooden altar by Master Pavol of Levoča, a masterpiece of Gothic art.
  • Explore the charming Main Square with its historical buildings like the Old Town Hall and the Thurzo House.

Discover the Spa Town Charm of Bardejov (UNESCO)

  • Explore the beautifully preserved medieval town square, one of the most picturesque in Slovakia.
  • Visit the Town Hall, a significant Gothic-Renaissance building, and the surrounding burgher houses.
  • Discover the wooden churches in the surrounding area (UNESCO), unique examples of folk architecture.
  • Learn about Bardejov's history as a spa town, attracting visitors for its mineral springs.

Explore the Caves of the Eastern Slovak Karst (UNESCO)

  • Visit the Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst Caves, a shared UNESCO site with Hungary, renowned for its extensive cave systems.
  • Explore the vast Baradla Cave (partially in Slovakia).
  • Discover other fascinating caves like the Domica Cave.

Discover the Beauty of the Wooden Churches (UNESCO)

  • Visit the unique wooden articular churches (Protestant) in towns like Kežmarok, Hronsek, and Leštiny.
  • Explore the Eastern Rite (Orthodox and Greek Catholic) wooden churches with their distinctive architecture and icons (e.g., Hervartov, Ladomirová, Ruská Bystrá).

Relax in the Spa Town of Bardejovské Kúpele

  • Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and spa facilities of Bardejovské Kúpele, near Bardejov.
  • Experience the healing mineral waters.

Explore Stará Ľubovňa Castle and its History

  • Visit the well-preserved Stará Ľubovňa Castle with its exhibits.
  • See the former storage of the Polish crown jewels.
  • Explore the adjacent open-air museum showcasing traditional folk architecture.

Discover the Stunning Scenery of the Low Tatras (Jasná)

  • Hike through the diverse landscapes of the Low Tatras National Park.
  • Visit Jasná, a major ski resort offering excellent slopes in winter and hiking trails in summer.
  • Take cable cars up to peaks like Chopok for panoramic views.

Suggested Travel Itinerary

Slovakia - 5 Weeks

Days 1-7: Bratislava and the Western Gems

  • Arrive in Bratislava. Explore the Old Town (Main Square, St. Martin's Cathedral, Michael's Gate), Bratislava Castle, and the Danube promenade.
  • Day trip to Devin Castle. Explore the ruins and enjoy the confluence of the Danube and Morava rivers.
  • Travel to Trnava and Nitra. Explore the medieval center of Trnava and the historical Nitra Castle complex.
  • Explore the Little Carpathians: Wine towns (Modra, Pezinok), Červený Kameň Castle. Enjoy wine tasting and scenic drives.
  • Day trip to Beckov and Čachtice Castles. Discover the dramatic ruins and historical legends.
  • Relax in the spa town of Piešťany. Explore the spa island and enjoy the thermal atmosphere.
  • Travel to Banská Štiavnica (UNESCO). Settle into this historical mining town.

Days 8-11: Central Slovakia's History and Nature

  • Explore Banská Štiavnica (UNESCO): Old & New Castles, town square, mining museum, and the network of tajchy (artificial lakes).
  • Day trip to Kremnica: Visit the historical mint and explore the charming town center.
  • Travel to Banská Bystrica: Explore the historical center, SNP Memorial, and the castle area.

Days 12-18: Low Tatras and Travel East

  • Explore the Demänovská Valley (Low Tatras): Visit the Cave of Liberty and the Ice Cave.
  • Hiking and cable car rides in the Low Tatras (Jasná area). Enjoy the mountain scenery and panoramic views from Chopok.
  • More hiking or exploring other parts of the Low Tatras National Park. Consider a visit to a mountain lake or a different valley.
  • Travel towards the High Tatras region, perhaps stopping in a smaller scenic town along the way.
  • Settle in near Štrbské Pleso in the High Tatras. Enjoy the initial views of the majestic peaks.
  • Explore Štrbské Pleso: Walk around the lake, easy hikes to nearby tarns (Popradské Pleso, Lake Jamské pleso).
  • Travel to Tatranská Lomnica: Take the cable car up to Skalnaté Pleso and potentially continue to Lomnický štít.

Days 19-25: High Tatras and Slovak Paradise

  • More challenging hikes in the High Tatras (optional, depending on fitness and experience). Explore different valleys and peaks.
  • Day trip to Poprad and Spišská Sobota: Explore the historical centers of these towns.
  • Explore the southern part of Slovak Paradise National Park: Hike through one of the gorges (Suchá Belá, Prielom Hornádu - depending on accessibility and preference).
  • Explore the northern part of Slovak Paradise National Park: Continue hiking through different gorges and enjoy the unique landscapes.
  • Travel to the Spiš region. Settle near Spišské Podhradie or Levoča.
  • Visit Spiš Castle (UNESCO) and the ecclesiastical town of Spišská Kapitula.
  • Explore the medieval town of Levoča (UNESCO) and its impressive St. James Church.

Days 26-35: Eastern Slovakia's Culture and Karst

  • Travel to Bardejov (UNESCO): Explore the beautifully preserved medieval square and town.
  • Relax in Bardejovské Kúpele: Enjoy the spa atmosphere and surrounding nature.
  • Explore the Wooden Churches of the Slovak Carpathians (near Bardejov or en route to Košice). Visit a few of these unique UNESCO sites.
  • Travel to Košice: Explore the cultural heart of Eastern Slovakia, including Hlavná ulica and St. Elisabeth Cathedral.
  • Day trip to Prešov: Discover its historical center and unique oblong square.
  • Explore the Eastern Slovak Karst National Park (UNESCO): Visit the Domica and Aggtelek/Baradla cave systems.
  • More exploration of the Slovak Karst region: Consider hiking trails or visiting other caves.
  • Travel to Stará Ľubovňa: Visit the castle and the open-air museum.
  • Optional day trip to Pieniny National Park: Enjoy a scenic raft trip down the Dunajec River (depending on location and interest).