Top 13 Attractions and Activities in Slovakia

In case you haven’t visited Slovakia yet, add it to your bucket list immediately. Slovakia is becoming a popular tourist destination, and the reason is simple: There are so many things to do in Slovakia.

What to Do in Slovakia

Slovakia is a growing country full of breathtaking places and incredible activities. Whether you’re a young solo traveler, a group of friends, or a family with kids, everyone will find something that suits them best!

We have prepared a list of the top 13 things to do in Slovakia, and we are sure that you will love them all.

1. Go Hiking

We wanted to start with our favorite activity: hiking. Slovakia offers numerous hiking and climbing opportunities, particularly in the northern region. You will definitely appreciate the stunning beauty of the Slovak mountains.

With hundreds of hiking routes available, the most picturesque ones are found in the High Tatras. Fortunately, you don’t need specialized hiking gear as the trails are classified according to difficulty levels, making it accessible for everyone.

2. Go Skiing

If you’re visiting Slovakia during winter, ensure you experience the many ski slopes. There’s no need to worry if you don’t have skiing equipment; almost every ski resort offers rentals. Furthermore, if you still haven’t had enough, you can ski at night!

Family-friendly ski schools and kindergartens make it easy for parents to enjoy the slopes while the kids are cared for. Notable ski resorts include Jasná, Chopok, Donovaly, and Veľká Raka.

3. Party Hard in Bratislava

Bratislava may be small compared to other capitals, but its nightlife is anything but dull. With a plethora of clubs and pubs, you can either dance the night away at a disco or enjoy a rock concert. Prices are relatively affordable, making it an ideal place for stag and hen parties. We highly recommend visiting Subclub, an alternative club located right beneath the castle.

4. Do Some Climbing

Are you an adventure park enthusiast eager to test your climbing skills? Slovakia boasts many free climbing opportunities. The mountains around Terchová and Slovenský Raj are filled with gorges that are equipped with ropes, ladders, and bridges. Some of these installations present challenges, but they guarantee plenty of fun!

5. Visit a Mining Town

Central Slovakia is renowned for its mining history, with towns that prospered from extracting non-renewable resources. These towns are truly captivating, and visiting Kremnica or Banská Štiavnica is among the top things to do in Slovakia.

6. Fall in Love with the Folk Architecture

UNESCO recognizes several places in Slovakia that are inscribed on the World Heritage List. One such place is Vlkolínec, a charming village nestled in a valley, surrounded by lush green hills—a true gem on the Slovak map. The traditional log houses serve as an example of typical mountainous villages in Central Europe. If you wish to see more, consider visiting Vychylovka or Čičmany.

7. Let the Monsters and Ghosts Scare You

One of the most entertaining attractions in Slovakia is the International Festival of Ghosts and Monsters in Bojnice, which occurs annually in April or May. Each year features a different theme, and the organizers strive to create excitement for both children and adults alike. Moreover, the festival setting in the castle resembles something out of a Disney fairy tale.

8. Try a Traditional Slovak Dish

Slovak cuisine may not be considered light, but it is undeniably delicious. Common ingredients in local dishes include potatoes, cabbage, flour, pork, and dairy products. Be sure to try “bryndzové halušky,” a dish consisting of tiny potato dumplings served with strong flavored sheep cheese and bacon. If you are a vegetarian, opt for “zemiakové placky” (potato pancakes) or “bryndzové pirohy” (ravioli filled with sheep cheese).

9. Discover the Indiana Jones in You

Need more adventure? Embark on a kayaking journey that would make Indiana Jones proud! For a more relaxed experience, explore the marshes of the Danube, which often exude a prehistoric ambiance. For adrenaline seekers, rafting opportunities abound, offering exhilarating experiences on the wild rivers of Slovakia, such as Váh or Dunajec.

10. Visit One of the Castles

Slovakia is also famous for its numerous castles, many of which feature unique architecture and captivating histories. Most are open to the public and offer tours in multiple languages. Notable castles to visit include Bojnice, Orava, Trenčín, and Spiš, with Spiš being one of the largest in Slovakia.

11. Enjoy the Atmosphere of the Christmas Markets

Slovakia embraces Christmas fervently, with almost every town and village hosting its own Christmas markets. The largest markets can be found in the capital, where you can savor traditional Christmas food and purchase festive decorations, gifts, and toys. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a warm cup of mulled wine or honey liquor!

12. Watch an Ice Hockey Match

Ice hockey can be considered a national sport in Slovakia, fostering passionate fans who frequent matches. Whether in winter or summer, numerous clubs host games throughout the year. Why not witness the enthusiasm of Slovaks supporting their favorite teams?

13. Explore the Old Town of Bratislava

Last but not least, be sure to explore the Old Town of Bratislava. Although it isn’t vast, you can easily see all the significant sights in one day. Don’t miss landmarks such as Bratislava Castle, St. Michael’s Tower, and the Blue Church. If you need a break from sightseeing, relax with a coffee or drink in one of the many bars in the city center.

Photo Credit: “Bryndzové Halušky” By Gregory finster – Originally uploaded on en.wikipedia (Transferred by Gyrobo), CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=16393614