Top Places to Visit in Slovakia

Most travelers get a taste of Slovakia on a city break in the capital, Bratislava, or by hiking in the famous Tatras. However, beyond its numerous castles and cobbled old towns, the Central European country offers much more. Today, many of Slovakia’s historic buildings are incubators for contemporary art and cuisine. Moreover, while the High Tatras are indeed a prime draw, Slovakia’s other national parks abound with forests, meadows, and alpine lakes, plus a diverse array of cycling and hiking trails.

Many countries boast such a range of attractions, but few present it all in such a modestly sized and easy-to-travel package. Trains connect Slovakia to capitals across Europe, bus services are abundant, and driving is straightforward. Therefore, here’s a rundown of Slovakia’s best destinations.

1. Bratislava

Best for merrymaking and monumental architecture

It’s easy to find tourists wandering through Bratislava’s cobbled streets in search of the next local beer or their next round of Slivovitz plum brandy. While the Slovak capital has a well-earned reputation as a party town, visitors also enjoy its rich cultural offerings.

Expect a showcase of architectural styles from various centuries. Michael’s Tower dates back to the Middle Ages, as does the city’s crowning castle. The art-nouveau Blue Church is a gem of early-20th-century design, while the Slovak National Gallery exhibits art in an award-winning gallery space. The stark beauty of the socialist era is still visible in oddities like the UFO (home to a unique rotating restaurant), adding to the city’s charm.

Bratislava serves as an ideal base for day trips. Within 90 minutes by road, one can explore Červený Kameň Castle, indulge in spa treatments in Piešťany, enjoy stunning views from Devínska Kobyla Observation Tower, or climb Trenčín’s clock tower for an incredible vantage point.

2. The High Tatras

Best for mountain thrills

With peaks that reach heights of up to 2,655 meters (8,710 feet), northern Slovakia’s mountains have acquired near-mythic status. These majestic peaks were shaped by glaciers during the Ice Age and are symbols of national pride. Mixed-ability groups flock to serene glacial lakes like Popradské Pleso, while more challenging day-long hikes, such as the Furkotská Valley Loop, attract seasoned adventurers. Traveling green is easy, as the Tatra Electric Railway connects visitors from Štrbské Pleso to Tatranská Lomnica, another popular mountain resort.

For ski enthusiasts, the High Tatras offer numerous opportunities, including Jasná Nízke Tatry, the largest ski area with over 46 km of trails. Visitors can also enjoy breathtaking views from Tatranská Lomnica, which boasts the highest resort in Slovakia at 2,190 meters (7,185 feet).

3. Košice

Best for modern art and medieval finery

This vibrant second city has the size and sophistication of a capital but with fewer tourists and a unique charm. The Gothic St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral anchors a plaza adorned with grand architecture and historical monuments, such as the plague column and 14th-century chapel. The artistic atmosphere flourishes along art studio- and cafe-lined Hrnčiarska Street, where local artisans showcase their crafts.

For a taste of contemporary creativity, Tabačka Kulturfabrik serves as a coworking space and performance venue that embodies Košice’s eclectic spirit. Planning a visit? There are 18 UNESCO World Heritage sights close to Košice, with enchanting locations along the Wooden Churches Trail.

4. Slovenský Raj National Park

Best for waterfalls and rivers

Of the nine national parks within Slovakia’s borders, Slovenský Raj is perhaps the most adventurous. Known as “Slovak Paradise,” it features streams that wind through forests and karst cliffs, encouraging visitors to climb ladders and navigate wooden walkways along popular trails such as the Suchá Belá Gorge and Kláštorská Gorge, home to three spectacular waterfalls.

Cycling trails abound, offering a delightful way to explore the park, with 65 km (40 miles) of trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. While winter brings quieter conditions, it’s also possible to enjoy cross-country skiing on marked trails.

5. Banská Štiavnica

Best for culture, both above and below ground

Banská Štiavnica is frequently hailed as one of the prettiest towns in Central Europe, with its Gothic and Renaissance architecture nestled within the caldera of an extinct volcano. This medieval settlement, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is celebrated not only for its beauty but also for its remarkable engineering history as Slovakia’s oldest gold- and silver-mining town.

Visitors can stroll through the village, admiring picturesque spots like Trinity Square and the historic New Castle. The Slovak Mining Museum invites guests to delve deep into the town’s mining past, while Kalvária provides a scenic hilltop vantage point showcasing the complex of Baroque churches and chapels.

6. Ždiar

Best for authentic mountain culture

Surrounded by spectacular hiking and biking trails, the village of Ždiar offers a glimpse into Goral culture, reflected in its uniquely decorated log houses. The Goral community has inhabited northern Slovakia for centuries, contributing to the region’s rich traditions.

The Ždiarsky Dom folk museum offers insights into this vibrant culture, while local cuisine showcases traditional fare featuring sheep’s cheese. A visit here lets travelers experience the distinct flavor of the mountain lifestyle.

7. Tokaj Region

Best for idyllic wine country

Despite Hungary’s acclaim for its sweet Tokaj wine, much of the wine-producing region, once fully within the Kingdom of Hungary, now lies within Slovakia’s borders. Southeast Slovakia boasts more than a dozen wineries, offering rustic settings perfect for sampling Tokaj wine paired with delectable cheeses and cured meats.

Notably, family-run wineries like Jaroslav Ostrožovič and Tokaj Macik provide a full experience for wine lovers. Planning a visit? Staying overnight in the wine villages, such as Veľká Tŕňa, promises a more enjoyable experience as many wineries offer on-site accommodations.

8. Spišské Podhradie

Best castle and hilltop views

With over 120 castles in Slovakia, choosing a favorite can be challenging. Spiš Castle, perched atop a 634-meter (2,080-foot) hill, is one of Central Europe’s most imposing fortifications. The castle’s rich history and stunning Gothic architecture provide breathtaking views reaching as far as the Tatra Mountains on clear days.

Spišské Podhradie also boasts a small selection of delightful guesthouses and restaurants, such as Spišský Salaš, which offers delightful farmhouse fare. Nearby Levoča features a quaint town hall and an array of art museums, making it an ideal addition to any itinerary.