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Bratislava Travel Guide: The Best Things to do in 48 Hours

Posted by Annick Lenoir-Peek | Updated on Sep 10, 2023 | Published on Oct 21, 2021 | Slovakia | 11

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Centrally located between the more well-known cities of Budapest and Vienna, visitors to Central Europe should not miss the often-overlooked town of Bratislava. This charming city is vibrant and full of history. And bring your camera since there are so many fabulous things to see and do! Keep reading for a complete 48 hr Bratislava travel guide!

Maintaining its small-town feeling and charm, Bratislava greets its visitors with open arms. The city is immaculate. And the residents — incredibly welcoming and willing to help visitors! Here are some of my favorite things to do in Bratislava.

Bratislava Travel Guide: the Best Things to Do and See

1. old town bratislava.

This well-preserved medieval city center is the main attraction of Bratislava. This is the starting point for many tours, as well as some of the attractions listed below. While the Communist Regime destroyed many areas of Slovakia after World War II, the center has remained relatively unscathed. 

2. Bratislava Castle

One of the most famous tourist attractions in town is Bratislava Castle. There is even a sign from the train station directing visitors in the right direction. Located on a hill with a view of the River Danube, the castle was mentioned in writings as early as 907 C.E. In 1811, a fire destroyed the castle and became a ruin. However, the building’s restoration makes it appear as it did during the reign of Maria Theresa, in the late 1700s. 

Don’t miss the magnificent views from the gardens!

3. UFO Bridge & Observation Deck

Known as the “New Bridge” or “Most SNP Bridge,” most people know what you mean when referring to the UFO Bridge. There is an observation deck and restaurant, which should be explored if you have time. You’ll have a fantastic view of three countries: Hungary, Austria, and Slovakia.

4. The Blue Church

About a 10-15 minute walk from the center of Old Town is the beautiful art nouveau Blue Church. Opening hours are limited, so check ahead of time. While it was closed when I visited, visitors could still get a view of the beautiful inside. 

5. St. Martin’s Cathedral

Consecrated in 1452, this still active Catholic Cathedral has withstood the test of time. Spend some time inside admiring the Gothic stained-glass windows and organ. The crowning of eleven Hungarian kings and eight Hungarian queens happened here. Then, follow the bronze crowns along the streets of Bratislava to do your processional walk. 

6. Michael’s Gate

The best views of Old Town can be seen from the upper terrace of this seven-story tower. Walking through the gate, look for the “Zero Kilometer” plate, which lists the distance from Bratislava to 29 world capitals. Finally, find your nation’s capital! (The museum will be closed for renovation until approximately December 2022.)

7. Man at Work

This quirky statue depicts Čumil, who no one is 100% sure what he depicts. Installed in 1997, there are a few theories of what he represents. Is he looking under the skirts of ladies passing by? Is he taking a break from cleaning the sewer? Either way, make a wish and rub his head to make it come true – though you must never tell anyone your desire. Others say that scratching his head will lead to pregnancy!

You can’t miss him since there is a sign saying “Man at Work” over him. And you’ll find the crowd at the corner of Panská and Laurinská streets. 

8. Old Market Hall

Celebrating over 100 years in business, the Old Market Hall is home to a farmer’s market every Saturday morning. Schedule a visit and enjoy breakfast. You can find some local goodies to enjoy by yourself or as something to take back with you. If you time your visit right, a monthly food truck night is a great way to see and be seen.

9. Ride a bike through three countries

Outdoor lovers should rent a bike near the UFO bridge and cycle along the Danube. You can quickly cycle into Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria, all converging near this spot.

10. Umbrella street

These popular Instagram locations are popping up all over the place, and Bratislava is no exception. You can find the umbrella street in front of the Nedbalka Gallery on Nedbalova Street. Fortunately, most people just call it Umbrella Street. Ask someone if you need help.

And two more if you have time:

11. Kamzik Television Tower

With a design reminiscent of a wine bottle, the tower pays homage to the region’s Little Carpathian Wine Area. As the city’s tallest building, the TV tower is used by radio and television and includes an observation deck and restaurant open to the public.

12. Devín Castle (Hrad Devín)

The ruins of Devin’s Castle were first mentioned in manuscripts in 863 C.E. Napoleon ordered its destruction in 1809. Nevertheless, the ruins are a popular area to visit and can be reached easily via local bus or a ferry from Bratislava. 

Bratislava Travel Guide: the Best Tours

I took two free walking tours with Discover Bratislava . I had such a great experience that I highly recommend them. 

• Free City & Castle Tour: This is a great way to introduce the city and its landmarks. Be prepared for walking on cobbled streets and climbing the stairs up to the castle!
• Spooky Legends Tour: This evening tour introduces different stories surrounding the people and locations in Old Town. You’ll see another side of Bratislava!

Don’t feel like walking? Keep in mind that vehicles are not permitted in the Old Town area, meaning that you will still end up walking the portions of Old Town on any tour. However, there are a few tours that will transport you to Bratislava Castle (so you don’t have to walk up all the steps) and even take you to further away places, such as the TV tower and 

Where to Stay in Bratislava

I recommend staying in Old Town since most attractions are easily walkable from this location.

• Central Apartmany Biela Street : This was my top choice! The building features five apartments available for rent. These are an excellent option for families or travelers who enjoy having a kitchen and washer in their unit.
• Arcadia Boutique Hotel : Prefer a few amenities? Also located in Old Town, the Arcadia Boutique Hotel is steps from many of the main sights. The 13th Century Building features lots of historical touches while maintaining an elegant atmosphere at an affordable price.
• Radisson Blu Carlton Hotel : Looking for a more familiar chain hotel? Stay at the Radisson Blu Carlton Hotel, located on the waterfront in Old Town. 

Where to Eat in Bratislava

If you’re looking for local food options, here are my top recommendations based on both input from fellow travelers and my own experiences:

• Bratislava Flagship : This restaurant is located in the original Monastery of the Merciful Brothers, on the SNP Square. Belonging to the same group that owns the Slovak Pub, you will find locally crafted beer and locally sourced food items. The prices are not touristy, and you’ll find authentic Slovak options.
• 1 Slovak Pub : Located on Obchodná, Bratislava’s shopping street, the Slovak Pub caters to tourists and locals. With special pricing for students from the nearby university, this is a fun place to hang out while enjoying a pint of their beer. 
• Meanto : Located on Biela Street, this restaurant was directly underneath my apartment. They offer a sampler plate including three typical Slovak dishes at an affordable (i.e., non-tourist) price. 
• UF O Restaurant : This one was on my list to try, but my budget did not accommodate the pricey menu. I do highly recommend visiting and grabbing a drink as a lower-budget option rather than eating here.
• Underground Tea Room : I did not try this one but the idea of having a drink in a former bomb shelter located underground sounds different.

Bratislava Travel Guide: the Best Foods and Drinks to Try

One of the best parts of traveling is trying new foods. You can learn a lot about the country’s culture through its most popular foods and drinks. Slovakia was no exception! Here are some favorite Slovak foods and beverages to try while in Bratislava:

• Bryndzové Halušky (dumplings with sheep’s cheese)
• Bryndzové Pirohy (pierogies filled with sheep’s cheese)
• Cesnaková polievka v bochníku (garlic cream soup, served in bread bowl)
• Domáca kapustnica so smotanou, údeným mäskom a klobásou (cabbage soup with sausage and pork meat)
• Burčák (fermented young Moravian wine) (only available at the beginning of the harvest season in August-October)
• Bratislavké rožky (Bratislava rolls) (small croissant looking pastries filled with poppy seed or walnuts)

Any Central Europe itinerary should include Bratislava. While day trips from Vienna and Budapest are available, this charming historic town is worth spending at least one overnight, if not more. 

Don’t forget to pick up souvenirs while you’re here!

Have you visited Bratislava? What was your favorite thing about it?

Happy travels, Annick, The Common Traveler

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11 Comments

I have to confess that I really want to travel to concerts, but for some reason, I never actually do it. I don’t know why! I have friends who go to concerts and they have an amazing time. Maybe I’ll start traveling for concerts in the near future!

You’ll bring home amazing stories if you’re open to them, but if you want to bring home amazing photographs, it takes a little more than just bringing a camera with you.

2 days in the city to get out of the tourist parts of Old Bratislava. There are so much more to see and understand about the city. For example a visit to Devin, both to see the old castle but also the river that was once part of the Iron Curtain. There are also several interesting WWII bunkers in Petrzalka 🙂

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A trip to that magical place is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. You’ll bring home amazing stories if you’re open to them, but if you want to bring home amazing photographs, it takes a little more than just bringing a camera with you.

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Thank you for your kind words!

Good old Bratislava. So many visits and still so much to explore. I would actually recommend anyone with 2 days in the city to get out of the tourist parts of Old Bratislava. There are so much more to see and understand about the city. For example a visit to Devin, both to see the old castle but also the river that was once part of the Iron Curtain. There are also several interesting WWII bunkers in Petrzalka 🙂

I’ll be sure to include them on my next visit. I loved Bratislava!

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Slovakia

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Take our Slovakia travel trips and plan your unforgettable expedition into this underrated country punctuated by mountains, castles, and historic cities.

Europe is one of the most-visited continents in the world, housing countless must-see destinations. Not into bumping shoulders with tourists every step just to get from A to B? Find far lighter crowds and standout destinations in Slovakia, an underrated gem right in the heart of Europe. This little country boasts mountainous expanses that rival any other outdoor destination and towns and cities rich with history. Rock climb, hike, sightsee, bike, ski, and swim off the beaten path while you travel Slovakia!

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Bratislava Castle The Clouds Slovakia Danube River

Slovakia is a self-assured nation born of the 1993 split of Czechoslovakia. Peacefully parting ways with the Czech Republic, each country embraced their own cultures and traditions to better define the two regions as separate entities. As a country that packs enticing topography, deep history, and distinct culture into one little package, it won’t take a long trip to get a feel for why other travellers are missing out by missing Slovakia.

Travellers to Slovakia often come to explore the splendid Old Town of Bratislava, the war-scarred fortresses, the impressive mountains, and the stately castles. For a trip that mixes outdoor adventure with cultural discovery, this is the place to be! While Bratislava will be most traveller’s jumping-off point, the far-north High Tatras mountain range cannot be left off the adventure traveller’s list. Košice provides a charming break en route to the Tokaj wine region in Slovakia’s sparsely-populated east. There’s lots to see, but this travel guide to Slovakia will show you how easy it is to see it all.

Best Places to Visit

When you step out of the plane, train, or automobile that brought you to Slovakia, odds are high that you’ll find yourself in Bratislava. This city of around 425,000 has been the capital since Slovakia became independent, and it’s a colourful blend of styles. Expect to find Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture all in one walk as you explore each castle and palace. Communist influence contrasts starkly with the ornate styles of earlier periods, with blocky apartment buildings harking back to the influence of the Communist Party of Slovakia.

While you’ll be cruising the gorgeous Old Town and perusing cafes and shops during the day, it’s impossible to ignore the raucous nightlife once the sun goes down. Bachelor parties from Vienna often target Bratislava to take advantage of the ever-flowing taps and rowdy bars. If you’re keen to be social, Bratislava will deliver.

Bratislava was also mentioned on The Broke Backpacker as one of the best places to visit when  backpacking in Eastern Europe .

High Tatras

We’ve talked about the High Tatras mountain range in detail, but you simply can’t plan an adventure travel trip to Slovakia without visiting these peaks. The High Tatras range is actually known as the smallest alpine mountain range in the world, but don’t let that deter you. The highest point of the range, Gerlachovský štít, reaches 2,655 m high. Mount Kriváň, Slovakia’s most iconic and recognizable peak, reaches 2,495 m high.

The High Tatras range is part of the larger Carpathian range that sprawls over the border between Slovakia and Poland. This region is home to ski resorts, over 600km of marked hiking trails, and cozy mountain towns to enjoy. Long-distance hikers love the 72.0 km Tatranská Magistrála trail that connects the mountains from east to west. Mountain bikers and snowshoers flock to the trails. Rock climbers can try their hands at unique routes. All that to say, this is where the action’s at if you’re looking to get outdoors!

Those visiting the High Tatras can make Štrbské Pleso, Starý Smokovec, or Tatranská Lomnica their home base.

Gerlachovsky stit hishest point in the High Tatras

Slovak Karst Caves

Get on top of the world, and then get below it! Some of Slovakia’s most incredible natural attractions are the karst caves tucked along the border with Hungary. These caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for their otherworldly scenery. Seriously, it feels like you’re in a movie down here.

There are seven components to the entire site, four of which are in Slovakia. While all of the designated cave areas are worth seeing, we definitely recommend heading down into Dominica Cave to take an underground boat ride on the River Styx. Don’t worry, you won’t be headed to Hades.

Designated as the 2013 European Capital of Culture, Košice is the second-largest city in Slovakia and the hub of the eastern side of the country. While only populated by some 240,000 people, Košice is packed with museums, galleries, exhibitions, and theatres. The architecture around the city is to die for, especially the dramatic St. Elisabeth Cathedral. Take a stroll down the pedestrian-only main street, where churches, aristocratic palaces, and modern boutiques line the sidewalk.

Košice also provides a great home base for those looking to explore the quiet eastern end of Slovakia. Most visitors to the idyllic Tokaj wine region will use this city as their gateway.

Slovakia boasts plenty to do for the adventure traveller and the casual tourist alike. To start building out an itinerary, here are some of our favourite things to do in Slovakia.

Get into those mountains! While we’ve covered the High Tatras, there are also great hiking routes in the Mala Fatra Mountains, which are conveniently just a couple of hours outside of Bratislava. While we’ve got a collection of route guides to help you find your way in Slovakia, some of our favourite hikes in the country include Mlynická Dolina to Furkotská Dolina Loop, Zelené Pleso, and Mount Rysy.

If you’re not looking to gain major elevation, a casual walk to explore the Garden of Janko Kráľ in Bratislava is lovely. Since 40% of the country is forested, you’ll find plenty of spots for a nice nature walk out in the woods without needing to scale a mountain. One of the top outdoor destinations in the country is Slovak Paradise, a national park that combines 19 different nature reserves, over 350 caves, and countless canyons and gorges to explore.

Halic Castle Galicia Lucenec Slovakia

So we’ve got mountains, we’ve got snowy winters… All we need is skis! Slovakia has a smattering of ski resorts, the most popular being Jasná Nízke Tatry–Chopok (perfect for advanced skiers and freeriders), Tatranská Lomnica (great for beginners), and Park Snow Donovaly (ideal for families with children). If you prefer cross-country to downhill, try Ski Mlynky. One of the most popular snow sports in Slovakia right now is “uphill skiing,” which is essentially the same as alpine touring. Skiers will use skins and detachable heel boots to climb up the hill, then shed their skins and lock in to descend.

Of course, snowboarders are more than welcome at the resorts of Slovakia. Most resorts open in December and remain open through the end of April.

Mountain Biking

There’s a thriving mountain biking scene in Slovakia, so those looking to explore on two wheels should feel right at home. Trails range from beginner to advanced and you’ll be able to find trailheads quite close to Bratislava. Some of the top-rated trails in the country include the Včelín Biely Kríž – Malý Slavín Bratislava Loop from Bratislava hlavná stanica (a mouthful), the Sandberg – Rozhladna Devinska kobyla Loop from Devínska Nová Ves, and the Forest Path Loop from Košice.

If you’re wanting to travel light, you can rent mountain bikes at shops throughout the country.

Cultural and Historical Exploration

Once you’ve tired yourself out on the trails, come back to the cities and towns of Slovakia to experience what makes this little country so special. Castles both pristine and in ruin are a true highlight here, and a day or two spent castle-spotting is a must. There are over 100 castles dotting the hills of Slovakia, the lovely 12th-century Bojnice Castle being one of the most visited castles in Europe. The neo-Gothic Orava Castle is one of the most beautiful in Slovakia and was used as a filming location for the 1992 silent film Nosferatu .

Once you’ve had your fill of castles (if that’s ever possible), pop into local museums to catch glimpses of Slovakia’s rich history. Our favourites are the Bratislava City Museum, the Museum of Clocks, the Slovak National Art Gallery, and the Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum in Bratislava.

Planning your perfect Slovakia trip? Booking a guided or self-guided tour can take the stress off, allowing you to soak up the scenery while your accommodations, transport, meals, and activities are looked after. We add more adventure tours all the time, so check back soon to see what incredible trips we’ve added in Slovakia!

Hiking Slovakia

Slovakia is a small, landlocked country in central Europe. It’s bordered by Poland to the north, Austria to the southwest, Ukraine to the east, and the Czech Republic to the northwest. Much of the northern reaches of the country are covered with forested mountains. The central regions see a transition from the Ore Mountains to the lowlands of the Danube. Rural countryside dominates the east, where wine regions intertwine.

Carpathian Mountains

You’ve probably got it down by now that if you’re looking for adventure in Slovakia, you’re going to head north to the mountains. Slovakia’s mountain ranges are more impressive the further north you go, and this is where you’ll find the best hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and snowshoeing in the country. The Carpathian Mountains actually reach down into central Slovakia before giving way to flatter grounds.

The popular High Tatra range, where one of Slovakia’s most popular national parks lies, is part of the Central Western Carpathians. The Ore Mountains lie farther south, an important economic feature (judging by the name, you can probably guess why).

Outside of the mountains, most of Slovakia is lowland that leads towards the Danube River along the southern border. All of Slovakia’s smaller rivers drain south towards the Danube, which is a vital connector through Central Europe (and a fun spot for a river cruise!).

Bratislava dominates the western lowlands, and the eastern, while sparsely populated, host a wine region that sprawls into Hungary.

Good news! Slovakia won’t break the bank for travellers. While other, more well-known European destinations require some serious splurging (looking at you, Scandinavia, France, and Switzerland), Slovakia retains a factor of affordability due to its underrated travel status. While it’s not on par with known budget destinations, it’s a great way to experience the charm of Europe without draining your savings. We’ll talk about costs in USD for consistency.

Accessible to those in Europe but overseas for many travellers, flights to Slovakia vary greatly in cost depending on where they’re departing from. Travellers from North America should budget anywhere from $700-$1000 for flights depending on where they’re flying out of. Travellers in Europe could enjoy flights as cheap as $100 or less!

Popradske pleso. High Tatras Slovakia

Accommodation

Where you rest your head each night can be one of your best budgeting tools. Expect to spend about $50 per night for a midrange single-occupancy hotel (more like $80 or $90 for two people) or about $40 per night for a budget hotel or hostel. High-end hotel rooms can be booked for north of $300 per night.

Daily Expenses

While the cost of your day-to-day in Slovakia can be highly variable, expect to budget anywhere between $40 and $90 per day for food, travel, and sightseeing. If you’re planning a special excursion, we recommend choosing a provider beforehand and budgeting according to their costs.

Restaurant meals start at about $10, with lunch often being cheaper. Beer is exceptionally cheap here, with pints flowing for as little as $1.50. Expect fast food meals to come in around $6 and a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant to run about $35.

Tips and Gratuities

Travellers from heavy-tipping countries, take note! Tipping in Slovakia typically happens at a much smaller percentage than you may be used to. 10 percent of the bill at a sit-down restaurant is plenty. When you pay, tell the server how much you want to pay, not how much change you want back. Take care not to say “thank you” until you’ve received your change back or the server may take it as a sign that you don’t want change.

Tipping hotel staff is not expected, but it’s nice if they went above and beyond for you. In taxis or shuttles, rounding up to the nearest euro is sufficient.

Slovakia is a considerably safe destination, with little for travellers to worry about beyond basic safety practices. You’ll likely find people to be generally courteous and polite.

There are a few local scams that specifically target tourists. First of all, although it might sound like a good time, beware of good-looking strangers inviting you to a specific bar. This is a common scam where foreigners are charged for overpriced drinks all night. While you might still enjoy your evening, your wallet will take a bigger hit than necessary.

Additionally, some taxi drivers will attempt to overcharge tourists, especially in Bratislava. Ensure you’re in an official cab (have the bar or hotel call a cab for you if you’re unsure), and insist on paying what the meter reads.

Another common scam involves strangers slashing your tires and then offering you help when you notice. If you see you have a flat tire and someone offers help, be suspicious. Keep an eye on your belongings, as theft is nearly always an objective in these situations.

Besides those specific scams, simply practice the same vigilance you would anywhere else. Keep your wallet and purse secure, especially in crowded areas, take care at ATMs, don’t travel in flashy jewelry, be wary of assertive or aggressive strangers, take care when travelling at night, and keep an eye on your drinks at the bar.

Travellers heading into the mountains should consider hiring a guide. If not, ensure you’re well-prepared with maps, GPS routes, proper clothing and footwear, and contacts off the trail who know where you’re going and when to expect you back.

Skiing Slovakia Jasna Nizke Tatry Chopok

Most travelling to Slovakia come between June and August when the warm summer weather is at its best. If you’re keen to explore the cities, hike, swim, or bike, summer is the perfect time to make the trip. If you’re more interested in skiing, December through February are ideal.

The busiest season in Slovakia is July and August, so be prepared for potentially heavier crowds around tourist attractions should you choose to visit during the summer.

In line with much of the rest of Europe, Slovakia boasts a well-connected public transport system that makes getting from A to B quite easy. In addition, other modes of transport and the small size of the country make it easy to navigate.

Not many travellers will fly across Slovakia. While you certainly could book a flight, taking the train is generally the more popular option. Most domestic flights serve to cover the ground between Bratislava and Košice. This route is run by Czech Airlines.

Trains are the easiest (and most scenic!) way to travel through Slovakia. The route between Bratislava and Košice is the most popular in the country, but you can also take the train to the north or south ends of the country.

We recommend buying tickets online in advance, as navigating the train system on the fly without any knowledge of Slovak can be hit or miss. The most popular train lines are Intercity (IC), or Eurocity (EC). You can purchase tickets online through Slovak Railways .

Slovak Karst Caves Slovak Karst Caves

With an impressive network of bus lines spidering through the country, it’s impressively easy to reach even seemingly remote towns by bus in Slovakia. We recommend paying close attention to timetables , as weekends, evenings, holidays, and the size of the town served all affect how often buses run.

If you prefer total control over your travel plans and the flexibility to move around without a schedule, renting a car might be the best way to get around Slovakia. Rental cars can be arranged in Bratislava, Košice, and Poprad. You may need an International Driving Permit to drive in Slovakia, so we recommend touching base with a rental car company in advance to check.

Highways in Slovakia are kept in good shape, but you may find potholes, cobblestone streets, and narrow lanes in cities and towns. Take care. Additionally, know that winter tires may be mandatory in the snow, and you’ll not be permitted to drive with any alcohol in your system. Speed limits in Slovakia may feel fast to drivers from some countries- you’ll see drivers easily exceeding 130km/hr on the highway. Keep out of the passing lane unless passing and note seasonal reductions in speed limits.

When you travel to Slovakia, you’ll have a few choices of where to rest your head each night.

For those on a budget, hostels are available. Check out Hostel World for locations throughout the country.

Camping isn’t as popular or easy in Slovakia as it is in some other European destinations, as wild camping or random camping is prohibited. You’ll need to book a designated campsite , some of which offer nice facilities and spaces for campers or other larger vehicles.

Most travellers to Slovakia will stay in hotels, which are safe bets across the country. You’ll be able to find a hotel room in most places you end up.

St.Elisabeth Cathedral Kosice Slovakia

Booking Accommodation

These are some of our most-used websites to book hotels on: Booking.com , Hotels.com , Expedia.com , and Agoda.com . For long-term rentals or more unique listings, check with Vrbo.com .

Booking Flights

Trying to snag the best price possible? Check out Skyscanner or CheapOair . Those waiting for the cheapest time to book flights should download the Hopper app.

Train Tickets and Car Rentals

Book train tickets with Slovak Railways .

To score a deal on your car rental, check Economy Bookings . Leaving your car at the terminal? Try using Airport Parking Reservations to save some cash on airport parking.

Planning on getting out and about? Of course you are. For warm winter threads suitable for the hill or trail, some of our favourites are Arc’teryx , Patagonia , and Helly Hansen . For those needing trail running and hiking gear, check Salomon and the Running Room . And if you plan on doing some hiking and backpacking, gear up through MEC or MSR .

We recommend choosing your gear ahead of time and bringing it with you, as quality outdoor gear is not very widely available in Slovakia.

Slovakia is part of the Schengen zone, a group of countries in Europe with standardized visa requirements. You can find a list of countries whose nationals are required to apply for a visa prior to travelling to Slovakia on the Schengen Visa Info website , but always check with your local travel authority to confirm. Depending on your country of origin, you may need to apply for a visa just to change planes in the Schengen area. For quick reference, citizens of Canada and the United States do not require visas. Tourist visas are normally valid for 90 days.

No matter where you fall in terms of your visa, you’ll always need a valid passport issued within the last 10 years and valid until 3 months after your departure date. Certain criminal convictions can prevent your entry to Slovakia, so it’s good to check ahead to make sure you’re eligible for entry.

Tokaj wine region vineyards

Want some fun facts to share with your newfound Slovak friends? Here are some interesting claims to fame for Slovakia.

• Slovakia boasts the highest number of castles per capita in the world. There are 180 castles and 450 chateaux within its borders.
• Even more impressive than the number of castles is the number of caves in Slovakia: 6000 of them!
• Bratislava is the only capital city in the world that borders two other countries (Hungary and Austria).
• The geographical middle of Europe is in Slovakia, close to a village called Kremnické Bane.
• You can stand in awe of the tallest Gothic wooden altar in the world here. It’s the altar of St. Jakub.
• The oldest toy ever discovered was dug up near Košice: a 3000-year old wheeled pushcart.

Frequently Asked Questions about Slovakia

Nobody hops on a plane without a few questions first! Hopefully these answers to frequently asked questions about travelling to Slovakia help you plan your perfect trip.

What language do Slovaks speak?

Well, Slovaks speak Slovak. Slovak is similar to literary Czech, but the two languages are distinct. You’ll likely also come across German, Hungarian, and Czech speakers while travelling through Slovakia. Many Slovaks know some English, especially younger generations, but it’s not as reliably spoken as in some other European countries.

How should I travel around Slovakia?

Trains and buses are the best way to travel within Slovakia. They’re well-connected, affordable, and allow you to appreciate the fantastic scenery.

Is Slovakia cold?

Sometimes, yes! Slovakia enjoys pleasant summers and chillier winters. If visiting between November and March, expect some occasional below-freezing temperatures and snow, especially closer to the mountains.

Vysoke Tatry Strba Tarn Lake

Is Slovakia dangerous?

Slovakia is not especially dangerous for travellers. Exercise the same common-sense safety practices you would anywhere else.

Does Slovakia use the euro?

Yes. You can pay using the euro in Slovakia, which was adopted as their currency in 2009.

What is the food like in Slovakia?

Slovakian cuisine is similar to other Central European nations, focusing on meat and dairy. Slovakian food was born of a need for high-energy, affordable, quick meals for peasants, herders, and labourers. Lovers of leafy greens should prepare themselves: vegetables are not as plentiful or diverse in Slovakian food.

Expect dishes like pork dumplings, pierogies, cabbage soup, bread with meats or jam, and goulash soup. While in Bratislava, you’ll be able to find more popular chain restaurants and fast food if you look for it.

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EXPERIENCE SLOVAKIA

The country in the heart of Europe will surprise you with varied and unique experiences, rich history, undiscovered places, authentic culture and dynamic nowadays. SLOVAKIA TRAVEL is a national tourism promotion agency that presents Slovakia at home and abroad as a surprisingly wonderful and attractive country worth exploring. Slovakia – what a surprise! Come to experience it yourself.

Slovakia is a green oasis of Europe with exceptional natural wealth and beautiful, unsuspected places in every region.But it also offers beauty and surprising experiences in its cities, whether it's dynamic Bratislava with a unique location or Banská Štiavnica, which speaks through the silence of its streets, or inspiring Košice. Every city is a reason for a stop and a pleasant pastime. Every city in Slovakia proudly offers many attractions, exceptional historical references, and an attractive present. Please choose from the proposed experiences and let yourself be pleasantly surprised by an offer to relax in the nearby surroundings or tour the city with all its daytime and evening attractions. Slovak cities are a pleasant surprise on your travels.

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Culture and sights, pages full of slovakia beauties..

In the online publications of SLOVAKIA TRAVEL you can comfortably view and visit the most beautiful places in Slovakia. Each publication is a unique sample for you, especially an invitation to visit the amazing places of the country in the heart of Europe and get acquainted with its rich history and inspiring present. Let yourself be guided by the world of a spa, a golf experience, a delicacy on your plate or a glass full of sunshine. Hold your breath and admire the beauty of UNESCO monuments or the views of our mountains.

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Slovakia Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Slovakia is a Central European country known for its dramatic mountainous landscapes, medieval history, and stunning architecture. As a land-locked country, it’s been part of numerous empires and governments throughout its history, all of which have left their own unique influence on the region.

I’ve visited Slovakia several times over the years and I’m always amazed at how much is packed into such a small country (as well as how few people visit beyond the capital). While Bratislava gets plenty of attention, the country as a whole sees a fraction of the crowds compared to its neighbors.

But their loss is your gain!

Slovakia is filled with beautiful rivers, lakes, national parks, tiny towns, and castle ruins. And compared to its neighbors it’s also quite affordable. It’s the perfect place to hike, road trip, and escape Europe’s summer crowds — all while on a budget!

This travel guide to Slovakia can help you save money, plan your visit, and make the most of your trip to this underrated gem!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Slovakia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Slovakia

1. Explore Bratislava

Bratislava is Slovakia’s capital and largest city. Bordering both Austria and Hungary, its position on the banks of the Danube make it an obvious point of entry for most travelers. Don’t miss the city’s Old Town and Bratislava Castle. There’s also an eclectic music scene here.

2. Visit Košice

Košice is the second-largest city in Slovakia, dating back to the 13th century. The city center encompasses the historic part of town and has the largest number of historical monuments in the country. Be sure to visit the 13th-century St. Elisabeth Cathedral.

3. See Banská Štiavnica

This well-preserved UNESCO medieval town sits in a valley formed after an ancient volcano collapsed. Be sure to visit the open-air mining museum, where you can walk more than a kilometer underground (10 EUR, an additional 15 EUR for a tour in English).

4. Hike Slovak Paradise National Park

Slovak Paradise National Park boasts over 100 kilometers (62-miles) of hiking trails, passing through canyons, meadows, and more waterfalls than you can count. The hiking isn’t difficult, but you must navigate narrow passages, climb steep ladders, and use chains above ravines.

5. Take a wine tour

Not far from Bratislava lies Modra, which is the place to go for wine tours and tastings. Look out for the annual Modra Wine Cellars Day, when many of the wine cellars in the area organize a day-long tasting for visitors. Expect to pay at least 40 EUR for a tour.

Other Things to See and Do in Slovakia

1. visit the slovak karst caves.

There are almost 2,500 caves in Slovakia — and only 400 of them have been explored. In the southern Slovak Karst region, there are plenty of options but if you want a truly unique experience, visit a section of Domica Cave where you can take an underground boat ride on the River Styx (trip to Hades not included). Admission including the boat ride is 9 EUR. Other caves worth checking out are Dobšinská Ice Cave, Harmanecka, and Gombasecka.

2. Go rock climbing

Head to the mountains around Terchová in the north or Slovenský Raj in the east for some world-class rock climbing. You’ll find beautiful gorges that you can climb for free thanks to the ropes and ladders already in place. If you’re new to rock climbing and would rather do a guided trip, expect to pay around 80 EUR per person.

3. Run the oldest marathon in Europe

The Košice Peace Marathon is the oldest marathon in Europe (and the second oldest marathon in the world). Held in Košice each year since 1924, the city is completely overtaken by the event as thousands come to take part, watch, and celebrate. The marathon happens on the first Sunday in October. If you want to run the race yourself, registration is 37 EUR. Be sure to book your accommodation far in advance as the entire city fills up.

4. Relax in a thermal cave bath

For a uniquely Slovakian experience, visit the Parenica cave bath at the Sklené Teplice spa. Located in Central Slovakia, these natural hot springs have been in use for centuries. The water is a constant 42°C (107°F) and is perfect for relaxing (especially if you’re visiting in the winter). Bath visits last 20 minutes and are included in your stay at the spa, which costs around 70 EUR per night.

5. Tour the Nedbalka Gallery

The Nedbalka Gallery in Bratislava has a spectacular award-winning design that resembles the Guggenheim Museum in New York City and is a stark contrast to the more traditional medieval buildings that make up the city’s Old Town. The gallery, which was heavily remodeled in 2012, spans five floors and is home to over 1,000 works depicting Slovak culture. Admission is 5 EUR and includes a coffee or tea at the gallery’s café.

6. Hike the smallest alpine mountain range in Europe

The most famous national park in Slovakia, High Tatras is located in the north of the country along the border with Poland . Stretching 53 kilometers (33 miles), it’s the smallest alpine mountain range in Europe. If you want to reach the peak of the High Tatras, Gerlachovsky Stit, you need to hire a mountain guide as the ascent is extremely challenging and not to be attempted alone. If you don’t want to hike (or want an easier option), Lomnicky Stit is slightly lower and far more accessible thanks to the cable car to the top. During the winter, there are several ski resorts here. Round-trip cable car tickets are expensive at 59 EUR, however, you can hike up part way and then take the cable car for half price.

7. Explore an ice cave

One of the most popular caves in the country is Dobšinská, an ice cave located near Dobšiná in Central Slovakia. Discovered in 1870, the caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first caves in Europe to be lit by electricity. The cave spans over 1,500 acres and is full of all kinds of stunning natural ice formations. Admission is 9 EUR for a 30-minute visit.

8. Visit the Old Market Hall (Stará tržnica)

Each Saturday between 9am-3pm the Old Market Hall in Bratislava hosts its weekly market where you can buy food and goods from regional farmers and producers. There’s also a children’s theater performance and book fair every Saturday. The current building dates to 1910, however, there were medieval fortifications here dating back to the 16th century. In addition to foods and produce, the market also hosts cultural events, music performances, two cafes, a brewery, and a cooking school. The Old Market Hall also hosts an annual beer festival (called Salón Piva) where you can sample the locally produced beer.

9. Go hiking

Slovakia is one of the best countries in Europe for hiking. There are hundreds of trails, including dozens of long-distance routes as well as easy, moderate, and challenging day hikes. Some hikes to check out are Rysy Mountain, near the border of Poland (20km, 10 hours); Kriván, considered Slovakia’s most beautiful mountain (6km, 4 hours); and Popradske Pleso, a picturesque alpine hike (4km, 2 hours). If you’re going hiking in the mountains, be sure to check the weather in advance as conditions can change rapidly. Always make sure you have the proper gear and plenty of water too.

10. Hit the slopes

The Tatra mountain range rivals the Alps when it comes to beauty. However, when it comes to skiing, there are fewer skiers and cheaper prices in Slovakia (lift tickets are upwards of 75% cheaper than in neighboring Austria). Some ski resorts to visit are Jasná Nízke Tatry (Liptovský Mikuláš), Relax Center Plejsy (Krompachy), Tale (Bystra), and Malinô Brdo (Ružomberok). Expect to pay around 49 EUR for a lift pass, however, you can find passes for as little as 8-16 EUR in places like Moštenica, Zliechov, and Skorušina.

Slovakia Travel Costs

Outside of Bratislava, budget hotel rooms start around 25-40 EUR per night. In Bratislava, expect to pay closer to double that.

Airbnb is a budget-friendly option available around the country with private rooms starting at 25 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 50 EUR per night.

For anyone traveling with a tent, camping is available around the country. Wild camping is legal but be sure to double-check as it is illegal in certain protected areas (no camping in the High Tatras or national parks, for example). You’re also not allowed to camp in forested areas and should use caution when lighting fires as this is generally prohibited. Official campgrounds are scattered around the country with basic plots for two without electricity costing 14-16 EUR per night.

Food – Slovakian cuisine is based on three main staples: pork, cabbage, and potatoes (much like many of its neighbors). Polish and Hungarian influences abound, so expect lots of soups, sauerkraut, breaded meats, and dumplings. Lunch is the main meal of the day, with soup being the most common main course. A popular local delicacy is jaternica , a blood sausage made with pig’s blood and buckwheat. Halušky (soft ptato dumplings) and schnitzel are two other popular traditional choices.

For an inexpensive meal of traditional cuisine, expect to pay around 7-12 EUR. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 5-7 EUR for a combo meal. Thai and Indian food can be found in a couple of the larger cities in the country, costing 8-13 EUR for a main dish.

If you want to splash out, a three-course meal of traditional cuisine costs around 20 EUR, including a drink.

Expect to pay between 1.50-2.50 EUR for a beer and about the same for a latte or cappuccino (if you buy beer at the grocery store it’s just 1-1.50 EUR). A glass of wine generally costs around 2.50-4 EUR.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 20-35 EUR for basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat. A medium-sized bag of pasta is less than 1 EUR, fresh buns (like croissants) are around .50 EUR while a loaf of bread is around 2 EUR. Cereal is around 1.50 EUR while a large bag of potato chips is 1.50-2 EUR.

If you’re vegan or vegetarian, Bratislava has tons of options. Beyond the large supermarkets (which have things like soy meat and alternative kinds of milk), there are a handful of vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants around the city, including Šmak (vegan sushi), Vegan Kiosk (vegan burgers and wraps), and La Donuteria (vegan and non-vegan donuts).

Other suggested places to eat in Bratislava include U Sedliaka (traditional Slovakian food), Mezcalli (Mexican food), and Next Apache (a small cafe that sells used books).

Backpacking Slovakia Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking Slovakia, my suggested budget is 45 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, doing free activities like walking tours and hiking, limiting your drinking, visiting some cheap attractions like museums or galleries, and using public transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of 105 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb apartment, eat out for most of your meals at budget-friendly restaurants serving traditional cuisine, go out for some drinks, take some guided tours, visit more paid attractions like the caves, and take the occasional taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 200 EUR, you can stay in a hotel, eat out at any restaurant you want, rent a car, drink as much as you want, and see as many castles and museums as you can handle! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Slovakia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Slovakia is one of the cheaper Central European countries and it’s easy here to travel on a budget. That said, if you’re looking for ways to trim your expenses, here are my favorite ways to save money in the country:

• Take a free walking tour – Bratislava offers a handful of free walking tours which are a great way to get familiar with the city and its culture on a budget. Be Free Tours is the most popular tour company. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Ride Flixbus – Flixbus is a budget-friendly way to get around the country (as well as the region). They have Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and decent enough seats for overnight and long-haul bus journeys.
• Cook your own meals – Book accommodation with a kitchen so you can cook your own meals. Buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as going out to eat, but it does save money.
• Get outdoors – The easiest way to keep active and save money is to get outdoors and explore Slovakia’s national parks. Most don’t charge an entry fee. Nature fills your days and avoids slimming your wallet!
• Wild camp – If you really want to save money in Slovakia, bring your tent as wild camping is legal. You can pitch your tent on almost all public land throughout Slovakia. Just avoid national parks and forests.
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing is a great way to not only save money, but you’ll also connect with a knowledgeable local who can help you better understand the country and its people.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water in Slovakia is safe so bring a reusable water bottle to avoid single-use plastic. A filtered bottle like LifeStraw ensures your water is safe and clean. It’s perfect for anyone planning to hike or explore the country’s national parks.

Where to Stay in Slovakia

The hostel scene in Slovakia does not disappoint. Most have reliable Wi-Fi, kitchens, and are clean and modern. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Slovakia:

• Hostel Folks (Bratislava)
• Wild Elephants Hostel (Bratislava)
• The Ginger Monkey (High Tatras)
• Happy Bull (Kosice)
• Nitra Glycerin Hostel (Nitra)

How to Get Around Slovakia

Public transportation – For public transportation around cities, the fare is generally proportional to the duration of the journey. For example, in Bratislava, a 30-minute ride costs 0.90 EUR while a 60-minute ride costs 1.20 EUR. Day passes are available in most of the cities for around 4.50 EUR.

Bus – Flixbus is the most budget-friendly option to explore the country. The bus from Bratislava to Košice costs 22 EUR for the 6.5-hour journey. For Bratislava to Budapest, Hungary, the 2.5-hour bus ride ranges from 12-26 EUR while the one-hour trip from Bratislava to Vienna, Austria can be done for 9 EUR.

Trains – Trains are more expensive than buses and don’t reach as many destinations in the country. However, they’re a lot quicker. Bratislava to Poprad takes around 4 hours and costs 15 EUR. The 5.5-hour journey to Košice costs 18 EUR. The 2.5-hour trip to Budapest, Hungary costs 10 EUR while the 90-minute ride to Vienna, Austria costs 5 EUR.

Budget Airlines – There are no domestic flights around Slovakia.

Car Rental – Car rentals can be as low as 25 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. You need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to rent a vehicle.

When to Go to Slovakia

Slovakia has four distinct seasons. The summers are sunny and hot and see the biggest influx of visitors. July-August is the most popular time to visit, with daily highs around 27°C (81°F).

During the shoulder seasons, you avoid both the heat and the crowds. The best months to visit are between May-June or September-October, especially if you’re hiking. There are cooler temperatures and, in the fall, you get to see the leaves change. Expect temperatures around 20°C (68°F).

Winter is cold and snowy with temperatures dropping below freezing so I’d only visit if you plan on doing some winter sports, such as skiing.

How to Stay Safe in Slovakia

Slovakia is a very safe country to visit; it’s the 19th safest country in the world. Violent crime against tourists is virtually nonexistent. Pickpocketing can occur, however, especially in high-traffic areas such as Bratislava’s Old Town. Keep your valuables safely tucked away when in public just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If someone strikes up a conversation with you trying to sell something or if young children approach you, be on alert — their friend may be reaching for your wallet while you’re distracted.

If you’re worried about getting scammed, read this post on common travel scams to avoid.

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it while you’re hiking or overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you’re hiking here (especially doing alpine hiking in the mountains), make sure you let your hostel/hotel staff know just in case. Always bring a first aid kit as well as basic gear like a flashlight, raincoat, and extra food just in case.

If you experience an emergency, dial 158 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Slovakia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Slovakia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

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Best Of Slovakia Itinerary: 8 Days In Slovakia

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 60 mins read
• Post last modified: February 8, 2024
• Post comments: 14 Comments

Welcome to Slovakia, a central European  country full of surprises  and treasures. I’m from Slovakia, lived there for the first 18 years of my life, and visited places on this itinerary multiple times . I was thinking about what would make you visit this awesome country, so I’ve picked the highlights and created this 8-day itinerary through Slovakia for you.

It’ll show you the most beautiful places , bring you closer to the culture and traditions , you’ll get to taste local food , and enjoy some hiking trails in my favorite place – The High Tatras Mountains.

Are you ready to experience one of the most beautiful European countries? Let’s get started.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Overview Of The Slovakia Itinerary & Map

Here is an overview of this itinerary for Slovakia with a map for your reference. Save it and navigate the country during your road trip.

How To Get Around Slovakia & Make This Itinerary

The best way to get around Slovakia is by car . There are also trains and buses , but they aren’t reliable. Trains often have significant delays and will only take you to major cities in the country. Buses will get you almost everywhere, but it takes a long time , so you would lose a lot of time.

Having a car will get you to all the hidden gems in Slovakia and allow you to visit what you want.

So, if you want to make this itinerary through Slovakia, rent a car in Bratislava for 7 days . Do so on day 2. of this itinerary. You’ll return it in Bratislava on day 8 .

RENT A CAR FOR YOUR ITINERARY

Rent A Car Via Discover Cars – best prices and big selection of car rentals. PRO TIP: Check ratings of the company you choose before booking ( ratings can be off ). Go on Google, see ratings of the car rental company, then book on Discover Cars.

0. DAY: ARRIVE IN BRATISLAVA

The day before you start our itinerary, arrive in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. The flights to Bratislava are usually more expensive. I recommend flying to nearby airports and then  taking a train  or a bus to Slovakia, Bratislava.

The nearest and most accessible airport near Bratislava is the  Vienna Airport . The flights are cheap, so you can fly to Vienna, take a direct bus or train, and travel to Bratislava.

Alternatively, if you are in the  Czech Republic , visiting Prague , you can easily  take a train or a bus to Bratislava . The connections are great and affordable.

PRO TIP: My favorite bus and train company in Central Europe is Regiojet . So check their rates for connections to Slovakia.

➡ Book a train to Bratislava via Trainline (best rates).

➡ Check out bus connections to Bratislava via Busbud.

Where To Stay In Bratislava: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

Check in to your accommodation in Bratislava in the evening and enjoy the first impressions of the Slovakian capital.

VIP APARTMENTS – budget-friendly apartments ARCADIA BOUTIQUE HOTEL – mid-range hotel GRAND HOTEL RIVER PARK – luxury hotel

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

1. day: bratislava.

Let our itinerary start in Bratislava. We will kick the tour off with the  sightseeing of the Slovakian capital . Below, I’m giving you some quick facts about Bratislava and things to do.

Quick Facts About Bratislava

Located at the  border with Austria  (15 15-minute drive) and  Hungary , Bratislava is the only capital in the world close to the borders of 2 countries.

The  Czech Republic  is also not that far away, only 45-minute drive from Bratislava, so we might say that the Slovakian capital stands at the border of 3 countries.

The city’s name has not always been Bratislava. It only  adopted this name in 1919 . Before, the town was called  Pressburg .

Only in 1993 Bratislava became an  independent capital  of the Slovakian Republic. Back then, Slovakia used to be  part of Czechoslovakia . Czechoslovakia was a centralized country, and the main capital city was Prague .

Sightseeing In Bratislava

🔅 Bratislava Castle 🔅 Michael’s Gate 🔅 St. Martin’s Cathedral 🔅 Bratislava Old Town 🔅 UFO Restaurant & Viewing Point 🔅 Danube River Promenade

🔅 Bratislava Castle

Under  Queen Maria Theresa , Bratislava Castle became a  famous royal seat . It was built in the 9th century and followed almost every architectural style. It used to be a  Gothic castle . In 1562, it was reconstructed as a Baroque castle and later became a Renaissance castle. 

🔅 Michael’s Gate

It’s the only Gate that has been preserved from the medieval city walls . On the top of the tower, there is a statue of St. Michael and the dragon . The building hosts an exposition of weapons .

🔅 St. Martin’s Cathedral

Not only is it the largest church in Bratislava , but also one of the oldest ones . Back in the times of the Kingdom of Hungary, the church was used for coronation purposes .

🔅 Bratislava Old Town

Stroll through the old town’s streets and enjoy good Slovakian food (such as bryndzove halusky). Get an ice cream at – Ice Saloon Luculus . I also have a little game for you here – while walking through the town, try to find an icon of Bratislava on the street: waterman .

🔅 UFO Restaurant

Visit  UFO  for  amazing views  of Bratislava Castle, the entire city, and its surroundings. I love this restaurant. It’s a perfect place for a  date night . You  can only visit it for the views  and don’t have to eat if you don’t want to. Or  have a cocktail  with stunning views of the Slovakian capital at the start of your road trip.

🔅 Danube River Promenade

Walk on the Danube promenade. It’s a beautiful  romantic walk , and you can do so with a visit to the UFO.

Bratislava Guided Tour

Join this guided tour of Bratislava to learn more about its history and the local culture with a local.

Where To Eat In Bratislava

• Best ice cream – Ice Saloon Luculus in the Old Town of Bratislava
• Buchtaren – to try traditional Slovakian dish ‘Buchta’
• Bratislava Flagship – for traditional Slovakian cuisine

Buchta is kind of like a giant dumpling , a traditional Slovakian dish . It’s usually sweet, but here, they also make savoury ‘buchta’. You have to try, it’s super delicious.

After seeing Bratislava today, you can go to the Bratislava Flagship for a traditional Slovakian lunch or dinner.

👉 READ ALSO: 20 Best Day Trips From Bratislava

2. DAY: BRATISLAVA ⇒ ČIČMANY ⇒ RAJECKÁ LESNÁ ⇒ RAJECKÉ TEPLICE

Good morning to Bratislava. I hope you slept well. Today, we are heading off on a real Slovakian adventure. We’ll drive north to explore some unique places.

You’ll drive through the highway initially and then follow smaller roads, which also very nice. We will first stop in a traditional picturesque Slovakian village .

Distance Bratislava ⇒ Čičmany: 1 hour & 55 minutes by car (175 km/108 miles)

On the way to Čičmany, you can visit one of the most beautiful castles in Slovakia . It’s located in Trenčín city . You can stop there for a good cup of coffee (there are some great coffee shops), or a donut on the main square.

Visit Trenčiansky Castle and then continue to Čičmany.

Here in  Čičmany village , the houses are built from black timber, decorated with traditional patterns, painted in white lime on each of these houses. It’s a perfect  showcase of Slovakian folk art .

Locals started to paint their wooden houses with white lime as it helped preserve them. As they loved the design, they eventually painted almost all the houses here.

Park your car and enjoy a nice walk through this small village. You can get some coffee and food at a local restaurant . Then continue your journey to Rajecká Lesná . You have driven the longest ride for today. The next 2 stops are very close to Čičmany, so you don’t have to hurry up.

Distance Čičmany ⇒ Rajecká Lesná: 16 minutes by car (15 km/9 miles)

Rajecká L esná

I’ve brought you to this small Slovakian village to see the carved wooden Bethlehem . Jozef Pekara, a Slovakian carpenter, carved this Bethlehem, and it took him 15 years to finish it.

He began the construction and carving process back in 1980. As we know it, Bethlehem displays the birth of Jesus Christ and captures Bethlehem’s atmosphere, from where the story comes.

This wooden Bethlehem has all together 300 figures , and many of them are animated. It’s a gorgeous artwork that you shouldn’t miss in your Slovakian itinerary. You can buy the tickets on the spot. 

It’s 8.5 metres long, 2.5 metres wide, and 3 metres high, making it one of the largest carved Betlehems in Europe.

After this small excursion, let’s drive slightly further to finish the day at the local thermal Spa .

Distance Rajecká Lesná ⇒ Rajecké Teplice: 14 minutes by car (16 km/10 miles)

Rajecké T eplice & Thermal Spa

You’ll end the day in the Spa town of Rajecké Teplice . Enjoy the evening in the thermal baths , go for a walk around the nearby Swan Lake, and soak up the atmosphere.

You can also stay at the Aphrodite Palace that’s connected to the thermal baths.

FUN FACT: Rajec , apart from being a town, is also Slovakian mineral water that comes from this region. If you want to try, you can get it in any supermarket.

Where To Stay In Rajecké Teplice: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

PENSION FLAMM – budget-friendly apartments WELLNESS HOTEL DIPLOMAT – mid-range hotel APHRODITE PALACE – luxury hotel with thermal spa

3. DAY: RAJECKÉ TEPLICE ⇒ SALAŠ KRAJINKA ⇒ DEMÄNOVSKÁ CAVE ⇒ LIPTOVSKÝ JÁN

I hope you had a lovely relaxing time yesterday at the Spa and you’re ready to drive further north to one of the most beautiful Slovakian regions. Its name is  Liptov , and it offers many beautiful nature spots and typical Slovakian villages.

As our first stop, we head to a  traditional Slovakian village  with  local food and animals . Are you ready to experience how the Slovakian shepherds live?

Distance Rajecké Teplice ⇒ Salaš Krajinka: 1 hour by car (70 km/43 miles)

Salaš K rajinka

Experience the life of Slovakian shepherds in  Salaš Krajinka  (landscape sheds). You will learn how they treat the sheep and process the sheep milk by hand into the traditional Slovakian cheese –  bryndza .

Taste and  buy various types of cheese  at the local cottages and  eat some Slovakian dishes  at the local restaurant. This place is fantastic and perfectly reflects our Slovakian culture.

After, we’ll continue and reach the  Low Tatras mountains  region, with spectacular nature and many highlights to see. One of them is the  Demänovská Valley  with its caves.

Distance Salaš Krajinka ⇒ Demänovská Cave of Liberty: 36 minutes by car (40 km/25 miles)

Demänovská Valley & Cave Of Liberty

Demänovská Valley   is one of the most visited places in Slovakia. Not only is it a great hiking and skiing region, but it’s also home to the  longest cave system in Slovakia .

We’ll visit one of the caves today. Come on a tour and watch the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave. You’ll also see the karst ponds and the underground River Demänovka. Learn about the history and creation of this cave system on a guided tour .

Note that there are  time slots for the guided tour  inside the cave. It’s not possible to enter the cave individually. You can  book it on the spot .

See the time slots for the tour below:

You can only pay cash (EUR), they don’t accept card payments.

After you explore the caves, let’s head to our accommodation for the night. You can either stay in  Demänovská Valley  or drive to  Liptovský Ján  to sleep in a traditional Liptov chalet.

Distance Demänovská Cave of Liberty ⇒ Liptovský Ján: 16 minutes by car (17 km/10 miles)

Liptovský Ján

Drive to  Liptovský Ján.  It’s a charming place with the traditional atmosphere of the Slovakian region, Liptov. Liptov is my favorite Slovakian region – it also perfectly reflects Slovakian culture and traditions.

HOTEL RECOMMENDATION:  Stay at the  Hotel Liptovský Dvor   – it has many separate wooden chalets where you can spend the night. It’s a great experience.

If you want to stay in Demänovska Valley, I recommend booking Hotel Tri Studničky .

👉 READ ALSO: What To See In Slovakia In 3 Days

4. DAY: LIPTOVSKÝ JÁN ⇒ ŠTRBSKÉ PLESO, HIGH TATRAS

Good morning to the Liptov region. Let’s continue our journey on the Slovakian itinerary. We’ll leave the Low Tatras mountains and drive to Slovakia’s most beautiful spot – the  High Tatras Mountain Range .

It’s unique for its mountain lakes, unspoiled nature with many waterfalls, and incredible hiking trails. Our stop is called  Štrbské Pleso . It’s one of the mountain resorts in the High Tatras, where we stay overnight and enjoy the benefits of the Slovakian mountains.

Distance Liptovský Ján ⇒ Štbrské Pleso: 32 minutes by car (41 km/25 miles)

Štrbské Pleso, High Tatras

Let yourself have time to immerse yourself into the atmosphere of High Tatras fully .  Today, you’ll have a free afternoon to explore  Štrbské Pleso .  Walk alongside the Štrbské Lake, further up where the ski slopes are, with some local markets. Enjoy and relax.

You’ll have the  entire day in Štrbské Pleso , so if you want, you can explore other spots in the High Tatras in the afternoon.

Below, I’m giving you a few options for  activities within the High Tatras .

Best Things To Do In The High Tatras

High Tatras has 3 main towns you can visit:

• Štrbské Pleso
• Starý Smokovec
• Tatranská Lomnica

I think Štrbské Pleso offers the most activities and best hotels, so I recommend staying here for 2 nights and making it your base.

From Starý Smokovec , you can head to Hrebienok , an excellent place with some activities. You can do some sliding on the hill .

In Tatranská Lomnica , you can ride a  bobsled in summer , which is much fun.

You’ll get the most out of High Tatras by staying in Štrbské Pleso, walking around its lake, and enjoying wellness at your hotel. The next day, choose to hike to one of the mountain huts.

PRO TIP: One of my favorite things is to take a train alongside the entire High Tatras mountain range . It starts in Štrbské Pleso and goes through Starý Smokovec to Tatranská Lomnica. It’s a pleasant journey, and it only costs 4 Euros for the entire day.

Where To Stay In HIGH TATRAS – Štrbské Pleso: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

APLEND LAKE RESORT – budget-friendly hotel WELLNESS HOTEL BOROVICA – mid-range hotel GRAND HOTEL KEMPINSKI – luxury hotel at the lake (best option)

5. DAY: HIKING IN HIGH TATRAS

Today, we are going on a fantastic hiking tour . Get a good breakfast to gain energy for the track.

We’ll walk through the forests and a rocky trail of High Tatras and visit a mountain chalet with a spectacular lake surrounded by rocks and mountains. The place is called  Popradské Pleso .

This hiking  trail is easy . You don’t have to be especially fit to reach our chalet destination.

Hiking Trail From Štrbské Pleso To Popradské Pleso

Start in  Štrbské Pleso  town, from where head towards the Štrbské Lake (Štrbské Pleso). Just before the lake, you’ll have to turn right. Walk slightly further on the road until you reach a forest. This is where our  hiking trail starts .

You’ll walk to the  Popradské Pleso  – don’t worry, there is no way to get lost.  Hiking signs  on the way (see the photo) tell you how far your destination is and how long you still have to walk.

Just make sure you are checking ‘ Popradské Pleso.’  That’s your destination.

Distance hiking trail Štrbské Pleso ⇒ Popradské Pleso: approx. 1 hours on foot (5 km/3 miles)

Once you reach the Popradské Pleso , there is a chalet, a traditional Slovakian hiking hut , where you can get lunch and snacks . After, enjoy the walk around Popradské Lake. It has a path you can follow around.

After, let’s head back to Štrbské Pleso town. Enjoy your afternoon in the High Tatras,  relax , and soak up the local atmosphere.

Hiking Trails In The High Tatras

I’ve chosen the easiest hiking route to Popradské Pleso for you. But if you want to challenge yourself and want to hike further up to the mountains, you can also visit the following mountain huts as a day trip from Štrbské Pleso:

🔅 Terýho Chata (starting point is Hrebienok) 🔅 Zbojnícka Chata (starting point is Hrebienok) 🔅 Chata Pri Zelenom Plese (starting point is Tatranska Lomnica)

Take a train in the morning from Štrbské Pleso to one of the starting points, and you can enjoy these hiking trails, too.

Or check out other best hiking trails in High Tatras and choose the one you’d love to do.

👉 READ ALSO: 5-Day Itinerary For Hut-To-Hut Hiking High Tatras Slovakia

6. DAY: HIGH TATRAS ⇒ SPIŠSKÝ CASTLE ⇒ SLOVAKIAN PARADISE

Good morning to the High Tatras. Take your time and have breakfast; today, we have a pleasant drive, visiting two beautiful things.

In the morning, we’ll stay in the High Tatras and visit the sidewalk atop the trees with spectacular views. The place is called  Bachledka Sidewalk on the top of the trees .

Distance Štrbské Pleso ⇒ Bachledka Tree-Top Sidewalk: 50 minutes by car (38 km/23 miles)

Bachledka Tree-Top Sidewalk

Park the car in the nearby parking place. Let’s enjoy the spectacular   tree-top walk   on a wooden trail. It’s  1.2 kilometers (0.7 miles) long , and on the top, you will get  stunning views  of the entire region.

Let’s continue our Slovakia road trip itinerary. We will now pass to another Slovakian region. We are about to visit one of the most beautiful Slovakian castles.

Distance Bachledka Tree-Top Sidewalk ⇒ Spišský Castle: 1 hour by car (66 km/41 miles)

Spišský Castle

Welcome to   Spišský Castle .  Its construction started in the 12th century. In 1780, the  castle was damaged by a fire , and since then, it has been regarded as a castle ruin.

Nevertheless, today, the castle ruin looks amazing and belongs to the largest ones in Central Europe. There is an  educational trail with 8 stations  to learn more about the castle ruins and surroundings.

👉 READ ALSO: 6 Fairy-Tale Castles In Slovakia

In the afternoon, we’ll continue our road trip to another picturesque Slovakian region, the  Slovakian Paradise  (Slovenský Raj). The village we’ll stay overnight in Slovakian Paradise is called  Podlesok .

Distance Spišský Castle ⇒ Podlesok (Slovakian Paradise): 30 minutes by car (36 km/22 miles)

Podlesok – Slovakian Paradise

You can get accommodation in the little village, Podlesok, in Slovakian Paradise.

I recommend you stay at the Autocamping Podlesok . They have chalets which you can book for a night. Alternatively, you can also go camping and sleep in a tent.

Tomorrow, we’ll do a beautiful walk through Slovakian Paradise , starting right here in Podlesok.

👉 READ ALSO: Slovakia And Slovenia: How To Tell The Difference

7. DAY: HIKING IN THE SLOVAKIAN PARADISE ⇒ DOBŠINSKÁ ICE CAVE

Today, we’ll experience the authentic atmosphere of the Slovakian Paradise. It has forest walks, gorges, waterfalls, and stunning views. We’ll do a small hike through the Suchá Belá Gorge.

Suchá Belá Gorge

The Suchá Belá Gorge is  4 kilometers (2.5 miles) long walk.

You will  start in Podlesok , where you can leave the car and walk through the  Gorge full of ladders and waterfalls . When you begin,  follow the green hiking signs .

Once you reach the  end of the trail , you’ll return to Podlesok, where you started. On the  way back , you will  follow the red and yellow hiking signs.

Enjoy the spectacular walk through the ladders , next to this gorge’s waterfalls and green forests.

The entire walk will take you between 3 hours 30 minutes up to 4 hours of walking time.

In the afternoon, let’s get back to the car and drive slightly further to another highlight of Slovakia.

Distance Podlesok ⇒ Salaš Zbojská: 1 hour & 20 minutes by car (75 km/46 miles)

Salaš Z bojská

Salaš Zbojská is another  beautiful Salaš  you can visit during your Slovakia Road Trip and a great place to get  delicious Slovakian food . It is a quiet, charming place where you will soak up the real Slovakian atmosphere. You can also sleep here tonight.

Write them an email and  book accommodation .

Alternatively, just call them and book a room or a chalet. I recommend booking a traditional wooden chalet for the night.

The email address: [email protected] Phone number: +421 910 418 788

Get further information about Salaš Zbojská on their wbesite. Unfortunately, the website is only in Slovak language , that’s why I suggest you wirte an email or call for additional information.

8. DAY: SALAŠ ZBOJSKÁ ⇒ BANSKÁ ŠTIAVNICA ⇒ BRATISLAVA

Our Slovakia road trip is coming to an end. But we still have one great stop before  driving back to Bratislava .

In the morning, enjoy the last moments in Salaš Zbojská with its beautiful nature.

For breakfast , you have to try the local Slovakian national sweet bread:  BUCHTA . Here in Salaš Zbojská, they  bake fresh traditional Buchta  with various flavors, and they are one of the best in Slovakia.

Once you are ready, let’s hit the road again. We’ll visit one of the most significant cities in Slovakia –  Banská Štiavnica .

Distance Salaš Zbojská ⇒ Banská Štiavnica: 1 hour & 40 minutes by car (108 km/67 miles)

Banská Štiavnica

Banská Štiavnica  is one of the most beautiful Slovakian cities, famous for the  mining industry . It’s also called  Silver Town , as silver was the primary raw material mined here.

In 1762,  Maria Teresa established a University  in this city with a center for  mining technology  and science. It was the first University of that kind in Europe.

Walk through its cute streets and get some lunch.

After that, I recommend you visit the mine called  Štôlňa Michal . It’s a very cool experience, and you’ll learn how they used to mine here.

In the afternoon, we’ll drive back to the capital of Slovakia , where we started our itinerary. Enjoy the most out of the beautiful nature around.

Distance Banská Štiavnica ⇒ Bratislava: 2 hour by car (174 km/108 miles)

This is the end of our road trip through Slovakia. Return your car to Bratislava and head to other destinations. You can make this Austria road trip itinerary , visit Budapest in Hungary, or follow my Czech Republic road trip .

Practical Tips For Visiting Slovakia

To help you plan your visit even more, I’ve got some tips for visiting Slovakia. See when the best time to visit is, what budget you’ll need for this itinerary, and whether the country is safe to visit.

How Many Days Are Enough For Slovakia?

8 days is the perfect amount to explore Slovakia. You’ll have time to immerse into the culture and traditions, go hiking in the High Tatras, and spend some time in beautiful thermal baths.

The minimum time to spend in Slovakia is 3 days . 10 days is enough to explore the highlights of the country.

👉 READ ALSO: How Many Days In Slovakia Should You Spend? Revealed!

Best Time To Visit Slovakia

The best times to visit Slovakia are May, June, September, and October. These months are less crowded , and locals are at school/work, so you’ll have the places for yourself.

The weather is usually great , and temperatures range between 18°C (64°F) and 23°C (73°F) these months.

If you want to go hiking in the High Tatras , visit the last 2 weeks of June until later September. Otherwise, the hiking trails will be closed.

Budget You’ll Need To Visit Slovakia

The budget for an 8-day Slovakian itinerary per person ( mid-range traveler ) is $760 . This is a very realistic budget for mid-range travelers who want to stay in nice hotels, rent a car to travel conveniently, and enjoy each location’s activities.

Here is a breakdown of this itinerary budget for each travel category:

So the total budget for a 8-day trip to Slovakia , without restricting yourself too much and enjoying everything the country offers, is $760 per person .

Budget Breakdown For Each Traveler Type

Here is a quick overview of a budget for every type of traveler:

➡ 8-day itinerary budget for backpackers and travelers on the budget: $420 ➡ 8-day itinerary budget for mid-range travelers : $760 ➡ 8-day itinerary budget for luxury travelers : up to $1100

NOTE: This is an approximate budget based on my calculations and spending following this 8-day trip in Slovakia. The budget will vary based on every traveler’s preferences .

Is Slovakia Safe?

Yes , Slovakia is a safe country to visit. It has been ranked #26 on the Global Peace Index , so it belongs to the safest countries in the world.

There is not much to be afraid of. If you want to feel extra safe, don’t walk outside at night alone to avoid scams.

In the High Tatras , there are bears that you should pay attention to. But I’m only telling you so that you know. The possibility of spotting a bear is not so high.

I’ve also answered some frequently asked questions about Slovakia, so check the answers below.

Is Slovakia A Cheap Country To Visit?

Yes , Slovakia is a relatively cheap country to visit. It belongs to one of the cheapest countries in Europe. As a budget traveler , you can plan to spend around $40 per day , and as a mid-range traveler , you’ll spend around $80 a day .

Is Slovakia A First World Country?

No. Slovakia is a second-world country . It used to be a puppet state of the Soviet Union and was influenced by the communist regime. The development of the economy and industries has been slower than in other Western countries.

Yet, the country has been thriving since 2000, when it joined the European Union, and the economy grew stronger after it also adopted the EURO.

Is It Easy To Travel Around Slovakia?

Yes , it’s easy to travel around Slovakia. You can take trains and buses, and the transportation is super affordable. The best way to get around is by car. It’ll give you flexibility and take you to places inaccessible by public transport.

How Many Days Do You Need To See Bratislava?

1 day is enough for Bratislava . You can easily explore the old town with the castle and walk alongside the Danube River within a day.

Spend 2 or 3 days if you want to make some day trips from Bratislava , such as visiting the Devin Castle, doing wine-tasting, or going hiking in the Lesser Fatra Mountains.

Wrap-Up: Slovakia Itinerary

This is my Slovakian itinerary for you. Put it on your travel bucket list , as it offers unique cultures, traditions, and places not many people have seen yet. I’m sure you’ll have a great trip. Take your time between the destinations, enjoy the scenery and everything this beautiful country offers.

If you have any questions, contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you or design a customized travel itinerary for your trip.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Slovakia Travel

Looking to visit more places in Slovakia? Check out my related articles:

What To See In Slovakia In 3 Days: Full Itinerary

20 Best Day Trips From Bratislava

6 Best Fairy-Tale Castles In Slovakia

How Many Days In Slovakia Should You Spend?

Slovakia And Slovenia: How To Tell The Difference

Best Hiking Trails In High Tatras Slovakia: With A Local

Hut-To-Hut Hiking High Tatras Slovakia: 5-Day Itinerary

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

SLOVAKIA : Interested in more articles for Slovakia? Check out my Slovakia Travel Page :

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This post has 14 comments.

We had two days in Bratislava and loved it. So we do plan to get back and visit more of Slovakia on a return trip. Your road trip itinerary sounds like a great start for our travel planning. I love the variety in the sights we will find.

That’s awesome that you’ve been to Slovakia. Bratislava is just a ‘must to see place’ once you are there, but definitely not the highlight. There are many more beautiful corners in the country worth visiting. I hope you can get inspiration for your next trip, Linda ;).

I did a petsit in Slovenia and everybody kept asking me, “You mean Slovakia?” And then I was in Vienna and SO close to Slovakia. But I ran out of time and didn’t get there. Now that I read your article and see your very cool photos, I regret missing Slovakia even more! Eastern Europe is filled with hidden gems! Thanks for an inspiring article!

I am glad the itinerary inspired you, Barbara. I highly recommend you to come back. As you said, Eastern Europe has these hidden gems barely anyone talks about. That is why I want to show you guys more of these countries so that people can explore their beauty. Let me know once you travel to Slovakia :).

Thank you for a grand tour of Slovakia, its Old Town and cathedral in Bratislava, the capital, and around the country to see the villages, caves, castle ruins, and the gorge trail for a taste of Slovakian culture.

You’re very welcome, Carol 😉 :).

What a great itinerary. You’ve given me lots of mrs ideas. We are heading to the Tatras hiking and climbing next year and fancy exploring more

I am glad, Nicole. That’s amazing that you are going to High Tatras. If you love hiking, then I also recommend to go up to the Rysy Hut, Teryho Hut, or Zelene Pleso Hut. These are wonderful hikes, but more for advanced hikers :).

Really good guide! People just usually visit Bratislava for a day but clearly from this guide there is a lot more to the country!

Thanks Rob. Yes, there is a lot more and I want people to know about it. Bratislava only, doesn’t reflect Slovakia in a real picture :).

Thanks for this great itinerary! This roadtrip looks perfect! I think my highlight would be the cave of freedom.

Yes, these are the top things – Cave of Freedom and also High Tatras :).

Slovakia is a country I really do not know enough about. Apart from Bratislava, I have not heard of any of the other cities that you mention! When I make it to Slovakia, I would definitely want to do a road trip. The chalets in Liptovský Ján look so awesome, and are not expensive either. High Tatras will definitely be on my list too, thanks for the inspiration!

Thanks Medha, I am glad the itinerary inspired you. High Tatras is an amazing place, I am sure you will love it :). Let me know once you are there.

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Home > One Week In Slovakia Itinerary

One Week In Slovakia Itinerary

Written by our local expert Guru

Written by a local specialist we know and trust to bring you the most up-to-date travel information.

Here is your one-week in Slovakia itinerary. Castles, mountains, and where to stay are all covered in this Slovakia guide written by Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad.

Slovakia wouldn’t come to mind for most people when thinking of the perfect place to vacation, but it’s definitely one of the most underrated dream destinations on Earth.

This country has so much to offer, whether it’s a quiet nature getaway or a historical journey back to Medieval times. Better yet, it has something for every kind of traveler , whether you’re into history, nature, culture, or adventure.

This one-week itinerary takes you to some of the most remarkable places to visit in Slovakia , from the magical fairytale castles to the majestic mountain ranges.

You’ll discover tons of hidden gems in this country that you might have never heard of before, and let’s be real — Slovakia definitely deserves more of your time than just a day trip to Bratislava! So, without further ado, here’s how to spend one swell week in Slovakia.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Day 1: Bratislava

Spend your first day exploring the capital of Slovakia, home to a charming Old Town and a historic castle on a hill. Start by wandering the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where you can learn a lot about the history of Bratislava.

The Old Town is relatively small, and you can quickly go from one end to the other in just 10 minutes. However, there are tons of shops and cafes there, so you can take it slow, relax, and enjoy your time in this historic neighborhood.

The medieval Michael’s Gate is one of the main things to see in the Old Town. It houses a museum of the armory, and you can also climb up its tower to get a nice view of the area. Afterward, stop by St. Martin’s Cathedral, the largest church in the city, and the Old Town Hall, one of the oldest buildings in Bratislava. You can get another fantastic bird’ s-eye view of the Old Town from the top of the Town Hall Tower.

Don’t leave Bratislava without stopping by the unique Blue Church, the UFO Observation Deck, and its two main castles: Devin Castle and Bratislava Castle. You can even take a free Bratislava walking tour that takes you to all the most remarkable spots in town in 2.5 hours.

Be sure to stop by Zeleny Rodrigéz for some delicious local food, and stay at one of the many hotels and guesthouses in the Old Town.

Here is where to stay in Bratislava.

Brands we use and trust, day 2: bojnice castle + čičmany.

After exploring the capital of Slovakia, rent a car and drive east to Bojnice Castle, rated by many as the most beautiful castle in the whole of Central & Eastern Europe. It’ll take about 2 hours to reach the castle from Bratislava, and it should take around 2-3 hours to explore it all.

Bojnice Castle was built in the 12th century and has tons of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance influence in its architecture. It costs 13 euro to enter and tour the castle, and you can see some pretty cool interior decor there.

Even more impressive is the large garden surrounding the castle. Walking around, you’ll get an incredible view of the castle, which you can enjoy from various angles and perspectives. The garden is also a great place to have a picnic.

Once you’re done exploring Bojnice Castle, drive 45 minutes north to the tiny village of Čičmany. This unique village is remarkably well-preserved and is characterized by its many black timber houses with white geometrical patterns painted on them. It’s a great place to learn about traditional Slovak folk art and what village life was like back in the days.

You can do a guided tour of the village once you get there, and then have some traditional local cuisine at the village restaurant. Stay the night at Kaštieľ Čičmany, a very friendly and cozy family-run hotel.

Day 3: Vlkolínec + Orava Castle

On your third day in Slovakia, visit the beautiful Orava Castle with a stop in the village of Vlkolínec. From Čičmany, it takes around 2 hours to reach Vlkolínec by car. This UNESCO village is characterized by its 45 traditional log houses that give you the feeling of being inside an open-air museum.

You can learn a lot about the culture, history, and folklore traditions in Slovakia by wandering this little village. There’s also a museum as well as vendor shops selling hand-made souvenirs .

After you’re done exploring Vlkolínec, head over to the stunning Orava Castle, which is just 45 minutes by car from the village, Orava Castle is an incredibly picturesque monument that’s really well-preserved and very engaging to visit. It costs 7 euro to enter its premises, and after a bit of climb up the hill, you’ll reach one of its central courtyards, where there are usually live performances that depict scenes from the Middle Ages.

Be sure to climb up to the Upper Castle, where you can get a spectacular view of the castle grounds from above, as well as the stunning green rolling hills and Orava River that surrounds it.

Once you’re done exploring Orava Castle, it’s time to drive east to one of the national treasures of Slovakia: the Tatras mountains. It takes about 1.5 hours to get there by car from Orava. Spend the night at a guesthouse or hotel in the Tatras region. The Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras is an excellent option if you want to treat yourself to a luxurious stay.

Day 4 – 5: The Tatras Mountains

If you ask most Slovaks what they’re most proud of about their country, their answer would probably be the Tatras Mountains. And when you’re there, it’s not hard at all to see why. These mountain ranges are incredibly breathtaking and offer amazingly picturesque hiking trails that totally deserve at least two whole days of your itinerary .

The Tatras are divided into two parts: the High Tatras and the Low Tatras. Both of them are worth exploring. The High Tatras is famous for its dramatic landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and majestic waterfalls, while the Low Tatras also offers plenty of hiking trails and walks around beautiful lakes .

Some of the best hiking trails in the Tatras are Rysy, Koprovsky, Velka Svistovka, and Belianske Tatras. You can find trails here suitable for all kinds of hikers, from beginners to the very experienced. If you don’t enjoy trekking for long periods, you can also take short walks around the beautiful Tatras lakes , such as Štrbské Pleso and Popradské Pleso.

There are also plenty of spa hotels in the Tatras, so you can treat yourself to a nice massage after a long day of walking. If you’re visiting in the winter , Tatranská Lomnica is the highest ski resort in Slovakia and offers incredible winter wonderland views.

Day 6: Spiš Castle + Bardejov

After you’re done exploring the Tatras, continue driving east to Spiš Castle, which is 1 hour away by car. This castle is very different from both Bojnice and Orava Castle in that it is mostly in ruins — which is precisely what makes it exciting and picturesque.

The ruins of this 12th-century castle sit on top of a hill, and getting there involves a very relaxing uphill stroll. Once you’re inside, your 8 euro ticket will get you a free English audio guide, so you can learn about the history of the castle as you wander around. Be sure to climb up the castle tower to get a nice view of the castle’s surroundings!

Spiš Castle is just about 1.5 hours southwest of Bardejov, one of the most stunning medieval towns in Slovakia. After you’re done visiting the castle, make your way there and spend the rest of your day exploring the colorful squares and streets of this UNESCO town.

The main attraction to see in Bardejov is Market Square, which is surrounded by pastel-colored houses. Be sure to climb up the tower of Basilica of St. Egidius in the middle of the square to get a nice view of the square from above. You can also stop by Šariš Museum inside the square to check out some Carpathian icon galleries.

After a couple of hours in Bardejov, drive south to Košice and spend the night there. The drive should take around one hour.

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Day 7: Košice

The final stop of this week-long itinerary in Slovakia is Košice, the second-largest city in Slovakia and the beating heart of Eastern Slovakia. The great thing about Košice is that the prices there are cheaper than in Bratislava, and it’s also the best place in Slovakia for foodies or anyone interested in Slovak cuisine.

In fact, there are tons of excellent restaurants in town where you can taste the best Slovak dishes, such as bryndzové halušky. There are also plenty of fabulous international and fusion restaurants too. Some of the best places to eat in town are Med Malina and Camelot.

During your day in Košice, don’t miss out on wandering the stunning Old Town, home to an incredible amount of historical buildings, towers, and sculptures. Stop by St. Elisabeth’s Cathedral and climb up its tower to get a nice bird’s-eye view of the whole city. Crafts Lane is another great spot to visit as you can pick up lots of cool hand-made souvenirs there to bring home .

Final Thoughts

Now you have a week-long itinerary for Slovakia, which includes a mix of historical, adventurous, and cultural experiences. One thing is for sure — Slovakia is definitely an incredibly underrated country, and it’s something you’ll probably only fully understand once you explore beyond its capital city.

Hi there, loved your suggestion in Slovakia. We are heading from Australia via the Dolomites in December. Can’t wait but we have a lot to do. Do your suggestions change at all in the winter? We are wanting try things but at the same time enjoy thermal baths and relax as well. We are novice skiers. Thanks again for your info, very helpful.

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The Man in Seat 61

How to travel by train from

London to bratislava.

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Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, from the uk to slovakia by train.

It's easy to reach Bratislava by train from the UK.  Take a mid-afternoon Eurostar to Brussels or Paris, the excellent Nightjet sleeper overnight to Vienna and the hourly regional express to Bratislava.  Change in Bratislava for an express to Poprad Tatry or Košice.  This page explains how to book train travel to Slovakia.

Useful country information

Option 1, london to bratislava using the brussels-vienna sleeper.

This is the easiest, most comfortable & most time-effective way from the UK to Bratislava.  Take Eurostar to Brussels, the excellent 3-times-a-week Nightjet sleeper from Brussels to Vienna, then the hourly regional express to Bratislava.  The sleeper is expected to become daily from autumn 2024.  Incidentally, option 2 is almost identical in all respects, but via Paris rather than Brussels, so check that out too.

London ► Bratislava

Day 1, travel from London to Brussels by Eurostar , leaving London St Pancras at 13:01, arriving Brussels Midi at 16:06.

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet sleeper train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There are toilets & a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers.  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  The train has couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment.  See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

The train travels along the Rhine Valley between Koblenz (23:46) and Mainz (00:39), so if you're still awake and your compartment happens to be on the left-hand side of the train, switch off the lights and watch the Rhine pass by, mountains, vineyards, castles & the legendary Lorelei Rock lit by moonlight.  Wonderful!

Bratislava ► London

Important:  If travelling between 4 March & 14 December 2024, see the update here .

Tip:   If you have a ticket for a sleeper, you can use the ÖBB lounge at Vienna Hbf with complimentary refreshments & free WiFi.

How much does it cost?

On the sleeper train, berths are sold individually, so one ticket means one bed, the other beds in your compartment will be sold to other passengers.  For sole occupancy, simply book 1 ticket in a 1-berth sleeper, 2 tickets in a 2-berth sleeper, 4 tickets in a 4-berth couchette & so on.

How to buy tickets

If you buy your tickets at www.thetrainline.com you can buy all your tickets together in one place, in plain English, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee.  Anyone from any country can use www.thetrainline.com .  Who are Thetrainline.com?

Do a dry run first to check prices and availability for each stage before booking for real.

Step 1, go to www.thetrainline.com and book from London to Brussels (and back, if returning) using the train times on this page as a guide.  Add this to your basket.  Never allow less than an hour in Brussels when connecting with a sleeper train.

Step 2, now book the Nightjet sleeper train from Brussels to Vienna & back at www.thetrainline.com , looking for the direct train with 0 changes.

Booking for this Nightjet typically opens 3-4 months ahead, but it can vary.  More about when bookings open .  Child under 6?  See here .

Add to basket and check out. 

Step 3, now book from Vienna to Bratislava and back at www.thetrainline.com , add to basket & check out.  If you prefer, you can just buy the Vienna-Bratislava ticket at the station in Vienna, it's just a regional train, fixed price, no reservation needed, tickets always available.

Fares are dynamic like air fares, so book early for the cheapest prices and avoid busy days such as Fridays or Sunday afternoons.

Another way to buy tickets

How to buy tickets by phone, or use an interrail pass.

Pass or point to point?

Let's be clear, a pass will not save money over the cheapest point-to-point advance-purchase fares you might see if you book a few months ahead.  But when point-to-point fares are expensive (for example, at short notice) OR you want flexibility, for example the ability to change your mind, re-route or reschedule as necessary, a pass might be what you need.

If flexibility is what you want, buy the pass.  If it's about saving money, you'll have to check point-to-point prices and do the maths.

It's worth doing the maths if you are under 28, if you have kids (kids get a free pass when accompanying an adult but still need to pay reservation fees) or if you live a long way from London (as a pass covers you from your home station to London).  Passes are available in 1st & 2nd class, a 2nd class pass is all you need to book any type of sleeper on the Nightjet, even a deluxe.

How to use a pass for a trip to Slovakia

Step 1, buy a 4-days in 1-month Interrail pass from www.raileurope.com (click Rail passes and select Europe ) or www.interrail.eu for €283 adult, €212 youth or €255 senior.  You load the pass into the Railplanner app on your phone.  See pass prices on the Interrail page .

A 4-day pass is enough to get from most regions of Britain to anywhere in Slovakia & back again.

A 4-day pass gives you unlimited train travel on any 4 dates you choose in an overall 1 month period.  The first travel day can be any date you select in the 11 months after buying the pass, the overall 1 month period starts from that date.  Learn about how Interrail passes work here .

Step 2, make a Eurostar passholder reservation from London to Brussels & back, €30 each way.  See prices & how to make Eurostar passholder reservations online .  Tip:  Eurostar passholder availability is limited, so check availability before buying a pass .

Step 3, make a couchette or sleeper reservation on the Nightjet sleeper at www.oebb.at following the instructions here, method 1 .  Prices can be found on the Interrail reservations page .

By all means go out one way, back another, with an Interrail pass you can use almost any of the trains & routes to/from Slovakia shown on this page, find out how to reserve the relevant trains using the Interrail reservations guide .

Let Railbookers arrange it for you

Railbookers are a train travel specialist who can put together a tour or holiday for you as a package, including rail travel, hotels & transfers.  On their website you'll find a range of suggested tours & holidays which can be varied or customised to your requirements.  As you're booking a package, they'll take care of you if anything happens to one part of the itinerary such as a strike or delay.

Escorted tours :  If you'd like to travel with a convivial group of travellers escorted by a professional tour guide, the operators to check are Great Rail Journeys ( www.greatrail.com , in the UK call 01904 527 120) and Rail Discoveries , www.raildiscoveries.com , 01904 730 727.  Both have various escorted tours from the UK to Bratislava by train, with departures on a variety of dates.

What's the journey like?

1. London to Brussels by Eurostar

Eurostar trains link London & Brussels in just 2 hours, travelling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph).  There are two bar cars, power sockets at all seats and free WiFi.  Standard Premier and Business Premier fares include a light meal with wine (or breakfast, on departures before 11:00).  There's a 30-minute minimum check-in as all border formalities are carried out before you board the train.  More about Eurostar including check-in procedure .  St Pancras station guide .   Brussels Midi station guide .  In Brussels, I recommend using the Pullman Hotel bar as your VIP waiting room .

2. Brussels to Vienna by Nightjet sleeper

3. Vienna to Bratislava by Regional Express train

The hourly regional express train from Vienna Hbf to Bratislava Hlavna , seen below about to leave Vienna.  Behind the locomotive is a smart Slovakian air-conditioned intercity coach, whilst the rest of the train consists of more basic non-air-con Austrian City Shuttle carriages, with interiors as shown in the photo above right.  Find a seat in the more comfortable Slovakian car if you can! More about Vienna-Bratislava regional express trains .

Back to top

Option 2: London to Bratislava using the Paris-Vienna sleeper

Almost identical to option 1, but via Paris instead of Brussels.  Option 1 involves an easy same-station change in Brussels from Eurostar to Nightjet, this involves an easy 7 minute walk from the Gare du Nord to the Gare de l'Est , that's the only real difference.  The Paris-Vienna & Brussels-Vienna Nightjets run on the same 3 days of the week (both due to become daily from autumn 2024), in fact they run coupled together as a single train between Mannheim and Vienna.

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet train has two air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-cars each with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There's a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers.  The train has a couchette car with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and an ordinary seats car.  See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

There's no restaurant car, but in sleepers or couchettes you can order drinks, snacks and hot dishes from a room service menu, served in your compartment.  The sleeper & couchette fares include a light breakfast with tea or coffee, served in your compartment.

There's no restaurant car, but in sleepers or couchettes you can order drinks, snacks and hot dishes from a room service menu, served in your compartment.  The sleeper & couchette fares include a light breakfast with tea or coffee.

Fares vary like air fares, book early for the cheapest prices.

On the sleeper train, berths are sold individually, so one ticket means one bed, the other beds in your compartment will be sold to other passengers.  For sole occupancy, simply book 1 ticket in a 1-berth sleeper or 2 tickets in a 2-berth sleeper or 4 tickets in a 4-berth couchette and so on.

Return fares are twice the one-way fare.

Tip:   After booking you can use the Manage booking facility at www.eurostar.com to choose an exact seat from a seating plan, see tips on choosing a seat on Eurostar .

How to use a pass for a trip to Hungary

Step 2, make a Eurostar passholder reservation from London to Paris & back, €30 each way.  See prices & how to make Eurostar passholder reservations online .  Tip:  Eurostar passholder availability is limited, so check availability before buying a pass .

1. London to Paris by Eurostar

Eurostar trains link London & Paris in just 2 hours 20 minutes, travelling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph).  There are two bar cars, power sockets at all seats and free WiFi.  Standard Premier and Business Premier fares include a light meal with wine (or breakfast, on departures before 11:00).  There's a 30-minute minimum check-in as all border formalities are carried out before you board the train.  More about Eurostar including check-in procedure .  St Pancras station guide .  Gare du Nord station guide .

2. Paris to Vienna by Nightjet sleeper

The hourly regional express train from Vienna Hbf to Bratislava Hlavna , seen below about to leave Vienna.  Behind the locomotive is a smart Slovakian air-conditioned intercity coach, whilst the rest of the train consists of more basic non-air-con Austrian City Shuttle carriages, with interiors as shown in the photo above right.  Find a seat in the more comfortable Slovakian car if you can!   More about Vienna-Bratislava regional express trains .

Option 3 , London to Bratislava by daytime trains

If you prefer daytime trains and a hotel to sleepers, this is the option for you.  London to Bratislava is too far to go in a day, so an overnight stop is needed either in Brussels or Frankfurt.  Those are the obvious choices on the direct route with fewest changes.

London ► Bratislava with overnight stop in Brussels

You travel from Brussels to Frankfurt on a superb German ICE3 high-speed train , Frankfurt to Vienna by equally comfortable ICE-T and Vienna to Bratislava by regional express .  Both ICE trains have a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  You can check times for your date of travel using the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

London ► Bratislava with overnight stop in Frankfurt

Day 1, travel from London to Frankfurt by Eurostar & ICE , see the London to Frankfurt timetable here .

You can travel from London to Frankfurt with 1 easy same-station change at Brussels Midi , or you can travel via Paris with an easy 7-minute walk between the Gare du Nord and nearby Gare de l'Est .

For example, you can leave London St Pancras by Eurostar at 15:04, change at Brussels Midi onto a superb ICE3 with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, arriving Frankfurt (Main) Hbf at 21:31.

But by all means take the earlier 13:01 for more of an evening in Frankfurt, see the London to Frankfurt timetable here .

Day 2, travel from Frankfurt to Bratislava, leaving Frankfurt (Main) Hbf at 08:21, change at Vienna Hbf , arriving Bratislava Hlavna at 16:26.

You travel from Frankfurt to Vienna by ICE-T with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, then Vienna to Bratislava by regional express .  You can check times for your date of travel using the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Bratislava ► London with overnight stop in Brussels

Bratislava ► london with overnight stop in frankfurt.

Day 1, travel from Bratislava to Frankfurt, leaving Bratislava Hlavna at 15:35, change at Vienna Hbf , arriving Frankfurt (Main) Hbf 21:36.

You travel from Bratislava to Vienna by regional express then Vienna to Frankfurt by superb high-speed ICE-T with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  You can check times at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Day 2, travel from Frankfurt to London.  You can travel from Frankfurt to London with 1 easy same-station change at Brussels Midi , or you can travel via Paris with an easy 7-minute walk between the Gare du Nord and nearby Gare de l'Est .

For example, you can leave Frankfurt (Main) Hbf at 08:16, change at Brussels Midi and arrive London St Pancras at 13:57.

By all means have a leisurely breakfast and take a later train, see the Frankfurt to London timetable here .  The ICE has a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

London to Brussels by Eurostar starts at £52 one-way or £78 return in standard class, £97 one-way, £140 return standard premier (1st class).

When does booking open?

Booking for Eurostar opens up to 6 months ahead, sometimes up to 11 months.

Onward trains from Brussels open for booking up to 6 months ahead, but significantly less than this when the mid-December timetable change intervenes.  I recommend waiting until all trains are open for booking before committing to a non-refundable Eurostar ticket.  More about when booking opens .

If you're overnighting in Brussels:

Step 1, book the Eurostar from London to Brussels & back at www.eurostar.com .

If you're returning, make sure you book this as a round trip as Eurostar return fares are significantly cheaper than two one-ways.  Beyond Brussels fares are all priced as one-way so it makes no difference.  You print your ticket or can load it into the Eurostar app on your phone.

Step 2, book from Brussels to Bratislava using the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

If you're overnighting in Frankfurt:

Buy tickets at www.raileurope.com .  This way, you can book all your tickets together in one place.

Anyone from any country can use www.raileurope.com , in plain English, overseas credit cards accepted and fares shown in multiple currencies. There's a small booking fee.  Who are Raileurope.com?

First book your ticket from London to Frankfurt.  If you're returning, book London to Frankfurt as a round trip because Eurostar return fares are significantly cheaper than two one-ways.  Add this to your basket.

Then book from Frankfurt to Bratislava one-way for the following day, add to basket, and (if returning) book from Bratislava to Frankfurt one way for the day prior to your Frankfurt-London journey, add this to your basket and check out.

You print your own tickets, or after booking you can load the Eurostar ticket into the Eurostar app and show the DB ticket on your phone.

If you're overnighting in different cities out and back, book like this:

First use www.raileurope.com to run some dummy enquiries to find the combination of trains you want.  Then book London to Brussels & back and add to basket, to benefit from Eurostar's cheaper return fares.  Then book one-way tickets from Brussels to Frankfurt, Frankfurt to Bratislava, Bratislava to Brussels (or whatever) on the trains you want, adding each ticket to your basket, then check out.

Booking tips

Is it a through ticket?

No, as there are no through tickets from London to anywhere beyond Paris or Brussels any more, DB's Sparpreis London fares were discontinued in March 2020 .  But www.raileurope.com will seamlessly sell you a Eurostar ticket from London to Brussels plus an onward German Railways ticket from Brussels to Frankfurt, then it'll sell you a separate German Railways ticket from Frankfurt to Bratislava for the following day.

Seat reservations

About the 20-minute connections (sometimes less) between Eurostar & ICEs at Brussels Midi

The slick 20-minute connection in Brussels between Eurostar and an onward ICE, sometimes less than this, is usually a recognised connection which lots of people make.  It's not usually a problem, especially if you use the Brussels Midi short cut between platforms .

Even though the system sells you separate tickets either side of Brussels, you are protected by the Railteam Promise/HOTNAT so if there's a delay and you miss the connection you will be allowed to travel on later onwards trains at no extra charge.

How to buy a connecting ticket from other UK towns & cities:   See the advice on special add-on tickets here .

A cheaper way to buy tickets

If you're overnighting in Brussels one way or round trip, ignore this section as I've already told you to use eurostar.com then int.bahn.de.  But if you're overnighting in Cologne or Berlin, or in different cities outward and return, read on.

This is more work as it means using two websites, but there are 3 advantages:  First, you don't pay any booking fee.  Second, you can use the Stopover feature at int.bahn.de to book a Brussels to Bratislava through ticket with an overnight stop in Frankfurt which is cheaper than buying two separate tickets.  And third, int.bahn.de lets you select your seat from a seat map on ICE trains .  This is the way I'd book myself.

Before booking for real, do a dry run on both sites to check availability & prices and to find a combination of trains that works for you.  I'd also check that your outward Eurostar and ICE are a recognised connection by checking that they appear together when you run a London to Cologne enquiry at int.bahn.de - read the paragraph about the 20-minute connection in Brussels in the previous section.

Step 1, go to www.eurostar.com and book your Eurostar from London to Brussels (and back, if returning).  You print your own ticket or can load it into the Eurostar app on your phone.  Eurostar return fares are significantly less than two one-ways, so if you're coming back, make sure you book this as a round trip.  After booking you can use the Eurostar Manage Booking system to select an exact seat on Eurostar .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Bratislava at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Fares are all priced as one-way, so if you're returning you'll find it easier to book one way at a time, in fact you'll need to book one way at a time if you're overnighting in different cities on the way out and the way back.

To get an overnight stop in Frankfurt, click Stopovers and  enter Frankfurt (Main) Hbf with a suitable length of stay for an overnight stop, say 10 hours.  Adjust the departure time & length of stay to get the trains you want either side of Frankfurt.  This will get you a Brussels to Bratislava through ticket with an overnight stop in Frankfurt included.

You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone.  I recommend registering when prompted so you can log in and check your bookings or re-print tickets at any time.

Eurostar trains link London & Brussels in just 2 hours, travelling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph).  There are two bar cars, power sockets at all seats and free WiFi.  Standard Premier and Business Premier fares include a light meal with wine (or breakfast, on departures before 11:00).  There's a 30-minute minimum check-in as all border formalities are carried out before you board the train.  More about Eurostar & check-in procedure .  St Pancras station guide .  Brussels Midi station guide & short cut for changing trains in Brussels .

2. Brussels to Frankfurt by ICE3

Germany's superb ICEs have a bistro-restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat.  50 minutes after leaving Brussels the ICE calls at Liège, where you can admire the impressive station designed by celebrity architect Santiago Calatrava.  As you approach Cologne Hbf you'll see the twin towers of Cologne Cathedral on the right, next to the station.  Immediately after leaving Cologne Hbf , the train crosses the long Hohenzollern bridge over the Rhine before joining the 300km/h high-speed line to Frankfurt.  More about ICE3 trains .  Brussels Midi station guide .  Cologne Hbf station guide .

2. Frankfurt to Vienna by ICE-T

The ICE-T has a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat.  Between Frankfurt and Vienna you'll pass rolling countryside and run along the Danube in several places.  More about ICE-T trains .  Brussels Midi station guide .  Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station guide .  Vienna Hbf station guide .

4. Vienna to Bratislava by Regional Express train

Option 4 , London to Bratislava by ferry from Harwich

The ferry alternative!  This is a great option if you live in East Anglia, if you prefer a ferry to the Channel Tunnel, or if problems are affecting Eurostar.  Indeed, if you need to travel at short notice when there are no cheap Eurostar tickets, the rail & sail option is often still affordable.  I don't recommend the Dover-Calais route because of poor train/ferry connections, the Stena Line rail & sail service via Harwich & Hoek van Holland is the one to use as it has co-ordinated timetables and integrated ticketing, see the Stena Line Rail & Sail page & watch the video .

London, Cambridge & Harwich ► Bratislava

You leave London Liverpool Street at 18:45 Mondays-Fridays, 19:36 Saturdays or 20:00 Sundays by direct train to Harwich International.

You leave Cambridge at 19:47 Mondays-Saturdays or 19:45 on Sundays by direct train to Harwich International.

On arrival at Hoek van Holland, take the frequent metro train from Hoek van Holland Haven to Schiedam Centrum and an Intercity train from Schiedam Centrum to Amsterdam Centraal arriving 10:25.  See the Stena Line Rail & Sail page for full details .

Day 3, travel from Vienna to Bratislava by regional express train , leaving Vienna Hbf at 10:17 and arriving Bratislava Hlavna at 11:26.

These trains run every hour, no reservation is necessary or possible on these trains, just turn up, buy a ticket and hop on.  There are always plenty of seats and they cannot sell out.  Important:  If travelling between 4 March & 14 December 2024, see the update here .

Bratislava ► Harwich, Cambridge & London

Day 1, travel from Vienna to Amsterdam by Nightjet sleeper train , leaving Vienna Hbf at 20:10 & arriving Amsterdam Centraal at 09:59.

Spend most of day 2 in Amsterdam.

Day 2, travel from Amsterdam to London overnight by Stena Line Rail & Sail .

You take the 18:35 Dutch intercity train from Amsterdam Centraal to Schiedam Centrum and change onto the frequent metro to Hoek van Holland Haven.  The metro station is right next to the ferry terminal.

Check in at the Stena Line desk at least 45 minutes before sailing time, then walk up the gangway onto the luxurious Stena Line superferry Stena Britannica and sail overnight to Harwich in a snug private cabin with shower, toilet & satellite TV.  There's free WiFi in the public areas on 9 deck.

The ferry sails from Hoek van Holland at 22:00 and arrives at Harwich International at 06:30 next morning, UK time.  Day 3, Take a train from Harwich to London Liverpool Street arriving around 08:56, or from Harwich to Cambridge arriving 09:41 (10:39 on Sundays).  See the Stena Line Rail & Sail page for full details, photos & travel tips .

Step 1, buy a Stena Line Rail & Sail ticket from London to Hoek van Holland online as shown on the Stena Line Rail & Sail page .

Step 3, now book from Vienna to Bratislava and back at www.thetrainline.com or www.oebb.at , or just buy a Vienna-Bratislava ticket at the station in Vienna, it's just a regional train, fixed price, no reservation needed, tickets always available.

Step 1, London to Amsterdam by train & ferry

A train takes you from London's Liverpool Street station directly to the ferry terminal at Harwich.  You walk off the train, into the terminal, get your boarding card & cabin key at the Stena Line check-in desk and walk straight onto the overnight ferry to Hoek van Holland.  The superferry Stena Britannica is the largest ferry of its kind in the world.  All passengers travel in private cabins with shower, toilet & satellite TV.  The journey from London to Amsterdam is explained in detail on the Stena Line Rail & Sail page .  See the video .

The Stena Britannica at boarding at Harwich, a floating hotel with private cabins, restaurant, bar, lounges, shop & kennels.

Above left, a standard outside cabin.  Larger photo .   360º photo .  Above right, the Stena Plus lounge with complimentary red & white wine, tea, coffee & snacks.

Above left, the bar on 9 deck. Above right, a Captain's Class cabin with complimentary minibar, toilet & shower.

2. Amsterdam to Vienna by Nightjet   See the Nightjet guide

The hourly regional express train from Vienna to Bratislava Hlavna, seen below about to leave from Vienna Hauptbahnhof .  Behind the locomotive is a smart Slovakian air-conditioned intercity coach, whilst the rest of the train consists of more basic non-air-con Austrian City Shuttle carriages, with interiors as shown in the photo above right.  Find a seat in the more comfortable Slovakian car if you can! More photos, tips & information about Vienna-Bratislava trains .

Option 5, Scotland & North to Bratislava    

If you live in the North of England or Scotland, you can of course take a train up to London and travel to Slovakia as described above.  You can buy special connecting train tickets from most UK stations to London International, see advice on buying connecting train tickets to London .  But DFDS Seaways ( www.dfds.com ) run an excellent daily cruise ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam overnight, and P&O Ferries ( www.poferries.com ) sail overnight from Hull to Rotterdam.  So why not by-pass London, with lunch in Amsterdam into the bargain?

Scotland & the North ► Bratislava

Day 1, take a train to either Hull or Newcastle, whichever is most convenient for where you live.

In Hull, transfer to P&O ferry terminal and sail overnight from Hull to Rotterdam by P&O cruise ferry, with bus/train connection to Amsterdam Centraal.  The ferry has bars, restaurants & cosy en suite cabins.  For details of schedule, fares & tickets, see the Hull-Rotterdam page .

In Newcastle, transfer to the DFDS ferry terminal at North Shields and sail overnight from Newcastle to Amsterdam by DFDS Seaways cruise ferry.  The ferry has bars, restaurants & cosy en suite cabins.  For details of schedule, fares & tickets see the Newcastle-Amsterdam page .

Day 2, spend the rest of the day in Amsterdam, all the sights are an easy walk from Amsterdam Centraal .  Left luggage lockers are available.

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There's a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers.  The train has couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats cars.  See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

Bratislava ► Scotland & the North

You've now the best part of the day to explore Amsterdam, left luggage lockers are available .

In the afternoon, if you're heading for Hull take a frequent Dutch train to Rotterdam Centraal and the P&O transfer bus from Rotterdam Centraal to Rotterdam Europoort ferry terminal.  If you're heading for Newcastle, a DFDS transfer bus runs from Amsterdam Centraal to IJmuiden ferry terminal.

Day 2, sail from Holland to Hull or Newcastle by overnight cruise ferry, whichever is most convenient for where you live, arriving next morning (day 3).  Transfer to the station and take a train home.

For details of timetables, fares & how to buy tickets from Amsterdam to the UK via these ferry routes, see the Hull-Rotterdam page or the Newcastle-Amsterdam page .

To check train fares to Hull or Newcastle, see any train operator website such as www.lner.co.uk .

To check ferry fares, go to www.dfds.com (Newcastle-Amsterdam), www.poferries.com (Hull-Rotterdam).  There's more info on the Hull-Rotterdam page & Newcastle-Amsterdam page .

Step 1, book your ferry at www.dfds.com (Newcastle-Amsterdam) or www.poferries.com (Hull-Rotterdam).  There's more info on the Hull-Rotterdam page & Newcastle-Amsterdam page .

Step 1, take the overnight cruise ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam with DFDS or Hull to Rotterdam with P&O, with private en suite cabins, restaurants, bars, cinema.  If travelling with DFDS from Newcastle, a transfer bus takes you from IJmuiden ferry terminal to Amsterdam Centraal station next morning.  If travelling with P&O from Hull, a transfer bus takes you from Rotterdam Europoort ferry terminal to Rotterdam Centraal , from where frequent Dutch trains run to Utrecht.

Step 2, take the daily Nightjet sleeper train from Amsterdam to Linz, Vienna or Innsbruck.

3. Travel from Vienna to Bratislava by Regional Express train

Vienna to Bratislava by fast ferry

As well as the hourly Vienna-Bratislava train service, you can travel between Vienna and Bratislava by fast Twin City Liner river boat, city centre to city centre along the scenic Danube.

Traveller Andrew Clayton reports:   "We chose the Danube fast ferry option rather than the train and paid €30 each one-way for unreserved seats on a weekday midday Vienna-Bratislava sailing with TwinCity Liner.  We bought the tickets in person the day before travelling at the booking office at the quayside at Schwedenplatz.  It's a leisurely 10 minute walk with wheelie bag from Stephansplatz.  Only the front five rows in the main cabin can be reserved.  Seats upstairs outside are only bookable on the day and if the weather is fine.  It's worth remembering that the boat travels at up to 70km/h so it can get a bit breezy on the upper deck!  There is generous space to stow luggage at the rear of the main cabin on the starboard side.  On the first part of the trip on the Danube canal, you must remain seated. Once on the Danube itself, you can walk about freely, either to the bar or to the stern deck and upper stern deck.  On our trip, almost all seats were taken at the start but for most of the voyage, the main cabin was nearly empty. The scenery along the way is pleasant rather than spectacular.  At Bratislava, the boat docks about five minutes walk from the southern edge of the old town; nearer to many of the amenities than the railway station which is some way to the north."

G uidebooks

Click the images to buy at Amazon

European rail timetable & maps.

Rail Map Europe is the map I recommend, covering all of Europe from Portugal in the west to Moscow & Istanbul in the east, Finland in the north to Sicily & Athens in the south.  Scenic routes & high-speed lines are highlighted.  See an extract from the map .  Buy online at www.europeanrailtimetable.eu (shipping worldwide) or at www.amazon.co.uk (UK addresses).

Hotels in Bratislava

Backpacker hostels.

www.hostelworld.com :  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in most cities at rock-bottom prices.

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

You should take out travel insurance with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover from a reliable insurer.  It should cover trip cancellation and loss of cash & belongings up to a reasonable limit.  These days, check you're covered for covid-19-related issues, and use an insurer whose cover isn't invalidated by well-meant but excessive Foreign Office travel advice against non-essential travel. An annual policy is usually cheapest even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Don't expect travel insurance to bail you out of every missed connection, see the advice on missed connections here .  Here are some suggested insurers, I get a little commission if you buy through these links, feedback always welcome.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a European mobile data package and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list .  There's no need to buy a physical SIM card!  Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month as I write this.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.  And you can get a Curve card for free.

How it works:   1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android .  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than getting a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  Why you need a VPN

When travelling you may use free public WiFi which is often insecure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explained .  ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using this link you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I also get some commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, hotel bookings and Interrail or Eurail passes are often now held on your mobile phone.  You daren't let it run out of power, and you can't always rely on the phone's internal battery or on being near a power outlet.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or Buy from Amazon.com .

Touring cities?  Use hill walking shoes!

One of the best things I've done is swap my normal shoes for hill-walking shoes, in my case from Scarpa.  They're intended for hiking across the Pennines not wandering around Florence, but the support and cushioning for hiking works equally well when you're on your feet all day exploring foreign cities.  My feet used to give out first and limit my day, now the rest of me gives up before they do!

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Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Slovakia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Slovakia.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Slovakia.

If you decide to travel to Slovakia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Slovakia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Six months beyond the intended date of departure

One page required for entry stamp

Not required for stays less than 90 days within a six-month period

10,000 euros

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy bratislava.

Hviezdoslavovo námestie 4, 811 02 Bratislava Slovakia Telephone: +(421) (2) 5443-0861 or +(421) (2) 5443-3338 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(421) 903-703-666 Fax: +(421) (2) 5441-8861 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the  Embassy of the Slovak Republic  website for the most current visa information and  CDC Travel Destination  page for immunization information.

Slovakia is a party to the Schengen Agreement. This means that U.S. citizens may enter Slovakia for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa.

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least six months upon arrival in the Schengen. If you plan on transiting a Schengen country review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .   
• You will need s ufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket . 
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

Carry  proof of sufficient funds  (such as a credit card) and make sure your medical insurance  policy covers all costs if in need of hospitalization and medical treatment in Slovakia.

• Upon arrival in Slovakia, you must  register with the local Border and Alien Police within three working days if you are staying in a private home . Hotels and official accommodation providers will register you automatically.
• If you want to  reside in Slovakia or stay longer than 90 days , you must apply for a temporary residency and/or work permit. You should complete the application process through the Slovak Embassy in Washington, D.C.  prior to arriving in the country . If you decide to stay longer at the time of our arrival in Slovakia, you should  begin the process upon arrival as the process normally takes longer than the 90 days  allowed visa free. Read the requirements on the  U.S. Embassy website  and prepare your application before traveling. Many required documents, such as an  FBI clearance , are easier to obtain in the United States. To follow up on the status of a request, please contact the FBI directly at  [email protected] .
• Slovak authorities strictly enforce residency laws.  Foreigners who stay beyond 90 days without a residency permit may be ordered to depart, or may even be deported with a possible ban on re-entry to the  entire Schengen area .

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Slovakia. A medical examination, including an HIV/AIDS test, is required to obtain a Slovakian residency permit.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Military/Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) Travelers : While active-duty U.S. military personnel may enter Slovakia under the (SOFA) with proper Department of Defense (DOD) identification and travel orders, all SOFA family members, civilian employees, and contractors must have valid passports. Active-duty military personnel are encouraged to obtain a tourist passport before leaving the United States to accommodate off-duty travel. DOD travelers should consult with their unit for clearance  before  leaving the United States.

Safety and Security

Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Europe. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks; however, all European countries remain vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.

Slovakia has seen an increase in the number of demonstrations in response to political events. Though still relatively rare, small, and so far peaceful, demonstrations and gatherings always have the potential to turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations. Please see the U.S. Embassy’s website for  safety and security messages .

Crime:  while crime is relatively low, street crimes against tourists do occur in tourist areas.

• The most common crimes reported include pickpocketing and cell phone and bag/purse theft, particularly during the summer months. Most thefts reported by U.S. citizens occur at crowded tourist sites (such as Bratislava’s Old Town area) or on public buses, trams, or trains.
• Be alert to criminal schemes. Thieves, including adults and/or children, often work in groups or pairs. In many cases, an individual or group distracts the victim, sometimes with musical instruments or pets, so that others can pickpocket.
• Criminals target tourists at nightclubs with ties to organized crime. In the past, such establishments have presented foreign customers with inflated bills and threatened those who refuse to pay. They also spike drinks with disabling drugs and take the impaired victims to ATMs and coerce them to withdraw funds until they empty their accounts or the card is blocked.
• Domestic and foreign organized criminal organizations are well established in Slovakia. Though uncommon, violent incidents sometimes do occur.

International Financial Scams : See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact the  U.S. Embassy . Report crimes to the local police by  dialing 112  and contact the U.S. Embassy at + (421) (2) 5443-0861 or + (421) (2) 5443-3338. The Embassy’s emergency after-hours number is + (421) 903-703-666.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

• English-speaking operators are normally available for emergency calls.
• Once an individual reports a crime, the police must investigate it according to local laws and procedures.
• Embassy employees are not able to act as your personal legal representatives or resolve private legal disputes.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a  list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find temporary accommodation and arrange flights home in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may  contact the Embassy  for assistance.

Tourism:  Within Bratislava the tourism industry is generally regulated and rules are enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically available to support organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available in the city. Outside Bratislava and throughout the country, the tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections of equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified by either the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

• Do not purchase counterfeit or pirated goods . They are illegal in the United States and you may be breaking local laws as well.
• Driving under the influence is a crime and may land you in jail . The blood alcohol tolerance level is  zero percent .
• It is illegal to take photographs of security or military installations . If you violate this law, authorities may confiscate the pictures and recordings, issue a reprimand or fine, or even expel you from the country.
• If you are over 16 years of age or older, you are required by law to carry a passport and/or a Slovak identity card at all times . A photocopy of your passport is not sufficient, although we recommend that you keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place.
• Slovak customs authorities enforce strict regulations  concerning temporary import or export of firearms, antiquities, medications, business equipment,  et al . Contact the  Embassy of the Slovak Republic  or a  Slovak consulate  in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements.
• Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  LGBTI U.S. Citizens in same-sex marriages or civil unions who travel to or reside in Slovakia may face difficulties and legal issues, as the country does not recognize same-sex unions and adopted a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage in 2014. Same-sex sexual activity between consenting adults is legal. Slovak law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity and classifies crimes based on sexual orientation as hate crimes, though these laws are not always enforced. Prejudice and societal discrimination persist. LGBTI persons occasionally report that they receive anti-LGBTI verbal abuse in the form of slurs. However, Bratislava and Kosice have hosted annual Pride parades without major incident since 2010.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information   page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:   Slovak law requires that public areas be accessible to persons with disabilities. Many older buildings and areas, however, have not been retrofitted.  Navigating most Slovak cities with a visual impairment or on a wheelchair is difficult due to the many obstacles and barriers on sidewalks and in public transport. Guide dogs are allowed in all municipal spaces, but may not be allowed in private shops, restaurants, and hotels; it is advised to call ahead to inquire.  See our  Traveling with Disabilities  page.

• Many sidewalks are narrow and uneven, and small towns may lack sidewalks.
• Some municipal spaces, such as post offices, hospitals, shopping centers, and libraries have either an elevator or platforms to accommodate customers who cannot use stairs.  Small restaurants and shops are less likely to be accessible.
• Traffic lights in some city centers have a sound signal for the visually-impaired, however, it is reported that they are often out-of-service.  Public signs for the visually-impaired are uncommon.
• The state television channels provide broadcasting for the hearing-impaired, and important national events frequently have visible sign language interpretation in real-time.
• Public transportation and the railway system stations generally lack elevators and do not provide easy access for people with mobility issues.  This is true even in the capital city of Bratislava.
• Only a few buses are equipped with lowering platforms, while trams have none.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

The quality and availability of medical facilities varies. A limited number of doctors speak English.

• For any emergency, including medical emergencies,  call 112 .
• English-speaking dispatchers are usually available.
• Children’s emergencies are handled at Bratislava’s Children’s University Hospital.
• Ambulance services are widely available. 

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

• Without Slovak health insurance, ambulance service starts at 120 euros per transport .
• Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.
• You may need special insurance for  hiking and skiing , which is available from local providers.
• If you  stay longer than 90 days , you need local health insurance.
• The tick-borne encephalitis vaccination is recommended. Contact your doctor for more information.

We do not pay medical bills . We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  Check with the Slovak Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Slovakia.

The following disease is prevalent:

• Tick-borne encephalitis  (TBE) can result from the bites of ticks commonly found in the bushes and grass of forests in Slovakia at lower and middle elevations.  They are most active from spring to late fall especially in the northern regions of Trencin and Zilina.  Low risk exists throughout the rest of the country. Transmission occurs throughout the year, with highest activity from June through September.
• Even though the CDC does not explicitly recommend the TBE vaccine,  other official European sources have recommended the TBE vaccine for travelers who plan to stay for extended periods or who plan to camp and stay outdoors.  Vaccines are available through a general practitioner or a pediatrician in Slovakia but are not available in the U.S.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout the country.
• Doctors, hospitals, and ambulance services in Slovakia  expect cash payment  unless the patient can present an insurance number from the  Slovak National Insurance Company  or show proof of private insurance prior to needing medical care.
• Travelers should make efforts to obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care.
• Nurses may speak little or no English.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.
• The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals .  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

Although Slovakia has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies.  If you plan to undergo surgery in Slovakia, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available, and professionals are accredited and qualified.

• People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations.  Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the CDC Medical Tourism for more information on Medical Tourism.
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Slovakia.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are available through the Office of Supervision of Healthcare Providers at the Public Health Authority . Official communication is in Slovak language only.

Pharmaceuticals          

• Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription, are often readily available for purchase.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.
• Slovakia does not allow the importation of medication unless the traveler shows the prescription and the amount necessary for the trip. Please review Slovakia’s rules on medication at the Slovak Ministry of Health .

Non-Traditional Medicine

• Officially licensed medical providers can be verified at https://www.portaludzs.sk/overenie-poskytovatela-zdravotnej-starostlivosti

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy

• Surrogacy is illegal in Slovakia.
• Foreigners do not regularly travel to Slovakia for ART services.

Water Quality: In Slovakia, tap water is potable. Bottled water and beverages are also safe.

Air Quality: Cities in Slovakia have air pollution levels similar to those in major U.S. cities. Levels are generally low during the warm season but sometimes worse than U.S. standards in the cold season. Visit the European Environment Agency’s website for information on air quality in Slovakia.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads in Slovakia are generally safe and well-maintained. Four-lane highways exist in and around Bratislava. Most roads outside of developed areas; however, are two lanes only.  Aggressive drivers  attempting to pass at unsafe speeds pose a serious hazard.

• Use  caution  when driving outside urban areas at night. The roads are narrow, winding, and poorly lit.
• From November through March, Slovakia experiences heavy snow . Snow removal is not adequate on rural roads. Roads in the mountainous northern part of the country are particularly prone to hazardous conditions during winter months.  The law requires winter tires for snowy conditions , and chains are necessary in certain mountainous areas.

Traffic Laws:  You must use seatbelts and headlights at all times. It is illegal to use cellular phones while driving.

• Children under 12 year of age, weighing less than 80 pounds in weight or less than 5 feet in height must use a car seat or a booster.
• You must have a motorcycle license and wear a helmet to operate a motorized two-wheeled vehicle.
• Reflective safety vests and first aid kits must be in each vehicle.
• Driving under the influence of ANY alcohol is a crime under Slovak law.  The blood alcohol tolerance level is  zero percent . Police stop cars randomly to perform breath tests.
• If you get a ticket, you can pay the fine in cash on the spot to the officer.  If you cannot pay the fine on the spot, you will receive a notice to appear later at a police station, and the fine will be higher. Reportedly, foreigners are sometimes cited for more expensive violations than they commit, in an attempt to collect extra money from people who may not know the rules well.

As of January 1, 2016, you need to buy an electronic vignette to use certain highways and motorways. A vignette is a sticker that fixes to the windscreen to be clearly visible from the outside, showing that you’ve paid to drive along those roads. You can purchase it online .

You must obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) prior to your arrival if you intend to drive in Slovakia. You can get an IDP in the United States from the  American Automobile Association  and the  American Automobile Touring Alliance .

• More information is available from the Dopravny Inspektorat at the district police department in your place of residence.
• For specific information concerning a Slovak driver’s permit, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, contact the  Embassy of Slovakia  in Washington, D.C.
• Additional information about driving in Slovakia can be found on the Embassy  website .

Public Transportation:  Buses, trolleybuses, and trams are mechanically safe and generally reliable. We recommend using clearly marked taxicabs.

• On public transportation, you must  validate a ticket  upon entering the vehicle. The ticket is valid for your entire journey. Major cities also offer tickets by SMS message through a local telephone service provider.
• In most cities, you can buy passes valid for periods ranging from 24 hours to one year. Children from six to 15 years of age pay reduced fares.
• A ticket inspector will fine passengers who are traveling without a valid ticket ; inspectors board transportation at random. The ticket inspector will have an identification card and must provide a receipt for the fare.
• More information is provided in English on the  Bratislava city transport website  and websites of other cities with public transportation.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Slovakia, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Government of Slovakia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Slovakia . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Oklahoma man facing 12 years in Turks & Caicos prison released on bond, banned from travel

Ryan watson made bail a couple weeks after he was detained and arrested for ammo possession in turks & caicos. but he's not allowed to leave..

An American man facing 12 years in prison in Turks & Caicos after airport security found ammunition in his duffel bag won’t have to spend one more night in jail . For now.

Ryan Watson, 40, appeared before a court on Wednesday, agreeing to pay $15,000 to secure his release, according to a news alert from The Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force. 

The court granted Watson's release about two weeks after he was initially detained and arrested. He's being released with a slew of stipulations, including being prohibited from leaving the archipelago nation. He also had to surrender his passport and travel documents to the court, and needs to report to police twice a week as his case moves through the system.

His next court hearing is set for June 7.

Here’s what we know.

Why were Ryan and Valerie Watson detained in the Turks and Caicos?

Ryan and Valerie Watson were in Turks & Caicos to celebrate the 40th birthdays of several friends in early April, USA TODAY reported.

The couple was trying to catch a flight back home on April 12, when airport security found four rounds of ammunition “unknowingly left in a duffel bag from a deer hunting trip,” according to a GoFundMe post made on behalf of the family. 

They were both questioned and subsequently charged with possession of ammunition, a charge that carries a minimum of 12 years in prison in Turks & Caicos.

The couple was stuck on the island without passports, unable to get back to their two young children, which left Valerie Watson “terrified.” 

“We can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home," she told WBTS-TV in Boston  "And this is such an innocent mistake that we ... didn't even know it was there. So yeah, my immediate thought was our kids and them being parentless for that long."

Ryan Watson maintains that it was a “bonehead mistake” on his part, not knowing that the ammunition rounds he typically uses to hunt whitetail deer were in his bag, the outlet reported.

Ultimately, the charges were dropped against Valerie Watson, who has returned to Oklahoma.

Oklahoma governor vouches for family: ‘Outstanding members of the community’ 

Days after the Watson family was detained, Republican Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt sent a letter to the Turks & Caicos Islands government in an attempt to get the home sooner.

“The Watsons are upstanding members of their community and the State of Oklahoma, and I can assure you countless others stand willing to confirm their high moral characters,” Stitt said.

He continued to say that the couple would never “intentionally break the law,” emphasizing the importance of having them return to Oklahoma so they can continue to serve the community, Valerie as a school teacher and Ryan as a medical product salesman.

 And so that their children, Van and Ellie, don’t have to face another day without both parents, he said.

Family creates GoFundMe to bring Ryan Watson home 

Close friends have created a GoFundMe on behalf of the Watson family to cover the costs of “mounting legal fees, living expenses, and the overwhelming stress of their situation.” 

Valerie Watson said that the strain her family is under is tremendous, telling WBTS-TV that it could “ruin them.” 

“We've already talked, and we're like, what if we lose our house? Which, when we moved to Oklahoma, we built a home that we thought was our forever home,” she said. 

The sentiment was echoed by Ryan Watson, who says “this is something that we may never recover from.” 

“The emotional and financial toll is immense, and they are at risk of losing everything,” the fundraiser description reads. 

The GoFundMe had raised about $196,000 of the $250,000 goal by Friday night. 

What happens next?

Valerie Watson and her children are awaiting her husband’s next court appearance, set for June 7.

Even though Ryan Watson “forgot” about the ammunition in his bag, he may not be able to leave the Turks & Caicos Islands without serving time. The government prohibits anyone, of status or origin, to possess a firearm, ammunition, or any other weapon.

There are exceptions to this, of course, but the court is still required to issue “both a sentence of imprisonment and a fine” that are in line with what the court would consider an “exceptional circumstance,” USA TODAY reported. 

The Turks & Caicos government stiffened the penalties for firearm possession in February, noting that there were a handful of cases involving "exceptional circumstances" that allowed accused people to get away with paying a fine. “exceptional circumstances."

Man missing in Arizona may have tried to travel through Grand Canyon in homemade raft with small dog

The National Park Service was looking for a man who went missing at Grand Canyon National Park.

Thomas Lee Robison, a 58-year-old resident of Santa Fe, New Mexico, was believed to have been attempted to travel down the Colorado River with his small dog on a wooden raft when he disappeared, the National Park Service said in a news release.

The National Park Service said Robison's vehicle was found abandoned at Lees Ferry within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area on Sunday.

Robison is described as a white male with brown hair and hazel eyes. He weighs 160 pounds and is 5 feet 10 inches tall. His dog is an 11-year-old Welsh Corgi.

Officials were conducting a missing person investigation. Anyone with information should contact the Grand Canyon Dispatch at 928-638-7805.

Search ongoing for man who may have taken homemade raft down Colorado River

Authorities are searching for a man and his dog after they disappeared at Grand Canyon National Park, possibly while trying to travel the Colorado River on a homemade wooden raft.

Thomas Lee Robison, 58, of Santa Fe, New Mexico, "may have attempted to go down the Colorado River with his dog, who is a Welsh corgi, on a self made raft,” the National Park Service said in a statement and in a missing person flyer Wednesday .

Robison’s dog was described as a 25-pound corgi that is 11 years old.

The park service included a picture of the raft, which appeared to show three wooden boards crudely held together, as well as a paddle and a life vest.

A champagne-colored 2001 Toyota Tacoma belonging to Robinson was found abandoned Sunday at Lee’s Ferry in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, according to the park service.

Robison, who stands about 5 feet, 10 inches tall and weighs about 160 pounds, has brown hair and hazel eyes, the park service said.

Anyone who may have seen him is urged to contact Grand Canyon Dispatch at 928-638-7805.

Antonio Planas is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital. 

Travel Man: SerieS 4

Christmas special  .

Hollywood actor Rebel Wilson joins Richard for a fun-packed whizz round Florence in a mini-break mixing art, action, gelato, a drive in a classic Alfa Romeo, and some tripe. HOTEL:

AdAstra Hôtel Particulier

adastraflorence.com

FOOD AND DRINK:

Meracato Centrale Market for the Tripe Sandwich: www.mercatocentrale.it/en/mercato-centrale-florence   In Fabbrica Restaurant, dinner in the silver workshop: www.restaurant.pampaloni.com   Cappuccino and budino di riso at Ditta Artigianale: www.dittaartigianale.it   Find Gelato Pasco at: ​Gelateria Pasco, Piazza di Santa Maria Novella ​ ​ACTIVITIES: 

Florence Cathedral: www.ilgrandemuseodelduomo.it   Meracato Centrale Market for the Tripe Sandwich: www.mercatocentrale.it   Uffizi Gallery featuring The Birth of Venus by  Botticelli: www.uffizi.org   Accademia Gallery, featuring Michelangelo’s David: www.accademia.org   Rafting on Arno river: www.firenzerafting.it/en   Hire yourself a classic Alfa Romeo: www.chianticlassiccar.com   Truffle Hunter Walk!: www.trufflehunter.net   Hidden Florence App for a free walking tour with fictional tour guide Giovani!: hiddenflorence.org   Find the wax anatomical collection  at La Specola, The Museum of Zoology and Natural History: www.msn.unifi.it

EpiSode One 

Comedian Rob Beckett joins Richard Ayoade in Russia's cultural capital, for a post-Soviet itinerary including an armoured tank, caviar, vodka, and a herring in a fur coat. HOTEL: 

The Official State Hermitage

www.thehermitagehotel.ru/en/ FOOD AND DRINK:  Soviet Café Kvartirka: www.reca.rest/restaurants/KvartirkaVO   The world’s only Caviar Bar in the Grand Hotel Europe: www.belmond.com/grand-hotel   Singer Café: Nevsky avenue, 28, Saint-Petersburg, Leningrad Oblast, Russia, 191186 ACTIVITIES:  New Holland Ice Skating: www.newhollandsp.ru/en   Spa: www.thehermitagehotel.ru/en   Swan Lake: nab. Lebyazhyey kanavki, Saint-Petersburg, Russia   Horse and Cart Palace Square: Many available around the city   Metro station: Admiralteyskaya Coin Toss CHIZHIK-PYZHIK: Fontanka river embankment, Saint-Petersburg, Russia, 191023 ​Hermitage Musuem: www.hermitagemuseum.org/wps Ice Sculpture Festival at Peter and Paul Fortress, St Petersburg  

EpiSode TWO 

Richard and comedian Aisling Bea make a whirlwind tour of Hungary's fairy-tale capital, with selfies, goulash, cake, pubs, liquor, and a game of chess at the thermal baths. HOTEL:

www.lavendercircus.com/ FOOD AND DRINK:  Kehli Restaurant: www.kehli.hu/   Chimney Cake: Töltött Kürtős, Erzsébet tér 13, Budapest, Hungary, 1051   Ruin Bar:  ​en.szimpla.hu/szimpla-garden   Richard and Aisling tried Hungarian sparkling wine at the Piknik Pavillion: piknikpavilon.hu ACTIVITIES:  Fungarian tour: fungarian.hu Children’s railway: www.gyermekvasut.hu   Chair lift: www.bkv.hu/en/zugliget_chairlift   Széchenyi Baths: www.szechenyibath.hu Funicular: www.bkv.hu/en/buda_castle_funicular

EpiSode Three

Richard Ayoade packs his case and heads to the Canaries to discover what lies beyond the all-inclusive resorts of the volcanic island of Tenerife.  Making the trip from LA to join him is writer, director and actor, Lena Dunham. HOTEL:

Hotel Emblemático Casa Casilda hotel-emblematico-casa-casilda.tacoronte.hotel-tenerife.net/en/ FOOD AND DRINK: Guachinche: Casa Lito – Calle Tijarafe, 35, 38390 Sta Úrsula, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain ‘Barraquito’ accompanied by Morcilla Dulce (sweet black pudding) at : www.lahierbita.com ACTIVITIES: Whale watching Tour: tenerifesailingcharters.es/sailingenglish Stargazing: www.volcanoteide.com/en   Golf lesson: www.golfcostaadeje.com/en   Auditorio de Tenerife: Av de la Constitucion, 1, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain   Mount Teide National Park, including the Roque Cinchado and the Las Canadas Luna Landscape ​Santa Cruz Sculpture trail: Rambla De Santa Cruz, Tenerife 

EpiSode Four

Richard and Rhod Gilbert's high-speed visit to Florida's famous hot spot takes in art, art deco, alligators, speedboats, an airboat tour of the everglades - and dominoes. HOTEL:

The Raleigh Hotel  raleighhotel.com FOOD AND DRINK: They had lunch at Joe Stone’s Crab:  www.joesstonecrab.com They stopped for a cold pressed juice at Jugo Fresh. ACTIVITIES: Speed boat tour with Captain Mike:  www.speedboattours.com Bingo with Miss Toto:  www.gramps.com   Air-boat ride in the Everglades:  coopertownairboats.com   Yoga on the beach:  3rdstreetbeachyoga.com   Wynwood Walls:  www.thewynwoodwalls.com El Cristo Cuban Restaurant, The Ball and Chain Bar and Maximo Park are all on SW 8th Street in Miami's Little Havana neighbourhood

Watch CBS News

Man dies after setting himself on fire near Trump trial courthouse in NYC

By Graham Kates , Pat Milton , Jericka Duncan

Updated on: April 20, 2024 / 8:38 PM EDT / CBS News

A man who set himself on fire outside the New York City courthouse where former President Donald Trump's hush money trial is underway has died, police said. 

Witnesses said that they saw the man — identified by the New York Police Department as 37-year-old Max Azzarello — pour liquid over his head and set himself on fire at 1:39 p.m. local time on Friday. 

In a briefing immediately after the incident, the NYPD said Azzarello, a Florida resident who had arrived in New York City earlier in the week, walked into Collect Pond Park, opened a book bag, and scattered papers and pamphlets on the ground before setting himself ablaze. Police described the materials as "like a conspiracy-theory type of pamphlet." 

Azzarello then fell on a police barrier. Civilians and court officers used coats and extinguishers to try to put out the fire, the NYPD said, and the New York City Fire Department responded, finally extinguishing the fire. 

The FDNY said that Azzarello was transported to New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medical Center, which has a burn center, in critical condition. 

The NYPD confirmed to CBS News overnight that Azzarello had died on Friday night. 

Four officers who responded to the fire suffered minor injuries.

Azzarello had posted a statement on social media, officials said. Although the incident took place close to the court where Trump's trial is taking place, officials said Azzarello did not appear to be targeting any particular person or group and added that he seemed to be a conspiracy theorist.

One witness described pamphlets that Azzarello threw, apparently while making allegations about New York University.

 "I heard this clattering, and it was those papers that he had flung up in the air," the witness said. "That caught our attention and — caught my attention, anyway ... then he pulled out a can and he poured it over himself. And at that point, I thought, 'Oh ... this is gonna be awful." 

"It happened so fast — what do you do?" another witness said. 

Graham Kates is an investigative reporter covering criminal justice, privacy issues and information security for CBS News Digital. Contact Graham at [email protected] or [email protected]

More from CBS News

What it's like to watch Trump's "hush money" trial from inside the courtroom

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In Trump immunity case, Supreme Court seems open to some protection

Joe Lycett shows us how to get the most out of some of the world's most popular mini-breaks

Richard and Eddie Izzard take in lovely Ljubljana; local tapas and orange wine; and make a trip to the stunningly beautiful Lake Bled

Jessica Fostekew and Joe enjoy volcanic vino and cactus croquettes on their Canarian caper

Adam Buxton and Joe explore Czech sights, eat sausages from skulls and hop into a beer spa

Desiree Burch joins Joe in Rovaniemi for aurorae-gazing and sleigh-riding shenanigans

Alan Davies and Joe traverse around Trieste and shoot the breeze at the Wind Museum

Joe and Asim Chaudhry visit an underwater museum and a world-famous skatepark

Joe and Roisin Conaty enjoy a culinary horse-carriage tour and a spot of musical cycling

Joe and comedian Mawaan Rizwan spend two days sightseeing, swimming and swigging stout

Sarah Millican joins Joe for hot air ballooning, cepelini dumplings and gira in Vilnius

96 Hours in Rio

Joe and Stephen Mangan visit Christ the Redeemer and cook Christmas dinner Brazilian-style

Joe and Katherine Parkinson sample local beers and explore Antwerp's subterranean tunnels

Joe and Mo Gilligan get hands-on with halloumi and sample a 24-carat gold ice lolly

Aisling Bea joins Joe for some Croatian cooking, paddleboarding and a visit to Froggyland

The Basque Country

Joe and James Acaster bask in Bilbao's art, kalimotxos and foodie capital San Sebastián

96 Hours in Iceland

New host Joe Lycett is off on his debut voyage to Iceland with comedian Bill Bailey

Richard and Ellie Taylor team up for a two-day meander rich in art, history and ham

Richard and Joe Wilkinson whizz round the historic Polish city, with art nouveau and vodka

Richard and Lou Sanders have a blast in Bergen, Norway

A Game of Thrones tour and a trip to a cursed island with Stephen Merchant

Richard Ayoade and Bob Mortimer go for a spin round cosmopolitan Hamburg

Richard and Alice Levine - DJ, broadcaster & podcaster - do Estonia's capital in 48 hours

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TSA officers prevent man from bringing loaded handgun onto flight at Norfolk International Airport

NORFOLK, Va. – Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers at Norfolk International Airport prevented a Florida resident from bringing his loaded handgun onto a flight on Friday, April 19.

The handgun was loaded with 13 bullets, including one in the chamber and was the 10th firearm that TSA officers have intercepted at the checkpoint so far this year.

The gun was detected as the man entered the security checkpoint. The X-ray unit alerted on the carry-on bag, which required a closer inspection. The firearm was removed by the local police, who confiscated the weapon and cited the man on a weapons charge. TSA does not confiscate firearms; law enforcement officers do.

In addition to being criminally cited by police, the man also faces a stiff financial civil penalty for bringing a gun to a TSA security checkpoint. The penalty for carrying weapons can reach as high as $15,000, depending on the circumstances.

The case will be forwarded to the Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney for possible criminal prosecution.

“It appears that this traveler had packed his firearm in a gun case, however, he needed just a few more important steps before he could travel with it,” explained Robin “Chuck” Burke, TSA’s Federal Security Director for the airport. “He needed to ensure the firearm was unloaded, then taken the locked gun case to his airline to declare he wanted to fly with it. At that point, the airline representative would ensure that the firearm could be transported as checked baggage Our TSA officers remain vigilant during this busy spring break travel season to help ensure everyone can travel safely.”

Firearms caught by TSA officers at Norfolk International Airport checkpoints, 2016 to 2024

Passengers are only permitted to travel with firearms in checked baggage.  Firearms must be unloaded then packed in a hard-sided locked case. The locked case must be taken to the airline check-in counter to be declared. TSA has details on how to properly travel with a firearm posted on its website .

Firearm possession laws vary by state and locality and gun owners have a duty to ensure they are not violating any local firearm laws. Additionally, contacting the respective airline could reveal any additional requirements for traveling with firearms and ammunition.

Bringing a gun to an airport checkpoint carries a federal civil penalty because TSA reserves the right to issue a civil penalty to travelers who have guns and gun parts with them at a checkpoint. Civil penalties for bringing a gun into a checkpoint can stretch into thousands of dollars, depending on mitigating circumstances. This applies to travelers with or without concealed gun carry permits because a concealed carry permit does not allow a firearm to be carried onto an airplane. The complete list of civil penalties is posted online . Additionally, if a traveler with a gun is a member of TSA PreCheck®, that individual will lose their TSA PreCheck privileges.

Last year, 6,735 firearms were caught at airport security checkpoints nationwide and 93 percent of them were loaded.

Unsure if an item should be packed in a carry-on bag, checked bag, either or neither? Download the free myTSA app , which has a handy “What can I bring?” feature that allows you to type in the item to find out if it can fly. Or ask on Twitter or Facebook Messenger at @AskTSA . Travelers may send a question by texting “Travel” to AskTSA (275-872).