Things To Do
in Slovakia
Slovakia is a landlocked country in Central Europe, known for its picturesque landscapes that encompass mountains, forests, caves, and medieval castles. It has a rich cultural heritage, marked by folk traditions, historic towns like Bratislava, its capital, which boasts a vibrant arts scene alongside the Danube River.
The nation's economy is diverse and developed, with significant contributions from sectors such as automotive, technology, and tourism, reflecting its integration within the European Union.
- "Dobrý deň" - Good day
- "Ďakujem" - Thank you
- "Prosím" - Please
- "Ako sa máš?" - How are you?
- "Na zdravie" - Cheers
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Explore the charming old town of Bratislava, starting at the iconic Bratislava Castle for stunning views of the Danube. Wander through the narrow streets to discover unique shops and cafes.
Visit the Slovak National Museum to learn about the rich history of Slovakia. Enjoy lunch at a local bistro and stroll along the iconic Danube River promenade.
Dine at a traditional Slovak restaurant and savor local dishes. Take a leisurely walk to the UFO Observation Deck for breathtaking night views of the city.
Embark on a hike in the High Tatras, starting with the scenic trails around Štrbské Pleso Lake. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and the beautiful landscape.
Continue your hike to the nearby waterfall and have a picnic lunch amidst nature. Explore charming mountain villages that dot the landscape.
Return to your lodge for a local dinner featuring hearty Slovak cuisine. Spend the evening stargazing in the clear mountain skies.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with numerous historical sites and traditions.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including the High Tatras mountains and numerous national parks.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western European countries.
- Welcoming and friendly people, offering warm hospitality.
- Growing economy with increasing opportunities for business and employment.
- Limited public transportation options in rural areas.
- Language barrier, as English is not widely spoken outside urban centers.
- Some infrastructure may need improvement, particularly in smaller towns.
- Evolving job market with some limitations for foreign professionals.
- Bureaucratic hurdles can make processes slow and frustrating for residents and businesses.
Best Activities in Slovakia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful mountain trails in the High Tatras, offering breathtaking scenery and a variety of hiking routes for all levels of experience.
Enjoy the picturesque landscapes and challenging cycling trails in the Slovak Paradise National Park, known for its unique rock formations and lush forests.
Embark on an exhilarating rafting adventure through the stunning Dunajec River Gorge, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and pristine nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of Slovakia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Slovakia
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering stunning mountain views, pristine lakes, and picturesque valleys.
One of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Located on a hill overlooking the Danube River, providing excellent photo opportunities of the city and the river.
Known for its deep gorges, waterfalls, and limestone cliffs, providing numerous scenic spots for photographs.
Perched on a high rock above Orava River, offering magnificent views of the surrounding landscape.
Food in Slovakia
Slovakia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Considered the national dish, this is a hearty meal of potato dumplings with sheep cheese and bacon. Best found in traditional Slovak taverns called 'kolibas.'
Must-Try!
A flavorful and aromatic soup made with sauerkraut, sausage, mushrooms, and a mix of spices, traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas season.
These are Slovak dumplings filled with savory ingredients such as bryndza (sheep cheese), potatoes, and meat, often served with a dollop of sour cream.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Slovakia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and homemade specialties. Don't miss out on trying 'lokše,' a traditional Slovak potato pancake.
A historical marketplace featuring a variety of street food stalls offering delicacies like grilled meats, traditional pastries, and freshly baked breads.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Slovakia, it's common to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time. It's also important to use formal titles and surnames when addressing someone, especially those who are older or in a position of authority.
Slovakian culture places a strong emphasis on traditions and customs. It's important to show respect for these by participating in local traditions and being mindful of cultural sensitivities, especially during holidays and special occasions.
When dining in Slovakia, it's customary to wait until the host or the oldest person at the table starts eating before you begin. It's also polite to keep your hands visible on the table and to say 'dobrú chuť' (bon appétit) before starting your meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Slovakia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Slovakia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Slovakia is not compulsory, but it is appreciated for good service. A 10% tip is customary in restaurants if the service charge is not included in the bill.
In Slovakia, cash is widely used for smaller transactions, but credit and debit cards are accepted in most businesses. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Slovakia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is an ideal time to visit Slovakia as the weather is pleasant, and the countryside comes to life with colorful blooms and lush greenery. It's also a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
Summer brings warm weather and plenty of sunshine, making it a popular time for tourists to visit Slovakia. This season offers great opportunities for outdoor adventures, including swimming in the country's numerous lakes and exploring the national parks.
Autumn in Slovakia is characterized by beautiful foliage as the leaves change color, creating a picturesque landscape. It's also a good time for cultural experiences, as many festivals and events take place during this season.
Winter transforms Slovakia into a winter wonderland, offering opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Visitors can also experience traditional Slovak Christmas markets and festivities during this time.
Slovakia at Night
Hiking in Slovakia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A mountain range located on the border between Slovakia and Poland, offering numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty, stunning views, and diverse wildlife.
Known for its unique rock formations, gorges, and waterfalls, Slovak Paradise offers a variety of hiking trails that include ladders and chains for a more adventurous experience.
A picturesque mountain park featuring accessible trails, with highlights such as the famous Velký Kriváň peak and lush green valleys.
Famous for its scenic views of the Dunajec River and the Pieniny Mountains, this park offers hiking trails that are ideal for families and nature enthusiasts.
A stunning national park characterized by its rolling hills, limestone formations, and dense forests, offering various hiking routes suitable for all levels.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Slovakia through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Slovakia by plane.
Located in Vienna, Austria, this is the closest major international airport to Slovakia, approximately 60 km from Bratislava.
Situated in Budapest, Hungary, this airport is around 200 km from Bratislava.
Located in Brno, Czech Republic, this airport is about 130 km from Bratislava.
This airport is located in Katowice, Poland, approximately 300 km from Bratislava.
Situated in Prague, Czech Republic, this international airport is around 330 km from Bratislava.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Slovakia, comprising around 80-85% of the population.
The largest ethnic minority in Slovakia, primarily located in the southern regions, making up about 8-10% of the population.
An ethnic minority group in Slovakia that is estimated to comprise 2-3% of the population, although exact numbers are difficult to determine.
A minority in Slovakia, primarily due to historical ties, making up about 1% of the population.
An ethnic group that constitutes a small percentage of the population, often involved in work in specific sectors.
Includes various smaller groups such as Germans, Poles, and Jews, each making up less than 1% of the population.
The Soul of Slovakia
Discover the essence of Slovakia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in Slovakia, with a rich history and numerous successes in international competitions.
Football is widely followed and played in Slovakia, with a strong domestic league and participation in UEFA competitions.
Canoeing has a strong tradition in Slovakia, particularly in slalom events, with many successful athletes in international competitions.
Basketball is increasingly popular in Slovakia, with a growing fan base and development programs for youth.
Athletics enjoys popularity due to various track and field events and Slovakia's participation in international athletics competitions.
Ice skating, including figure skating and speed skating, is popular in Slovakia, supported by various clubs and training facilities.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Slovakia offer vegetarian options, and in cities like Bratislava, there are specifically vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries. Traditional dishes like 'strapačky' can be made vegetarian-friendly by omitting the bacon.
While traditional Slovak cuisine heavily features wheat-based products, some restaurants and bakeries in larger cities provide gluten-free alternatives, especially for popular dishes like pirohy and halušky.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Slovakia with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Slovakia.