Things To Do
in Kežmarok
Kežmarok is a charming town located in northeastern Slovakia, near the High Tatras mountains. It is known for its well-preserved historic center with colorful Renaissance and Baroque buildings. The town is also famous for its wooden Articular church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kežmarok offers a unique combination of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
- "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 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kežmarok Castle, where you can explore its rich history and stunning architecture. Don't forget to stroll through the castle gardens for beautiful views.
Head to the historic Old Town and enjoy a traditional Slovak lunch at a local restaurant. Take time to admire the unique wooden Articular Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Relax at a cozy café, sipping on local beverages as you reflect on your day. Enjoy the charming atmosphere of the town square as the evening lights come on.
Visit the Kežmarok City Museum to learn more about the town's history and its significance in the region. The museum features fascinating exhibits that capture the essence of Kežmarok.
Take a guided tour of the iconic wooden church and appreciate its intricate craftsmanship. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a nearby café offering regional specialties.
Stroll along the riverside promenade, taking in the scenic views as the sun sets. Find a local spot for dinner, where you can taste authentic Slovak dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage, including a well-preserved medieval town center.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the nearby High Tatras mountains.
- Cultural events and festivals that highlight local traditions.
- Affordability in terms of living costs compared to larger cities.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and cycling.
- Limited job opportunities and economic development compared to larger urban areas.
- Potentially less access to modern amenities and services.
- Public transportation options may be limited, making travel less convenient.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to more populous cities.
- Harsh winters that may not be suitable for everyone.
Best Activities in Kežmarok
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of the High Tatras, offering various difficulty levels, stunning views, and diverse flora and fauna.
Enjoy a guided tour of the fascinating Kežmarok Castle, which offers insights into the region's history and architecture.
Bike along the scenic paths beside the Poprad River, suitable for all ages and skill levels.
During winter, visit the nearby Ski Resort Starý Smokovec for skiing, snowboarding, and family-friendly winter activities.
Venture into Slovak Paradise National Park for canyoneering, hiking, and stunning waterfalls.
Experience an exhilarating rafting adventure on the Dunajec River, taking in the breathtaking views of the Pieniny mountains.
Enjoy peaceful walks or picnics in Kežmarok Park, perfect for relaxing amidst nature.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Wooden Articular Church in Kežmarok, a beautiful example of wooden architecture.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kežmarok with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kežmarok
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding area, with opportunities for picturesque photographs.
Provides a stunning backdrop for photographs with its architectural beauty and scenic surroundings.
A picturesque location with colorful buildings and historical architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of the town.
Food in Kežmarok
Kežmarok Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish made of potato dumplings mixed with bryndza sheep cheese and topped with crispy bacon. Best enjoyed at Koliba Patria.
Must-Try!
A hot tea blend of rum, honey, and lemon, perfect for warming up after a day of exploring. Available at most traditional Slovak restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kežmarok better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the market for an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, and handcrafted sausages. Don't miss out on trying Trdelník, a sweet pastry cooked over an open flame and dusted with cinnamon sugar.
Explore the square for a variety of street food stalls offering flavorful lángos, a deep-fried flatbread topped with various savory or sweet toppings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Kežmarok, it is customary to greet them with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Using formal titles and surnames is common until invited to use first names.
If invited to someone's home for a meal, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as flowers or sweets. Wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating.
Kežmarok has rich cultural traditions, especially in terms of local festivals and customs. Show respect and interest by asking questions or participating when invited.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kežmarok with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kežmarok
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kežmarok, Slovakia, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is customary to tip around 10% of the total bill in restaurants and cafes if the service was satisfactory. In casual settings, rounding up the bill is also common. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is appreciated as well.
Most establishments in Kežmarok accept both cash and card payments. The Euro is the official currency, and ATMs are easily accessible. Many restaurants, shops, and hotels accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash, particularly in smaller local businesses or markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Kežmarok, with milder temperatures and beautiful blooming flowers. It is a perfect time for hiking and exploring the surrounding countryside.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Kežmarok. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the historic town center.
Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Kežmarok as the surrounding countryside transforms into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. It's a great time for photography and nature walks.
Winter is magical in Kežmarok, with the snow-covered landscape creating a picturesque scene. Visitors can enjoy winter sports and festive Christmas markets in the town square.
Kežmarok at Night
Hiking in Kežmarok
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park located in the High Tatras range, offering numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views, diverse flora and fauna, and varying levels of difficulty suitable for all hikers.
A popular resort area that serves as a starting point for various hiking trails, including routes to the Lomnický štít and scenic walks through alpine meadows.
A beautiful valley featuring several hiking trails that lead to majestic mountain views, waterfalls, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
A charming mountain village that offers access to trails leading through the High Tatras, known for its picturesque landscapes and family-friendly hiking options.
A popular hiking area easily accessible from Starý Smokovec, offering trails to the beautiful waterfalls in the area and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Aiports
How to reach Kežmarok by plane.
Located approximately 100 km from Kežmarok, Košice International Airport is the second largest airport in Slovakia, serving both domestic and international flights.
Situated about 20 km from Kežmarok, Poprad–Tatry Airport is a smaller international airport that caters to regional flights and seasonal charter services.
Approximately 320 km away, Bratislava Airport is the largest international airport in Slovakia, offering extensive connections to destinations across Europe and beyond.
Located about 200 km from Kežmarok, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport serves as a major international hub in Hungary with a wide range of intercontinental flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Kežmarok, comprising the majority of the population.
A significant minority group with a cultural presence in the area.
A smaller ethnic community, especially around historical regions of Slovakia.
A minority group in Kežmarok, historically linked to the region.
A historical community, remnants of which can still be seen in the cultural landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in Kežmarok, involving local clubs and youth teams participating in regional leagues.
A popular winter sport in the region, with local teams competing in various leagues and tournaments.
An increasingly popular sport among youth and adults, with local clubs engaging in competitions.
Played both recreationally and competitively, with clubs and community teams participating in local leagues.
Includes various track and field events, with local schools and clubs promoting physical fitness and competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kežmarok.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like fried cheese with tartar sauce or Slovak garlic soup. For vegan options, look for dishes like vegetable pirohy (dumplings) or grilled vegetables.
Several places in Kežmarok provide gluten-free alternatives, including Cafe Razy, which offers gluten-free cakes and pastries.