Things To Do
in Kežmarok
Kežmarok is a historic town in Slovakia’s Spiš region, set at the foothills of the High Tatras. Its center combines well-preserved Renaissance and Gothic architecture, giving visitors a sense of medieval life amid modern cafes and shops. The town sits beside the Poprad River, with easy access to picturesque countryside and nearby castles.
A friendly, compact destination, Kežmarok serves as a gateway to both cultural sights and outdoor adventures in northern Slovakia.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kežmarok and check into your charming accommodation. After settling in, take a leisurely stroll through the town to soak in the enchanting mountain scenery. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at a local café to fuel your day ahead.
Explore the fascinating Kežmarok Castle, where you can wander through its historical halls and learn about its storied past. After touring the castle, visit the nearby wooden church, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting intricate architecture. Take some time to enjoy lunch at a traditional Slovak restaurant, tasting local specialties.
As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a cozy bistro overlooking the town square. Engage with locals or fellow travelers while savoring regional dishes. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk, taking in the illuminated sights of Kežmarok.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, perfect for an active day ahead. Head to the High Tatras, just a short drive away, to explore the breathtaking trails. A guided hike will offer stunning vistas and the chance to witness the diverse flora and fauna native to the region.
After a morning of hiking, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, relishing the tranquility of the mountains. Continue your adventure in the High Tatras with an additional hike or opt for a cable car ride for panoramic views. Make sure to capture the magical landscape with your camera.
Return to Kežmarok and unwind at a local tavern, sharing stories from your day's adventures. Opt for a tasting menu to experience various traditional Slovak dishes. Enjoy an evening stroll through the quiet town before heading back to your accommodations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚆One-way ticket (local transport) | $1-2 |
| 🏠Rent (1 bedroom in city center, monthly) | $450-700 |
| 🛒Groceries (monthly for essentials) | $200-350 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town center with Renaissance and Gothic charm
- Gateway to the High Tatras and serene countryside
- Friendly locals, laid-back atmosphere, and affordable dining
- Rich cultural heritage and proximity to nearby Spiš landmarks
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale entertainment options
- Some services may close earlier in winter or off-season
- Public transport to more remote trails can require planning
- Smaller selection of high-end dining compared to bigger cities
- "Dobrý deň" - Hello / Good day
- "Prosím" - Please
- "Ďakujem" - Thank you
- "Koľko to stojí?" - How much is this?
- "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hovoríte po anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
- "Prosím, ukážete mi cestu na..." - Please show me the way to...
Places to Visit in Kežmarok
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful Renaissance façades, an ornate town hall, and a lively street scene provide classic postcard-worthy compositions at any time of day.
Rising above the town, the ruins offer dramatic silhouettes against the sky, especially during golden hour with valley views.
Riverside paths and bridges give tranquil waterline shots with the town’s old buildings as a backdrop.
A vantage point that captures the town nestled in valley hills, with the High Tatras visible on clear days.
Food in Kežmarok
Kežmarok Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato dumplings with bryndza cheese and crisp bacon; a quintessential Slovak staple often found on menus in Kežmarok.
Must-Try!
Hearty cabbage soup with smoked meat or sausage, perfect for cooler days.
Potato flatbreads typically served with duck or other toppings; great for a rustic Slovak meal.
Dumplings stuffed with potatoes, cheese, or fruit; a versatile option for vegetarians when prepared without meat.
Sweet rolled dough ribbons with poppy seeds or sugar; a traditional dessert option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market stalls offering fresh produce, dairy, bakery items, and regional specialties; ideal for tasting local produce and picking up snackable treats.
Casual options around the old town area offering grilled sausages, roasted chestnuts, and sweet pastries such as chimney cake during busy periods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common when meeting someone. Use formal address (‘pane’/‘pani’ for Mr./Ms.) until invited to use first names.
Dress modestly in religious sites and town venues; keep noise gentle in residential areas, especially in the evenings.
Respect private property, ask before photographing people, and take turns when queuing in shops. Recycling and cleanliness are valued in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Kežmarok
Ensure a smooth experience
In Slovakia, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants if service is good. Some establishments may include a service charge; check your bill first.
Cards (debit/credit) and contactless payments are widely accepted in Kežmarok. Cash (EUR) is still handy for small merchants and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; occasional afternoon showers. Ideal for city strolling, hikes in the foothills, and outdoor dining in the town’s square.
Mild to cool temperatures with colorful foliage; often misty mornings. Great for scenic walks and photography with warm light.
Cold temperatures with snowfall common; nearby resorts offer skiing and sledding. Expect cozy indoor scenes and festive seasonal markets.
Cool to mild temperatures with many showers; flowers begin to bloom along trails and in town gardens.
Kežmarok at Night
Hiking in Kežmarok
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular access point for easy and intermediate hikes in the High Tatras foothills with family-friendly routes and alpine scenery.
Longer, more challenging valley treks into the Tatras for experienced hikers seeking dramatic landscapes.
A scenic trail near Kežmarok offering forest paths and valley views suitable for a half-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Kežmarok by plane.
Nearest international-style airport serving the region; convenient for travelers flying into northern Slovakia and heading to Kežmarok.
Larger regional airport with broader connections; a longer drive but useful for flights from more destinations.
Main international gateway in the south; farther from Kežmarok but an option for broader European flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A Slovak community with families, retirees, and small businesses; a mix of traditional and modern influences in daily life.
Visitors from Slovakia and neighboring countries attracted by history, nature, and easy access to the Tatras.
People commuting to and from Poprad and other Spiš towns for work, shopping, and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed across Slovakia, with local clubs and youth programs visible in towns and suburbs.
A popular sport during winter; local leagues and nearby arenas host games and public skating sessions.
Kežmarok’s location provides access to the High Tatras resorts for alpine skiing and snowboarding in winter.
A staple activity in the warmer months, with routes ranging from easy lakeside strolls to challenging mountain treks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kežmarok.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants can offer vegetarian soups, dumplings with cheese, or mushroom dishes. Ask for bryndza substitution or veggie mains; many places will prepare simple vegetable plates and salads.
Gluten-free options exist in larger eateries; request breads and dumplings without flour and confirm with staff about sauce thickeners or cross-contamination.
Dishes can be prepared dairy-free with vegetable oils and non-dairy substitutions; inform staff about lactose intolerance when ordering soups or sauces.