Things To Do
in Stará Ľubovňa
Stará Ľubovňa is a historic town in Slovakia's Prešov Region, perched above the Poprad River with rolling countryside around it. The centerpiece is the medieval Stará Ľubovňa Castle, which dominates the skyline and houses exhibits that tell the region's story. Within the town, cobbled streets, a picturesque square, and traditional wooden architecture offer a glimpse of Slovak rural life.
Nearby nature and the Spiš region provide outdoor adventures, culture-rich sites, and easy day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the picturesque town of Stará Ľubovňa and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while soaking in the charming atmosphere. Take a stroll through the heart of the town and admire the well-preserved architecture.
Visit the Stará Ľubovňa Castle, a stunning fortress that offers insight into the region's rich history. Explore the exhibitions inside the castle and take in the panoramic views from the top. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant where you can savor traditional Slovak dishes.
After a fulfilling day of exploration, enjoy dinner at a local eatery. Spend the evening mingling with locals at a nearby tavern or take a quiet walk under the stars. End your first day with a nightcap while reflecting on your adventures.
Head to the High Tatras for a guided hike through the breathtaking landscapes. Experience the tranquility of nature as you trek along well-marked trails. Breakfast is packed for you to enjoy amid stunning views.
Discover the beauty of mountain lakes and lush forests during your hike, stopping at various viewpoints. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the majestic peaks. The fresh mountain air will rejuvenate you for the remainder of the day.
Return to Stará Ľubovňa and indulge in a hearty dinner at a traditional Slovak restaurant. Share stories from the day's adventure with fellow travelers over a warm meal. Take a leisurely evening stroll along the town's quaint streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Hotel or hostel per night | $40-70 |
| 🚆Local transportation (single ride) | $1-3 |
| 🧺Groceries for a few days | $10-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and castle views
- Scenic nature nearby
- Compact town center close to sights
- Friendly locals and easy navigation
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- Some areas have cobblestones and steep streets
- Limited public transport connections beyond town
- "Dobrý deň" - Hello / Good day
- "Prosím" - Please
- "Ďakujem" - Thank you
- "Koľko to stojí?" - How much is this?
- "Hovoríte po anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
- "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pomoc!" - Help!
Places to Visit in Stará Ľubovňa
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping view over the town and river valley from the castle hill.
Colorful facades and historic architecture ideal for daytime and blue-hour photography.
Tree-lined banks and reflections on calm days; great for sunset shots.
Food in Stará Ľubovňa
Stará Ľubovňa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato dumplings with bryndza sheep cheese and often topped with fried bacon.
Must-Try!
Hearty sauerkraut soup, usually with sausages or smoked meat.
Potato flatbreads served as a side or stuffed with fillings like meat or jam.
Sweet boiled dumplings rolled in ground poppy seeds or sprinkled with sugar.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering local cheeses, smoked meats, breads, and fresh produce.
Lángos and pastries from local vendors around the square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; greet with a polite hello, especially when entering shops.
Modest dress for churches; speak calmly in public and queue politely.
Ask for permission when photographing people or private spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Stará Ľubovňa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common; leave about 5-10% for good service or round up the bill.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; ATMs available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with budding trees; variable showers; best for city walks and blossom photography.
Warm days with long daylight hours; occasional thunderstorms; outdoor dining and events are common.
Cooler air and vibrant foliage; great for scenic drives, walks, and forest hikes.
Cold and snowy conditions; festive markets and nearby winter sports; dress warmly.
Stará Ľubovňa at Night
Hiking in Stará Ľubovňa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes with scenic outlooks over the town and surrounding countryside.
Gentle to moderate forest walks offering rural scenery and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Stará Ľubovňa by plane.
Nearby small international airport serving domestic and some international flights; about 70-100 km away by road.
Major international gateway about 150-180 km away; road connections via motorway and regional trains.
Further afield but accessible for some routes; usually used for long-haul travel with rail or car transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the region, with a rural and small-town culture.
A small Roma minority presence in some areas.
Seasonal travelers and residents from neighboring towns bring a mix of cultures.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in schools and local clubs.
Common in winter; fans attend matches in regional arenas.
Winter sports available in nearby mountain areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stará Ľubovňa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options include mushroom dishes, dumplings, and salads; inform the kitchen about dairy-free needs; many places can adapt dishes to be vegetarian-friendly.