Slovakia
Discover the charm of Slovakia, a hidden gem in Central Europe with a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty. From its dramatic High Tatras and serene Low Tatras to the captivating medieval towns of Bratislava and Košice, Slovakia offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. Explore the stunning Spiš Castle and the picturesque Orava Castle, each a testament to the country’s storied past.
Slovakia’s history is as fascinating as its landscapes. Once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Slovakia gained independence in 1993, and today, it beautifully blends its historical heritage with modern attractions. Dive into Slovak cuisine, enjoy vibrant folk traditions, and experience the renowned hospitality of its people. Slovakia invites you to explore its enchanting castles, lush countryside, and lively cities—a destination where adventure and history come together for an unforgettable journey.
Things to See and Do in Slovakia
Bratislava Castle
Old Town (Staré Mesto)
St. Martin's Cathedral
Michael's Gate
Primate's Palace
UFO Observation Deck
Spiš Castle
Orava Castle
Bratislava City Walls
Devin Castle
Červený Kameň Castle
Kežmarok Castle
High Tatras Mountains
Low Tatras Mountains
Slovak Paradise National Park
Danube River Cruises
Bratislava Forest Park
Váh River Valley
TYPICAL COSTS WHEN TRAVELING IN SLOVAKIA
Accommodation – Hostels start at 17-20 EUR for dorm-like arrangements and for a private room it starts from 20-35 EUR. During the off-season for a budget hotel, you can expect to pay 25-40 EUR per night outside of Bratislava. Airbnb is an excellent option which ranges from 50-80 EUR per night for a room, or if you wish to rent an entire house, they start at around 90 EUR per night.
(Visit Hotels.com or Airbnb.com for accommodations)
Food – Eating locally produced food will reduce your costs. Slovakia is known for its main staples: pork, cabbage, and potato dishes. Stick to eating sausage, garlic soup, and you can expect to pay 12-15 EUR. A café that serves traditional dishes will cost 15-20 EUR. A glass of beer will cost 3-5 EUR. A cup of ice cream that consisted of two scoops is between 2.5-3 EUR.
(browse Trip Advisor to find best places to dine)
Public Transportation – Public transportation is widely available in larger cities, costing around 1.00 EUR per 30-minute ride. Day passes are available in some cities for around 4.50 EUR.
Buses – 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 – Although the train is not the least expensive route, it is much faster. 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.
Activities – Visiting historical sites around the country generally costs 10-20 EUR for a ticket. Free Walking Tours are available in major cities as well as paid guided trips. If visiting in the winter, you can hit the slopes where a lift ticket is approximately 50 EUR. Hiking to some of Slovakia’s popular caves cost 9 EUR to enter.
Suggested daily budget – The average daily budget should be approximately $140 per person, including hotel, transportation, meals, and sightseeing. A week’s vacation for two people costs roughly $1,960 staying at mid-range hotels
Money Saving Tips
1
Stick to eating traditional Slovakian food such as soups, dumplings, or schnitzel.
2
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.
3
Explore destinations that are off the beaten path. Unfortunately, most tourists flock to the most popular sights making prices more expensive.
4
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.
5
Visit off-season as the prices are higher in July and August.
6
Use the public transportation services when getting around Slovakia versus using taxis.
What can I expect from Slovakia?
- Language: The official language is Slovak.
- Currency:The currency is the Euro. One Euro = $1.11
- Plugs: The plugs are Type E. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter and using a converter for hair tools.
- Safety:Slovakia is generally a safe country to travel. I recommend always purchasing travel insurance, especially if you plan to do outdoor activities. Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your passport and ID. Always let someone know where you are.
- Vaccinations Needed:No specific vaccination requirements for entry into Slovakia for travelers from most countries. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your healthcare provider for any recommended vaccinations or health precautions based on your itinerary. Please keep up to date with Tripsguard or visit the government
2-Day Adventure to Bratislava
Explore the medieval charm and vibrant culture of Bratislava, Slovakia, in just two days. From ancient castles and cathedrals to quirky sculptures and stunning river views, this guide will lead you through the must-see sights and hidden gems of this enchanting city.
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August 24, 2024
