Framed by several European countries, Slovakian culture has been both influenced by its neighbors and its own history. For centuries, it was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and today, traditional Slovakian music and dance are popularly celebrated in the many events the country hosts each year.
Modern Slovakian culture is also reflected in the arts, with a growing number of internationally-renowned artists and musicians hailing from this interesting locale. What’s more, sports are enjoyed by many, particularly ice hockey and football. Try to take in a game or two while you’re visiting… the atmosphere is electric.
Trencin Castle is one of the largest and most well-preserved castles in Central Europe. The castle is situated on a strategic hill above the city of Trencin in Slovakia. It was built in the 11th century and served as a fortification for the Kingdom of Hungary. Today, Trencin Castle is a national cultural monument and a popular tourist destination.
Slovakia has some of the most remedial waters in the world, which have been used for centuries to treat ailments of every nature. With over 1,300 mineral springs across the country, there are plenty of aqua-centric areas to dip into and unwind, both to soothe your muscles and relax your mind.
The capital of Slovakia is a lively and alluring place, located on the Danube River. Venture straight to its UNESCO-stamped old town for your fill of beautiful architecture before disappearing down one of the colorful alleyways that link up the city. Bratislava Castle is extraordinary, as well. Perched on top of a hill, it was established in the 9th century and today houses several museums and galleries.
Košice has been voted the best city in Europe several times, with sights like the St. Elisabeth Cathedral, State Theatre, and “singing fountain” putting it firmly on the map. For the best panoramas of the city, go to Tower Park, where you can ride a glass elevator up to the top of the tower for views without equal.
Komárno is an exquisite small town, made popular for its pastoral scenery and wide range of attractions. Its old townis a great place to start your exploration, in easy walking distance from both the Town Hall and Danube Museum. Additionally, there are loads of great eateries and bars here, where you can find many Central European specialities to fill up on.
With thousands of caves to explore, Slovakia is one of the most visited countries anywhere for spelunking and caving. Slovak Karst comprises one of the largest cave systems in Europe – a maze of tunnels and chambers formed over millions of years. Ochtinská Aragonite Cave is especially noteworthy, too: it’s the biggest aragonite cave globally. Grab your torch and take a look…
You’ll be bowled over by the brilliance of the Bratislava region. From the capital of Bratislava itself to more tucked-away treasures, like Devin Castle and the Small Carpathians mountains, you can find endless ways to entertain yourself in this small yet sensational place. Zahorie is also a great spot for outdoor lovers, filled with forestry and vineyards.
Trnava is located in southwest Slovakia, and is one of the most important regions in the country for getting to know Slovak culture. Popular landmarks include Trnava Castle and the St. Elisabeth Cathedral, though it’s also known for its traditional folk architecture, which can be seen (and admired) in the many wooden houses and churches that dot the landscape.
In western Slovakia lies Nitra, one of the country’s most visited regions. You’ll find the 9th-century Nitra Castle here, along with the relaxing thermal swimming pools of Štúrovo and the impressive Pribina monument, which commemorates the first Slavic prince to have settled in the region.
See one of the oldest castles in Europe in Trenčín – Trenčín Castle – which has roots in the Roman Empire. In this region, you can also discover Slovenský Raj National Park, which offers stunning views of waterfalls, cliffs, and forests, and contains one of Europe’s biggest ice caves. Perfect for the thrillseeker in you.
Just when you think you’ve seen it all, Žilina proves you wrong. This region harbors too many breathtaking attractions to count, from the exemplary 14th-century Gothic church of St. James to Vršatec Castle, which gazes out across the horizons of Považie from a stunning throne in forestry-covered mountains.
Some of the best hiking and skiing in Slovakia is delivered in this region, so if you’re looking for an active vacation, it’s ideal. From the city of Banská Bystrica, you can easily reach the skiing area of Park Snow Donovaly and the Serpentine Nature Trail that leads you towards some astounding viewpoints. With wellness spas, small towns and other landmarks close by, you’re in for a great time.
With towering mountains lying to the west and the exciting city of Košice to the east, the Košice region is a great place to visit if you’re looking to merge nature and culture into one, well-rounded trip. Consider excursions to the towns of Spišská Nová Ves and Spišské Podhradie while you’re here, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
This popular region bordering Poland and Ukraine features the Carpathian Mountains, as well as many historical sites like monasteries, open-air museums and wooden churches. Those with a penchant for art will be delighted to find pop-art works from Andy Warhol based here, in the small town of Medzilaborce.
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