Slovakia is a landlocked country located in Central Europe. Slovakia is quickly gaining global recognition in the tourism industry thanks to its graceful mountains, stunning lakes and castles, quaint cultural offerings, and the general fairytale charm of the country.
1. Visit Bratislava
Stradling the Danube River in southwest Slovakia, Bratislava is Slovakia's largest and capital city. The city is one of the quietest and most low-key capitals in Europe. The city, a maze of low arches, cobbled streets, and tiny but grand squares, is small enough to explore in a day but still large enough to keep your interest for a long weekend.
The Old Town Bratislava showcases the skill of Slovak town planners, who put together palaces, shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs, museums, and churches into a few blocks, forming a city. The Františkánske Square is a perfect place to sit and unwind while in the city.
2. Tour Banská Štiavnica
Banská Štiavnica is one of Europe's most beautiful towns where medieval history meets natural grandeur. Packed with green hills and pastel-colored buildings, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was the largest gold and silver source in the Hungarian Empire during the Middle Ages. Today, the city boasts of picturesque sceneries and lovely gems that give insights into Slovak culture and architecture.
3. Hike the High Tatras
The High Tatras mountains, located at the border of Slovakia and Poland, are a major destination for tourists in Slovakia. The highest peak, pyramid-shaped Gerlach, at 2655 m high, is the tallest mountain in northern and eastern central Europe. This is a perfect place for hikers and climbers, and if fortunate, you may spot a lynx, wild boar, brown bear, or Tatra chamois(goat-antelope).
4. See the Slovak Paradise National Park
Slovakia has nine national parks, with Slovak Paradies being one of the most popular. Located in eastern Slovakia and covering an area of 197 square kilometers, the park is characterized by caves, waterfalls, gorges, stunning landscapes, and plenty of flora and fauna. Activities that you may engage in while in the park include bird watching, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities.
Popular attractions in the park include the Dobšinská ice cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Belá Canyon, the Hornád Canyon, and the Kysel Gorge.
5. Košice
The beautiful town of Košice was once a crucial trade hub for the Hungarian Empire. Today, this town center forms a kilometer-long promenade studded with ancient buildings, churches, cafes, and restaurants. Landmarks in the city include the Gothic Cathedral of St. Elisabeth, the East Slovak Museum, and the palatial District House.
On warm days when the sun is out, locals come out in groups to enjoy the sun and listen to music from the musical fountain in the park near the State Theatre. Visit this picturesque town to enjoy views and learn its history.
6. Take a Scenic Train Ridej
This might be one of the most underrated yet enchanting things to do in Slovakia. Catch a regular train, score the window seat, and embark on a scenic journey to your chosen destination. The easiest and most scenic train route is from Bratislava to Kosice through Trencin, Zilina, and Poprad. Be amazed by the views of the Vah River and the stunning mountainous landscape of northern Slovakia, including the majestic High Tatras.
Another recommended route is a train from Margecany near Kosice to Dobšinská Ľadová Jaskyňa (Dobšiná Ice Cave) through Slovak Paradise National Park.