Best places to visit in Slovakia
Slovakia may look just like a small country located in the centre of Europe. However, despite its size, Slovakia is full of wonderful destinations that you must visit.
Today at Linguarte, we bring you a list of the ten best places to visit in Slovakia.
Number 10: Orava Castle
Slovakia may be small but it has a huge number of castles and palaces of all kinds.
One of the most beautiful is the Orava Castle.
Located in the north of Slovakia, 3 hours from the capital Bratislava, this castle mixes a variety of architectural styles from Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance.
A tour of its museum will leave you amazed by the large number of ancient artifacts and architectural gems it houses.
In addition, you will be able to cross its different walls, doors and defences until you reach the peak of the hill. These elements show why this castle has never been conquered.
Number 9: Bardejov
If you want to visit a medieval-style and very picturesque town, then Bardejov is your destination.
The historic centre of Bardejov will make you travel to another era due to its well-preserved houses that surround the Church of Sv. Aegidius (St. Giles)
Also, you can look at the old synagogue that remembers the Jewish past of this site.
This town is surrounded by fortifications that are more than 6 centuries old. Outside of them, you can also find some beautiful wooden churches.
Number 8: Vlkolínec
The village of Vlkolínec is one of the last folklore villages in Central Europe.
Walking through its small streets, you will be able to admire the traditional houses built of logs as well as its baroque chapel.
This site emanates a special energy that will make you travel back in time in Slovakia.
In its surroundings the atmosphere is just as special with forests ideal for hiking and relaxing a lot.
Number 7: “Slovak Paradise” National Park
This natural park is not like any other. In it, you will find a wide variety of natural wonders everywhere you look.
You will be able to explore deep canyons, valleys, rivers and waterfalls.
This is how you can see waterfalls like the Závojový waterfall for which you have to walk a path with stairs and chains.
Also, you can visit the Dobšiná Ice Cave, which has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage Site. This cave will leave you stunned by its blue ice formations in its more than 1 kilometre route.
Number 6: Košice
Being the second largest city in Slovakia, Kosice shows its great influence due to its rich history spanning from the Hungarians, Turks, Czechs and Slovaks.
You will be able to verify this when you walk through its historic centre, from its 14th century Cathedral to the rest of the palaces and churches that fill the city.
And if you want to rest and enjoy some music, you can admire its musical fountain which provides a relaxing and special atmosphere.
Number 5: Spiš Castle.
The ruins of the Spiš Castle are located in the east of the country and it is one of the largest castles in all of Central Europe.
These ruins are at the top of a hill so its walls and fortifications are visible from afar.
It is one of the most visited sites in the country and it is possible to visit all of its corners. In addition, during different parts of the year there are large events.
Number 4: Levoča
This small town in the Prešov region will leave you in awe due to its historic centre.
Its numerous houses and buildings highlight baroque, renaissance and gothic architectural influences.
The most picturesque site is undoubtedly its central square where you can see the Basilica of St. James, the Old Town Hall and the Evangelical Lutheran Church.
This site is perfect for a quick visit connected with a visit to Spiš Castle due to its proximity.
Number 3: Banská Štiavnica
If you want to visit a fully preserved medieval city, then you cannot miss Banská Štiavnica.
The charm of Banská Štiavnica is found in the combination of its buildings that will take you back in time and its wonderful nature with forests and beautiful lakes.
Banská Štiavnica was once an important mining site and was the third largest city within the Kingdom of Hungary.
Without a doubt, you will enjoy walking through its small and steep streets which draw the shape of the mountains around.
Number 2: High Tatras
At any time of the year, High Tatras is a must-see destination for sightseeing in Slovakia.
High Tatras contain the highest mountains in the country ideal for hiking, cycling or skiing.
Its mountainous diversity allows the enjoyment of unique and unforgettable views in its entirety. In addition, it has a diversity of flora and fauna, among which are bears, lynxes, mountain goats, wolves and foxes.
High Tatra has eleven peaks above 2,500 metres, the highest being Gerlachovský štít, at 2,655 m.
Regardless of which part of the High Tatras you decide to visit, you will be blown away by its majestic mountains.
Number 1: Bratislava
Being the capital of Slovakia, it holds the title of being the only capital of a country in the world that borders two countries (Austria and Hungary).
In it, it’s possible to observe a very fascinating diversity that reveals each period of its history.
Thus, in its streets you can see medieval, Gothic and Baroque buildings coexisting with communist and modern architecture.
In the same way, its nature mixes its proximity to the banks of the Danube river, a large number of lakes, as well as the Carpathian mountains.
All this makes Bratislava an eclectic city with a variety of activities for all tastes and ages. Its restaurants offer the best of unique Slovak food and its cafes and bars endless fun.
Its easy access from Vienna or Budapest by land or sea makes Bratislava an unmissable destination for all tourists who want to discover a jewel in the centre of Europe.