Reisgids Slowakije: essentiële tips

1. What are the top attractions in Bratislava?
Top attractions in Bratislava include Bratislava Castle, offering panoramic views of the Danube River, and the Old Town with its charming streets and St. Michael’s Gate. Visit the Blue Church (St. Elizabeth’s Church) for its unique Art Nouveau design, explore Devin Castle nearby, and stroll along the Danube promenade.

2. What is the best time to visit Slovakia?
The best time to visit Slovakia is spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) for mild weather, ideal for exploring Bratislava and hiking in the High Tatras. Summer (July to August) is great for outdoor activities and festivals, while winter (December to February) offers skiing in the Tatras and festive Christmas markets in Bratislava.

3. Do I need a visa to travel to Slovakia?
Slovakia is part of the EU and Schengen Area. EU citizens don’t need a visa. US, Canadian, and Australian citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period under Schengen rules. Other nationalities may need a Schengen visa—check with the Slovak embassy for specific requirements.

4. What are the best things to do in the High Tatras?
In the High Tatras, hike to Lomnický Štít or Gerlachovský Štít for stunning views, or take the cable car to Štrbské Pleso for a scenic lake walk. Ski in resorts like Jasná or Tatranská Lomnica during winter, and visit the Tatra National Park Museum in Tatranská Lomnica to learn about the region’s wildlife and history.

5. Is Slovakia expensive to travel to?
Slovakia is quite affordable. Daily costs average $50–$100 per person for accommodation, food, and transport. A mid-range trip can cost $600–$1,000 for a week. Bratislava is slightly pricier, but rural areas like the High Tatras or Banská Štiavnica offer great value, with budget meals and lodging options.

6. What are traditional Slovak foods to try?
Try bryndzové halušky, Slovakia’s national dish of potato dumplings with sheep cheese and bacon, and kapustnica, a hearty cabbage soup often served at Christmas. Enjoy lokše (potato pancakes) with goose liver or poppy seeds, and for dessert, savor šúľance (sweet dumplings with poppy seeds). Pair your meal with a glass of slivovica (plum brandy) or local Tokaj wine.

7. What are the best castles to visit in Slovakia?
Top castles include Spiš Castle, one of the largest in Central Europe and a UNESCO site, and Orava Castle, perched dramatically above the Orava River. Visit Bojnice Castle, known for its fairy-tale appearance and ghost festival, and Čachtice Castle, linked to the infamous Elizabeth Báthory. Trenčín Castle, with its Roman inscription, is also a must-see.

8. What are the best natural attractions in Slovakia?
Top natural attractions include the High Tatras for hiking and skiing, the Slovak Paradise National Park with its ladders and waterfalls, and the Dobšinská Ice Cave, a UNESCO site. Visit the Low Tatras for scenic trails, or relax in the thermal springs of Bešeňová or Piešťany, known for their healing properties.

9. What are the best festivals in Slovakia?
Top festivals include the Bratislava Music Festival (September to October) for classical music, Pohoda Festival in Trenčín (July) for indie and alternative music, and the International Film Festival in Bratislava (November). The Východná Folklore Festival (July) celebrates traditional Slovak dance and music, while Christmas markets in Bratislava and Košice light up the winter.

10. How can I travel around Slovakia?
Slovakia has an efficient train network connecting Bratislava, Košice, and Poprad, with Slovak Railways (ŽSR) offering reliable service. Buses cover smaller towns like Banská Štiavnica or Levoča. Renting a car is ideal for exploring the High Tatras or rural areas. In Bratislava, trams, buses, and trolleybuses make city travel easy.