Top 5 Places You Should Visit in Slovakia

Slovakia - a country where there are as many as 180 castles, which is considered a record among European countries.

Despite its compact size, Slovakia is also home to 9 national parks and 14 protected landscape areas. Furthermore, it boasts over 6,000 underground caves and more than one and a half thousand mineral water springs.

Your journey to Slovakia has every chance of becoming unforgettable and bringing you joy from discovering its exceptional nature, architecture, and wonderful people.

Today, we want to introduce you to this incredible Central European country more closely and tell you about five places you should definitely visit during your trip to Slovakia.

Bratislava

Photo: Bratislava, Source: https://www.welcometobratislava.eu

Bratislava - the capital of Slovakia, is a must-visit for every tourist. This charming city is known for its atmospheric old town, where cozy cobblestone streets weave through unique medieval architecture. You can stroll along the banks of the Danube and admire the iconic Bratislava Castle, perched high on a hill. From there, you'll enjoy an unforgettable panoramic view of the city. Additionally, treating yourself to traditional Slovak cuisine in one of Bratislava's colorful restaurants, where true masters of their craft will delight you with the finest dishes, is highly recommended.

High Tatras National Park

Photo: Tatranský národný park, Source: https://www.tatry.sk

The High Tatras National Park is a true gem for nature lovers who appreciate breathtaking landscapes. Located in the northern part of Slovakia, this natural wonderland hides true treasures - majestic mountain peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests. Here, you'll find hiking trails of varying difficulty levels and routes for those who love active recreation. Whether you're an experienced hiker or simply enjoy leisurely walks, the High Tatras will offer everyone their slice of happiness. A must-visit spot in your journey should be Strbske Pleso, a stunning glacial lake.

Spis Castle

Photo: Spišský hrad, Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org

Spis Castle, the largest castle in Slovakia, is an impressive medieval monument that should undoubtedly be included in your itinerary. Situated near the town of Spisske Podhradie, this castle complex is considered one of the largest in all of Europe and is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Here, you can explore the well-preserved ruins, ascend the castle's towers, and savor breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The grandeur, history, and architecture of Spis Castle are truly awe-inspiring, making it an exciting stop for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Slovak Paradise National Park

Photo: Slovak Paradise National Park, Source: https://en.wikipedia.org

Slovak Paradise National Park is located in the eastern part of Slovakia and offers its visitors a unique natural landscape filled with deep gorges, dense forests, and an intricate network of multi-level hiking trails, including stairs, bridges, and wooden walkways. Additionally, hikers are invited to visit the remarkable Krasnagorska Cave, which features a unique karst formation in the form of a colossal stalagmite reaching 34 meters in height, recognized by the Guinness World Records as the tallest stalagmite formed in a zone with a temperate climate.

In the park, there is another famous gorge - Sucha Bela. Here, you can take a walk along a path that leads you through narrow canyons and oases of lush greenery, providing unforgettable impressions.

Banska Stiavnica

Photo: Banská Štiavnica, Source: https://whc.unesco.org

Banska Stiavnica is a historic town that transports you back to the mining glory days of Slovakia. This town, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and mining history dating back to the Celtic period in the 3rd century.

While wandering through the town, take note of the Old Castle, visit the Mining Museum, and leisurely explore its charming streets. The unique atmosphere and cultural heritage of Banska Stiavnica make it a true hidden tourist treasure of Slovakia.