9 experiences you shouldn’t miss in Slovakia

16.07.2024 - 18:40 / lonelyplanet.com

Jul 16, 2024 • 7 min read

An independent country only since 1993, Slovakia nonetheless is steeped in history, evident in its ancient towns, medieval castles and deep-rooted traditions.

With just over 5 million citizens, the diminutive nation bursts with lesser-known treasures that promise to surprise and delight even the most seasoned travelers. From subterranean wonders to majestic mountains, fairy-tale castles to inspiring national parks, Slovakia offers a wealth of adventures and unique cultural experiences.

Here’s our list of the best things to do in this Central European gem.

Its name translating to “Slovak Paradise National Park,” this reserve is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Its network of hiking trails meanders through dense fir forests, filling the air with a sweet fragrance and a touch of woodiness that reminds you of your Christmas tree. The trails weave through deep gorges and past cascading waterfalls, often requiring you to navigate ladders and chains, adding an element of adventure to your trek.

Detour: While exploring the park, don’t miss the nearby Dobšinská Ice Cave, one of the largest such caverns in Europe, where glistening ice formations and ethereal blue hues create a surreal underground world. Open from mid-May to mid-September, this cave offers a cool retreat from the summer heat.

Adjoining both Austria and Hungary, Bratislava is the only capital in the world that borders two other sovereign states. Yet the variety of structures within its city limits make this city unique.

In the Old Town (Staré Mesto), cobblestone streets lead to architectural delights like the Gothic St Martin’s Cathedral, the art nouveau Blue Church and the neoclassical Primate’s Palace. While exploring the historical landmarks of the Main Square (Hlavné Námestie), enjoy stunning views of the city from the Old Town Hall tower (Stará Radnica). After all the sightseeing, seek out a traditional restaurant to tuck into traditional Slovak dishes like bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese) and kapustnica (sauerkraut soup).

Detour: The UFO Observation Deck on the SNP Bridge boasts the best panoramic views of the old town, Bratislava Castle and the Danube. You can savor fine dining in its restaurant while waiting for the sunset; the adventurous will love the thrilling 85m(180ft)-high skywalk.

Slovakia beckons medieval and Renaissance architecture enthusiasts with its wealth of castles, chateaux and manor houses. Dating back to the 12th century, Spiš Castle in the east is one of Central Europe’s largest and most impressive complexes.

With its fairy-tale ambience, Bojnice Castle is especially enchanting when covered in snow in winter. Lush gardens surround this romantic, neo-Gothic pile; it even boasts a zoo,