Travel in Slovakia

“Little Big City” proclaims the sign on the side of Bratislava’s trams. It’s certainly right about the first, Slovakia’s capital is dinky compared with its neighbours on the Danube – Vienna, the grand old dame of European capitals, ninety minutes to the west by boat, and exuberant Budapest, three hours to the southeast by train.

The European Commission has introduced a new visa “cascade” regime for Indian nationals applying for Schengen visas in India. This regime looks to offer longer-term, multi-entry Schengen visas, based on the applicant’s travel history.

Located on Spain’s Mediterranean coast to the south of Valencia, Villajoyosa has been named the “Best Hidden Gem in Europe 2024,” according to European Best Destinations, which has just published one of the most anticipated lists of the year. The best secret destinations in Europe is a ranking that recognizes hidden corners, spots far from the crowds, beautiful villages lost in time, and places where some of Europe’s natural beauty can be experienced by simply taking a short walk.

Google said Wednesday that it is releasing new features that share options for traveling in ways that are more environmentally friendly.

If last summer is any indication—and bookings for 2024 suggest that it is—parts of Europe will be as inundated with crowds as they were in 2023. The best way to avoid the hordes is to go somewhere off the beaten path, seeking out corners of Europe free of mass tourism. Here are five European trips for those seeking a respite from the madding crowd.

Chop is an important passenger railway hub, and there will be a guaranteed transfer to onward services operated by Ukrainian Railways.

Stepping into the lobby of the Gellért Baths in Budapest is like stepping back in time. Having resisted the temptation to look at photos of the baths online, I was thrilled at my first sight of the spectacular art nouveau interior.After changing, my husband and I did a few laps of the main indoor pool, admiring the intricately decorated columns surrounding us. Afterwards, we explored the building’s labyrinth of geothermal pools before emerging on to the enormous roof terrace. There, we swam in the heated outdoor pool under bright sunshine.

When they debut in 2025, Riviera River Cruises’ two newest ships will sail the Danube and Douro rivers in Europe.

“Throw the keys through the kiosk’s open window. We’ll get the car when we open later”: Those slightly unorthodox drop-off instructions I once received from a Hertz manager in Croatia illustrate some of the differences U.S. travelers might encounter when renting a car abroad.

In the EU, all employees are entitled to a minimum of four weeks’ paid holiday per year.

It’s full steam ahead for rail travel in 2024 as yet another new route is set to link up key destinations in Europe.

Train lovers and travelers concerned about their carbon footprint have a lot to choose from this year — especially in Europe. While some European governments are mulling short-haul flight bans, many passengers are already opting for rail, where new connections are numerous.

Six countries now have the world's most powerful passport, according to the 2024 Henley Passport Index — but the US isn't one of them.

Four European countries now have the world’s most powerful passports.

Paris to Venice. Barcelona to Amsterdam. Brussels to Bratislava, Slovakia. European cities could see a flurry of new rail connections in the next few years, as governments and private investors respond to climate concerns and strive to keep up with strong demand for cross-border passenger rail traffic.

Discover the incredible world of Sweden’s ICEHOTEL 34 this winter. Picture this: 500 tonnes of ice, equivalent to 10 Olympic swimming pools of the finest "snis" – a blend of ice and snow – meticulously crafted over six intense weeks. The journey began in spring, as ice blocks were harvested from the Torne River and stored in an ice warehouse in Jukkasjärvi, awaiting their transformation into a magical experience. The unique creation has emerged from the creative minds of 32 artists, spanning 14 countries from around the globe.

As options for the traditional chalet ski break have dwindled and prices risen, venturing to Europe’s far corners and beyond for a ski break can reap rewards. Costs are often lower, while luxury accommodation can be similarly priced to budget options in mainstream European ski resorts. As well as being potentially cheaper, skiing in territory off the beaten track can offer a rich cultural experience, plus better flight routes, less crowded slopes, sunnier days and a friendlier welcome.

Flight tickets to Athens are available on Smartwings and Czech Airlines websites and at flight ticket vendors.

Moving to a new country can be daunting, especially if you don’t speak the language.

Skiing has long had a reputation as the sport of the ultra-wealthy, and this year it is set to be even more expensive as resorts hike up prices. However, if you look beyond the big-name slopes you’ll find plenty of alternative affordable options. You can also save money and do your bit for the environment by taking the train instead of flying.

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By 2024 additional accommodation facilities are expected to open in the city, particularly in the luxury segment, offering almost 2,000 hotel rooms and over 18,298 square feet of meeting space. […]