Slovakia is a dream getaway for outdoor enthusiasts. It is one of those countries in Europe that most of us know little about. And it’s no mystery why! If you are a fan of nature in all its glory, the country is home to numerous national parks, hiking trails, and even caves to cater to your adventurous needs. There’s also plenty of room for history enthusiasts and gastronomy lovers. Want to see how you make the most of your time in Slovakia? Here are the Top 10 must-see things this vibrant country offers.
Visiting Ancient Castles
Slovakia has over 100 castles spread across the ruins and everywhere in between. The castles combine the Renaissance and Gothic Romanesque styles. Don't forget to visit Bojnice, one of Europe's most pronounced and most visited castles.
Another renowned castle is the neo-Gothic Orava Castle, featured in the 1922 vampire film Nosferatu. Get your fill of fairytale castles and get lost in the dreamy palaces of Slovakia.
Skiing through the Mountains
Alpine skiing is one of the more popular recreational activities in Slovakia. With the snow-covered mountains and picture-perfect slopes, locals enjoy visiting the ski resorts, primarily in the Low Tatras and High Tatras mountain ranges.
Stepping Back Through Time
Go back in time with the famous open-air museums that display exceptional folk architecture. The Museum of Slovak Village is the largest ethnographic open-air exposition that shows what life was like in rural Slovakia in the early 19th century. Live shows and events happen yearly.
Get a Taste of Slovakia
You must try Slovak cuisine. It includes a lot of potatoes, dairy products, sauerkraut, and wild mushrooms. Potatoes are added to most meals, making traditional delicacies such as Bryndzové halušky and Lokše.
A Walk in the Park
The most renowned park would be Slovak Paradise National Park, the largest park in Slovakia. The park leads you to breathtaking views of caves, canyons, and the gorgeous 75-meter-tall Zavojovy waterfall.
Exploring the Capital
The size of Slovakia's capital, Bratislava, may be small, but it sure is busy. The breathtaking city has the most history and art and is one of the most visited areas in Slovakia. It's home to two palaces, Devin Castle ruins, an observation deck, and numerous statues. It's the photography hotspot of Slovakia!
Taking a Scenic Hike
The High Tatras are renowned for their scenic trails through the limestone mountains, alpine habitat, and hundreds of pristine clear lakes. Make sure to check out the Kriván trail, as it provides a stunning aerial view of the park and does not require a guide.
Discovering Ancient Artifacts
The largest European castle complex, Spiš Castle, has countless artifacts dating back to the 12th century. The area is currently a UNESCO World Heritage site covering over 41,000 square meters.
Get a Glimpse at a Medieval Mining Town
Banská Štiavnica is a preserved medieval town that sits on an ancient volcano. Mining was very prevalent as the town had plentiful silver ore and gunpowder. Enjoy a visit to the open-air mining museum to explore the 17th-century mine.
Stay Cool in an Ice Cave
The Dobšinská Ice Cave is another UNESCO Heritage site that offers gorgeous views of semi-frozen waterfalls, natural formations, and much more. The temperature stays at about 0 degrees year-round, so if you need cooling off in the summer, this is the spot.
Which activity would be at the top of YOUR Slovakian itinerary? If you’re ready to pack your bag and set off for adventure, click here, and let’s begin planning together.
