Slovakia
In past centuries, Slovakia has found itself tethered to other places from Hungary, to the Czech Republic. Even tourism is guilty of combining Slovakia with other countries along the Danube, or worse, confusing it with Slovenia. Let it stand out for itself, tall and proud! Our Slovakia travel guide reveals the best kept secrets of this little, landlocked country, from the phenomenal High Tatras Mountains to the medieval capital of Bratislava.
Slovakia, officially the Slovak Republic, is a landlocked country in Central Europe. It is bordered by Poland to the north, Ukraine to the east, Hungary to the south, Austria to the west, and the Czech Republic to the northwest.
Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, is a filled with cobbled streets, countless bars, restaurants and local craft shops, as well as some designer stores.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Slovakia and take advantage of its natural attractions is during the warmest time of the year that is from May to the end of October.
Summer is an excellent time to visit Devin and Spiš castles. Wildflower bloom in the High Tatras starts in June. Meanwhile, July is ideal for climbing Gerlachovský Štít, the highest peak in the Carpathians, and partying at Pohoda Festival and World Roma Festival.
Winter is prime time for skiing in the Tatras, tasting young wines, and discovering local Christmas traditions.
It will never be overly busy anytime of the year in Slovakia! Relax and enjoy this little beauty of a country.
For a month by month look click here
What To Expect
Capital: Bratislava
Language: The official language of Slovakia is Slovak. Czech is also fairly common. Many Slovakians, especially the younger generations, will speak some English. “Hello” and “Thank you” are, “Ahoj” and “Ďakujem”
Currency: The official currency of Slovakia is the Euro (EUR). £1 GBP is equivalent to 1.18 EUR. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: To get the best exchange rate in Slovakia, it’s wise to use your credit card whenever you get the chance. If you need some Euros, you will find that ATMs are very prevalent in capitals but not so much in the little towns. Never use Euronet ATM’s, these will charge you for withdrawals and also give you a poor exchange rate. It’s always best to have cash on you as not all bars or restaurants will take cards.
Plugs: For Slovakia there are two associated plug types, types C and E. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins and plug type E is the plug which has two round pins and a hole for the socket’s male earthing pin. Slovakia operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: Slovakia is one of the safest countries in Europe and we never had any issues while we were there. There is a risk of petty crime, especially in Bratislava. Pickpockets operate around the main tourist areas, particularly the popular Christmas markets and in bars
Useful tip: Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and by taxi drivers.
Never ever: Don’t call it Czechoslovakia anymore, and don’t mix up Slovakia vs Slovenia vs Slavonia. Slovakia is a Danubian country that was part of former Czechoslovakia. Slovenia is a country on Balkan Peninsula. Slavonia is a region in Croatia. The common thing among them is their Slavic-ness.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Slovakia and reasons to visit Slovakia.
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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Slovakia
The High Tatras, part of the Carpathian mountain range, are Slovakia’s crown jewel, offering dramatic landscapes of rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and dense forests. Perfect for both summer hiking and winter skiing, these mountains cater to adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Trails like the one leading to the Štrbské Pleso glacial lake or the panoramic views from Lomnický štít peak are unforgettable. And for those seeking relaxation, the region’s mountain resorts provide a tranquil escape amidst nature’s grandeur.
Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital perched on the banks of the Danube, boasts a charming Old Town that’s teeming with history. Here, narrow lanes lead to a plethora of architectural marvels, from the Gothic beauty of St. Martin’s Cathedral to the opulence of Primate’s Palace. Bratislava Castle, overlooking the city from a hilltop, provides both historical intrigue and panoramic vistas. As you wander, the many cafés and traditional Slovak restaurants offer the perfect pit stops to sample local delicacies and soak in the city’s atmosphere.
3. Delve into the Subterranean Wonders of the Demänovská Cave of Liberty
Located near the town of Liptovský Mikuláš, the Demänovská Cave of Liberty is Slovakia’s most visited cave system. The cave, sculpted by the Demänovka river, boasts a mesmerising array of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools. As visitors navigate its illuminated chambers and corridors, they’re treated to a spectacle of natural artistry. Beyond its geological wonders, the cave has an intriguing history, having been explored and open to the public for centuries.
Perched atop a hill in eastern Slovakia, Spiš Castle is one of the largest castle compounds in Central Europe. This UNESCO World Heritage site, with roots dating back to the 12th century, is a monument to medieval fortification, with its imposing walls, towers, and bastions. While the castle itself is a marvel, the surrounding Spiš region offers more treasures, including the Gothic Church of the Holy Spirit in Žehra and the historic town of Spišské Podhradie. Together, they paint a vivid picture of the area’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
5. Experience the Folk Traditions of Vlkolínec
Vlkolínec, another of Slovakia’s UNESCO-listed gems, is a living testament to the country’s folk traditions. This well-preserved village, set against the backdrop of the Velká Fatra mountains, offers a step back in time. With its wooden log houses, many of which are still inhabited, and its traditional agricultural layout, Vlkolínec provides a glimpse into rural life as it was centuries ago. A visit here is like entering a living museum, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of rural Slovakia.
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