Exploring Slovakia: A Guide to Castle Ruins, Mountain Trails, and Urban Culture

Many visitors experience Slovakia during a city getaway in Bratislava or through hikes in the renowned Tatras.

However, beyond its wealth of castles and charming old towns, this Central European nation has even more to offer. Today, many of Slovakia's historic sites serve as hubs for modern art and gastronomy. While the High Tatras are a key attraction, Slovakia's other national parks are filled with lush forests, meadows, and alpine lakes, along with extensive cycling and hiking routes.

While many nations boast a variety of attractions, few combine them all in such a compact and easy-to-navigate package. Slovakia's trains connect to capitals throughout Europe, bus services are plentiful, and driving is a breeze. Intrigued yet?

Here’s our guide to the top destinations in Slovakia.

1. Bratislava

Ideal for festive fun and stunning architecture

It’s easy to spot thirsty tourists wandering the cobblestone streets of Bratislava, hunting for their next Lánius beer or daringly seeking a round of Slivovitz plum brandy. While the Slovak capital is famous for its nightlife, even the most enthusiastic partygoers indulge in a bit of culture along the way.

Prepare to experience a stunning array of architecture spanning centuries. Michael’s Tower, the original city gate, hails from the Middle Ages, as does the city’s iconic castle. The art-nouveau Blue Church shines as a masterpiece of early 20th-century design, while the Slovak National Gallery showcases art in a celebrated gallery space. Surrounding it all is the rugged charm of the socialist era, evident in unique structures like the UFO (which features a rotating restaurant) and the defiantly upside-down Slovak Radio Building.

Bratislava serves as a perfect launchpad for day excursions. In just 90 minutes by car, you can explore Červený Kameň Castle, enjoy a spa day in Piešťany, take in the views from the Devínska Kobyla Observation Tower, or ascend Trenčín’s clock tower for a panoramic perspective.

Travel tip: Summer festivals provide an opportunity to see the city in its most regal light. Time your visit for Middle Ages in the Park in June or the later summer Coronation Days.

2. The High Tatras

Perfect for mountain adventures

With peaks soaring up to 2655m (8710ft), the mountains of northern Slovakia have attained a near-legendary reputation. These majestic ranges and valleys were shaped by glaciers during the Ice Age; today, the High Tatras, especially the distinctive Kriváň peak (2495m / 8285ft), are symbols of national pride. Visitors of all skill levels can enjoy gentle walks around the serene Popradské Pleso lake, while experienced hikers are drawn to challenging trails like the Furkotská Valley Loop and the Kôprovsky Śtit Ascent. Eco-friendly travel is also simple, with the Tatra Electric Railway connecting Štrbské Pleso, a charming lakeside resort, to the elevated mountain town of Tatranská Lomnica.

Ski enthusiasts have numerous reasons to flock to the High Tatras. The Jasná Nízke Tatry is the largest ski area, boasting over 46km (29 miles) of slopes, while the highest resort, Tatranská Lomnica, reaches an elevation of 2190m (7185ft).

Travel tip: The highest trails don’t open until mid-June, so plan your visit for midsummer if you aim to conquer towering peaks like Kriváň or Rysy (2501m / 8205ft). Alternatively, September’s gentle sunshine makes for perfect hiking weather.

3. Košice

Ideal for modern art and medieval elegance

Second cities have a unique charm: they offer the sophistication of a capital but with fewer crowds and a gritty spirit. This perfectly describes Košice. For those who appreciate beauty with a bit of an edge, it’s utterly captivating. The imposing Gothic St Elizabeth’s Cathedral dominates a square featuring a plague column, an impressive town hall, and a 14th-century chapel. To truly appreciate the city's layered history, stroll down Hrnčiarska, lined with art studios and cafes, a historic hub for local artisans. Meanwhile, Tabačka Kulturfabrik has evolved into a dynamic coworking space, performance venue, and eclectic bar. It’s creative, chaotic – and quintessentially Košice.

Travel tip: Within a few hours' drive from Košice, you can explore no fewer than 18 UNESCO World Heritage sites, with the most captivating found along the Wooden Churches Trail. Consider hiring a driver or renting a car for a loop that includes Ladomirová, Hervatov, and Kežmarok; part of the adventure is summoning a church custodian to unlock these art-filled sanctuaries.

4. Slovenský Raj National Park

Ideal for waterfalls and rivers

Of the nine national parks located within Slovakia, this one might be our top pick. Dubbed “Slovak Paradise,” it resembles an adventure playground more than a traditional wilderness. Streams flow through a landscape of forests and karst cliffs, challenging visitors to climb ladders and traverse wooden walkways on trails like the popular Suchá Belá Gorge and Kláštorská Gorge, home to three stunning waterfalls.

Cycling offers a wonderful way to explore as well: the park features 65km (40 miles) of bike paths, with additional trails in the surrounding area. You can rent bikes in Spišská Nová Ves or Podlesok, located within the park. While winter brings a quieter atmosphere, you can enjoy cross-country skiing on designated trails or visit the small ski area at Mlynky.

Travel tip: A worthwhile stop just outside the park is Dobšinská Ice Cave, open for tours of its icy stalagmites from mid-May to late August.

5. Banská Štiavnica

Ideal for culture, both above and below ground

Could Banská Štiavnica be the most beautiful town in Central Europe? We believe it’s a strong contender: its Gothic and Renaissance churches and buildings create a stunning architectural jewel nestled within an extinct volcanic caldera.

This medieval town, set in the Štiavnica Mountains, received a UNESCO World Heritage listing not just for its aesthetics but for its impressive engineering history as Slovakia’s oldest gold- and silver-mining settlement. Wandering through the historic village—from the graceful Trinity Square to the not-so-new New Castle (16th century)—provides more than visual delight; it reveals the story of an industry that transformed the entire region. The Slovak Mining Museum invites you to delve into the town’s rich mining heritage. On the hilltop east of town, Kalvária, a distinctive complex of Baroque churches and chapels, offers a stunning view of Banská Štiavnica.

6. Ždiar

Ideal for genuine mountain culture

Ždiar is beautifully situated in the Belianske Tatras, near the border with Poland, surrounded by stunning hiking and biking trails, as well as nearby caves waiting to be explored. Its unique charm lies in the rich Goral culture, evident in its cuisine and intricately painted houses.

The Goral people have called northern Slovakia and southern Poland home since the 14th century when Wallachian shepherds migrated to these rugged regions. Today, Goral identity is a defining characteristic of the village, showcased in Ždiar’s log houses, traditionally adorned with geometric blue and red patterns. The old traditions are lovingly preserved at the Ždiarsky Dom folk museum, alongside a traditional restaurant where you can savor an abundance of sheep’s cheese.

7. Tokaj Region

Ideal for picturesque wine country

Hungary has long claimed fame for its sweet white Tokaj wine, often referred to as “liquid gold,” which was once served to royalty and still features on many fine dining dessert menus. However, a significant portion of the Tokaj wine region, originally part of the Kingdom of Hungary, became part of modern Slovakia after World War I.

Today, southeastern Slovakia is home to over a dozen wineries. Hand-dug underground cellars create charmingly rustic venues for tasting Tokaj wine, typically enjoyed alongside cheeses and cold meats to refresh your palate between sips. Wineries like Jaroslav Ostrožovič and Tokaj Macik, both family-owned and established, provide a complete experience. Be sure to book tastings in advance.

Travel tip: Wine villages such as Veľká Tŕňa are just an hour's drive from Košice, but it’s far more enjoyable to stay overnight. Many wineries offer accommodations on-site; another delightful option is spending the night in a tree house at Camping Malá Bara.

8. Spišské Podhradie

Ideal for castle and hilltop vistas

With over 120 castles dotting the landscape, picking a favorite in Slovakia is no easy task. However, if we had to seek refuge from a trebuchet attack, Spiš would be our choice. Perched majestically on a hill 634m (2080ft) high, Spiš Castle has endured countless battles with its sturdy towers and robust walls. It ranks among Central Europe’s largest fortifications, and thanks to its Gothic renovations, it combines beauty with strength. On clear days, the view extends all the way to the Tatras.

Spišské Podhradie offers more than just one attraction: to the west lies Spišská Kapitula, renowned for its architecture that beautifully blends Romanesque towers with vibrant Baroque details, earning it the title “Slovakia’s Vatican.” The village also boasts a selection of delightful guesthouses and restaurants; we recommend the hearty farmhouse dishes at the cheerful Spišsky Salaš.

Travel tip: Just 12km (7.5 miles) to the west is the town of Levoča, featuring a charming town hall and a compact collection of art and medieval museums. The standout attraction is the stunning view of Levoča’s church spires and defensive walls from the hilltop Basilica of the Virgin Mary—an inspiring sight that will spark thoughts of your next adventure.