21 unique things to do in Slovakia (places you shouldn’t miss)
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Slovakia beyond Bratislava, you’re in the right spot.
The country is full of fairytale castles, medieval villages, and caves that most tourists miss!
In fact, Slovakia has beautiful landscapes and historical sites that could fill your itinerary for weeks.
In this post, I’ll list the top places to visit in Slovakia that are off the tourist trail, so you’ll get a complete picture of what the country has to offer.
Let’s dive in!
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Best things to do in Slovakia
1. Stroll through Bratislava Old Town
Most people arrive in Bratislava when they visit Slovakia.
Make sure to check out Bratislava’s Old Town, where you’re just a short walk from the 9th-century Bratislava Castle.
Also, check out the Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum for some modern art.
Book here – Bratislava: 2- Hour Private Walking Tour
2. Explore Banská Štiavnica
Banská Štiavnica is a charming mining town from the 3rd century and a UNESCO site since 1993.
Tour the Old Castle from the 13th century and the New Castle from the 16th century to see how people in the past defended their turf.
Book here – Private Day Trip to Banska Stiavnica Unesco Site
3. Tour the medieval Spiš Castle
Spiš Castle was built in the 12th century, and it has been a UNESCO site since 1993.
Climb up there for some awesome views and a peek into Slovakia’s medieval days.
4. See the UNESCO-listed wooden churches
In Eastern Slovakia, the wooden churches are something else. The Hervartov church from the 15th century, for example, is built without nails.
It’s part of these UNESCO sites that really show off the old-school building skills.
5. Join a food tour
Slovakian food is pure comfort food, and a food tour is the best way to experience it.
In Bratislava, you can join a 4-hour tasting tour where you’ll hit up at least five different spots and try the best food from Slovakia.
Book here – Bratislava Foodie Tour
6. Learn at the Slovak Mining Museum
At the Slovak Mining Museum in Banská Štiavnica, you can dive into the miners’ world and the rich mining history of the area.
It’s a hands-on way to learn about the tough lives of those who dug deep into the earth for precious metals.
7. Taste Slovak wines at local vineyards
Sip on some local Slovak wines straight from vineyards that have been around since Great Moravia.
These places offer tastings and tours, so you can get a taste of what makes Central European wines special.
Book here – Winery Tour with Wine Tasting in the Countryside
8. Visit open-air museums for Slovak village life
Find out how Slovak ancestors lived at open-air museums like the Museum of the Slovak Village near Žilina.
They’ve got whole villages rebuilt just like in the old days, giving you a real-life glimpse into the past.
Book here – Full-Day Small-Group Tour of Zilina and Mala Fatra with Lunch
9. Attend a Slovak folk festival
Get into the spirit of Slovakia at a folk festival.
Places like Vlkolínec or Čičmany throw these lively events where you can soak up traditional music and dance that have been the heart of Slovak culture for ages.
10. Experience the cultural heritage of Košice
Košice is Eastern Slovakia’s gem.
This city is home to the majestic St. Elisabeth Cathedral and the East Slovak Museum, housing the famous Golden Treasure of Košice.
Wander the streets to soak up the city’s vibrant cultural heritage and don’t miss the “Cage of Shame,” a relic from a bygone era of public humiliation for nobility.
11. Admire the traditional painted houses in Čičmany
The village of Čičmany is like walking into a storybook with its traditional painted houses.
These decorative patterns were originally meant to protect the wood from the elements. This artistic tradition has put Čičmany on the map as a prime example of Slovak folk architecture, and it’s even said to have inspired elements of modernist architecture.
Book here – From Bratislava: Cicmany with Thermal Bath Entrance
12. Go bear-watching or hiking in the High Tatras
The High Tatras are the highest range in the Carpathian Mountains.
I went hiking in June and it was so beautiful – lakes, trees, and mountains all around. You can hike on your own or join an organized tour where you’ll hike AND look for bears!
Book here – Bear-watching Hiking Day Tour in High Tatras
13. Ski or snowboard in the Low Tatras
In winter, the Low Tatras becomes a winter wonderland for snow sports enthusiasts.
Jasna is the largest ski resort in Slovakia with over 50 km of ski runs and state-of-the-art lift systems.
After hitting the slopes, you can unwind in traditional mountain huts that dish out hearty local cuisine.
14. Go caving in Demänovská Cave of Liberty
If you’re up for a bit of underground adventure, check out the Demänovská Cave of Liberty.
It’s not too far from Liptovsky Mikulas, and it’s a cool place to escape the heat. in the summer. You’ll walk through lit-up paths and see all sorts of wild rock formations like stalactites and stalagmites.
15. Drive through Slovak Paradise National Park
Slovak Paradise National Park is filled with dense forests, clear streams, and steep gorges.
The Sucha Bela Gorge is a must-visit – it’s got ladders and bridges, so it’s a bit like hiking and climbing at the same time.
16. Discover the Dobšinská Ice Cave
And then there’s the Dobšinská Ice Cave.
This place is chilly all year, so don’t forget a warm jacket. It’s actually one of the biggest ice caves in the world, discovered back in 1870.
Since 2000, it’s been on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
17. Visit Devin Castle ruins
If you like old ruins with a view, Devin Castle is the spot.
It’s been around since the 9th century, right where the Danube and Morava rivers come together. The views are amazing, and there’s a lot of history there.
It was destroyed by Napoleon’s army, but there’s still plenty to see.
Book here – Devin Castle Tour with Currant Wine Tasting
18. Unwind in a thermal spa
Slovakia is dotted with spa towns, like Piešťany and Trenčianske Teplice.
The water is warm, full of minerals, and just the thing for some relaxation. And while you’re at it, grab some bryndzové halušky – it’s the local comfort food.
19. Cruise along the Danube River
Fancy a different view of Slovakia?
Hop on a boat and cruise along the Danube River.
You’ll float right under Bratislava’s UFO Bridge and get a glimpse of the city’s old historical buildings from the water.
20. See the Andy Warhol Museum of Modern Art
In the town of Medzilaborce, you’ll find the Andy Warhol Museum of Modern Art, which is where Warhol’s parents were from.
It has one of the largest collections of Warhol’s works outside the United States.
Read next: 16 fun facts about Slovakia that will surprise you
21. Visit the picturesque mining village of Špania Dolina
Špania Dolina is a quaint little mining village.
It used to be a major copper producer, and now it’s a peaceful spot surrounded by hills and dotted with historical houses. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Slovakia!
FAQ – What to do in Slovakia
What is Slovakia famous for?
Slovakia stands out for its 100+ castles, stunning Tatra Mountains, and well-preserved folk architecture in regions like Čičmany. Its capital, Bratislava, charms with its historic old town and riverside cafés.
Is it worth going to Slovakia?
Definitely, Slovakia has a mix of outdoor adventure, rich history, and unique cultural experiences.
Is there much to do in Slovakia?
With activities ranging from exploring the High Tatras for hiking and skiing, visiting UNESCO sites like Spiš Castle, to soaking in thermal parks like Bešeňová, Slovakia is packed with diverse attractions.
Is Slovakia a cheap country?
Slovakia is more affordable than many Western European countries, with lower costs for dining, lodging, and sightseeing.
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