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Complete Slovakia Travel Guide, What You Need to Know
Slovakia is in the middle of Central Europe. The country is full of fairy tale towns, castles, forests, and 7 UNESCO sites to explore. Slovakia receives around 6 million visitors each year and is still considered an off-the-beaten-path destination. Planning international travel can be overwhelming and time-consuming while working full time. Use this Slovakia travel guide and the following Slovakia travel blog posts to plan your perfect vacation. The top destinations in Slovakia are Bratislava, the Tatra Mountains, Banská Štiavnica, and Bojnice Castle.
Bratislava Slovakia Travel Guide
Bratislava is the Slovakian capital and is known for its well-preserved Communist-Era Architecture. Bratislava has a cobblestoned medieval old town full of pastel buildings, a castle, the narrowest house in Europe, vineyards, a café culture, and a large neighborhood of colorful former Communist blocks.
READ 24 Hours in Bratislava Slovakia
What You Need to Know When Planning a Trip to Slovakia
Where is Slovakia?
Slovakia is in Central Europe. It is bordered by Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Ukraine. The major cities are Bratislava, Košice, Žilina, and Prešov. Bratislava is the capital and largest city of Slovakia.
What is the language in Slovakia?
The national language of Slovakia is Slovak, it is spoken by 80% of the population. Czech is the second most commonly spoken language in Slovakia. Hungarian, English, Russian, and German are also commonly known languages in Slovakia. About 13% of the population speaks English, most often teens to people in their 30’s. English speakers will not have difficulty communicating in large cities. Be sure to learn a few key phrases as well as some slang. FluentU offers a helpful list of common words and phrases to learn before you travel.
Do I need a visa to visit Slovakia?
According to Project Visa, US citizens do not need a visa for a visit up to 90 days in a 6 month period.
What is the currency in Slovakia?
The currency in Slovakia is the euro. US dollars are not accepted at restaurants, attractions, or stores. Be sure to download a free currency calculator before you arrive.
Can I use credit cards and ATMs in Slovakia?
ATMs are widely available in Slovakia. Avoid large fees by using your bank’s international partner in Slovakia and google its location before you travel. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Slovakia, you will need a 4 digit PIN from the bank. Save money on fees with a credit card that waives foreign transaction fees and make purchases in euro. Many small businesses and villages are cash only.
How much should I budget per day in Slovakia?
According to Budget Your Trip, the average daily cost of traveling in Slovakia is $86. Expect to pay $1,199 + airfare for a one-week trip for 2.
When is the best time to visit Slovakia?
The high tourist season is from May to August with the hottest temperatures in July and August. The shoulder season is March to April, and October to mid-November. May, September, and October are the best seasons to visit Slovakia; temperatures are mild, the trees change colors, and crowds are minimal. Expect freezing temperatures and snow in the winter. December through April is the high season for ski areas and thermal spas. Most tourist sights are closed from November through March.
What transportation does Slovakia use?
There are no domestic flights in Slovakia, use a rental car, train, or bus to travel between cities. Slovakia has the eighth-most dangerous roads in Europe, be careful driving in the dark. It is important to note, should you be stopped, the allowed level of blood alcohol is 0%. Ferry service is available between Bratislava and Budapest or Vienna. Transportation by bus and tram is available in large cities. Taxis are known to overcharge.
What kind of adaptor do I need in Slovakia?
The plugs in Slovakia are type C and F. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter with surge protection. You will need a converter if you plan to use an electric razor or blow dryer from the US.
What should I pack for Slovakia?
Jeans and camisoles or t-shirts are common summer daily wear. Jeans and sweaters are common in the winter. Bring an umbrella and dress in layers to be prepared for temperature changes during shoulder season. A comfortable pair of walking shoes with a good soles for cobbled streets is important.
Is Slovakia a safe country for solo travelers?
According to Travel Safe Abroad, Slovakia is a safe country overall and violent crime is almost non-existent. Be aware of your surroundings, there is a moderate risk for scams and pickpockets. Dial 112 in an emergency. Contact the US Embassy for non-urgent emergencies, such as a lost passport.
What Slovakian food do I need to try?
Bryndzové (dumplings with sheep’s cheese and bacon), vyprážaný rezeň (schnitzel), kapustnica (sauerkraut and sausage soup), zemiakové placky (crispy potato pancakes), lokshe (mince meat-stuffed potato pancakes), vyprážaný syr (fried cheese), slovenske palacinky (crepes), trdelnik (funnel cake), Laskonky (meringue cookies), and drink Borovička (moonshine).
Tips for Traveling in Slovakia
- A tip of 10% is normal.
- Slovakia has high-quality water that can be drunk from the tap.
- Do not call Slovakia Czechoslovakia or confuse it with Slovenia.
- Most tourist attractions are open Tuesday to Sunday 9am to 5pm.
- Stores often close at noon on Saturday and do not open on Sunday.
- Keep change available, you may have to pay to use a toilet.
- During a toast, clink glasses with everyone while looking them in the eye.
- Take off your shoes when invited into someone’s home, and bring chocolate or a bottle of wine.
- Be on time or 5-10 minutes early.
- Keep good social distance, an arms-length away.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport with you, it is the law.
10 Top Things to See and Do in Slovakia
- See the Communist Era architecture of Bratislava.
- See wooden churches in Slovakia’s rural villages.
- Hike the trails in Slovak Paradise national park.
- Visit the spa town of Bešeňová or Piešťany.
- Relax in the hot springs in Podhajska.
- Experience traditional Slovak life in Čičmany.
- Explore the Dobsinska Ice Cave.
- Tour Bojnice Castle.
- Wander the fairytale town of Banska Stiavnica.
- Take the Bachledka treetop walk in the Tatra Mountains.
Be sure to check the Bratislava Tourism Board website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.
Interesting Facts About Slovakia
- Slovakia is the midpoint of Europe.
- Bratislava is the only capital in the world that borders 2 countries, Austria and Hungary.
- Slovakia has the world’s highest number of castles (220) and châteaux (425).
- There are over 6000 caves and 1600 mineral springs in Slovakia.
- The highest statue of a horse in the world is in Samorín-Cilistov.
- The oldest European marathon is held in Kosice.
- Slovakia has one of the world’s lowest birth rates.
- About 90 percent of the population has secondary education.
- Andy Warhol’s parents immigrated from Slovakia.
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Slovakia Travel Guide
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