Bratislava is the charming capital city of Slovakia. From wandering through the historic Old Town to exploring castles, Bratislava offers something for every type of traveler. In this article, I will highlight some of the best things to do in Bratislava that will make your visit truly unforgettable.

 

I spent 5 days in Bratislava which was more than enough. It’s a very small city, and all the attractions are close to each other. I think 2 to 3 days is ideal to visit everything listed below. In fact, the official tourism office ‘Visit Bratislava’ refers to its capital as the #72-hour city. It’s also very easy to visit Bratislava on a day trip from Vienna which is only one hour away.

 

Although I enjoyed how walkable Bratislava was I found the city to be somewhat underwhelming. Sorry, Slovakia!

 

 

BEST THINGS TO DO IN BRATISLAVA

 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. I will earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking on the link at no extra cost to you. 

 

1. MURAL IN BRATISLAVA TRAIN STATION

 

I listed the mural as the first thing to see in Bratislava in case you’re arriving by train, like I did. The large mural is in the main hall of the train station but most passengers pass by without even noticing it. Now that you know where it is, you can take a minute to have a look!

 

The mural was created in 1960 during the heyday of Communism. It depicts societal idealism typical of the Soviet era. Why is this relevant to modern-day Slovakia? Because Slovakia and Czechia used to form one country called Czechoslovakia (how original) which was declared a Soviet satellite state.

 

Although Communism ended decades ago, Soviet remnants can still be found throughout Slovakia. The mural in the train station is one of them.

 

Following the fall of the Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia peacefully split into two distinct countries on January 1st, 1993. This was known as the “Velvet Divorce.”

 

 

Are you a fan of all things Soviet? Then this tour is tailored for you! Ride in a vintage Skoda to see off-the-beaten-path Soviet-era sites around Bratislava.

 

 

2. WANDER AROUND THE HISTORIC OLD TOWN: BEST THING TO DO IN BRATISLAVA

 

The historic Old Town is the beating heart of Bratislava. You’ll probably be spending most of your time here. In fact, many of the things to do in Bratislava I listed in this post are located in the Old Town

 

This historical area is chock full of restaurants, outdoor terraces, quaint coffee shops, souvenir shops and popular tourist attractions. A visit to the Old Town is the best way to spend a day in Bratislava!

 

 

Head to the Main Square to witness some of the most beautiful architecture in Bratislava such as the Old Town Hall (pictured below) and the City History Museum. Have a look at the beautiful mosaic tile roof!

 

 

St. Michael’s Gate, St. Martin Cathedral and the Opera House are some of the must-see sites in the Old Town of Bratislava.

 

 

Simply wandering around the Old Town is one of the best things to do in Bratislava! Or, you can join a walking (or Segway!) tour to make the most of your visit.

 

 

3. THE BLUE CHURCH

 

The official name is the Church of Saint-Elizabeth of Hungary but it’s commonly referred to as the Blue Church for obvious reasons. A visit to the Blue Church is one of the top things to do in Bratislava! This beautiful church is completely painted in pastel blue with hints of white. It’s so blue that it blends in with the blue sky on a clear day.

 

The Art Nouveau design features blue majolica tiles, intricate blue mosaics and a blue glazed roof. Of course, the pretty interior is also painted in soft hues of blue. The Blue Church is one of the cutest churches I’ve ever seen. Am I the only one who finds it looks like a wedding cake?

 

The church is located on Bezručova street about a 15-minute walk from the Old Town.

 

 

 

4. CUMIL THE BRONZE SEWER WORKER

 

This bronze statue of Cumil the sewer worker casually peeping through the manhole is certainly the most famous in Bratislava. The offbeat statue was installed in 1997 as an effort to spruce up the otherwise drab post-Communist capital city of Slovakia.

 

I don’t know if Cumil served his purpose but he has certainly put a smile on everyone visiting Bratislava throughout the years!

 

 

 

5. HOTEL KJYEV

 

Hotel Kjyev was built in 1973 and is a prime example of Communist design. The mammoth 180-room hotel was in service for 40 years but stood empty for several years after its closure in 2011. The iconic hotel was listed for demolition a few years ago but a public outcry saved it from its eventual demise.

 

Hotel Kjyev once again made headlines in 2018 when it became the object of the largest mural in Bratislava. A team of 17 street artists was hired to paint vertical and horizontal white lines on the facade of the building. The result is a pretty cool optical illusion.

 

You can find the now-defunct hotel standing above the Prior Bratislava Shopping Mall in the city centre.

 

 

6. BRUTALIST RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

 

The Brutalist Residential Building was built between 1968-1974 as experimental residences. This project is a perfect example of Brutalist design prevalent during the Soviet era. The jagged concrete building complete with yellow details is definitely an eye-catcher! I’m sure many tourists who visited Bratislava have a photo of it on their reel, haha.

 

The Brutalist Residential Building is on Medená street just a stone’s throw away from the Old Town.

 

 

7. UFO BUILDING (aka MOST SNP)

 

Keeping in line with strange buildings, the UFO Building was built in 1967. It features an observation deck and a restaurant. At the time of construction, the building was considered an architectural masterpiece. I’m no expert but I would say that statement still stands true almost 60 years later.

 

Most SNP became a landmark in Slovakia and is a proud member of The World Federation of Great Towers. How’s that for honours!

 

You can take an elevator up to the observation deck where you’ll get a 360° view of Bratislava and beyond as far as 100 km. Ticket prices vary according to age but a regular adult ticket costs 9,90€. See all ticket prices here.

 

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you can hang from a windowsill 85 meters high to get a different perspective of Bratislava down below. The UFO Skywalk is open from April to October. Tickets cost 45€. You can buy a ticket on the official website here.

 

The UFO Building is open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day.

 

8. JULIUS SATINSKY STATUE

 

This quirky statue was erected as a tribute to Slovak showman, Julius Satinsky. A coverall-toting Julius defiantly points to a huge ear on the side of a building. I have no idea why. Who knew underwhelming (ahem) Bratislava had such a cheeky sense of humour?

 

You can find the statue on Dunajská street just a short walk from the Blue Church.

 

 

9. STATUE OF HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN

 

The Hans Christian Andersen statue isn’t as quirky as the previous statue but it’s certainly worth mentioning. The bronze statue was created in honour of the legendary author of children’s books such as The Little Mermaid and The Ugly Duckling. The author is lovingly surrounded by characters from his fairy tales.

 

The statue stands in Hviezdoslavovo Square in the Old Town.

 

10. GRASSALKOVICH PRESIDENTIAL PALACE

 

Grassalkovich Palace is the official seat of the president of Slovakia. The president doesn’t actually live here but the venue is used to host official ceremonies and diplomatic events.

 

The palace isn’t open to the public except one day during the year (usually in June). However, it is allowed to take photos of the palace and the grounds. A visit to the palace also offers a chance to see the changing of the guards held at noon on weekdays.

 

Grassalkovich Palace is in Hodžovo Square, halfway between the main railway station and the Old Town.

 

 

11. HOTEL GALERIA

 

It’s no surprise Hotel Galeria made it on the list of Unique Structures in the World. Can you see why? The lopsided hotel is painted in colourful, funky swathes and looks like it came straight out of a cartoon strip!

 

The groovy theme continues throughout the property with rooms painted in every colour of the rainbow. Also, a special shout-out to the genuine retro furnishings, haha.

 

You probably already guessed Hotel Galeria is beyond compare. Besides its eccentric design, it also serves as a hotel, a hostel, a coffee shop, an art gallery (where you can create your own art) and a nutritionist shop selling homemade products. Talk about versatility!

 

This hotel is an excellent option for intrepid travellers in search of a unique sleeping experience. Accommodation options are either private rooms or dorms. Check prices and availability on Booking.com.

 

Let me know if you decide to spend a night at Hotel Galeria. I’d love to get some feedback! Hotel Galeria is on the outskirts of the city centre on the way to the main railway station.

 

 

12. CHINESE GATE

 

I’m sure the Chinese Gate rarely makes it on the list of things to see in Bratislava. I decided to include it simply because it was unexpected. I had no idea there was such a significant Chinese community in the capital city of Slovakia! Of course, the restaurant caters to anyone craving delicious Chinese food.

 

The gate of the Shanghai restaurant is as authentic as any I’ve seen in China.

 

 

13. KLEMENSOVA RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

 

You might wonder what’s so special about the Klemensova Residential Building that makes it one of the top things to see in Bratislava. Well, the building is almost completely draped in green ivy vines. It’s just too pretty not to mention! See for yourself.

 

I was in Bratislava in July so the vines were in full bloom; lush and leafy green. Otherwise, Autumn is also a great season as the leaves turn fiery red, effervescent orange and warm yellow.

 

You don’t need to go far to see the building. It’s at the corner of Klemensova and Jakubovo streets just a few minutes from the Blue Church.

 

 

14. MILETICOVA CENTRAL MARKET

 

Nothing beats soaking in the local culture than going to the market! Mileticova Central Market is no exception. The biggest market in Slovakia retains a retro vibe reminiscent of the Soviet era when it first opened.

 

The market is a hodgepodge of fresh produce stands, imported bargain clothing and shoes, local handicrafts, Slovak delicacies as well as all sorts of knickknacks. Mileticova Central Market is also the best place to buy homegrown honey and herbal teas harvested in Slovakia.

 

Opening hours are as follows: Monday to Friday 6:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. / Saturday 6:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m./ Sunday Closed

 

 

15. SEARCH FOR STREET ART

 

As an avid fan of street art, I was ecstatic to find some in (underwhelming, hihi) Bratislava!

 

Street art and graffiti made their way to Slovakia in the mid-1990’s. Artists were finally able to express their creativity following the fall of Communism. There’s even an annual Bratislava Street Art Festival held in June.

 

Keep your eyes peeled for some awesome murals like these two near Hotel Kjyev.

 

Love street art? Check out my Street Art Guides!

 

 

16. VISIT BRATISLAVA CASTLE

 

Bratislava Castle is the most popular tourist attraction in Slovakia. Naturally, Bratislava Castle should be at the top of anyone’s list when visiting the capital city. The castle is so famous that it’s even featured on .5¢, .10¢ and .20¢ Euro cents.

 

The castle holds a long and complex history but, in short:

 

The first known inhabitants of the castle were the Celts. Their presence can be traced back to the 9th century during the Stone Age. Throughout the centuries, the castle was occupied by the Romans, the Slavs, Hungarian kings as well as other power-hungry conquerors. It all came to an end in 1811 when the castle was destroyed by a fire.

 

 

Bratislava Castle was burnt down beyond repair; there really wasn’t any interest in restoring it. Consequently, the castle was neglected and forgotten until 1953. However, newfound interest in the castle sprouted that year. Extensive restoration started in 1953, and the castle finally opened to the public in 1968. The Slovak National Museum was established that same year and has been housed in the castle ever since.

 

Visiting the beautiful Baroque gardens is free but there’s an entrance fee of 10€ to enter the museum.

 

Entrance to the Slovak National Museum is free the first Sunday of every month.

 

Opening hours:

April 1st - October 31st: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry is at 5 p.m.)

November 1st - March 31st: Open daily (except on Tuesdays) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry is at 5 p.m.)

 

 

17. CHILL AT THE OLD TOWN BEACH (PLAZ STARE MESTO)

 

You might be as surprised as I was to know that Bratislava has a beach right in the city! Don’t get too excited, though. Old Town Beach, or Plaz Stare Mesto, is a man made beach but there’s still plenty of soft sand to sink your toes in.

 

Do as the locals do and chill on a deck chair to watch the world go by on the Danube River! The beach is a favourite hangout during the hot Summer months. The small embankment includes a bar offering a few food options. Sometimes there’s even some live music!

 

The entrance to Old Town Beach is free. It’s only open seasonally but taking a romantic walk along the banks of the Danube River is possible all year round.

 

 

18. FRANCISCAN CHURCH OF LORD’S ANNUNCIATION

 

The Franciscan Church of Lord’s Annunciation is the oldest religious structure in the Old Town of Bratislava. How old? It was consecrated in 1297. That’s more than 700 years old! Naturally, it made the list of 20 things to do in Bratislava.

 

Here are a few facts about the church:

 

• The Gothic church was built by King Ladislav IV. Kumánsky to commemorate his victory over King Přemysl Otakar II. 
• The town’s mayor was elected in the church during the Middle Ages
• Ferdinand I was elected as the King of Hungary in the church in 1526
• The original presbytery and nave have been preserved intact
• The church has several underground crypts
• “Queen of the Angels”, the largest Baroque painting in Slovakia, is exhibited in the church
• The Treasury holds a collection of priceless silver artifacts

 

It only costs 1€ to climb the Gothic tower including a tour of the Treasury.

 

 

19. PRIMATE’S PALACE

 

Primate’s Palace is possibly the most beautiful building in Bratislava! I think it’s the pastel pink that got me, haha. The palace was built in the 18th century in Neoclassical style and houses an extensive collection of Habsburg royalty oil portraits.

 

Since it serves as the seat of the Mayor of Bratislava, pictures are only allowed in the Hall of Mirrors. The rest of the palace is also open to the public but you’ll need to put away your camera or Smartphone.

 

Primate’s Palace is located in the Old Town in the square bearing the same name.

 

Entrance fee: 3€

Opening hours: Open daily (except on Monday) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

 

20. SALVATOR PHARMACY

 

The Salvator Pharmacy is surely one of the most photographed buildings in the historic centre! Just one look at the intricate facade and you can see why.

 

Pharmacist Rudolf Adler built the pharmacy in 1904. It stayed in operation for almost 100 years until it closed permanently in the mid-1990’s following the fall of Communism.

 

Unfortunately, the notable building was left empty and desolate for 25 years. However, in 2022, the city council approved its full restoration as a working pharmacy. The original Baroque furniture had been privately owned for years but the current owner has agreed to return all the furniture to help bring Salvator Pharmacy back to its former glory.

 

Salvator Pharmacy is on Panská street in the Old Town.

 

 

ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION FOR BRATISLAVA

 

Overall, travelling in Bratislava is straightforward and hassle-free. The city’s layout is easily navigable on foot, and most of the popular attractions are in or very close to the Old Town. Having said that, it’s better to be prepared when visiting any city.

 

The following information will help you better plan your trip to Bratislava.

 

BRATISLAVA MAIN RAILWAY STATION

 

The main railway station in Bratislava is called Hlavná stanica (address: Námestie Franza Liszta). This is an international station with trains going to several countries including Austria, Hungary, Poland, Switzerland, Germany and Czechia.

 

Tickets can be purchased at the railway station, directly on the official website (wwwzssk.sk) or on Omio.

 

Free WiFi

Luggage storage ($)

Toilets

Ticket machines/counters

Food vendors

Seating areas

 

How to get from the train station to the Old Town of Bratislava: 

 

The Old Town is 1.3 km from the railway station. Buses and trams run regularly from the train station to the Old Town. I suggest you check on Google Maps for accurate and up-to-date routes. You can type ‘Bratislava Hlavna’ and ‘Bratislava Old Town’ (Stare Mesto) for directions.

 

 

Several taxis are usually parked in front of the station. Uber and Bolt are also widely used in Slovakia (make sure to download the apps).

 

BRATISLAVA NIVY BUS STATION

 

Bratislava has a brand new international bus station located less than 2 km from the Old Town. Buses to several countries depart from the Bratislava Nivy Bus Station (address: Mlynské Nivy 3).

 

You can purchase tickets directly at the ticket counters at the bus station or online on BusBud or FlixBus to reserve your seat(s) in advance.

 

The station is open 24 hours but the ticket offices have fixed hours as follows:

 

Monday - Friday: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Weekends & holidays: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

 

WiFi

Luggage storage ($)

Toilets

Seating areas

Ticket counters

Food stands

Convenience stores

 

How to get from Bratislava Nivy Bus Station to the Old Town:

 

Bus no. 42 runs directly from Bratislava Nivy Bus Station to the Old Town (check Google Maps for accurate routes).

 

BRATISLAVA AIRPORT (M. R. STEFANIK)

 

The Bratislava Airport is located about 14 km from the Old Town. Usual amenities such as exchange offices, ATM’s and free WiFi are available.

 

How to get from the airport to the Old Town of Bratislava:

 

Several options are at your disposal, it just depends on your budget and the time you have at your disposal. As usual at airports, taxis are readily available. Or, you can use a ride-hailing service such as Uber or Bolt.

 

Want to make sure you have a ride as soon as you arrive? Book now with GetTransfer.

 

 

There are no direct buses from the airport to the Old Town so you’ll need to take two buses. Again, I suggest checking the best routes using Google Maps.

 

Book your flight to Bratislava on Skyscanner, the most widely-used flight engine search.

 

HOW TO TAKE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN BRATISLAVA

 

Bratislava has a very efficient public transportation network which includes buses, trams and trolleybuses. Tickets are either in paper form, electronic or can be sent by SMS. Tickets can be purchased at platforms, ticket offices, news agencies or directly onboard.

 

Fares are calculated according to the time validity and zones. Tickets can be used for unlimited journeys within their time validity and are valid for all routes (dependant on the zone).

 

If you’re visiting Bratislava for just a few days, you can purchase 24-hour (limited or unlimited) or 72-hour passes starting at 4€.

 

Luggage is charged separately so you’ll need to buy a ticket for .45€ (cents). This also applies to animals and bicycles.

 

For detailed information on public transportation in Bratislava, go to the official website.

 

 

HOW TO PURCHASE THE BRATISLAVA CARD

 

The Bratislava Card is the official tourist card of Bratislava. It includes free entrances to museums (including the Slovak History Museum), unlimited free public transportation (optional) and discounts to popular tourist attractions.

 

The card is valid either 24, 48 or 72 hours upon activation. You can purchase the card online on the official website, at the BTB Tourist Information Center or at participating partners (see list on website). Prices start as low as 18€.

 

WHERE TO FIND THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN BRATISLAVA 

 

As expected in a European capital city, Bratislava has plenty of accommodation to satisfy any type of traveller. From backpacker hostels to budget-friendly hotels and luxury hotels, there’s no shortage of choice. Check pricing and availability on Booking.com or Agoda to find the perfect accommodation for your stay in Bratislava.

 

I chose to stay in this Airbnb which I highly recommend. It’s in a renovated heritage building located just a 10-minute walk to the Old Town. I decided to eat in a lot so I bought groceries at Lidl or Tesco down the street.

 

HOW TO STAY CONNECTED IN BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA

 

Most places such as restaurants and hotels offer free Wifi to help you stay connected while travelling in Bratislava. There’s also a free public network called ‘Visit Bratislava’ in the city centre which you can connect to. However, having a SIM card is still the best option to stay connected at all times to ensure a carefree visit.

 

Orange is the most popular network supplier in Slovakia. If you already have an Orange SIM card from another European country, chances are it will work in Slovakia. If not, you can buy a SIM card at the airport (not the best option), at authorized retailers or at official Orange shops or online shop.

 

Don’t want to stress over finding a SIM card while you’re in Bratislava? Then I suggest buying an eSIM card before your trip. Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store providing service to over 100 countries. It’s as easy as choosing your destination and package, and you’re all set!

 

Go to the Airalo website for all the goodies on offer.

 

GET US$3 ON YOUR FIRST PURCHASE WITH AIROLO BY ENTERING THIS CODE: LYDIA5764

 

VISA REQUIREMENTS

 

Slovakia is part of the borderless Schengen zone. Many nationalities don’t need a visa to visit Slovakia for a stay of up to 90 days over a 180-day period. However, it’s always best to verify visa requirements to any country before visiting.

 

Check on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic for entry requirements for Slovakia for your nationality.

 

TRAVEL RESOURCES

 

• Verify visa requirements for Slovakia on the official website
• Book flights to Slovakia via Skyscanner
• Compare hotel prices in Slovakia on Booking.com & Agoda
• Check hostel prices on HostelWorld
• Stay connected using an Airalo E-sim for Slovakia
• Search for tours & excursions in Slovakia
• Shop for affordable travel insurance with SafetWing
• Save on conversion fees while traveling with Wise

 

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