slovakia solo travel

Solo Travel in Slovakia

Martin Talač

I think Slovakia as a destination for solo travellers is an interesting option, even though it is not so popular as other countries. What is the reason? Why is it not so popular? In my opinion it´s because of the lack of information about travelling to Slovakia on your own and it may be a bit too difficult to travel around just on your own. Therefore the majority of solo travellers come for a day or two to Bratislava and that´s it. Afterwards they head to Vienna or Budapest.

But there is a lot more to see and do outside of Bratislava. You just need to know where to go and how to get there. Hopefully this article will help you to spend some quality time in Slovakia. 😉

What are the places you really need to see?

I think you definitely shouldn´t miss out our mountians – Tatra and Fatra mountains or Slovak Paradise . Just depends on your preferences. The most impressive mountains are the High Tatras . If you want to experience something extraordinary, you should head to the Slovak Paradise to climb ladders along the waterfalls (not like Niagara, but still waterfalls). To get to these places you need to travel to Poprad and change there to visit Tatra mountains or Slovak Paradise.

To get to areas mentioned above you need to travel about 5 hrs from Bratislava. The good news is you don´t have to travel so long to hike in, for example, Fatra mountains , situated close to the town of Zilina, which is a bit more than 2 hrs away by train from Bratislava. Then just change for a bus and travel to Terchova.

Apart of mountains your bucket list should include places like Košice in the east of Slovakia and the Spiš region. In Spiš region can be found the majority of sites listed in UNESCO and it´s on the way from Bratislava to Košice. I think that you don´t need more than 1-2 days in Bratislava or Kosice.

Not so far from Bratislava is situated one of the most beautiful castles of Slovakia – Bojnice castle and the village of Čičmany with its unique houses. The ornaments painted on the houses made it into UNESCO Intangible Heritage list.

This is probably very important question. From my point of view Slovakia is a safe country. Of course you shouldn´t be walking at 3 AM through the city alone and avoid drunk bunch of guys, because you can get in trouble like anywhere else. Also pay attention to your bags in the shopping centeres and in the crowds, but otherwise there are not any major threats and you can travel around fearless.

Spoken languages

If you are visiting just Bratislava, you will be fine speaking English and you shouldn´t have any major troubles. However, you can expect it to be more difficult outside of Bratislava and especially when trying to speak with older people. They learned to speak Russian, so you can try that one, if you speak it 🙂

So always try to approach younger people when needed. The chance of getting a reply in English is higher.

Public transportation

Getting to the north of the country or travelling from the west to the east is easily doable by train. Travelling by train is more and more comfortable (some delays are not extraordinary) and trains go every hour or 2 hours. You can find all train connections at the website of Slovak Rail .

Visiting of less touristy places might be a bit problematic. It´s because you have to travel there by bus or better with hired car.

Prices in Slovakia

If you are travelling on budget, you should be aware of fact that Slovakia is becoming more expensive. (But in comparison with for example Iceland, Slovakia is really, really cheap country). 1 night for 1 person in a 3* hotel or family owned guesthouse costs around 30-50 EUR, depending pretty much on the region. But in hostels you can pay 15-20 EUR.

For a meal in a restaurant you will spend around 12 EUR/person. But transportation and services are still cheaper than in Western Europe. For example a train ticket from Bratislava to Tatra mountains, which is a 4 hour ride, costs around 13 EUR.

Other prices:

Espresso 1.50 – 2 EUR

Glass of wine 1.50 – 3.50 EUR

Bottle of beer 0.50 – 0.80 EUR

Draft beer 1.30 – 2 EUR

Bottle of wine 4 – 10 EUR

Shot in a bar 2 EUR

Loaf of bread 1 – 1.50 EUR

1 kg bananas 1.70 EUR

1l milk 0.8 EUR

You can pay with your card in 9 of 10 cases. For example it´s not possible to pay with card in mountain huts when you are hiking. Also you can´t pay with card for souvenirs buying in the streets.

Should I add anything? Let me know if you haven´t found what you were looking for.

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Bratislava Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Bratislava ? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

Capital and largest city of Slovakia, with a population of about 430,000 .
Located in the south-west of the country, on the banks of the Danube and Morava .
The political, cultural, business and economic center of the country.
Nicknames: Beauty on the Danube, Little Big City.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Currency: Euro (EUR).
Spoken languages: Slovak (English, German and Hungarian spoken by foreigners).
Best time to visit: from April to October (mild, continental climate with four seasons).
Arriving via airport: Bratislava International Airport is located close to the city. Take bus #61 , which will take you to the city center (Railway Station), or bus #96. You can also take a taxi to the city (Danube Airport or Breadis Taxi).

WHERE TO STAY

Best hostel for solo travelers in Bratislava: Urban Elephant (18-34 age only). Lots of nightly party events hosted with the partner hostel (Wild Elephant); this one is just a bit more relaxed and less crazy. Great atmosphere, welcoming staff, and clean rooms. Excellent central location, close to all the key attractions.
Most hotels are located on the right bank of the Danube. Prices are not as high as in other Western European capitals – visitors should be able to find an affordable hotel close to the city center.
Some good hotels also are located close to the Technical University and near Michalska Tower .

GETTING AROUND

Bratislava has an excellent public transport system – with buses, trams and trolleybuses. All these use the same ticket system, making it convenient to hop around town.
Tickets can be bought from newspaper kiosks or at automated (yellow) machines, located inside most stations. A ticket valid for 15 minutes (1 ride) costs €0.70 , while a ticket valid for 1 hour (multiple rides) costs €1.50 . An unlimited day-pass is €4.50 – tickets and passes are also available for multiple days.
Note : tickets must be stamped immediately after boarding.
Taxis are much cheaper than in other Western European capitals. There are over 20 companies, and it is usually cheaper to call for a taxi than flagging one down on the street.

BRATISLAVA NIGHTLIFE

Drinking age is 18 , no official last call (some clubs are open at night).
During the tourist season, Bratislava is filled with live music and crowds of young people on the streets all through the night. There are plenty of pubs, clubs and discos to offer enough options for nightlife entertainment.
Hip/local scene: in the narrow streets of the old town , and in the Hviezdoslavovo area (known to locals as the Korzo ).
Great bars: Kollarko, Meetnica (brewpub), Skupinová Terapia (day drinking), Bohéma Bar, and Bukowski Bar.
Cool underground bar to check out: Goblins Pub.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

Overlooking the city with its massive walls, the Bratislava Castle is hard to miss. Initially built in the Roman times, the castle has been modified over centuries – today, it houses the National Museum of Slovakia . Not to be missed.
Devin Castle is one of the oldest historical landmarks of Slovakia, strategically located on a cliff overlooking the confluence of the Danube and Morava rivers.
The Grassalkovich Palace . Built as a summer residence back in 1760, this stylish palace is now home to the country’s President.
No visit is complete without a look at the St. Martin Cathedral . Over 500 years old, this Gothic cathedral was built over an older Romanesque church. The cathedral has three naves, four chapels and many beautiful interior sculptures, paintings and decorations.
The city’s museums will satisfy any history buff. Some notable museums include: the National Historical and Musical Museum (inside the Castle), Natural Science Museum, Archaeological Museum, and the Museum of Clocks.
Other unique landmarks include: Michaels Gate, Old Town Hall, Primatial Palace, the Parliament, Reduta, Slavin, the New Bridge, Franciscan Church and Monastery, Capuchin Church and Monastery, and Trinity Church.

INTERESTING WALKS

An architectural treat: take a walk through the traffic-free streets of the old town .
Take a walk around the Bratislava Castle , taking in this massive landmark from every angle.
Take a walk along the banks of the Danube , from the Sheraton Hotel to the Botanical Garden.

LOCAL WISDOM

On a good day, treat yourself to a cruise along the Danube – this is one of the best ways to see the city.
Wake up like a local: start your day with a coffee at one of the many cafes located in the city center.
Slovakia is renowned for its local breweries – try a beer while you’re in town! Want to try authentic Slovak food paired with great beer? Head to Bratislavský Meštiansky Pivovar or Centrálna Klubovňa .
Great restaurants in Bratislava: Dolnozemská krčma ($$ – Slovak), Roxor ($$ – burgers), BeAbout ($$ – burgers), Góvinda reštaurácia (affordable vegetarian), Modrá Hviezda ($$$ – fine dining).
Where to find good cheap eats : food is very affordable in Bratislava – look for small cafes and restaurants serving traditional Slovakian food. Don’t forget to sample the local wine. Looking for the best kebabs in town? Head to Musafer FAST FOOD.
Dangerous areas : Bratislava is a very safe city. As a precaution, avoid the dark streets at night as well as the banks of the Danube.

Recommended trip duration: 3-4 days

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Slovakia Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

An aerial view of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, featuring historic buildings and plenty of greenery

Slovakia is a Central European country known for its dramatic mountainous landscapes, medieval history, and stunning architecture. As a land-locked country, it’s been part of numerous empires and governments throughout its history, all of which have left their own unique influence on the region.

I’ve visited Slovakia several times over the years and I’m always amazed at how much is packed into such a small country (as well as how few people visit beyond the capital). While Bratislava gets plenty of attention, the country as a whole sees a fraction of the crowds compared to its neighbors.

But their loss is your gain!

Slovakia is filled with beautiful rivers, lakes, national parks, tiny towns, and castle ruins. And compared to its neighbors it’s also quite affordable. It’s the perfect place to hike, road trip, and escape Europe’s summer crowds — all while on a budget!

This travel guide to Slovakia can help you save money, plan your visit, and make the most of your trip to this underrated gem!

Things to See and Do
Typical Costs
Suggested Budget
Money-Saving Tips
Where to Stay
How to Get Around
How to Stay Safe
Best Places to Book Your Trip
Related Blogs on Slovakia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Slovakia

1. Explore Bratislava

Bratislava is Slovakia’s capital and largest city. Bordering both Austria and Hungary, its position on the banks of the Danube make it an obvious point of entry for most travelers. Don’t miss the city’s Old Town and Bratislava Castle. There’s also an eclectic music scene here.

2. Visit Košice

Košice is the second-largest city in Slovakia, dating back to the 13th century. The city center encompasses the historic part of town and has the largest number of historical monuments in the country. Be sure to visit the 13th-century St. Elisabeth Cathedral.

3. See Banská Štiavnica

This well-preserved UNESCO medieval town sits in a valley formed after an ancient volcano collapsed. Be sure to visit the open-air mining museum, where you can walk more than a kilometer underground (10 EUR, an additional 15 EUR for a tour in English).

4. Hike Slovak Paradise National Park

Slovak Paradise National Park boasts over 100 kilometers (62-miles) of hiking trails, passing through canyons, meadows, and more waterfalls than you can count. The hiking isn’t difficult, but you must navigate narrow passages, climb steep ladders, and use chains above ravines.

5. Take a wine tour

Not far from Bratislava lies Modra, which is the place to go for wine tours and tastings. Look out for the annual Modra Wine Cellars Day, when many of the wine cellars in the area organize a day-long tasting for visitors. Expect to pay at least 40 EUR for a tour.

Other Things to See and Do in Slovakia

1. visit the slovak karst caves.

There are almost 2,500 caves in Slovakia — and only 400 of them have been explored. In the southern Slovak Karst region, there are plenty of options but if you want a truly unique experience, visit a section of Domica Cave where you can take an underground boat ride on the River Styx (trip to Hades not included). Admission including the boat ride is 9 EUR. Other caves worth checking out are Dobšinská Ice Cave, Harmanecka, and Gombasecka.

2. Go rock climbing

Head to the mountains around Terchová in the north or Slovenský Raj in the east for some world-class rock climbing. You’ll find beautiful gorges that you can climb for free thanks to the ropes and ladders already in place. If you’re new to rock climbing and would rather do a guided trip, expect to pay around 80 EUR per person.

3. Run the oldest marathon in Europe

The Košice Peace Marathon is the oldest marathon in Europe (and the second oldest marathon in the world). Held in Košice each year since 1924, the city is completely overtaken by the event as thousands come to take part, watch, and celebrate. The marathon happens on the first Sunday in October. If you want to run the race yourself, registration is 37 EUR. Be sure to book your accommodation far in advance as the entire city fills up.

4. Relax in a thermal cave bath

For a uniquely Slovakian experience, visit the Parenica cave bath at the Sklené Teplice spa. Located in Central Slovakia, these natural hot springs have been in use for centuries. The water is a constant 42°C (107°F) and is perfect for relaxing (especially if you’re visiting in the winter). Bath visits last 20 minutes and are included in your stay at the spa, which costs around 70 EUR per night.

5. Tour the Nedbalka Gallery

The Nedbalka Gallery in Bratislava has a spectacular award-winning design that resembles the Guggenheim Museum in New York City and is a stark contrast to the more traditional medieval buildings that make up the city’s Old Town. The gallery, which was heavily remodeled in 2012, spans five floors and is home to over 1,000 works depicting Slovak culture. Admission is 5 EUR and includes a coffee or tea at the gallery’s café.

6. Hike the smallest alpine mountain range in Europe

The most famous national park in Slovakia, High Tatras is located in the north of the country along the border with Poland . Stretching 53 kilometers (33 miles), it’s the smallest alpine mountain range in Europe. If you want to reach the peak of the High Tatras, Gerlachovsky Stit, you need to hire a mountain guide as the ascent is extremely challenging and not to be attempted alone. If you don’t want to hike (or want an easier option), Lomnicky Stit is slightly lower and far more accessible thanks to the cable car to the top. During the winter, there are several ski resorts here. Round-trip cable car tickets are expensive at 59 EUR, however, you can hike up part way and then take the cable car for half price.

7. Explore an ice cave

One of the most popular caves in the country is Dobšinská, an ice cave located near Dobšiná in Central Slovakia. Discovered in 1870, the caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first caves in Europe to be lit by electricity. The cave spans over 1,500 acres and is full of all kinds of stunning natural ice formations. Admission is 9 EUR for a 30-minute visit.

8. Visit the Old Market Hall (Stará tržnica)

Each Saturday between 9am-3pm the Old Market Hall in Bratislava hosts its weekly market where you can buy food and goods from regional farmers and producers. There’s also a children’s theater performance and book fair every Saturday. The current building dates to 1910, however, there were medieval fortifications here dating back to the 16th century. In addition to foods and produce, the market also hosts cultural events, music performances, two cafes, a brewery, and a cooking school. The Old Market Hall also hosts an annual beer festival (called Salón Piva) where you can sample the locally produced beer.

9. Go hiking

Slovakia is one of the best countries in Europe for hiking. There are hundreds of trails, including dozens of long-distance routes as well as easy, moderate, and challenging day hikes. Some hikes to check out are Rysy Mountain, near the border of Poland (20km, 10 hours); Kriván, considered Slovakia’s most beautiful mountain (6km, 4 hours); and Popradske Pleso, a picturesque alpine hike (4km, 2 hours). If you’re going hiking in the mountains, be sure to check the weather in advance as conditions can change rapidly. Always make sure you have the proper gear and plenty of water too.

10. Hit the slopes

The Tatra mountain range rivals the Alps when it comes to beauty. However, when it comes to skiing, there are fewer skiers and cheaper prices in Slovakia (lift tickets are upwards of 75% cheaper than in neighboring Austria). Some ski resorts to visit are Jasná Nízke Tatry (Liptovský Mikuláš), Relax Center Plejsy (Krompachy), Tale (Bystra), and Malinô Brdo (Ružomberok). Expect to pay around 49 EUR for a lift pass, however, you can find passes for as little as 8-16 EUR in places like Moštenica, Zliechov, and Skorušina.

Slovakia Travel Costs

Outside of Bratislava, budget hotel rooms start around 25-40 EUR per night. In Bratislava, expect to pay closer to double that.

Airbnb is a budget-friendly option available around the country with private rooms starting at 25 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 50 EUR per night.

For anyone traveling with a tent, camping is available around the country. Wild camping is legal but be sure to double-check as it is illegal in certain protected areas (no camping in the High Tatras or national parks, for example). You’re also not allowed to camp in forested areas and should use caution when lighting fires as this is generally prohibited. Official campgrounds are scattered around the country with basic plots for two without electricity costing 14-16 EUR per night.

Food – Slovakian cuisine is based on three main staples: pork, cabbage, and potatoes (much like many of its neighbors). Polish and Hungarian influences abound, so expect lots of soups, sauerkraut, breaded meats, and dumplings. Lunch is the main meal of the day, with soup being the most common main course. A popular local delicacy is jaternica , a blood sausage made with pig’s blood and buckwheat. Halušky (soft ptato dumplings) and schnitzel are two other popular traditional choices.

For an inexpensive meal of traditional cuisine, expect to pay around 7-12 EUR. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 5-7 EUR for a combo meal. Thai and Indian food can be found in a couple of the larger cities in the country, costing 8-13 EUR for a main dish.

If you want to splash out, a three-course meal of traditional cuisine costs around 20 EUR, including a drink.

Expect to pay between 1.50-2.50 EUR for a beer and about the same for a latte or cappuccino (if you buy beer at the grocery store it’s just 1-1.50 EUR). A glass of wine generally costs around 2.50-4 EUR.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 20-35 EUR for basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat. A medium-sized bag of pasta is less than 1 EUR, fresh buns (like croissants) are around .50 EUR while a loaf of bread is around 2 EUR. Cereal is around 1.50 EUR while a large bag of potato chips is 1.50-2 EUR.

If you’re vegan or vegetarian, Bratislava has tons of options. Beyond the large supermarkets (which have things like soy meat and alternative kinds of milk), there are a handful of vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants around the city, including Šmak (vegan sushi), Vegan Kiosk (vegan burgers and wraps), and La Donuteria (vegan and non-vegan donuts).

Other suggested places to eat in Bratislava include U Sedliaka (traditional Slovakian food), Mezcalli (Mexican food), and Next Apache (a small cafe that sells used books).

Backpacking Slovakia Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking Slovakia, my suggested budget is 45 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, doing free activities like walking tours and hiking, limiting your drinking, visiting some cheap attractions like museums or galleries, and using public transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of 105 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb apartment, eat out for most of your meals at budget-friendly restaurants serving traditional cuisine, go out for some drinks, take some guided tours, visit more paid attractions like the caves, and take the occasional taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 200 EUR, you can stay in a hotel, eat out at any restaurant you want, rent a car, drink as much as you want, and see as many castles and museums as you can handle! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Slovakia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Slovakia is one of the cheaper Central European countries and it’s easy here to travel on a budget. That said, if you’re looking for ways to trim your expenses, here are my favorite ways to save money in the country:

Take a free walking tour – Bratislava offers a handful of free walking tours which are a great way to get familiar with the city and its culture on a budget. Be Free Tours is the most popular tour company. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
Ride Flixbus – Flixbus is a budget-friendly way to get around the country (as well as the region). They have Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and decent enough seats for overnight and long-haul bus journeys.
Cook your own meals – Book accommodation with a kitchen so you can cook your own meals. Buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as going out to eat, but it does save money.
Get outdoors – The easiest way to keep active and save money is to get outdoors and explore Slovakia’s national parks. Most don’t charge an entry fee. Nature fills your days and avoids slimming your wallet!
Wild camp – If you really want to save money in Slovakia, bring your tent as wild camping is legal. You can pitch your tent on almost all public land throughout Slovakia. Just avoid national parks and forests.
Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing is a great way to not only save money, but you’ll also connect with a knowledgeable local who can help you better understand the country and its people.
Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water in Slovakia is safe so bring a reusable water bottle to avoid single-use plastic. A filtered bottle like LifeStraw ensures your water is safe and clean. It’s perfect for anyone planning to hike or explore the country’s national parks.

Where to Stay in Slovakia

The hostel scene in Slovakia does not disappoint. Most have reliable Wi-Fi, kitchens, and are clean and modern. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Slovakia:

Hostel Folks (Bratislava)
Wild Elephants Hostel (Bratislava)
The Ginger Monkey (High Tatras)
Happy Bull (Kosice)
Nitra Glycerin Hostel (Nitra)

How to Get Around Slovakia

Public transportation – For public transportation around cities, the fare is generally proportional to the duration of the journey. For example, in Bratislava, a 30-minute ride costs 0.90 EUR while a 60-minute ride costs 1.20 EUR. Day passes are available in most of the cities for around 4.50 EUR.

Bus – Flixbus is the most budget-friendly option to explore the country. The bus from Bratislava to Košice costs 22 EUR for the 6.5-hour journey. For Bratislava to Budapest, Hungary, the 2.5-hour bus ride ranges from 12-26 EUR while the one-hour trip from Bratislava to Vienna, Austria can be done for 9 EUR.

Trains – Trains are more expensive than buses and don’t reach as many destinations in the country. However, they’re a lot quicker. Bratislava to Poprad takes around 4 hours and costs 15 EUR. The 5.5-hour journey to Košice costs 18 EUR. The 2.5-hour trip to Budapest, Hungary costs 10 EUR while the 90-minute ride to Vienna, Austria costs 5 EUR.

Budget Airlines – There are no domestic flights around Slovakia.

Car Rental – Car rentals can be as low as 25 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. You need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to rent a vehicle.

When to Go to Slovakia

Slovakia has four distinct seasons. The summers are sunny and hot and see the biggest influx of visitors. July-August is the most popular time to visit, with daily highs around 27°C (81°F).

During the shoulder seasons, you avoid both the heat and the crowds. The best months to visit are between May-June or September-October, especially if you’re hiking. There are cooler temperatures and, in the fall, you get to see the leaves change. Expect temperatures around 20°C (68°F).

Winter is cold and snowy with temperatures dropping below freezing so I’d only visit if you plan on doing some winter sports, such as skiing.

How to Stay Safe in Slovakia

Slovakia is a very safe country to visit; it’s the 19th safest country in the world. Violent crime against tourists is virtually nonexistent. Pickpocketing can occur, however, especially in high-traffic areas such as Bratislava’s Old Town. Keep your valuables safely tucked away when in public just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If someone strikes up a conversation with you trying to sell something or if young children approach you, be on alert — their friend may be reaching for your wallet while you’re distracted.

If you’re worried about getting scammed, read this post on common travel scams to avoid.

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it while you’re hiking or overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you’re hiking here (especially doing alpine hiking in the mountains), make sure you let your hostel/hotel staff know just in case. Always bring a first aid kit as well as basic gear like a flashlight, raincoat, and extra food just in case.

If you experience an emergency, dial 158 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Slovakia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Slovakia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

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The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

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Your Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel in Bratislava, Slovakia

quickwhittravel

Updated May 25, 2021.

Who loves solo travel? We do! One of my most favorite trips ever–and favorite solo trips–was my visit to Bratislava in 2012. I still recommend this beautiful town to everyone who’ll listen–and today, that’s you! So here are some things you might be curious about if Bratislava is on your “to go” list!

Why Bratislava?

Why not? It’s beautiful, historic, and it boasts more than one castle! The people were very friendly, so any time I needed directions, all I had to do was ask! There was so much to keep me busy, including museums, historical sites, tours, and my favorite detail: a cannon ball that Napoleon’s army lodged into the side of a building over 200 years ago! They even paint it black against the rest of the building’s yellow paint so everyone knows it’s there!

Want more? Confessions of a Solo Female Traveler

Is it safe.

Yes! I felt 100% safe walking around there by myself. Slovakia is one of the safest countries in Europe! Be smart, don’t flash your money around, keep your eye on your phone–just do the normal stuff you do for safety purposes at home or anywhere else. Don’t go out drinking late at night. But really, people were so kind, and I never felt threatened.

Safety first! How to Travel Safely

How can i get there.

You can fly there, take a bus, or do what I did and take a train! There was a night train I took from Krakow, Poland, but you can basically take a train from anywhere in Europe! Nearby cities include Vienna, Prague, and Budapest!

Read on: Must Have Solo Travel Skills

Where to stay.

I always recommend staying as close to the city center or old town district as possible, and I recommend the same for Bratislava! The public transportation is good, but I personally always have a better experience wherever I go if I can walk everywhere I want to go instead of taking a bus or train in each day, so that’s what I recommend!

Get more: Your Ultimate Guide to Accommodations

How to stay occupied.

I was there for two days and wish I had planned to be there a full week! There was so much to see and do. Take a walking tour, count how many statues you find and choose a favorite, tour Bratislava Castle, visit the many museums in and around town, and take the bus over to Devin Castle! Make sure to gawk a while at the Blue Church (affectionately nicknamed by the locals as the “Smurf Church”), and dine on halusky in an historic restaurant!

For more, check out 10 Reasons to Visit Bratislava !

How to save money.

Take the FREE walking tours with Be Free Tours ! They have several to choose from, and I thought it was a fantastic way to get to know the city. The Slovak National Gallery has free admission, and don’t forget to admire the statues Bratislava is so famous for around town!

Also, plan your eating strategy: have a big breakfast, a late lunch, and snack on a little something in the evening instead of going for a big meal at the most expensive eating time of day! Bratislava was not an expensive destination, especially compared to many other countries on the Euro in Europe.

Hungry for more? What to Eat in Bratislava

Want more about solo travel? Check out my Solo Travel page! And find all my Slovakian travel resources on my Slovakia Page .

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Bratislava Solo Travel 2024: The Ultimate Guide for Solo Female Travelers

Last Updated on January 27, 2024 by gregor

A Comprehensive Guide to Solo Travel in Bratislava

Discover the best tips and experiences for solo female travel in Bratislava, Slovakia. This ultimate Bratislava Solo travel guide covers itineraries, day trips, and more.

As a gem of Eastern Europe, Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, holds a unique appeal for travelers. This guide delves into the experiences, safety measures, and tips to give you suitable knowledge for a fulfilled Bratislava solo travel experience. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a novice at solo travel, this Bratislava solo travel guide aims to equip you for your upcoming adventure in Slovak.

Why Choose Bratislava for Solo Travel?

A Compact and Walkable City : Bratislava’s size makes it perfect for solo travelers. You can easily explore the main attractions on foot, soaking in the city’s charm without the hassle of complex transportation.
Rich Cultural Tapestry : From medieval castles to contemporary art, Bratislava is a blend of history and modernity. The city’s cultural scene is vibrant, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters.
Friendly Locals : Slovakians are known for their hospitality. As a solo traveler, you’ll find locals warm and willing to share insights about their city.

Is Solo Travel Safe in Bratislava?

Bratislava is generally considered a safe city for wandering and exploring, even for solo travelers. Its low crime rates and friendly locals make it a welcoming destination for solo trips.

How Safe Is Bratislava For Solo Female Travelers?

Bratislava prides itself on being one of the safest cities in Europe for solo female travelers. Its well-lit and busy streets even in late hours and alert local police make it a place where solo female travelers can navigate comfortably.

The Safest Areas in Bratislava for Solo Travelers

The Old Town is one of the safest and most vibrant areas in Bratislava. It is also near important landmarks like the Bratislava Castle and the towering Martin’s Cathedral, making it easy and safe for solo travelers to explore at any time of the day.

Tips to Ensure Your Solo Trip to Bratislava Is Safe

Common tourist safety precautions apply in Bratislava’s case too. Always be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings secure, and keep emergency numbers handy. Trust your instincts and interact with locals who are often eager to assist tourists.

How to Plan Your Itinerary for a Solo Trip to Bratislava

Top attractions for solo travelers in bratislava.

Bratislava Castle : Offering panoramic views, this iconic castle is a must-visit.
Old Town : Wander through charming cobblestone streets and discover quaint cafes and historical buildings.
Danube River Promenade : Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride, offering stunning views and riverside cafes.
Devin Castle : A short trip from the city, this castle ruins provides a glimpse into the past and scenic views of the Danube.

Read more on my Blog Post Best things to do in Bratislava, Slovakia

26 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SLOVAKIA, TOP ATTRACTIONS

Planning a Day Trip Around Bratislava

Start with a hearty breakfast at a cosy cafe in the city center, and let the tram be your guide to all corners of the city. Don’t miss out on a stroll by the Danube River.

Worthwhile Day Trips from Bratislava

If you have a few extra days in Bratislava, planning a day trip to the neighboring cities like Vienna in Austria or Budapest in Hungary is highly recommended.

Vienna to Bratislava: A Side Trip For Solo Travelers

Travel options from vienna to bratislava.

From Vienna, the bustling city of Bratislava can be easily accessed via train, bus, or even a boat ride across the Danube.

Recommended Day Itinerary for Vienna to Bratislava Day Trip

Start early from Vienna to make the most of your day. Spend your morning exploring the historical sites, take a leisurely lunch at a Bratislava flagship restaurant, and devote your evening to the scenic river and vibrant nightlife.

What to Expect from Your Vienna to Bratislava Trip

With its juxtaposition of historic charm and modern elegance, a Vienna to Bratislava day trip promises a blend of cultural heritage, exquisite cuisine, and unforgettable experiences.

Where to Eat and Stay in Bratislava as a Solo Traveler

Best places to eat in bratislava for solo travelers.

Dining Alone in Bratislava? No Problem!

Slovak Cuisine : Try traditional dishes like Bryndzové Halušky in cozy taverns.
Café Culture : Bratislava’s cafes are solo-diner friendly, offering a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a coffee or a light meal.
Street Food : Don’t miss out on the vibrant street food scene, a great way to sample local flavors.

Solo Traveler-Friendly Accommodations in Bratislava

Stay in the old town or the city center, where you’ll find plenty of solo traveler-friendly accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to homely hostels.

Top 15 Best Hotels in Bratislava – Luxurious Retreats and Affordable Comfort : Shares a selection of the top 15 hotels in Bratislava, ranging from luxurious retreats to budget-friendly options.

How to Navigate Nightlife as a Solo Traveler in Bratislava

The nightlife in Bratislava is versatile and dynamic, with something for every kind of solo traveler, from cosy jazz bars to vibrant clubs. Always remember to stay vigilant and to prioritize your safety while enjoying your night.

Best Things to Do and See in Bratislava at Night : Explore Bratislava’s nightlife with this guide, which includes romantic boat rides on the Danube River and a unique self-guided scavenger hunt through the city’s historic landmarks.

Essential Travel Tips for a Solo Trip to Bratislava

The best time to visit bratislava.

Bratislava is worth visiting all year round, but the best time is between April and October, when the weather is pleasant and the city is flush with seasonal events and festivals.

Must-Have Travel Apps for a Bratislava Solo Travel

To aid your solo trip to Bratislava, consider downloading travel apps for translation, and navigation, and to get suggestions on the best places to eat, stay, and visit.

Everything You Need to Know Before Your Bratislava Trip

Pack accordingly for the weather, keep some Euros handy, and brush up on a few common phrases in Slovak.

Embarking on a Bratislava solo travel adventure is an enriching experience. The city’s charm, cultural heritage, and the warmth of its people make it an ideal destination for solo travelers.

Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in Bratislava

Stay in Well-Lit Areas : Bratislava is generally safe, but as with any city, stick to well-lit, populated areas at night.
Keep Valuables Secure : Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Local Emergency Numbers : Always have the local emergency numbers handy.

Must Read Solo Travel Guides Before Visiting Bratislava

26 Best Things to do in Bratislava (Slovakia) : This article offers a comprehensive list of 26 top activities and attractions in Bratislava, ideal for tourists looking to explore the city’s diverse offerings from historical landmarks to cultural experiences.
Day trip from Vienna to Bratislava – Planning a Vienna to Bratislava Day Trip : A perfect guide for those planning a day trip from Vienna to Bratislava, covering the must-see attractions and providing a practical itinerary for a short visit.
Top 10 Best Bratislava Private Tours (in 2024) : This post details the top 10 private tours in Bratislava, offering personalized experiences for various interests, from history to culinary exploration.
Best Activities and Attractions in Bratislava : Offers valuable tips on must-see places and experiences in Bratislava, perfect for tourists seeking to discover the city’s best activities and attractions.
Top 8 Best Bratislava Guided Tours (in 2024) : Highlights the top 8 guided tours in Bratislava, including a craft beer tasting tour and a comprehensive city tour.
Best Hotels in Bratislava: Shares a selection of the top 15 hotels in Bratislava, ranging from luxurious retreats to budget-friendly options.

Each of these articles from The Vienna Blog provides in-depth and practical information for anyone planning to Solo Travel to Bratislava, covering a wide range of topics from day trips to accommodations.

Experience unforgettable moments in Vienna

Solo travel in prague: plan a solo trip to prague, czech republic.

Anna Sherchand

Solo Female Travel Blog

Solo travel to Bratislava including legit travel tips

If you are looking to solo travel to Bratislava, ever-so-slightly ‘off the beaten track’ city destinations, you will find this article helpful because not only I am covering the best places to visit in Bratislava alone but also all essential Bratislava travel tips for first-timers ie visa, accommodation, food to try, the best time to visit, where to go, activities and day trips from Bratislava also. It is going to be a solid itinerary for you but also giving you plenty of room to adjust.

Bratislava is the capital and largest city of Slovakia and is located on the borders with Austria and Hungary which makes it the only national capital that borders between two countries.

It is also renowned for having the world’s highest number of castles, chateaux and more than 6000 caves! With a remarkably diverse nature, unique castles, caves, mountains, hot springs, folk architecture, and more there is something all nature lovers. Their official language is Slovak and in 2004 since joining the European union euro is their local currency.

Bratislava Tips

How to get to Bratislava?

How to get around bratislava, how many days in bratislava is enough, where to stay in bratislava, do i need a visa for bratislava, when is the best time to visit bratislava, how safe is bratislava for a solo female traveler, local currency, people, language and wifi, must-have travel apps for bratislava, what to eat in bratislava, where to eat in bratislava, solo travel to bratislava, best places to visit in bratislava, best place to watch sunsets in bratislava.

Let me know in the comments:

To reach Slovakia by plane, you can fly to M.R. Stefanik Bratislava International Airport which is situated only half an hour’s drive by bus from the center of the town. Another option is the Vienna International Airport which is located only 50km from Bratislava.

If flying is not your style, you can visit from vienna to Bratislava day trip! It costs €11.20 each way in 2nd class. On the sleeper train, berths are sold individually, so one ticket means one bed, the other beds in your compartment will be sold to other passengers. For sole occupancy, simply book 1 ticket in a 1-berth sleeper, 2 tickets in a 2-berth sleeper, 4 tickets in a 4-berth couchette & so on.

Alternatively, you could take an overnight ferry from Austria to Slovakia. Currently, there is just the 1 ferry company operating this ferry service, Twin City Liner. The Vienna Bratislava ferry route connects these two countries and operates up to 21 times each week with sailing durations from around 1 hour 15 minutes.

Walking around the old town to get the feel of it. Then using either using a car, tram or trolley bus, and taxies to explore more. If your plans are to see some of the countrysides away from the main city, you should consider renting a car because it offers the most flexibility. There are international car renting companies in Bratislava such as Hertz or Avis.

Trolley Buses/buses are quite reliable also. You can buy the tickets at machines next to bus stops and newsstands and don’t forget to validate on board (or risk a legally enforceable €50 to €70 fine). Passes start at €6.90/8 for 24/72 hours. Tickets cost €0.70/0.90/1.20 for 15/30/60 minutes.

Important Bus lines are 93 Main train station to Hodžovo nám then Petržalka train station Trolleybus 207 Hodžovo nám to Bratislava Castle Trolleybus 210 Bratislava bus station to main train station

Alternatively, you can download Uber for going around in Bratislava. Here is the $10 off your first ride on the Uber app. Use code ‘k7zapn’ to sign up. Enjoy! Details: https://www.uber.com/invite/k7zapn

Although I like staying until my visa runs out in each country, I would say 2 days is the ideal time to spend in Bratislava or at least do Bratislava one day trip! You can start your journey in Bratislava, explore major attractions in the city then get on trains to make a day trip or two if you have more time.

If you don’t want to stay in expensive hotels or cheap dirty hostels, the easy alternative is to stay at Airbnb. You can even wash the bedsheets once you arrive as Airbnbs usually come with washing and laundry. You would be spoilt for choice in some of the best neighborhoods which are, Staré Mesto (“Old Town” city center), Petrzalka (Petrzalka is the largest municipality in Bratislava), Nové Mesto (Nové Mesto literally means “New Town”) and Rusinov (Bratislava’s second-largest district).

Open a new Airbnb account with my link and use this $50-70 Airbnb discount for your first booking.

If your passport is from the AUS, UK, US, EU, and EEA (EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland) you do not require Visa to enter Slovakia and you can stay up to 90 days in Bratislava just with a visa on arrival stamp. That said, the authorities may ask for the return air or ferry ticket. That being said, I highly recommend checking the official website online or with your local embassy to find out if your country requires a Slovak visa.

The best times to visit Bratislava are between April to September because during these months the climate is moderately continental ie summers are warmer with little rainfall and winters stay cold and humid.

First of all, let’s establish the understanding of solo traveling is brutality! It forces you to trust strangers and to lose sight of all that familiar comfort of home and friends. You are constantly off balance. Nothing is yours except the essential things – air, sleep, dreams, the sea, the sky – all things tending towards the eternal or what we imagine of it.

That being said, I felt it was safe to travel for solo female travelers. So unless there is a drastic change in the country’s political situation, pandemic, or some natural disaster it is safe to travel to Bratislava. Just remember to apply a general rule of thumb i.e. Don’t walk down that dark alleyway on your own, respect the culture, don’t argue about religion, dress modestly, trust your instincts, don’t be afraid but be cautious.

The local currency is Euros and was Slovak crowns early on. The Slovak Republic joined the Euro-zone as of January 1, 2009, the Euro is therefore the official currency. Remember to consider bank fees from your bank and the ATM withdraw fee while you do your budget.

Slovak people love their beer and meat (more on that below). Slovak, English, German, and Polish are all the languages you will hear local speak. In most tourist places such as in Bratislava center, you will find English speaking people otherwise it is not very common.

There’s free Wi-Fi access all around Bratislava in Book-stores around the city. Hot spots can be found on Primaciálne (Primate’s Sq., 2 CV 22) Square. Internet access is also available at the BKIS (top of page). In the Old Town, there are several internet cafés: Klarinet, Klariská 4 ( 2 CQ 22), open Mon – Fri 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., Sat, Sun 3 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Almost every coffee shop and restaurant offer free wifi connection or hotspots for their customers.

Google Translate for easy translation of local language and it’s extremely simple to use!

Google Maps because it has very good coverage of Bratislava, including Street View.

Google Drive , Calendar , Notes for time management, noting down things on a fly and storing pictures.

Uber for taxi rides or share, convenient taxi app. Here is the $10 off your first ride on the Uber app. Use code ‘k7zapn’ to sign up. Enjoy! Details: https://www.uber.com/invite/k7zapn

App Hopintaxi can be used to call a taxi.

Citylife.sk is a portal with a list of current cultural events in Bratislava, available also as an app

IMHD.SK for public transportation. You will find this app useful if you plan to use public transportation in Bratislava.

Slovakian food is meat-heavy cuisine- Meat, meat, meat! Although the famous (and national) local dish is bryndzové halušky – potato dumplings (similar to gnocchi) served with sheep’s milk cheese. Although I found it a little too on a heavy side, It’s a must-try and other common dishes I liked and recommend to try are lokše – baked potato pancakes, Cabbage soup (kapustnica – a soup made with sausage and sauerkraut), Pork with dumplings and cabbage (Vepřo knedlo zelo), Goulash soup (Gulášová polievka), Fried cheese with French fries and tartar sauce (Vyprážaný syr), Schnitzel (Vyprážaný rezeň), Potato pancakes (Zemiakové placky), Funnel cake (Trdelnik) and Slovak pancakes (Slovenske palacinky).

Bratislava’s old town ha tons of restaurants and bars to choose from. Elegant dining at Zylinder, Modern Slovakian culinary delights at Modrá Hviezda, the 16th-century building at Prašná Bašta, local Slovak Pub, Bratislavský Meštiansky Pivovar, Hradna Hviezda – luxury dining, or Bratislava Flag Ship Restaurant are some places that are recommended.

Now that we got the practical tips out of the way, let’s get into the best places to visit during your solo travel to Bratislava and day trips from it.

One of the best ways to explore the most significant landmarks in Bratislava is to join a walking tour. Especially if you solo travel to Bratislava, this is a great way to meet fellow travelers and get familiar with the city with the help of licensed, professional guides. There are many types of walking tours available from the public to private tours ranging from 1 to 3 hours.

Regardless of whether you join the tour or not, I do hope you get to visit the must-see places in Bratislava which are the Blue Church, St. Martin’s Cathedral, Bratislava Castle, St. Michael’s Gate, Old Town Hall, Devin Castle, taking a photo with Cumil, the hidden Primate’s Palace, Old Building of the Slovak National Theatre, B-S 4 Museum (Czechoslovak Fortification Museum), Kazmik Radio Tower, Slavin Memorial, Primatial Palace, Nedbalka Gallery, Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum, Bratislava Zoo, Bratislava Transport Museum, Bratislavsky Mestiansky Pivovar craft brewery, Slovak National Gallery, and Panoramic views from UFO Observation Deck.

For a breath of fresh air in Bratislava head to Horsky Park, Sad Janka Kráľa, and a bit far to the Tatra mountains national park.

There are many places you can watch the sunsets in Bratislava. My personal favorite is the UFO Tower because it offers the best views of the city, from the Old Town to the north, Danube river, and residential areas in the south, making it a great spot for sunset and seeing the city at night.

Another spot I recommend is Sundeck. Not only it offers a great view but also delicious food, perfect music perfectly chosen to fit the actual atmosphere and views.

Day trips from Bratislava

During your solo travel to Bratislava, if you have a spare day or two, it is a perfect opportunity to get out of the city to see more of what Slovakia has to offer. Head to Červený Kameň Castle, the Sunny Lakes in Senec, Nitra (the oldest town in Slovakia), Small-Carpathian Wine Route (wineries and dine), Water Sports in Čunovo (water sports), Trnava (largest medieval towns of Central Europe in the 13th century), Piešťany Spa Resort, World War II Bunkers, and visit Brno (the second-largest city in the Czech Republic).

If you are after nature consider hiking in Devinska Kobyla Park, and Urban Exploring at Devínska Kobyla Abandoned Missile Base. Discover hidden gems such as Banská Štiavnica, Trenčín, and Trnava.

You can even take a boat trip to Vienna, Austria , Lake Neusiedl (the largest lake in Austria), visit Budapest (only 2 hours’ drive from Bratislava) If you don’t feel like exploring alone, you can join any of the private or group tours below.

I hope this solo travel to Bratislava gave you an insight into traveling Bratislava alone.

Let me know in the comments :

If you have any questions about this solo travel to Bratislava
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Solo Travel Guide: Bratislava City, Slovakia

Bratislava: A city of friendly faces, quaint streets, gothic charm, and unusual foods.

I was on the boat heading along the infamous Danube River from Austria. Tree-lined canals on both sides, and we finally made our stop in Bratislava City. Walking through the medieval gate was reminiscent of a fairytale town I had once dreamt of visiting. Cobblestone streets, pastel-colored architecture, and burnt-orange rooftops. A charming capital in the heart of Eastern Europe.

Where is Bratislava?

Wedged between 5 other countries, the capital city is located in the South Western region of Slovakia. Bordering Austria and Hungary, it’s the only capital that borders two other countries.

It’s quite easy to visit if you’re traveling from another European country via buses, trains, or boats. I personally took a boat straight from Vienna to Bratislava, and arrived in a little over an hour!

The Best Time To Visit

Slovakia definitely experiences all four seasons throughout the year. From blistering winters to humid summers, there’s no ‘bad’ time to visit this beautiful country.

January sees temperatures as low as 23F, while July gets close to the 80’s. It all depends what you’re in the mood for. Cozy Christmas Markets or scorching lake days — take your pick!

If you’re looking for a warm temperature, outdoor restaurants, and boat trips, then spring-summer is for you. Obviously like most places in Europe, summer tends to bring the crowds, but it’s still a great time to visit this charming city to witness it at its best.

What to do in Bratislava

Hop on the mini tourist train , that weaves throughout the city and its side-streets. Your tour guide will explain the history and important focal points you’ll pass. Your group will make a stop at Bratislava Castle, where you’ll have some free time to wander around the grounds and take in the beautiful scenery of Bratislava City.

After a relaxing train ride, test your stamina by climbing to the top of St Michael’s Gate . In medieval times the city was fortified, and this gate is the last remnant. If you have time, climb again to the top of the lookout tower for incredible views.

Stroll through the stores on the main street to find handmade gifts, then relax and do some people watching around the Old Town Square.

After all the activity, it’s time to fill your belly on Obchodna Street. Find a traditional, Slovakian restaurant and try some local dishes! Cabbage soup, pierogi, or goulash soup- it’s all amazing!

First Impressions of the City

The people are incredibly proud of their country and its beauty. If you’re doing a day tour, ask questions, smile, and appreciate the country too!

The food is carb and meat heavy, but absolutely delicious (One side of my family is Polish, and I could definitely see the comparisons in the dishes).

There’s a large drinking culture. Most of Europe is known for their laid-back lifestyles and excellent work-life balance, but Eastern Europeans beat all when it comes to drinking culture. If you wander the streets, you’re sure to find a happy hour, wine tasting, or beer hall.

Bratislava is a small city, so I’d recommend a day tour if you’re short on time. If you’re flexible, then definitely make Bratislava your home base (as it’s very safe for solo travelers), and then explore the rest of the country at your own pace).

It’s cheap (if you go to the right places). Obviously Bratislava is a hub for tourists, but if you meander through the side streets and find off-the-beaten-path places, then you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Beer in Slovakia is typically 96 cents, and street food ranges from 1-3 dollars (so budgeters, take note!)

Where to Stay in Bratislava

Personally when I solo travel, I prefer being closer to a City Center or Old Town where there are people around. While there’s a slew of options to choose from in Bratislava City, these are some suggestions that are close to the restaurants and tourist attractions.

Hostel Options

Urban Elephants (9.0)
Wild Elephants (9.0)
Hostel CHORS (9.0)
Patio Hostel (8.0)

Hotel Options

Marrol’s Boutique Hotel
Arcadia Boutique Hotel
Falkensteiner Hotel
AC Hotel Bratislava Old Town
Apart Hotel Virgo

Common Scams

Like anywhere in the World, as a solo traveler it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings, think smart, and don’t be naive! Bratislava City is overall a very safe pick for those traveling alone, but there are still some things to be aware of before you visit.

There’s no need to hide everything, but just be aware of pickpockets — especially in overpopulated areas and the Old Town of Bratislava.
Look out for overcharging or incorrect change. It’s quite common in Europe, so be sure you know your currency and exchange rate before traveling anywhere. Switching to Euros in 2019, it’ll be easier to figure out — but keep checking t o stay on top of it!

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Slovakia Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice

This post may contain affiliate links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here and our Privacy Policy here .

Welcome to the Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice page for Slovakia !

This page is brought to you by Solo Female Travelers Tours , our curated small group trips for women, by women.

On this page you will find first-hand, unbiased, and real safety tips, advice and reviews from women traveling solo, submitted directly from their personal experiences in the country.

Their opinions are unfiltered and submitted independently as part of the Solo Female Travel Safety Index , a ranking of 210 countries and regions based on how safe they are for women traveling solo.

The safety scores range from 1 to 4 with 1 being the safest and 4 being the most dangerous for solo female travelers.

You don’t need to login to read the below reviews. But do sign up or login to share your solo travel experiences, country safety rating and comments.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE – LEAVE YOUR SAFETY REVIEWS! We can make the world a safer place for women traveling solo together. Sign up to our portal and leave your reviews NOW. Share your experience with other solo female travelers and help us empower more women through travel.

Slovakia Country data

We have compiled a few data points below that can help you better understand Slovakia and have more context when thinking about travel safety.

Official country name: Slovak Republic.

Etymology: The name may derive from the medieval Latin word "Slavus" (Slav), which had the local form "Sloven", used since the 13th century to refer to the territory of Slovakia and its inhabitants.

Country map

Locator map

Capital: Bratislava.

Independence / foundation: After the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire at the close of World War I, the Slovaks joined the Czechs to form Czechoslovakia. On 1 January 1993, Czechoslovakia underwent a nonviolent "velvet divorce" into its two national components, Slovakia and the Czech Republic.

Population: 5 million.

Currency: Euro (EUR) 1 USD = 0.91 - 0.93

Time zone: UTC+1

Languages spoken: Slovak (official) 82%, Hungarian 8%, Roma 2, other 2%, unspecified 6%.

Religions: Roman Catholic 56%, Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession 5%, Greek Catholic 4%, Reformed Christian 2%, other 3%, none 24%, unspecified 6%.

Climate: Temperate climate with cool summers and cold, cloudy and humid winters.

Real GDP (ppp – purchasing power parity): $180 billion.

Real GDP per capita (ppp): $33,200.

Main airports: Bratislava's M R Štefánik Airport.

World heritage sites in Slovakia

There are over 1,100 world heritage sites spread across more than 165 countries. New ones are added every year, and some may be removed from the list for various reasons.

Number of UNESCO listed sites : 8.

Top world heritage sites :

Interesting facts about Slovakia

Slovakia Travel tips

Socket type: C / E / F. Guide to socket types .

Weekend days: Saturday and Sunday.

Driving: Cars drive on the Right.

Local taxi apps: Uber , Hopin .

Travel Guides: Lonely Planet , Bradt Guide .

Languages spoken : Slovak (official) 82%, Hungarian 8%, Roma 2, other 2%, unspecified 6%.

Basic words and phrases in the main language:

Find a hotel in Slovakia

Book tours and activities :

More about Slovakia on Solo Female Travelers

Did you spot any errors? We do our best to keep this information updated and accurate, but things change. If you saw anything that is not right, let us know so we can fix it: [email protected] .

About the Solo Female Travel Safety Index

Safety matters to solo female travelers, you told us so in our annual Solo Female Travel Survey , where year after year, women prove that this is their most important concern when traveling solo.

We wanted to do something about it, so we built these country-specific pages where you can find reviews and scores for 7 key variables affecting the safety of women traveling solo.

Risk of scam
Risk of theft
Risk of harassment
Attitudes towards women
UK Travel Advisory
US Travel advisory
Global Peace Index (GPI)

Informing OSAC

The Solo Female Travel Safety Score is used by the Overseas Security Advisory Council for including safety concerns for women travelers in their country security reports; OSAC is a partnership between the U.S. Department of State and private-sector security community.

How to use the Safety Index

On this page, you will find the country score and the personal opinions on safety of other women traveling solo.

You can sort the comments by:

The level of experience traveling solo of the reviewer (beginner = <5 trips solo, Intermediate = 5 to 10 trips solo, Experienced = >10 trips solo).
The age of the traveler.
Whether they are a visitor or local .
The date they were posted.

The safety scores range from 1 to 4 with 1 being the safest and 4 being the most dangerous for solo female travelers.

Thus, the lower the score, the safer the country.

Looking for more safety resources?

This entire website is devoted to helping women travel solo. Check out the links below to learn more:

Solo Female Travel Stats : Results from the the largest, most comprehensive and only global research study on solo female travel trends, preferences and behaviors published.

Thanks to Jacobo Vilella for creating the Solo Female Travelers Safety Index ❤️

Latina Travel Blog

Girl Takes Mundo

MIS CHICAS VIAJERAS, LAS INVITO A QUE TRADUZCAN ESTA PÁGINA Y SU CONTENIDO AL ESPAÑOL

Slovakia for solo women travelers.

While working in Austria, I indulged my wanderlust, searching for nearby destinations on a world map, reminiscent of my former nomadic lifestyle. Balancing my work trip with a touch of my adventurous nature felt like a perfect complement. As a former full-time traveler, I’ve come to understand that the pursuit of new adventures continues, even if it’s not a constant lifestyle, signifying that my Girl Takes Mundo journey is merely transitioning, not concluding. And that’s how this Slovakia for Solo Women Travelers article came to be.

Slovakia for Solo Women Travelers Table Of Contents

Why Visit Slovakia

How did I decide on Slovakia you wonder? It’s hard not to resist visiting a country that is younger than you are and that didn’t even exist when you were born. Slovakia became a country in 1993, yet, Slovakia is full of history being formerly part of what was once Czechoslovakia. With its communist background and alignment with Hitler during his Nazi era, one can only touch the tip of the iceberg in understanding the roots and origins of this country today.

Due to this history, and what has been seen with other countries with a troublesome past like Colombia and Egypt , only as of recently has Slovakia also begun to see the surge of tourists, like myself, finally coming to experience the marvels of such a culturally beautiful and naturally condensed country.

FYI: I’ve had the pleasure of visiting both Colombia and Egypt and recommend for Latina travelers. Perfectly safe as long as you practice common traveler safety. Click country links to see my travel guides.

What To Expect From Slovakia

While exploring Slovakia for 8 days, two themes kept emerging during my Latina solo trip.

Slovakia’s Unique From Its Neighbors

Despite its size and historical past, Slovakia has a rich and truly unique culture. Visiting Slovakia truly felt like I was emerging myself into a different world than I had experienced from its neighboring countries of Austria, Hungry and Poland which was a misconception I had before visiting. Contrary to my belief, Slovakia is filled with unique gastronomy, attractions like castles, caves, national parks and Unesco World Heritage sites.

Slovakia’s Tourist Industry Isn’t Big

A second theme that seemed reasonable given its history was its lack of tourist industry outside of Bratislava and English language comprehension. Even I, the self-proclaimed travel guru that I am basked in a language barrier but can assure you that you don’t need to be a travel guru to easily overcome this while traveling here. (Just find someone young.)

Additionally, lacking a tourism industry doesn’t mean seeing and experiencing beautiful things isn’t possible. It simply means you will get a more authentic taste of a country.

So, go ahead, don’t skip Slovakia while you are traveling through Central Europe.

Plan Your Slovakia for Solo Women Travelers Visit

Slovakia Travel Tips

Ways To Get Around Slovakia

Additional Slovakia Bus Tips

Read bus time routes at the bus stop you get dropped off.
Don’t assume buses will come at the time the sign says they will or stop where the sign is. For example, bus schedules in Banska Stiavnica can be unreliable. After waiting for three hours past the scheduled time, I took initiative, asking various bus drivers and fellow travelers if they were heading to Bratislava. Eventually, by seeking out English speakers and finding the last bus, I successfully journeyed from Banska Stiavnica to Bratislava.
Be sure to have enough cash for the bus ticket which should roughly be the same price as the original ticket purchased to said city.

Slovakia For Solo Women Travelers – Cities To Visit

Explore bratislava.

For Latina solo travelers, Bratislava in Slovakia is an inviting blend of history and modernity. Its enchanting old town, lively bars, and iconic castle make a perfect 2-3 day visit. Don’t miss Bratislava Castle, St. Michael’s Gate, and Primate’s Palace. Enjoy a walk in the Danube and savor local treats at the Old Market Hall, all highlighted in this Woman’s Travel Handbook To Bratislava below.

Woman’s Travel Handbook to Bratislava

Explore Banska Stiavnica

This chica viajera loved exploring Banska Stiavnica, a stunning former mining town nestled in Slovakia’s hills and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s no wonder many choose it for a city break. It paints a vivid picture of life beyond Bratislava. The town’s charm, natural beauty, and ease of exploration on foot made it nearly irresistible. I almost had to extend my stay, fearing I missed the last bus to Bratislava on my final day. Enjoy this pocket-sized guide to discover this UNESCO site too!

City Break To Banska S tiavnica

Explore Trnava

Trnava, known as the “Slovak Rome,” holds a rich history with 11 churches, earning its nickname “Little Rome.” As a Latina solo traveler wanting to see more than just the capital of Slovakia, I ventured out to Trnava on a day trip. The town’s quaint streets revealed its historical significance as the former capital for the Catholic Church of the Hungarian kingdom post the Ottomans’ Esztergom destruction. This guide aims to make it easier for you to also visit this city in a day.

Trnava Slovakia’s Rome – 1-Day Visit

Taste Of Slovakia

During my solo trip in Slovakia, I discovered the country’s rich culinary heritage as I ate away, delighting myself with its top gastronomic gems. The hearty, traditional dishes, like the iconic “halušky” with bryndza cheese, and the strong, aromatic “slivovica” plum brandy, capture the essence of this young yet tradition-rich nation. Each item represented in my “Slovak Treats & Drinks For Travel Foodies” article showcases not just flavors but a journey through Slovakia’s cultural origins, inviting both Latina travelers and tourists to savor the essence of Slovakian gastronomy.

Slovak Treats & Drinks For Travel Foodies

Other Countries To Also Visit Near Slovakia

Many travelers like myself visited Slovakia as you don’t need many days to visit, its budget friendly and can easily be added while visiting other countries on a Europe holiday.

These countries include

Czech Republic

Want to discover where else you can visit in Eastern Europe?

See my Travel Guide Section for tips and recommendations for other bordering countries mentioned above. Learn how to get there, where to stay, eat and what to do!

Disclaimer: This Slovakia for Solo Women Travelers article may contain affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, we receive a small commission on purchases made through these links. By making a purchase using these links, you are directly supporting and allowing me to continue providing you with free high-quality travel guides. Thank you!

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Home > One Week In Slovakia Itinerary

One Week In Slovakia Itinerary

Written by our local expert Guru

Written by a local specialist we know and trust to bring you the most up-to-date travel information.

Here is your one-week in Slovakia itinerary. Castles, mountains, and where to stay are all covered in this Slovakia guide written by Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad.

Slovakia wouldn’t come to mind for most people when thinking of the perfect place to vacation, but it’s definitely one of the most underrated dream destinations on Earth.

This country has so much to offer, whether it’s a quiet nature getaway or a historical journey back to Medieval times. Better yet, it has something for every kind of traveler , whether you’re into history, nature, culture, or adventure.

This one-week itinerary takes you to some of the most remarkable places to visit in Slovakia , from the magical fairytale castles to the majestic mountain ranges.

You’ll discover tons of hidden gems in this country that you might have never heard of before, and let’s be real — Slovakia definitely deserves more of your time than just a day trip to Bratislava! So, without further ado, here’s how to spend one swell week in Slovakia.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Day 1: Bratislava

Bratislava castle, Where to stay in Slovakia Accommodation

Spend your first day exploring the capital of Slovakia, home to a charming Old Town and a historic castle on a hill. Start by wandering the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where you can learn a lot about the history of Bratislava.

The Old Town is relatively small, and you can quickly go from one end to the other in just 10 minutes. However, there are tons of shops and cafes there, so you can take it slow, relax, and enjoy your time in this historic neighborhood.

The medieval Michael’s Gate is one of the main things to see in the Old Town. It houses a museum of the armory, and you can also climb up its tower to get a nice view of the area. Afterward, stop by St. Martin’s Cathedral, the largest church in the city, and the Old Town Hall, one of the oldest buildings in Bratislava. You can get another fantastic bird’ s-eye view of the Old Town from the top of the Town Hall Tower.

Don’t leave Bratislava without stopping by the unique Blue Church, the UFO Observation Deck, and its two main castles: Devin Castle and Bratislava Castle. You can even take a free Bratislava walking tour that takes you to all the most remarkable spots in town in 2.5 hours.

Be sure to stop by Zeleny Rodrigéz for some delicious local food, and stay at one of the many hotels and guesthouses in the Old Town.

Here is where to stay in Bratislava.

Brands we use and trust, day 2: bojnice castle + čičmany.

Slovakia Itinerary - Things to do in Slovakia - Bojnice Castle

After exploring the capital of Slovakia, rent a car and drive east to Bojnice Castle, rated by many as the most beautiful castle in the whole of Central & Eastern Europe. It’ll take about 2 hours to reach the castle from Bratislava, and it should take around 2-3 hours to explore it all.

Bojnice Castle was built in the 12th century and has tons of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance influence in its architecture. It costs 13 euro to enter and tour the castle, and you can see some pretty cool interior decor there.

Even more impressive is the large garden surrounding the castle. Walking around, you’ll get an incredible view of the castle, which you can enjoy from various angles and perspectives. The garden is also a great place to have a picnic.

Once you’re done exploring Bojnice Castle, drive 45 minutes north to the tiny village of Čičmany. This unique village is remarkably well-preserved and is characterized by its many black timber houses with white geometrical patterns painted on them. It’s a great place to learn about traditional Slovak folk art and what village life was like back in the days.

You can do a guided tour of the village once you get there, and then have some traditional local cuisine at the village restaurant. Stay the night at Kaštieľ Čičmany, a very friendly and cozy family-run hotel.

Day 3: Vlkolínec + Orava Castle

On your third day in Slovakia, visit the beautiful Orava Castle with a stop in the village of Vlkolínec. From Čičmany, it takes around 2 hours to reach Vlkolínec by car. This UNESCO village is characterized by its 45 traditional log houses that give you the feeling of being inside an open-air museum.

You can learn a lot about the culture, history, and folklore traditions in Slovakia by wandering this little village. There’s also a museum as well as vendor shops selling hand-made souvenirs .

After you’re done exploring Vlkolínec, head over to the stunning Orava Castle, which is just 45 minutes by car from the village, Orava Castle is an incredibly picturesque monument that’s really well-preserved and very engaging to visit. It costs 7 euro to enter its premises, and after a bit of climb up the hill, you’ll reach one of its central courtyards, where there are usually live performances that depict scenes from the Middle Ages.

Be sure to climb up to the Upper Castle, where you can get a spectacular view of the castle grounds from above, as well as the stunning green rolling hills and Orava River that surrounds it.

Once you’re done exploring Orava Castle, it’s time to drive east to one of the national treasures of Slovakia: the Tatras mountains. It takes about 1.5 hours to get there by car from Orava. Spend the night at a guesthouse or hotel in the Tatras region. The Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras is an excellent option if you want to treat yourself to a luxurious stay.

Day 4 – 5: The Tatras Mountains

Slovakia Itinerary - Things to do in Slovakia - Tatra Mountains

If you ask most Slovaks what they’re most proud of about their country, their answer would probably be the Tatras Mountains. And when you’re there, it’s not hard at all to see why. These mountain ranges are incredibly breathtaking and offer amazingly picturesque hiking trails that totally deserve at least two whole days of your itinerary .

The Tatras are divided into two parts: the High Tatras and the Low Tatras. Both of them are worth exploring. The High Tatras is famous for its dramatic landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and majestic waterfalls, while the Low Tatras also offers plenty of hiking trails and walks around beautiful lakes .

Some of the best hiking trails in the Tatras are Rysy, Koprovsky, Velka Svistovka, and Belianske Tatras. You can find trails here suitable for all kinds of hikers, from beginners to the very experienced. If you don’t enjoy trekking for long periods, you can also take short walks around the beautiful Tatras lakes , such as Štrbské Pleso and Popradské Pleso.

There are also plenty of spa hotels in the Tatras, so you can treat yourself to a nice massage after a long day of walking. If you’re visiting in the winter , Tatranská Lomnica is the highest ski resort in Slovakia and offers incredible winter wonderland views.

Day 6: Spiš Castle + Bardejov

After you’re done exploring the Tatras, continue driving east to Spiš Castle, which is 1 hour away by car. This castle is very different from both Bojnice and Orava Castle in that it is mostly in ruins — which is precisely what makes it exciting and picturesque.

The ruins of this 12th-century castle sit on top of a hill, and getting there involves a very relaxing uphill stroll. Once you’re inside, your 8 euro ticket will get you a free English audio guide, so you can learn about the history of the castle as you wander around. Be sure to climb up the castle tower to get a nice view of the castle’s surroundings!

Spiš Castle is just about 1.5 hours southwest of Bardejov, one of the most stunning medieval towns in Slovakia. After you’re done visiting the castle, make your way there and spend the rest of your day exploring the colorful squares and streets of this UNESCO town.

The main attraction to see in Bardejov is Market Square, which is surrounded by pastel-colored houses. Be sure to climb up the tower of Basilica of St. Egidius in the middle of the square to get a nice view of the square from above. You can also stop by Šariš Museum inside the square to check out some Carpathian icon galleries.

After a couple of hours in Bardejov, drive south to Košice and spend the night there. The drive should take around one hour.

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Day 7: Košice

The final stop of this week-long itinerary in Slovakia is Košice, the second-largest city in Slovakia and the beating heart of Eastern Slovakia. The great thing about Košice is that the prices there are cheaper than in Bratislava, and it’s also the best place in Slovakia for foodies or anyone interested in Slovak cuisine.

In fact, there are tons of excellent restaurants in town where you can taste the best Slovak dishes, such as bryndzové halušky. There are also plenty of fabulous international and fusion restaurants too. Some of the best places to eat in town are Med Malina and Camelot.

During your day in Košice, don’t miss out on wandering the stunning Old Town, home to an incredible amount of historical buildings, towers, and sculptures. Stop by St. Elisabeth’s Cathedral and climb up its tower to get a nice bird’s-eye view of the whole city. Crafts Lane is another great spot to visit as you can pick up lots of cool hand-made souvenirs there to bring home .

Final Thoughts

Now you have a week-long itinerary for Slovakia, which includes a mix of historical, adventurous, and cultural experiences. One thing is for sure — Slovakia is definitely an incredibly underrated country, and it’s something you’ll probably only fully understand once you explore beyond its capital city.

Hi there, loved your suggestion in Slovakia. We are heading from Australia via the Dolomites in December. Can’t wait but we have a lot to do. Do your suggestions change at all in the winter? We are wanting try things but at the same time enjoy thermal baths and relax as well. We are novice skiers. Thanks again for your info, very helpful.

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solo female and budget travel

The ultimate guide to bratislava.

(This post contains affiliate links, for more information read this privacy p olicy )

Back in 2019 I had spent a semester abroad in Bratislava and after writing several posts about Slovakia’s capital, I thought it was time to create an Ultimate Guide to Bratislava.

While I was living there I had done some sightseeing, discovered some cool restaurants and bars and travelled around for a bit. This guide, therefore, will include all the things you should know before traveling to Bratislava. Let’s get started!

Bratislava has a population of around 424 000 inhabitants and is located in southwestern Slovakia, bordering with Hungary and Austria. The national language is Slovak and the currency is Euro (€).

How to get to Bratislava

Bratislava does have its own airport but a lot of people will actually fly to Vienna International Airport (VIE) instead. From there you can take a direct bus to the city centre of Bratislava for 5€.

It will take you less than an hour and is the most convenient way to get to Bratislava. If you fly into Bratislava Airport (BTS) it will still take you about an hour to get to the city centre on public transport busses.

If you arrive by train you will be arriving at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica . From there you can take a 5-minute bus into the city centre depending on where you are staying.

If you are arriving in Bratislava by long-distance bus you will most likely arrive at the Autobusová stanica , the central bus station. From there it is about a 10-minute bus ride into the old town.

What to do in Bratislava

The city is rather small and you can see most its highlights in just one day in Bratislava . But if you are staying for longer you can still discover something new every day. Here are just a few of many things to do in Bratislava .

Bratislava Castle

Of course one thing that you have to do when you visit Bratislava is to pay a visit to the beautiful Bratislava Castle. In the summer times you can also visit the gardens in front of it. In the castle there is a museum and also from the top you can have stunning views of Bratislava and the UFO Bridge.

Blue Church

The Church of St. Elizabeth is also known as the Blue Church. It is located in the Eastern part of the old town. It is quite unique due to the church being completely blue.

ŠK Slovan Bratislava Football Game

If you are in the city during the football season, maybe you want to attend a football game. The team of Bratislava is called ŠK Slovan Bratislava . Football tickets are relatively cheap and I always find it interesting to see how football fans are different in different cities or countries.

If you love cats then don’t miss out on visiting Mačkafé . First I was a little skeptical but all the cat look like they are well taken care off and everybody was super friendly.

It is on the way up or down the castle if you want to stop over for a coffee for a little bit. Unlike the cat cafés in the Netherlands for example, they do not charge you a fee to get in and drink prices are still really cheap! Would highly recommend going there and all the cats are so precious.

Devin Castle

Technically, Devin Castle is located a little bit outside of Bratislava but only a 20 minute bus ride away. It is pretty impressive and you can get some stunning views of the Danube river from the top.

Where to Eat in Bratislava

Slovak Pub: Here you will find cheap and authentic Slovak food such as Halušhky . This is Slovakia’s national dish: potato dumplings with sheep cheese and usually bacon sprinkled on top. There are so many different rooms in this restaurant that you can easily get lost.

Enjoy Bistro: This is one of my favourite cafés in Bratislava. Located right in the old town they have delicious breakfast options such as avocado toasts and healthy lunch options as well. And of course a big variety of different coffees. You can sit outside in the summer but also inside you will find a lot of space to enjoy your food.

Basilicò : This is a pizza place that has two locations in Bratislava and is pretty famous. From the study abroad people everybody was going there all the time. They have great pizza!

Pollito Cheesecake: Pollito is a cute café that mostly sells cheesecake. And therefore I had to include it because I absolutely love cheese cake. If you do, too, make sure to check out Pollito for a wide selection of different types of cheesecakes.

Fries and Halušhky at the SLovak Pub in Bratislava, Slovakia

Where to go out in Bratislava

Bratislava is a cheap destination for a night out and if you know where to go, there are quite a few bars and clubs in Bratislava . Some can be a little hidden so it’s better to look up beforehand where to go unless you want to stay in the centre of the old town.

Bar On: I can not leave out Bar On in my Ultimate Guide to Bratislava. The place with probably the cheapest drinks in towns. Beer for 1€ and some basic shots for 1€ as well.

This place smells terrible due to everyone smoking inside but that is the case for most places in Bratislava. This bar still is one of the most popular ones and you can find Slovak people as well as most of the exchange students so a good mixture of internationals and locals.

Starter Pub: This place is located opposite of Bar On. You can go there when you are tired of Bar On or if it is too busy which does happen sometimes. This place also has quite cheap drinks.

Goblin’s Bar: This Irish bar can be hard to spot. As It is underground and you will have to take some stairs down to get there. The entrance is in the old town and drinks are still affordable. The location is what makes this place unique though.

Casey: This club has only opened at the beginning of 2020 after Unique club has closed down. (RIP Unique, we miss you!). It is not open every day but mostly where you can go to the student parties during the week. It’s a bit out of town but you can take public transportation there and just an Uber or Bolt back when you get home. Drinks are really cheap as well.

Masquerade: This club is right in the old town and hard to miss. The music is usually pretty good (lots of Latin music <3). It can get quite crowded though so don’t get there too late so you don’t have to queue outside. Drinks are pricey, make sure to drink enough beforehand.

Tanker Boat: Probably the coolest location of all the places in Bratislava. Tanker boat is on a boat on the Danube river. There are only events on specific dates and some of them are only for exchange students etc. but they do have public events at times I believe. Just have a look at their Facebook page before and see if there are events there while you are in Bratislava.

Day Trips from Bratislava

If you are spending some more time in Bratislava then you might want to visit some places nearby. It’s location makes it a great getaway to even visit neighbouring countries as part of a day trip. Here are some of the most popular day trips from Bratislava . There are also some great places to visit as part of a weekend trip from Bratislava.

Day Trip from Bratislava to Vienna

The most popular day trip from Bratislava is Vienna, the impressive capital city of Austria. From Bratislava you can reach Vienna in just an hour by bus. The easiest way to get there is just to get a bus from

Most SNP in the old town to Vienna Central Station. It is 5€ for the bus if you book it in advance and most of them go almost hourly.

In Vienna you can visit the beautiful Schönbrunn castle or discover the beautiful architecture in Vienna. You can definitely spent a lot more time in Vienna than just a day but it is way cheaper to stay in Bratislava so you can save some money for accommodation in Vienna.

Day Trip from Bratislava to Brno

Brno is the second largest city in the Czech Republic. You can easily reach it with a direct train from Bratislava Central Station within one and a half hours. While there might not be too much to do in Brno but it is a beautiful city with lots of beautiful buildings and lovely restaurants.

The Ultimate Guide to Bratislava- A building in Brno in the Czech Republic

Day Trip from Bratislava to Trenčín

Trenčín is around two hours away from Bratislava and there is a direct train that connects the two. Like in Bratislava you can also find a castle in Trenčín which you can visit and from where you can get great views of the city and the surrounding nature.

Spend your day walking through the old town or having a craft beer or two.

Day trip from Bratislava to Trečín, Slovakia

Solo Female Travel in Bratislava

Bratislava is completely safe! I have been there for almost five months and probably walked around by myself at any time during the day at some point. I always felt a lot safer here actually than in some Western European countries.

There are a few hostels to stay at and it also isn’t too expensive. For safety precautions, I don’t really think there are any that you need to follow.

I would definitely recommend solo female travel in Bratislava but mostly if you combine it with a trip to some other neighbouring countries as Bratislava also is not the most interesting city to travel to by yourself.

For the rest of Slovakia I would not really recommend solo travel. Not because it is not safe but because it isn’t really well travelled so I imagine it could get a little boring or lonely at times. It’s all up to you of course!

Onward Travel from Bratislava

From Bratislava you can be in three different countries in less than an hour. Everything is pretty close and it is really easy to travel to neighbouring countries by train or long distance busses.

Bratislava to Austria: You can take a train or bus to Vienna that will just take you about an hour. The Austrian border in general is just a five minute drive away. A bus to Vienna will cost you five euros and there are several bus companies that travel to Vienna a couple of times a day. These are Flixbus, Regiojet and Slovak Lines.

Bratislava to Poland: From the Central bus station you can also take busses to Poland. It will take around 6 and a half hours to get to Krakow. That can cost you as little as 13 euros. It kind of depends of course which connection you will take and how late or early you book your bus connection.

Bratislava to Czech Republic: If you want to get to the Czech Republic, you can either take a bus or a train. There is a train that goes directly to Prague within 4 hours and stops at Brno, Breclav and some other places along the way. There are also busses that leave to the Czech Republic several times a a day as well.

Bratislava to Hungary : The easiest way to get to Hungary is to take a direct train from Hlavna Stanica, the central station, to this neighbouring country. The train leaves every two hours and will take you directly to Budapest in just two and a half hours.

Bratislava to Ukraine: Also the Ukraine is a neighbouring country of Slovakia but its border are on the Eastern side of the country. You can either cross the entire country first and take a train/bus to the boarder town in the Ukraine or all the way up to Lviv or Kiev. That will take you a lot of time though so flying would be the better option in most cases.

Onward travel from Bratislava: Prague in the Czech Republic

And I hope I covered most of the things that you should know before visiting Bratislava in my Bratislava Guide. If you have any more questions, drop them below and I am happy to answer them!

If you liked reading this Ultimate Guide to Bratislava and think it will be useful for someone, I always appreciate any comments or social shares 🙂

Talk to you later x

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*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links which means if you purchase a product or service through these links I will earn a small commission. That money is used for covering hosting costs for the website and to keep the blog running. For more information read this privacy policy . Thank you for your support 🙂

Becky is a business graduate, working full-time in Marketing and trying to travel whenever possible. She has travelled to 40+ countries, most of them solo, and lived in 6 out of those countries.

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Looooved Bratislava! I’m so glad I stumbled across the Slovak Pub, it was so good and it’s great to see it being recommended! 🙂 The blue church is probably my favourite “thing to see”, but I just adored the old town.

Glad to hear that! I loved the Slovak Pub as well, I went there around 3 times but still got lost every single time 😀 And the blue church is pretty great 😀

Wow, Bratislava looks awesome! I’d love to visit one day 🙂

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The 52 Places Traveler

Alone, happily alone, in the tatra mountains, empty hiking trails and winding roads suit the 52 places traveler’s mood in slovakia..

By Sebastian Modak

Our columnist, Sebastian Modak, is visiting each destination on our 52 Places to Go in 2019 list. He spent Easter Sunday in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, before visiting the Tatra Mountains in Slovakia.

As any solo traveler knows, there’s a fine line between loneliness and blissful solitude. On the 52 Places journey so far, I’ve relished making unexpected and sometimes profound connections with other people. I still text regularly with people I met in Puerto Rico , 15 stops and more than three months ago; everywhere I’ve gone so far, when I’ve put myself out there, I’ve received unbridled hospitality in return.

So when I’ve found myself alone, like really alone , I’ve sometimes felt a purposelessness and a resulting sadness. Slovakia, though, had me leaning into solitude, and enjoying a sense of uninhibited joy that you just can’t get from other people.

I was in Slovakia to spend time in the Tatra Mountains, the jagged artery of the Carpathians that forms a natural border with Poland. I was coming at an awkward time, smack in the middle of spring, when ski season was largely over, but some of the 370 miles of hiking trails in Tatra National Park were still closed because of snow and ice.

But all that really meant was that the crowds were thinner, the traffic on my drive across most of the country was sparse and while reveling in all the natural beauty that this small country has to offer, I was often left with my thoughts as my only company.

I recommend it.

The drive to and around the Tatras is half the fun of the trip, where with quick detours you can catch stunning views of green valleys and tiny villages. For a lot of the trip, I used Google Maps’ turn-by-turn directions more as suggestions and often made decisions based on what I could see on the horizon. There was no one around to tell me to do otherwise, after all.

A river valley separates the High Tatras, or Vysoke Tatry , from the Low Tatras, or Nizke Tatry. I based myself in the former — where the majority of the ski resorts are — which meant easy access to the best trailheads. But on your way in and out of the national park, it’s worth driving through the lowlands to take in the full majesty of the High Tatras from afar.

Things to know

On drives, opt for the smaller roads, which though slower, will take you through the foothills of the Tatras and villages that give glimpses of rural life. Try to make sure to hit Routes 18 and 66 at some point — two of the most beautiful roads I’ve ever driven.

You can’t really go wrong with any of the lodges or family-run guesthouses in Vysoke Tatry — they’re all relatively close to each other, and a train connects the villages if you want to leave the car at home. I opted for the Grand Hotel Praha, an Art Deco mansion in Tatranska Lomnica that was plenty comfortable and offered easy access to the best hiking trails and cable car trips.

If you’re traveling to the mountains in the spring, bring layers. Weather can change suddenly and drastically — I found myself changing outfits three times on a four-hour hike. On one day, it snowed for a full eight hours; by the next morning it had all melted and the sun was shining.

The trails that crisscross the High Tatras are all well marked with distances and estimated times, so it’s easy to choose your route based on your fitness level and ambition. Most importantly, I felt comfortable taking them on alone without getting hopelessly lost.

A must-visit detour, just around 30 miles southeast of the national park, is Spis Castle , a 12th-century complex on top of a steep hill. I had many epiphanies on my trip through Slovakia, with all the time alone driving or hiking lending itself to realizations about my own place in the world and the dizzying magnitude of this yearlong trip. But one of the most poignant moments I had came while standing on top of a watchtower at Spis, looking at the snow-capped mountains hazy on the horizon, and zeroing into the sense of gratitude I felt to be there.

Within the national park, I based myself in Tatranska Lomnica, one of a string of villages that runs along the mountain range. From the town, a series of three cable cars takes visitors all the way up to the top of Lomnicky Stit. At 8,643 feet, it’s the second highest peak in the mountain range. Though a sudden shift in weather meant visibility was near zero when I ascended, it was still worth it for the overwhelming sense of smallness I felt, standing on the edge of the mountain and squinting into a white abyss.

I went from Bratislava up into the High Tatras, before descending to Kosice , the country’s second largest city, and then returning to the capital. Kosice was a bit of a rude awakening from the overwhelming peace I felt hiking the Tatras alone: the city was a host of the Ice Hockey World Championship and the streets were filled with enthusiastic (read: very drunk) fans from all over the world. Even amid the noise, I found moments of silence, like when I wandered down narrow alleys in the storybook Old Town.

Still, the moments I know I will remember most will be snippets of long walks through evergreens, jagged mountain passes and around still lakes, mirrors for gray skies and chalets. Over the course of my road trip, I had a number of passing conversations, but it’s hard to form lasting connections with honeymooning couples or weekending families without being intrusive. That’s O.K. though. Surrounded by natural majesty, I finally understood that the “solo” part of “solo travel” can actually be the most rewarding.

Sebastian Modak is the 2019 52 Places Traveler. Before being selected to report on the annual New York Times list, he worked at Condé Nast Traveler as an editor and staff writer. More about Sebastian Modak

Exploring the Outdoors, One Step at a Time

Hiking is a great way to immerse yourself in nature and tune out the chaos of city life. the tips below will help you get ready before you hit the trail..

Hiking offers a host of mental and physical benefits. If you’re new to it, here’s how to get started .

Fourteen years and one Apple App of the Year award in, AllTrails has become something rare: a tool that works for both experts and newbies .

Make sure you have the right gear . Wirecutter has recommendations for anything you might need — from hydration packs to trekking poles . And remember to try on hiking boots at the right time of the day .

These clever apps and devices will help you to find your way, triage an injury and generally stay out of trouble on the trail.

Planning to venture out for a nighttime hike ? Opt for wide, easy-to-navigate paths.

Experts say failing to alert family or friends of your plans is one of the biggest mistakes hikers make. Here are some more safety tips .

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A 48-hour guide to Bratislava, Slovakia

Updated On 8th March, 2024

Whether you are travelling around Central Europe, following the Danube from elegant Vienna to majestic Budapest or you simply fancy a weekend trip in a less mainstream European capital; Bratislava is definitely a great city to visit. In this blog post, I’m going to do my very best to tempt you into planning a trip to Bratislava Slovakia. I am going to share the best time to visit and the best things to do in Bratislava.

It may be one of the smallest capitals of Europe, but it’s a fast-growing city that has changed significantly over the last 10 years, transforming its appearance, but keeping its traditions. Bratislava is one of Europe’s hidden gems and I’m here to tell you why.

Undoubtedly, the city is a melting pot of culture, historical buildings, beer, wine and art. Also, many large companies have their headquarters in Bratislava and so this city has attracted a vibrant international crowd. Consequently, a night out in this city is extremely fun and diverse.

If you’re planning a trip to Bratislava, this is your 48-hour travel guide. Are you ready?

A 48-hour guide to exploring Bratislava

When should you visit Bratislava?

Bratislava is a perfect getaway no matter the time of the year. However, the temperature changes significantly from winter to summer. If you want to see a white-snowed city, visit from December to February where temperatures could go below -5 °C. Although, in the summer months it’s a different story, with temperatures reaching over 30 °C.

Getting to the city of Bratislava:

By plane: Slovakia’s main airport is Airport Bratislava (BTS)
Train: The main city train station is Bratislava Hlavna Stanica
Bus: The main bus station is Autobusova Stanica Nivy

Tip: You can fly into Vienna’s airport and catch a bus with Slovak Lines or Regio Jet to Bratislava. It’s just a 1-hour journey and costs €6-8.

Getting from the airport into Bratislava city centre:

Download the HOPIN app . Since 2012, it’s the easiest and cheapest way to get a taxi. From the airport, train or bus station use HOPIN to get anywhere and you can pay by cash or by card via the app.

Getting around Bratislava:

If you stay in the Old Town you can go everywhere on foot. It’s extremely easy to get around which is why Bratislava is perfect for a 48-hour trip. Don’t worry if you’re not though because there is a well-connected bus route and a modern tramline.

Accommodation in Bratislava:

Undeniably, the best destination to stay is in the Old Town ‘Stare Mesto’. The area is small, which means you can walk everywhere. However, if you decide to stay in another district, ensure you stay on the north side of the Danube, as it is better connected.

You have some options to consider:

Hotel: The most expensive option. For a double room, the price is from €40-100 a night
Airbnb: The average cost for 2 people per night is around €20-30 Euros
Hostel: Stay at Wild Elephant Hostel for €10 a night for a mixed dorm bed. Particularly good for socialising and meeting others and it has great reviews on Hostelworld .

However, there are many fabulous hostels in Bratislava, so check out which one is the right vibe and price for you. Exciting!

Use this link to get £25 off of your first Airbnb booking.

Budgeting for Bratislava

In the last 5 years prices in Bratislava have increased consistently due to the significant developments the country and city went through. However, Bratislava is still a very cheap capital to visit and should be definitely on every budget traveller’s bucket list. The currency is the Euro.

Example prices:

€10 to get a HOPIN taxi from Airport Bratislava to the city
€20-30 a night for 2-3 people in an Airbnb in the city centre
Average €10-15 for a meal in a restaurant with drinks.
Average €2-3 for a pint of beer or a glass of wine.

For a 48 hour trip, you can easily have a €80-120 budget with accommodation, meals, drinks and a return HOPIN airport taxi.

Top tip: Check out how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase here!

Places to eat and drink while in Bratislava:

Places to eat:.

Slovak Pub – Rustic and woody, this pub is the perfect place to try the best Slovak dishes. Try the “Slovenská misa pre osoby” where you get a long, wooden 3-plate dish. This includes 3 traditional Slovak meals: Halusky, Pirohy and Kapustove Strapacky for less than €15. Great portion, great taste, great value. Don’t forget to try the local cola ‘Kofola’ for a real Slovak experience.
Be About and Minerva – If you are a burger lover then you should consider getting one of the best burgers in town from one of these two places. Equally tasty but different experiences, depending on your vibe.
Primo Amore – I don’t know about you, but I can’t stop eating pizza even when I’m travelling. Primo Amore is basically what I always look for: a real Italian owned pizzeria, with affordable prices and just a 5 min walk from the Old Town. Perfect.

Places to drink:

Stupavar – A vibrant microbrewery in one of the lovely narrow side alleys of the Old town. Stupavar is the perfect stop for beer lovers and old school taste. Best IPA and APA in town.
KC Dunaj – A very hipster-ish rooftop bar in the Old Town where you can definitely find the best vibe for a night out. There is great music with local DJs playing almost every night.
Grand Cru Wine Gallery – There’s a reason this little gem is number 1 on Tripadvisor. It is an extraordinary wine gallery that has a large variety of local wines with very friendly staff. Try to go there in the afternoon because it is small and popular. Don’t miss out!

See my bucket list of van life road trips in Europe here.

See my ultimate Christmas Market road trip itinerary through Europe here.

The best things to do in Bratislava

1. explore the old town and statues: .

Wander around the little “Stare Mesto”, the Old Town. You can find old classic architecture with modern, fun, man-size statues. Get your camera out and don’t forget to get a shot with each of them.

2. Go up the UFO Bridge:

If you liked the statues in the Old Town, then you cannot miss the final one, which was moved out of the city into the UFO restaurant. Go to the UFO Bridge and get the elevator to the restaurant. This is a great opportunity to have a fresh drink whilst watching the city from above for only €7.

3. President Palace:

The Grassalkovich Palace needs to be in your Bratislava bucket list. Besides its official purpose, it is one of the most elegant buildings in the city. Located behind are the Presidential Gardens, which are beautiful parks where you can take a stroll or have a rest.

4. Admire the Blue Church:

The church of St Elizabeth is a Catholic Church that makes you feel like you are in a fairy tale, even if just for a moment. Thanks to its unique and picturesque blue colour this little church is definitely one of the treasures of the city.

5. Visit the Castle:

Walk up the hill from the Old Town and explore this marvellous white castle. From here you can enjoy a free view of Bratislava from above and the Danube. Also, it is possible to go inside for €10. Pretty cool, right?

See my 18 hiking tips for beginners here.

6. Climb up to Slavin:

Slavin is a magnificent Obelisk, which is a monument to remember the fallen soldiers from the Second World War. There are many hills in Bratislava and Slavin is one the highest of those hills. Therefore, the walk to get there is not the easiest. However, it is certainly worth it for the monument and views. Remember, there is always the option to get in a HOPIN taxi, which will only set you back a few euros.

7. Venture out to Devin:

If you find yourself with some extra time and you don’t mind heading out of the city then you won’t be disappointed with a trip to the ruins of Devin’s Castle. It is a 30 mins bus ride from the city centre but definitely worth it. Here you can enjoy both the view of the castle and the Danube with its surrounding forest.

8. Walk along the Danube:

You’ve probably heard of the Danube, which is the second-longest river in Europe. It goes through other important European cities, like Vienna and Budapest. Therefore, a superb option for an enjoyable walk in Bratislava is walking down the river. You can leave from the Old Town and end up in Eurovea. Here you can find a shopping centre and numerous river bars to enjoy a beer looking over the Danube. Pure bliss!

See my 22 top tips for travelling in Europe here.

Have you been to Bratislava, Slovakia?

What were your favourite spots? We’d love to know!?

Love Nicola from Average Lives

You can see more of Nic’s adventures on her Instagram here.

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I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE.

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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Bratislava, Slovakia 🇸🇰 As a solo traveler, I think it's a safe city and prices are reasonable whether it's the food, coffee, or the tickets in general. 🩵 I have visited two restaurants and for €10 you can get a very nice quality of meals. Less than €3 can get you a nice quality and quantity of latte or cappuccino.

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I traveled in Slovakia 2 years ago. My absolute favorite place that we came across was Mala Fatra, a ski resort with amazing nature. Then we went to the Low Tatras. I also really liked the Slovak Paradise National Park. The cities where we stopped and which I really liked were Rožňava, Trencin and Čičmany.

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Bratislava Solo Travel Guide: Vienna to Bratislava Day Trip Itinerary

As the capital of Slovakia, or officially the Slovak Republic , Bratislava is located in the southwestern side of the country and has a population of 450,000. Slovakia borders the Czech Republic to the north, Poland and Ukraine to the east and Austria and Hungary to the south. The country is mountainous and has many national parks, mineral springs, waterfalls, caves and castles .

When I was planning my solo trip to Vienna , I knew I wanted to take a Bratislava day trip from Vienna because it is only one hour away. And boy, am I glad I did!

Bratislava is one of the most compact capital cities in Europe . It is a laidback city with lots of character . Plus, the city is easy to navigate , which makes it a wonderful spot for a day trip, a weekend trip or a stopover.

In this post, I’ll show you exactly how to travel from Vienna to Bratislava and what to do on a day trip to Bratislava Slovakia.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read our disclosure for more info.

Solo Bratislava day trip from Vienna: what you need to know

Before you start your trip to Bratislava, take a look at some of my travel tips for spending a day in Bratislava:

The best day to take a day trip to Bratislava is Saturday when the Old Market Hall is open.
Walking is the best way to get around the city , especially when you follow my Bratislava itinerary. Don’t need to get on any public transportation.
I highly recommend arriving before 10 am (or as early as you like) for your day trip to Bratislava so you can see everything in this itinerary comfortably.
Slovakia’s official currency is the Euro (€) . Credit cards can be used almost everywhere, but carrying some cash for smaller shops is always a good idea.
Many locals speak and understand English . Even the menus have English translations and photographs.
Many public places and restaurants in Bratislava have free wifi .
Bratislava is a safe city for solo female travellers. I walked around both day and night alone and didn’t feel unsafe. Some parts of the city may appear sketchy, i.e. run-down buildings, graffitis, etc. But not every part of the city appears that way.

How to travel from Vienna to Bratislava

Taking a day trip from Vienna to Bratislava is super easy. You can take either a train or a scenic boat ride.

I prefer the train option as it has more flexibility to stay in Bratislava longer but I’m including both options here.

Vienna to Bratislava train

The quickest and cheapest way to travel from Vienna to Bratislava is by taking the direct train. You don’t need to book ahead as trains travel from Vienna to Bratislava each hour.

Once you arrive in Bratislava, the walk to the Old Town is about ten minutes .

Just a reminder for when you return to Vienna: the last train from Bratislava to Vienna is at 11:15 pm.

Time: 1 hour 7 minutes (one every hour)
Cost: €14 (each way)

Scenic boat from Vienna to Bratislava

Or the alternative way to travel from Vienna to Bratislava is to take the scenic boat ride from Vienna to Bratislava on the Danube River .

Time: 1 hour 15 mins (3 boats per day)
Cost: €33 (each way)
Schedule for Vienna to Bratislava: 8:30 am
Schedule for Bratislava to Vienna: 6:30 pm
Book your ticket on the Twin City Liner website

The scenic boat will arrive near the SNP bridge on north side of the Danube River

Day Trip to Bratislava from Vienna Attractions Map

I put together a 1-day Bratislava itinerary that includes all the best things to do in Bratislava. All you need to do is follow the interactive map below. Red numbered pins are all the must-see Bratislava attractions and blue pins are other things to do in Bratislava if you are staying longer.

Solo Bratislava Itinerary: How to spend 1 day in Bratislava

1. grasalkovičov palác (grassalkovich palace).

After arriving at Bratislava train station, walk towards the Old Town. Along the way, you will see the Grasalkovičov Palác ( Grassalkovich Palace) at at Hodžovo Square.

The Presidential Palace was once a venue for aristocratic society events and concerts. Today, the Rococo-Baroque building is the residence of the president of Slovakia.

Behind the palace is the Presidential Garden which is popular with locals in Bratislava. And in front, there is a fountain called Fontána Mieru (Planet of Peace Fountain) which is a giant Earth sculpture which symbolizes freedom.

Even though the palace not open to the public, it is still nice to peek through the gate and see the 18th-century building.

Grassalkovich Palace and Planet of Peace Fountain

Address : Hodžovo Námestie 2978/1, 811 06 Bratislava

2. Stará Tržnica (The Old Market Hall)

On Saturdays between 10 and 3, Stará Tržnica (The Old Market Hall) is open and many vendors set up their stalls for the Trh-Piac-Markt .

On the ground floor, you can buy the freshest produce from regional farmers and get pastries and cooked food . On the first floor, you can browse through all the secondhand books in the Bratislava Book Market , the largest book market in Slovakia .

And once a month, there is a Street Food Park just outside of the Old Market Hall where food trucks sell traditional Slovak food and other delicious street food. Check their Facebook page and see when the next event date is held.

Address : Námestie SNP 25, 811 01 Bratislava | Hours : 10am-3pm, Saturdays only

3. Primaciálny Palác (Primate’s Palace)

Primaciálny Palác ( Primate’s Palace) is the pink Neoclassic building right next to the Old Town hall in the Old Town of Bratislava.

For the cost of admission, you can tour the inside the 18th century palace on your own and see portrait paintings of the Habsburg royalty and a collection of 17th century English tapestries . Moreover, you can see the famous Hall of Mirrors , which is also the mayor’s office and is a venue for concerts and city council meetings.

But if you prefer to roam around the premise, see the fountain of St. George in the courtyard . And make sure to take many photos of the palace – it is the most beautiful building in Bratislava.

Address : Primaciálne Námestie 2, 811 01 Bratislava | Hours : 10am-5pm (closed Mondays) | Admission: €3

4. Stará Radnica (Old Town Hall)

Before heading over to the Main Square, check out Stará Radnica (Old Town Hall) . It is the building with the beautiful green tiled roof next to Primate’s Palace.

The Old Town Hall is actually a series of a 14th century buildings connected by an arcade passage built in the courtyard . These are some of the oldest stone buildings in Bratislava that are still standing.

Within the complex, you can also find Bratislava City Museum , the oldest museum in Bratislava.

But for me, the most interesting part is the tower. You can climb up to the top and see an aerial view of the Main Square .

View of Old Town Hall from the Main Square

Address : Hlavné Námestie 501/1, 811 01 Bratislava | Hours : 10am-5pm Tuesday to Friday; 11am-6pm Saturday to Sunday | Admission : €7 Old Town Hall tour; €3 Old Town Hall Tower

5. Michalská Brána (Michael’s Gate)

Continue to walk around the Old Town and look for a tall Gothic tower with a bulbous copper roof . This is Michalská Brána (Michael’s Gate) .

Built in the 14th century, Michael’s Gate was part of the fortification in the medieval city. It is the last surviving gate in Bratislava and a big tourist attraction today.

The 51m tall tower has seven floors and an observation deck at the top where you can see a panoramic view of the Old Town. And if you look closely, you can see a statue of the archangel Michael, slaying a dragon, on top of the tower .

The tower also houses the Museum of Arms .

However, the museum and observation deck are both closed temporarily for renovation. But hopefully you can still see a glimpse of the tower through the scaffolding.

Address : Michalská Ulica 22 806/24, 811 03 Bratislava | Hours : temporarily closed

6. Čumil aka Man at Work

While you are roaming around the Old Town, look for some of the quirkiest statues in Bratislava . The most famous one is Čumil also known as Man at Work .

Čumil is a whimsical bronze statue of a sewer worker resting on top of a manhole and either looking at passerby or looking up women’s skirts. It is one of the most photographed statue. Do you see how his head is a bit shiny? Legend has it that if you touch his head, your wish will come true.

And during your day trip in Bratislava, make sure to search for other fun statues around the city. Paparazzi Statue, Guard’s Booth , Schnöner Náci , and Napoleon’s Army Soldier are near the Man at Work statue and Hans Christian Andersen is located on Hviezdoslavovo námestie, which is close to St Martin’s Cathedral.

Address : Panská 251/1, 811 01 Bratislava | Hours : 24 hours

7 & 8. Most SNP (SNP Bridge) and Starý Most (Old Bridge)

To see another view of Bratislava, walk across the Most SNP (Slovak National Uprising Bridge) towards the UFO Observation Deck . It is an option to go up the observation deck but make sure you have sufficient time to complete the rest of the 1-day itinerary.

Then walk on the promenade on the south side of the Danube. This is where you can see a panoramic view of Bratislava , including the 85m tall spire at St Martin’s Church and Brastilava Castle on top of the hill .

Continue walking parallel to river until you see a docked boat with a hotel and a brewery, Dunajský Pivovar . It might be time for a break and a beer!

And when you are ready, walk back to the other side via the Starý Most (Old Bridge) .

Address : Most SNP 851 01, 851 01 Bratislava | Hours : 24 hours

9. Modrý Kostolík (The Blue Church)

Next, walk through a quiet neighbourhood in the eastern part of the Old Town and find Modrý Kostolík (The Blue Church) .

Built between 1908-1913, the Blue Church was designed and built by Hungarian architect, Edmund Lechner . The Hungarian-Secessionist church has a simple oval plan and a 36.8m cylindrical tower.

But what is so special about this church is the colour and the design . The entire church has a pale blue facade and is covered with Art Nouveau design details . The blue hue can also be seen in other decorative elements like mosaics and majolicas. And it even has blue-glazed ceramic tiles on the roof.

The interior is also decorated in a shade of pale blue and white (but I didn’t really see it because there was a wedding the day I visited the Blue Church. It was so magical!)

Address : Alžbety, Bezručova 2, 811 09 Bratislava | Hours : 6:30-7:30am and 5:30- 7pm Monday to Saturday; 7:30am-12pm and 5:30-7pm on Sunday

10. Dóm sv. Martina (St. Martin’s Cathedral)

Meander through the Old Town and walk towards the castle. But first, you must see Bratislava’s largest and oldest church, Dóm sv. Martina (St. Martin’s Cathedral) .

The large cathedral was built as a part of the city walls and functioned as a defensive bastion . The church is very well-known because it was the coronation place for Hungarian kings and queens between 1563 and 1830. 19 members of the Habsburg dynasty were crowned here.

Take note of the design details of the Gothic cathedral; all the original stained glass windows, pointed arches and rib vaults are quite magnificent. And don’t miss the underground crypt and catacombs .

Address : Rudnayovo námestie 1, 811 01 Bratislava | Hours : 9-11:30am & 1-6pm Monday to Friday; 9-11:30am Saturday; 1:45-4:30pm Sunday

11. Mestské Hradby (Medieval City Walls)

Behind St Martin’s Cathedral is a series pathways that are part of Mestské Hradby (Medieval City Walls) . Bratislava was heavily fortified at the end of the 14th century but only a few section of the medieval wall remains today .

But you can still walk through the passage from St Martin’s Cathedral towards where Kapitulská and Na vŕšku intersect . There is a series of smaller pathways in and around some houses.

When you are ready, walk across the pedestrian bridge over the highway and walk towards the castle.

Address : Staromestská, 811 01 Bratislava | Hours : 10am-8pm

12. Bratislavský Hrad (Bratislava Castle)

As you follow the pathways and stairways up the hill, you will soon approach Bratislavský Hrad (Bratislava Castle) .

The castle on the hill was built in the 9th century and was once part of the important path on the ancient routes. Today, the castle is the best attraction in Bratislava.

For an admission fee, you can see the inside of the palace and the archaeological finds at The Treasury . Moreover, you can see the permanent displays for the Slovak National Museum – Museum of History plus you can even climb up the Crown Tower .

But you don’t have to pay for anything to enjoy some of the highlights around Bratislava Castle. The Jardin Baroková Záhrada is a manicured garden and whimsical statues. And the Sigismund Gate , the eastern entrance gate, is an excellent spot to see a panoramic view of the Danube River.

The best time to visit Bratislava Castle is at the end of the day where you can potentially catch a gorgeous sunset . Since you are high above on the hill, you might be able see the sun set behind the horizon.

Address : Hrad, 811 06 Bratislava | Hours : 10am-6pm

13. Return to Vienna via train or boat

After a long day of sightseeing, your Bratislava day trip has finally come to an end.

Depending on your preference, there is enough time to have dinner in Bratislava before returning to Vienna via the train. When you are ready, backtrack to the Bratislava train station and catch the next train back to Vienna.

And if you chose the scenic boat option, make sure you are back at the dock well before 6:30 pm.

If you have more than 1 day in Bratislava Slovakia

You can comfortably see all the attractions in my Bratislava itinerary in one day.

But if you are staying overnight or over a weekend in Bratislava, here are a few more things to do in Bratislava. And if you time your visit to Bratislava, you might even get to see some of the seasonal attractions.

Bratislava Christmas Market (last week of November to last week of December) – see all the festive Christmas stalls and drink mulled wine at the Main Square, Hviezdoslav Square and Františkánske Square.
Dobrý Trh (The Good Market) – an occasional market with local designers, food vendors, antique stalls. They have the market in different locations, so check Dobrý Trh website before you visit.
Slovak National Collection of Wines – try 72 Slovak wines with a sommelier during the 100-minute wine-tasting program.
Nedbalka Gallery – the permanent exhibit displays modern art in Slovakia in a delightful small building with a circular atrium.
Bratislava City Museum – exhibits focuses on the history of Bratislava.
Kunsthalle Bratislava – art gallery displaying work by local and international visual artists.
UFO Observation Deck – see an aerial view of Bratislava from the open-air observation deck on the a flying saucer-shaped tower.

Where to stay in Bratislava as a solo traveller

If you follow my 1-day Bratislava itinerary, you only need a full day to see all the attractions.

But if you want to stay overnight (and I highly recommend you do), there are a handful of affordable hotels to choose from. I really like these two:

Check prices & reviews: Agoda
Check prices & reviews: Agoda

What to eat in Bratislava

Slovak cuisine has a lot of meat dishes, various types of cheese (especially sheep cheese) and beer , of course! And eating in Bratislava is relatively inexpensive.

Try some of these traditional Slovak specialties when travelling solo to Bratislava:

Traditional Slovak Dishes

Kapustnica – sauerkraut soup
Krémová Cesnaková Polievka – creamy garlic soup in bread bowl
Zemiakové Placky – fried potato pancakes
Pečená Klobása – roasted smoked sausage
Bryndzové Halušky – Slovakia’s national dish: sheep’s cheese potato dumplings with roasted bacon
Bryndzové Pirohy – traditional potato pierogis stuffed with sheep’s cheese
Vepřo Knedlo Zelo – pork roast, dumplings and sauerkraut
Šišky – homemade donuts with marmalade and sugar
Slivkové Knedle – dumpling dessert filled with plums and dusted with sugar on top

What to drink in Bratislava

Zlatý Bažant – local Slovak beer
Borovička – Slovak spritz flavoured with juniper berries
Slovakian wine – Tokajske Vino (Tokaj wine), Ríbezlák (Currant Wine) and Včelovina (Honey Wine)

Roasted homemade sausage and cheese platter at Bratislava Flagship Restaurant

Where to eat in Bratislava

Since you are only spending one day in Bratislava, check out either Bratislava Flagship Restaurant or Slovak Pub . They both have traditional Slovak cuisine and you can try everything mentioned above.

And if you are up for an afternoon beverage, visit one of the several breweries in Bratislava.

I listed all the best places to eat in Bratislava below and included the location on the map for easy reference.

Bratislava Flagship Restaurant – try the homemade sausage, cheese platter with herbal salt and wash it down with Kláštorný ležiak (beer)
Slovak Pub – the Slovak Platter has two types of dumplings and one pierogi with cheese
Bratislavský Meštiansky Pivovar (Bratislava Bourgeois Brewery) – try the soup or dumplings at Bratislava’s oldest brewery
Žil Verne – an awesome pub with many sour beers and IPA on tap
Dunajský Pivovar – brewery on the Danube River
Fabrika – great brewery serving home-brewed beers
Luculus Ice Saloon – Bratislava’s oldest ice cream shop
Cukráreň Konditorei Kormuth – quirky cake shop

Are you going to take a solo day trip from Vienna to Bratislava?

Bratislava is a quaint little town and it is possible to see all the best attractions in one day.

And if you decide to stay overnight or spend more time in Bratislava, there are plenty of day trips from Bratislava where you can explore other parts of Slovakia.

I’m really enjoyed my Bratislava day trip from Vienna! It is definitely worth visiting if you haven’t yet. And I mentioned it already: Bratislava is safe for solo travel. Even if you are walking around at night.

Did I miss any must-sees in this Bratislava solo travel itinerary? Let me know if like this Bratislava itinerary or if you think I’m missing anything from the list.

Thank you for reading my Bratislava solo travel guide

Vienna travel posts:

Vienna solo travel guide for first time travellers
23 Best Vienna food you must try
Visit a Heuriger in Grinzing from Vienna: 1-day itinerary

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queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

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Awesome piece! Thanks 🙂 Safe Travels! Greetings from a fellow solo female traveller x

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A Guide to Exploring the High Tatras of Slovakia.

I’ve been lucky enough to hike through some incredible landscapes in Europe. But the High Tatras of Slovakia felt different.

On a cool spring day, under the warm blue sky, I set out hiking along jagged peaks, through forests of tall spruce and Scots pine trees. Along gushing rivers I walked, past waterfalls so intense that I couldn’t hear my own jumbled thoughts.

A wild fox ran past me on the trail, stopped just a few feet away and turned to face me before darting off. My heart skipped a few beats as I thought: damn, I’m hiking alone in the High Tatras of Slovakia!

I’ve been lucky enough to hike through some incredible landscapes in Europe. The alpine Berchtesgaden National Park of Germany, the Tyrol region of Austria and the stunning Julian Alps of Slovenia.

But the High Tatras of Slovakia felt different.

Think rugged beauty, solitude on the trails with only wild creatures to keep me company, locals who speak not a word of English, the lingering traces of a communist past, the surreal feeling of being somewhere far off the beaten path.

Also read: First Time to Europe? 10 Travel Tips to Get You Started

Why visit the High Tatras of Slovakia?

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Dramatic mountain landscapes, wildflower-filled meadows, fields of blooming yellow rapeseed flowers, jagged peaks often clad in mist, pristine rivers and waterfalls, wooded hiking trails – need I say more? I fell in love with the High Tatras – designated the “Tatra National Park” – not just for their surreal beauty, but also because they’re perfect to hike solo and independently.

Truth be told, writing this post makes me feel pretty conflicted. On the one hand, I worry that its pristine beauty might no longer remain if word got around. But on the other, I think the only way to combat overtourism is to spread out, travel in search of our own paradise (for believe me, it exists) and in the quest, realise what we’ve got to lose if we don’t travel responsibly.

Also read: How Croatia Compelled Me to Rethink Travel Blogging

Tatra Mountains hiking: Best short hiking trails in Slovakia

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Although hiking trails in the Tatra Mountains are well-marked, I recommend getting a hiking map in Poprad, the main town, and figuring out which hikes you plan to do. The folks at the tourist information office in the central area of Poprad speak great English and are very helpful!

While Stary Smokovec is probably the most popular tourist settlement in the High Tatras, the real beauty of the mountains begins after Hriebienok – accessible through a one-hour uphill hike on a paved road or by the Tatry Motion Train, which costs 11 Euros for a return journey, runs every half hour, has a glass roof and climbs up the steep track in a few minutes.

The one-hour hiking trail from Hriebienok to Zamkovskeho Chata follows a wooded trail with stunning views, wooden bridges, a crystal clear river and a couple of gushing waterfalls. A wild fox crossed me on this hiking path, and I loved taking a little detour to chill at by the river. Chata is the Slovakian word for hut, and at Zamkovskeho Chata, I was delighted to find warm vegan lentil soup on a chilly afternoon. Two hours further, the trail leads up to the beautiful Teryho Chata with more rugged Tatra scenery on the way.

My Airbnb host recommended the longer and steeper trail from Hriebienok to Slavkovska Vhyliadka, which takes about 3 hours, and leads to what he believes is one of the most beautiful parts of the valley.

While the walk around the glacial lake Strbske Pleso feels more urban than alpine, there are some spectacular hiking trails up to other glacial lakes like the biggest in the Slovakian High Tatras – Pleso Hincovo. This one takes about 3 hours one way and climbs up along beautiful forests and rugged mountain terrain; stop for snacks / drinks at the mountain hut Pri Popradskom Plese.

The gorgeous Slovak Paradise National Park – with alpine forests, waterfalls and rivers – is just half an hour from Poprad Tatry, though poorly connected by public transport. According to the tourist information office in the city centre, only one bus plies there at 10:30 am and back at 4:23 pm, which is how I got there. Taxis cost 12-15€ one way.

Sucha Bela is the most popular hike, but on a rainy day, I didn’t think doing it on my own was a good idea, considering it has a vertical gorge to be climbed with ladders, sheer drops into rivers / waterfalls and a one-way path so there’s no turning back. I would have loved some company to attempt this adventurous trail. Instead I picked the less adventurous blue trail through a quiet old forest.

Also read: Unusual Solo Travel Destinations to Feed Your Adventurous Spirit

Where to stay in the High Tatras of Slovakia

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Given how little is written online about good accommodation in the High Tatras in Slovakia, I had a tough time deciding whether I should stay in Poprad, pick a mountain accommodation in the Tatras, splurge on a High Tatras hotel or find a Tatra mountain hut when I got there. I finally ended up staying at a family-run cabin on the outskirts of Poprad, in a small village with rapeseed fields and a stunning panorama of the High Tatras.

Poprad is a mountain city with a small green centre and stellar views of the High Tatras, but also has modern malls, fashion stores, two vegan-friendly cafes and even a co-working space! Poprad train station offers easy access to the mountain trails, with electric trains departing every hour from morning to night.

Where to stay in Poprad Tatry:

Pension Barborka : This was my first pick in Poprad, but sadly sold out for my last-minute trip. Set in a historical building, this charming pension (the European equivalent of a guesthouse) is built primarily with wood and stone, and offers a traditional Slovakian experience; 30€ per night.
“Lost in view” Airbnb : I ended up staying in this independent rustic cabin, hosted by a friendly Slovakian family, in a little village in the suburbs of Poprad. I had access to a kitchenette, fireplace, radio, old bicycle and stunning mountain vistas. But the bus connectivity was quite awful, Google Maps didn’t work well and the whole experience was quite DIY. I’d recommend it for seasoned travellers who’re happy to be on their own; 50€ per night.
Hotel AquaCity Seasons : The only eco-luxury accommodation I came across in the High Tatras, part of the city’s famous AquaCity complex, powered entirely by geothermal water and solar energy. I met locals who said they travel all the way to Poprad from around Slovenia just to pamper themselves with a stay here, which also allows access to the geothermal pools and other wellness zones; 108€ per night.
Apartment centrum n8 : A gorgeous self-catering accommodation; quite a steal at 55€ for the entire apartment.
Hotel 63 : A cool, small, hip boutique hotel just off the city centre of Poprad; 40€ per night.

Nova Lesna is a small village, just 2 stops from Poprad Tatry on the way to Stary Smokovec – where many of the popular hikes in the High Tatras begin. Unlike Stary Smokovec and other mountain settlements which were specifically set up for tourists, Nova Lesna is a real village with a local population, a village centre, an old church, meadows with wildflowers in spring and majestic views on the High Tatras mountains.

I only spent my last afternoon exploring Nova Lesna, and left feeling like this is the village I’d stay in if I ever came back. It feels well off the beaten path, and although there are few options to stay and eat, it is only a short ride to Poprad and further up into the mountains.

Where to stay in Nova Lesna:

Penzion Tri Klasy : I walked past this charming wood and stone family-run guesthouse and was quite smitten; 56€ per night.
Villa Tatranit : A self-catering accommodation with friendly hosts, a well-equipped kitchnette and bicycles for hire; 100€ per night.
Vila Zvonika : An ultra modern, luxurious, design villa if you’re in the mood to splurge on a mountain hideout; 130€ per night.

The furthest stop (and one of the most popular) on the Tatra Electric Railway line is Strbske Pleso – a glacial lake surrounded by a paved, wooded walking path, with a view of the mountains beyond. This is a good starting point for hikes to further glacial lakes.

Where to stay in Strbske Pleso:

Apartment House Oliver : A beautifully designed and well-equipped self-catering apartment, rented as part of a small family-run setup; 99€ per night.
Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras : A hot favorite among locals and visitors, Kempinski at Strbske Pleso is among the most luxurious Tatra Mountains accommodations, set in traditional buildings with stunning views over the glacial lake and High Tatras; 235€ per night.

Not on booking.com yet? Use my sign up link and get 10€ off your first stay.

Bluebell : A cosy, budget homestay located in the stunning village of Mengusovce, with panoramic views of the High Tatras; 27€ per night.
Mountain Hotel Bilikova Chata : If you want to be away from it all yet have creature comfort on a budget in the Slovakian mountains, this High Tatras hotel maybe for you. It’s located near Hriebienok, the starting point for some amazing hikes near Stary Smokovec – accessible only by hiking or the Tatry Motion train; 30€ per night.
Villa Pod Gerlachom : This unique Tatra hut accommodation is a standalone wooden chalet, surrounded by the mountains and forests. Ideal if you’re travelling in a bigger group; 141€ per night.

Not on Airbnb yet? Use my sign up link and get 25€ off your first stay.

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The High Tatra mountains extend from Slovakia to Poland. From what I’ve heard, the Slovakian side is less developed and relative less visited- and that’s where I spent all my time.

While it’s possible to rent a car and drive, I prefer public transport for its convenience, value for money and eco-friendliness. The small mountain city of Poprad Tatry (casually called Poprad) is the gateway from Bratislava to the Tatra mountains – and it takes about 4 hours to get there by train.

I was quite surprised to notice that the train prices from Bratislava to Poprad in the High Tatras varied significantly on different websites; I found the best price on Slovakrail (14-17€ one way). The bus is slightly cheaper, but takes 9-11 hours for the same distance! The train journey from Bratislava to the High Tatras (Poprad) is quite spectacular, crossing rivers, mountains and meadows along the length of Slovakia.

Vegan food in the High Tatras, Slovakia

One of the reasons I decided to stay on the outskirts of Poprad was to have access to atleast some vegan food amid the meat-obsessed Slovaks. In retrospect, this isn’t necessary for two reasons: One, the train connectivity from the mountain settlements in the High Tatras to Poprad is much more frequent than buses to the city’s suburbs. And two, the food in Poprad isn’t too great so I ended up whipping basic quick meals with produce from the supermarket at home anyway.

Lahodnesti : A cool space with plenty of vegan options like smoothies, burgers, paninis, couscous etc. The smoothies were yum, but the rest a bit bland; my favorite was the Lahodnesti burger.
VEG : Despite the unappetizing name, the space is quite cosy, with a bunch of vegan options like wraps, curry, kombucha, etc. I tried the quinoa tofu wrap which was decent, though could do with more flavor.
Zamkovskeho Chata : A 2 hours hike / Tatra Motion train + 1 hour hike from Stary Smokovec, this mountain hut offers one vegan option on their limited menu – a lentil soup with potato cubes, perfect after a hike on a chilly day.
Soul : Located in Stary Smokovec close to the train station, I saw this restaurant advertising vegetarian meals, though I didn’t have the chance to check out whether they were vegan or what they entailed.

Also read: How to Travel as a Vegan and Find Delicious Food Anywhere in the World

Other travel tips for the High Tatras, Slovakia

The shorter hikes in the High Tatras are accessible all year round. The longer trails further up into the mountains open only after the snow melts, typically from July to October. I was there in end May 2019, which felt like spring in Slovakia, with wildflowers in bloom. The weather forecast wasn’t accurate, so I had to stay prepared for both rain and strong sun on all days.

I spent five days exploring the Tatra mountains and could have easily stayed longer. I would recommend a minimum of three days.

Don’t buy plastic bottles. Carry a refillable bottle, drink tap water (safe to drink across Slovakia) and fill real glacial water from streams along the way.
Use public transport. The electric trains run frequently, are very affordable and make for a unique experience on their own.
Avoid popular hiking trails on weekends if you can. They are far more enjoyable with fewer people.
Stick to the hiking trails. Don’t go crazy trying to get the perfect selfie!
Fight the FOMO (fear of missing out) and slow down; take the time to really experience this incredible part of the world.

Further reading: Our Escape Clause: 5 reasons to go hiking in the High Tatras of Slovakia Adventurous Miriam: The place you’re overlooking but shouldn’t Earth Trekkers: Hiking guide to the High Tatras of Slovakia

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Welcome to my blog, The Shooting Star. I’ve been called a storyteller, writer, photographer, digital nomad, “sustainability influencer,” social entrepreneur, solo traveller, vegan, sustainable tourism consultant and environmentalist. But in my heart, I’m just a girl who believes that travel – if done right – has the power to change us and the world we live in.

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20 comments.

Hii dear Eco-Globetrotter,

Your blogs always bring a curve to my lips – and I cannot thank you enough. You travel responsibly, write convincingly, think creatively. In Bengali literature, there lived once a famous author, Abanindranath Tagore its believed that his words used to usher readers into a visual journey “kotha diye chhobi aaken” – means he used to, as if, paint pictures with his words. You, Ms. Shivya, are not less, I daresay, warm hug, dear, for awakening sparks of imagination into my heat-oppressed brain (Kolkata is simmering now, no trace of rain-Gods). Wow! Tatras at Slovakia… and the wild fox, ahhh quite an adventure.I just wish to leave the world behind and throw caution to the winds – set off for an unknown destination as Im very inspired by your vivid and lucid narratives.

Congratulations girl. And waiting to devour your next. blog. Let me share this one on my Facebook profile. Btw, Im following you on Twitter as well!

Take care and travel safe. God bless you. Love from Kolkata!

Thanks Arpita for your heartwarming comment 🙂 Too kind of you to make such a comparison, but I’m glad to hear that you might be setting of on a wild adventure soon. All the best, the world awaits 🙂

When I came back from Slovakia I was so enthusiastic about Slovakia like you!!I really enjoyed reading your post with lovely pictures and full of useful information!! Very best regards Martina

I can imagine Martina; Slovakia sure has that kind of effect!

Thank you very much for a such an amazing article about our country ❤ Slovakia is such a picturesque country with no crowds around. Cannot wait to travel back home this weekend! We have already planned some hiking in High Tatras 🤩

Lucky you to call it home! Hope you had fun hiking in the High Tatras, I can only imagine how the landscapes must change with the seasons. Hope to be back someday.

Yes, we are and you are right: the landscape of the High Tatras is beautiful especially in the autumn 🍁. It is our favourite season for hiking with not so many strorms around.

Very nice article with beautiful & ultimate click 👌👌👌

Thanks Bhaskar, glad you enjoyed it.

Wonderful Article while reading virtually travelled in Slovakia high Tatras. Thanks for inspiring me.👌👌

Thanks Sanjeev, hope you enjoyed the virtual journey!

Nice post keep share with us… 🙂

Wow, I did not know when the article carried me to High Tatras of Slovakia. The new style of writing is also very good. Thank you for sharing.

Thanks Bikram, glad you found yourself transported!

Great article. Planning on visiting the high tatra from the Slovakian side in a few weeks. Can only find a lot about having a car and driving around. Glad to read you did it by public transport. Was it okay to get around everywhere? Are there busses between the small vilages? How did you do that, if I can ask? 🙂

The villages in the High Tatras are very accessible with frequent trains. But closer to Poprad, I was mostly on a bicycle / walking as the buses are quite infrequent.

Complete journey of Slovakia and beautiful pics.

Hope you enjoyed the journey!

Lately, I read your posts. It’s simply awesome !! Let us know about your current adventures

Hi! Thank you for your post! 🙂 Weren’t you afraid of hiking in bear territory alone? Did you bring bear spray or something else to protect you?

Best Regards Katrin

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The best solo travel destinations, according to a long-time solo traveller

Travelling alone can be one of life's most rewarding experiences, says Tracey Davies, editor of 101 Singles Holidays

Solo travel is having a real renaissance right now. According to American Express’ latest Global Travel Trends report , 69 per cent of travellers are planning to go it alone this year, with women in the post-45 age bracket leading the charge. There are many reasons women choose to travel on their own: separation from a partner, a sabbatical from work, seeking empowerment and freedom, or simply wanting to do things their own way for a change.

So, if you’re looking for a yoga retreat in Spain , want to explore the Golden Triangle in India , or even snuffle for truffles in the forests of Slovenia , there are a million and one solo holiday ideas to garner inspiration from. Here are some of my favourites…

best solo travel destinations, scottish highlands

History in Edinburgh , thronging nightlife in Glasgow, heather-strewn glens in the Highlands – Scotland is a brilliant place to explore, period. Solo adventures to be had in Scotland could include a walking holiday in Glencoe, monster-spotting in Loch Ness or island hopping around the Hebrides .

See the best of the Highlands on a four-day Good Housekeeping tour this July, which includes a ride on the world-famous Jacobite steam train from Fort William to Mallaig. The train passes the stunning slopes of Ben Nevis, numerous dazzling lochs and the 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct (pictured), made famous by the Harry Potter film franchise.

Other highlights of this tour include a ride on the Falkirk Wheel boat lift and a cruise along the Firth of Clyde on the PS Waverley, the world's last ocean paddle steamer.

Spain hits the top spot as one of the easiest places to travel solo. It has Mediterranean beach resorts, buzzing cities abundant with cool bars and restaurants (like Granada, pictured), and small towns and picturesque villages that are perfect for pottering.

Add in a straightforward and reliable transport network, a plethora of solo accommodation options and friendly residents, it's easy to see why Spain is a great choice for a solo sojourn.

The Healthy Holiday Company offers numerous wellness trips throughout Spain. One of the best for solo travellers is Shanti Som, a small, boutique retreat in Andalusia. With just 15 rooms it offers an intimate experience plus has a yoga pavilion and gorgeous little spa that offers different treatments and therapies. FIND OUT MORE

Italy is incredibly welcoming to the solo traveller. Have you read the book or seen the movie Eat, Pray, Love ? Our hero Elizabeth Gilbert fell in love with the country’s great food, romantic language and utterly charming locals. Italy's also an easy country to get around in, thanks to its excellent transport network.

One of my favourite cities in Italy is Bologna (pictured). Known as La Grassa ('the fat one'), the northern city is a mecca for gastronomes . As well as feasting on hearty pasta dishes and locally-made wine, Good Housekeeping's six-day foodies tour (which begins and ends in Bologna) visits producers of Parma ham, balsamic vinegar and Parmesan, and includes an Italian cooking class in the neighbouring city of Modena.

FIND OUT MORE

Considered one of the safest countries in the world, Norway is the perfect destination for solo travellers, especially those looking to embrace friluftsliv , the Norwegian concept of enjoying the great outdoors.

Like other Nordic countries, Norway is incredibly well organised, efficient and easy to traverse. It also has a fantastic, solo-friendly dining scene with a focus on home-grown, seasonal produce.

Norway is one of the best places on earth to witness the Northern Lights , so join Good Housekeeping on this fantastic 12-day Norway cruise with no single supplement.

Departing November 2024 , you'll sail on a Hurtigruten ship, stopping off at the UNESCO-listed port of Bergen, the Lofoten Islands and Tromsø. As you cross the Arctic Circle, the chances of spotting the aurora borealis are almost guaranteed.

Famously welcoming, Slovenia is the perfect destination when travelling alone.

Bordering Hungary, Italy, Austria and Croatia , this small but mighty country is relatively straightforward to explore, thanks to its efficient transport system. The fact that there's also plenty to see and do – and that most people speak English – means it should be on any solo adventurer’s must-visit list.

This six-day guided Slovenia adventure , departing in October 2024, is a great introduction to Central and Southeastern Europe. The trip begins and ends in Ljubljana, Slovenia's cobblestoned capital, and includes tours of Triglav National Park, Lake Bled (pictured) and the UNESCO-listed Skocjan caves.

You’ll also enjoy wine tasting in the Vipava Valley and an afternoon learning about the art of truffle hunting.

For the original Shirley Valentine experience, look no further than Greece and its beautiful islands. Greece is ideal for solo travellers, whether you want to hoover up the ancient history in Athens or hop around the islands, relaxing on beaches and dining Shirley-style in traditional tavernas.

With an abundance of sprawling beach resorts, white-washed fishing harbours and rugged mountain villages to pick from on the islands, the hardest part is choosing which one to visit.

If you're looking to explore your creative side, check out learning holidays company Skyros . Staying in a rustic eco-lodge, this week-long holiday on Skyros (pictured), in the southern Sporades, includes creative writing sessions, stand-up comedy workshops and relaxing yoga classes.

As our closest continental neighbours, France is a good place to start when venturing abroad solo. It's easy to get around, dining alone is welcomed and the French are very accustomed to tourists.

Follow in the footsteps of Claude Monet on this four-day Good Housekeeping holiday taking in Paris and Giverny. Great for single travellers with a passion for art, the base for the trip (departing in July 2024) is the four-star Château de Montvillargenne in the heart of the Chantilly forest.

Excursions include a visit to Château de Chantilly and the market town of Senlis plus a guided tour of Monet's gardens in Giverny (pictured) led by gardening expert and writer Paula McWaters.

Considered to be one of the most captivating landscapes on the planet, Iceland is a must for any adventurer, including those going it alone.

With incredibly welcoming locals, Iceland is known as the Land of Fire and Ice, and offers visitors the chance to bathe in hot springs, climb sheer glaciers or come face-to-face with feisty volcanoes. To see this vast landscape in style, it's well worth joining a group tour (ideal for solo travellers) or hiring a car.

Soak in the famous Blue Lagoon (pictured), see the Skógafoss waterfall and hike up the Sólheimajökull glacier on an exhilarating five-day tour of Iceland. Hosted by Regent Holidays , this is a great option for solo travellers aiming to tick off a range of Iceland activities.

India was one of the first countries I ever travelled around alone (talk about throwing myself in at the deep end!) and while it was challenging in parts, it was also rewarding and transformative.

Whether you're looking to hike the Himalayas, 'find yourself' through yoga and meditation on a retreat or marvel at the Taj Mahal, India's unique culture and vibrancy is bucket list-worthy.

One of the easiest ways to explore India on your own is on an escorted tour. Solos Holidays itineraries are made specifically for the single traveller, and their Splendour's of Rajasthan tour explores the Golden Triangle of Jodhpur, Jaipur and Agra. Highlights include seeing the Taj Mahal at sunrise (pictured) and visiting the Amber Fort in the Aravalli Hills.

Gorgeous white beaches, rugged national parks and perhaps the prettiest medieval walled city in the world (hello, Dubrovnik ), Croatia is one of my favourite places in Europe to explore by myself.

Croatia is an easy country to get around, whether you want to go island hopping by ferry, catch a coach along the Adriatic Coast or hire a car to explore the country’s rugged interior.

If you want to see Croatia with a some like-minded folk, consider booking an escorted tour with Just You , a solo holidays specialist. Their Croatia and the Markarska Riviera trip focuses on the Dalmatian Coast and is bookended by stays in Zadar and Dubrovnik. It also includes a brilliant boat trip to Hvar and Brac (pictured), and a visit to Krka National Park.

More travel ideas:

- The best cruises for 2024

- Venice's hidden gems

- The 2025 holidays worth booking in advance

- The best mother-daughter holiday ideas

- Amazing holidays with celebrity guests

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Solo Travel

10 Affordable Solo Vacations Around the World

These are the top destinations for solo travelers on a budget.

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Solo travel affords one the unique opportunity to explore at their own pace while stepping out of their comfort zone, making it one of the most rewarding and thrilling experiences. With that in mind, it’s no wonder why solo travel has become increasingly popular. But don’t just take it from us. “Kayak’s data is showing that solo travel in the U.S. continues to be a trend with a steady increase in hotel searches for one person vs. last year and vs. pre-pandemic levels (2019),” said Cara Johnson, Kayak’s consumer travel trends expert.

To determine the best affordable destinations for solo travelers, we tapped the pros over at Kayak to compile a list. From there, we narrowed down our top picks based on expert insight and research. As you peruse the list below, you’ll come across a few Caribbean destinations, as well as several cities throughout North, South, and Central America. Europe isn’t entirely out of reach either, though you’ll have to keep scrolling to see which city made the cut.

No matter where you plan on traveling solo to, Fora co-founder, T+L A-List advisor, and frequent solo traveler Henley Vazquez recommends planning “a few activities in advance so you don't feel overwhelmed with an abundance of unscheduled free time.” On the flip side, she says, "Don’t over-plan! You want to leave room for spontaneity.” She also advises saving a few locations on your phone ahead of time. That way, she says, “If you ever lose Wi-Fi or service, you know how to navigate.”

Denver, Colorado

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Average cost: $523 for flight + hotel

From scenic hiking opportunities to craft brews galore, it’s safe to say the Mile High City offers something fun for everyone. Additionally, according to Vazquez, “Denver has a great airport which makes it easy to access from almost anywhere else in the country.” Solo travelers can take their pick of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking. “While normally it's not recommended to hike off into a national park solo, Denver has loads of fantastic trails and an active hiking population, so you'll never be alone on the trail (in a good way),” she tells T+L. Art enthusiasts, meanwhile, need not miss Meow Wolf , a walk-through interactive art exhibit, which, per Vazquez, offers “a totally immersive, mind-bending experience.” Pro tip: Stretch your dollar even further by purchasing the Denver CityPass , which saves you up to 43 percent on admission to top attractions like the Downtown Aquarium and Denver Museum of Nature & Science , among others.

Calgary, Canada

Average cost: $655 for flight + hotel

Known as the gateway to the Canadian Rockies, Calgary is Alberta’s largest city — and it truly offers something for everyone. Experience a taste of Calgary’s signature cowboy culture by planning your trip around the Calgary Stampede , a world-class rodeo show, music and arts festival, and carnival that takes place each summer. However, that’s not to say the urban oasis isn’t worth visiting at other times of year. The bustling downtown area is home to plenty of restaurants and coffee shops, such as Monogram Coffee Co. and Rosso Coffee Roasters , arts and entertainment (such as The Palace Theater for live music and theatrical performances at One Yellow Rabbit ), and local shops, including the Alberta Boot Company , where travelers can snag a pair of handcrafted Western boots. Lastly, it’s worth noting that Calgary boasts North America’s largest urban pathway and bikeway network , making it easy for travelers to explore the various neighborhoods, parks, public art installations , and more via bike (read: no rental car required!).

Mexico City, Mexico

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

Average cost: $660 for flight + hotel

“Part of the joy of visiting Mexico City is wandering around beautiful neighborhoods like Polanco and Roma and experiencing the local architecture and culture,” says Vazquez before adding, “You can set your own pace and wander blissfully on your own.” Mexico’s vibrant capital city is also world-renowned for its food scene and is home to several highly esteemed restaurants like Contramar and Meroma . Plus, “Finding a seat at the bar is easy if you're dining for one — you could even create your own personal food crawl!” The travel pro also recommends joining a Context Travel tour to visit the Frida Khalo house, telling T+L that “their small group tours are affordable and their guides are great.” Free attractions, including the Bosque de Chapultepec and the Palacio Nacional , also abound.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Average cost: $678 for flight + hotel

San Juan, Puerto Rico has already been named among the most affordable spots for a beach vacation , with affordable flights and hotel options to suit every type of traveler. Best of all: You don’t need a passport to visit. Solo travelers can spend their days by the beach or exploring San Juan’s majestic Old Town, where the cobblestone streets are dotted with colorful buildings, shops, restaurants, and bars, (don’t miss La Factoria for craft cocktails!). Snap photos along the Instagram-famous “Umbrella Street" (official name: Calle de la Fortaleza) before heading to the historic Castillo San Felipe del Morro fortress, complete with sweeping ocean views. While Old San Juan makes a great home base for exploring, Condado is another excellent option for beach lovers thanks to its oceanfront locale.

Panama City, Panama

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Average cost: $730 for flight + hotel

“ Panama City offers a similar experience to visiting Mexico City, only it's a good bit smaller and less intimidating as a solo traveler,” says Vazquez. Plus, “It's relatively easy (and cheap!) to get to, and once you're there, it's easy to navigate the different neighborhoods.” She’s also quick to call out the “incredible” food and “amazing” history — and recommends all solo travelers pay a visit to the Panama Canal. While mornings are best spent sightseeing — can’t-miss attractions include the Biomuseo , the Panama Canal Museum , and the 573-acre, flora- and fauna-filled Metropolitan Natural Park — afternoons and evenings are for bar-hopping around Casco Viejo, the city’s oldest and smallest quarter that just so happens to be teeming with nightlife. Last but not least, “The city also offers easy access to nature, so you can add on a few days for a fun outdoor adventure.”

Willemstad, Curaçao

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Average cost: $985 for flight + hotel

Pristine beaches, colorful architecture, a fascinating history, incredible diving, and a thriving arts and culture scene: Find all this and more on the Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao. The capital city of Willemstad boasts some seriously stunning architecture done up in pastel hues, and it also serves as the gateway to beautiful beaches, including Blue Bay, which just so happens to be a beloved diving site. The isle is also home to the 1732 Mikvé-Israel-Emanuel Synagogue , the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Americas. Visitors can embark on a self-guided street art tour of the city, which is teeming with colorful murals. A meal and a cocktail at Cast Away Beach Bar Restaurant at Playa Kalki is also a must. Plus, Curaçao is considered one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly Caribbean vacation destinations .

Nassau, The Bahamas

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Average cost: $998 for flight + hotel

Like San Juan, the Bahamian capital city of Nassau was also named among the best-value warm-weather vacation destinations thanks to its abundance of affordable flight options. Plus, it’s just a quick one- to three-hour flight from most East Coast cities, making for an ideal long weekend getaway. While nearby Paradise Island is home to some pricey hotels and attractions, it is possible to explore Nassau on a budget. For one, travelers can take their pick of pristine (and free!) stretches of sand, including the 2.5-mile-long Cable Beach and the mile-long Junkanoo Beach , which is within walking distance of the city’s famous Straw Market . Additionally, on a recent trip, I partook in a slew of low-cost activities, including a visit to the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas and a tour of John Watling's Distillery . The Queen's Staircase is located within the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex, which dates back to the late 18th century. After trekking the 60-plus steps, head to the Fish Fry (Arawak Cay), which is lined with colorful local eateries offering local delicacies like conch fritters and sky juice cocktails (coconut water, gin, and condensed milk served over ice) for a fraction of the price you’d find in local resorts.

Santiago, Chile

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Average cost: $1,049 for flight + hotel

With the value of the Chilean peso currently so low , there’s never been a better time for budget-conscious solo travelers to consider a trip to Chile’s capital city. “Santiago is beautiful and has access to all the incredible nature Chile has to offer, including Patagonia and wine country,” says Vazquez. However, that’s not to say you need to leave the city to enjoy some of the country’s best vinos — simply snag a seat at wine bars like Bocanáriz and Barrica 94 between sightseeing tours. And, speaking of the latter, don’t miss sites like La Chascona , the former home of famed Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, and the Gabriela Mistral Cultural Centre . Also, Vazquez explains, “What's great about traveling to Chile is most of the lodges include group activities and tours, so even if you’re solo, you're still connecting with other travelers each day.” She especially recommends Tierra Atacama , which just announced a $12 million refresh, and the Explora Lodge , which offers “a rich history of sustainability, originally owned by North Face founder Douglas Tompkins.”

Reykjavik, Iceland

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Average cost: $1,053 for flight + hotel

The Icelandic capital is known for being one of the safest cities thanks to its friendly locals and low crime rates, making it a solid choice for adventure-seeking and nature-loving solo travelers. Fly there via Icelandair or PLAY , both of which offer low-cost flight options from many U.S. cities. Upon landing, hit the ground running and get exploring: Start at The National Gallery of Iceland , the famous Hallgrímskirkja church, or the National Museum of Iceland before refueling with a meal at OTO (which serves up Italian and Asian fusion) or a cup of coffee at Kaffitar or Reykjavik Röst . Also, consider renting a car or partaking in a tour to explore nearby sites like Mount Esja or the Fagradalsfjall volcano — both of which are within an hour’s drive of the city — as well as Gullfoss Falls, which is a bit further away (about an hour and 45 minutes by car) and well worth the trek. Meanwhile, Sky Lagoon is an easy 15-minute drive from the city and attracts wellness-seekers from all over with its geothermal baths.

George Town, Cayman Islands

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Average cost: $1,204 for flight + hotel

“ Sometimes, all you need is a solo beach vacation , and this is the perfect place,” Vazquez says of George Town, the capital of the Cayman Islands. “You can be on the beach reading a book within 30 minutes of landing!” Located on Grand Cayman — known for its beautiful beaches and top-notch diving — this bustling port city offers an abundance of activities that run the gamut from distillery tours to pickleball. Alternatively, sun-seekers can head straight to the stunning Seven Mile Beach, while history buffs and art enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cayman Islands National Museum and The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands , respectively. Consider visiting in the summer or early fall, which coincides with the island’s low season. The result? Cheaper flights, lower rates on lodging, and fewer crowds.

The Golden Rules of Solo Travel

By Olivia Morelli

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The joys of traveling solo are endless. It is freeing to explore new places alone—you can go where you please, eat when you want, and enjoy quality time with yourself uninterrupted. The interest in solo travel has been slowly rising for a while, in tandem with the desire for deeper, slower, more connective trave l. For many, solo travel is the perfect way to achieve this—it provides an opportunity to trust your instinct, go with your gut, and get lost in the experience. You rely on yourself rather than on others’ whims or desires.

But, if you’re not a seasoned solo traveler, it can be a daunting prospect. In an age of constant connectivity, the idea of being alone for an extended period of time is stark. Below, we spoke to travelers who frequently book solo trips about their golden rules for traveling alone.

Dining alone isn’t weird

For most people, the thought of dining alone is one of the biggest barriers to traveling solo. But once you get past the conviction that everyone is noticing or judging you, it’s a totally freeing experience. “Dining alone isn’t as uncommon as you might imagine,” says Estée Lalonde, a creative director and influencer with a passion for solo travel. “I personally find it empowering! Sometimes I bring a book with me or watch an episode of my favorite show on Netflix with my headphones on, but other times I just enjoy the atmosphere and end up chatting to the people at the table next to me.”

Book counter dining at restaurants if it's too weird for you

If you are someone who does feel uncomfortable about dining alone, opt for a bar or counter seat. It’s much less intimidating than having a whole table to yourself, and you are more likely to end up chatting to the staff or the person sitting next to you. "The first time I went out for a meal alone, I went to JG Melon on the Upper East Side of New York City ,” Sarah James, Condé Nast Traveller ’s deputy digital editor, says. “I took a book, and nervously shuffled onto a bar stool for my burger—but ended up chatting away to the charming bartender and the women sat next to me. Now I often opt for a counter seat when eating alone, and no longer take a book with me. Either I end up talking to someone or just enjoy the peace. A general rule I live by—we're all so wrapped up in our own lives, no one is paying much attention to other people."

Consider a hostel

Not only are hostels affordable, but they're also great places to meet fellow travelers—whether they're in the same solo boat as you or not. Many have a cheap bar onsite that allows you to fall into natural conversation with compatriots who may become friends, or at least will have great tips for things to do.

Fake it till you make it

Most people feel nervous about meeting new people, and introverts especially struggle to make the first move when in a new place. But remember that everyone is in the same boat, and most solo travelers will have experienced those same emotions. The first five seconds are the hardest, but once you’ve introduced yourself, you’ll quickly realize it wasn’t as big a deal as you originally thought. You’d kick yourself if you let a bit of shyness ruin your trip, so use that as the motivation you need to approach a fellow traveler. And remember, if you present with confidence, that will show—fake it til you make it is a reliable life rule to follow.

Never consolidate all of your assets

“This is a lesson that I learned the hard way after getting pickpocketed in a crowded Jerusalem marketplace,” says global digital director Arati Menon, “I had stupidly carried all my credit cards and cash with me—luckily no passport!—in a single wallet and as a result, had no way of paying the hotel bill later that day when I checked out. Now, I always split my cards and cash (and IDs) across various places: wallet, purse, luggage—and if possible, store at least one of these in a locked safe back at the hotel.”

Don’t fear loneliness

“Remember that a bit of loneliness can be bracing and character-building,” says Toby Skinner, Condé Nast Traveller ’s features director. “My experience traveling is generally that people are decent, kind and interesting—and you found that out most acutely by being alone (whereas everyone leaves couples well alone.) Some of my most memorable travel experiences have been on my own—like when I was stranded in Nanjing at 2 a.m. by a delayed train in 2001, and a local student let me bunk in his dorm room for the night.”

Take the train

“While even the most extroverted of travelers avoid chit chat like the plague on a plane, I have found traveling by train to be a much more social means of transport," says associate editor Hannah Towey. "Last summer, I traveled solo on the Amtrak Coastal Starlight from Santa Barbara to San Francisco and spent the entirety of the 9-hour journey in the communal observation lounge, where fellow travelers rotated in and out, sharing tables and playing cards while admiring the views. As the sun set on the second half of the trip, a few musically-inclined passengers formed an impromptu band complete with an acoustic guitar and mandolin. Word slowly spread and others trickled in from other parts of the train to take turns singing songs in different languages. It might take a few more hours than a flight, but who knows, you might even find the Ethan Hawke to your Julie Delpy and spend a spontaneous evening together in Vienna.”

Plan around cultural events

Arriving at a destination just as the locals are gearing up for an important cultural event can be an incredible way to immerse yourself straight away. Look up religious festivals, bank holidays, and street parties to see what time is best to visit and plan accordingly. You’ll get a real flavor of the people, the food, and even the music, and you might end up making friends along the way.

Research solo travel in your destination

As obvious as “do your research” sounds, it’s an important step to remember. Look at online forums and speak to people who have previously visited the destination. What safety precautions should you be taking? Is it safe to walk between locations, or is it better to use taxis? Are taxis easy to find? What is the destination's culture like after dark? For women, in particular, it is best to plan ahead to avoid getting stranded in remote neighborhoods after dark.

Have a rough plan for each day

It can feel daunting waking up in a brand new destination and not knowing where to start, so make sure to create vague itineraries for your trip. What are your non-negotiables in this destination? Any big attractions you want to tick off? Restaurants you’ve been desperate to try? Beaches you’ve always wanted to visit? “I like to have 3-5 little activities in mind for each day, like visiting a particular store or trying the local cuisine,” Estée tells us. “If you have a bit of direction you can leave space in between each activity to be spontaneous and discover the local area.”

Build in group activities

Booking tours and group events is a great way to meet other travelers. Most hostels have a list of activities available for guests to sign up for, and if not, then there are walking tours or live music events at local bars. “Try to see people as opportunities," Toby advises. “I'd build in communal activities to your itinerary and remember that you’ll probably never see these people again, so you have nothing to lose in almost any interaction and possibly a lot to gain—though there might be a touch of male privilege in that.”

Walk as much as you can

“Sometimes when I travel to a new place, I can be nervous to leave my bed as a solo traveler,” Estée admits. “As soon as I get outside and start walking I feel better—like I’m part of the city and that I belong there!” Exploring by foot is a great way to get to know the bones of a destination. You’ll soon create a mental map of the area nearest your accommodation and might stumble upon some hidden gems you wouldn’t have come across otherwise.

Allow yourself to be spontaneous

On that note, try to allow yourself some spontaneity. Having a rough plan is definitely advisable, but don’t stop yourself from following your gut if you have a sudden urge to pop into a shop, follow the sound of the crowds or head for the beach. It’s often the spur-of-the-moment decisions that result in the best experiences.

Bring good books

It’s easy to whip out your phone and rely on scrolling when you’re by yourself, and while that is a great way to decompress if you’re feeling jittery, there are few things more romantic than settling in at a street-side cafe and getting lost in the pages of a good book .

Bring a journal

Journaling has become a popular pastime of late, and keeping a travel journal is a great way to combine the mental health benefits of getting out your thoughts and feelings with the memories and emotions of traveling solo. “I find all of that time alone enables me to clear my head, and journaling is a great way to regulate those emotions,” Estée explains.

Keep a separate copy of your personal details

Sounds old school, but in lieu of printing out paper copies of all your bank details, phone numbers, and accommodations details, try keeping a document of all your information and emailing it to yourself. This way, if you lose your phone, you can ask the reception of your accommodation or staff at a hotel/restaurant/bar to borrow a phone and log into your email account to access anything you need. It’s also worth memorizing your card details and any emergency phone numbers (both personal and local emergency service numbers).

Take other safety precautions

There are plenty of ways to protect yourself when traveling alone. Sharing your location with your friends and family back home is a lovely way to keep in touch without having to actually message them—they can watch your journey from afar and keep track of your whereabouts if you haven’t contacted them for a while. Remember to bring a padlock for your backpack and lockers if you’re staying in hostels, and study basic phrases in the language of your destination, just in case you get lost and need some help.

Don’t forget insurance

There’s always something that doesn’t go to plan on any trip, and as a solo traveler, you’ll want to make sure you mitigate any stress that comes from changing itineraries. Buying travel insurance is the best way to protect yourself from any transport cancellations and unforeseen circumstances, and will cover any costs from injuries or thefts. Sounds scary, but it’ll be worth it if the worst happens!

A version of this story originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller .

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Your Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel in Bratislava, Slovakia
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Your Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel in Bratislava, Slovakia

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COMMENTS

Solo Travel in Slovakia
Prices in Slovakia. If you are travelling on budget, you should be aware of fact that Slovakia is becoming more expensive. (But in comparison with for example Iceland, Slovakia is really, really cheap country). 1 night for 1 person in a 3* hotel or family owned guesthouse costs around 30-50 EUR, depending pretty much on the region.
The Ultimate Bratislava Solo Travel Guide
Capital and largest city of Slovakia, with a population of about ... Best hostel for solo travelers in Bratislava: Urban Elephant (18-34 age only). Lots of nightly party events hosted with the partner hostel (Wild Elephant); this one is just a bit more relaxed and less crazy. Great atmosphere, welcoming staff, and clean rooms.
Slovakia Travel Guide (Updated 2024)
Slovakia Travel Costs. Accommodation - Hostel dorms are the cheapest option in Slovakia. A bed in a 6-8-bed dorm costs 13-17 EUR per night, while 10-15-bed dorms are 9-11 EUR. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most have kitchens. For a private room, expect to pay around 33-38 EUR per night.
Your Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel in Bratislava, Slovakia
Updated May 25, 2021. Who loves solo travel? We do! One of my most favorite trips ever-and favorite solo trips-was my visit to Bratislava in 2012.
Bratislava Solo Travel 2024: The Ultimate Guide for Solo Female
A Comprehensive Guide to Solo Travel in Bratislava. Discover the best tips and experiences for solo female travel in Bratislava, Slovakia. This ultimate Bratislava Solo travel guide covers itineraries, day trips, and more. As a gem of Eastern Europe, Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, holds a unique appeal for travelers.
Solo travel to Bratislava including legit travel tips
Tickets cost €0.70/0.90/1.20 for 15/30/60 minutes. Important Bus lines are 93 Main train station to Hodžovo nám then Petržalka train station. Trolleybus 207 Hodžovo nám to Bratislava Castle. Trolleybus 210 Bratislava bus station to main train station. Alternatively, you can download Uber for going around in Bratislava.
Bratislava solo travel: experiencing the European city with a low crime
Where to stay in Bratislava: best accommodations for solo travelers. When traveling solo, the best option is to stay in hostels in Bratislava. A standard (but decent) bed in a dorm starts at $9 USD per night per person. Below are my favorite solo traveler accommodations in Bratislava: Chors Capsule Hostel. 💲 dorms from $22 USD per night
Is Slovakia Worth Visiting Solo? Solo Female Travel in Slovakia
Solo travel experience. Bratislava, Slovakia 🇸🇰 As a solo traveler, I think it's a safe city and prices are reasonable whether it's the food, coffee, or the tickets in general. 🩵 I have visited two restaurants and for €10 you can get a very nice quality of meals. Less than €3 can get you a nice quality and quantity of latte or ...
Solo trip to Bratislava. Is it worth it?
Safety. Bratislava is a very safe destination for solo travelers, men and women. I walked alone after sunset and the city gave me a strong sense of security. As in all cities, you must follow the basic rules of logic (do not walk in narrow and dark places at 3 in the morning alone and other such crazy things that you would not do in your city ...
Solo Travel Guide: Bratislava City, Slovakia » Hayley on Hiatus
Wedged between 5 other countries, the capital city is located in the South Western region of Slovakia. Bordering Austria and Hungary, it's the only capital that borders two other countries. It's quite easy to visit if you're traveling from another European country via buses, trains, or boats.
Slovakia Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice
Welcome to the Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice page for Slovakia! This page is brought to you by Solo Female Travelers Tours, our curated small group trips for women, by women. On this page you will find first-hand, unbiased, and real safety tips, advice and reviews from women traveling solo, submitted directly from their personal ...
Slovakia For Solo Women Travelers (2024)
Slovakia For Solo Women Travelers - Cities To Visit Explore Bratislava. For Latina solo travelers, Bratislava in Slovakia is an inviting blend of history and modernity. Its enchanting old town, lively bars, and iconic castle make a perfect 2-3 day visit. Don't miss Bratislava Castle, St. Michael's Gate, and Primate's Palace.
One Week In Slovakia Itinerary
Day 1: Bratislava. Spend your first day exploring the capital of Slovakia, home to a charming Old Town and a historic castle on a hill. Start by wandering the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where you can learn a lot about the history of Bratislava. The Old Town is relatively small, and you can quickly go from one end to the other in just ...
Slovakia Travel Guides, Itineraries, and More
13 Awesome Things to Do in Kosice, Slovakia for Solo Travelers. A Complete Guide to Backpacking Kosice. By Pete R. on June 19, 2021. Join Our BucketListly Blog Newsletter Today. GET A FREE LIGHTROOM PRESET. Join our community of over 4,500 readers and receive a free Lightroom preset from us. In addition, you'll get travel news, updates, and ...
The Ultimate Guide to Bratislava
A bus to Vienna will cost you five euros and there are several bus companies that travel to Vienna a couple of times a day. These are Flixbus, Regiojet and Slovak Lines. Bratislava to Poland: From the Central bus station you can also take busses to Poland. It will take around 6 and a half hours to get to Krakow.
Alone, Happily Alone, in the Tatra Mountains
Surrounded by natural majesty, I finally understood that the "solo" part of "solo travel" can actually be the most rewarding. Sebastian Modak is the 2019 52 Places Traveler.
Top Solo Travel Tips in Slovakia
Slovakia; Solo Travel Tips; Latest Post. 25 Safest Countries In The World (2024) Solo Travel Tips 12 Mins Read Join The GAFFL Newsletter Join our subscriber list to receive the best tips on solo travel, helpful travel guides, inspirational travel stories, and more. You can unsubscribe anytime with just one click.
A Bratislava travel guide: The BEST things to do see and eat
2. Go up the UFO Bridge: If you liked the statues in the Old Town, then you cannot miss the final one, which was moved out of the city into the UFO restaurant. Go to the UFO Bridge and get the elevator to the restaurant. This is a great opportunity to have a fresh drink whilst watching the city from above for only €7.
5 Best Slovakia Tours for Singles / Solo Travelers
See the best tours for singles in Slovakia. Meet other travelers while exploring places like Bratislava and Levoca. All major brands. Biggest Selection. Best Prices. Shop 2,500 operators. 4.5 stars on ... 5 Slovakia tours for Singles / Solo Travelers with 13 reviews View Map
Is Slovakia Safe for Solo Female Travelers? Solo Travel Safety Index
Solo travel experience. Bratislava, Slovakia 🇸🇰 As a solo traveler, I think it's a safe city and prices are reasonable whether it's the food, coffee, or the tickets in general. 🩵 I have visited two restaurants and for €10 you can get a very nice quality of meals. Less than €3 can get you a nice quality and quantity of latte or ...
Vienna to Bratislava Day Trip: 1-Day Solo Itinerary
Time: 1 hour 15 mins (3 boats per day) Cost: €33 (each way) Schedule for Vienna to Bratislava: 8:30 am. Schedule for Bratislava to Vienna: 6:30 pm. Book your ticket on the Twin City Liner website. The scenic boat will arrive near the SNP bridge on north side of the Danube River.
13 Awesome Things to Do in Kosice, Slovakia for Solo Travelers
Admire the St. Elisabeth's Cathedral. Witness the Beauty of the Jakab Palace. Check out all the beautiful architecture in the Town's Old Square. Wonder at the origin of the Kosice Gold Treasure. A Day trip to Spis Castle. Eat at Med Malina. Get a quick morning coffee fix at Cup of coffee.
Slovakia Tours for Singles & Solo Travellers
The Solo Travel Tours Comparison allows you to easily find, compare & book thousands of wonderful Slovakia group tours and Slovakia round trips with many cheap single room options for solo travelers or friends. Your Slovakia tour bookings are thus not just easy and cheap, but they also indirectly support our engagement for solo travelers ...
A Guide to Exploring the High Tatras of Slovakia
Solo travel in the High Tatras of Slovakia: Is it safe? A small High Tatras village between Poprad and Nova Lesna. Even though few people speak English, I felt very safe living, hiking, eating and chilling alone in the High Tatras. The hiking trails are well-marked and easy to follow; the locals don't smile often but do go out of their way to ...
Best Solo Travel Destinations Slovakia
Easily find the best solo travel destinations Slovakia and unforgettable tours suitable for solo travelers & friends with only little or no single supplement...
Slovakia Tours for Young Adults
Wonderful Slovakia Tours for Young Adults & Young Solo Travelers traveling alone or with friends: many cheap single room options available...
The best solo travel destinations from a long-time solo traveller
The best solo travel destinations, according to a long-time solo traveller. Travelling alone can be one of life's most rewarding experiences, says Tracey Davies, editor of 101 Singles Holidays.
10 Cheap Solo Vacations Around the World
George Town, Cayman Islands. Marc Guitard/Getty Images. Average cost: $1,204 for flight + hotel. " Sometimes, all you need is a solo beach vacation, and this is the perfect place," Vazquez ...
The Golden Rules of Solo Travel
Dining alone isn't weird. For most people, the thought of dining alone is one of the biggest barriers to traveling solo. But once you get past the conviction that everyone is noticing or judging ...
This Is the Number One Safest Country to Solo Travel In
According to Bounce's analysis, Japan is the safest country for solo travelers. Thanks to an extraordinarily low crime rate, cities like Tokyo and Osaka allow solo travelers to feel "right at ...

Solo Travel in Slovakia

Martin Talač

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Bratislava Solo Travel Guide

QUICK FACTS

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

WHERE TO STAY

GETTING AROUND

BRATISLAVA NIGHTLIFE

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

INTERESTING WALKS

LOCAL WISDOM

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Slovakia Travel Guide

Table of Contents

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Slovakia

1. Explore Bratislava

2. Visit Košice

3. See Banská Štiavnica

4. Hike Slovak Paradise National Park

5. Take a wine tour

Other Things to See and Do in Slovakia

2. Go rock climbing

3. Run the oldest marathon in Europe

4. Relax in a thermal cave bath

5. Tour the Nedbalka Gallery

6. Hike the smallest alpine mountain range in Europe

7. Explore an ice cave

8. Visit the Old Market Hall (Stará tržnica)

9. Go hiking

10. Hit the slopes

Slovakia Travel Costs

Backpacking Slovakia Suggested Budgets

Slovakia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Where to Stay in Slovakia

How to Get Around Slovakia

When to Go to Slovakia

How to Stay Safe in Slovakia

Slovakia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

Slovakia Travel Guide: Related Articles

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Your Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel in Bratislava, Slovakia

Why Bratislava?

Want more? Confessions of a Solo Female Traveler

Safety first! How to Travel Safely

Read on: Must Have Solo Travel Skills

Get more: Your Ultimate Guide to Accommodations

For more, check out 10 Reasons to Visit Bratislava !

Hungry for more? What to Eat in Bratislava

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Bratislava Solo Travel 2024: The Ultimate Guide for Solo Female Travelers

A Comprehensive Guide to Solo Travel in Bratislava

Why Choose Bratislava for Solo Travel?

Is Solo Travel Safe in Bratislava?

How Safe Is Bratislava For Solo Female Travelers?

The Safest Areas in Bratislava for Solo Travelers

Tips to Ensure Your Solo Trip to Bratislava Is Safe

How to Plan Your Itinerary for a Solo Trip to Bratislava

Planning a Day Trip Around Bratislava

Worthwhile Day Trips from Bratislava

Vienna to Bratislava: A Side Trip For Solo Travelers

Recommended Day Itinerary for Vienna to Bratislava Day Trip

What to Expect from Your Vienna to Bratislava Trip

Where to Eat and Stay in Bratislava as a Solo Traveler

Solo Traveler-Friendly Accommodations in Bratislava

How to Navigate Nightlife as a Solo Traveler in Bratislava