The Bratislava Castle is a dominant feature of the city and the symbol of Slovakia's capital. The castle offers panoramic views of the city and Danube river, and is home to a variety museum exhibitions that showcase the history and culture of Slovakia.
The Demanovska Cave of Liberty is one of the most visited caves in Slovakia. The cave system stretches over 8km and boasts incredible stalactites and stalagmites formations with underground waterfalls and lakes. Visitors can tour the caves with experienced guides.
The High Tatras is the highest range of the Carpathian Mountains with picturesque valleys, peaks, forests, and mountain lakes. Visitors can hike the trails or use cable cars, and enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife at their own pace.
The Spiš Castle is one of the largest castle ruins in Europe that tells the story of a local community that built and maintained the castle for centuries. The castle sits atop a hill and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding towns and countryside.
The Slovak Paradise National Park is a nature reserve characterized by its deep canyons, waterfalls, and gorges. The park offers a network of marked trails and ladders that provide visitors with an adventurous journey through the Slovak Paradise.
Bojnice Castle is a romantic medieval castle nestled in the southwestern part of Slovakia. The castle is known for its unique architecture and the widespread belief that it is often visited by ghosts. Visitors can tour the castle, experience the haunted nighttime tours, and visit the local zoo.
The Slovak Karst is a natural park with an intricate system of caves, canyons, and sinkholes. The park also provides visitors with an opportunity to participate in cave explorations and tours, and learn about the Karst history and geology.
Travelers should consider renting a car to have the freedom to move around and explore Slovakia. Public transportation is also available, including buses and trains that connect the major cities and national parks. The estimated cost of renting a car for a week is around $300-$500, and public transportation costs should range anywhere between $70-$100 depending on the itinerary.
For those with extra time, consider visiting other nearby attractions such as the Orava Castle, Trenčín Castle, or the Zemplínska Šírava lake. For those with less time, consider cutting a location from the itinerary or making the trip shorter by skipping the Slovak Karst National Park. Additionally, be mindful of the weather when planning and packing for the trip, as it can significantly affect the sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The main airport in Slovakia is the M. R. Štefánik Airport (BTS), also known as Bratislava Airport, located in Bratislava. The airport is situated about 9 miles northeast of the city center and offers flights to many European destinations.