Slovakia Travel Information

Slovakia is a small country located in central Europe that is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly people. From scenic mountains to quaint villages, there is something for everyone in this charming country. Here are the top 10 things to do in Slovakia:

1. Visit the High Tatra Mountains

The High Tatra Mountains are a stunning mountain range located in northern Slovakia. This area is known for its picturesque landscapes, breathtaking views, and opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. The Tatras are also home to many endemic species of flora and fauna and are a must-visit for nature lovers.

2. Explore the medieval town of Bardejov

Bardejov is a well-preserved medieval town located in northeastern Slovakia. This town is known for its charming architecture, historic town square, and numerous cultural monuments, including the church of St. Giles, the town hall, and the clock tower. Bardejov is also famous for its rich cultural and historical heritage, making it a must-visit destination for history and culture buffs.

3. Take a dip in the thermal baths of Tatralandia

Tatralandia is a large thermal park located in the Tatra Mountains, offering visitors a chance to relax and rejuvenate in the warm waters of its numerous pools and slides. The park is equipped with a variety of facilities, including restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a great place to spend a day with friends or family.

4. Walk through the historic center of Bratislava

Bratislava is the capital city of Slovakia and is known for its charming old town, historic buildings, and picturesque views of the Danube River. Visitors can take a walk through the historic center and visit notable sites such as the Bratislava Castle, the Slovak National Theatre, and the St. Martin's Cathedral.

5. Visit the Slovak National Museum

The Slovak National Museum is the largest cultural institution in Slovakia and is dedicated to preserving the country's rich cultural and historical heritage. The museum has numerous exhibitions and collections that showcase the country's art, history, and natural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about Slovakia's past and present.

6. Visit the Spis Castle

Spis Castle is one of the largest castles in Europe and is located in the eastern part of Slovakia. This medieval castle is known for its stunning views of the surrounding countryside, its well-preserved architecture, and its rich history. Visitors can tour the castle's various rooms and exhibitions, including the museum of history and the exposition of weapons and armor.

7. Explore the caves of Demanovska Valley

The Demanovska Valley is a picturesque valley located in the Low Tatras Mountains and is known for its numerous caves. Visitors can take guided tours through the caves and explore the unique rock formations, underground lakes, and other natural wonders that are found within.

8. Walk along the Coronation Route

The Coronation Route is a historic path that was once used by kings and other royalty to travel from Vienna to Budapest. This route passes through many charming towns and villages and is a great way to experience the rural side of Slovakia. Visitors can walk along the route and explore the traditional architecture, quaint local markets, and stunning countryside that line the path.

9. Visit the Museum of Jewish Culture

The Museum of Jewish Culture is a cultural institution dedicated to preserving the rich history and culture of Slovakia's Jewish community. The museum has numerous exhibitions and collections that showcase the contributions of Jewish people to Slovakian society and culture, including their art, music, and literature.

10. Take a scenic train ride

Slovakia has a well-developed railway system that offers visitors a chance to explore the country's stunning landscapes and charming villages. Visitors can take a scenic train ride and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Tatra Mountains, the rolling hills of the countryside, and the picturesque villages that line the tracks. The train ride is a great way to experience the beauty of Slovakia and to learn about its rich cultural heritage.

Climate

Slovakia has a temperate continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. The average temperature in the summer months (June to August) ranges from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, while the average temperature in the winter months (December to February) ranges from -5 to 0 degrees Celsius.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Slovakia depends on what you want to do while you're there. If you want to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or skiing, then the summer and winter months are ideal. If you prefer to explore the cities and cultural attractions, then spring and autumn are the best times to visit as the temperatures are mild and the crowds are smaller.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

Hotels are one of the most popular forms of accommodation in Slovakia. They vary in size, price and standard, from small family-run establishments to large international chains. They offer amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, room service, and on-site restaurants.

Bed and Breakfast

Bed and breakfast (B&B) options are also available in Slovakia. These typically offer a more personal experience, with owners on hand to provide local knowledge and recommendations. B&Bs often offer a homemade breakfast and a comfortable and homely atmosphere.

Hostels

Hostels are a budget-friendly accommodation option in Slovakia. They are a great choice for young people, backpackers, and budget travelers. Hostels offer shared dormitory-style rooms, with shared bathroom facilities and a common area. Some hostels may also offer private rooms.

Apartments

Renting an apartment is a good option for travelers who want more space, privacy, and independence. There are many holiday apartments available for rent, especially in tourist areas and cities. Apartments usually come equipped with a kitchen, allowing travelers to save money on meals by cooking for themselves.

Camping

For those who prefer to be closer to nature, camping is a popular option in Slovakia. There are many campsites located throughout the country, including some in national parks. Most campsites offer basic facilities such as toilets, showers, and electricity.

Train

The train network in Slovakia is well-developed and trains are a convenient way to travel around the country. Trains are comfortable and provide scenic views of the countryside. There are regular services between major cities and tourist destinations.

Bus

Buses are also a popular form of transportation in Slovakia. They are a more budget-friendly option compared to trains and offer a more frequent service to smaller towns and villages.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Slovakia and are a convenient option for getting around, especially in cities. However, it is important to use licensed taxi companies, as there have been instances of people being overcharged or taken for a ride by unlicensed drivers.

Car Rental

Renting a car is a good option for those who want more flexibility and independence when traveling. There are many car rental companies in Slovakia, with a range of vehicles to choose from. It is important to familiarize yourself with local driving laws and regulations.

Bicycle

Cycling is a popular activity in Slovakia, especially in the countryside and national parks. Bicycles can be rented in tourist areas, and there are many dedicated cycle paths and trails to explore. This is an environmentally friendly and healthy way to see the country.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.