17 Things to do in Bratislava
Stroll the cobblestone streets, trek the forested trails and please your palette with authentic gastronomy in Slovakia’s capital. With cuisine and culture at its heart, here are the top things to do in Bratislava.
Bordering Austria and Hungary, Bratislava is tucked along the iconic Danube River. The Slovakian capital is surrounded by verdant vineyards and the Little Carpathian mountains, both of which appeal to wine enthusiasts and active holidaymakers.
Crisscross the forested hiking trails, peer up at the Bratislava Castle or pitter-patter through the pedestrianised, 18th-century old town. With a huge haul of museums, art galleries and awe-inspiring architectural attractions, it’s easy to see why Bratislava is worth visiting.
These top-rated things to do will have you on the edge of your seat, whether you’ve got a whole week or 1 day in Bratislava. History, culture and copious amounts of fried cheese await…
17 Best Things to do in Bratislava
In this guide we cover the top activities and attractions in Bratislava, the best time to visit, how to get around and where to stay. So, let’s get to business.
Here’s a summary of the top-rated things to do in Bratislava, Slovakia.
Bratislava Old Town
Sky Bar
Cuisine
Segway Tour
Michael’s Gate
Slavin
Blue Church
UFO Bridge & Observation Deck
Primate’s Palace
Lemontree & Sky Bar
St Martins Cathedral
Old Town Hall
Grassalkovich Palace
Bratislava Castle
Eurovea Waterfront
Kapitulska Street
Devin Castle
17. Bratislava Old Town
Let’s kick off this list with one of the best things to do in Bratislava if you only have one day.
Slovakia’s capital is carved with a wealth of history and highlights, and you can find a long list of things to do in the Old Town. Locally known as Staré Mesto, the well-preserved city centre is a medieval melting pot.
Pop into 15th-century St Martins Cathedral, learn about the city at the Old Town Hall and don’t miss Laurinská Brána, a site where an ancient city gate used to be. Wander around and spot sculptures like ‘Cumil’, ‘The Witch’ and ‘Schöne Náci’.
The old town is webbed with a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, lifelike statues and quirky finds. Take a break from sightseeing in the famous Hlavné Námestie, a cafe-lined square that’s inundated with Viennese-inspired coffee shops like Mondieu and Verne. Top tip: Stop for a chocolate macchiato!
16. Sky Bar
Next up, let’s get high. Not literally. But physically. Lol.
The Sky Bar in Bratislava boasts breathtaking views, as you’d imagine. Imagine watching the sunset on a glass rooftop as you sip traditional Slovak spirits like Slivovica and Tatratea. Divine!
Peer through grandiose windows and down into the Old Town. Spot landmarks and castles from afar as you let your mind wander. If you’ve got a couple of hours to kill, the Sky Bar is one of the best things to do in Bratislava.
The space is spread over two floors; the 7th floor has a bar and a restaurant, while the 8th floor has a patio with a restaurant area and cocktail area.
15. Traditional Food
Would this list really be a list if it didn’t include the cuisine?! I mean, cmon…
The culinary scene makes Bratislava worth visiting on its own. Pack your appetite, because your Bratislava trip is about to be taken to the next level.
Firstly, I want to honour my fellow cheese lovers. If you’re as addicted as me, this city is going to satiate all of your cheesy dreams. Do yourself a favour and try beer cheese. Yes, those are two words that I didn’t even know could go into the same sentence… Picture a Brie-like cheese that’s covered with freshly-poured beer and served on deep-fried toast. Uh, heavenly.
Like most Central European countries, traditional Slovak food is both hearty and heavy. The dishes are made up of potatoes, cheese, dumplings and lots of meat.
Start with a cabbage or sauerkraut dish as an entree, then make room for the main plate. Popular food to eat in Bratislava includes Bryndzové halušky, potato dumplings with sheep cheese and bacon, and pirohy, pierogi dumplings. These hearty dishes will have you in a major food coma. It’s no secret that the cuisine makes for one of the top things to do in Bratislava, Slovakia.
14. Segway Tour
This activity is a little bit touristy, but it’s a whole lot of fun!
While a segway tour isn’t always the best way of seeing a city, it sure can help to speed things up. If you’ve only got one day in Bratislava, I can understand that you want to make the most of your time.
This eco-friendly segway tour offers some insight into the city’s rich history, thanks to the expert guide. You can choose between three different tour routes, customising your Bratislava trip to your preferences.
Experience the Slovak capital from a different perspective and pair it with a visit to Bratislava Castle. Ride the segway up to a panoramic terrace and spot neighbouring countries like Austria and Hungary. If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Bratislava, a segway tour serves as a gateway to see the top sites.
13. Michael’s Gate
Any Bratislava holiday wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Michael’s Gate.
This symbolic site serves as the ultimate backdrop for many of the city’s postcards, and it’s not hard to see why. Bratislava was once surrounded by large city walls, but nowadays, only one of the four gates has been preserved. The Michalská gate was completed in the 14th century and got its name from the Gothic church of St. Michal.
Highlights include the high, onion-shaped roof, the towers, the roofs and the balcony. This last hot spot boasts epic panoramas of the castle hill, as well as the villa neighbourhood on the hilltops. As one of the oldest landmarks in the Old Town, Michael’s Gate is a strong contender for the top things to do in Bratislava.
12. Slavín
Slavin is perched on a hilltop overlooking Bratislava Castle and dominates the capital city’s skyline.
As one of the largest war memorials in Europe, this tall monument serves as the burial ground of nearly seven thousand soldiers from the Soviet army. These soldiers passed away during the liberation of Bratislava from German troops in World War II.
One of the most impactful parts of Slavin can be seen on top of the central stone pillar. You’ll find a statue of a Soviet soldier who’s hoisting up a flag and stepping on a swastika.
This gigantic war memorial offers scenic panoramas across the city and it’s also a nice place for a walk. Set in one of the more wealthy districts in the city, the neighbourhood is home to villas from the Austro-Hungarian and interwar periods. Pair your visit to Slavin with a stroll around the area, or head into nearby Horský Park.
11. Blue Church
If you’re on the hunt for things to do in Bratislava in one day, the Blue Church is a must-see.
The Church of St. Elizabeth, also known as Blue Church, is located on the eastern end of the city’s Old Town. Marvel at the unusual art nouveau style, also known as Hungarian Secession. And if you want to see a lookalike, head to the nearby grammar school on Grösslingová Street.
Built in the early twentieth century, both the interior and exterior are painted and decorated in shades of blue. Don’t forget to peer up at the roof - it’s tiled with blue-glazed ceramics. This striking building is only about a five- to ten-minute walk from the Old Town.
10. UFO Bridge & Observation Deck
Due to its flying saucer shape, this landmark is commonly referred to as the UFO Bridge.
The Most SNP (Bridge of the Slovak National Uprising) is an impressive structure that sits around 95 metres (312 feet) high.
Catch the elevator to the top (it’s cheaper on weekdays than weekends) and pop out to the observation deck.
Spot the Old Town and Castle, as well as the Petržalka neighbourhood. Once you’re satisfied with your sightseeing, taste the flavours of traditional Slovak cuisine at the restaurant.
If you visit Bratislava between April and October, you can participate in the Skywalk.
This adrenaline-packed adventure takes place over 60 metres (200 ft) high in the sky. Walking around the dome makes for one of the best things to do in Bratislava.
9. Primate’s Palace
What would a trip to Europe be without a little bit of history… Right?
Primate’s Palace is crowned with exhibitions, furniture and architecture that’ll blow your mind. Admire the portraits of Hungarian rulers in the picture gallery and peep up at the statues on the roof. Don’t miss the Hall of Mirrors, a superb spot which is nowadays used to host everything from important meetings to concerts.
Appreciate the rare collection of 17th-century English tapestries before heading down to the inner courtyard. Here, you’ll find the fountain of St George, a legendary knight known for slaying the dragon. If you’re into history, Primate’s Palace is a must-see thing to do in Bratislava.
8. Bars & Nightlife
Not every trip has to be filled with culture, food and history. In fact, a little fun on a night out can really put the cherry on top of your travels.
If you want to visit Bratislava, you may be wondering about the city’s nightlife. Whether you want to party ‘til you’re purple or sip a few discerning drinks in a cool bar, you’ll be surprised about how much is stuffed into this city.
Sewn with a slew of great cocktail bars, Mirror Bar and Antique American Bar steal the show. And if you find yourself wanting to keep the party going, take things up a notch in the nightlife scene. Popular clubs in Bratislava include Rio Grande Night Bar Trafo Music Bar and Fuga.
7. St Martin’s Cathedral
St Martin's Cathedral is one of the oldest and biggest churches in the Slovak capital, and it’s situated on the western end of the historical city centre.
This three-nave Gothic cathedral was built on top of a Romanesque Church, to become a part of the city walls. The tower served as a defensive bastion, and when you get up close to the building you can really see why.
The interior is nearly 70 metres long, and it features four chapels; the Canons’ Chapel, the Gothic chapel of Sophia of Bavaria, the Chapel of St Anne and the Baroque Chapel of St John the Merciful.
As one of the oldest examples of Renaissance architecture in Slovakia, St Martin’s Cathedral is one of the top things to do in Bratislava.
6. Old Town Hall
We’ve touched on the Old Town quite a bit, but we have yet to brush over the Old Town Hall.
This Bratislava landmark hones in on the city’s history, but with a different perspective. Encompassing unique architectural influences from the 14th to 20th centuries, the oldest part is a house with a tower that once was owned by a local. It wasn’t until the 15th century that the house officially became the town hall. Over the centuries, modifications were made to areas of the buildings.
With a mix of Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque influences, you can even find original interior decorations from the Middle Ages. If you’re a history nut, the Old Town Hall is the top thing to do in Bratislava.
5. Grassalkovich Palace
Get ready for all things royal, because Grassalkovich Palace serves it up on a silver platter.
The palace in Bratislava is the residence of the President of Slovakia. So yeah, it’s kind of a big deal. Grassalkovich Palace is located in Hodžovo Square, right near the 17th-century Episcopal Summer Palace, which was the former residence of the Archbishop of Esztergom.
This grandiose building is a Rococo/late Baroque summer palace with a picture-perfect French garden. Originally, it was built in the 18th century as a palace for the Croatian-Hungarian aristocrat, Antal Grassalkovich.
It’s just a few minutes walk from the city’s Old Town, making it well worth visiting. Stop by the earth-shaped fountain in front of the palace and wind up your visit with some time in the Presidential Garden. Now serving as a public park, you can access this leafy part by heading down Banskobystrická Street or Štefanikova Street.
4. Bratislava Castle
If you visit Bratislava, you probably want to tick some castles off your bucket list.
The Bratislava Castle is emblematic - it sits on the cusp of a rocky outcrop in the Little Carpathians. Overlooking the Danube River, the sites are as scenic as they can get.
It’s believed that the hill has been inhabited since the late Stone Age, so you can just imagine how much history is woven throughout these streets.
Over the centuries, the Bratislava Castle has acted as a melting pot for various architectural styles.
The stone fortress was once turned Gothic, then Renaissance, and nowadays, it’s bursting with Baroque style. The castle also houses the Slovak National Museum, further ramping up the list of the top things to do in Bratislava, Slovakia.
3. Eurovea Waterfront
If you tire of the teeming historical hot spots, marvel at the city views from the Eurovea Waterfront.
Shop ‘til you drop on the bank of the Danube, and when you’re done maxing out your credit card, flop over to the riverside park and soak in the vistas. In this cultural centre, there are many events taking place. Whether it’s the markets at Christmas time or a concert during the summer season, this place offers a nice change of scenery.
The Eurovea Waterfront is one of the top-rated things to do in Bratislava in one day, especially if you want a mix of shopping and relaxation. Better yet, it’s only a short, 10-minute walk from the Old Town.
2. Kapitulska Street
Step foot on one of the oldest streets in Bratislava. No wait, strut it. Yeah, that sounds better. Strut your stuff!
Kapitulska Street is steeped deep in sites, from the cobblestone path to the cathedral serving as a backdrop. This place oozes authenticity, and whether you wind up here on a tour or by chance, there’s no doubt you’ll feel the history.
The entire street is owned by the Catholic Church, but during the Communist era, it was seized and became damaged. There’s an open-door event twice a year that allows you to go beyond the closed gates. Venture beyond the yards and check out the underground chapel and secret garden.
1. Devin Castle
No Bratislava trip would be complete without a visit to Devin Castle.
If you’ve seen photos, postcards or anything regarding the Slovak capital, you’ve probably seen its iconic white castle. Devin Castle sits high up on the hilltops above the Old Town, and the scenery from up here is nothing short of spectacular.
This is one of the oldest castles in Slovakia, making it one of the best things to do in Bratislava. Devin Castle sits on Slovak territory, but it’s right up against the border with Austria.
As you wander around the ruins, be sure to peer down at the Danube and Morava Rivers to get a glimpse of just how high you are (212 metres, to be exact). The ruins are not too big, and the castle serves as a museum with several exhibitions.
More Things to do in Bratislava
We’ve ticked off the biggest highlights in this guide. If you’re still on the hunt for things to do, add these gems to your Bratislava bucket list:
Rubberneck (Čumil)
Matej Krén Passage
Horsky Park
Danubiana Muelensteen Art Museum
Central Europe Itinerary: 3 Weeks
Now that you’ve got the rundown on the best things to do in Bratislava, why not combine your Slovakia trip with a 3-week Europe itinerary?
Level up your holidays with classical music, awe-inspiring art and stunning scenery in Central Europe. From the Czech Republic’s Prague to the High Tatras, this 21-day itinerary will have you crawling back for more. Here’s a quick summary of how you could spend 3 weeks in Central Europe:
Day 1-2: Berlin, Germany
Day 3: Munich, Germany
Day 4-5: Prague, Czech Republic
Day 6-7: Kraków, Poland
Day 8-9: Warsaw, Poland
Day 10-11: Bratislava, Slovakia
Day 12-14: High Tatras, Slovakia
Day 15-17: Budapest, Hungary
Day 18-21: Vienna, Austria
Best Time to Visit Bratislava
The best time to visit Bratislava all comes down to your preferences for weather, events and crowds. Here's a basic breakdown of what to expect in each season:
Spring
From March to May, you’ll experience pleasant temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
During this time, the parks and gardens, like Sad Janka Kráľa and the Bratislava Castle grounds, are absolutely breathtaking.
Compared to the summer season, there are fewer crowds and relatively affordable accommodation prices.
If you travel to Bratislava during the spring, don’t miss the Easter markets and cultural festivities.
Summer
From June to August, the weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). This is the ideal time for outdoor activities, but it’s also the busiest season in Slovakia. If you’re looking for things to do in Bratislava in one day, visiting during the summer will help you see all the highlights. Plus, there are also plenty of music festivals taking place, like the Bratislava Jazz Days.
Autumn
From September to November, the weather is quite cool and crisp, with averages of 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). You can experience the fall foliage painting the city’s parks and vineyards. Plus, harvest season offers local wine festivals and markets, perfect for seeing a different side of the city. With fewer tourists and budget-friendly prices on accommodation, the off-season is a great time to visit. If you’re a music lover, don’t miss the Bratislava Music Festival, which takes place in late September/October.
Winter
From December to February, the wintertime hones in on temperatures around -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F). Yikes. The upside to visiting Bratislava during this time is the Christmas Markets. Seeing snow-laced castles really feels a lot more magical when it’s in the freezing cold, right? During the Christmas period, you can catch a variety of winter concerts and events.
How to Get Around Bratislava
Getting around Bratislava is convenient, efficient and surprisingly, cost-effective. Thanks to its compact city centre and public transport system, you’ll breeze through the big attractions. Here's a quick guide with everything you need to know:
Walking
Get your walking boots on, because this city was made for walking. Whether you want to moonwalk, slide or shuffle your way through the Old Town, there’s no better way to do it than on two feet. Explore the Staré Mesto and nearby attractions like Bratislava Castle, St. Martin's Cathedral and the Slovak National Theatre.
Public Transport
Next up, public transport. The Slovak capital’s network is operated by Dopravný podnik Bratislava (DPB) and it includes buses, trams and trains. Reaching the city centre and surrounding suburbs is fairly straightforward and tickets can be bought from the ticket machines, newsstands, DPB offices or through the mobile app.
To get transport to nearby cities, head to Bratislava Main Train Station (Hlavná Stanica) or Nivy Bus Station. From here, popular day trip destinations include Vienna (1 hour by train), Budapest, and Prague.
How to go from Vienna to Bratislava: take the train from Wien Hauptbahnhof and arrive at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica
How to go from Budapest to Bratislava: take the train from Budapest-Nyugati and change trains in Vác
How to go from Prague to Bratislava: take the train from Prague Central Station (Hlavni Nadrazi)
Bike, Scooter and Car Rental
This one is for those who want to up the ante. If you’ve only got 1 day in Bratislava, speed up your sightseeing on a bike or scooter. Bratislava has plenty of bike paths, and some of the most scenic are along the Danube River.
Bike-sharing platforms like Slovnaft BAjk offer bicycle rentals through the mobile app. While e-scooters can be rented through companies like Bolt, Lime and Tier.
I’d only recommend hiring a car if you plan on doing a day trip from Bratislava. This is because there’s limited parking in the Old Town, and, it can get pretty expensive during the high season.
Where to Stay in Bratislava
Now that you’re up to speed on the best things to do in Bratislava, let’s help you figure out where to stay.
Finding an ideal base for your Bratislava trip has never been easier. So let’s dive into it. The Slovak capital is very affordable, and you’ll be surprised at how much bang you can get for your buck. There’s a huge mix of hostels, boutique hotels, affordable apartments and luxury properties. Here are my top three accommodation options:
Budget €: SKARITZ Hotel & Residence
Mid-Range €€: Marrol’s Boutique Hotel
Luxury €€€: Grand Hotel River Park
FAQs
Is Bratislava worth visiting?
As one of Central Europe’s hidden gems, you’ll be surprised by the beauty of Bratislava. The capital city is often outshined by neighbouring Vienna, Budapest and Prague, but it’s definitely worth adding to your Europe bucket list.
Is 2 days enough for Bratislava?
In just two days in Bratislava, you’ll be able to see the highlights in the Old Town, visit a museum and indulge in traditional Slovak cuisine. Luckily, the city centre is compact and easy to get around, so it’ll allow you to enjoy less time on public transport and more time soaking up the culture.
Is Bratislava cheap or expensive?
If you visit Bratislava, you’ll be quick to realise that it’s one of the most affordable cities in Europe. A meal in a restaurant costs around €9-12 and a beer can be as little as €2. Public transport is also cheap, making getting around easy and efficient.
Which month is best for Bratislava?
The best month to visit Bratislava depends on your preferences and travel budget. In general, mid-May and mid-September are considered the best time to visit Slovakia. During these months, you’ll find cheap accommodation and airfares, along with fewer crowds of tourists.
Things to do in Bratislava, and Beyond!
Whether you want to sample the country’s best beer, picnic along the Danube River or uncover the magic of Michael’s Gate, Slovakia’s capital will have you on the edge of your seat. Before you jet-set off on the trip of a lifetime, be sure to save this guide on the Best Things to do in Bratislava.