Bratislava is one of the most underrated cities in Europe. Being close to popular destinations like Vienna and Budapest, it is often overlooked by international tourists. Situated on the banks of the mighty Danube, the city is known for its rich history and culture. It is also the only national capital that borders two sovereign states. From Baroque architecture to a vibrant nightlife, the city has something on offer for everyone. In this post, we give you a lowdown on top things to do in Bratislava.
You can visit Bratislava from Vienna as a day trip as well. There are bus/trains/cruises on a daily basis.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN BRATISLAVA
WANDER THROUGH THE OLD TOWN
Designed in Baroque style, the old town is one of the major attractions of the city. Most of the attractions are dotted in the old town. The old town of Bratislava is home to historical sights, churches, museums, cafes, and restaurants. There is a multitude of things to see in the old town. You can also stumble upon bunkers converted into quirky cafes.
Must-See Attractions: Bratislava’s Main Square, Old Town Hall, Grassalkovich Palace, Primate’s Palace, Michael’s Gate, Quirky Statues
VISIT BRATISLAVA CASTLE
Bratislava Castle is a dominant feature of the old town of Bratislava. Located beside the Danube, the construction of the castle began in the 9th century and the existing structure wasn’t completed until the 19th century. Not only it offers a wonderful view of the city but it is one of the most popular attractions in Bratislava. On a clear day, it also offers views of Austria and Hungary. It only takes around 15 minutes to walk up the hill to the castle and once you’re there we suggest taking a stroll through the Baroque gardens.
DON’ T MISS THE BLUE CHURCH
One of the most popular places to visit in Bratislava is an interesting unique blue church. Built-in the year 1913, in Hungarian style this church is also known as the Little Blue Church because of the color of its façade, mosaics, majolicas, and blue-glazed roof. The church is located in the eastern part of the Old Town and can be easily reached on foot from the Old Town. The church is quite popular among locals for weddings.
ENJOY THE SUNSET & HAVE A DRINK OR TWO AT THE TOP OF THE UFO TOWER
A flying saucer-shaped restaurant offers breathtaking 360 degrees of the city. A restaurant, an observation deck and a panorama walkway called Skywalk is located on top of the tower. We highly recommend to visit the place during sunset, try their cosmic drink, and take in the amazing view. Book in advance if you are planning a fancy dinner at the restaurant.
( Price for the Skywalk: 39 Euro )
ENJOY A TRADITIONAL SLOVAK MEAL AT SLOVAK PUB
Slovak Pub is not just popular among tourists but with locals alike. Do try out some of the Slovakian delicacies at the pub and wash it all down with local’s favorite drink — Kofola, an alternative to Coke/ Pepsi for lunch.
ENJOY A MEAL AT 360 DEGREE REVOLVING RESTAURANT
Altitude restaurant located in the Kamzik TV tower is the tallest place in Bratislava. The rotating tables of the restaurant provide a 360 degrees view of Bratislava.
SLAVÍN
Dedicated to the soldiers who died during World War II. Slavin is the largest war memorial in Central Europe.
HALF DAY TRIP TO DEVIN CASTLE
Located 12 kms from the city center, Devin castle is a great place to visit for history buffs. The castle was blown up by Napoleon’s army. The castle offers beautiful panoramic views and has been declared as the natural cultural monument of Slovakia. It is hard to imagine but not so long ago, during the cold war, the area surrounding the castle used to be a militarized zone.
OTHER IMPORTANT INFO
- VISA – Schengen Visa
- CURRENCY – Euro
FOR STUNNING VIEWS
- UFO Tower – Best to visit during Sunset or Night.
- Michael’s Gate ( 5 Euro per person ) for views of the Old Town
- Bratislava castle
- Rooftop by Regal
- Kamzik TV Tower – There is a 360-degree revolving restaurant
HOW TO REACH BRATISLAVA
- Train – You can reach Bratislava by train from Vienna or Budapest. It takes about an hour from Vienna Central Station to Petrazalka station.
- Cruise – Twin City Liner operates a ferry service from Vienna to Bratislava and it takes 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach.
- Bus – There are frequent buses from Germany, Austria, and Hungary to Bratislava.
- Flight – The closest airport is the Bratislava airport and there are flights to all major European cities.
Travel Tips:
- Avoid Taxis from the station as they charge close to 20 Euros to take you to the city center.
- UBER is a perfect and cheaper way to reach the city center or old town from the railway station.
- You can also use public transportation like trams and buses to get around the city.
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NOTE
If you do find our article useful in planning your trip, don’t forget to send a note/picture of your trip to us ( Email: thetalesofatraveler@gmail.com) for our Testimonial section.
I wish I had read this post before we took a day trip from Vienna to Bratislava totally unprepared. Our trip was a nightmare but I hope to revisit again once we are able to travel and enjoy the places you have written about.
We had one day in Bratislava and we loved it. We were sorry we did not get to visit the Bratislava Castle. Or get a panoramic view from the UFO tower. A drink at night looks like something we must do when we return. Love the idea of using Bratislava as a base to explore other areas as day trips. We even thought we might base in Bratislava to visit Vienna next time.
I have never been to Bratislava before. I would love to visit it sometime. I like walking around the towns generally, so exploring and walking around the old town is definitely me. And that blue church looks so pretty.
Wandering through the old parts of cities is always a highlight for me. I also love eating local food and visiting churches. They all seem essential to get the feel of a country. I hope to get to Slovakia someday! 🙂
I love to visit places to get a stunning view of the city from, thanks for mentioning list of those places in Bratislava. I will surely be visiting a local pub to enjoy the Slovakian food along with Kofola. Half-day trip to Edvin Castle surely going down my list. Plus, thanks to your blog, I am not going to miss the Blue Church at all when I am in Bratislava.
The old town looks beautiful.Having drinks on top of the UFO tower sounds like an amazing night out. I love the idea of having a glass of wine while seeing the panoramic view of the city. Thanks for this virtual tour. Hope to visit Bratislava soon
This is such a useful post. I have Bratislava on my mind and you are right about it been overlooked by tourists. Thanks for the tip on using Uber rather than a taxi, these little tips definitely makes a difference.
I agree many countries in eastern Europe are under rated and I loved eastern Europe for amazing city and beautiful nature. Wandering through old town of Bratislava would be my choice as I love that in any European city. Blue church looks really photogenic and same kind of church I spotted in Ukraine. I always see colorful churches in Eastern Europe and that is why these countries look very unique.