Castles on crags, wooden churches and the sharp peaks of the High Tatras.
Slovakia is small, mountainous and dotted with castles and ruins on rocky outcrops. Bratislava's compact old town sits below its hilltop castle on the Danube, while Spiš Castle is one of the largest castle complexes in central Europe. The High Tatras rise dramatically in the north, and Slovak Paradise National Park is known for gorges climbed by ladders.
The feel is low-key and good value, with bryndzové halušky (dumplings with sheep's cheese), mountain chalets and small wine villages near Bratislava. Trains and buses are reliable. May to September suits hiking; July and August are busiest in the mountains, and winter brings skiing in the Tatras.
Best time to visit Slovakia
May, June, July, August, September.
Places to visit in Slovakia
Bratislava: Slovakia's small, walkable capital on the Danube, with a hilltop castle and a lively old town.
High Tatras: The highest range of the Carpathians, with granite peaks, glacial lakes and excellent hiking.
Banská Štiavnica: A historic mining town spread across the slopes of an ancient volcano, with castles and artificial lakes.
Essentials
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Language: Slovak; English common among younger people
Plugs: Type C / E, 230 V
Driving: Right side
Time zone: UTC+1
Tipping: Round up; around 10% in restaurants
Getting around: Trains and buses are reliable; an electric railway serves the High Tatras resorts
Entry: Check the official rules for your passport before booking