Slovakia

Slovakia combines Central European traditions, medieval towns, and dramatic landscapes. From Gothic churches in UNESCO-listed villages to folk architecture in the Carpathians, the country offers a mix of cultural heritage and architectural diversity that reflects its position at the crossroads of empires.

Slovakia has six UNESCO World Heritage cultural sites:

• Bardejov Town Conservation Reserve
• Frontiers of the Roman Empire – The Danube Limes (Western Segment)
• Historic Town of Banská Štiavnica and the Technical Monuments in its Vicinity
• Levoča, Spišský Hrad and the Associated Cultural Monuments
• Vlkolínec
• Wooden Churches of the Slovak part of the Carpathian Mountain Area

U.S. passport holders do not need a visa for tourist or business stays of up to 90 days within a six-month period, starting from the date of first entry. All foreign visitors must register with the local police within 24 hours of arrival.

We spent a month in Bratislava during our second year of full-time travel and plan to visit Košice in the future. This guide shares what we learned along the way, including practical tips and personal recommendations.

Slovakia is considered a developed country with a high-income economy. It has made significant progress since gaining independence in 1993 and is now one of the fastest-growing economies in the European Union.

Slovakia is famous for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the High Tatras mountains and the Danube River. It is also known for its rich history and cultural heritage, with many castles, medieval towns, and UNESCO World Heritage sites to explore. Slovakia is renowned for its traditional folk music and dance, as well as its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes such as bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese) and kapustnica (sauerkraut soup).

In July 1992, Slovakia declared its sovereignty and started negotiating with the Czech Republic to dissolve the country of Czechoslovakia. After receiving parliamentary approval, on January 1, 1993, Slovakia and the Czech Republic became two distinct and self-governing countries.

Slovakia can be a great place to live for many people. It has a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a relatively low cost of living compared to other European countries. The country offers excellent healthcare, a high-quality education system, and a strong sense of community. Additionally, Slovakia has a growing economy and opportunities for employment in various industries. However, it is important to consider personal preferences and individual circumstances when determining if Slovakia is the right place for you to live. Factors such as climate, culture, language barriers, and personal connections should also be considered when making this decision.

Slovakia is generally considered a safe country to visit. It has a low crime rate and the locals are known for their warm hospitality towards tourists. The country’s well-developed infrastructure and efficient public transportation system make it easy to explore its beautiful landscapes and cultural sites. However, as with any travel destination, it is always advisable to take standard safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping an eye on your belongings, and following local laws and regulations. It is also recommended to check the latest travel advisories before your trip to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience in Slovakia.

Slovak is the official language of the Slovak Republic.

No, speaking the local language is not necessary to visit Slovakia. A very large percentage of locals speak English.

The currency of Slovakia is the Euro.

Citizens from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia don’t need a visa to visit Slovakia if they stay 90 days or less. For more information on visa-free travel in Slovakia, check out our article on traveling visa-free.

Slovakia’s electrical outlets are Type C and E. Travelers from the United States will need an adapter. It is the same adapter used for the rest of Europe.

If you have many items to plug in, we recommend a travel power strip with multiple USBs and standard plug-ins. Using a power strip, you will only need one adapter to plug the strip into the wall.

Yes, renting a car and driving in Slovakia is extremely safe. The roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate.