Slovakia
Located in the Heart of Central Europe …
Slovakia has six cultural sites included on the UNESCO World Heritage List:
- 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
A visa is not required for U.S. passport holders for temporary tourist and business trips for up to 90 days (during a six-month period, starting from the day of the first entry). All foreign citizens 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 Kosice in the future.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Bratislava
Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is located on the Danube River near the border with Austria and Hungary. The 18th-century Old Town is a pedestrian-only area known for its lively bars and cafes. The reconstructed Bratislava Castle is perched on a hill overlooking the Old Town.
The city is surrounded by vineyards and the Little Carpathian Mountains, crisscrossed with forested hiking and cycling trails.
Future Destinations
We enjoyed our first trip to Slovakia and look forward to returning in the future
Košice
TBD
Slovakia Food
Slovakia is known for its delicious and hearty cuisine. Traditional Slovak dishes are often made with simple, local ingredients highlighting the country’s agricultural heritage.
Local Food Products
Slovakia currently has six products that have been granted the “registered” status. Those are:
- Skalický trdelník (PGI)
- Slovenská parenica (PGI)
- Slovenská bryndza (PGI)
- Slovenský oštiepok (PGI)
- Ovčí salašnícky údený syr (TSG)
- Ovčí hrudkový syr – salašnícky (TSG)
Additionally, there are eight products that have been given the “published” status. The “published” status indicates that the country has applied for one of the three labels, but the application is still open to appeals from other countries. Those products are:
- Tekovský salámový syr (PGI)
- Zázrivský korbáčik (PGI)
- Oravský korbáčik (PGI)
- Liptovská saláma / Liptovský salám (TSG)
- Lovecký salám / Lovecká saláma (TSG)
- Spišské párky (TSG)
- Špekáčky / Špekačky (TSG)
- Bratislavský rožok / Pressburger Kipfel / Pozsonyi kifli (TSG)
Traditional Dishes
Appetizers
- Pirohy
- Lokše
- Demikát
Main Courses
- Guláš
- Bryndzové halušky
- Kapustnica
Side Dishes
- Zemiakové placky
- Strapačky
Deserts
- Bratislavský rožok
- Bábovka
- Laskonky
- Medvedie labky
Check out our Slovakia Food page for more information about these foods.
Slovakia Wine
Slovakia has six wine-growing regions, mostly located in the southern part of the country. Slovak wines, excluding Tokaj, are not widely recognized internationally but are popular domestically and in neighboring countries.
Wine Regions
The majority of Slovakia’s wine-growing regions are located in the warmer southwest and along its southern border, planted with cool-climate grape varieties. The wine-producing regions in Slovakia are:
- Little Carpathians Wine Region (Malokarpatská vinohradnícka oblasť)
- South Slovak Wine Region (Južnoslovenská vinohradnícka oblasť)
- Nitra Wine Region (Nitrianska vinohradnícka oblasť)
- Central Slovak Wine Region (Stredoslovenská vinohradnícka oblasť)
- East Slovak Wine Region (Východoslovenská vinohradnícka oblasť)
- Tokaj Wine Region (Vinohradnícka oblasť Tokaj)
Grape Varieties
Red Wine
- Dunaj
- Devin
White Wine
- Alibernet
- André
Check out our Slovakia Wine page for more information about these wines.
Slovakia Architecture
The architecture of Slovakia is a unique combination of different styles, reflecting the rich history and culture of the country.
Romanesque and Gothic
Amongst the many architectural styles found in Slovakia, Romanesque and Gothic architecture hold a special place.
Romanesque architecture, characterized by its solid structures and rounded arches, can be seen in various buildings across Slovakia. One notable example is the Church of St. Margaret in Bratislava, with its sturdy stone walls and intricate detailing.
As time progressed, Gothic architecture became prominent in Slovakia. The St. Martin’s Cathedral in Bratislava is a magnificent example of this style, with its towering spires and intricate stained glass windows.
Renaissance and Baroque
During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, Slovakia saw a flourishing of architectural styles influenced by neighboring countries. These styles brought about a blend of elegance and grandeur in many buildings.
The Grassalkovich Palace in Bratislava showcases the beauty of Baroque architecture with its ornate facade and well-manicured gardens.
Art Nouveau
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Art Nouveau made its mark on Slovakia’s architecture. This style celebrated nature and incorporated flowing lines and floral motifs into buildings. One iconic example is the Blue Church in Bratislava, with its vibrant blue facade and delicate decorations inspired by plants and flowers.
FAQs About Slovakia
Is Slovakia a rich or Poor country?
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.
What is Slovakia famous for?
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).
What country did Slovakia used to be?
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.
Is Slovakia a good place to live?
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.
Is Slovakia safe to visit?
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.
What Language is Spoken in Slovakia?
Slovak is the official language of the Slovak Republic.
Do I Need to Speak Slovak to Visit Slovakia?
No, speaking the local language is not necessary to visit Slovakia. A very large percentage of locals speak English.
What Currency is Used in Slovakia?
The currency of Slovakia is the Euro.
Do I Need a Visa for Slovakia?
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.
Do I Need an Electrical Adapter for Visiting Slovakia?
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.
Is It Safe to Rent a Car and Drive in Slovakia?
Yes, renting a car and driving in Slovakia is extremely safe. The roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate.