bratislava day trip

One Day in Bratislava Itinerary – Top things to do in Bratislava, Slovakia

Those who plan a trip to Bratislava always end up overwhelmed by the fact that this hidden European gem is one of the most charming central European cities. It’s perfectly sized for weekend visitors but also for those who only want to make a day trip to Bratislava. One thing is for sure – even if you spend just one day here, you will be able to see plenty of historical sights and enjoy delicious bites and cheap booze. After all is said and done, you’ll be wondering why it took you so long to visit this place.

Plan your trip to Bratislava

1. What’s the best time to visit Bratislava? 2. A few facts about Bratislava 3. One Day in Bratislava Itinerary 3.1. Check out the Slovak Radio building 3.2. Visit the Freedom Square 3.3. Shop for local products at Old Market Hall 3.4. Check out another Soviet-era square 3.5. Stroll the Old Town 3.6. Seek out the quirky statues 3.7. Enjoy a lunch with the city view 3.8. Get the most spectacular panoramic view of the city 3.9. Watch the sunset from the Bratislava Castle 3.10. Taste the traditional Slovak cuisine 3.11. Bratislava nightlife 4. Where to stay in Bratislava? 5. Day trips from Bratislava 6. Extra tips for visiting Bratislava

What’s the best time to visit Bratislava?

You can visit Bratislava throughout the entire year, but depending on your interests and expectations, some months can be more suitable for your Bratislava trip than others. The city enjoys a continental climate, which means summer can be fairly hot. Since this is also the city’s peak season, be prepared for tourist crowds. If you want to enjoy sunny and mild weather with fewer crowds, pick May or September instead. The whole country is heavily forested, so you can enjoy the blossom season in April and the fall foliage season in October.

Now, you’re probably wondering is Bratislava worth a visit in winter ? Well, for those who enjoy (or at least aren’t bothered by) chilly temperatures and snow, winter has its special charm. Bratislava hosts a Christmas market that’s way cozier than the one in Vienna. You can buy traditional wooden souvenirs, try some local specialties like Ciganska Pecienka (pork cutlet or chicken breast in a bun) or Lokse (potato pancakes) and let the mulled wine and punch warm your entire body.

Other notable festivals include Bratislava Music Festival in autumn, Bratislava City Days in spring, and Junifest National Beer Festival in summer. Each has plenty to offer to every visitor and will provide you with a special glimpse into the life and nature of the city.

A few facts about Bratislava

Even though Bratislava has been Slovakia’s capital since the country’s independence in 1993, it’s still one of the smallest European capitals. Set very close to the Austrian border, Bratislava is usually visited as a part of a day trip from Vienna , since it only takes about 1 hour by train from Vienna to Bratislava.

The picturesque Bratislava Old Town banks the Danube river, and it’s safe to say that this is one of the best-preserved medieval old towns in Europe. Besides the colorful medieval houses, impressive churches, bell towers, and beautiful baroque palaces, the most enchanting building is definitely Bratislava Castle .

Apart from its historical architecture, Bratislava‘s communist-era heritage is something just as exciting to explore. The socialist architecture of the 60s and 70s features some of the finest examples of modern architecture. Their often brutal form has become somewhat of the city’s trademark. The UFO tower, Slovak Radio building, Freedom Square, and Hotel Kyjev are considered the finest, or at least the most impressive examples of that era, so don’t miss them, even if you’re only spending one day in Bratislava.

One Day in Bratislava Itinerary

You are in Bratislava, an exceptionally charming and welcoming central-European city, so be prepared to explore! There are so many things to see and do during your one day here that you’ll definitely need a good itinerary. Luckily, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s how best to use the time you have in the city, soak everything up and enjoy. Read on!

Tour tip : If you don’t feel like walking, be sure to take Bratislava tour by Sightseeing Bus .

Check out the Slovak Radio building

As already mentioned, exploring Slovak brutalist architecture is one of the most exciting things to do in Bratislava, so why not start with this right away? The Slovak Radio building may be the most brutal example of the communist-era heritage. You’ll recognize it right away since it’s shaped like a giant upside-down pyramid.

The immense steel structure just keeps you wondering – how does this building manage to even stand on the ground? It took a huge effort and 27 years to construct it, but the building is strangely appealing and quite unique. Since you cannot go inside, you can just observe up close and snap a few photos.

Visit the Freedom Square

Located just a block away from the Slovak Radio building, the Namestie slobody park, also known as the Freedom Square, is hard to miss. It’s another place that evokes memories since the square has played an important role in Slovak history.

The park is surrounded by the 1950s concrete architecture and has a giant flower steel fountain at the very center. The statue actually represents a linden flower which is considered a sacred tree in Slavic mythology. Even though the whole area is kind of neglected and the main fountain is out of order at the moment, it’s an interesting sight to see and a major step back in time.

Shop for local products at Old Market Hall

Old Market Hall is a beautiful Art Nouveau hall that houses a farmers’ market on Saturdays , so in case you’re spending a weekend in Bratislava this is a must. It’s a perfect spot to chill out, grab something to eat, or just soak up the local culture.

You can buy a wide range of local products, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, meat products, bakery goods, and other types of food. The farmers’ market is also accompanied by a flea market in the gallery, so don’t miss out on checking that out as well.

The Market Hall is also a great place to enjoy your morning coffee since it houses a few charming cafes and a beautiful tea house Oasis , which is literally covered in greenery.  

Check out another Soviet-era square

Before heading to Bratislava Old Town, there’s one more exciting socialist square worth a quick stroll. Kamenne namestie or the Kamenne Square , just opposite the Old Market Hall, is one of the busiest city squares in Bratislava with the towering Hotel Kyjev building that sadly doesn’t operate anymore. However, this elegant modernist structure was recently turned into a huge street artwork with the Op art motive . It will remain there until the building’s reconstruction, so make sure to check it out while it’s still there.

Stroll the Old Town

Medieval architecture lovers, now it’s your turn. You’re about to visit the Old Town of Bratislava , one of the most charming central European old towns. In one hour, you can leisurely stroll the cobblestone streets, check out some great squares and enter a few interesting churches along the way. There’s no right or wrong route to take, but make sure you don’t miss Michalska, Venturska, and Panska streets and the city’s main square.

Don’t skip St. Martin’s Cathedral, either. This Gothic cathedral is the oldest and the largest church in Bratislava and was actually a coronation place for Hungarian kings from the 16th to the 19th century.

St. Michael’s Gate , one of the most popular attractions in Bratislava, is something you simply cannot miss since it’s the only preserved city gate of a once fortified town. Today, it houses a small Museum of Arms, and you can climb up the tower for some panoramic views of the Old Town.

Seek out the quirky statues

Make your Bratislava Old Town stroll even more exciting. The city is famous for the quirky statues along its streets and squares, so why not play a game with your travel buddies  – whoever finds more of them, wins. The popular ones are Čumil, the worker peeping out of a manhole, Schöne Náci and Napoleon’s Army Soldier.

Enjoy a lunch with a spectacular view

Finally, finish your Old Town tour at the Hviezdoslavovo Square , a longitudinal square lined with numerous bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or wine or enjoy a traditional Slovak lunch. And while there are many great cheap eats along that venue, nothing beats the spectacular city view of the Sky Bar & Restaurant . You won’t find much Slovak cuisine there (it’s all pretty much Thai food), but everything is nevertheless pretty delicious.

In case you only want to enjoy a few drinks and a spectacular castle view, you should know they have a pretty impressive cocktail selection. If you want to skip alcohol for lunch, their non-alcoholic cocktail list is also worth a try. 

Get the most spectacular panoramic view of the city

In case Sky Bar wasn’t high enough for you, visit the UFO Observation deck which is 95 meters high. The UFO tower floats above the iconic Most SNP hanging bridge, but you‘ve probably seen it by now since it’s quite impressive in size and resembles a flying saucer. To reach it, take the pedestrian lane on the bridge and once you reach the structure, get to the top by taking the elevator inside one of the pillars.

You can either enjoy the spectacular panoramic view from the observation deck or you can have some drinks and food at the UFO watch.taste.groove restaurant . This fine dining restaurant, with extraordinary service and creative gastro experience, is set below the observation deck level and due to the limited seating mostly requires a reservation in advance.

Watch the sunset from the Bratislava Castle

The crowning Bratislava Castle is surely the city’s most famous landmark and something everyone should visit on their trip to Bratislava. While you can certainly explore it during the day, the castle courtyard comes to life right before sunset.

The hike to the top is quite steep, but it doesn’t take long to get there. And once you’re there, you’ll be faced with another amazing view of the city and the Danube . The castle dates back to the 13th century but was rebuilt over the centuries in different styles and recently fully renovated. Skip the Castle Museum and visit the inner courtyard and the beautiful formal garden at no cost.

Taste the traditional Slovak cuisine

You cannot leave Bratislava without having a proper traditional Slovak dinner. Restaurants at the very center of the Old Town can be a little overpriced, but keep in mind that Bratislava is a budget-friendly destination. But just a few steps away from the main crowd and you’ll find some famous Slovak restaurants that serve delicious food at reasonable prices.

Bratislava Flagship Restaurant is a traditionally decorated beer hall set in a monastery building that used to be a cinema before it was converted into a restaurant. Another great restaurant in the same area with a warm setting and traditional decor is the 1. Slovak Pub . Both restaurants offer must-try national dishes such as dumplings with sheep cheese, the famous garlic soup in bread, goulash soup, spare ribs with pickles and horseradish, and roast pork with dumplings and cabbage.

Bratislava nightlife

If you’re still into clubbing after all this food, we have some great news for you – Bratislava offers great nightlife spots for all tastes. Nu Spirit is a centrally located club on two floors where you can enjoy house and techno clubbing on the lower level or some live music venues on the upper floor. For even more choices, check out the YMCA building, the cultural hub with a concert hall, two clubs, three bars, and an outside terrace. It’s the locals‘ favorite spot and the best place to end your one day in Bratislava.

Where to stay in Bratislava?

Marrol’s Boutique Hotel

Tobrucka 4, 811 02 Bratislava

Marrol’s Boutique Hotel is a perfect place for those who want to live it up on their one day in Bratislava. Since the city is budget-friendly, booking a five-star place is much easier. This hotel has a spectacular spa and an excellent restaurant, plus it’s close to the old town. The building itself is quite beautiful and the interior lavish. Simply put, you can’t go wrong with this hotel!

BOOK A ROOM HERE

LOFT Premium & Wilson Palace

Štefánikova 4, 811 05 Bratislava

LOFT Premium & Wilson Palace is a beautiful hotel located in the very city center and includes suites in the historical building known as Wilson Palace. It features spacious and well-equipped rooms with minibars, coffee machines, bathrobes, slippers, etc. You can get a great breakfast here to start your day off, and the front desk is open 24 hours a day. They will even arrange a massage for you for an extra charge!

Elisabeth Old Town

2 Klemensova, 811 09 Bratislava

Elisabeth Old Town is a stay where you will get clean and comfortable rooms and good food, all accompanied by excellent service and friendly staff. But the most important advantage of this hotel is its location. Not only is it close to the city center, but it is also less than a mile (about 1.3 kilometers) away from Bratislava Castle and UFO Observation Deck.

Hostel Folks

Obchodna 2, 811 06 Bratislava

Hostel Folks is a great hostel in the heart of Bratislava that will provide you with a comfortable stay and much more. Apart from the location, it has a shared kitchen and a deposit box. In addition, everything is absolutely spotless and the people running the hostel are wonderful. So, backpackers – what are you waiting for? This is the place to book for your one day in Bratislava!

Day trips from Bratislava

Looking for some great day trips from Bratislava? Don’t worry, there are many great destinations to choose from. The location of the city is perfect if you’re spending more than a day here. Here are a few suggestions you definitely won’t regret visiting.

Bojnice Castle

Just like this whole part of Europe, Slovakia is also full of magnificent castles. The best among them has to be Bojnice Castle, a castle that can go toe to toe with just about any other castle in Europe. It really is quite a sight to behold, and the 700-year-old tree growing in front of the gates just adds to that magical feeling. In fact, this is where king Matej Corvinus would throw huge feasts. Under the castle is a beautiful cave you can explore too, so you are bound to have a wonderful day here.

Banska Štiavnica

Banska Štiavnica may be a relatively small town, but its significance is absolutely huge. The whole town is under UNESCO’s protection, which can immediately tell you a lot. Furthermore, this is where the world’s first technology-focused university was founded. Apart from that, there is plenty of beautiful architecture to explore, including a couple of castles. The town simply exudes a vibe from some earlier times, which makes it very romantic. Of course, the numerous bars and restaurants provide plenty of options for food and drinks. Just don’t forget to try some of the local beer – it’s fantastic!

Devin Castle

Although in ruins today, after Napoleon’s army destroyed it in an attack, Devin Castle boasts a rich history and a spectacular view thanks to its location on top of a hill. In fact, the view is so good that you can see Austria from here! Below you, the mighty Danube and Morava rivers converge onto each other for even more incredible sights. To top everything off, you can try some local wine and other products here and pick up a souvenir. In any case, this is a very special day trip from Bratislava you will surely enjoy.

If you would like to visit more of Slovakia, why not make a day trip to Trnava? This gorgeous town is just half an hour away from Bratislava and offers everything you need to have a fantastic time. There is plenty of impressive architecture to see, but you can just chill and do some people-watching, too. With some really awesome cafes and restaurants, coming here can be a very pleasant day indeed. Not to mention that you’ll get to know Slovakia just a little bit better.

Extra tips for visiting Bratislava

In case you’re traveling to Bratislava by train, your final stop will be Bratislava hlavná stanica or the main train station. From there, you can take the Trolley Bus 93 that goes all the way to the city center. You can get off either at the Hodzovo station or Zochova.

Tipping in bars and restaurants is not mandatory, but tipping around 10% in restaurants or rounding up the bill in the bars is appreciated.

Bratislava Card is a nice thing to have, especially if you’re planning on using public transport. With this card, you can ride for free, and there are some other discounts, too!

Bratislava’s tap water is perfectly drinkable, so make sure you have your water bottle with you.

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If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Bratislava Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

One comment

Thanks for all your suggestions. I think I have visited them all. They have made my one day trip from Vienna very enjoyable. I had soup at Bratislava Flagship Restaurant for lunch and have returned for Viennese schnitzel for dinner. I also enjoyed a dessert creation and coffee at Bistro Gazda near St Michael’s Gate. A very good day. I have walked 15.4km so far and will cover a few more as I head back to the train station after dinner.

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Turn your dream vacation into reality

One Day in Bratislava (Walking Itinerary + Map)

• January 26, 2024

A complete itinerary for one day in Bratislava (+ a map with all key sights, where to eat and how to get there from Vienna).

Bratislava is the capital city of Slovakia. Although it’s the biggest city in the country, Bratislava is one of the smallest European capitals. Located on the banks of the Danube River, the city is a unique mixture of Soviet architecture and old elegant buildings.

The Old Town is small but full of charming winding alleyways, historic buildings and cafés. Not to forget the quirky sculptures, the 9th-century castle and the UFO tower rising above the town.

Bratislava is the perfect city for a leisurely stroll with a bit of history. If you’re not a museum person, tour Old Town and then enjoy a cup of coffee or wine in any of the numerous cafés and bars.

Bratislava is one of the most popular day trips from Vienna. Planning to spend a few days in the capital of Austria, too? Then take a look at my guide for 3 days in Vienna .

One day in Bratislava itinerary

This one day in Bratislava itinerary is ideal not only for those visiting the city on a day trip but also for those staying overnight. It covers all the must-see sights, including eating recommendations.

Find a map of this Bratislava itinerary (with all attractions and restaurants’ websites) at the end of the blog post.

One day in Bratislava (best day trip itinerary)

• Start the day with breakfast at Pán Cakes
• Pass through St. Michael’s Gate
• Visit St. Martin’s Cathedral

Tour Bratislava Castle

See the famous bratislava statues.

• Tour the hidden Primate’s Palace

Admire the Blue Church

Panoramic views from ufo observation deck, try the best pancakes in bratislava.

08:30 AM – 09:30 AM Start this Bratislava itinerary with breakfast at Pán Cakes or Foxford .

Foxford is a hipster coffee shop, housed in a bookstore. They offer great coffee and delicious cakes and sandwiches.

For some tasty crepes and hot chocolate, go to Pán Cakes.

Pass through St. Michael’s Gate

09:30 AM – 09:45 AM During medieval times, the city was heavily fortified. St. Michael’s Gate (Michalská brána) is the only preserved gate from these fortifications. It was possible to enter the city only through here or the other three gates that existed during that time.

Today, St. Michael’s Gate houses a museum with an exhibition of weapons. Also, you can walk up to the top of the tower for some panoramic views of the Old Town.

Right under the gate, there is a golden circle. The latter is known as Kilometer Zero and it marks the distances from Bratislava to 29 other capitals.

Visit St. Martin’s Cathedral

10:00 AM – 10:30 AM St Martin’s Cathedral (Katedrála svätého Martina) is the oldest and largest church in the city. Before its construction in the 13th century, the worship services were held at Bratislava Castle. St Martin’s Cathedral is also the place where the kings of Hungary were crowned between 1563 and 1830.

10:45 AM – 12:30 PM The castle (Bratislavský hrad) is one of the must-see landmarks. Built in the 9th century, this massive rectangular building dominates the city’s skylines. During the centuries the castle was rebuilt several times in different styles.

Nowadays, the castle houses the National Museum of History . However, the grounds and the gardens are free to roam. So, make sure to check the castle up close and to enjoy some panoramic views of the city and Danube.

12:30 PM – 02:30 PM Stop for lunch at Modrá Hviezda or Urban Bistro . For traditional Slovak food go to Modrá Hviezda. If you look for more modern vibes, Urban Bistro is the better option.

02:30 PM – 03:00 PM As you walk through the Old Town, you’ll notice a lot of human-size bronze sculptures. These statues add some liveliness to communist-era architecture. The most popular ones are Čumil, Schöne Náci and Napoleon’s Army Soldier.

You’ll find Čumil peeping out of the manhole. His name literally means “the watcher”. In fact, this is the most iconic statue of the capital of Slovakia.

Schöne Náci Statue doesn’t have anything in common with the Nazis as you may think initially. At least, I did.

The statue represents a man that holds his hat and greets people. Schöne Náci Statue is based on a real person who lived here in the 20 century. He used to wander on the city streets, all dressed-up and to greet the women with the words, “I kiss your hand” in German, Hungarian and Slovak.

Napoleon’s Army Soldier Statue is right on the main square in the Old Town. The statue represents a soldier from Napoleon’s Army, who fell in love with a local girl. Instead of continuing with his military service, he stayed in Bratislava and became a producer of sparkling wine.

Tour the hidden Primate’s Palace

03:00 PM – 04:00 PM Primate’s Palace (Primaciálny palác) was built for Archbishop József Batthyány in the 18th century. In 1805 Napoleon signed the fourth Peace of Pressburg here at the Hall of Mirrors. This treaty put an end to the Holy Roman Empire.

Today, the palace is the seat of the Mayor of Bratislava. However, it’s open for visitors and you can tour the splendid rooms on the first floor.

04:15 PM – 04:45 PM The Blue Church (Modrý kostolík) is the most unique church in the city. With its eye-catching architecture in Art Nouveau style, it’s easily spotted among the boring buildings that surround it.

On your way to UFO Observation Deck, stop for some mouth-watering doughnuts at La Donuteria .

05:15 PM – 18:15 PM For truly stunning panoramic views of the city and the castle, go to UFO Observation Deck . It’s called this way because it resembles a flying saucer.

There is a viewing area, reachable by an elevator. Besides, a restaurant is available on site. The best time to get here is at sunset.

Finish this lovely one day in Bratislava with a dinner at Koliba Kamzík or Roxor . For traditional Slovak cuisine visit Koliba Kamzík. If you’re a burger lover, Roxor is the place (the best burgers in the town).

More ideas for your 1 day in Bratislava

Learn more about the city’s communist past.

Explore Bratislava on board a retro Škoda vehicle. Discover landmarks off the beaten path such as Slavín Soviet Monument, the former Iron Curtain border zone and abandoned factories.

Take a wine-tasting tour

Take a day trip to Modra to try some of Slovakia’s finest wines . Modra is an old royal city that is known for centuries for its wine production and quality ceramics.

Grassalkovich Palace

The Hungarian aristocrat Antal Grassalkovich commissioned the construction of the palace in 1760. As Grassalkovich was a close friend to Empress Maria Theresa, this palace regularly housed balls of the Habsburg royal court.

Nowadays, Grassalkovich Palace (Grasalkovičov palác) is the official residence of the President of Slovakia.

1 day in Bratislava in winter

If you’re visiting Bratislava in winter you can follow completely this itinerary, just don’t miss the Christmas markets.

There are two main markets at Hviezdoslav square and Hlavné námestie. Besides, there is a petting zoo in the courtyard of the castle (with cute sheep and goats).

If you plan a few days in Vienna, as well, take a look at my guide to the fairytale Christmas markets in Vienna .

Getting around in Bratislava

Find a detailed map of the itinerary here .

The main tourist area, the Old Town, is pretty small and walkable. Yet, as the castle is located on a hill, prepare for a little hiking.

You can also take the Bratislava sightseeing bus , which shows the most popular landmarks. Plus, you have a walking tour included in your ticket.

If you’re coming on a train from Vienna, the Central train station (Hlavná stanica) is about 1.5km from the Old Town. In this case, you can take tram 1 from Hlavná stanica to Námestie SNP (or walk if you prefer).

How to get to Bratislava

Bratislava is 1h journey by train from Vienna. You’ll arrive at Bratislava Central train station (Hlavná stanica). Check timetables and book tickets online at ZSSK official site .

Bratislava Airport – Letisko M. R. Štefánika (BTS) is less than 10km away from the city centre. It’s the main International airport in Slovakia. There are two options to get there (besides a taxi).

• bus 61 connects the Central train station (Hlavná železničná stanica) with the airport. The train station itself is about a 20min walk from the Historic Centre (or take tram 1).
• there is also a night bus N61 from the Central train station to the airport

How many days in Bratislava

Is one day in bratislava enough.

One day in Bratislava is completely enough to visit the castle and tour the most popular sites in the Old Town, including the Christmas market. In fact, the capital city of Slovakia is a great option for a day trip from Vienna. You can get there by train, bus or boat.

I have only half a day, what to do?

If you have less than a day, you can still follow this Bratislava itinerary, just skip the Primate’s Palace. It’s beautiful, but if you’re short on time, you’d better leave it for another time. Also, you can skip the UFO Observation Deck (especially if the weather is not good). You can enjoy the views from the castle instead.

Best time to visit Bratislava

For sunny and pleasant weather visit Bratislava from May to September. This is the best time, especially if you want to visit the city on a boat trip from Vienna.

Winters are cold and wet, but you can always warm yourself up with a glass of mulled wine at the Christmas markets. They start the last week of November and continue till Christmas.

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could not fins the walking tour map of Bratislava. Thank you

Hi Charles,

It is right at the beginning of the section – Getting around in Bratislava (the first sentence after this title). Here is a direct link to the map , in case you still can’t find it.

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The Perfect One Day in Bratislava Itinerary

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

I recently spent 1 day in Bratislava and it was one of the best surprises of my summer Europe trip. I hadn’t known what to expect but I thoroughly enjoyed my visit. I’ll share my Bratislava itinerary for 1 day to help you enjoy it, too. There are plenty of things to do in Bratislava from palaces to churches and catacombs, along with opportunities to learn about Slovakian history and culture. If you’re wondering is Bratislava worth visiting? , you might be swayed by the fact that wine is almost cheaper than water! I was stunned by the affordability of Bratislava. While you could easily spend longer enjoying the cafe culture and tucking into hearty Slovakian food, it’s common for travellers to spend a day in Bratislava en route between Vienna and Budapest.

ESSENTIALS FOR A DAY IN BRATISLAVA Tours & activities : GetYourGuide / Viator Accommodation : Booking.com / Hostelworld Getting there: air ( Skyscanner ) / bus ( Flixbus ), train ( RailEurope ) Getting around : foot / bus / tram

In a rush? Pin this one day in Bratislava guide for later.

Where is Bratislava?

Bratislava is the capital city of Slovakia , located on the western border connecting with Austria . Slovakia also shares borders with the Czech Republic, Poland , Ukraine and Hungary . It only takes 1 hour to reach Vienna from Bratislava and it’s not much further to Budapest.

Read my blogs about Vienna , Czechia and Budapest !

Getting to Bratislava

Beginning your Bratislava itinerary is easy. You can fly into Bratislava airport (I use Skyscanner to find the best flight prices) or, if you’re travelling from neighbouring countries, arrive by land. To get from the airport to the city, book a private transfer for €20 or take the number 61 bus (5am-11pm). From Vienna to Bratislava : Book a 1-hour train on the RailEurope website. For a cheaper option, book a bus ticket with FlixBus . The journey takes 1.5 hours and costs as little as €7. If time’s tight, take a Vienna to Bratislava guided day trip . By boat: Since Bratislava sits alongside the Danube, you can arrive by boat. Many people visit as a day trip from Vienna to spend one day in Bratislava. Book your Vienna to Bratislava bus & boat tour . From Hungary: Catch a direct FlixBus from Budapest to Bratislava in 2 hours and 20 minutes. Despite being a longer journey, tickets still start at €7. From Prague: The journey from Prague to Bratislava costs just €11 by FlixBus and takes 4 hours. Book a few days in advance as these direct buses book up. Europe travel tip – use Omio to compare transport options to any destination, comparing price and duration.

Getting around Bratislava in a day

Bratislava is a small capital city so it’s easy to explore most of the attractions on foot. Public transport: If you need them, there are buses, trams and trolleybuses to help you get around Bratislava . Public transport runs from 5am-midnight and schedules are displayed beside the stops (they also show on Google Maps). One ticket allows you to use all three modes of transport including the night bus. To see Bratislava in a day, a 24-hour pass costs just €3.50. Fun ways to get around Bratislava:

• Hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus tour (€10)
• Cycling tour with local guide (€10)
• Segway tour with local guide (€30)
• E-scooter tour with local guide (€30).

Where to stay during 1 day in Bratislava

There are loads of places to rest your weary head after exploring Bratislava in one day. Here are a few suggestions:

Hostel: Schöndorf Hostel is a brilliant option for backpackers. Besides the comfy rooms, they have a restaurant, shared kitchen, contemporary lounge area and terrace. The location is fantastic, and they have a virtual reception for smooth self-check-ins. Check availability from € 37 .

Budget hotel: Hotel Max Inn has everything you need for a comfy base in Bratislava, including an onsite restaurant which serves breakfast beside the fireplace and comfortable modern rooms. The hotel is a 2-minute walk from the nearest direct bus stop to the city centre. Check availability from € 55 .

Mid-range: For a comfy and stylish base, stay at LOFT Hotel Bratislava . It has an industrial-chic vibe with vintage coffee machines and exposed brick walls. Better yet, there’s a craft beer and wine bar inside. Check availability from € 115 .

Splash-out: Check out the deluxe apartments at Roset Hotel & Residence . This historic Art Nouveau property offers 5-star luxury in either a standard room or a giant maisonette suite, including a kitchen and fireplace. Make the most of Bratislava prices; this would be triple the price over the border in Vienna! Check availability from € 155 .

Browse all Bratislava accommodation on Booking.com and Hostelworld .

Best season to visit Bratislava

I visited Bratislava in July when the sun was shining and the city was bustling and busy. Summer is a great time of year to visit Bratislava but prepare for things to be busy and touristy. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) see fewer crowds and lower prices but average temperatures are lower and there’s more chance of rain. Winter is December-February and this is a great time to visit Bratislava for one day because there are Christmas markets and cosy pubs and restaurants to visit.

Things to do during 1 day in Bratislava

• Take a free walking tour
• Admire Grassalkovich Palace
• Visit Bratislava Castle
• Take a Bratislavan food tour

Explore the Old Town

• Climb St Michael’s Gate
• Visit the Blue Church
• Tour Primate’s Palace
• Spot the funky statues
• Go underneath St. Martin’s Cathedral
• Follow the Coronation Trail
• Go up the UFO Bridge
• Go wine tasting with a sommelier
• Eat at Slovak Pub.

Bratislava itinerary

If you have just one day in Bratislava, never fear: it’s enough time to see the best of Slovakia’s capital. Let’s get stuck into my Bratislava itinerary for 1 day…

Bratislava 1 day itinerary – morning

On the busy July day I visited, Bratislava city centre was bustling. I noticed lots of people buying tickets for paid Bratislava walking tours but I opted for a free one instead. I’ve enjoyed these in several countries and continents around the world. The guides are always great.

For this tour in Bratislava, check out Be Free Tours . They have a few different tours (I took the original one) which run at the following times:

• Original free walking tour – 11am and 2pm (November to March), 11am and 3pm (April to October)
• Old Town & castle free walking tour – 11am (November to March), 10am (April to October)
• Communism tour – 2pm Friday, Saturday & Sunday (November to March), 4pm seven days a week (April to October).

Depending which tour you take, it may include some of the following stops. If you’d rather explore solo, make sure to check out these places during your one day in Bratislava:

Changing of the guards at Grassalkovich Palace (12pm)

Provided you’re not on a walking tour, swing by Grassalkovich Palace at midday. This grand palace is Slovakia’s answer to the White House, surrounded by a large park and spacious square filled with water fountains. When the president is in town, there’s a changing of the guard ceremony held daily at 12pm. You can’t go inside the palace but you can view it from the outside and walk around the leafy gardens for free.

Wandering colourful Old Town is essential if you want to fully explore Bratislava in 1 day. The city is colourful with beautiful architecture and green parks. The Old Town Hall is one of the key places to see during your Bratislava itinerary for 1 day, as are the following attractions…

St. Michael’s Gate

The Old Town was once guarded by four main gates but this is the last one standing. Climb to the top of the white and green tower for exceptional views over Bratislava. There’s also a small museum at the bottom. Don’t miss the ‘zero kilometre’ plate at the bottom listing the distance to 29 world capitals.

The Blue Church

This Art Nouveau building is easily Bratislava’s most famous monument. Although it was designed by a Hungarian architect, it has a Gaudí look that may remind you of Barcelona . Not only is the exterior blue, but the mosaics and interior are equally blue. On a sunny day, it almost blends into the sky. The Blue Church can be found on the corner of Bezručova Street on the edge of Bratislava’s Old Town. It’s only open early and late: 6.30-7.30am and 5.30-7pm, apart from Sundays when the morning session is from 7.30am-12pm.

The quirky statues

Around Bratislava, you’ll notice some fun statues including this one of a friendly workman coming up from the drains. Tourists all want to pose with him so you’ll find a line forming in the summer months. A tour guide told me that the grey and drab nature of the city following communist rule was the reason for brightening the place up with these quirky statues.

St. Martin’s Cathedral

Not far from St Michael’s Gate is St. Martin’s Cathedral, one of the most important religious buildings in Slovakia. This is where many Hungarian kings were crowned from the 15th-18th centuries. Visually, St. Martin’s Cathedral isn’t anything to write home about but it’s one of the best things to do during 1 day in Bratislava due to the eerie catacombs beneath it. Walk through the tight underground passageways and feel the chill.

Discover the Coronation Trail

One of the hidden gems of Bratislava is the Coronation Trail. You won’t notice it initially as it requires looking down at the ground. While seeing Bratislava in one day, follow the crown-shaped tiles in a loop from the banks of the Danube to the Old Town and back. For more than 300 years, Hungarian kings were crowned in Bratislava and followed a certain route around the city as part of the coronation process. There are 178 crown-shaped tiles around Bratislava that you can follow while soaking up the sights of the city.

Lunch at Slovak Pub

If you just have one day in Bratislava, make sure to eat lunch or dinner at Slovak Pub . Here you can tuck into tasty Slovakian dishes and try Kofola, the communist version of Coca-Cola, made when the Soviets banned the American beverage. Prices at this cosy pub are so affordable that I ordered two lunches (and finished them) just to try two different things.

Read next: The best restaurants in Bratislava

One of the best dishes to try at Slovak Pub (or anywhere in Bratislava) is bryndzové halušky or, in English, sheep’s cheese gnocchi. This dish is slathered in a rich, cheesy sauce and topped with fried bacon. Heart attack-inducing but worth it. At Slovak Pub, you can also order a sharing platter with a portion of bryndzové halušky and six sheep’s cheese dumplings. The ‘sharing’ part is optional…

Suggested activity: traditional food tour with a local expert

Bratislava in one day – afternoon

Next, let’s spot unusual architecture in the main square, although it’s a funny place. Almost every building has a different architectural style from a total mix of time periods. To get to know the city during 1 day in Bratislava, I’d recommend wandering Main Square and browsing the markets that regularly take place there. Why not grab a drink and soak up some sun?

Explore the Bratislava cafes

Take a break from sightseeing to enjoy Bratislava’s cafe culture. There are so many places to stop for coffee and cake including hipster cafes, cute teahouses and even a whole cafe dedicated to cheesecake! This is a chance to take a break from this busy Bratislava one day itinerary and treat yourself. Urban House is a fashionable and spacious cafe in the heart of town. Pollito Cheesecake is the best place to try lemonade in various fruit flavours and, as the name suggests, delicious cheesecake.

Primate’s Palace

The Primate’s Palace is not only a beautiful building but a place of historical significance. Napoleon signed the Peace of Pressburg treaty here in 1805, ending the Holy Roman Empire. Pay just €3 to enter the pink palace and tour the famous Hall of Mirrors where the treaty was signed. The courtyard is a lovely place to relax with lots of tourists and locals sat outside in the summer months (partly because of the free Wi-Fi!).

Dusk at Bratislava Castle

No Bratislava itinerary would be complete without visiting Bratislava Castle. My top tip is to visit just before it gets dark and spy some of Bratislava’s best views from your lofty position. You’ll see the castle in daylight before catching sunset views over the Danube and finally, admiring the sprawling capital lit up at night. You could even bring a picnic and spend a couple of hours enjoying the views from the castle walls. This castle dating back 500 years is impressive from the outside but apparently, the inside isn’t half as grand. I skipped it myself and didn’t regret it when I read TripAdvisor reviews saying it wasn’t amazing.

Evening drinks at the UFO Bridge

One of the weirdest and most wonderful places to visit during your Bratislava itinerary is the UFO Bridge, called so because of the bizarre structure on top that looks a bit like a spacecraft. Catch the elevator to the bar at the top where you can sit near floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the Danube and city. Drinks are slightly pricey but not too bad given the location. Cocktails start at €9 but the food is more expensive with main dishes at around €40.

Suggested activity: evening walking tour & UFO tour drink

Bratislava itinerary for 1 day – evening drinks

While backpacking, I find it easy to eat cheap but drinking can be another matter. The places I go with good nightlife often drain my bank balance. However, this isn’t a problem you’ll encounter in Bratislava: it’s one of the cheapest world cities for a pint of beer, perfect for a cheap Bratislava one day trip! With pints of beer for under €2 and wine for not much more, it’s easy to have a cheap night in Bratislava. It’s not known for its clubs like Prague or Berlin but there are plenty of places to go out and dance. Trafo Bar is known for RnB music and a young student crowd. For an underground club with techno music and cheap drinks, head to Nu Spirit . For a chilled night with great views and cocktails, end your 1 day in Bratislava by checking out Lemontree & Sky Bar Restaurant . Drinks are a little pricey but worth it. Michalska Cocktail Room is a cosy underground lounge while Spin Coctail Bar is a stylish spot in central Bratislava.

Thanks for reading my Bratislava 1 day itinerary!

I hope you have a fantastic one day in Bratislava and enjoy this relaxed and pretty city. Drop any questions in the comments below.

Check out my other Europe blogs:

• The ultimate Romania road trip
• Top tips for travelling Romania
• 2 days in Brasov Romania
• How to spend 2 days in Sofia, Bulgaria
• Visiting Rila Lakes, Bulgaria
• Visiting Rila Monastery from Sofia, Bulgaria
• What to eat in Prague
• What to eat in Budapest
• Complete 3 day Budapest itinerary
• Things to do in Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
• Guide to visiting Cesky Krumlov Castle

See you next time for more adventures

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TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING SLOVAKIA Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going Driving in Europe – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in European countries (and all around the world). For trains, I use RailEurope . The search feature allows you to compare prices, and they show live departure times on the website. For buses, I use FlixBus . Find journeys between European countries from €1!  Use Omio to compare trains and buses in one search. It’s so handy! For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For tours and activities, I use GetYourGuide . They’re always great value with friendly guides. For food tours pairing travellers with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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Planning a Bratislava Day Trip from Vienna

Last Updated on February 6, 2024

by Adrian Fisk

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Planning a Bratislava day trip from Vienna is a great way to see more of Central Europe without having to venture too far. The beauty of travelling around Europe is that it’s often possible to visit multiple neighbouring countries within a short period of time without having to embark upon lengthy journeys.

Some major cities are in such close proximity it’s possible to pop across the border in the morning, see a few sights and be back before bedtime. If you’ve sampled enough of Vienna’s delights and perhaps want to experience somewhere different or just have a day to spare, then visiting Bratislava is a very plausible option.

The capital city of Slovakia lies around an hour away with a compact, pedestrian-friendly Old Town and its most notable spots within reasonable walking distance of each other.

Table of Contents

Getting from Vienna to Bratislava

The three main methods of transport from Bratislava to Vienna are train, bus and car. Although limited, a ferry service does exist and has also been included.

By Organised Tour

Your one day in Bratislava can be done as part of a group tour if you prefer not to travel independently.

This full-day guided tour and this full-day tour leaves Vienna in the morning by bus and includes a walk around the Old Town of Bratislava with an accompanying guide. The return leg is completed by boat.

Another option is to take this guided tour that includes food and drink, the nature of which varies depending on what you choose but could be lunch or beer tasting. Again, a guide will provide background information on Bratislava’s sights. Travel is by bus only.

Alternatively, you can also book a private tour if you would rather have a guide to yourself.

The train is often a good way to travel as one can sit, observe and listen to locals, enjoy scenery, or have a bite to eat whilst reading up on a particular destination.

What makes the train particularly viable in this instance is the relatively short journey time, the high number of trains that run between the two cities and the reasonable cost of travel.

The train from Vienna to Bratislava will have you arriving in Bratislava Hlavná Stanica, the main station, just over 1 hour after leaving Vienna , but do note that some trains go to Bratislava-Petrzalka, which is across the Danube River and away from the main tourist areas.

At least one train per hour journeys between each city’s main station, but it’s best to check the latest timetables online and book in advance for cheaper fares. Click here to view the latest schedules .

Getting to Bratislava from Vienna by bus for your day in the capital of Slovakia should also be fairly straightforward and may be the preferred choice for those on a tight budget in Central Europe .

Direct buses depart Vienna from Vienna Erdberg International Bus Terminal and Vienna Central Station with the journey time to Bratislava varying from 1 hour to 1 hour 40 mins depending on the departure and arrival point (there are three in Bratislava).

Services are very frequent with multiple per hour that run pretty much all day. You can view schedules here .

For those not willing to rely on public transport or who prefer the flexibility and independence that driving brings for their day trip from Vienna to Bratislava, then expect a car journey to last approximately 1-1.5hours.

The route using the A4 and A6 should take about an hour or at least, be quicker, but be aware that this route does have tolls. Avoiding these tolls means extending your journey to around an hour and a half and using either the B9 or B10.

In most cities finding a parking space can be somewhat problematic and is something to think about if considering making the journey by car. Also be alert to the parking rules and regulations which are likely to differ in each, plus the added cost implication. 

If you’re planning on hiring a car as part of a longer trip through Central Europe, then searching on Rentalcars.com will allow you to find a great deal as the platform compares prices across many of the major car hire companies.

With the River Danube flowing through both, it is possible to travel from Vienna to Bratislava by boat. Journeys are more frequent in the high season (the summer months) with 3 ferries leaving Vienna daily.

The timetable changes at the end of September with fewer services that may only run on certain days. The trip lasts approximately an hour and fifteen minutes with ticket prices varying depending on the date of travel.

Vienna to Bratislava Day Trip Itinerary

Although one day is not a huge amount of time, it should be enough in a city of Bratislava’s size to take in some of its most notable sights and learn a little more about what it was like for people living under a communist regime.

Bratislava Old Town

Old Towns retain a postcard-esque charm even though many are now tourism hubs interspersed with bars, restaurants and souvenir shops. However, these areas retain visual, historical and cultural elements of the past that can make them worth visiting.

Hlavné nám, the Main Square, is considered the centre of Bratislava’s Old Town. Palaces and perhaps oddly, the Embassy of Greece, line its perimeter. The Main Square’s main attraction is the Old Town Hall which is home to the Museum of City History and its gruesome yet intriguing collection of torture devices dating from the 16 th -18 th centuries.

Within a 5-minute walk of the square lies the mottled green-capped tower of St. Michael with its underlying gate- the only remaining of the four original gates that allowed entry to the former medieval city. Within the tower is another museum, the Museum of Arms, and an observation floor with views overlooking the Old Town.  

It may be worth deciding which of the buildings and museums to explore in more depth, assuming that is, you wish to see more than just the Old Town during your Bratislava one-day trip. However, it is worth it to tour the Primate’s Palace and see the gorgeous Hall of Mirrors, learn about the history at the Bratislava City Museum or even take in the beautiful Art Nouveau architecture at the Blue Church.

If you plan to visit a number of museums, the Bratislava Card can be good value and also includes a walking tour of the Old Town as well as a public transport card. It’s also possible to simply book a walking tour of the Old Town if you want to learn more about the history of the city and get around Bratislava with the help of a knowledgeable tour guide.

Bratislava Castle

Arguably the city’s most iconic image is that of its white-walled, four-towered castle perched atop a rocky hill. The fortification, which has been the home of former heads of state, has taken on many incarnations in its long history, with the current one owing much to renovations carried out in the 1960s.

Buildings of this age are steeped in legend and folklore. One, in particular, tells the story of the giant, who it was said, would flip the castle over and use it as a table on his morning commute to work. With the giant having either moved or found a more suitable surface from which to eat, the Slovakian government deemed the castle fit enough to house collections from the Slovak National Museum.

Entry is ticketed (it is included in the Bratislava Card), but visitors can walk up the hill, wander the grounds and enjoy views across and along the Danube for free. Visiting the castle is definitely one of the best things to do in Bratislava in a day.

Communism Walking Tour

Walking tours are a very good way of seeing destinations, and not only learning facts about them but gaining perspectives and insight from the local guides, many of whom share interesting personal stories about themselves or their families.

The most interesting tours are those which have a particular theme or slant, usually regarding subject matter that sparks controversy or stirs strong opinion. The free communism walking tour in Bratislava meets these criteria.  

Your guide will take you to places dotted around the city centre synonymous with communism such as the Slovensky rozhlas (Building of Slovak Broadcasting) and Namestie Slobody (Freedom Square).

History and the everyday life of a Bratislavan under a communist regime- both the positive and negative aspects are explained and described. The guide may even show photographs from that period as a visual contrast to then and now. You will also go by certain sites such as the UFO Bridge, some socialist realist statues, the Pyramid Radio Station and more.

With only a day, it may be tough to find the time for a walking tour, but if you can fit one in, then do so. If you don’t want to do a walking tour, it’s also possible to take a communist tour of Bratislava with vehicle transport.

Have more time?

If you intend to extend your trip to Bratislava then here are a couple of further suggestions for things to see and do:

Looking over the Danube from the Old Town side of Bratislava, it’d be impossible not to notice what looks like either a decapitated puppet from the smash potato adverts perched atop a pylon, or, a UFO on a stick.

The UFO Tower on the Most SNP, as it is actually known, offers great views of the city with, on a good day, visibility of up to 100 kilometres thanks to its 95m high observation deck. The alien craft is host to a restaurant and bar with, in effect, a full refund on the cost of an entrance ticket to the observation deck if eating a main course at the restaurant. 

This stop could be suitably combined with a walk across the Most SNP (or the Bridge of the Slovak National Uprising). It is said to be the world’s longest one-pylon and one cable-stayed plane bridge.

Devín Castle, which lies about 10km northwest of Bratislava, is a potential day trip in itself. The rocky ruins stand in an area of visual beauty, backed by the Little Carpathian Mountains and overlooking the spot where the Danube and Morava rivers meet.

You also could simply relax and enjoy the lovely cafe culture of Bratislava for a bit more time – the city is compact but it certainly retains a definitive charm that is worth absorbing.

You can also use Bratislava as a stopover when travelling to or from the Hungarian capital of Budapest en route to Vienna. The Slovak capital makes for a great “halfway” point between the two.

Where to Stay in Vienna

Motel One Wien – Hauptbahnhof – This hotel is a great place to stay if you want a chic and trendy hotel in a convenient location for exploring Vienna. Situated close to Vienna’s main train station (perfect for visiting Bratislava!), they have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available and an option to include breakfast each morning.

Hostel Ruthensteiner – This family-run hostel is one of the highest-rated in Vienna and is a great place to stay if you’re travelling solo or on a budget. They have a range of dorm beds and private rooms available and also have good common areas in order to make meeting other travellers easy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Vienna hotels!

Where to Stay in Bratislava

Smart&Green Living by Ambiente – This aparthotel is an excellent place to stay in Bratislava if you’re looking for a clean and convenient place to rest your head without breaking the bank. They have a range of different, well-equipped apartments available and their central location makes exploring Bratislava easy.

Arcadia Boutique Hotel – This chich hotel is an excellent place to stay in Bratislava if you’re looking for a luxurious and classic stay in the city. They have a range of plush and comfortable rooms available, numerous amenities including a spa on site, and a central location only 50 metres from the main square.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bratislava hotels!

A day trip to Bratislava from Vienna is an entirely plausible option owing to their proximity and the ease of which they can be travelled between. Bratislava offers the traveller visiting from Vienna something different whether that’s just for a day or beyond.

Are you planning to visit Bratislava? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Innsbruck Itinerary

The Perfect One Day in Graz Itinerary

The Ultimate One Day in Hallstatt Itinerary

About Adrian Fisk

Adrian is a writer for The World Was Here First. He is a passionate world traveller and spends most of his free time travelling around his native England, jetting off to Europe and planning excursions further afield.

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How to Visit Bratislava in One Day – Planning a Vienna to Bratislava Day Trip

Bratislava is a city that has borne many identities throughout history but has emerged to be the colourful and quirky capital of Slovakia you see today. The tension and unrest of previous years have subsided and the modern city embodies a unique identity that has only proved to welcome its diversity rather than rebel against it.

This rich character, combined with just being a hop, skip, and jump over the Danube from Austria, means its popularity as a day trip destination from Vienna is growing. But does that mean it’s the right choice for you?

Let’s take a look at the hows, whys, and whats of planning a Vienna to Bratislava day trip so you can plan your time wisely.

Table of Contents

Is Bratislava Worth Visiting?

If you’re anything like me, the first question on your mind (after learning of its proximity) is going to be “is Bratislava worth a visit?”.

I’m going to be honest here and mention it’s a city that wasn’t even on my radar until I started to research day trips from Vienna. But once I found out that the capital city of Slovakia – a country that’s only existed in its current configuration since 1993! – was a little more than an hour away by public transport, it was a no-brainer for me.

After a quick Google search, I was curious to see the mark so many changes of power would have left on the city. How it’s held up in spite of being tug-of-wared between countries (did you know it was once the capital of Hungary?), and what the current dynamic was.

Would it live up to the Slovak stereotypes, or would it be a metropolitan city that has embraced its multicultural past and come out fighting?

After a day exploring, I can’t claim to have all the answers, but I will say that although it can still seem a little rough around the edges, it’s a truly refreshing city with a lot to offer.

So if you have at least 4 days in Vienna, it’s probably worth sparing one of those to jump over the ditch to discover Bratislava’s unique appeal.

How to get from Vienna to Bratislava

When planning a day trip to Bratislava you have several options for transport. I’ve detailed the pros and cons of each method below.

=> Catching the Bus from Vienna to Bratislava

Getting the bus from Vienna to Bratislava is the cheapest option. I travelled with RegioJet who offer one-way tickets for just €5! Besides the fact that this is ridiculously cheap, it seems like an even better deal when you learn that they have free WIFI, free in-seat entertainment, and free hot beverages! They will also drop you off right next to the old town so can start exploring straight away.

The total journey time is a little longer than on the train, but not so much if you count the time it takes getting into Bratislava Old Town from the train station.

Eurolines, Flixbus, PolskiBus, and Slovak Lines Express also run this route.

• Journey time: 90 minutes approx
• Price (return): €10

=> Catching the Train from Vienna to Bratislava

Another popular option is taking the train from Vienna to Bratislava. You can buy train tickets from Vienna to Bratislava online in advance from ÖBB , but popular opinion is that this isn’t necessary. Instead, you can buy your ticket right from the machines at Vienna train stations on the day of travel.

The ticket you want to purchase is called the Bratislava Ticket, or the Euregio Slovakia, which will allow you to travel to Bratislava and back, but it also covers public urban transport within Bratislava for the first day of travel. This is important, as the train station is not in town and you will have to take a bus or tram to reach the city centre from the train station (Hlavná Stanica).

• Journey time: 1 hour approx + time to get to the city from the train station
• Price (return): €16

=> Take a Boat from Vienna to Bratislava

Another option for travelling from Vienna to Bratislava is to take a boat. The Twin City Liner travels from Vienna to Bratislava via the Danube. This might be a good option in summer if you want the journey to be a part of the experience, but in winter the sailings are few and far between. So choose the bus or train instead.

To get a ferry from Vienna to Bratislava you can book online at Twin City . The tickets start at €30 per trip and will deposit you near the old town centre.

• Journey time: 75 minutes approx
• Price (return): From €60

=> Driving from Vienna to Bratislava

Originally when I booked my trip to Vienna I thought I’d rent a car in order to take day trips around the country (and beyond). But I soon realised that parking in the city is both expensive and limited, so I chose to take day trips using public transport instead.

However, if you have parking included at your accommodation, driving to Bratislava from Vienna could be a viable option. The journey will take you around an hour by car. Just be aware that you will need to purchase a Slovakia Highway Vignette before you travel, and also ensure your rental car company is aware that you’re travelling out of the country.

How to Spend One Day in Bratislava

Covering all of Bratislava in a day is a little unrealistic. However, many of the city’s main attractions are centred around the old town, meaning they’re within easy walking distance of each other.

I personally managed to cover all of the below attractions in around 6 hours without feeling rushed, but I didn’t linger too long in any one spot either. So when deciding what to do in Bratislava in one day – look no further!

TAKE A WALK AROUND BRATISLAVA CASTLE

Bratislava Castle sits high on a hill overlooking the old town. Indeed, you can see it from almost anywhere so it serves as an attractive landmark when exploring the city.

The castle’s site has been inhabited since the Eneolithic Period and various renditions of a castle have been built, destroyed and rebuilt again over the centuries. Today’s version of the castle is fairly young, having been restored in the mid-20th century in tune with the Baroque style it sported up until flames destroyed it in the early 19th century.

To reach the castle you have to plan your route, as it’s on the other side of the highway that cuts through the edge of the old town. You can either duck under the Most SNP (UFO) Bridge, or take the footbridge from the old city walls behind Kapitulská street.

From either end, the castle is signposted. It’s a short but fairly steep walk up the hill, but the views are rewarding and it’s a very pretty part of town.

Once you get to the top you can enjoy a walk around the castle grounds, or pay admission to enter the museum & treasury. Entrance is €10. I personally chose to stick to admiring the castle from the outside as I’d read mixed reviews of the museum.

On your way back down the hill, pop into Zeitlos for a drink on the terrace.

BROWSE THE OLD TOWN HALL MUSEUM & CLIMB THE TOWER

If you’ve only got an afternoon in Bratislava, you’re probably not going to want to spend the entirety of it diving into the town’s history. But even if you’re not a museum-buff, make sure you head along to the Old Town Hall – because it’s where you’ll find the best view over the historical centre. Which is even more magical at Christmastime!

Standing overlooking the main square in the city centre, the Old Town Hall is the oldest city hall in Slovakia and one of the earliest stone buildings in the city. The Bratislava City Museum is housed inside, and it’s here you’ll find exhibits detailing the town’s history and feudal justice system.

To enter, walk through the old gateway into the courtyard beyond. From here, the entrance to the museum and tower is on your right. Luckily, if you’re short on time, or only want admission to the tower, you can purchase a tower-only ticket for a reduced price of €2.50. You’ll be guided towards a set of stairs, where you’ll start your climb to the lookout.

As you ascend through the floors via the spiral staircase, you’ll pass some stunning architecture, and catch a glimpse of the view to come. Once you reach the top (it’s not a strenuous climb), a narrow balcony encircles the tower and delivers the sought-after viewpoints.

ADMIRE MICHAEL’S GATE

Michael’s Gate is the name of the bell-topped tower at the edge of the old town. The only remaining gate of the city’s medieval fortifications, it was originally bordered by a moat! These days you won’t have to wade through water or over a drawbridge, but the original character has been well-preserved.

Although it was built in a gothic style, the current Baroque style heralds from the 18th century when modifications were undertaken – including the addition of a statue depicting St Michael slaying a Dragon at the top.

Inside the tower, you’ll find a quirky museum telling the tale of the town’s medieval history and eventual destruction of the fortified walls. But the main drawcard here is the viewpoint at the top of the tower which can only be accessed by purchasing entrance to the museum.

To get inside, you’ll find a discreet brown door on the righthand side of the gate (southern side). Entry costs €5 which I thought was a little steep for the petite museum (little more than a series of landings with a few small exhibitions each). And as the view wasn’t the best in town (I preferred the view from the Old Town Hall), I’d suggest just admiring the tower from below unless you have a particular interest in learning about the history of Bratislava & viewing the collection of weapons on display.

WANDER DOWN THE MOST CHARMING MEDIEVAL STREETS

On the edge of the old town, you’ll find two of the most interesting streets in Bratislava. They’re not the most beautiful, but they offer an alternative view of the city for anyone wanting to escape the crowds and venture somewhere a little off the main beat.

Kapitulská Street is one of the oldest streets in the city, as is evidenced by the original cobblestone pavings and medieval façades. Its modest length is bordered by pastel-coloured buildings in various states of disrepair, but don’t let that put you off. There’s a certain element of mystery to this corner of Bratislava, and it’s worth a little detour to explore.

Stemming off Kapitulská Street, Farska Street will deliver you back towards the heart of the old town, but not before enchanting you with its feudal architecture and gothic church.

SPOT STATUES IN THE OLD TOWN

When spending one day in Bratislava, you’ll most probably be spending the majority of your time meandering around the old town. In fact, if you only had a couple of hours up your sleeve, that’s exactly what I’d recommend you do..

The medieval town centre is unquestionably charming and after travelling from Vienna to Bratislava, offers a very different feel to the more polished Austrian capital. Quirky pastel-hued buildings rub shoulders with ornate looking palaces and the medley of styles is mesmerising.

By just following your nose, you’ll no doubt wander past some of the most historically important buildings in Bratislava, an eclectic collection of bronze statues, and a plethora of boutiques and upmarket stores clambering for your attention.

When in need of a rest, simply sink into a café terrace and watch the world go by, or duck into one of the alleyways to discover a hidden courtyard or delicious patisserie.

The old town is relatively petite for a capital city, and although you could get lost for hours if you take your time to savour the shops and scenery, you could also whiz through it in under an hour if in a hurry!

VISIT THE BLUE CHURCH AND PINK PALACE

Bratislava is a very colourful city overall, but as you’re exploring, there are two historical buildings that really stand out from the rest – and not just for their Instagrammable façades!

The famous Blue Church (officially called the Church of St. Elizabeth) rests on the outskirts of the old town, next to a school built in a similar style (the two buildings shared an architect). The early 20th-century church is quite striking from a distance – looking like something out of a Disney movie – but it’s once you get up close you realise the real beauty is in the details.

The intricate paintwork is enhanced by blue mosaics and majolicas, it even sports a blue slate roof! It wouldn’t look totally out of place in Portugal…

Opening hours are limited, but if you do manage to gain entry, you’ll be greeted with – you guessed it – more blue. The ornate interior is enhanced with blue pews and wall accents. Although this time the effect is broken up by golds and reds too.

10 minute’s walk from the Blue Church, tucked behind the Main Square and Old Town Hall, you’ll find the Pink Palace – more commonly known as the Primatial Palace or Primate’s Palace. This 18th-century mansion built in a classical style is stunning from the outside, but the real beauty lies within.

Entrance to the palace only costs €3 and gains you access to several salons, halls and the hidden courtyard. Admire the Hall of Mirrors, the intricate English tapestries and the stately portraits of Hungarian rulers in the picture gallery.

There are several other noteworthy buildings and churches throughout the old town. My particular favourites were this Art Nouveau Building pictured above and the Trinity Church whose mellow pink exterior belies the lavish Rococo style interior.

SCALE THE UFO TOWER AT SUNSET

One of the most iconic sights on Bratislava’s skyline, second only to the Bratislava Castle, is the UFO Bridge (officially called the SNP Bridge). Being the 7th largest hanging bridge in the world might not be a claim to fame, but keep in mind it’s also the world’s longest bridge to be supported by just one pylon. It’s at the top of this pylon that you’ll find the bridge’s main attraction – the UFO-shaped restaurant and viewing deck.

Given the overall appearance of the bridge, it may come as no surprise that it was erected in the 1970s during Socialist Czechoslovakia. The communist style of the bridge is at odds with the historical centre that rests at one end. Indeed, part of the historical centre, including a neologic synagogue, was destroyed in the creation of the bridge and accompanying highway.

Now that the dust has settled and tensions eased, the bridge has become a popular tourist attraction. The observation deck offers unparalleled views of Bratislava and beyond. To gain access you can either pay an entrance fee of €7.40 to ride the elevator to the top or make a reservation at the UFO restaurant (in which case access is granted without additional charge). Just keep in mind that this flying-saucer shaped restaurant charges extraterrestrial prices!

I headed up the slightly claustrophobic elevator in the late afternoon hoping to catch the golden hour hues, and I was mesmerised by the view. Surprisingly, it wasn’t the old town and hilltop castle that kept my shutter clicking, but rather the eerie-looking Sad Janka Kráľa park and on the opposite side, the riverside walkway towards the Most Lafranconi bridge. With the burnt-autumn palette and descending mist, I couldn’t pull my eyes away.

Schedule in around an hour to visit if you’re there for the views, or a little longer if you’re hoping to capture some sunset magic.

BRATISLAVA CHRISTMAS MARKETS

If your Bratislava day trip coincides with the Christmas period, you’re in for a real treat! There are several markets scattered throughout Bratislava so you won’t need to walk far to sniff one out!

The markets are the perfect place to sample traditional Slovakian foods such as potato pancakes or chimney cakes. And a warm mug of mulled wine or a cup of punch will ward off any winter chills.

Where to eat in Bratislava

If there’s one thing that surprised me the most about visiting Bratislava (besides the insanely gorgeous old town and the impressive historical sites), it was the amazing array of restaurants and cafes on offer. Everything from patisseries that wouldn’t look out of place in Paris , to cosy coffee shops and trendy juice bars, it really seemed to have it all.

Many different cuisines were represented on the restaurant’s menus too, from Asian-fusion to Georgian favourites, and of course plenty of traditional Slovakian staples too. With only 1 day in Bratislava you’re not going to be able to sample them all, so here are some of the most interesting places to delight your appetite!

Located in the heart of the old town, Nobile caught my eye straight away. What looks like an upmarket restaurant from the outside is actually a surprisingly affordable dining room serving up organic home-grown Georgian cuisine! After visiting Tbilisi last winter and falling in love with the food, I was yearning for some Lobio and Ajika. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite live up to my high expectations. But it was still an enjoyable meal at a ridiculously good price. There’s also a kid’s room out the back to keep little ones busy while you eat.

A French-style bistro in Bratislava, this cosy cafe is just the place to warm up with a hot chocolate if you’re exploring the city in winter. There are several branches of this local favourite. But the original – the one that caught my eye because of it’s floating terrace and bustling atmosphere – is on Panksa Street in the old town.

Urban House

If you’re looking for where all the cool kids hang out, head to Urban House. This trendy cafe morphs into a wine bar at night and serves all your hipster favourites. From poke bowls to pizza – it’s also a great place to find vegan food in Bratislava.

For authentic Japanese ramen, look no further than Ramen Kazu. The simple menu is paired down to what they do best and served in a zen-like space.

Five Points

For a late breakfast or brunch, head to Five Points café where you’ll find eggs served in any style and served with a good strong coffee. Skip this one if you’re vegan as there are no obvious options.

Eating cake seems to be the favourite pastime in Bratislava and there is no shortage of patisseries all too willing to indulge the masses! Pollito serves up slices of decadent cheesecakes at any time of the day or night and is a popular choice with the locals.

It’s absolutely doable to visit Bratislava in one day from Vienna. The petite capital is compact and easy to navigate by foot, plus there’s plenty to keep you busy, however long you decide to stay for!

I hope this information has helped you plan your Vienna to Bratislava day trip. Do let me know if you have any questions below…

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Hello! Thanks for this article! Very helpful in planning my day trip to Bratislava from Vienna in October. As I plan on taking the bus like you did, I have a question. What’s the latest return trip for the bus? Were you able to get one after your dinner?

Hi Noel, they run quite late into the evening. Just had a quick look and the last one seems to leave around 10.50 in the evening most nights.

Hi! Which Bratislava bus station did you book your ticket to when you booked with RegioJet? You mentioned it was close to Old Town. Thanks!

Hello, I believe it was the Nivy bus station. It’s a short walk to the old town from there.

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Day trip from Vienna to Bratislava – Planning a Vienna to Bratislava Day Trip

Last Updated on March 23, 2024 by gregor

Are you considering a day trip from Vienna to Bratislava? Planning a Vienna to Bratislava day trip offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the vibrant capital of Slovakia in just a short journey. Whether you prefer guided tours or independent exploration, there are various options available. From sightseeing bus tours to private walking tours, you can immerse yourself in Bratislava’s rich culture and history. Indulge in delicious food options, discover iconic landmarks like the Bratislava Castle, and soak in the picturesque views along the Danube River. Join us as we delve into the exciting possibilities of experiencing Bratislava from Vienna in a single day.

It takes just about an hour to travel from Vienna to Bratislava so this makes it easy to go for just a day or to spend a longer holiday in Slovakia. Its gorgeous hilltop castle, innovative museums, and historic center make it an excellent spot for a Bratislava day trip from Vienna.

Day trip from Vienna to Bratislava – one-day itinerary

Explore the tastes of bratislava on a day trip.

Embark on a gastronomic adventure as you journey from Vienna to Bratislava. This day trip promises not only scenic views but also tantalizing flavors waiting to be discovered. From hearty goulash to delicate pastries, Bratislava boasts a diverse culinary landscape that reflects its rich history and cultural influences. Immerse yourself in the local food scene, guided by experts who know the best spots to indulge your palate.

Bratislava by Sightseeing Bus

For those seeking a hassle-free way to explore Bratislava’s landmarks, a sightseeing bus tour is the ideal choice. Sit comfortably as the bus navigates through the city, stopping at iconic sites such as the Bratislava Castle, St. Martin’s Cathedral, and the charming Old Town. Knowledgeable guides provide informative commentary, offering insights into the city’s history and architecture along the way.

Vienna to Bratislava Tour by Bus and Boat

Experience the beauty of the Danube River on a combined bus and boat tour from Vienna to Bratislava. Begin your journey with a scenic bus ride through picturesque landscapes before transferring to a boat for a leisurely cruise along the river. Marvel at the panoramic views of Bratislava’s skyline and landmarks from the water, creating lasting memories of this unique travel experience.

Bratislava City Tour with Food Options

Indulge your senses on a guided city tour that incorporates culinary delights into the itinerary. Explore Bratislava’s hidden culinary gems, sampling local specialties and traditional dishes at authentic eateries. From savory dumplings to sweet treats, each bite offers a taste of Slovakian culture, accompanied by insights into the city’s culinary traditions and history.

Private Walking Tour of Bratislava

Uncover the secrets of Bratislava with a private walking tour tailored to your interests and preferences. Wander through cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways as your guide shares stories of the city’s past and present. Discover lesser-known attractions, vibrant neighborhoods, and charming squares that often escape the attention of larger tour groups.

Riverside, Castle, or Complete City Segway Tours

Add an element of excitement to your Bratislava adventure with a segway tour of the city. Choose from various tour options, including riverside promenades, castle explorations, or comprehensive city circuits. Glide effortlessly through the streets aboard a segway, stopping to admire landmarks and capture memorable photos along the way.

Bratislava Half-Day Trip from Vienna

Short on time but eager to explore Bratislava? Opt for a half-day trip that allows you to make the most of your visit without sacrificing your schedule. Spend a few hours discovering the city’s highlights, from its historic landmarks to its vibrant culture, before returning to Vienna refreshed and inspired.

  Click here to view the latest schedules.

Things to Do and See in Bratislava in One-Day

Bratislava castle.

Without a doubt, one of the most iconic sights in Bratislava that you absolutely need to see during your trip is Bratislava Castle. This simply breathtaking white and red design is a truly monumental sight in its own right; however, the castle’s history is also exceptional. Its picturesque position also ensures that Bratislava Castle overlooks some of the most breathtaking sights in the region. It’s an exceptionally well-fortified building, and this amazing sight is one you will surely cherish for a lifetime.

Book your Guided Tour tickets to the Bratislava Castle here:

St Martin’s Cathedral

If you love stunning architecture, a visit to St Martin’s Cathedral is undeniably on the cards. This breathtaking gothic 15th-century cathedral has seen a huge wealth of history and exciting developments, over the years. With almost twenty members of the royal family of Bratislava being crowned in the Cathedral alone, it’s undeniably a hugely historic location. Better yet, it’s right by Bratislava Castle itself, so you can easily combine the visits together to make the most of your time in Bratislava.

Bratislava Centre

The historic center of Bratislava, located by the Danube River, is truly an iconic and exceptionally memorable destination for anyone visiting this amazing country. There’s a certain old-world magic about the region, with its brightly colored and breathtakingly designed buildings and architecture. Whether you’re visiting for the shopping opportunities locally or just to take in the sights of this simply beautiful location, it’s easy to lose a whole day exploring the historic city center alone. As such, try to ensure you’ve got plenty of time to immerse yourself in the beauty of the region; you’ll be glad you did!

St Elizabeth’s Church

It’s bright, bold, and hard to miss – the stunning St Elizabeth’s Church, otherwise known as the Blue Church, is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the old town of Bratislava. Indeed, St Elizabeth’s Church is iconic both for its vibrantly blue exterior and stunning Disney-esque design, both of which give it a certain magic and surreal feel accordingly.

The Old Town Hall

There are countless stunning things to do and see in Bratislava, but few have quite the history of the amazing Old Town Hall on Hlavne Namestie. This incredible development comprises several ancient houses and palaces, including old houses palaces, a 16th-century courtyard, and a breathtaking 13th-century Tuscan gothic-style main tower. It might be a somewhat eclectic mix of styles. Still, these styles undeniably work excellently together to create an intriguing destination for any holiday.

Slavin War Memorial

Slavín is the name of a war memorial and cemetery in Bratislava honoring the Soviet soldiers who lost their lives in the course of World War II capturing the city of Bratislava in April 1945. It is located on a hill in the western part of Bratislava’s Old Town, which overlooks the mesmerizing Danube River.

Michael’s Gate

Bratislava’s Old Town area is packed with stunning historic sights and landmarks, and Michael’s Gate is just one such example. As the only surviving example of Bratislava’s original four medieval gates, constructed in the early 1300s, Michael’s Gate towers over the local area at roughly fifty meters in height. Its breathtaking modern design was realized fully in 1759 when a remodel of the gate helped give it its modern, breathtaking charm.

Devin Castle and Wine Tour

If you’ve been looking for a way to spruce up your exploration of the breathtaking Devin Castle, why not add in a little wine-tasting session for the adults at your party? Should be a fantastic addition to your Bratislava day trip. This simple option will allow you the chance to truly make the most of your time in the area, all the while allowing you to sample some of the most delicious wines in the region as well.

More Information and Book your Tickets here:

  From Bratislava: Devin Castle 3-Hour Private Guided Tour

Slovak National Theater

Few things are more stereotypical than the Slovak National Theater, an almost magical neo-Renaissance opera house. Any visit to this breathtaking building is automatically astounding. Of course, there are countless stunning performances made in the theater, and these are well worth considering as part of your visit.

However, even if you only visit to view the stunning architecture, you’ll be in for a treat. Few destinations are quite as stunning, making it a must for any visit to Bratislava.   

Slovak National Gallery

The Slovak National Gallery is a simply breathtaking collection of sights, located within a simply unforgettable 18th-century palace that’s hard not to fall in love with. Though there are numerous changing exhibitions, you can always count on a gorgeous selection of things to see and do when visiting the Slovak National Gallery in Bratislava thanks to the wide collection of incredibly Baroque art and treasures, dating from the 13 th to the 18 th century.

In short, the gallery’s collection offers just a little of everything. As such, if you’re in the area, we highly recommend visiting to get a feel for Slovak culture accordingly.

Explore by Segway

If you’re keen to explore Bratislava but don’t feel up to the rigors of walking for hours, why not hire a segway instead – the perfect, simple solution to help you get around the city, all the while making your visit so much more fun? This simple activity is the perfect way to pack more into your day. Plus, if you ask us, it’s one of the best things to do in Bratislava in its own right too – so, join in with a segway tour of Bratislava if you’re looking for something less taxing. After all, not everyone enjoys exploring the city by walking, and now, you don’t have to!

  Bratislava: Riverside, Castle, or Complete City Segway Tours

Tour Bratislava by Speed Boat

If you’re looking for exciting things to do in Bratislava, we strongly recommend considering a tour by speedboat. Exploring Bratislava by speedboat isn’t necessarily a long event, but it’s a memorable and iconic addition to your holiday that’s sure to be amazing. Indeed, touring Bratislava by speedboat allows you to see this gorgeous city from a new and unparalleled angle. Exhilarating and exciting, it’s easy to see why so many people adore this amazing activity.

  Bratislava by Private Speedboat

Galeria Nedbalka

If you’ve been looking for a breathtaking and somewhat off-the-beaten-track sight for your time in Bratislava, we strongly recommend giving the Galeria Nedbalka a try. This gorgeous art gallery is absolutely astounding, but it’s often easy to misinterpret quite what it has to offer.

Indeed, with an exceptionally stylish and luxurious interior, packed with modern sculptures and paintings, it’s a simply iconic location that’s hard to ignore. All of the pieces featured in this breathtaking gallery help support the work and lives of countless amazing Slovak artists and sculptors.

More Information and Book your Ticket here:  Bratislava: Nedbalka Gallery with Coffee and Cake Ticket

Try a Bratislava Post-Communism Tour

If you’d like to learn more about the post-communism era in Bratislava, a Post-Communism tour should definitely be on the cards. Not only is this one of the easiest ways to explore the beauty of Bratislava, but you’ll learn loads about the region’s history too. It’s a simple way to enjoy the region’s beauty, so this could be well worth considering if you’re trying to find the optimal experience.

  Bratislava: Soviet Era and Post-Communist Tour

Statues in the Old Town

There are quite a few statues in the city center of Bratislava. The most photographed of these is Cumil, at the junction of Laurinská and Panská Streets. In the main square beneath the Old Town Hall, a friendly Napoleonic soldier is leaning over a bench, while on Sedlárska Street is Schone Naci. He represents Ignac Lamar, a Pressburg citizen in the 19th century who is said to have lost his mind because of unrequited love.

See also the following Blog Post

• 26 BEST THINGS TO DO IN BRATISLAVA (SLOVAKIA)

MAP of Top Things to Do and See in Bratislava

If you’ve been planning a trip to Bratislava, there are numerous things you may need to consider. Luckily, finding the ideal solution for your trip doesn’t have to be a major challenge, and there are plenty of options for amazing things to do in Bratislava. Hopefully, today’s list may have inspired you with some new ideas for places to visit accordingly. After all, there are plenty of amazing options out there, and hopefully, you’ll be able to enjoy the trip of life accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

The majority of people visit Bratislava as a day trip from Vienna , giving it just a brief look and focusing only on the major attractions of the Old Town. And while it’s really lovely, with cobbled narrow streets and the castle towering above the city, most of the tourists are disappointed with Bratislava

Is one day in Bratislava enough? One day in Bratislava is complete enough to visit the castle and tour the most popular sites in the Old Town, including the Christmas market . In fact, the capital city of Slovakia is a great option for a day trip from Vienna. You can get there by train, bus or boat.

Trains from Vienna to Bratislava take just over 1 hour, this makes it easy to go for just a day or to spend a longer holiday in Slovakia. Its gorgeous hilltop castle, innovative museums, and historic center make it an excellent spot for a day trip .

There are 39 direct trains from Vienna to Bratislava each day . Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.

Yes, it is! As with any major capital in Europe, you can easily spend 2 or 3 days in Bratislava, but if you have just one day, don’t worry. You can definitely see all the major attractions in Bratislava in one day. I have some recommendations for the best tours in Bratislava below too. Many visitors stop in Bratislava for one day as they are visiting Vienna (can’t blame them – Vienna is epic) and of course, there are those who visit Budapest and Prague, both cities are around 4h by train away. So let’s get started. This guide focuses on the best things to do in Bratislava, Slovakia. I included the must-see attractions when visiting Bratislava. Below you can find also a GOOGLE Map with all the sightseeing spots.

The buses leave either from the International Bus Terminal Erdberg or the Central Train and Bus Station (Hauptbahnhof) . Buses run very regularly between Vienna and Bratislava, and you can get one pretty much every hour. A few bus companies are operating the bus from Vienna to Bratislava and back, the most popular being Flixbus and Slovak Lines. By train Every hour trains depart from Vienna Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) and arrive at Bratislava hl.st. (short for hlavná stanica, meaning Main Station). Vienna Hauptbahnhof is less than a 10-minute taxi ride from downtown Vienna, or you can get off at the Hauptbahnhof metro station (U1).  Every hour trains depart from Vienna Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) and arrive at Bratislava hl.st. (short for hlavná stanica, meaning Main Station). Vienna Hauptbahnhof is less than a 10-minute taxi ride from downtown Vienna, or you can get off at the Hauptbahnhof metro station (U1).  Tickets: You must purchase Bratislava tickets before getting on the train and you can do this either at the machines or the ticket office at the train station. The price is usually about 10 euros one way.At least one train per hour journeys between each city’s main station, but it’s best to check the latest timetables online and book in advance for cheaper fares.  Click here to view the latest schedules. By boat:  The company Twin City Liner offers a great boat ride between Vienna and Bratislava, which is absolutely perfect for a day trip. The boat departs at 10:30 from Vienna (Schwedenplatz) and at 18:30 from Bratislava. It operates daily during the high season (from April to September) and on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the low season. You can see the full Twin City Liner Vienna to Bratislava schedule here.

The Vienna-Bratislava ferry route connects Austria with Slovakia. The Twin City Liner operates up to 21 times each week with sailing durations from around 1 hour and 30 minutes The company  Twin City Liner  offers a great boat ride between Vienna and Bratislava, which is absolutely perfect for a day trip. The boat departs at 10:30 from Vienna (Schwedenplatz) and at 18:30 from Bratislava. It operates daily during the high season (from April to September) and on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the low season.  You can see the full Twin City Liner Vienna to Bratislava schedule here.

Two days is better if you want to have enough time to visit beyond the Old Town and go outside to the countryside, famous for its wine. Bratislava is a charming city, but with only a few main attractions it is possible to see the city in just one or two days. 

Bratislava is a very walkable city . All key points of interest and sightseeing spots are easily accessible on foot.

The official currency in Bratislava, Slovakia is Euro (€) . The Euro is the official currency of 19 out of the 27 member states of the European Union. This group of states is known as the eurozone or, officially, the euro area, and includes about 340 million citizens as of 2019. The euro is divided into 100 cents. Wikipedia

Nearly everyone in the city center of Bratislava speaks some English language.  Every waiter and nearly all shop assistants will communicate in English if you visit Bratislava or any of the larger towns, a fact it’s probably worth bearing in mind. .

The official language in Slovakia and therefore also in Bratislava is Slovak . You may be wondering if there is any need to learn any Slovak before visiting Bratislava.

Is the tap water in Bratislava safe to drink? In a word, yes. The water flowing out of Bratislava’s taps is fine to drink, although not if there is a cross sign above the tap .

In comparison to other European Cities, Bratislava is still significantly cheaper . In Bratislava, the prices can be similar to other cities, but the smaller cities the prices are lower.

Bratislava is about 20 % cheaper than Vienna .

The distance between Vienna and Bratislava is only 79 km . About 45min by car from Vienna to Bratislava. 

Uber is available at Bratislava & Bratislava Airport.

Th e best time to visit when days are warm with pleasant, mild weather for most of May The climate in Bratislava is continental, with short, fairly hot summers and chilly winters. The hottest months are July and August followed by June..

It’s free to walk through the grounds and admire the castle . You only pay to visit the exhibitions, but walking on the grounds was more than enough. Most museums here do charge an entrance fee, of which the average cost is about 4.- Euros. But, one of Bratislava’s national treasures is free and open to the public every day except for holidays and Mondays . Bratislava Castle sits high on a hill.

There is a possibility to access the castle via 3 gates: Sigmund gate – is considered to be the most complex and the most frequent one when accessing from the old town to the south-eastern part of the castle complex.  Follow the street “Židovská” & “Mikuláška” street, and then turn to the “Beblavého” .So is Bratislava nice, and is Bratislava worth visiting?  Absolutely!  Bratislava is not on many travelers’ radars, however, it definitely should be. It is a city filled with art, architecture, and history and surrounded by natural beauty.

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1 Day in Bratislava : A Day Trip from Vienna

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Bratislava is the capital of Slovakia, and the biggest city. It is also an absolute peach of a city, with delicious food, amazing architecture and friendly locals. A day trip to Bratislava from Vienna is very easy, either by train or by boat; if you want to combine a trip on the Danube into your visit. Spending 1 day in Bratislava is a must-do if you are visiting the Vienna area.

I’ll be the first to admit that I prefer Bratislava over Vienna, and enjoy taking the reverse journey usually (a day trip to Vienna from Bratislava). On our most recent trip, we took some friends who were visiting Vienna over to Bratislava for the day, to share with them our favourite spots. But no matter where you stay, travel between the two cities is very easy.

transport options between Vienna and Bratislava

More famous sights in and around bratislava, a day trip to bratislava, taking the train to bratislava from vienna.

Taking the train from Vienna to Bratislava couldn’t be easier. Trains leave regularly from Vienna Central, or if you are staying in the south of the city, there are direct trains from Wein Simmering station too. Taking a quick 1-hour, and costing around 11€ each way [as of 2023], it is a mere 8 stops before you reach Bratislava Hlavna station. You can buy tickets online in advance from the OEBB website , or at the station at the ticket machines.

Bratislava Hlavna is the main station north of the river in Bratislava, while Bratislava-Petržalka is south of the river. The walk into the centre of town from Bratislava Hlavna is a lovely 15-minute stroll which I would recommend (you can see sights on the way). Or you can catch a tram from the station (tickets are by way of rudimentary ticket machines that take cash only).

You must validate your ticket at the machines for each tram or bus ride.

• You can take the train from Vienna Main or Simmering for around €11, in just over an hour
• The bus from Vienna main train station to Bratislava Einsteinova or Bratislava Most SNP Novy Most Bus station costs around €8, and takes around 1 hour 20 minutes
• You can drive between cities in around 1 hour 20 minutes
• You can take the catamaran along the Danube in around 1.5 hours, and it costs around €34–39

Things to do in Bratislava in one day

Walk from the station via: freedom square, presidential palace & planet of peace fountain.

Walking from the station into the old town of Bratislava is a great way to take in some sights that you would miss if you took the tram.

• Walk out of the Hlavná stanica station and head south, veer to the left down Štefanovičova, walk for 1 block before taking a right to see Freedom Square on Námestie slobody
• Grab a coffee at Triplefive coffee roasters ( Jozefská 2991/2, 811 06 Staré Mesto )
• Make your way 1 more block, to the grand Presidential Palace and Planet of Peace fountain .
• Head down Suché mýto towards Michael’s Gate, if you’re a church-lover, stop at the Old Cathedral of Saint John of Matha and Saint Felix of Valois to admire the 18th-century frescoes.

Michael’s Gate (Michalská brána)

Michael’s Gate is part of the old town fortifications, and probably one of the most photographed buildings in Bratislava (after the Blue Church and the Castle). The 14th-century gate has some later Baroque additions, and houses a museum + view of the old town from the top of the tower.

It was closed for renovation when we visited, so we didn’t get a chance to climb for the view. Check the updates on the VisitBratislava website for reopening information.

The pedestrian street beyond Michael’s Gate is a good place to stop for a refreshment if you need it.

Main Square

The main square in Bratislava isn’t ostentatious like Brussels , or overly ornate like Prague . But it is small and perfectly formed, in my opinion. Points of note include:

• Palugyayov Palace – this former palace once belonged to an important wine merchant. The Neo-Baroque frontage was added in the late 1800s and gives it a cake-like appearance.
• Maximilian’s Fountain – also known as Roland’s Fountain, it depicts Roland, the defender of the city. Apparently he comes to life at the stroke of midnight on New Year to nod at the old town hall. He wasn’t moving when we visited, but it’s a lovely tale.
• Sculptures – Napoleon’s Army Soldier Statue – Napoleon’s army arrived in Bratislava in 1805. Schöne Náci – A delightful street character. Both of these are great for tourist selfies. The other statue on the square is of an old City Guard.
• Old Town Hall – the yellow tower that presides over the main square is part of a complex of buildings that once served as the town hall. These are now a museum and tourist tower. You can access the upper levels of the tower for a great view over the square and up towards the castle.

By far one of the most photographed statues in Bratislava is Čumil (or Rubberneck as it is in English). This bronze workman pokes out of the pavement as if he is coming up from a manhole. There is an amusing ‘Men At Work’ sign next to him for added effect.

Apparently if you rub his head you get good luck for the rest of your life. If you rub his nose, you will get pregnant! The cost of refurbishing bronze is a lot, so I avoided both – no doubt these ‘good luck’ tales are just tourist guff (like Greyfriar’s Bobby in Edinburgh , and the Juliet statue in Verona ).

Primate’s Square

Weave your way back north-east to Primate’s Square. The stunning Primate’s Palace presides over the square in all its pink glory. Inside this classical style building is a music hall, and also the Mayor’s office. See ancient tapestries and paintings, and a hall of mirrors as part of this attraction.

Discounts on entry can be had by buying a Bratislava Card .

The Punishing Well is now decorated with a delightful rose motif, but was once the site of awful punishments! Dolled out to artisans who delivered sub-par products, they were put in a cage and submerged in the well. Luckily this practice was stopped in the late 1700s.

Try traditional Slovak food at Bratislava Flagship

If there’s one thing you must do while visiting Bratislava on a day trip, it’s to try the food. The Slovak use of sheep’s cheese in cooking is a wonderful addition to the Eastern European classics.

The Slovak national dish is bryndzové halušky – small potato dough dumplings (similar to gnocchi, but smaller) with sheep’s cheese, and served with little pieces of fried pork fat. The creaminess of the cheese makes it a little like mac n’ cheese, and the little nuggets of fried pork fat or bacon break through the cream sauce beautifully. It is, texturally and flavour-wise, an absolute delight.

We chose to eat at Bratislava Flagship, because it had such great reviews. The cavernous old theatre has been transformed into an epic food hall. On our last visit, the weather was beautiful, so we chose to eat at the brewery tables outside (Kláštorný pivovar) – which serves food from the Flagship kitchen.

Everything we ate was amazing, and we ended up ordering seconds of the bryndzové halušky because it was so good.

The Blue Church

After you’ve indulged in a very filling lunch of Slovak favourites, make your way 10 minutes down the road to visit the famous Blue Church (Church of St. Elizabeth – Alžbety, Bezručova 2 ).

One of the most unique churches you will ever see, this baby-blue Art-Nouveau cutie has become an instagram hit in recent years. It is definitely worth the detour to see it – the light blue detail is akin to icing on a cake, so it really is a spectacle!

Hviezdoslavovo námestie

Make your way to Hviezdoslavovo Square. This focal point offers beautiful architecture, green spaces, and functions as a transport hub and has a concentration of restaurants.

At the eastern end of the square, the Slovak National Theatre brings some Viennese grandeur to the area. An elaborate statue adorns the roof, and busts are inset into the façade. You can’t tour the inside, but if you are in Bratislava for more than one day, you could catch a show there to see the inside. Ganymede’s Fountain sits in front.

Walk all the way down the avenue of Hviezdoslavovo Square (south-west towards the river), to see the Hans Christian Anderson statue. Grab a gelato from Andersen Ice Cream and sit in this leafy haven to watch the world go by.

This whole walk through the old town of Bratislava tops out at a mere 5kms – it is a very compact centre to explore!

Bratislava Castle OR Chic Bar Hopping

You have a couple of options to close out your day trip to Bratislava. If you are a fan of visiting castles, then a trip to Bratislava Castle is a great option. The Baroque castle has 13th-century roots, but many later additions, alongside remnants of older fortifications.

You can visit the grounds of the castle for free. To go into the castle it costs 10€ full admission. If you’re not overly interested in learning about the history of the castle, reconstructions and seeing the decor inside, then you can just enjoy the views from the fortifications.

If you don’t fancy a trip up to the castle, then stick to the area around St. Martin’s Cathedral. Visit any number of cafés and bars in this area before making your way back to Vienna.

• Martineum Café – for great coffee and cakes next to the cathedral
• Ventúrska Klubovňa – a modern take on a classic beer hall
• Lemontree & Sky Bar Restaurant Bratislava – if cocktails are your jam, then this sky bar is a great place to enjoy some great views and delicious cocktails

If you find yourself with some spare time and want to discover the joys of Slovakian art, then a visit to the nearby Slovak National Gallery is a treat.

If you have more than a day in Bratislava, see these other great sights:

• Esterházy Palace
• Slovak Radio Building (upside down pyramid)
• SNP Bridge (with its UFO-shaped restaurant and lookout tower)
• Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum (south of Bratislava, in a man-made peninsula on the Danube)
• Slavin War Memorial

Taking the Twin City Liner back to Vienna

If you want to pack in even more sightseeing, why not take the Twin City Liner back to Vienna. This boat trip is a fair bit more expensive than the train, but it does offer the chance to enjoy the Danube River , see Devín Castle ( dating back to 864 – 15th century) , and learn more about the importance of the river to these cities.

The Twin City Liner leaves from landing stage 6 opposite the Park Inn by Radisson Danube . And lands at Dock 2, near Schwedenplatz in Vienna.

You can also choose to take a tour which offers a bus ride out and the boat back. Or equally you can also just walk or take a tram back to the train station and take the easy 1-hour train ride back to Vienna.

Where to stay in Bratislava for a longer visit

We are fans of staying in the thick of the action, so recommend you stay in the old town. We are fans of the AC brand of hotels in general, so the AC Hotel by Marriott Bratislava Old Town is our top pick.

Hotel Devín has wonderful Danube river views, and is a short walk to lots of restaurants along Hviezdoslavovo Square.

For options on the outskirts of the main part of the city, but still with great transport routes, try the business-orientated areas on the number 4 tram line – Lindner Hotel Bratislava – JDV by Hyatt , Hotel Set , and DoubleTree by Hilton Bratislava .

How to spend 1 Day in Bratislava on a day trip from Vienna

Spending 1 day in Bratislava is very easy when visiting Vienna (or vice versa). As you’ve probably gathered, there’s lots to see and do in this fantastic Slovakian city, and I would urge you to spend more than one day in the city. While you can get a great taste for the city on a day trip, you’ll fall in love with the laid back vibe, great prices, and lovely old town.

Bratislava has everything I love in a city break. A variety of architectural styles, coming from an interesting history of occupation. It has amazing food and such friendly locals, which is why I choose to stay in Bratislava and day-trip to Vienna instead. I just love the atmosphere and feel of the place.

Bratislava FAQ

Bratislava is most known for being a small and walkable European Capital. Having joined the EU in 2004, Slovakia became more accessible to travellers and the economy boomed. Bratislava is famed for its fun sculptures and cute old town.

Yes – infinitely! The old town, and all you’ll need to access during a day trip or short visit, can all be reached on foot. There are lots of pedestrian areas too. And if you don’t fancy walking, their tram system is comprehensive.

Absolutely. It is compact, well-priced, and has a great balance between family-friendly activities and cosmopolitan nights out. It has a rich history, which provides lots of opportunity for sights and learning + fantastic green spaces and views.

Slovakia is home to some of the highest concentrations of castles in Europe. One of the most famous is Castle of Spirits (Bojnice Castle), 2-hours’ drive from Bratislava. You may also have heard of the ‘bloody countess’, Elizabeth Bathory, who lived in Čachtice Castle.

There are two ways to look at this question. Vienna is HUGE and there is enough to fill your days for a week at least. Bratislava is smaller and you can see much of it in 1-2 days. But with the scale of Vienna comes expense, crowds, transportation, and a sense of scale that isn’t always wanted. So, if you are in search of a more laid back city, and the ability to dip in and out of the hugeness of Vienna, then Bratislava is a great option. Vienna is amazing, don’t get me wrong – but it is a behemoth!

It is notably cheaper than Vienna, but it is still in the EU and has the Euro, so that means there is a base level of price point. Things we found cheaper were the food, accommodation, and entry fees.

Love European travel? Check out my city break guides !

All photos & content © Hannah Henderson and may not be used without permission (sharing this blog post is fine, though!). Images shot with a Canon DSLR T3i Rebel + Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM; and an iPhone.

Advisory : Please follow the advice from official government sources and local authorities regarding travel restrictions. Read and be inspired, and pin it for later!

Hannah Henderson Travel Writer : Photographer : Foodie : Kiwi in France via Scotland

The Ultimate Road Trip in the Italian Dolomites

Austrian road trip inspiration : austria scenic drives, 5 thoughts on “1 day in bratislava : a day trip from vienna”.

Oh, you rekindled our fond memories about this beautiful city! Of course we stayed for 6 days and could cover much more than what you could cover. But this list is excellent if one doesn’t have much time.

Could you also try the famous Bratislavský rožok ? It has 2 flavors and we tried both. 🙂

The UFO restaurant is also good to spend an evening, overlooking the river and the castle.

I’m going to have to write a longer guide with all the things we covered in our longer visits aren’t I? I had Bratislavský rožok last time, didn’t really love it, but maybe I got a bad one? Tell me if you have a recommendation for good ones for me to try next time!

Amazing writing & photos that inspire me to go here! Thanks for sharing.

I was born in Bratislava and I really enjoyed reading this article about the best things to do in my city. It’s great to see that the author has included so many of my favorite places, like the Old Town, Michael’s Gate, and the Danube River. I also agree that taking a day trip to Bratislava from Vienna is a great way to see the best of both cities.

I would add that one of the things I love most about Bratislava is its vibrant food scene. There are so many great restaurants serving traditional Slovak food, as well as international cuisine. I would definitely recommend trying some bryndzové halušky (cheese dumplings) and slivovica (plum brandy) while you’re there.

I mentioned the Slovak food for that very reason – it’s SO good. We loved bryndzové halušky so much, we had two bowls 🤣

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Wander-Lush

15 Unforgettable Day Trips From Bratislava: Old Towns, Castles & Wineries

Slovakia’s capital might be overshadowed by the more-famous cities in the region – especially Budapest and Vienna – but Bratislava offers plenty of attractions and quirky things to do . One of its greatest assets is its central location, which offers the possibility of some amazing day trips both around Slovakia and across borders.

If you’re spending more than a couple of days in Bratislava , take advantage of the excellent public transport connections and good roads to discover the wonderful nature, breathtaking castles, old towns and wineries right on Bratislava’s doorstep.

Here are 15 of the very best Bratislava day trips, as chosen by me and other travel writers, plus a couple of essential tips for planning the perfect day out.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Quick links: Top-rated Bratislava day tours

• Top choice – for Slovakia’s painted village & most famous castle: Day trip to Bojnice & Cicmany
• For an easy day out: Guided boat trip to Devin Castle
• For incredible scenery & hiking: Private day trip to Banska Stiavnica
• For vineyards & wine: Private wine tasting at a family winery in Modra
• For architecture & history: Private day trip to Vienna

Map of Bratislava day trips

Best Bratislava day trips in Slovakia

Bratislava is a great base for exploring the small towns, pristine landscapes – and of course all the wonderful castles – around western and central Slovakia.

Day trip from Bratislava to Devin Castle

• Distance from Bratislava: 13 km (8 miles)
• Travel time: ~1 hour by bus
• Best for: History, views

One of the easiest day trips from Bratislava is a tour of the picturesque Devin Castle (Hrad Devín). With its breathtaking natural surroundings and beautiful green landscape, this place is more reminiscent of Scotland than Slovakia.

Perched atop a 200-metre-high rock, the castle offers a fantastic view of the Danube river flowing through Bratislava and neighbouring Austria.

The history of Devin Castle dates back to the 9th century, making it one of the oldest fortresses in Slovakia. On a walk across the renovated castle grounds you will find plenty of interesting ruins and encounter countless photo opportunities.

Since the castle is only 10 kilometres from Bratislava, it’s ideal for a short day trip or half-day trip. It can easily be reached by car or bus – or you could try a river boat trip from the city centre up to the castle.

Devin Castle is a must-do activity for your Slovakia bucket list and is open year-round, so it’s still an option if you’re visiting Bratislava in winter . Opening hours differ depending on the season. In summer, the castle is closed on Mondays. Entry costs 5€ but if you have a Bratislava Card , it’s completely free.

By Martina & Jürgen from PlacesofJuma

Guided option: Guided boat trip to Devin Castle from Bratislava → Check prices on Viator .

Day trip from Bratislava to Bojnice Castle & Cicmany village

• Distance from Bratislava: 185 km (115 miles)
• Travel time: ~2 hours by car
• Best for: Folk architecture, scenery, culture, castles

For the ultimate fairytale excursion in the Slovakian countryside, pair a visit to the charming ‘painted village’ of Cicmany (Čičmany) with Bojnice Castle, the country’s most iconic storybook castle.

The quaint village of Cicmany in northern Slovakia’s Zilina region is famous for its painted wooden houses. In 1977, a folk architecture reserve was established to protect the town’s most important buildings.

The name comes from the Slovak word čičman , a lumberjack who sings while he works. The tradition of building vernacular wooden cottages dates back to at least 1272. The houses visitors see today are restorations, made after the village was destroyed by fire in 1921. White patterns painted on the timber invoke the patterns found on folk costumes and textiles. Cicmany has a vibrant folk music and dance scene , so try to catch a performance while you’re in town.

Forty-five minutes south of the village, the medieval Bojnice Castle is located en-route to Bratislava. Slovakia’s most iconic and most-visited castle, it’s served as the set for many fairytale films – you’ll no doubt recognise its picture-perfect turrets.

Because of the distance, it’s best to visit Bojnice Castle and Cicmany village with your own car or as part of an organised day tour from Bratislava .

Guided option: Day trip to Bojnice Castle and Cicmany village with return transfers from Bratislava → Check prices on Viator .

Day trip from Bratislava to Modra

• Distance from Bratislava: 27 km (17 miles)
• Travel time: ~30 minutes by car/bus
• Best for: Wine, handicrafts, scenery

Modra (Modrá), a small town in the foothills of the Little Carpathians, is another convenient day trip from Bratislava. It takes less than an hour to reach the town from Bratislava, with buses running every 30 minutes or so from the main station. A one-way ticket costs 3€.

Modra was first mentioned in the 12th century and developed quickly due to its vineyards and winemaking traditions . By the 17th century, it was already one of the most important towns in the Slovak Carpathian region.

Even to this day, Modra is known for its quality wines. It even has its own school for winemakers. Taking all this into consideration, attending a wine tasting is mandatory for anyone who visits Modra.

The second thing this town is famous for is its pottery. Modra became a pottery centre in the 19th century and local craftsmen still produce eye-catching blue-and-white ceramics according to old traditions. Visit the Slovak Ceramic Sculpture Museum to see the attention to detail up close, or participate in a workshop at the local factory to test your skills.

When walking the main street in Modra, you will immediately notice the oldest church in town, a gothic jewel that dates back to the 14th century. From there, a popular three-hour hiking path leads visitors to the 21-metre-high observation tower, Veľká Homola, for a panoramic view of the forest and Little Carpathian mountains beyond.

Once it’s time to grab a bite to eat in Modra, look no further than Hotel Sebastian u Hoffera . They serve traditional Slovak dishes and international food on a beautiful terrace.

By Raluca from Travel with a Spin

Guided option: Private wine tasting at a family winery in Modra → Check prices on Get Your Guide .

Day trip from Bratislava to Spania Dolina

• Distance from Bratislava: 220 km (137 miles)
• Travel time: ~2 hours by car/bus or ~3.5 hours by train
• Best for: Nature, hiking, fresh air

One of the best places to visit in Slovakia , Spania Dolina (Špania Dolina) is a former mining village that offers visitors spectacular views and nature. Rarely visited by tourists outside of the country, it’s a bit of an unconventional Bratislava day trip and an amazing place to get away from the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet.

The most popular thing to do in Spania Dolina is to hike the trail that takes you around town. Along the way, you can see the houses that miners used to live in back in the 17th and 18th centuries.

For most of the hike you’ll be wandering inside a beautiful forest. The air is super fresh, and there are flowers and even some butterflies here and there. The whole thing takes around 1-2 hours and is very easy, even for beginners.

The main highlights of the hike are the magnificent viewpoints along the way. From here, you can see the entire town from above surrounded by gorgeous green rolling hills. It is truly breathtaking. Be sure to bring your best camera gear (such as your wide-angle lenses for the Sony a7III ) to best capture the picture-perfect view.

At the end of the hike, you can enjoy a mini mining exhibition at the cafe near the parking lot.

To get to Spania Dolina, you can either drive 2 hours from Bratislava or take a train, which takes 3.5 hours with a stop in Banska Bystrica. All in all, Spania Dolina is a true hidden gem that deserves way more attention than it gets.

By Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad

Guided option: Private day trip to Banska Stiavnica → Check prices on Viator .

Day trip from Bratislava to Trencin Castle

• Distance from Bratislava: 132 km (82 miles)
• Travel time: ~1.75 hours by car/bus
• Best for: History, castles, scenery

Located close to the Czech border on the gorgeous Vah river, the small city of Trencin (Trenčín) in western Slovakia was once the Roman legions’ northernmost outpost in Central Europe. Today it’s best known for being home to Slovakia’s third-largest fortification, Trencin Castle or Trenčiansky hrad, which dates back to the time of the Roman Empire. From its high rocky perch, the castle commands incredible views. It famously contains war inscriptions from 179 AD and a legendary 80-metre-deep well.

Below the fortification, Mariánsky hrad district and Trencin’s Town Monument Reserve showcase beautiful restored architecture and a number of important churches. The Nativity of the Virgin Mary church and its 16th-century covered staircase, the Neo-Baroque Piaristic Church of St. Francis Xaverský, and the Trencin Synagogue, built in 1913, are all must-sees. For a view of Trencin and the castle from a different perspective, climb the Town Tower.

Trencin comes alive in summer when the city hosts a number of live music events including Pohoda, the biggest music festival in Slovakia. Trains from Bratislava to Trencin depart frequently, taking just over an hour to reach Trencin Train Station. The castle is a short walk from there.

Guided option: Medieval Trencin and Bojnice Castle private full-day tour → Check prices on Get Your Guide .

Day trip from Bratislava to Trnava

• Distance from Bratislava: 57 km (35 miles)
• Travel time: ~45 minutes by car/bus
• Best for: Churches, art, wine

Just a short bus ride from Bratislava, the historic town of Trnava is the perfect size for a half-day trip. Sometimes called the ‘Slovak Rome’, Trnava is known for its high concentration of churches. St. Nicholas Basilica is debatably the most preeminent, dating back to 1380 and built in the Gothic style. From there, you can stroll along quaint Hlavná Street down the long line of pretty Baroque and Rococo facades.

Admire contemporary art from the region at the non-profit Jan Koniarek Gallery, and stop for a coffee at the Synagogue Cafe, set inside one of Trnava’s synagogues. Just around the corner, a second synagogue in distinctive Moorish-Byzantine style houses an art gallery. Finally, for a view, climb up to the observation deck at Trnava’s 16th-century City Tower.

Trnava sits on the edge of one of Slovakia’s lesser-known wine regions and is a great base for visiting local vineyards. Mrva & Stanko is a short taxi ride from the centre – visitors can enjoy a tour and wine tasting inside its historic underground brick cellars.

If you’re a true wine connoisseur , try to visit in September for the Open Wine Cellars Day. All of Trnava’s underground medieval wine cellars throw open their doors for this once-a-year event that showcases local winemaking traditions.

Day trip from Bratislava to Banska Stiavnica

• Distance from Bratislava: 175 km (109 miles)
• Travel time: ~2.25 hours by car
• Best for: History, architecture, scenery

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993, Banska Stiavnica (Banská Štiavnica) in central Slovakia has a long history tied to silver mining. Its completely preserved medieval old town makes it one of the finest places to visit in Slovakia for history and architecture.

First settled in the 3rd century BC, the town sits in a caldera depression made by a collapsed volcano. More than 60 reservoirs called tajchy built around Banska Stiavnica between the 15th and 18th centuries to supply energy to the mines are today used as recreational lakes.

To learn more about the town’s mining heritage, be sure to visit the mineralogical museum on Trinity Square. The open-air Slovak Mining Museum on the western edge of town offers tours of the 1.5-kilometre-long mines and tunnels. Visitors don a helmet and cloak and grab lanterns before heading deep into the mines for the immersive experience.

Guided option: Banska Stiavnica and Topolcianky private tour from Bratislava → Check prices on Viator .

Best international day trips from Bratislava

As well as being the gateway to Slovakia, Bratislava is an affordable and alternative base for exploring neighbouring countries. Austria, Czechia and Hungary are only a day trip away.

Day trip from Bratislava to Vienna, Austria

• Distance from Bratislava: 79 km (49 miles)
• Travel time: ~1 hour by train or ~1.5 hours by boat
• Best for: Architecture, culture, history

The Austrian capital of Vienna is among the most popular day trips from Bratislava. Given its close proximity and excellent rail connections, Vienna is a great option to tack onto the beginning or end of your trip.

While there is plenty to do in Vienna to keep you busy for more than a day, if a day is all you have, you can certainly check out the city’s highlights. Start with Schönbrunn Palace, the Belvedere and the Hofburg, some of Austria’s most famous landmarks. Catch a matinee show at the Vienna State Opera House or explore the many magical Christmas markets if you happen to be there during the holiday season.

Direct trains bring visitors to and from Bratislava multiple times a day. The ride takes just over an hour, or just under an hour if you opt to drive instead. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, why not take a boat on the Danube? This option only takes 1.5 hours and offers spectacular Danube views along the way.

By Jade from The Migrant Yogi

Guided option: Imperial Vienna private day trip from Bratislava → Check prices on Viator .

Day trip from Bratislava to Budapest, Hungary

• Distance from Bratislava: 200 km (124 miles)
• Travel time: ~2 hours by car/bus or ~3 hours by train
• Best for: Architecture, culture

Just 2 hours by car or slightly more by train, Budapest is a natural choice for a day trip from Bratislava. After all, Bratislava was, once upon a time, the capital of Hungary (1536 to 1783) – so why not also visit today’s capital?

Beautiful Budapest straddles the Danube river, with Pest on one side and Buda on the other. Both are gorgeous, but if you’re only in town for a day trip, you’ll have to ‘divide and conquer’.  There are plenty of touristy things to do as well as the opportunity to discover some of the hidden gems in Budapest . Do some research ahead of time to figure out what appeals to you most.

When you arrive, it’s a good idea to pick up a 24-hour travel card so you can use the extensive public transportation network. If arriving by train from Bratislava, from Keleti Railway station hop on Metro 2 (red line) and get off at Deak Ferenc Ter. You’ve arrived in one of the city’s loveliest squares, close to the Danube.

Take a stroll on Vaci utca all the way to the Great Market Hall. Why not pick up some souvenirs for home while you’re here? Smoked paprika goes well with everything. Take a ride on the Budapest Eye for a view, cross Liberty Bridge and climb Gellert Hill on the Buda side, all the way to the Citadella.

Wave hello to Buda Castle and then make your way back to the Pest side via the Chain Bridge. Pass by St. Stephen’s Basilica on the way to Deak Ferenc Ter, then hop on Metro 1 (yellow) and get off at Hosok tere (Heroes’ Square). Be sure to check out Vajdahunyad Castle nearby.

Tempted to stay longer? Here are the most charming Airbnbs in Budapest .

By Cris from LooknWalk

Day trip from Bratislava to Brno, Czechia

• Distance from Bratislava: 130 km (81 miles)
• Travel time: ~1.5 hours by train
• Best for: History, cuisine

The second-largest city in the Czech Republic (Czechia), Brno presents a perfect combination of history and modernity. You can find remarkable architecture, delicious food , beer and wine. Better still, it’s an easy day trip from Bratislava, taking only 1.5-2 hours with public transport.

Most of the city’s main attractions are within the walking distance of the historical centre. Highlights include the Špilberk Castle, a massive baroque citadel with extensive casemates, and the most iconic building in Brno, Petrov Cathedral. Another interesting place that should be on your list is St. James Ossuary, which is the second-largest limestone box of its kind in Europe.

Brno’s main square, Náměstí Svobody, is usually a place of vibrant markets and festivals. If you’re a fan of modern architecture, you shouldn’t miss Vila Tugendhat, a villa built in 1929-30 in the functionalist style and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are plenty of other things to do in Brno to fill a day or even more.

Getting to Brno is not complicated at all: there are a number of buses and trains departing from Bratislava. Trains leave from Bratislava Hlavná Stanica (the Main Train Station) and the journey takes around 1.5 hours. Buses leave from Bratislava Bus Station (Autobusová Stanica Nivy) and the journey takes 1.5-2 hours. Prices start from 5€.

By Adriana from Czech the World

Day trip from Bratislava to Lake Balaton, Hungary

• Distance from Bratislava: 170 km (106 miles)
• Travel time: ~2.5 hours by car/bus
• Best for: Scenery, outdoors, wine, charming small towns

Lake Balaton is the biggest lake in central Europe and is mainly known as a summer vacation spot for local Hungarians and tourists from neighbouring countries. The lake and its surrounding landscape were formed millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions. It’s a super-popular choice for a summer day trip from Bratislava or Budapest.

A day trip to Balaton has a little bit of everything: history, castles, outdoor activities, even wine tastings. Lake Balaton itself offers several activities including hiking in the hills, exploring nearby medieval castles, soaking in natural thermal springs, and even wine tastings. One of the best things to do is nothing – just kick back on one of Lake Balaton’s beach resorts.

Tihany peninsula is the cultural centre of Balaton. Here, you’ll find a small, charming town with authentic local shops and restaurants where you can sample local dishes such as langos . Don’t skip Tihany Castle for the most magnificent view  of Balaton Lake.

Badacsony is another notable spot on the shore of the lake. One of the most-visited wine regions in Hungary, it’s filled with small shops where visitors can experience a local wine tasting. It’s highly recommended to hike around Badacsony hill, an old volcanic hill with wonderful views of Lake Balaton and the surrounding Bakony mountains. Also worth visiting is the nearby, well-maintained Szigliget Castle.

The most convenient way to travel to Balaton Lake from Bratislava is by hiring a car. It’s around 170 km (2.5 hours) by road. Using public transport, the most convenient option is to transit through Hungary’s capital, Budapest. Public transport around Lake Balaton is easy thanks to the developed network of fast trains.

By Erki from Genem Travels

Day trip from Bratislava to Olomouc, Czechia

• Total travel time: ~ 2.5 hours by car/bus or ~3 hours by train
• Best for: Charming squares, Baroque architecture, cuisine

Olomouc is one of the prettiest cities in Czechia. Given its position in Moravia, not far from the border with Slovakia, it can be easily visited on a day trip from Bratislava. There is a direct Flixbus route between the cities with a travel time of around 2.5 hours. If travelling by train, you need to make one stopover. The journey takes 3-3.5 hours.

Most people visit Olomouc for its historical centre. The two main squares attract the most attention with their breathtaking sights – e.g. the UNESCO-listed Holy Trinity Column and City Hall with its astronomical clock. The whole city centre is beautiful and picturesque. A series of Baroque fountains are scattered around the place, and wonderful churches abound too. You can stroll around and enjoy the hidden alleys – with most passing by historic university buildings since Olomouc is home to the second-oldest university in the country.

You can eat well in Olomouc, too. While a number of modern bistros and cafes have sprung up, you can still find typical Czech food at the many local restaurants. One regional specialty is a ripened cheese called tvarůžky or syrečky . Its smell is quite strong, but when incorporated into a meal – such as fried cheese or into a garlic soup – it’s lovely.

Try it at any of these traditional Czech restaurants: Restaurant U Mořice, Hanácká hospoda, Drápal or Moritz Microbrewery. Having a Czech beer with your meal is a must, but of course that goes without saying!

By Veronika from Travel Geekery

Day trip from Bratislava to Mikulov, Czechia

• Distance from Bratislava: 104 km (65 miles)
• Total travel time: ~1 hour by car/bus or ~3 hours by train & bus via Vienna
• Best for: Charming Old Town, markets, wine

Mikulov is a gorgeous preserved town located in the South Moravian region of Czechia. This area is Czechia’s very own wine country, and conveniently, you’ll find many wineries and vineyards within the town itself.

One of the most notable landmarks in Mikulov is Mikulov Castle – which you’ll no doubt see dominating the skyline as soon as you arrive. A visit to Mikulov should absolutely include a visit to the castle and the castle grounds. Delve into the castle’s interior for an insight into its fascinating history, which dates back to 1249.

Fall in love with Mikulov by strolling through the Old Town, which is characterised by colourful historic buildings and cute cafes . There is a wonderful outdoor market occupying the main square, where you’ll find regional delicacies including locally produced cheese, cured meats and beer. Also be sure to hike up Svatý Kopeček, ‘Holy Hill’, for the best views of Mikulov, especially at sunset .

If you’d like to end your perfect day trip by trying the local wine, you don’t have to go far. Head to Vinotéka Mikulov , a popular wine bar with a terrace in the Old Town.

The fastest route to Mikulov is by car, taking around 1 hour and 15 minutes one-way. It’s possible to reach Mikulov by taking a number of buses and trains, transiting through Vienna. This route takes around 3 hours.

By Jacqueline from Your Travel Flamingo

Day trip from Bratislava to Gyor, Hungary

• Distance from Bratislava: 80 km (50 miles)
• Travel time: ~1 hour by car/bus or train
• Best for: Baroque architecture

The Danube river city of Gyor (Győr) can be reached in under an hour from Bratislava. One of the most beautiful places in Hungary , it boasts hundreds of heritage buildings, earning it the nickname the ‘pearl of Baroque architecture’.

Petite and easy to navigate, Gyor is perfect for a self-guided walking tour. Must-sees include the Gyor Cathedral (Nagyboldogasszony-székesegyház), a Romanesque church that dates back to the 14-15th centuries, and Bécsi kapu Square, considered one of the best examples of a Baroque square in the country.

Wander the neatly gridded old town and get lost in the lanes of pastel-coloured facades. Smaller churches and stately palaces wait around every corner, eventually bringing you to the magnificent Town Hall, designed by Neo-Baroque architect Hubner Jeno in the late 19th century.

Gyor can be reached in around 60 minutes from Bratislava by either bus or train. If you’re travelling between Budapest and Slovakia, it’s an ideal place to stop for a few hours to stretch your legs.

Day trip from Bratislava to Sopron, Hungary

• Distance from Bratislava: 87 km (54 miles)
• Travel time: ~1.5 hours by car/bus or ~2 hours by train via Gyor
• Best for: Roman history, Baroque architecture

The old town centre of Sopron, Hungary sits in the heart of Europe and is an easy day trip from Bratislava. Located on an isthmus of land in Western Hungary, Sopron is a medieval village that sits atop an ancient Roman town called Scarbantia. The excavations are beside the old town centre. Many of the other best sites in Sopron are located within a short walk of the Roman Forum.

The old town square ( Fő tér ) is surrounded by medieval and Baroque buildings. In the middle of the square is the Holy Trinity statue, a memorial for those who died in Sopron of the Black Death.

Dotted around the square is the City Hall (Eggenberg House) as well as two important buildings, Storno-ház and Fabricius-ház. Storno-ház houses several museums. If you’re lucky to be here during the Christmas season, there is a small Christmas market in the square out front. Also on the main square, the Goat Church is a Gothic church with a Baroque interior.

But the building most associated with Sopron is the 58-metre-high Firewatch Tower ( Tűztorony ). It is the focal point of the town and has light displays during festival times .

Sopron’s sizable Croatian population means there are some great Croatian pubs as well as lovely Hungarian cafes around the central squares. From Bratislava, it takes just over an hour to drive to Sopron, or two hours by train via Gyor.

By Monique from Trip Anthropologist

How to plan a Bratislava day trip

Public transport (train & bus).

Slovakia has an efficient and affordable intercity public transport network, with trains and coaches on hand to whisk you from Bratislava to any corner of the country.

Rail connections with neighbouring countries makes this the perfect part of Europe for train travel . In as little as 1-2 hours you can reach any of the neighbouring capitals by train, then connect to smaller cities and villages from there.

• Trains in Slovakia: Check times & purchase tickets online via Slovak Railways
• Buses in Slovakia: Search routes & schedules on imhd.sk

Hiring a car in Slovakia

For greater flexibility, considering hiring a car in Bratislava and embarking on a day trip by road. Affordable one-day rentals can be found on Discover Cars .

Guided day trips from Bratislava

If you prefer to travel with a guide, or if you want to visit a further-flung destination in Slovakia that requires private transport, consider joining a guided day tour from Bratislava. There are plenty of offerings for every budget and special interest, with tours ranging from short half-day excursions to full-day trips across the country.

• Search Bratislava day tours on Viator
• Browse the best itineraries on Get Your Guide

Where to stay in Bratislava

• Budget: Wild Elephants Hostel
• Mid-range: Apart Hotel VIRGO
• Boutique: LOFT Hotel
• Apartment: Opera Suite by Zoom Apartments
• High-end: Roset Hotel & Residence

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17 Great Day Trips from Bratislava, Slovakia

Last Updated on 20/05/2024 by kami

Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia is often visited as a day trip from Vienna . And while at first, it seems that the city doesn’t have all that many attractions, there are actually plenty of things to do in Bratislava and if you decide to spend a bit more time there you will see what a great city it actually can be.

It took me a few trips to Bratislava until I finally realized the real value of the place and now it is among the cities I like returning to (but still, Kosice is my all-time favorite destination in Slovakia). If you decide to give Bratislava a chance you might be surprised too what an interesting city it can be and that it offers more than it seems at first.

And while you are there, why not going on some day trips from Bratislava? The city can serve as a great base to visit some of the best places to visit in Slovakia as well as some great destinations in three neighboring countries – Austria, the Czech Republic , and Hungary.

Planning a trip to Bratislava?

Here are the highly-rated hotels, tours, and services recommended for your trip:

Accomodation:

• Metropolitan Star Apart Hotel (9.1/10)
• Apart Hotel VIRGO (9.1/10)
• BEIGLI Hotel & Garden (9.0/10)

Tours and activities:

• Private Bratislava Grand City Tour
• Bratislava Post-Communism Tour
• Bratislava Foodie Tour

Internet: Stay connected with Airalo eSim card – click here to get yours!

Airport Transfer: Use Welcome Pickups for a smooth ride from the airport to your accommodation in Bratislava Click here to book the airport transfer.

Insurance: Get insured for your trip to Slovakia with SafetyWing

Car rental: Compare prices and find the best deals on rental cars in Slovakia on Discover Cars .

Table of Contents

Day trips from Bratislava

So, without any further ado, here is the list of best Bratislava day trips. I asked a few fellow bloggers to contribute too so you will have even more options to choose from.

Day trips from Bratislava within Slovakia

Little carpathian wine route.

Not many people know that Bratislava and its surrounding is a wine destination but this area is a perfect place for all the wine lovers.

The Little Carpathian Wine Route goes from Bratislava to Trnava through a few picturesque and charming royal towns, such as Svätý Jur, Pezinok, or Modra. In each of them, you will find small, family-owned wine cellars where you can learn more about the local production and taste wines.

If you come to the area at the right time you can attend wine festivals that are usually accompanied by numerous events. The most popular festival is Wine Cellars Open Day, happening twice a year, in May and November. When you purchase the ticket you also get the wine glass and with it you can visit as many wine cellars as you want, trying local products in each of them – you can choose from over a hundred wines!

But even outside of the festival season this is a perfect area to visit, not only for wine lovers, and due to its proximity to the capital Little Carpathian makes a perfect option for a Bratislava day trip. Just make sure to have an assigned driver with you if you plan to enjoy local drinks!

Here are some of the available day trips from Bratislava to Little Carpathian Wine Route:

• Wine Tasting in Modra, Slovakia
• Bratislava: 6-Hour Carpathian Wine Tour and Tasting
• Little Carpathian Wine Tour
• Private Tour of Small Carpathian Wine Route with The Red Stone Castle
• Private Wine Tour to Small Carpathians

Devin Castle

Recommended by Anjali Wadhwa from Cheerful Trails

Perched on a rugged hilltop, Devin Castle is a 9th-century castle that overlooks the seamless merging of the Danube and Morava rivers. While the surrounding views of the castle are spectacular, the castle itself is an interesting archaeological site that holds a significant history.

Devin castle served as a military refuge and defense for many empires until it was blown up by Napoleon’s army in 1809. The exhibition in the castle showcases many artifacts and sculptures through which visitors can learn a lot about ancient times. Visitors can also walk through the ruins of many courtyards and walls of the Devin castle.

If you are looking for some adventure, near the castle there are many hiking and cycling trails along the Danube river. The mesmerizing lush green gardens around the castle are a good spot to spend a relaxing time.

The most convenient way to reach Devin Castle from Bratislava is by getting on the public bus number 29 from Most SNP which is a journey of 30 minutes to the stop, Štrbská, Hrad Devín. You will have to take a short walk from the stop to Devin Castle.

For ease, you can also rent a cab that would take you to the entrance of the castle or go for a tour – click here for details.

The Abandoned Missile Base at Devínska Kobyla

Recommended by Iris from Mind of a Hitchhiker

If you like urban exploring and the outdoors, a visit to Devínska Kobyla will be the best day trip from Bratislava you can gift yourself. The highest peak of Bratislava lies 10 kilometers northwest of the Staré Mesto. Below this small forested mountain lies the confluence of the Danube and Morava rivers—a beautiful sight in itself.

Opposite these rivers lies Austria, which means that this marked the Iron Curtain back when Czechoslovakia was a satellite state of the Soviet Union. Of course, such a strategic point on the outer border was very useful. So the military built a missile base atop Devínska Kobyla with their rockets armed and aimed at the capitalist west.

Today, the missiles are gone and the site lies abandoned. With caution and a camera, it’s possible to stand inside one of the bunkers that held a missile. Visit the offices and imagine soldiers passing the time waiting for the Cold War to turn hot.

Trnava is one of the easiest day trips from Bratislava. The city is only half an hour away by train from the capital and with frequent connections you can easily go to see this interesting city.

Trnava is often called “the Little Rome” because of its numerous towers and churches that you can see there. The city was first mentioned in 1211 and was the first place in Slovakia that was granted the right of the free royal town.

Today in Trnava you can admire numerous historical monuments and buildings as well as one of the longest remaining defending walls in Europe. From the town tower, you can admire a beautiful panorama of the city and beyond. Overall Trnava is one of those charming Central European cities that don’t get as much attention as they should.

Once you are done with all the sightseeing you should head for a coffee to one of the most unique cafes you will ever see – it is located in the synagogue and is simply amazing. That already is a good reason to visit Trnava!

You can visit Trnava with the tour from Bratislava – click here for details.

Read more about Trnava in my article “Beautiful Trnava, Slovakia – a Perfect Day Trip from Bratislava”

• Are you planning a trip to Slovakia? Be sure to join my Facebook group about traveling in Central Europe and be part of the amazing community of like-minded travelers. Click here for the access!
• Don’t want to miss new articles? Sign up to the monthly newsletter to receive all the updates to your mailbox!

Recommended by Kristine from Wanderlust Designers

Piešťany is a famous spa town located 80 km from Bratislava. It’s easily reachable by frequent train connections from Bratislava (about one-hour travel time) or by car (45 minutes).

A great place to start your day is the spa part of Piešťany – the Spa Island. As you approach the Colonnade Bridge leading to it, say hi to the statue of a man breaking his crutch – the symbol of the spa.

While strolling through the island, keep your eyes open to spot various places of interest, such as a huge aviary or various sources of healing thermal water. There are ten different sources in Piešťany and the water comes from as deep as 2000 meters below ground. There’s even a tap on the island where you can try the water!

There’s more to Piešťany than just the spa – its center, though small, is quite lively. It’s situated around Winterova street and offers lots of cafes, ice-cream shops (try Monalisa) and restaurants.

Trencin is located some 130 km north of Bratislava, on the main railway line, so getting there is really easy. The city has a long and interesting history, the first settlement was located here already in the 4th century BC.

The biggest attraction of Trencin is the medieval royal castle, one of the largest castles in Slovakia. Already in the 11th century, it served as a royal castle and over the years it was the seat of noble families. Also in medieval times, the town developed under the castle and today it is a really lovely area to wander around.

When exploring Trencin, go to the Town Tower for the best views of the city. You can also see the impressive synagogue from the beginning of the 20th century – if you are lucky you can see it inside too, it’s open only a few times per year!

You can visit Trencin (together with Bojnice castle) on the tour departing from Bratislava – click here for details.

Read more about Trencin in my article “Trencin, Slovakia – More than the Impressive Castle” .

Čičmany, a small village located some 170 km north of Bratislava, is one of the most unique places to visit in Slovakia. What makes it so special are the original log houses with the typical white ornamentation that looks really impressive.

The decorative ornaments were added to the buildings for practical reasons, to protect the logs from the sun rays but the result is very beautiful. There are 136 historical houses Čičmany (now all of them are protected monuments) and each of them is just the prettiest, however the most valuable ones are Radenov dom and the neighboring Gregorov dom.

The village looks unreal with all the decorations and traditional buildings around. If you are looking for an unusual place to visit as a day trip from Bratislava, Čičmany seems like a perfect choice.

Bojnice Castle

Recommended by Trijit Mallick from BudgetTravelBuff

If you love castles and want to explore Slovakia further, you have to visit the romantic Bojnice Chateau with its picturesque park. This is a perfect place for history buffs and nature lovers who love to enjoy the historic medieval atmosphere. Standing on a travertine hill over the Bojnice town, Bojnice Castle is one of the oldest and most beautiful cultural sites in Slovakia.

The castle boasts a museum where you can see various types of medieval tools of destruction like swords, maces, halberds, and shining suits of armor. Another room features handpainted Turkish tiles, oil portraits, and a nice collection of painted Chinese vases.

After visiting the castle you can explore the nearby countryside villages like Cicmany and Trencin. Both are unique, spectacular, and worth visit. There is another beautiful castle named Trencin Castle situated on the top of a steep rock.

This 19th-century fairy-tale castle is located 184km northeast of Bratislava. Being one of the cheapest European countries , the transportation cost is very affordable. Both, bus and train services are available from the capital city to Bojnice and it takes around 3-3.5 hours to reach Prievidza.

You can also visit Bojnice Castle with a tour , here are the recommended options:

• Bratislava Day trip to Bojnice Castle and Cicmany Village
• Explore Trenčín Castle and Bojnice Castle Tour – Bratislava

Banska Stiavnica

Banska Stiavnica is probably the prettiest and most charming town you can visit in Slovakia and it’s definitely worth a 2-hour drive from Bratislava. You can also reach it by public transport but it would take much longer hence it is not recommended. Tours are also available.

The UNESCO-listed town is one of the oldest and the most important historical mining towns in Europe, dating back to the Middle Ages. Hidden in the valley and surrounded by gently rolling hills, Banska Stiavnica looks like taken straight from the fairy tale. Winding, cobbled lanes, colorful houses, and churches towering above the city make it look very picturesque and a bit unreal.

You can combine visiting Banska Stiavnica with enjoying the nature around. It takes only a short walk from the center to find numerous hiking opportunities where, during your walks, you can stumble across some old mining remnants on the hills around. If the weather is clear you can admire a stunning view of Central Slovakia or even see the Tatra Mountains or Kekes – the highest peak in Hungary.

Read more about Banska Stiavnica in my article “Banska Stiavnica – one of the most beautiful towns in Europe”.

If you would like to go for a tour from Bratislava to Banska Stiavnica here are the options:

• Private Day Trip to Banska Stiavnica Unesco Site
• Banska Stiavnica from Bratislava, UNESCO Day Tour
• Private Tour: Banska Stiavnica and Topolcianky Day Trip from Bratislava

Banska Bystrica

Recommended by Erki from GENEM Travels

Banska Bystrica lies in the center of Slovakia, right below the Low-Tatra mountain range.

The main attraction in Slovak’s sixth-largest city is the main square. The Slovak National Uprising Square (SNP Square) is filled with beautiful colorful architectural buildings, historical monuments, fountains, and many restaurants and cafes. In the same square, the most prominent building is the Clock Tower. Not so far away from the square is the City Castle.

Another eye-catching concrete bowl-shaped building in the city is the SNP Museum. There you will learn the history of the Slovak National Uprising army’s importance during the II World War.

Banska Bystrica would be an ideal day trip option to see a bit different Slovakia. A city with rich culture, history, medieval architecture, or just having a nice place to stroll around and having a meal in one of the SNP square restaurants.

You can reach Banska Bystrica from Bratislava by public transport, both buses and trains are available.

Read more about Banska Bystrica in my article “Banska Bystrica, Slovakia – the Former Royal Town” .

Špania Dolina

Recommended by Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad

Nestled between hills in Central Slovakia is the former mining town of Špania Dolina, and though it is largely ignored by international tourists, it’s a true hidden gem that definitely deserves a day trip from Bratislava.

The most convenient way to get to Špania Dolina is to drive for 2 hours from Bratislava. Public transportation is possible too, but bear in mind that a train journey would take over 3.5 hours one way, with a transit stop in between as well.

Špania Dolina is home to tons of scenic hiking trails. At the beginning of these trails, you’ll get to see parts of the village, including the houses that miners used to live in. You’ll then come across stunning forest scenery complete with flowers and butterflies.

The highlight of the hike is undoubtedly the lookout point where you’ll get a postcard-worthy view of the church and the surrounding hills. Be sure to bring the best photography gear for this breathtaking view, such as some of these amazing Nikon D3100 lenses .

Day trips from Bratislava to Austria

Vienna, the stunning capital of Austria, is located only one hour away from Bratislava and makes such a perfect day trip option. While most people choose to visit Bratislava as a day trip from Vienna you can go in a reverse direction. And sure, Vienna has so many attractions that it’s better to spend there more time but even if you only have one day in Vienna you can see all the highlights and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the majestic city.

Start in the center of the town, surrounded by Ring Road. In the very heart of it, you will find Stephansplatz with the magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral – be sure to visit it inside too! From there you can walk on either Kartnerstrasse – the main shopping street in this area or Graben – the street with stunning houses along the way.

Your next stop should be Hofburg Palace, the former imperial residence that in the past used to be home to the rulers of the country. From Hofburg, it’s a short walk to Ring Road with all its attractions and some of the most important buildings in Vienna: the Opera House, the Parliament, the State Theater, the Town Hall or the University – just to name a few.

Next go to Karlsplatz with beautiful Karskirche and some of the most amazing art-nouveau buildings you can find in Vienna. Your last stop should be Schönbrunn Palace where famous Empress Sissi used to live. Attached to the beautiful palace you will find a large and pleasant park – from its upper parts you can admire a really lovely view of the city.

During your Vienna sightseeing be sure to stop in one of the traditional coffee houses Vienna is famous for.

You can get from Bratislava to Vienna by train, bus or boat – I recommend taking the train as it’s very easy and efficient. You can use public transport for getting around the city, as soon as you arrive in Vienna buy a daily ticket as this will be your best friend when discovering the capital of Austria.

You can also visit Vienna on a tour – click here for details.

Day trips from Bratislava to the Czech Republic

Brno , the second-largest city in the Czech Republic, is located around 130 km away from Bratislava but you can easily get there by train. There are a few connections per day between these two cities (at least every 2 hours) and the journey takes around 1,5 hours. Once you reach Brno you can start your sightseeing right away as the Old Town is only a few steps away from the train station and the list of things to do in Brno is really long.

Brno is one of these typical Central European cities with beautiful architecture from the turn of the 19th and 20th century and wandering around is a real pleasure. Along the way, you will find plenty of attractions, such as the beautiful cathedral, old town hall, or quirky Brno astronomical clock in a very distinctive shape. A bit outside of the center you should head to the Špilberk Castle from where you can admire a beautiful panorama of the city.

Brno is also home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Villa Tugendhat. The house built in 1928-1930 is a masterpiece of modernist and functionalist architecture and everyone who appreciate good design should visit it. It is possible to see the interior of the villa but book the tickets in advance as they sell out very quickly.

You can read more about Brno in my articles:

• 20 Great Things to Do in Brno, Czech Republic
• “Visit Brno – a perfect Central European city”.

If you would like to see Brno with a guide here are some local tours you might want to join:

• Brno Historical Walking Tour
• Brno: Historic Downtown Walking Tour
• Brno Private Walking Tour

Recommended by Megs from “Packing up the Pieces”

Mikulov is an adorable village nestled among the rolling hills of the South Moravian Wine Region. Even though Mikulov is located in the nearby Czech Republic, it’s an easy day trip from Bratislava. Multiple trains connect the two destinations via a transfer in Breclav; however, it’s best to rent a car. The scenic drive takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, but there are a few worthwhile destinations to see en-route.

Mikulov is found in the Czech Republic’s leading wine-producing area, so visit the village’s picturesque chateau, or sample a glass from an inviting wine bar. With its pristine location in the Palava Protected Landscape Area, appreciate the views from “Goat Hill.” Behind the charming main plaza, climb up to “Holy Hill,” and find a small chapel and the most stunning views of Mikulov.

Save some time to visit the nearby villages of Valtice and Lednice . Valtice boasts a beautiful palace where it’s possible to sip wine from its vineyards at the Old Gatehouse. In Lednice, tour the lovely Renaissance-style palace, or wander through the majestic gardens. Both places are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Mikulov makes a spectacular day trip from Bratislava, so discover one of the Czech Republic’s best-kept secrets.

Read more about Mikulov in my article “Visit Mikulov, Czech Republic – a Picturesque Gem” .

Punkva Cave

Recommended by Raluca from Travel With A Spin

Punkva Cave is part of the Moravian complex, the largest karst area in Central Europe. In order to get there from Bratislava, you have to head first to Brno and drive 30km more in the north-east direction. At the entrance, there’s a huge parking lot and a tourist information center. Public transport is also available but takes far longer.

Most people choose to visit Punkva Cave , instead of the other four caverns in the complex, because of the interesting experience of an underground tour partially done by boat.

Here is how it works. You enter the cave accompanied by a guide that will show you beautiful formations, tell stories and take you to the base of the Macocha Abyss. That spot is like a totally different world, full of greenery and lush vegetation.

After that, the group will be loaded on boats and the last half of the tour will be done on the water. Passing through narrow tunnels and spacious halls, you’ll follow the underground stream as it finds its way out of the cave.

Day trips from Bratislava to Hungary

Budapest is another capital that you can easily visit as a day trip from Bratislava and just like in Vienna, you can actually see a lot in one day only. The best way to get from Bratislava to Budapest is by train (the journey takes a bit over 2 hours) but buses are also available though they take a bit longer, around 3 hours. I recommend buying a day ticket for public transport – you will need it when sightseeing in Budapest.

Start your day in Budapest on the Buda side of the city where you can visit the beautiful Fishermen’s Bastion from where you can admire the stunning panorama of the other side of the Danube river, with the famous Parliament Building right in front of you.

Continue over the charing streets of Buda to the Royal Castle and then take the funicular to the picturesque Chain Bridge. Once you cross the Danube you will see how different this side of the city is. You will be surrounded by amazing magnificent buildings, a great testimony to the grand past of Budapest.

You can go up to the top of St. Stephen’s Basilica to look at the city from above and see it from another perspective. The Pest side of the city offers many attractions too – you can walk the most representative street in Budapest – Andrassy, or sit down for a drink in one of the famous ruined bars.

And if you still have time go and relax a bit in beautiful baths – the most popular one is Széchenyi but the one in the Gellert Hotel isn’t bad either.

Read more about Budapest in my articles:

• 50 pictures that will make you want to visit Budapest
• 7 solid reasons to visit Budapest, Hungary

Located only an hour away from Bratislava, Gyor makes a perfect day trip if you would like to visit Hungary but don’t necessarily want to go all the way to Budapest. Gyor was first inhabited in the 5th century BC and over the years was one of the most important places in the region, with a big historical value to Hungary.

Today this is a vibrant student city with plenty of attractions. The oldest buildings in Gyor date back to the 13th century (like the dwelling tower) but most of the architecture was made in a beautiful Baroque style. This is yet another unknown gem of Central Europe and if you are in the area you should definitely visit Gyor.

The easiest way to get here from Bratislava is by car but there are also direct buses connecting these two cities.

Read more about Gyor in my article “Gyor, Hungary – the Baroque Jewel on the Danube” .

Map of Bratislava day trips destinations

To give you a better orientation on where all these great places are located, here is the map with all of them.

Further reading

I published many articles about Slovakia that you might find useful when planning your trip there. Here are some of them:

• 35 Amazing Places to Visit in Slovakia
• 13 Best Things to Do in Slovakia
• The ultimate list of things to do in Bratislava, Slovakia
• 30 Great Things to do in Kosice, Slovakia
• A Complete Guide to Visiting Spis Castle, Slovakia
• Visit Nitra – the Oldest City in Slovakia
• Visit Levoca – the UNESCO gem in Slovakia

If you are looking for articles about a specific destination – check out the map with all the articles I’ve published (and their locations). You can also join my Facebook group about traveling in Central Europe and ask your questions there.

Travel Resources

Below you can find the brands I trust and use when planning trips:

• You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Bratislava
• I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Viator or Get Your Guide .
• To always stay connected I use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
• For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go or Omio
• Looking for the airport pickup ? Check Welcome Pickups!
• Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Slovakia here.
• If you plan to rent a car during your trip to Slovakia check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals
• Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Slovakia too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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Hello, I’m from Wrocław. Just like you, I love travelling and taking pictures of the places and the people. I just want to thank you for your blog and appreciate that you continue to write your articles with many beautiful pictures in spite of the pandemic when travelling is hard. I’ll have been always looking forward to more many places you’ll publish in the future. Please take care!

Thank you, that’s so kind of you! All the best!

Nice list! I have been to many of these places. I would also recommend some other daytrips. Nitra has a nice calvary and castle. Beckov is a fortress that can be accessed from the higway Bratislava Žilina. Šaštin with a pilgrimage church. Skalica with historical center. Castle Lednice and Valtice in Czechia. It is on Unesco world heritage list. Eisenstadt in Austria, city of Joseph Haydn. Castle Fertod in Hungary, near city Sopron. Plus many more towns and villages.

Thanks! I’ve had some of these on my list for the next time I visit Bratislava but now I added a few more of your recommendations :)

Bryson Fico

Great destinations for the capitol. The town of Banska Stiavnica is beautiful and the public baths are unique. Slovakia and Central Europe look more enticing than Western Europe – better priced too.

Indeed! I really enjoyed Banska Stiavnica too, it is such a gem!

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17 Perfect day trips from Bratislava, Slovakia (+ how to get there)

• by Martina Kokesova
• April 20, 2023 May 5, 2024

Your trip to Bratislava should not end there. Many tourists who travel to Slovakia stay only in its capital. Turns out they do not know there are many beautiful places nearby. There are endless opportunities for perfect day trips from Bratislava . Experience Slovakian life beyond its capital , and explore its pretty little towns , castles and gorgeous mountains . We will give you a taste of what Slovakia has to offer. Here are 17 of the best day trips you need to know about.

Do not miss a chance to see more of Slovakia – many beautiful places are just a train ride away (like this UNESCO site).

17 perfect day trips from Bratislava

Do two days in Bratislava and tear yourself away from Slovakia’s biggest city. Day trips from Slovakia’s capital  offer a welcome break for everyone seeking a change of scenery and pace. Some of the trips are just short journeys away. So, get inspired for your next adventure(s).

Bojnice Castle

The best day trips from Bratislava in Slovakia

Slovakia has beautiful castles, mountains, numerous cultural attractions and 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites . Check out our list and pick your favourite – some day trips are perfect for a romantic weekend away. Here are the best day trips from Bratislava within Slovakia you need to know about.

1. Devin Castle

Strategic location on the cliff looking on both rivers was the ideal place to build Devin Castle.

One of the easiest day trips from Bratislava is to Devin Castle , which you can find only 12 km away. Devin Castle is one of the oldest Slovak castles and is a must-see attraction in the country. This iconic fortress has witnessed numerous battles throughout its ages.

You are right to think that Devin Castle overlooks the Danube River and the border between Slovakia and Austria. There is also the Morava River. It empties into the Danube River and serves as the border between Slovakia and Czechia. Maybe you do not know, but those two rivers were once the Iron Curtain dividing capitalist and communist Europe.

Even though the castle is in ruins, this romantic landmark is well worth a visit. Devin Castle has a long history, stretching back to prehistoric times. The oldest settlement in Devin dates back to the Early Stone Age (about 5000 – 4000 BC). This site was also once a part of the fortification system , which was a borderline of the Roman Empire .

The castle also remembers the Great Moravia and later was a part of the border fortresses of the Kingdom of Hungary . Today Devin Castle is one of the most famous symbols of Slovak national history.

DID YOU KNOW?

Prince Rastislav built Devin Castle on the site of the kingdom of Great Moravia in the 9th century.

Devin Castle is one of the best day trips from Bratislava because you can learn about the rich history of Slovakia and the surrounding area . The observation platform of the castle also has gorgeous views of the countryside. There are also many hiking and cycling trails along the river, which offer beautiful views. Because of that, visiting Devin Castle is one of the best things to do in Bratislava .

GOOD TO KNOW:

DISTANCE FROM SLOVAKIA’S CAPITAL : approximately 12 km (7.4 miles)

BEST FOR : history and views, a perfect half-day trip from the capital

HOW TO GET THERE :

To get to Devin Castle, take bus number 29 from Most SNP stop in the city centre. The journey to Devin Castle will take you about 30 minutes . Get off at the stop Štrbská, Hrad Devín and take a short walk to the castle.

Alternatively, arrive by car or take a boat to Devin Castle during the summer. However, you should know that the journey upstream lasts 90 minutes. Hence, take only the boat on the way back.

Trnava is one of Slovakia’s underrated cities, so there is no better time to give it a go. This charming city is overshadowed by places like Bojnice or Kosice. However, Trnava is well worth a visit because it is one of the oldest towns in the country . In fact, Trnava was the first town in current Slovakia . It got the title of the royal town in the 13th century and won the right to build ramparts.

Today Trnava is beautifully preserved and has numerous historical monuments. Many call it “the Little Rome” or Slovak Rome because it has the highest concentration of churches and towers in Slovakia .

What to see in Trnava

One of the highlights is the Gothic-Baroque style Basilica of St Nicolas from the 14th century. The oldest locals still call this church with narrow windows  Hrubý (rough).  The Basilica of St Nicolas is a famous pilgrimage site . It is a part of the Marian Way, which crosses Slovakia. Thanks to Pope Benedict XVI this church has a new title – basilica minor . When inside, find a painting of the Virgin Mary in the Baroque chapel of the basilica. This picture of the Virgin Mary wept tears of blood in the past when the Turks were raiding the surroundings of Trnava.

Also, when you leave the church, take a look at the highest point of the church’s tower. One of the copper balls (on the left) has the relics of saints and documents from the 17th and 19th centuries. The locals left them hidden in the tower as messages to further generations.

Do not forget to check out the famous city walls , which were once 3 km long. Trnava’s defensive walls belong to one of the best-preserved walls in Slovakia . The locals used around 20 million bricks to build Trnava’s ramparts. These massive fortifications protected the town from enemies until the 15th century. You can still see 2/3 of the circuit with several bastions and one city gate.

There is also the Town Tower , which was once the highest building in the town. The Town Tower protected Trnava from enemies – guards had an excellent view of the surrounding land from it. 143 steps will bring you to the top of the gallery of the Trnava city tower and enjoy beautiful views .

Afterwards, stop for a coffee at the Synagogue Café . It has a trendy café with an original interior inside of the synagogue from the 19th century.

In the 16th century , Trnava flourished the most. The Archbishop of Esztergom moved to Trnava when the Turks occupied Esztergom. After that the town became the religious and cultural centre of the Kingdom of Hungary for almost 300 years.

• Visit Trnava in the middle of September when the town hosts the Trnava Jarmok . It is a traditional fair that dates back to the Middle Ages .
• Don’t forget to visit the local vineyards and enjoy a tour and wine tasting in the historic underground brick cellars . Trnava lies on the edge of one of Slovakia’s wine regions – Mrva & Stanko vineyard is only a short taxi ride from the centre.

If you have spare time, explore the preserved Cerveny Kamen Castle (Red Stone Castle). It lies less than 30 minutes away from Trnava by car. This 13th-century fortress was a part of the chain of the Kingdom of Hungary’s frontier defence castles . It houses exhibits of historical furniture and period housing of the noble families in Slovakia. You can also see historical weapons and underground cellars.

DISTANCE FROM BRATISLAVA: 57 km (35 miles)

BEST FOR : Churches, wine, a perfect half-day trip from Bratislava

HOW TO GET THERE:

Getting to Trnava from Slovak’s capital is easy, and you also have numerous options. Driving is the most flexible option – it takes about 40 minutes from the old town.

Trnava is also only half an hour away by train. Trains run frequently from the capital to Trnava, and the train will drop you in Trnava in 1 hour . There are also direct buses to Trnava, but we recommend taking the train. It is cheaper, and you will not end up stuck in traffic.

Bojnice is definitely worth considering for a day trip  if you want to take a trip back in time and feel like royalty for a day. This small town, located in the centre of Slovakia, is most famous for its gorgeous Bojnice Castle. If you do not know, romantic Bojnice Castle is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved castles in the country . Many people say it is a fairy tale castle because it has romantic architecture and a beautiful park. Bojnice Castle has many secrets , and its history dates back to the medieval period.

The charming town of Bojnice has other attractions, such as an observatory tower , thermal springs and the largest zoo in the country . Bojnice hosts numerous cultural events and festivals inspired by fairy tales and legends.

DISTANCE FROM BRATISLAVA: 180 km (112 miles)

BEST FOR: castles, history, scenic views, relaxation and wellness

Even though you do not have direct public transport here, Bojnice is one of the best day trips from Slovakia’s capital. Take a train from Bratislava to Trencin and then catch a bus to Prievidza, where you need to catch another bus to Bojnice. Your best option is to travel by car from the capital. This way, you will get to Bojnice by car in about two hours.

Pair you trip to Bojnice with Čičmany, Trencin or Banska Stiavnica

READ MORE ABOUT BOJNICE:

After exploring Bratislava’s busy streets and numerous attractions, enjoy breathing the fresh air of the countryside in Čičmany. The small village of Čičmany , located in the middle of nature, is one of the most unique places to visit in Slovakia . If you do not know, this pretty village is famous for painting old wooden houses. The tradition of painting various ornaments on houses started hundreds of years ago. White geometric patterns on log houses are popular patterns on folk costumes and textiles.

One of the reasons why Čičmany is one of our favourite day trips from Bratislava is that this village allows you to see an authentic rural lifestyle in Slovakia . Čičmany has only a small population, and the locals still practise traditional crafts and maintain their unique cultural heritage . Also, this pretty village with narrow streets is one of the most distinctive examples of folk architecture in Slovakia .

You should know there was a big fire in Čičmany around 100 years ago, and many of the original houses burned down. Today you can admire about 100 original houses – the most beautiful are the Radenov Dom and the neighbouring Gregorov Dom .

GOOD TO KNOW: 

DISTANCE FROM BRATISLAVA: 175 km from the capital (108 miles)

BEST FOR: folk architecture, authentic rural experience and scenery

The easiest way to get to Čičmany is to drive a car, as there are no direct connections with the capital. It will take you about two hours to get to Čičmany from Slovakia’s capital. Afterwards, pair Čičmany with nearby Bojnice or Trencin and Beckov Castle .

Trencin is one of our favourite Bratislava day trips because it is not yet overridden by tourism. You probably do not know it, but Trencin is chosen as the European Capital of Culture in 2026 . This charming town has a long and interesting history dating back to 179 A D. Its biggest attraction is undoubtedly its gorgeous castle , which dates back to Roman times. There is even the Roman Inscription on the rock below the castle. It is one of the most important Roman epigrams in Central Europe .

If you do not know, Trencin Castle is one of the largest and most famous Slovak castles . This fortress on a steep hill overlooking the city served as a royal castle. It was also a seat of noble families. Trencin Castle has a beautiful fortification system , including towers, gates and preserved walls. Today this castle has several exhibitions which help you to learn more about the town’s history. Do not forget to visit Trencin Castle Tower . It offers breathtaking views of the landscape.

Afterwards, climb the Town Tower , which offers beautiful views of Freedom Square . Find also beautiful buildings and monuments, such as the Plague Column or the Trencin Synagogue , built in the Oriental style. The highlights are also the Nativity of the Virgin Mary Church and its 16th-century covered staircase. Also, if you visit during the summer, do not miss the pop music festival Pohoda . It is the biggest music festival in Slovakia.

DISTANCE FROM SLOVAKIA’S CAPITAL:  130 km (80 miles), close to the Czech border on the River Vah.

BEST FOR: castles, cultural heritage and natural beauty

Trencin is just a quick drive from the capital, making it an excellent choice for a short day trip from Bratislava . The drive from the capital to Trencin takes approximately one hour and 20 minutes. Trencin is also on the Bratislava – Kosice train line with a fast train service that takes about an hour and a half. Trains from Bratislava central station (Hlavná Stanica) leave every two hours.

If you are not short on time, combine it with a trip to Beckov Castle , Trnava or Bojnice.

6. Beckov Castle

Beckov Castle makes a great day trip , particularly if you pair it with a trip to nearby Trencin. This historic landmark on the 50-metre cliff above the village is one of the prettiest castle ruins in Slovakia . The castle has a rich history dating back to the beginning of the 13th century.

Many years ago, it served as a protection of the north-western borders of the Hungarian Kingdom . Beckov Castle had an important role in the region’s defence. Explore the castle’s courtyards, towers and walls and enjoy beautiful views of the area.

Afterwards, stop at Kuria Beckov for a meal and enjoy views of the castle.

DISTANCE FROM BRATISLAVA:  112 km (70 km), close to Trencin

There is a direct bus from Trencin to the village of Beckov. The journey by local bus from Trencin bus station takes up to 40 minutes. On the way back, take a bus or taxi to Nove Mesto nad Vahom and change for a direct fast train to Bratislava (1 hour and 40 minutes).

7. Little Carpathian Wine Route

Not far from the capital is the countryside, where gorgeous small towns and wine cellars await. Even though you can hardly find Slovak wines in the shops beyond the Slovak borders , wines from this small country deserve your attention. The Little Carpathian Wine Route goes from Bratislava to Trnava and southwestern Slovakia. Here, in the country’s southwestern region, is winegrowing regions with charming towns, such as Svätý Jur , Pezinok, or Modra. These royal towns received their titles in the 17th century because they produced high-quality wines .

Today Little Carpathian Wine Route is one of the best day trips from Bratislava for wine lovers because these towns and villages are surrounded by vineyards. Buy a ticket and visit one of many family-owned wine cellars , where you can learn more about the local production of wine . You can even try local vines in traditional wine cellars.

The Little Carpathian Wine Route offers a year-round schedule. However, the best time is to visit during the wine festivals . The most famous festival is Wine Cellars Open day and is twice a year (in May and November).

Places to visit:

• Modra, in the foothills of the Little Carpathians, is famous for vineyards, wine-making traditions , and pottery. The small town of Modra (blue in English) became a pottery centre in the 19th century. Local experts still produce beautiful blue and white ceramics according to old traditions. If you decide to visit Modra, do not miss the Slovak Ceramic Sculpture Museum and the old Gothic church dating to the 14th century. Not far is also a 21-metre-high observation tower, Veľká Homola , which offers beautiful views of the forest and the Little Carpathian mountains.
• Svaty Jur and Pezinok are other small towns famous for their wine. You can find them less than 30 minutes drive from the capital. Beautifully preserved Svaty Jur allows you to see how a typical wine town looked like a few centuries ago . Many wine cellars in Svaty Jur are open to the public every day.

Afterwards, visit the Cerveny Kamen Castle (Red Stone Castle), which you can find not far from there.

DISTANCE FROM BRATISLAVA: Modra is 27 km (17 miles), Pezinok is 21 km (13 miles), and Svaty Jur is 16 km (under 10 miles) away from Slovakia’s capital.

BEST FOR: wine, pottery and scenic views

8. Banska Stiavnica

Banska Stiavnica is one of the most popular tourist hotspots among the locals because it really is extraordinary. Did you know Banska Stiavnica has a long history tied to silver mining? Probably you do not know, but this town was Europe’s El Dorado for several centuries. Stiavnica was one of the most important centres in the Habsburg Monarchy and became extremely rich and famous.

One of the reasons why Banska Stiavnica is, for us, one of the best day trips from Bratislava is because it is one of the prettiest towns in Slovakia . This beautifully preserved silver mining town is also one of the most important mining towns in Europe . That is why even UNESCO added Banska Stiavnica to its precious list.

Stiavnica has a lot of unique attractions and churches towering above the town. It has two castles which once protected it from invaders and numerous hiking opportunities. One of our favourite attractions is the underground museum where you can visit the old mining tunnels and try to be a miner.

DISTANCE FROM SLOVAKIA’S CAPITAL : 170 km (105 miles)

BEST FOR: UNESCO Site, cultural heritage, scenic views, unique attractions

There is no easy way to get there by public transport, and you would travel all day. The drive from Slovakia’s capital to Banska Stiavnica takes approximately 2 hours but is well worth it.

We recommend you pair Banska Stiavnica up with a trip to Bojnice (1-hour drive) or Spania Dolina (47 min drive). Both Bojnice and Spania Dolina are one of the most beautiful places to visit in Slovakia. They are well worth a visit when you explore Banska Stiavnica.

READ MORE ABOUT BANSKA STIAVNICA:

9. Spania Dolina

If you have extra time, consider visiting   Spania Dolina . Spania Dolina is perhaps not as famous as other places we have mentioned but is definitely one of our favourites. It is a perfect place for everyone who wants to escape the chaos of the city , and it is a n ideal destination for nature lovers . We also recommend visiting Spania Dolina to everyone who wants to see well-preserved Slovak architecture and learn more about rich mining history .

Spania Dolina , surrounded by mountains in Central Slovakia, is a true hidden gem . Only about 200 locals live permanently here, and tourists from other countries only rarely visit it.

Exploring Spania Dolina is one of the best day trips from Bratislava because this former mining village offers breathtaking views . Moreover, this charming village has preserved its mining heritage , which dates back to the 13th century.

Spania Dolina was once famous throughout Europe for its deposits of copper. When you visit this village, you can see beautiful houses where miners used to live back in the 17th and 18th centuries. Also, there are numerous scenic hiking trails suitable even for beginners.

DISTANCE FROM SLOVAKIA’S CAPITAL:  220 km (137 miles)

BEST FOR : scenic views, traditional Slovak architecture, hiking, mountain biking, several ski resort nearby

The drive from Bratislava to Spania Dolina takes about two hours by car – there is no direct public transport . If you decide to visit Spania Dolina, we recommend you pair it up with a visit to Banska Stiavnica (about 50 minutes away).

If you visit Spania Dolina during the winter, you can find several ski resorts nearby. The most famous are Donovaly (23 min drive) and Kraliky (25 min drive).

Alternatively, visit the beautiful Harmanecka cave , which is only 14 min drive away. Harmanecka Cave is also one of our favourite places in Slovakia because it is one of the most beautiful caves in the country. Do not forget, this cave is not open on Mondays. You can only visit it from the middle of May until the end of October.

10. Cachtice Castle

If you are interested in dark tourism , we recommend you visit Cachtice Castle because this fortress is famous for its association with the infamous Bloody Countess. You are right to think that Elizabeth Bathory lived here at the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries. Cachtice Castle is one of our favourite castles because it is famous for its legends , history and folklore. Even though Cachtice Castle is in ruins, it is one of the best day trips from Bratislava , and you should definitely visit it if you have spare time.

Cachtice Castle is one of the most famous Slovak castles because of its dark legend . When you visit this castle on a day trip from Bratislava, you can learn more about a Hungarian noblewoman who is famous for killing girl s. Many call her the bloody countess because she killed around 600 young girls. She even bathed in their blood. Bathory believed this way, she could stay forever young.

DISTANCE FROM SLOVAKIA’S CAPITAL: 105 km (65 miles)

BEST FOR: dark tourism, legends, castles and natural scenery

The drive to Cachtice Castle takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. There is no direct connection from the capital, and you need to change it a few times. The best way to visit the castle is to drive so you can easily visit other attractions. We recommend you pair Cachtice Castle with a trip to Trnava, Driny Cave or Piestany because they are also nearby.

11. Piestany

Piestany is also one of the best day trips because this small town is famous for its thermal springs and wellness facilities . You are right to think Piestany is a town with a long history of spa tourism . Many tourists come here for medical treatment, but we also visited it because it has beautiful scenery and cultural attractions.

The highlights are historical buildings, museums and spa facilities with healing thermal waters. Do not miss Colonnade Bridge , where you can see the famous statue of a man breaking his crutch . This statue is the symbol of this spa town. Piestany also has numerous scenic parks, such as Spa Island and Kursalon – perfect for walks and cycling.

DISTANCE FROM BRATISLAVA: 88km (55 miles)

BEST FOR : wellness, scenery

The drive from the capital to Piestany takes approximately one hour. Alternatively, ditch the car in favour of the train, which will get you there in around 1 hour and 12 minutes. Fast trains from Bratislava train station run frequently to Piestany.

12. Driny Cave

Another fascinating place to visit is Driny Cave , which is only a short drive from the capital. Driny Cave is a perfect Bratislava day trip for everyone who loves the caves and nature. This limestone cave is, in fact, the only cave which you can visit in Western Slovakia . You can find it in the Little Carpathians Mountains.

Also, Driny Cave has beautiful formations. They formed millions of years ago. If you decide to visit it, you will have a memorable experience of exploring the underground world . We also love it because of its rich history and stunning scenery. You can walk through narrow corridors and chambers and see how water and time have shaped these beautiful natural formations.

DISTANCE FROM SLOVAKIA’S CAPITAL : 60 km (37 miles)

BEST FOR: natural scenery

Getting to Driny Cave from the capital is easy with a car. The drive from Slovakia’s capital takes about one hour and 5 minutes. Driny Cave is not open on Mondays, and you can visit it only between April and the end of October. To reach the cave, you need to walk for about 20 minutes. The guided tour of Driny Cave lasts about 35 minutes. The entry fee to Driny Cave costs under 5 EUR (cash only).

We recommend you visit nearby Smolenice Castle and Trnava for the best experience. Alternatively, pair Driny Cave with a visit to Modra or Svaty Jur (famous for Little Carpathian Wine Route).

13. Sulov Rocks 

There is much to discover within less than two hours.

Slovakia’s largest city can be a little hectic, and we have got just the perfect antidote for you. Peaceful Sulov Rocks are a gorgeous place for hiking and can be one of the best day trips . These beautiful mountains are one of our favourite places for hiking because they have dramatic rock formations and stunning views .

Sulov Rocks are truly unique, and the locals call this rock city the Slovak Dolomites . Hiking Sulov Rocks is a perfect experience because these mountains have scenic surroundings and hiking routes for beginners . Sulov Rocks are a paradise for nature lovers and also photographers. We recommend visiting this Slovak Rock City to everyone who loves serene natural settings.

DISTANCE FROM BRATISLAVA: 185 km (115 miles)

BEST FOR : hiking, photography and scenic views

The easiest way to reach Sulov Rock is by car. This national nature reserve lies not far from the Bytca District in the Zilina region. The drive from Bratislava to Sulov Rocks takes just under two hours.

Park your car near Parkovisko hradu Súľov near Sulov-Hradna , where Sulovske Skaly educational trail starts. Afterwards, have lunch at Koliba pod Skalami . You can even spend a night there. If you have spare time, we also recommend you pair a trip to Sulov Rocks with a visit to Trencin or Lieatava Castle .

Don’t forget to bookmark this post about the best day trips from Bratislava so you can quickly find it when visiting the Slovak capital.

Day trips from Bratislava to Austria

It is easy to see why many people want to visit Vienna, the capital city of Austria, when in Slovakia. Vienna is one of the best day trips from Bratislava because of its close proximity , rich history and cultural heritage . Vienna is home to numerous world-class museums, art galleries and impressive architecture. We also love Vienna because this city was the capital of the Habsburg Empire . You can find iconic landmarks such as the Hofburg Palace , UNESCO Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral . Vienna is also world famous for its legendary musical heritage – famous composers, such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss lived here.

DISTANCE FROM SLOVAKIA’S CAPITAL:  78 km (48 miles)

BEST FOR : architecture, culture, history, UNESCO

Vienna is an easy day trip from Bratislava because it is only about an hour away from Slovakia’s capital by train, bus or car. Bratislava and Vienna have excellent transportation connections. Direct trains between those two cities are multiple times a day. You can also arrive on a boat, but it takes about 1 hour and a half.

If you decide to arrive by car, you should know that street parking in the city centre is for only 2 hours. Parking in the garages is expensive, and it is not worth it.

Day trips from Bratislava to Hungary

If you would like to explore Hungary on a day trip from Bratislava , it’s well worth visiting Gyor. Many locals will tell you that visiting Gyor on a day trip from the capital is much easier than exploring Budapest . And we could not agree more because Gyor is beautiful and easy to get to.

Maybe you do not know, but Gyor has a rich history, and its old town has beautifully preserved medieval buildings and churches. Hungarians call Gyor the pearl of Baroque architecture because it has hundreds of impressive buildings. No wonder it is one of the most beautiful places in Hungary.

The highlights of this student city are Gyor Cathedral , its beautiful Town Hall and Bécsi kapu Square – it is one of the best examples of a Baroque square in the country. We also recommend visiting Gyor to everyone who loves thermal baths and wellness.

DISTANCE FROM BRATISLAVA: 80 km (50 miles)

BEST FOR: baroque architecture, thermal baths and wellness

The drive to Gyor by car takes only an hour . There are also direct busses connecting these two cities. It is a perfect day trip if you want to go to Hungary but do not want to travel to Budapest.

Day trips from Bratislava to the Czech Republic

16. mikulov.

Mikulov also makes a great Bratislava day trip , particularly if you are a fan of small towns. Even though this village lies in the South Moravian region of Czechia it is well worth a visit. Tourists flock here because Mikulov is beautifully preserved and has many vineyards nearby.

The top attraction is Mikulov Castle , which sits on a hilltop overlooking the town. This baroque fortress has lovely castle grounds. It also has a museum that showcases the history of the region.

A charming market square with beautifully preserved architecture might not surprise you if you have visited several Czech Towns. The highlights of the square are Holy Trinity Column , a fountain and the beautiful sgraffito house decorated with Biblical scenes. Not far from there is also the iconic Dietrichstein Tomb .

Do not forget to hike up to Svatý Kopeček or Holy Hill in the Czech language. It has the best views of Mikulov , especially at sunset. Not far from Mikulov is also Lednice Castle .

DISTANCE FROM SLOVAKIA’S CAPITAL: 104 km (65 miles)

BEST FOR: wine, scenic views

Even though Mikulov is in Czechia, it is also an easy day trip . There are multiple bus and train connections during the day, but they are not direct (need to change in Breclav).

The easiest way to reach Mikulov from the Slovak capital is by car (1 hour and 15 min). If you decide to drive, we recommend you pair it up with a trip to Lednice Castle . This UNESCO site is only 15 minutes away from Mikulov.

If you plan a day trip from Bratislava to Czechia , you do not want to miss Brno. Brno is the second-largest city in the Czech Republic. This charming city has numerous landmarks. They are within the walk distance of the Old Town.

The highlights are the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul , St. James Ossuary , and Brno’s astronomical clocks . A visit to Spilberk Castle is, without a doubt, the highlight of your stay in Brno. This massive baroque citadel is one of the most iconic buildings in the city. We also recommend you visit Tugendhat Villa because this famous landmark is a UNESCO site .

DISTANCE FROM BRATISLAVA: 130 km (81 miles)

BEST FOR: UNESCO, history

Getting to Brno is easy. There are numerous bus and train connections every day. The train leaves from Bratislava Hlavna stanica (main station), and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and a half. Buses leave from Bratislava Bus Station (Autobusova stanica Nivy), and the journey takes up to two hours. If possible, avoid driving by car because you cannot park in the historic city centre without a permit.

Now you know what the best day trips from Bratislava are!

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10 most spectacular day trips from bratislava that you must take.

While there are lots of amazing things to do in Bratislava , you might want to explore the surrounding destinations after spending some time in the city.

There are endless opportunities for spectacular day trips from Bratislava Slovakia and it can be hard to decide on the perfect place.

Especially considering its ideal positioning just a short distance from Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic all you have to do is bring your passport and you can explore either of these countries on an easy one day trip from Bratislava.

Read on to find the most epic Bratislava day trips you can do either by train, bus, or car – including tips for responsible travel !

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Table of Contents

Best day trips from Bratislava

Banska stiavnica, slovakia.

• Parking: You can park for free below the new castle. Alternatively, it’s only 3.50 Euros for a full day of parking along the streets in the town center.
• Driving time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Train travel time: No options for a day trip from Bratislava
• Responsible travel tip! Bring a reusable water bottle.

One of the absolute best day trips from Bratislava is to the epic mining town Banska Stiavnica. The small town oozes history and mysterious legends and will leave you intrigued to explore more.

While it is less than 2 hours from Bratislava, there’s no easy way to get there by public transport and unfortunately, you won’t get much out of a day trip unless you drive a car.

Yet, it’s one I highly recommend! Explore the iconic New Castle that overlooks Banska Stiavnica, enjoy the panoramic views, and learn about the legends that are connected to it.

And you guessed right; when there’s a New Castle there must be an Old Castle. This is situated in the town center. The Old Castle is quite unique as it was a church that later was turned into a defensive fortress.

Take a stroll to the charming Holy Trinity Square, where you can also pick up a map at the tourist office. The square is dominated by the Holy Trinity Column and is perfect for people watching. It’s also worth taking a walk down Troutar street for a peek at the distinctive townhouses.

Finally, a must when in Banska Stiavnica is to visit the Open Air Mining Museum to learn more about the town’s rich mining history.

Banska Bystrica, Slovakia

• Parking: There are many parking lots in the city center.
• Driving time: 2 hours and 10 minutes.
• Train travel time: From 2 hours and 45 minutes.
• Responsible travel tip! Eat at locally owned restaurants and cafes.

Banska Bystrica is a super charming off the beaten path town to visit on a day trip from Bratislava. If you would like a slow day browsing the narrow streets through pastel-colored houses and drinking coffee over breac¡kfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, this is a great choice.

The main square has everything you need and the iconic clock tower is where you want to get to the top for epic views of Banska Bystrica. According to legend, a few angels that flew across the town bumped into it, thus it’s not standing straight today. But fear not, it’s perfectly safe to climb!

After seeing the views, head to Banska Bystrica Castle and take a peek inside the Church of the Assumption.

Banska Bystrica is also a great choice for nature lovers as you can go for short stunning hikes right outside the town center (or skiing in the winter.)

Trencin, Slovakia

• Parking: Parking Trencin
• Driving time: 1 hour 20 minutes.
• Train travel time: From 1 hour.
• Responsible travel tip! Bring a reusable coffee cup if you want to grab a coffee on the go.

Explore one of the most quaint towns in Slovakia on a one day trip from Bratislava to Trencin. Overlooked by the elegant 11th century Trencin Castle which holds an interesting history museum.

The castle is one of the most important historical monuments in the entire Povazie Region and a must-visit. Not only for its historical importance but also for the epic views of the town and surrounding greenery.

Grab a coffee to go and hit Mierove Square to take in the local vibe. The square is the center of happenings in Trencin and you’re sure to experience any market or other event going on that day by heading there.

Walk the Parish Stairway to the Parish Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary and climb the City Tower for extraordinary views of Mierove Square.

Trentin’s synagogue is also worth a visit. Its stunningly blue dome ceilings are quite different from what you will see in other places and though it was severely damaged during World War Two, in my opinion, it’s one of the best attractions in Trencin after the castle.

Mikulov, Czech Republic

• Parking: Parkoviště u Koupaliště (10 CZK per hour)
• Driving time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Train travel time: Around 2 hours
• Responsible travel tip! Take the train to save the environment

Just across the border in the Czech Republic, you find one of the most charming towns for any trips from Bratislava in a day. The main draw in Mikulov is the renovated Baroque castle sitting on a hilltop overlooking the little town.

But the highly underrated Kozí Hrádek castle is well worth the little hike to get there. It’s surrounded by lush nature and you’re guaranteed epic views of Mikulov.

Another nice walk is to the Křížová Cesta v Mikulově, which also offers extraordinary views. But Mikulov’s historic center is also extremely charming. Head to the main square, take a photo of the early 18th century Holy Trinity Column, and admire the Sgrafitto House which is beautifully decorated with biblical scenes.

Vienna, Austria

• Parking: Search for a Park & Ride garage to save money on parking. You can read more here .
• Driving time: 55 minutes.
• Train/bus travel time: 1 hour.
• Responsible travel tip! Take the train or the bus to save the environment but also to make it easier for you!

One of the best day trips from Bratislava is without a doubt to the vibrant capital of Austria. Vienna is a must visit with breathtaking architecture throughout the city.

One day in Vienna is surely not enough, but still totally worth it if you don’t have more time! It can be a tiny hell to find parking in Vienna, especially as street parking in the city center is usually maximum of 2 hours and the parking garages are all extremely expensive (coming from Slovakia, you’ll notice a day trip to Vienna on your wallet enough as it is) so I highly recommend taking public transport. It’s only an hour’s trip and both buses and trains are frequent.

The most important attractions you should consider on a day trip to Vienna from Bratislava are the majestic Schönbrunn Palace and gardens, and the Hofburg Palace complex.

Go for lunch in the city center, there are endless restaurants to choose from in different price classes. Stroll past the Column of the Trinity and climb to the top of St. Stephen’s Cathedral for sweeping city views.

Wander a little further to look for the Town Hall and the beautiful Votivkirche and relax a little in the park in front of it. Vienna is so jam-packed with impressive buildings, statues, fountains, and parks, that no matter where you turn, you’ll find something to admire and take a picture of. Thus, you’re sure to enjoy the day no matter what.

Budapest, Hungary

• Parking: Arena Plaza parking is free. There is paid parking throughout the city .
• Driving time: 2 hours and 20 minutes.
• Train travel time: 2 hours and 23 minutes
• Responsible travel tip! Look for locally owned cafés and restaurants to eat and drink.

Going on a day trip from Bratislava to Budapest is a must while in Slovakia’s capital city. While one day in Budapest might not seem like enough, you will still get a good feel of the wonderful city, and after all, it is one of the most beautiful places in Hungary .

Since the travel time is nearly 2 and a half hours, I highly recommend leaving early when going on a day trip to Budapest from Bratislava so that you get the most out of your excursion.

There are so many wonderful things to do in Budapest like wandering along the Danube river and up to the Liberty Statue where you’ll get epic views of the city and the Parliament building. Or why not go on a river cruise?

Visit the St. Stephen’s basilica and continue to the famous Széchenyi Thermal Baths. They are not budget friendly to enter, but if you fancy an hour or two of relaxation and seeing the most sought-after thermal baths in Hungary, it’s absolutely worth it!

Just note that it’s mandatory to wear slippers, so if you don’t bring your own, you’ll have to buy them there.

Brno, Czech Republic

Recommended by Nicolas of Rambling Feet

• Parking: You cannot park a car within the historic Brno city center without a permit. In Zone B, just outside the city center, you may park for 30 CZK per hour.
• Driving time: 1.5 hours.
• Train travel time: 1.5 hours. There are up to 13 services a day, with the first leaving Bratislava at 4:57 and the last returning from Brno at 22:22.
• Responsible travel tip! Take the train, it saves both the environment and money + time to find parking in the city.

Brno, the largest city in Czechia’s Moravia region, is a short hop from Bratislava. Don’t be surprised if you hear a lot of Slovak or Slovakian accents, though, because many students cross the border to further their studies at Masaryk University.

This contributes plenty to the vibe and nightlife but for the average tourist visiting outside the school term, there is still plenty to see and it is much cheaper than Prague.

From the Špilberk Castle, a fortress-turned-prison-turned museum, there is a commanding view of the old city and the spires of the Cathedral.

However, the variety of Brno’s underground attractions makes it unique among European cities. One can take a tour of the labyrinth under the Cabbage Market, a medieval network of tunnels that was used for hundreds of years to cellar food, beer, and wine.

A more macabre place of interest is the ossuary of the Church of St James, the second-largest in Europe after the Parisian catacombs. It was discovered only in 2001 and opened to the public in 2012 with thoughtful art arrangements.

Along the same lines, the crypt of the Capuchin Monastery features the mummified remains of its former inhabitants. One spot that fans of modernist architecture should not miss is  Villa Tugendhat , now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The work of Mies van der Rohe is a 20-minute walk from the city and can be visited on guided tours in Czech and English only. These are best booked in advance and they sell out quickly even in winter!

You get to explore all parts of the house, and from the balcony, there is a stunning view of the city that this time includes Špilberk Castle.

Thanks to the young student population, there is no shortage of vegetarian and vegan food options around, such as Forky’s next to the Church of St James.

Trnava, Slovakia

Recommended by Kami of My Wanderlust

• Parking: City Arena Underground Parking
• Driving time: 40 minutes
• Train travel time: 30-45 minutes

Trnava , the 7th-largest city and one of the oldest towns in Slovakia , is one of the easiest day trips from Bratislava by train. The place is located only 50 km northeast of the capital and is easily reachable by train (this is, no doubt, the best way to reach the city) – there are a few direct trains per hour and the journey time is between 30 and 45 minutes.

The Old Town, where you will find all the attractions in Trnava, is only a few minute’s walk from the train station. Trnava is the first town in current Slovakia that got the title of the royal town (in 1238) and today you can find numerous monuments that are a testimony to the city’s long history.

Trnava’s Old Town is still partly surrounded by medieval walls, among the best-preserved ones in Slovakia. The city is often called “little Rome” due to being the religious and cultural capital of the region.

And indeed you can find many impressive churches there, even if you are not a spiritual person you will surely appreciate their stunning architecture and interior.

One of the most unique places in Trnava is the former synagogue from the end of the 19th century that today works as a cool cafe, still with the original interior inside.

One of the best things to do in Trnava is to wander around and feel the vibrant atmosphere of the city. You will definitely not be disappointed with choosing Trnava during your Slovakia itinerary .

Graz, Austria

Recommended by Alina of World of Lina

• Parking: There is paid parking in the city center. You can pay by phone through an app or sms .
• Driving time: 3 hours
• Bus travel time: 4 hours – I highly recommend driving if you want to make it a day trip from Bratislava.
• Responsible travel tip! Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up during your day to avoid plastic waste and to stay hydrated.

Another one of the best day trips from Bratislava is Graz. Graz is Austria’s second-largest city and the capital of the federal state of Styria.

The distance from Bratislava to Graz is rather far and although there are train and bus connections available, it’s best to take the car. It’s approximately a 3-hour drive so make sure you leave early to enjoy a full day in Graz.

Once in Graz, the first thing you’ll probably notice is the “Uhrturm” – the city’s main sight and one of the most famous landmarks in Austria located on a small hill.

To get up there, you can either climb a few hundred steep stairs or take the less exhausting way: The cable car called “Schlossbergbahn”. On top, you’ll have a wonderful 360-degree view of the entire city.

Another place not to miss is the Kunsthaus. It’s a modern art museum housing different exhibitions of contemporary artists. Because of its strange look, locals also call it ‘friendly alien’.

If you get hungry, head to one of the many good restaurants nearby. Some good recommendations are Ginko Greenhouse or Don Camillo. Afterward, make your way to Schloss Eggenberg to take enjoy a relaxing stroll in the big, lush park surrounding the castle.

One day is more than enough to see all the main attractions without rushing through the city.

Esterhazy Palace, Austria

Recommended by Paul of Paulmarina

• Parking at the Palace Garage: €5 for 4 hours
• Driving time: about 1 hour
• Train travel time: about 1 1/2 hours via Parndorf Ort
• Responsible travel tip! The area around the Neusiedlersee is a protected World Heritage sight with a rich diversity living in symbiosis with the physical place and humans for thousands of years so contribute to protecting the area by not throwing – and if necessary – picking up any rubbish.

The  Esterhazy palace  in Eisenstadt, Austria is located near the Austrian border in the region of Burgenland and makes one of the most memorable Bratislava day trips.

The princely family of Esterhazy called this palace their home, and today it’s part of their private foundation. The highlight of a tour through the fairytale palace and gardens is the Haydn Hall.

The great composer was in service of the family for about 40 years, he even lived nearby. This hall is still used today as a beautiful concert hall.

The wine vaults are another must-see together with the exhibition about Melinda Esterhazy. The public gardens are as enthralling as the castle itself, making it a perfect spot to take a short afternoon walk or to take a series of memorable pictures.

The city of Eisenstadt is located right next to the castle, and you shouldn’t miss this wonderful lesser known Austrian city.

The Neusiedlersee is located near the city, which is one of the longest lakes in Austria and a popular hangout place during the summer months.

Those who have more time left can plan a trip to one of the nearby historical cities such as the colorful Wiener Neustadt or the UNESCO world heritage city of Baden bei Wien.

Reflections on Bratislava day trips

As you can see, there are a whole lot of exciting day trips from Bratislava you can take both within Slovakia and in the neighboring countries.

With stunning cities and towns, different cultures, and unique architecture, no matter where you choose to go you’re guaranteed to have a ball.

However, if you choose to cross the border, even though it’s within the European Union, make sure you bring your passport as some countries perform passport checks even on public transport.

Happy travels!

10 Dreamy Day Trips From Bratislava, Slovakia

If you’re planning a trip around Central Europe and you’re finding yourself in beautiful Bratislava, you’re in luck. You have so many options for day trips from Bratislava, in- and outside of Slovakia, that you might get slightly overwhelmed. Did you know that Bratislava is the only capital in the world located on the border of three countries – Slovakia, Austria and Hungary!

In this post, with the help of a few other travel bloggers, we will be covering 10 different options for day trips from Bratislava to places within Slovakia, as well as in Austria, Hungary and Czech Republic. So get your notebooks out and let yourself get inspired for your next adventure!

Table of Contents

10 STUNNING DAY TRIPS FROM BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA

1. day trip from bratislava to vienna.

One of the most worthy day trips from Bratislava is undoubtedly Vienna, Austria. As a matter of fact, with only about 60km between them, Vienna and Bratislava are among some of the most closely located capitals in the world.

Vienna, also known as the capital of music, is one of the most stunning, cultural and diverse cities I have visited. The places you would not want to miss are the old city centre with its stunning architecture and historic buildings, as well as the two castles – Schönbrunn and Belvedere. Don’t forget to try the so-typical Viennese schnitzel as well.

Depending on the season, there are countless events happening in the city, many of which are free to visit.

Getting to Vienna is as easy as it gets – regular buses and trains operate about every 30 to 60 minutes and the tickets cost anywhere between 5 and 10 euros one way. For the more adventurous ones among you there is even a boat service connecting the two cities. The company Twin City Liner operates regularly, with a pick-up/drop off at the very central parts of both Bratislava and Vienna (costs about 35 euros one way/person). You would have reached the Austrian capital before you know it, as the trip only takes about an hour with either means of transport.

If you have the option, I’d suggest spending at least 2 days in Vienna , in order to enjoy it fully.

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2. Day trip from Bratislava to Brno

By Adriana at Czech the World

Brno is the second-largest city in the Czech Republic and the capital of the Moravia region. Brno presents a perfect combination of history and a modern city. Here you can find remarkable places, delicious food, beer, and wine. Brno is only 1,5 hours by train or bus from Bratislava, which makes it a great destination for a day trip from Bratislava.

Once you are there, visit both dominants of the city, – the Špilberk Castle, which is a massive baroque citadel with extensive casemates, as well as the most iconic building of Brno – Petrov Cathedral. Another interesting place that should be on your list is St. James Ossuary, which is the second largest in Europe! The main square – Náměstí Svobody is often a place of markets and festivals. If you find yourself as a fan of modern architecture, you shouldn’t miss Vila Tugendhat – villa built in functionalist style in 1929-30, which is listed among UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here, you can find also other places and things to do in Brno .

One day is just the right amount of time to visit all the important places! Everything in the city center is within walking distance, so except for visiting Villa Tugendhat, there is no need to use public transport.

Getting to Brno is not complicated at all, there is quite a lot of buses and trains going from Bratislava to Brno. Trains leave from Bratislava Hlavná stanica (Main Train Station) and the journey takes about 1,5 hours. Buses leave from Bratislava Bus Station (Autobusová stanica Nivy) and the journey takes from 1,5 to 2 hours. Prices start at 5 Euros, depending on the company.

3. Day trip from Bratislava to Devín Castle

By Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan

Photo By Martina & Jürgen at PlacesofJuma

Devín Castle, or Hrad Devín in Slovak, sits right at the confluence of the Danube River and the Morava River, looking out over the countryside surrounding Vienna on the other side . Obviously this strategic location on a cliff looking down on both rivers was the ideal place to build a fortress. And indeed, the place was fortified as early as the Bronze Age, and then by the Celts and the Romans.

The two rivers also serve as the border between Slovakia and Austria and were once the Iron Curtain dividing capitalist and communist Europe. After the Velvet Revolution in 1989, the castle was finally demilitarized and is now open to the public. It stands largely in ruins, which makes it all the more atmospheric.

The caves in the upper section of the castle host a permanent exhibit about its history from the 13th to the 20th century. Of the various structures still standing, the most famous one is the small, round Maiden Tower perched high on a rocky outcrop. But the real highlight of a visit here is the spectacular view.

Devín lies about 12 kilometers outside Bratislava. From the Most SNP bus stop, you can take bus 29 or 129. Ask the driver or a fellow passenger to tell you when to get off, as it may not be obvious. In the summer months, boats also run to Devín from the Bratislava passenger port.

4. Hike in Devinska Kobyla Park

By Maria and Ciaran at Maptrekking

Located nearby Devin, Slovakia, the hike from ‘Pod Devínskou kobylou – rázcestie’ to ‘Sandberg’ or vice versa, is a short nature hike giving wonderful views of Devin Castle, Morava River, and the neighboring country of Austria. It is so close to the border that during the hike my phone kept connecting to the Austrian cell tower!

The path is not well marked or well kept but the trail is recorded on google maps, so it is important to have internet data or the map saved offline. According to google maps, the total length is 4.3 kilometers and takes 1 hour to walk nonstop. It will be longer if there are stops to admire beautiful views, which is definitely recommended!

It is a great area with many more trails that go further into the Devínska Kobyla Park. For a day trip to Devin, this hike is the perfect length; especially when paired with seeing the nearby castle and stopping for lunch in a cafe.

For transport, there is a train from Bratislava that runs to a different nearby town called Devínska Nová Ves. This option isn’t the best since the train station is still 2.5 kilometers from the trail. The easiest transport is to take tram 9 or bus number 32 or 39 to connect with bus 29 from Bratislava and get off at Devín, Svätopluk, Stop ID: 56, only an 8 min walk to the trail entrance if you are starting at ‘Pod Devínskou kobylou – rázcestie’. When getting to the end of the hike at ‘Sandberg’, walk 10 mins to Pri Sandbergu, Stop ID: 237, and take the bus 29 back to Bratislava. The same as before, connect with bus 32 or 39 to get directly to the city centre.

It is important to note that there is a direct bus 21 going from Bratislava to Pri Sandbergu, Stop ID: 237. The stop leaving from Bratislava is quite far outside the city centre though.

Recommended itinerary

• Bus to Devin in the morning
• Devin Castle
• Hike ‘Pod Devínskou kobylou – rázcestie’ to ‘Sandberg’
• Bus to Bratislava

5. Hiking and Urban Exploring at Devínska Kobyla Abandoned Missile Base

By Iris at Mind of a Hitchhiker

The highest hill near Bratislava is Devínska Kobyla near Devín. At the summit, there’s an abandoned Soviet missile base you can visit if you (1) love urban exploration or visiting alternative sights, (2) have thick-soled boots, and (3) enjoy the fresh air.

The hilltop has a great array of deserted military structures where they used to store anti-aircraft rockets. Perhaps it requires a bit of imagination, but those huge cylindrical concrete storage places once held rockets for the Cold War. Near the flat and treeless peak, you’ll see several concrete patches that would have been used to launch them from to the enemy in the west. From the viewpoint there you can see Austria across the mighty Danube River. Once, this was a hard border and part of the Iron Curtain. Now it’s all part of the Schengen zone.

In 1996, three years after Czechoslovakia became Czechia plus Slovakia, the military took the missiles elsewhere and abandoned the base. Both the forest and human vandalism has taken over in a strange kind of open-air museum of culture and nature that I found impressive and eerie.

To get to Devínska Kobyla’s abandoned missile base , it’s easiest to take a Bolt taxi (20 minutes) up to the gate and then continue on foot. Afterward, you can continue walking downhill on the other side into Devínska Kobyla national nature reserve. There are several trails that lead into the town of Devín with spectacular views of the castle ruins. If you have the energy, you can combine this hike with a visit to Devín Castle. After a short walk at the confluence of the Danube and Morava, take the bus (35 minutes) back to Bratislava. This will cost you less than €5 for a really good time.

6. Day Trip from Bratislava to Banská Štiavnica

By Joel at World Heritage Journey

Banská Štiavnica is one of Europe’s genuine hidden gems. Tucked away in a forested valley in central Slovakia, Banská Štiavnica is a completely preserved medieval silver mining town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fascinatingly, it’s located in the caldera of a long-extinct volcano. Although mines have existed in the area for millennia, likely even since pre-Roman times, Banská Štiavnica became extremely rich and famous during the Middle Ages, a heyday which lasted for centuries.

These days, you can explore many parts of this legacy. You can enter several of the old mines, and see one of the first places where gunpowder was used in mining. Beautiful baroque buildings line the streets, and Trinity Square at the centre of town is marked by a huge Plague Column.

You can also visit the two large castles that were built to protect Banská Štiavnica from invaders, particularly the Ottoman Empire. Both the Old Castle and the New Castle stand on hills above the town centre, with commanding views and impressive stonework. There’s also the world’s first Technical University, set up in the 18th century to teach skills in mining and forestry.

Although it’s a long day trip from Bratislava it’s definitely doable! There’re several buses a day direct from Bratislava, though you could also catch a train to nearby Zvolen, then catch a bus to Banská Štiavnica. The train station is about 3km outside of the town centre. But the easiest option is driving: about 90 minutes along E58, then Route 2530 toward Sandrická and Route 51 into Banská Štiavnica. Note that for conservation, non-residents can’t drive into the centre of town, so you’ll need to park on the outskirts and walk in.

7. Day trip from Bratislava to Budapest

By Clemens at Travellers Archive 

In the past 20 years, the Hungarian capital Budapest, also called the ‘Paris of the East’, has become a new and fascinating highlight in European city tourism. No matter whether you roam the romantic Buda, the castle hill on which the castle, the presidential palace and the Fisherman’s Bastion are located, or rather the pulsating flat Pest on the other side of the Danube. Budapest is a true jewel that wants to be explored; both during the day and at night.

A visit or at least a tour of the impressive parliament building should not be missed. From there you can take a walk to the cathedral, and along the beautiful Danube river, along the Vaci Utca until the imposing market hall appears at the very end. The biggest highlight is an evening stroll along the Danube to and over the huge and impressive chain bridge.

A good option to make a trip from Bratislava to Budapest is by car or rental car. The journey takes only 2 hours. It also takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes by train, which is a great experience as well. The cheapest option though is by bus. Flixbus offers busses from Bratislava to Budapest for only 5.99 euros, which is quite a bargain.

8. Spend the day at the Petrzalka neighbourhood

By Emily at Wander-Lush

Still within the city limits and just a stone’s throw from the Old Town, Petržalka is one of the most interesting parts of Bratislava and a great place to fill in an extra day. This is perhaps the easiest day trip to take – you don’t have to go far at all, but you’ll feel a world away.

Petržalka is the Slovakian capital’s largest suburb. Despite taking up most of the city’s real estate, few tourists ever find themselves crossing the Danube to visit the residential area. After spotting the rows of brightly coloured buildings that characterise the suburb from Bratislavský hrad, I was intrigued to check it out from ground level.

Petržalka has a long and interesting history as an independent town that was incorporated into Bratislava quite recently. The most striking thing about it – and the thing that makes it worth visiting – are the massive Socialist-style apartment blocks that have been decorated over the years with bright paint and graphic patterns.

To get to Petržalka, simply take public bus 91 from the main road below the castle. You’ll pass over ZEMEGULA s.r.o., past the iconic UFO Observation Deck. Jump off at a spot that takes your fancy and pick a street to start wandering down. You can’t go wrong – visual inspiration lurks behind every corner in the form of murals and beautifully decorated facades. It’s also very interesting to people-watch and observe daily life; this is ‘the real Bratislava’, and it certainly feels miles apart from the tourist centre just across the river. The area is very safe to explore on your own. While there, I highly recommend eating lunch at a local restaurant such as Alfa or Slovenská Bašta.

9. Day trip from Bratislava to Trenčín

By Becky at Becksplore Travel

If you are staying in Slovakia’s capital for longer and have run out of things to do in Bratislava then you maybe want to pay a visit to Trenčín. Trenčín is another Slovak city which is located around 120km away from Bratislava and close to the Czech border. There are direct trains that leave for Trenčín about every two hours.

Like in most Slovak cities, the main attraction in Trenčín is its castle. From the top you can get stunning views of the entire city and the nature that surrounds it. In the castle you can find several exhibitions and learn more about the history of the Trenčín region and of the castle itself. Entry to the castle costs around 5.50€ for adults.

Other than visiting the castle you can pay a visit to Piaristic church, visit the city tower as well as walk around the main square. End your day by enjoying some delicious and affordable craft beers at Lanius restaurant or try some traditional Slovak soups.

How to get there: From Bratislava central station (Hlavná Stanica) you can take a direct train to Trenčín train station which will take exactly one hour and 20 minutes. One way will cost you around 6.22€

10. Day trip from Bratislava to Trnava

By Jenna at I know the pilot

Trnava, also known as ‘Little Rome’ and the ‘Church Capital’ of the former Kingdom of Hungary (now part of Slovakia), is a beautiful little town full of fascinating history and gorgeous architecture. Remarkably well preserved, yet off the tourist trail, the town has been a part of several countries over the years, so visitors can wander the streets for hours and experience a melting pot of culture, history and architectural styles.

As you can gather by the nicknames, Trnava is known for its many churches, and these are definitely worth a look. Another must-see is the beautiful ‘Status Quo Ante’ synagogue, and for a unique experience visit Synagoga Cafe, a repurposed synagogue that now serves coffee and cake amidst soaring ceilings and religious relics. And don’t forget to check out the famous city walls – built in the 13th century, and some of the best preserved in Europe.

Visitors can visit the heart of the city, Trinity Square, and climb the ‘Town Tower’, a renaissance style building with views across the square and surrounding streets. There are several galleries and museums that may also be of interest, for the history enthusiast or art lover. You can visit the local brewery ‘Sessler’, or if you’re spending a night or two, you could also get out into the countryside and visit some of the famous Slovakian wine region.

Trnava is located 47 kilometres North-East of Bratislava, and takes around 35 minutes to drive. There are also options to get there directly by bus (40 minutes) or train (47 minutes). We recommend the bus, as it’s cheaper and quicker than the train!

Enjoy your visit to this little tourist-free gem, just a quick drive from Bratislava and beautiful in any season.

I hope this short but sweet list gave you enough inspiration to plan your day trips from Bratislava and have an unforgettable experience. I’d love to hear your impressions and personal experiences in the comments!

You may also enjoy:

Vienna to Bratislava Day Trip – How to spend One Day in Bratislava

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18 Wonderful Day Trips from Bristol, UK

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Lyubomira is the creator and author behind Bulgarian On The Go. With a background in journalism and experience in the field of tourism and marketing, her mission is to show travellers many beautiful places they might have never thought of visiting or even knew existed.

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9 of the best road trips in Europe

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 10.06.2024

If you've got wheels, wanderlust and a spot of time, a road trip in Europe offers the chance to see the continent at a relaxed pace. From the sunny shores of Portugal to the dungeons of Dracula's castle in Transylvania in Romania , the following itineraries can be easily combined, shortened or altered to suit your wayfaring tastes. Here are 9 of the best road trips in Europe.

1. From the glamour of Paris to the glorious grit of Berlin (France to Germany)

2. surf and sun in the basque country and beyond, 3. the arctic fjords from bergen to trondheim (norway), 4. the unexplored east: bucharest to vienna (romania to austria), 5. to portugal and beyond.

• 6. High-altitude adventure on Germany's Alpine Road

7. Godly beaches and ancient highways in Greece

8. london to edinburgh and the highlands, 9. the secret shores of sicily and calabria, planning your european road trip, travel ideas for spain, created by local experts.

9 days  / from 2468 USD

Andalucía Explored

Discover the best of Andalucía's breathtaking palaces, churches, museums, vineyards, and more, as you travel through spectacular scenery dotted with pueblos blancos and bordered by rugged mountains and coast en route to Granada, Seville, Ronda and Jerez de la Frontera.

4 days  / from 643 USD

A culinary experience in Seville

Explore the cuisine and surroundings of Seville in Andalucia. From Iberian ham over sherry wines to the production and secrets of olive oil, this tour is an ideal weekend getaway. Decide yourself if you prefer a rental car or a chauffeur-driven car to explore the beauty of Andalucia.

10 days  / from 3791 USD

Spanish Honeymoon

Discover Andalusia, starting with the cultural city of Seville, then on to Córdoba and Granada, home of the stunning Alhambra Palace. Next you'll visit Granada and the Albayzin Arab quarter, then enjoy a stunning hot-air balloon ride, before ending your trip with a luxury boat trip from Marbella!

5 days  / from 1480 USD

Made for Madrid

Take to the Spanish capital for art, culture and a taste of life in the city, Madrileño-style. Explore age-old churches and pretty plazas, stroll through the lovely Buen Retiro Park and visit captivating Toledo. Then, come sundown, discover the city's vibrant barrios and lively nightlife.

4 days  / from 1399 USD

A Madrid getaway

Spend four days discovering the wonders of Spain's capital Madrid: from fascinating museums like El Prado and Reina Sofia over exploring unknown corners with your private guide to a day trip to the surroundings, this itinerary packs the best of Madrid.

18 days  / from 4590 USD

Hidden Spain - From Barcelona to Basque Country

Do you want to explore highlights in Spain while staying in nature at the same time? Look no further. Start your Spanish adventure in Barcelona before heading off to the mountains - drive your rental car to Andorra and further on to Basque Country. Decide between driving yourself or guided tours.

Leaving Paris , cruise through the gentle hills of Champagne and Reims to the quaint capital of Luxembourg City, and explore the small country’s many fairy-tale castles.

Trier , Germany’s oldest city, is less than an hour’s drive north-east, where ancient Roman baths and basilicas stand marvellously intact.

Spend a night in the medieval village of Bacharach in Riesling wine country, before wandering the riverside streets of Heidelberg . Onward to Nuremberg , and then to Leipzig for a strong dose of hot caffeine with your Cold War history, classical music and cake. Make sure to check out the complete guide to the UNESCO world heritage sites in Germany to visit some of the palaces and gardens , industrial heritage sites or historic town centres along the way.

Detour to Dresden , restored after the ruinous bombing in WWII, before ending in one of Europe’s coolest cities: the creative paradise of Berlin .

For a longer trip, start in London and take the ferry or channel tunnel to France , transforming this road trip into a pilgrimage between Europe’s holy trinity of artistic hubs.

• Best for: Culture vultures looking for bragging rights.
• How long: 1–2 weeks.
• Insider tip: If you’re driving in France, you’ll legally need to keep safety equipment in your car (a reflective vest and hazard signal). Additionally, be prepared with a cash or credit card to pay the French road tolls on the way.

Panoramic aerial view of Trier featuring the famous Trierer Dom © S-F/Shutterstock

Begin in Bilbao , where the surrounding beaches boast world-class surf, then drive along the Atlantic to San Sebastian : watersports wonderland and foodie heaven. From there venture south through the rugged wilderness of the Pyrenees to Pamplona . Climb the Roncesvalles Pass before looping back to the coast. Or continue along the Bay of Biscay to the attractive seaside resort of St-Jean-de-Luz.

Travellers with a little extra money lining their pockets will be happy to spend days lingering on boho beaches in Biarritz, while those looking for gargantuan swell can do no better than the surfer hangouts in Hossegor.

Finish the trip northward in Bordeaux – the Pearl of the Aquitaine – where café-strewn boulevards and world-class wines are your trophies at the finish line.

Bilbao to Bordeaux

• Best for: Sun-seeking surfers and foodies.
• How long: 1 week.
• Insider tip: Check seasonal surf forecasts before you go, and look into coastal campsites if you're on a budget.The Basque roads beg for a convertible – or a colourful camper van with surfboards strapped to the roof.

Biarritz City and its famous beach © Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

Kick off in the city of Bergen , on Norway’s southwest coast, and make way past mighty fjords to Voss and the colossal Tvindefossen waterfall. Then check the world's longest road tunnel off your to-do list, a cavernous 24.5km route under the mountains.

Catch a quick ferry across the Sognefjord and carry on to the Fjaler valleys, a land of glaciers and snowy mountain peaks, to the waterside towns of Stryn or the mountain village Videster.

Work your way northward to the well-touristed towns of Geiranger, down the death-defying hairpin turns of Trollstigen (literally “The Troll Path”).

After the descent, ferry across the Eresfjord to Molde and Kristiansund. For the final stretch, drive the iconic Atlantic Road with its roller-coaster-style bridges, and conclude with some well-deserved downtime upon the still waters and stilted homes of Trondheim .

• Best for: Thrill seekers and landscape junkies.
• How long : 5–7 days.
• Insider tip : This route is best tackled from late spring to early autumn. If you plan on road tripping during Norway’s winter months, be sure to check online ahead of time for road closures due to snow and ice.
• Ready to explore Norway? Start preparing by finding out how to get there .

The idyllic surroundings of Stryn in Norway © Mikolajn/Shutterstock

Start from Bucharest , travelling northward through the Carpathian mountains to Transylvania, and make a mandatory stop at Bran Castle (claimed to be the old stomping grounds of Dracula himself).

Take the Transfagarasan mountain road, one of the most scenic routes in the world, towards the age-old cities and countless castles of Sibu, Brasov and Sighisoara. Then set course to the unexplored architectural gems of Timisoara.

Carry on towards the tranquil hot springs and hip ruin pubs of bustling Budapest, and be prepared to stay at least a few days. Depart for Bratislava – a capital full of surprises – from where it's only an hour further to the coffeehouses and eclectic architecture of Vienna .

• Best for: Anyone looking for a break from the conventional tourism of western Europe.
• How long: 7–12 days.
• Insider tip: Exercise caution when driving through tunnels. Though the weather outside may be fine, tunnels are often slippery.

Bran (Dracula) castle in Transylvania, Romania © Kanuman/Shutterstock

Start in Braga , before driving south to the medieval town of Guimarães , a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then it’s onward to the breathtaking "second-city" of Porto , though it's nothing less than first-rate. Check here for the best places to stay in Porto .

Drive east to the vineyards and steep valleys of Penafiel and Amarante before hitting the coastal road to the vast white beaches of Figueira da Foz - among the best beaches in Portugal . From here it’s on to Peniche, Ericeira and then Lisbon : the country's vibrant capital that's on course to beat out Berlin for Europe’s coolest city. Check out the best areas to stay in Lisbon as well as the best places to eat to match your taste.

Drive south to Sagres , Arrifana and Carrapateira. After soaking up the sun on the picturesque shores of the Algarve, wrap this road trip up in the Mediterranean dreamland otherwise known as Faro .

If you’ve still got itchy feet when you reach Faro, take the ferry from nearby Algeciras in Spain to Morocco . Imagine the satisfaction of parking your ride in the desert village of Merzouga, before exploring the Sahara – that's right, it would feel awesome.

• Best for: Beach bums and oenophiles.
• How long: At least 10–14 days.
• Insider tip: As Portugal is among the more affordable destinations in Western Europe, this can be an especially great trip for travellers on a budget . 

Oliveira Square, Guimarães © Patricia Henriques Barros/Shutterstock

6. High-altitude adventure on Germany's Alpine Road

The Alpenstrasse, or Alpine Road, is your ticket to a bonafide Bavarian odyssey: a safe route through the unforgettable vistas of Germany 's high-altitude meadows, mountains, crystal-clear lakes and cosy village restaurants. Start lakeside at Lindau on the Bodensee and head to Oberstaufen for a therapeutic beauty treatment in the country’s “Capital of Wellness”.

Venture eastwards to the Breitachklamm gorge, where the river Breitach cuts through verdant cliffs and colossal boulders. Carry on to the town of Füssen – famous for its violin makers – stopping along the way at any quaint Alpine villages you please. The iconic Neuschwanstein Castle , the same structure that inspired Walt Disney to build his own version for Cinderella, isn’t far off either - one of those places even more beautiful in winter.

Speaking of winter, hit the slopes of Garmisch-Partenkirchen for some serious skiing if the season’s right. Stop at Benediktbeuern on your way to the medieval town of Bad Tölz, then up through the stunning wilderness scenes of the Chiemgau Alps before ending in the regional capital of Munich . If you’re missing the mountain roads already, carry on to Salzburg in Austria and stop in the ice caves of Werfen on the way.

Lindau to Oberstaufen

• Best for: Outdoorsy types.
• How long: 5–8 days.
• Insider tip: Give your road trip an extra purpose and pack your skis or snowboard. Garmisch-Partenkirchen ski season starts early December and ends early May. In the summer months, you can go hiking or climbing instead.

Church in Benediktbeuern © FooTToo/Shutterstock

Start in Athens and take the coastal roads south through the Athenian Riviera to Sounion, situated at the tip the Attic peninsula. Watch a sunset at the Temple of Poseidon, then drive northward through mythic mountains to the fortress of Kórinthos before posting up in the legendary city of Mycenae (home of Homeric heroes).

If you’re craving a luxurious seaside stay, look no further than the resort town of Nafplio. If not, carry onwards through the unforgiving landscapes to Mystra, the cultural and political capital of Byzantium.

Want more? Then it’s on to Olympia, sporting grounds of the ancients, and the mystic ruins of Delphi. Loop back towards Athens, approaching the city from the north.

• Best for: Sun-worshippers,and anyone who’s ever read Homer or watched overly action-packed flicks such as Troy and 300 .
• How long: 5–10 days, though it’s easy to trim a version of this road trip down to a long weekend.
• Insider tip: If you’re parking in central Athens keep an eye out for coloured parking spaces – these are reserved for locals, so if you park here you’ll get a ticket.

Aerial view of Nafplio city in the summer © Olga Kot Photo/Shutterstock

Leave the hectic pace of England ’s capital London behind. Make for Oxford, home of the world’s oldest English-language university, and a place of storied pubs where the likes of J.R.R Tolkien and Lewis Carrol regularly wet their whistles.

If you’ve got the time, it’s a quick drive to the cottages of the Cotswolds - check our guide to the prettiest villages to visit . If not, cruise up to Stratford-Upon-Avon, birthplace of Shakespeare.

Take the two-and-a-half-hour drive north to Manchester for a city fix and watch a football match. Carry on north to the Lake District National Park, one of the most beautiful places in England . Drink in the scenery that inspired England’s finest romantics, then head across the Yorkshire dales to the quirky medieval lanes of York, founded by the Romans nearly 2000 years ago.

From there it's north again past tiny villages to the majestic wonders of Edinburgh . If you’re craving the rugged comforts of the highlands go to Stirling, Inverness, or the Western Isles – worth the drive indeed. And if you are going by electric car, check out this great guide to plan your electric car road trip in Britain .

London to Inverness

• Best for: Locals that want to feel like foreigners, and foreigners that want to feel like locals.
• How long: 5–10 days.
• Insider tip: Destinations like Stratford-Upon-Avon and York (not to mention London) are true tourist hotspots in the summer. Plan your road trip for spring or autumn and you’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery along with fewer crowds.

Catbells  in The Lake District © Michael Conrad/Shutterstock

Hit the gas in the Sicilian capital of Palermo, the biggest historic centre in Italy after Rome and arguably the country’s most chaotic metropolis.

Adventure onwards along the Tyrrhenian coast to the golden sands of Cefalù – a great holiday spot for families, with a mellow medieval town centre to boot.

Get to the island’s heartland and the ancient city of Enna. Surrounded by cliffs on all sides, and built atop a massive hill, you'll feel as though you've walked on the set of Game of Thrones . Head southeast to the shores of the Ionian Sea and dock in Siracusa, once the most important in the western world while under ancient Greek rule with much of its historic architecture intact.

Then it’s up to Catania for a trip to molten Mount Etna, the tallest active volcano on the entire European continent.

Finish the trip in Messina, or ferry across into the Italian province of Calabria where rustic mountain villages, friendly locals and the idyllic sands of Tropea and Pizzo await – refreshingly devoid of foreigners.

• Best for: Anyone looking for a truly authentic Italian experience, and of course, hardcore foodies.
• How long : 6–12 days.
• Insider tip: Remember that southern Italy can get very hot in July and August. Avoid the heat of the day with a leisurely lunch (go easy on the wine if you’re driving!) and travel in the early morning or evening instead.

Want to explore Europe even more? We have prepared the most convenient European itineraries for you to explore the continent.

Cefalù on a beautiful day with clear skies © Cezary Wojtkowski/Shutterstock

Planning for the perfect trip to Europe can take hours of research. Why not allow us to take can of the planning and booking, allowing you to make the most of your trip? Our tailor made trips are created by local travel experts and are completely customised to your preferences.

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Best Vietnam eSIM from US$ 1.92 -High-Speed eSIM for Travelling in Vietnam

by Catherine

June 11, 2024

• Country Vietnam
• Pacakage Option 600MB/Day
• Number of Days 1 Day
• Price US$1.92
• Number of Days 7 Days
• Price US$4.25
• Number of Days 15 Days
• Price US$6.33
• Network Operator: Mobifone
• 4G/5G high-speed connectivity
• Hotspot Sharing: Supported
• Internet-only eSIM: Does not support voice calls, SMS or other recharges
• Google map, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LINE can be used.

Do you want to go to Vietnam but worried about internet access? In such cases, Vietnam eSIMs are the ideal solutions! With Vietnam eSIMs, you can freely connect to the internet overseas, including in Vietnam, by simply downloading an eSIM to your smartphone.

In this article, we provides a ultimate comparison of the best Vietnam eSim provides and up to date Vietnam eSim prices as April 2024. We also explain how to choose a Vietnam eSIM and its advantages and disadvantages for first-time users in an easy-to-understand manner . Please read until the end.

What is a eSIM?

An "eSIM" stands for Embedded SIM . Unlike traditional physical SIM cards, it refers to an electronic SIM that is built into the device . In Japan, eSIM-compatible devices were introduced in 2018, and since then the number of users has been rapidly increasing. Since the eSIM is built into the device, you don't have to worry about it bending or breaking like a physical card.

Traditional SIM cards need to be inserted into mobile devices such as cell phones and smartphones, requiring you to remove the back cover of the cell phone and insert it into a specific slot. The biggest difference lies in form, size, and the hassle of replacement.

Best Vietnam eSIM for Tourists

*Price is based on June 2024

Comparison of Top Vietnam eSIM Providers

There are various Vietnam eSIMs for travelling to Singapore with different data plan and days available. Here are 5 best Vietnam eSIM providers that sell cheap Vietnam eSIM for tourists:

Trip.com Vietnam eSIM

• 600 MB/Day data for 3 days = US $2.50
• 600 MB/Day data for 7 days = US $4.25
• 600 MB/Day data for 15 days = US $6.33
• 1.5 GB/Day data for 5 days = US $4.66
• 1.5 GB/Day data for 7 days = US $5.51
• 1.5 GB/Day data for 15 days = US $9.07

Trip.com provides an extensive selection of eSIM choices for travelers seeking quick, cost-effective, and adaptable mobile data plans in Singapore. The options range from 600 MB daily to 1.5 GB daily, ensuring there's a plan for every one. Whether your stay in Vietnam is for a single day or up to 30 days, you can select the plan that best fits your travel needs. These eSIM plans are extremely economical, making it affordable and convenient to stay connected during your trip.

Trip.com not only offers a broad range of eSIM plans but also delivers outstanding customer service. It offers 24/7 customer support to help you with any problems you may have during your trip to Vietnam. Whether you need assistance with using your eSIM or face any difficulties during your journey, Trip.com's committed team is always here to help you.

Trip.com Vietnam eSIM Plan Detail

• Network Operator: gohub
• Coverage: Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia
• 4G / LTE Speed: This data plan is expected to have 4G speed.
• Data only: Does not support calls or SMS
• Validity: Have to be installed on your phone within 30 days
• Expiry Date: Expiry will start after activation. For example, if you activate a 7-day plan on Jan 1, 2024, it will expire on Jan 8, 2024.

Nomad Vietnam eSIM

• 5 GB data for 30 days = US $13.00
• 10 GB data for 30 days = US $19.00
• 15 GB data for 30 days = US $26.00

Nomad eSIM allows users to connect to the internet in different countries without needing a physical SIM card. It can be activated directly from a user's smartphone and offers flexible data plans. Nomad eSIM is designed to provide a seamless and convenient internet connection for travelers, eliminating the need for buying local SIM cards or relying on public Wi-Fi. The Nomad eSIMs are from Joytel and they are data-only. Incoming and outgoing calls and sms are NOT supported . They operate on the LTE/4G network of Mobifone.

Nomad Vietnam eSIM Plan Detail

• Nomad Provider: Joytel
• Coverage: Vietnam
• Available Network: Mobifone

SimOptions Vietnam eSIM

• 1 GB data for 7 days = US $5.90
• 6 GB data for 10 days = US $17.90
• 10 GB data for 30 days = US $39.90

SimOptions is a relaible online platform that specializes in providing eSIM and mobile data solutions for travelers. The company aims to offer convenient and cost-effective alternatives to expensive roaming charges by providing SIM cards that can be used in multiple countries. Compared with Nomad Vietnam eSIMs, SimOptions Vietnam eSIMs are more expensive. And like Nomad, SimOptions eSIM do not offer incoming/outgoing calls or sms services .

SimOptions Vietnam eSIM Features

• 24/7 customer support
• Validity: Have to be installed on your phone within 1 year

Airalo Vietnam eSIM

• 1 GB data for 7 days = US $4.50
• 2 GB data for 15 days = US $7.00
• 20 GB data for 30 days = US $32.00

Airalo offers various eSIM services for smartphones, allowing users to connect to the internet in different countries without needing a physical SIM card. The company provides access to mobile data plans in over 200 countries worldwide, offering affordable and convenient connectivity solutions for travelers. Users can easily switch between different eSIMs through the Airalo app, eliminating the need to buy local SIM cards when traveling abroad. Compared with Nomad and SimOptions, Airalo operate on the best mobile data network in Vietnam: Viettel. All the Airalo eSIMs are data-only, so any phone/sms service is NOT supported .

Airalo Vietnam eSIM Plan Detail

• Available Network: Viettel&Mobifone

Holafly Vietnam eSIM

• Unlimited data for 1 days = US $6.00
• Unlimited data for 3 days = US $13.00
• Unlimited data for 10 days = US $37.00

Holafly is a reputable and user-friendly foreign eSIM provider, offering eSIM options for travelers who require constant mobile data access. The eSIMs can be purchased and activated digitally, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards. Holafly provides quality cellular data services abroad with seamless connectivity and 24/7 customer service. Payment methods include Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and credit and debit cards .

Holafly Vietnam eSIM Plan Detail

• Networks: Mobifone/Vinaphone
• Payment Method: Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and credit and debit cards.

What is the cheapest eSIM for Vietnam?

The cheapest Vietnam eSim is Trip.com's 1 day plan for 600 MB, it costs only USD 1.92, which is extremely cheap among other eSIM providers.

3 reasons why Trip.com's eSIM is recommended

1. Because it's cheap

Trip.com's eSIM offers a variety of plans for travel to Vietnam.

With the 1-day plan of 500MB/day, it costs for USD 1.23, which is extremely cheap. Even the 7-day plan, it only costs USD 3.49, so you can use it with peace of mind. If you don't plan to use it that much, we recommend the 500MB/day plan.

2. Because it has good reviews

There are many eSIMs for Vietnam, but Trip.com's eSIM has received high ratings from users.

• It connected immediately!
• Easy even for the first time
• I was saved by the support

Here are some voices from people who used Trip.com's eSIM for Vietnam.

User's voice

I went to the World Heritage site, Hongnyakebanhe. I had researched in advance that if I didn't choose one of the three major carriers (Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone), I would definitely be out of range, so I was looking for a compatible sim when I found this one. Wintel is an MVNO of Vinaphone, so as expected, the signal was strong and it was comfortable even in the countryside.

I was worried because the price was too low, but the communication speed was fast and it was very easy to use. If you are going to travel to Vietnam, I recommend this eSIM!

We have entered an era when you don't have to bother to find and buy a great SIM locally. It is easy to open and cheap. Use it as a W SIM on your iPhone. On the contrary, you can't avoid using this on your trip.

3. Because there is 24-hour customer support

Trip.com is always ready to respond to any unexpected situations. Professional customer support is available 24/7, providing optimal support and solutions. Support is provided in multiple languages, including Japanese, English, and Chinese, so it is chosen by many people.

Whether it's eSIM or any travel trouble, leave it all to Trip.com!

3 benefits of using eSIM in Vietnam

1. Convenient for changes and procedures

By using an eSIM, you no longer need to exchange physical SIM cards. The procedure at the store is simplified when switching to a new plan or trying a different carrier.

2. High convenience for travelers

When traveling to Vietnam, you can use a local prepaid plan even for a short stay. You can save the trouble of buying a physical SIM card, and you don't need to switch back to another plan after returning home. It's perfect as a temporary means of communication for short-term travelers and residents visiting Vietnam.

3. Easy to manage communication charges

Prepaid plans for travelers to Vietnam allow you to charge credit in advance and use it, so you don't have to worry about overuse. It's easy to manage calls and data communication within your budget, and you can avoid unexpected high bills.

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3 disadvantages of using eSIM in Vietnam

1. Limitations on compatible carriers

eSIM is not yet widely adopted, and not all communication carriers support eSIM. Therefore, the carriers you can use may be limited.

2. Device restrictions

To use an eSIM, you need a compatible device. Be careful as older models and some devices may not support eSIM.

3. Restrictions when offline

Since eSIM is digital, if your device is offline due to, for example, a dead battery, communication may be limited. Unlike physical SIM cards, it requires power.

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3 Tips for Choosing an Vietnam eSIM

1. Reviews and Reputation

By checking the reviews and reputation of other users on the internet, you can learn about their actual usage experiences. Do thorough research to obtain information about the quality of carrier support, communication speed, etc.

2. Plan Details and Fees

Check the details of the usage plan, including call charges, data capacity, and expiration date. Choose a plan that suits your usage situation, such as plans that support communication both inside and outside Vietnam, or plans for long-term stays.

3. Variety of Carriers

There are multiple communication carriers in Vietnam. Compare the usage area, communication quality, plan price, data capacity, etc., and choose a carrier that suits your needs. It is important to choose a reliable carrier.

How to Set Up an eSIM for Immediate Use in Vietnam

Before purchasing an eSIM product from Trip.com, please check if your mobile phone can use eSIM.

Trip.com's eSIM is compatible with a wide range of models, from the latest iPhones to popular Samsung series and Google Pixel. Please check your model before using it.

[List of Compatible Models]

Period Valid for 30 days from the date of reservation completion. Limited to one-time use.

What's Included in the Fee

eSIM + Data

About Installation

1. Please check the QR code displayed in the eSIM activation email.

2. Go to "Settings" on your smartphone's home screen and select "Mobile Data" (iOS) or "Sim Card Management" (Android).

3. After agreeing to install "Mobile Data" (iOS) or "Sim Card Management" (Android), you can install it by reading the QR code displayed in the activation email.

1. After installation, turn off your existing Sim card.

2. When using "Mobile Data" (iOS) or "Sim Card Management" (Android), the LTE icon will be displayed in the upper right corner.

3. You can communicate by turning on data roaming.

4. If you are not connected to the network after the above operations, switch airplane mode on and off or restart your smartphone.

About Termination

Tap "Mobile Data" (iOS) or "Sim Card Management" (Android) and switch it to invalid (the same procedure applies for activation).

Methods to Check if your device supports Vietnam eSIM

Which is Convenient in Vietnam? eSIM, SIM Card, Wi-Fi Router Comparison

SIM cards can be used without worrying about charging like a Wi-Fi router, and they don't add much to your luggage. You can choose from many plans. However, there are disadvantages such as complicated settings and the need for a SIM-free smartphone.

Wi-Fi routers allow multiple people to share and connect to multiple devices just by setting them up after arrival. However, there may be issues with battery life, the hassle of handing over, and increased costs. eSIMs do not require a physical SIM card, so there is no worry of loss or damage. The setup is relatively simple, but the compatible smartphones are limited.

Below, we have summarized the three characteristics and precautions in a table.

Frequently Asked Questions When Using eSIM in Vietnam

Do you recommend any eSIMs for long-term stays in Vietnam?

In Vietnam, there are two main types of SIM cards: "disposable SIM cards" and "prepaid SIM cards", and you can choose whether or not to have a phone number. Prepaid eSIMs, which require a deposit each time, are popular among long-term residents.

What are the device compatibility requirements when using eSIM in Vietnam?

First, you need to check whether the device you are using supports eSIM. When using eSIM, you need to add the profile settings provided by the carrier to the device. You also need to check whether the device correctly accepts the profile.

Are there any plans for eSIM in Vietnam that allow voice calls?

There are plans that allow not only data communication but also voice calls. As the pricing system and call charges vary depending on the carrier, we recommend checking detailed information on each carrier's official website or store.

What kind of data capacity is provided in Vietnam's eSIM plans?

Depending on the carrier and plan, a variety of data capacities are provided, ranging from 1GB to 5GB suitable for light web surfing and messaging, to more than 20GB necessary for heavy data usage.

For other frequently asked questions, click here. ➡ About eSIM Precautions

If You Want to Enjoy Your Trip to Vietnam, eSIM is a Must-Have Item!

If you're planning a trip to Vietnam, an eSIM is definitely a must-have item. To fully enjoy Vietnam, you need constant access to the internet. From hotel reservations to map usage, to searching for local recommendations, a smooth communication environment will make your trip more comfortable and fulfilling.

Trip.com's eSIM is supported by many travelers for its reliability and convenience. Why not take this opportunity to try Trip.com's eSIM?

• 1. What is a eSIM?
• 2. Best Vietnam eSIM for Tourists
• 3. Comparison of Top Vietnam eSIM Providers
• 4. What is the cheapest eSIM for Vietnam?
• 5. 3 reasons why Trip.com's eSIM is recommended
• 6. 3 benefits of using eSIM in Vietnam
• 7. Trending eSIMs for Other Countries
• 8. 3 disadvantages of using eSIM in Vietnam
• 9. 3 Tips for Choosing an Vietnam eSIM
• 10. How to Set Up an eSIM for Immediate Use in Vietnam
• 11. Methods to Check if your device supports Vietnam eSIM
• 12. Which is Convenient in Vietnam? eSIM, SIM Card, Wi-Fi Router Comparison
• 13. Frequently Asked Questions When Using eSIM in Vietnam
• 14. If You Want to Enjoy Your Trip to Vietnam, eSIM is a Must-Have Item!

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