by Gabriela Radimakova
I’m always surprised by how many people have never heard of Slovakia. Every summer, travelers planning trips to Eastern Europe tend to prioritize Budapest and Prague, often overlooking what’s right next door. Bratislava, the capital, is just a few minutes’ drive from both Austria and Hungary; when I was growing up, I’d go on bike rides into both countries.
1. Meet Bratislava’s quirkiest resident
Photo: Nikola Smernic
Bratislava’s Old Town is easy to explore at your own pace.
My favorite part of Bratislava is the Old Town. It’s compact and easy to explore on foot, especially on long summer days, making it possible to see a lot in a short space of time. One of its most unusual sights is Čumil, a bronze statue created by sculptor Viktor Hulík in 1997. Roughly translating to “the watcher,” he’s a workman peeking out of a manhole at the corner of Laurinská and Panská streets, quietly observing passers-by.
2. Take in the Danube from above
The Danube looks best from Bratislava’s UFO Bridge.
I always recommend walking across the UFO Bridge, a striking Communist-era structure spanning the Danube. Its flying-saucer-shaped pod houses an observation deck and restaurant with fantastic views across the city. In summer, the riverbanks below fill with locals enjoying the sunshine.
3. Cool off at Zlaté Piesky
Zlaté Piesky is one of Bratislava’s favorite summer escapes.
Bratislava has several lakes that become popular swimming spots when temperatures rise. One of my favorites is Zlaté Piesky, on the northeastern edge of the city, where you can swim, wakeboard, water ski, or simply relax by the water.
4. Try Slovakia’s national dish
Photo: Nikola Smernic
No visit to Slovakia is complete without halušky.
I firmly believe you get to know a place through its food. Slovakia’s national dish is bryndzové halušky: potato dumplings topped with sheep’s cheese and bacon. It’s hearty and traditionally associated with farmers, who ate it to fuel long days of physical work. I also recommend trying lokše, traditional potato flatbreads served with sweet or savory fillings.
My favorite place for both is the Bratislava Flagship, a former monastery where everything is made from scratch, portions are generous, and there’s even a brewery on site serving Slovak beers. In summer, its large outdoor terrace is a popular spot for people-watching over a leisurely lunch or drink.
5. Spend Saturday at the market
Bratislava’s markets are busiest on weekends.
Warm Saturdays are made for market hopping in Bratislava. Locals fill the city’s markets to shop, eat and catch up with friends. Head to the Old Market Hall to browse fresh local produce, or to the Fresh Market, which combines food stalls, independent vendors and casual restaurants under one roof.
6. Shop for something uniquely Slovak
Photo: Nikola Smernic
From honey to ceramics, Slovakia excels at souvenirs.
If you’re visiting Slovakia in summer, local honey makes an especially good souvenir. Freshly harvested acacia, wildflower, and forest varieties are widely available at markets between June and September. I also love the blue-and-white hand-painted ceramics produced in the town of Modra, or corn-husk figures, traditional folk decorations handmade from dried corn leaves.
7. Make time for Banská Štiavnica
Photo: Adrian Tync
Banská Štiavnica is one of Slovakia’s most charming towns.
One of my favorite day trips from Bratislava is the UNESCO-listed town of Banská Štiavnica. Once an important medieval mining town famous for its gold and silver, it’s now known for its pastel-colored buildings, charming streets, and underground mine tours.