Bratislava is a capital city that does not claim to be the best in Europe. However, it is very cozy, has a unique charm and charms at first sight. Where is Bratislava located?
The city is located on the banks of the Danube, next to the Lesser Carpathians, not far from Vienna, Prague and Budapest. It was once called Presburg and was the capital of Hungary, and 11 kings received the crown in its cathedral. Today the capital of Slovakia is actively developing, it is the center of cultural and economic life. Consider further what will be interesting for a tourist to see in Bratislava.
Old city
It surprises its guests with its special atmosphere and numerous attractions. It is the historical and administrative center of the capital, which houses government buildings, foreign embassies and architectural monuments. It is preferable to go to this area of the city on foot and set aside one day to get to know it, so that you can take a leisurely stroll through the old streets and fully enjoy its unique flavor. The old town of Bratislava is the pride of the country, be sure to visit it.
Main square
The city center is the business card of Bratislava, featuring an amazing architectural ensemble. Buildings in different styles were built on the Main Square: Baroque, Gothic, Classicism, numerous cafeterias, restaurants, shops are open, places for comfortable walks are provided, and in the old days the square served as the center of market trade.
The square is decorated with Roland's fountain. On holidays, exhibitions, concerts are held here, fairs are organized. A skating rink is open during the winter season. Finding the Main Square is not difficult, it is located at Bratislava, Hlavnу nаmestie.
Bratislava Castle
What to see in Bratislava from the sights? Of course, Bratislava Castle over the Danube bank. The castle is a monument of the history of Slovakia, was reconstructed and restored in the second half of the XX century. Today it occupies one of the positions in the list of national cultural monuments of the country. The museum is open all days of the week except Monday. Entrance fee is 7 €, permission for photography is 2 € .. The building is painted white and can be seen from different parts of the city. In the dark, the palace is illuminated by spotlights and looks especially impressive.
The monumental building is surrounded by a beautiful park area, built in the form of a regular quadrangle with a spacious courtyard. And its architecture is distinguished by a mixture of styles. On the territory there is the Slovak Archaeological Museum with valuable exhibits from different eras, they will tell about the way of life and life of the past.
You can get there by bus # 203 and 207 to the Zámocká stop, by tram # 1,9,10 to the Kapucínska stop.
- Would you like to take a walk around Bratislava on foot?
Monument to the Plumber in Bratislava
Among the sights of Bratislava, photos and descriptions of which are contained in any information sources, the original monument to the plumber is certainly noted. The sculpture has a double meaning: on the one hand, it is a dedication to the profession, and on the other, it is the memory of the war, when the local population was forced to hide in sewer manholes to escape enemy bombing.
The monument is the creation of sculptor Viktor Gulik, who also named it "Chumil", which means "onlooker".
Roland's fountain
If you want to see the sights of Bratislava in one day, do not forget to walk to the Roland Fountain, built in 1572. The fountain is installed on the Main Square. It is a column with a statue of a knight dressed in armor. In the Middle Ages, the structure was part of the water supply system, and now meetings and dates are made near it.
Old town hall
It is an architectural complex in the Romanesque style, which reflects the history of Bratislava. Previously, the ball was built in the Gothic style, but suffered an earthquake, and was reconstructed with the addition of Renaissance and Baroque elements. Located between the main square of Bratislava and the Primas square. The object was built in 1200 (XIII century). Initially, it belonged to the local mayor, but after the completion of construction it became the city property. Then the adjacent buildings were also added to the construction. They are made in different styles and are fraught with a lot of interesting things.
The cost of an adult ticket is 5 €. We look at all the necessary information at https://muzeum.bratislava.sk/
Grassalkovich Palace or Presidential Palace
It was erected in the 18th century (1760) for the count, whose last name he is now called. The count was known as a ball lover and often invited famous musicians, among whom was the composer Haydn. Now this palace is the residence of the Slovak President. If your time in the capital is limited and you don't know what to see in Bratislava in one day, take a walk to the Baroque Grassalkovich Palace.
The park area is open to tourists. Address: Hodžovo námestie 2978/1.
Mikhailovskie gates
Only one fragment remains from this ancient building to this day. The exact time of the construction of the ancient landmark is not known for certain. However, most researchers believe that it was erected in the 14th century. In 1759, the Mikhailovsky Gate was reconstructed in the Baroque style. It is from this ancient fortification that the city of Bratislava begins.
Devin Castle
The ancient ruins of the Devin Castle Fortress are another item on the list of the country's national cultural monuments. Attracts the attention of history buffs. The structure was built on a steep cliff over two hundred meters high in the form of a fortress, on the site where the Murava and Danube rivers merge. The castle was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt. After the attack of Napoleon, the citadel was badly damaged, and only ruins remained from it. However, they are visited by many tourists who want to touch the history and admire the beautiful panorama. Near the castle there is a wine-making village with wine halls and cellars.
What to see in Bratislava and its surroundings? Of course, Devin Castle, located ten kilometers from the central quarters of the capital.
Beautiful landscapes, which you can enjoy from the walls of the fortress, are mesmerizing. Devin Castle is open to visitors at Muranska ulica, Bratislava 841 10, from 10.00 to 16.00. The entrance ticket costs only 5 €.
Memorial complex Slavin
Talking about the monuments of Bratislava, you should definitely note this grandiose creation dedicated to the memory of the soldiers who gave their lives in the struggle for freedom in World War II. The complex is the result of collaboration between sculptor Trizulyak and architect Svetlik.
The structure is installed on a hill and is presented in the form of three components: stairs with bas-reliefs, graves, sculptures and a funeral hall, where paintings with scenes of bloody battles are exhibited. The dimensions are impressive, the majestic stele of the memorial is more than 40 meters high and the 10-meter figure of a soldier with a flag. The surroundings are decorated with bronze statues.
Not far from the complex there is an open cemetery where the fallen heroes of the country are buried. The entrance to the memorial complex Slavin is free, located at Bratislava, Slavin Hill. The nearest street is Pazickeho.
What to do in Slovakia in winter?
Few people know, but in winter in Slovakia you can go skiing inexpensively. We hasten to note that the beauty of the ski resorts is no worse than the Austrian ones.
We recommend visiting the resorts: Jasna, Tatranska Lomnica, Jezersko - Bachledova Dolina, Stary Smokovec.
Lake Golden Sands
If you are lucky enough to explore the interesting places of Bratislava in the summer, you should definitely visit the Golden Sands Lake.This reservoir is clean and suitable for swimming and beach recreation in Slovakia. In the middle there is a picturesque island with dense deciduous vegetation. On the lake there is a rental point for water paraphernalia for outdoor activities, the beaches are equipped with everything necessary for the comfort of visitors. There is a shopping center and a casino nearby. Music festivals are periodically held in the surrounding area.
Primate's Palace
A neoclassical building that delights with its beauty. Its light pink façade matches the yellow trim of the window openings wonderfully. The palace is decorated with a coat of arms and a huge cardinal's hat located on its roof.
Among all the premises of the mansion, the Hall of Mirrors stands out, in which a peace agreement was signed by Napoleon and the Emperor of Austria. The interiors of the palace premises are decorated with tapestries, and the oldest city fountain is installed in the courtyard of the building.
The Primate's Palace is exactly what it is recommended to see in Bratislava in 1 day.
We recommend interesting sightseeing tours:
- An entertaining excursion entitled “The Amazing Legends of Bratislava” invites you to plunge into the mysterious world of urban beliefs about devils and giants, heroic knights and water spirits. You can walk around interesting places and get to know Bratislava from an unknown side, accompanied by a Russian-speaking guide, for 72 €.
- You can walk through the ruins of the medieval Devin castle and plunge into the atmosphere of bygone times with the excursion “Courage and Love of Devin Castle”. A journey through different eras of the castle's existence, seasoned with heroic and love legends, will cost only 70 € per tour.
- With the excursion "The Millennial City" you can get acquainted with the main sights of the Old Town of Bratislava. The accompaniment of a Russian-speaking guide with a good weight of knowledge guarantees clear stories and facts about buildings and interesting places. The cost of the program is 60 €.
Gallery Nedbalka
The local art gallery is housed in a baroque house. On four floors of the building, sculptures and paintings by Slovak artists who have been working since the 19th century are exhibited. All works are very interesting and deserve attention, so if you are a fan of artistic creation, you will not be worried about where to go and what to see in Bratislava.
Slovak National Theater
One of the interesting places in Bratislava is the Slovak National Theater. This magnificent architectural monument, located in the center of the Old Town, was founded in 1920. Occupies two buildings. One of them was built in the neo-Renaissance style and is located on Hvezdoslav Square. The second building was opened in 2007 on the banks of the Danube. Both venues present opera works, ballet, dramatic performances to the audience and belong to the same administration.
The old theater building is distinguished by a luxurious project, the creators of which were the Austrians. The new theater has much better acoustics and a more comfortable auditorium. If you are connoisseurs of art, then for sure you do not have to think about where to go in Bratislava.
All information about ticket prices, schedule and details of work can be found on the official website www.snd.sk.
TV tower Kamzik
A design that can be seen from every corner of the country. The TV tower was installed at the beginning of the forest-park zone on Kamzik Hill. It was built in 1975 and its height is 196 m.
The high-tech building is equipped with an observation deck located at an altitude of 70 m. On the territory of the TV tower there is a fashionable restaurant and a bistro where you can have an inexpensive and tasty snack.
Bratislava Zoo
Attractions of Bratislava in Slovakia - it is also a local zoo, covering an area of 96 hectares, was opened in 1960. Over a thousand representatives of the animal world live on the territory of the reserve in open-air cages and open spaces. The animals that live in spacious corrals will surely please your child. Tigers and wolves, monkeys and hyenas, camels and bears - they are all favorites of the public. On the territory of the zoo there is a rope park and climbing wall, as well as many cafes and places for a pleasant stay.
The cost of a ticket for an adult is 7 €, for children 5 €, you can get there by bus number 30, 31, 32, 37, 39 to the Zoo stop of the same name. They have an office. website: www.zoobratislava.sk/.
Younger guests of the zoo especially enjoy visiting Dinopark, which features interactive exhibits of dinosaurs that can rotate their heads and tails. The zoo also has a children's complex.
- Inexpensive housing:
Apollo bridge
The main metropolitan highway connecting the banks of the Danube. The bent arch structure was built in 2005. The bridge is distinguished by its complex shape and the absence of sharp corners. On a sunny day, it casts glare beautifully, and looks no less gorgeous in night illumination.
Transport Museum
If you are interested in the museums of Bratislava, visit this attraction located on the territory of the capital's railway station. The museum presents a collection of steam locomotives, platforms and railway tracks in their original form. The ZIL-115 limousine, a car of the communist elite, is exhibited here, as well as such vintage representatives as Tatra, Skoda, Prague.
Botanical Garden
Belongs to the Comenius University. It is located on the left bank of the Danube, away from tourist routes, but it is never empty. More than 120 types of roses grow in the garden, there is a garden of orchids, cacti, ferns, palms, tropical and exotic plants.
In the warm season, it is visited by many guests who want to enjoy the aromas of flowers and bright colors of nature.
The Botanical Garden is open from April to October, so if you are in the country during this period and are thinking about what to visit in Bratislava, you can safely go on an excursion to a piece of paradise.
Fact! Few people know, but the first botanical garden appeared in the 17th century in the residence of the Archbishop of Liepaja.
Blue church
Also called the Church of St. Elizabeth. The temple was built more than a hundred years ago, initially there was a chapel for a gymnasium. The architect of the building was Eden Lechner, who in the forefront began the struggle for the independence of Hungary.
The facade of the building is made in a light blue shade, covered with ceramic tiles, decorated with beautiful stucco molding. If you are wondering what else to see in Bratislava, head to the Blue Church.
Cathedral of Saint Martin
Consecrated in 1452, St. Martin's Cathedral resembles a Viennese church in style and can be found in the Old Town. The temple is distinguished by the Gothic style. Coronations in the Kingdom of Hungary took place on its territory. Until 1830, 11 persons were crowned in the cathedral. To confirm the status of the temple, a copy of St. Stephen's crown was installed on the roof. Still not decided what to do in Bratislava? Walk through the Old Town and visit the legendary Cathedral of St. Martin. The cathedral is considered one of the largest and most beautiful cultural monuments in Slovakia. Of site: dom.fara.sk.
St. Stephen's Capuchin Church
Not far from the Old Town, in the center of upna Square, the Capuchin Church of St. Stephen stands majestically. The monument is decorated with a stele with a statue of the Madonna. The building, built in the 18th century, is distinguished by a solemn view; there are cafes and shops around. Address: Župné námestie 11, 811 03.
SEC "Eurovia Mall"
Built in the industrial area of the capital, located on the left bank of the Danube. The mall is a huge residential complex, which, in addition to residential buildings, also includes retail outlets, cafes, restaurants and other entertainment establishments.
Eurovia Mall has become a symbol of the region's prosperity. In front of him, they laid out flower beds and organized a walking area along the embankment.
Entertainment center Space World
Where to go in Bratislava in the evening with the whole family with older children? We advise you to definitely go to the entertainment center Space World with its state-of-the-art laser paintball.The center has several play locations of different difficulty levels. There is also a games room with a variety of board games, billiards and an excellent cafe. As for prices and working hours, see the website www.spaceworld.sk.
Lanoland Sports Center
Active family leisure is offered by Lanoland. The sports and entertainment complex offers guests a lot of attractions and obstacle courses made of rope attributes. Located in a park area, the center offers entertainment for all age categories of visitors. Website www.lanoland.sk
And if the impressions of an active family vacation are not enough, you can visit the DinoPark with its Dinosaurs, or visit the Bratislava Museum of Local Lore.
Craft beer brewery
There are several hundred craft beer breweries in the capital, among which Mestianski Pivovar is especially popular. The company has been producing a frothy drink since 1752 and owns two stores in the central part of the city.
For independent travelers:
- A selection of cheap housing
- How to get to Vienna inexpensively
Bridge SNP
Initially, the structure laid across the Danube was called "New Bridge", and later it was renamed into the Bridge of the "Slovak National Uprising". The bridge has no supports in the water, and it is the longest suspension rope structure in the world (over 400 meters). For tourists, the building is one of the main attractions, which is worth visiting first of all after visiting the city center. For the sake of erecting such a structure in the 70s of the 20th century, an entire Jewish quarter with historical buildings was demolished in the capital.
A building resembling a flying saucer was erected on the pillar of the bridge, and a restaurant was opened at an altitude of 84 m, as well as an observation deck (one of the best in Europe) with a magnificent view of the city. In any guide to Bratislava, you can always read information about this attraction.
We advise lovers of local cuisine to visit the restaurant, the prices are touristy, but ordering coffee and enjoying the evening view will be inexpensive. In good weather, many tourists arrange photo sessions on the observation deck.
The structure of the bridge is recognized as the construction of the century in Slovakia, and the structure itself is included in the list of the World Federation of High-Rise Towers.
Janko Crash Park
An old city park, laid out in 1776. Over the entire period of its existence, many trees have grown on its territory. Now bicentennial poplars, willows, ash trees, plane trees, sequoias and other trees grow here. There is a gothic-style gazebo in the park - its man-made highlight.
If you come to Bratislava in winter and want to see its sights, visit the Jan Kráš Park and you, as if you will visit a fabulous snow-white kingdom. Trees at this time are covered with fluffy snow and sparkle in the sun.
Church of the Holy Spirit
Outside, it does not look like a religious building at all, and its spire is often compared to the Moscow monument to the Conquerors of Space. The church was built in a modern style, but its interior design fully complies with the Catholic canons. The church was erected in 2002, and the stone at its entrance was consecrated by John Paul II.
Video review of interesting places in the city and surroundings
Excursions in Bratislava in Russian
Where to eat tasty and inexpensive?
At this point, we have compiled our list of the best restaurants in Bratislava, where you can not only dine, but also end the day after long walks in a cozy atmosphere. Fans of gastro travel will be especially useful to visit at least one of the listed places. Want to try the local cuisine?
- An overview of places where you can have a tasty time will start with a cozy restaurant "Grand Cru Wine Gallery " (wine bar) on Zamocnicka 8. Specializes in an excellent selection of local wines and a wealth of sommelier knowledge. If you come to Slovakia for the delicate taste of this drink, be sure to visit.
- Quiet restaurant in the city center «GLOBO Restaurant & Wine Bar " at Frantiskanske namestie 7. Ideal for an evening dinner with a family or company. A good selection of local wines and a decent menu, the average bill for two will be about 4,500 rubles.
- One of the tourist places is the restaurant "Hradna Hviezda " at the Bratislava Castle Museum (western terrace) on A. Dubceka Street 1. Prices are high and are intended for tourists. The place is not remarkable, except for its location and interior of the Middle Ages. But, the traditional cuisine deserves your tasting.
- "Houdini Restaurant" at the hotel Marrol's Boutique Hotel on Tobrucka street 4. First of all we recommend for a romantic dinner. All dishes are prepared by professionals, perfect presentation, chic interior and cozy atmosphere. The average bill will be higher than that of all other restaurants in the city, but you have to pay for the taste. Dinner for two will cost about 6,500 rubles.
- If you decide to take a walk through the sights of the Old Town of Bratislava, be sure to check out the restaurant "Koliba Kamzík " at Zelena 5 Bratislava. It is inexpensive and you can eat here anytime. The interior is cozy and laconic, but we advise this institution, first of all, for those who like to sit at a table on the street, especially in the evening. The average bill for a dinner for two is about 2300 rubles.
- For delicious local beer and meat snacks, we go to “Bratislavsky Mestiansky Pivovar " on the street Drevena 8. Here you can order cold cuts and drink several types of traditional beer. The average check is about 1,700 rubles.
- Well, for lovers of desserts, we definitely recommend the cafe “Konditorei Kormuth " on Sedlarska 8. When you visit this establishment, desserts will fade into the background from the interior you see. What is unusual here? Painted walls, medieval tea set, unique furniture and other items to surprise you. One slice of delicious pie will cost about 5 euros or 400 rubles.
Houdini Restaurant
Advice! Be sure to buy local food in the supermarket as a souvenir or gift for your loved ones. champagne Hubert and Tatratea tea.
Cheap hotels in Bratislava
Walking route in Bratislava on your own for 1, 2 and 3 days
In Bratislava, there is something to see on your own, you just need to think over the route of the walk for maximum information content in the shortest possible time, so:
- IN first day recommend to see Old city: Michael's Gate, churches and cathedrals, statues and fountains, beautiful streets and cozy cafes for relaxation - there is something to see in Bratislava in 1 day in this beautiful area with the whole family.
- Second day we advise you to devote to museums and architectural monuments, visit Devin Castle and enjoy the panoramic views from the Bridge of the Commonwealth of Independent States, having lunch at its famous restaurant. Visit the memorial complex Slavin and the military cemetery adjacent to its territory.
- The third day you should definitely devote yourself to an entertaining vacation, lie on the beach by the Golden Sands Lake, look into the entertainment center and play laser paintball, or go to the Slovak National Theater and join the bohemian culture of amazing Bratislava.
