Visiting Christmas Markets in Bratislava 2023

Visiting Christmas Markets around Europe is a perfect seasonal trip if you can stand the colder weather. But, deciding which markets to visit can be difficult! Especially if you’ve never been. The markets in Budapest and Vienna have strong reputations. But, the Christmas Markets in Bratislava are also worth visiting. And luckily, Bratislava is close to both!

This post will detail when the markets are, what to see, and what to eat. Plus, suggestions for planning your trip.

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Bratislava Christmas Market Dates for 2023

The Christmas markets in Bratislava are open from the last of November until December 23rd. They are open daily from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.

In 2023 they are scheduled to open on November 23rd.

Where are the Christmas Markets in Bratislava?

Like most things, Christmas Markets are starting to ramp back up since the pandemic. The Bratislava markets have changed a bit since the 2020 edition. This is what to expect in 2023.

Hlavné nám

First, you’ll find a Christmas Market in the main square. Here you’ll find a Christmas tree and a stage for performances. The tiny square gets busy so be prepared for the crowds. You’ll find food, drinks, and craft goods at this market. Take your time checking out all of the stalls and sipping on warm drinks. The drinks at the Hlavné nám Square were the most unique of any I had seen in Eastern Europe. It was so much more than the traditional mulled wine; though that was available too.

Hvienzdoslavovo Namestie

Hvienzdoslavovo Namestie is a promenade that feels like another town square. One end is capped by the Slovak National Theatre and the other ends at the SNP with the Danube nearby. Some years this square has an ice skating rink. In 2022, it was home to more food stalls and light displays!

Bratislava Castle

In 2022 the market at the castle wasn’t active. But, it seems slated to come back for the 2023 season. A Christmas Market with a backdrop of a stunning castle is one of the best ways to spend the season!

Other Things to Do in Bratislava in Winter

When you’re not visiting markets in Bratislava be sure to spend some time exploring the city. These are a few good places to start.

See the Little Blue Church

The Little Blue Church is on the outskirts of the old town. It’s a vibrant blue church with a beautiful architectural design. It doesn’t take long to walk over or to visit, but it’s worth the detour.

The interior of the church is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 2:30 pm- 5:00 pm.

Climb the Tower of the Old Town Hall

The Old Town Hall is now home to a museum; which is a great way to stay warm. But, you can also climb the tower for a spectacular view of the square with all of the stalls set up. It’s worth the €2. I missed this opportunity and really wish I hadn’t so I’m tipping you off now so you don’t miss out.

Kapitulska Street

Kapitulska Street is one of the old medieval streets. It’s narrow and you’ll notice the cobblestones are different than the rest of the city. It won’t take long to walk the short street. But, walking down it can take you back in time and remind you how much history is packed into the city.

Michael’s Gate

Michael’s Gate is the only remaining entrance to the medieval city. It’s been reconstructed a bit since medieval times. The white archway blends in so well. You can walk under it and miss the significance of what you’ve walked through. Be on the lookout for it.

Find Sculptures

There are various sculptures throughout Bratislava. The most popular one is “The Watcher”. It’s a statue of a man resting his head on his hands as he peers out at the crowds from a manhole cover. There are others dotted around the city. Try to find as many as you can.

Explore Bratislava Castle

Bratislava looms over the city and even if you aren’t heading up the hill to check out a Christmas market it’s worth the walk up to see the views of the city. The castle itself is charming and even more so when it’s decorated for the holidays.

There is a museum in the castle that you can visit if you’d like. It may be a bit warmer than it is outside. But, it’s not a must-see in the city. The castle grounds are open from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. daily.

Where to Stay to See Christmas Markets in Bratislava

It’s possible to see the Christmas Markets in Bratislava as a day trip from Vienna. Vienna is one of the more popular destinations for Christmas markets. So, it could make sense to just add a day to Vienna and train into Bratislava. The train ride is only about an hour and Bratislava is small. So, this is doable.

If you’re sleeping in Bratislava for a night or two there are several good hotel options.

 The Double Tree was a good points hotel but is far from the Old Town. You have to take public transit to get around. It’s nice to see a different part of the city but it does cut down on the time you have in the city since so much is spent traveling back to your accommodation.

These apartment-style rooms near the Old Town would be my pick if I was doing it again.

What to Eat in Bratislava

There is plenty of food at the Christmas Markets in Bratislava.

If you’re not gluten-free the Loksa’s were a popular pick with my travel friends. There are plenty of things to choose from!

If you’re gluten-free look for the allergy markings on some of the menus. If a menu has little numbers next to entrees that is a code indicating which allergens are present. A “1” means it includes gluten.

Try to find a baked potato stall for an easy lunch in the markets. It’s rare to be able to take advantage of eating in this environment so it’s fun to indulge!

There are other gluten-free restaurants around the city if you prefer to pop inside and get warm.

What to Buy at Christmas Markets in Bratislava

The markets in Bratislava are more food and drink than crafts; quite the opposite of some other cities. So, be sure to try some of the various warm drinks you’ll see.

Otherwise, look for trinkets, ornaments, and wool socks if you’re interested.

Adding Bratislava to your Christmas Market Itinerary

Bratislava is an hour from Vienna. So, it’s possible to visit for a day trip and not worry about moving your luggage between cities or changing hotels. Logistically, this is probably the easiest option.

Bratislava is also 3 hours from Budapest. So, it’s quite easy to train from Vienna to Bratislava. Spend a night in Bratislava. Then, train onward to Budapest for the rest of your trip.

Bratislava’s airport is small but it is well connected to the European continent by Ryan Air. This means you could start your trip from Bratislava if you’d like. Or, just fly in for a weekend.

But, the day trip option, or combining it with Budapest, makes the most sense to maximize your vacation time.

Bratislava Christmas Markets

Visiting Bratislava at Christmas is a wonderful way to see the city. It may be a bit colder but the Christmas Markets make the trip festive and fun.

It’s not so bad dealing with the cold when you’re sipping on a warm drink anyway.