What to Do in Bratislava: Top 11 Things to See – 2023

Bratislava is a perfect destination if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination that is easily accessible. It has all of Europe’s beauty and charm, a complex history, and a fraction of the crowds. Vacation time is precious, and we all want to make sure we use it well.

I was unsure that visiting Bratislava would be worth it. I’m so glad I went, even after a cold and rainy visit. This post details what to do in Bratislava: the top 11 things and some bonus ideas if you have more time.

Some of the links on the page are affiliate links. If you choose to purchase from one of the links, I earn money at no extra cost to you. I’ll only recommend brands I’ve used and love (or an alternative I would book myself). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I always pay for my own travel. I’ll be sure to let you know if that ever changes. If you choose to click through and purchase – thanks so much for the support!

1- Visit Bratislava Castle

Bratislava Castle is a huge white castle that overlooks the city. You can see the castle looming from anywhere in the Old Town.

The castle is impressive from below, and the views from the hill are spectacular. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Austria and Hungary. Even on a rainy day, the views were worth the walk up.

Explore the exterior of the castle for free. The grounds are open from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. daily. The walk up the hill is steep so take it slow. Or take a city bus to shorten the walk.

Note that getting up to the castle can involve wandering along some of the castle walls. Even though the path is well-marked, it’s a windy and confusing walk. It’s a fun adventure stepping through small doors as you walk along! A map app makes it much easier.

The Slovak National Museum is housed inside the castle. It’s open daily except Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. (5:00 p.m. final entry). An adult ticket is €12. But don’t feel like you have to go inside; the exterior is the highlight.

2- Admire the Little Blue Church

The Church of St. Elizabeth is now known as the Little Blue Church. It was originally built as a chapel for a nearby school. Keep your eyes open, and you’ll see the school in the same architectural style; it’s just not blue.

Seeing the exterior of the church is easy. But, it has very limited opening hours. It’s only open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 2:30 pm- 5:00 pm.

But you can still peek in and see some of the interiors even if it’s not officially open.

I was skeptical, but it also seemed so unique; I’m so glad I walked over. The walk isn’t long, and the church’s vibrant blue is unlike anything I’ve seen elsewhere. So, I think it’s worth it.

3- Wander through the Old Town

Bratislava’s Old Town is compact but full of charm. Wander through the cobblestone streets and window shop along the squares.

Hlavné nám is the main town square. It’s all the best of a European main square down to the ornate buildings lining the sides. It’s also the site of one of the large Christmas markets in the winter.

There is plenty to see in the Old Town but try to spend time just wandering around without a specific target. Popping in the shops is a fun way to spend time as well.

To learn the history of Bratislava, take a guided walking tour of the Old Town. It will take an hour or two, but your guide will give you the best information.

4- Walk Kapitulska Street

When you’re walking through the Old Town, be sure to navigate toward Kapitulksa Street. It’s a relatively short street, but it’s one of the medieval streets that makes you feel like you’re going back in time. The buildings that line it aren’t in pristine condition, which adds to the feel.

5- See St. Martin’s Cathedral

St Martin’s Cathedral is the oldest church in Bratislava. It was used for the coronations of kings from 1563 to 1830.

Head inside if you enjoy seeing cathedrals. Walk by the exterior, at the very least.

6- Walk under Michael’s Gate

Michael’s Gate is a city gate from the medieval city. The gate was first constructed around 1300 but the one there now was reconstructed in 1758. It’s a white tower with an archway you can walk under.

If you’re not aware of what it is you can walk under it and totally miss that it’s so special. But it’s worth checking out.

7- Climb the Old Town Hall Tower

The Old Town Hall is in the city’s main square. The building now holds a museum; complete with a torture equipment section.

But you can climb the tower of the building! I didn’t know, and I missed the €2 opportunity for an amazing picture. The photos you see overlooking Bratislava’s town square are taken from this tower; it’s especially beautiful during the Christmas market season.

8- See UFO Tower

UFO Tower is really a pillar on a bridge that crosses the Danube- the Most SNP. The bridge crosses the Danube and you can see it from Bratislava Castle.

It has an observation deck and restaurant at the top for a view of the city from a different viewpoint. The architecture is unique and a fun contrast to the architecture in the Old Town. The best part of this viewpoint is that you can get Bratislava Castle in the photo. It’s always nice to get the most iconic images from a city.

9- Go on a Sculpture Hunt

There are several fun sculptures dotted around the Old Town of Bratislava. The most famous one is “The Watcher,” a sculpture of a man looking out at the streets from a manhole.

There are also sculptures of a soldier from Napeleon’s army and one of Hans Christian Anderson. A statue called “Paparazzi” is in the UFO restaurant.

Be on the lookout for more of them as you wander through Bratislava.

10- Stroll through Hvienzdoslavovo Namestie

Hvienzdoslavovo Namestie is a city park. It’s more of a promenade lined with beautiful buildings. The Slovak National Theatre is on one end and the Hans Christian Anderson statue is on the other.

The Slovak National Gallery is along one of the sides.

This is a pedestrian promenade that is similar to a town square. Check out the mosaics lining the ground near the Slovak National Theatre.

11- Walk by the Presidential Palace

The Presidential Palace is a beautiful white building that used to be a palace. It’s been restored and is now the seat of the government of Slovakia. So, you won’t able to tour inside of it but it’s beautiful enough that it’s worth a quick walk by the front of the building.

What to Do in Bratislava- Other Options

With more time in Bratislava, there are a few other things to consider with your time.

In Bratislava

The Primatial Palace was a palace in the 18th century. The elaborate building is not the office of the mayor of Bratislava. It’s also up to the public as a museum. They even hold council meetings in the hall of mirrors! You won’t go to council meetings and you don’t even have to visit the interior of the building. But, at least check out the exterior.

The Slavin Memorial is a military cemetery. It honors the Soviet soldiers who died liberating the city during World War II. It’s not an uplifting memorial but it is helpful to look back on the complicated history of Bratislava.

Near Bratislava- Devin Castle

Devin Castle is a 20-minute drive outside of Bratislava. The castle was first mentioned in writings around 864- but it’s been through several stages.

Since the Danube and the Morova Rivers meet here, it’s been an important trade route for the area.

Now, the castle is mostly in ruins, but you can still tour it. Look for the maiden tower, a tiny tower standing on its own near the water.

It will take 50 minutes to get to the castle using public transit. So, consider a taxi or rideshare to get you there. Especially if you’re short on time.

Seasonal

Bratislava is well-known for its Christmas markets. The main squares are lined with festive stalls selling food, drinks, and trinkets. Of the markets I visited, Bratislava had the widest selection of unique drinks.

A warm mojito or mule-style drink was a welcome change to the mulled wine served in every other market.

Bratislava is cold in winter, but it should be an addition to your Christmas market vacation. Even if it’s just a day trip from Vienna, it’s worth it.

Getting to Bratislava

Bratislava is well connected to the rest of Europe by train.

Vienna is a 1-hour train ride away. So, Bratislava is an easy day trip.

Budapest is 3 hours away.

You can add Bratislava to an itinerary with Vienna and Budapest. This is a great option in winter so you can see all of the markets.

Bratislava’s airport is on the smaller side. But, it is well-connected to the European continent by Ryan Air.

Where to Stay in Bratislava

Hotels in Bratislava are affordable. The Double Tree was a good option (especially with points), but it is far from the Old Town. You have to take public transit to get anywhere, which makes it difficult to find when you arrive initially. But it is nice to see a different part of the city.

There are apartment-style rooms near the Old Town that I would pick the next time I go to Bratislava.

Enjoy Visiting Bratislava

Bratislava isn’t on the radar for many tourists right now, which makes it even more fun to visit! You don’t need a long time to explore the city, but you won’t regret the trip. It’s a European town that shows up without any pretense.

Enjoy your trip, and let me know what you think!