Slovakia is the capital of which country. Slovakia is an inconspicuous country in the center of Europe, but very attractive for tourists

There are ski resorts on the territory of many parks. One of the most beautiful local national parks is the High Tatras, the main territory of which is covered with coniferous forests and numerous lakes. There are several climatic resorts and a well-developed tourist infrastructure on the territory of the park.

A popular destination for recreation in Slovakia is combining it with medical procedures in resorts and holiday homes based on the site of thermal and mineral springs. In total, there are over 1000 such springs in Slovakia and over 20 specialized spas. Popular health resorts: Piestany, Smrdaki, Dudince, Rajecke Teplice, Bardeevskie Fonts .

Slovakia is surrounded by the Western Carpathians, the highest point of the country, the Gerlachovski Shtit peak, reaches a height of 2655 meters. Those who love mountains and outdoor activities should come to the ski resorts of Podbanske, Tatranska Lomnica, Smokovec, Strbske Pleso, Jasna, Ruzomberok and Donovaly. If you are interested not only in skiing, but also in snowboarding, you can go to Otupne, where there is a real snow park with tracks for both amateurs and professionals. Also equipped for snowboarders is the Mlynicka Valley complex, where there are all conditions for freeriding. There are also snowboard trails in the Tatranska Lomnica ski resort.

Extremists will find activities to their liking in Slovakia. Many mountain rivers allow you to go rafting. The most turbulent and difficult river for rafting is Bela, and beginners are advised to first overcome the easy descent along the Orava. You can also go rafting when visiting the Pieniny National Park.

Current time in Bratislava:
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An equally extreme activity for tourists is descending into caves, of which there are about 4000 in Slovakia. Only 12 of them are open to the public, and the most popular are Dobsinska, Okhtinskaya, Jasovskaya, Gombasecka and Domica - some of them are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. There is no sea in Slovakia, but there are excellent conditions for diving: on the lakes Gulaska, Golden Sands, Strkovetskoe and Seneckie.

How to get there

By plane

Russians and citizens of the CIS countries need registration of a Schengen visa to visit Slovakia... You can fly directly from Moscow to the capital of Slovakia several times a week (arrival point - Miroslav Stefanik Airport) or get through Prague and Vienna.

By train

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Weather in Slovakia

The climate of Slovakia is continental, which means that winters are quite cold and snowy here, and summers are warm and humid. The average temperature in January is -1 ° C in the capital of Slovakia, and + 21 ° C in July. At any time of the year, tourists will feel comfortable here - both in winter at ski resorts and in summer, exploring the many attractions of this country. Although 80% of Slovakia is located at an altitude of 750 meters above sea level, fertile valleys and the Middle Danube lowland stretch south of the Carpathians, along which numerous rivers flow into the Danube - this is the main granary of Slovakia. And in the mountains there are zones of alpine meadows.

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Cities and regions

Regions of Slovakia

Slovakia consists of 8 regions, which are named according to the names of their administrative centers (in brackets - the number on the map on the right): Bratislava (1), Presov (7), Kosicki (8), Trencinski (3), Banskobystritskiy (6), Trnavskiy (2), Nitransky (4) and Zhilinsky (5).

The Banska Bystrica region borders Hungary. These territories have both mountains (Tatras) and a plain (southern part). Banska Bystrica is famous for its picturesque landscapes, because it is here that there are 3 national parks and many nature reserves.

The Bratislava region is the smallest in area compared to the rest and, at the same time, the most densely populated. The region includes the Danube and Zakhor lowlands, which are divided by the Small Carpathians. The region borders on 3 states at once: Czech Republic, Austria and Hungary.

The Kosice region has a border with Hungary and Ukraine. There are many fertile lands, therefore viticulture is developed and excellent wine is produced. Also in Koszczyca industrial production, transport infrastructure is developed and has its own airport.

The Nitra region borders Hungary and is characterized by a flat landscape. It is also a region favorable for viticulture and agriculture. There is a small airport here and a shipyard in Komarno.

The border with Ukraine and Poland runs through the Presov region. It is a mountainous region, in the west of which there is the High Tatras National Park. Poprad has an international airport, and 40 km from Presov there is Kosice airport, so it is very convenient for tourists to get to this region.

Having visited Slovakia, it is worth not only strolling along the streets of the Old Town of Bratislava, but also seeing the Gothic cathedrals of Kosice, the ancient city of Trencin and the town of Banska Bystrica. You can also go to neighboring Vienna or mystical Prague. An interesting tourist route is the mining town of Banska Stiavnica, the picturesque rural settlement of Vlkolinec with folk architecture, the Gothic town of Bardejov with a preserved fortress system and, of course, numerous ancient castles.

Orava Castle rises picturesquely on a rock and consists of several buildings "attached" to it. Local legends tell that ghosts live in the castle in Bojnice. Of the fortresses, one of the largest in Europe - Spissky Castle, which is under the protection of UNESCO, can be noted. Trencian fortress includes the Barbora Palace and the Cannon Tower, this area hosts exhibitions of cold steel and firearms, which were produced from the 13th century to the present day. In addition, the ruins of the ancient Slovak fortresses Chahtice, Empty and the fortress in Zagoria are interesting.

Wooden churches and churches in Slovakia

Many wooden churches have survived in Slovakia, the history of which goes back several centuries. These are unique buildings erected by the hands of folk craftsmen. The oldest are Gothic Catholic churches made of wood in the settlements of Gervaty and Tvrdosin. Also in Slovakia, there are evangelical (articular) churches, which can be seen in the settlements of Svyaty Kriz, Kezmarok, Leshtiny and Gronsek. These churches were built during the reign of Emperor Leopold of the 1st century. XVII century. The third type of Slovak churches is Orthodox, which were built in the 18th century. They are located in the settlements of Ladomirova and Bodruzhali. The iconostases in these temples are decorated in the Rococo and Baroque styles; here you can also see unique Carpathian icons. Wooden churches of the Carpathian arc in 2008 became part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which speaks of their uniqueness and significance in the religious history of Slovakia.

Sights of Slovakia outside Bratislava

Churches of Slovakia

Castles of Slovakia

Where to go in Slovakia

sights

Museums and galleries

Entertainment

Parks and recreation areas

Leisure

Transport

Private guides in Slovakia

Russian private guides will help you to get acquainted with Slovakia in more detail.
The project Experts.Tourister.Ru is registered.

Traveling around the country

The most popular ways for tourists to travel around Slovakia are by car, bus or train. In addition, the country has both domestic and international flights. In the suburbs of Bratislava, the airport is located. Stefanik. There are also airports in the cities of Poprad, Kosice and Sliach. And transportation on domestic routes is provided by small airports in Piestany and Prievidze. For example, flights Bratislava-Kosice are operated 3 times a day, and their cost starts from 50 euros. For businessmen and busy people, this is the best way to travel around the country.

Railway transport

Since Slovakia is a rather "compact" country, most locals and tourists prefer to travel by rail - since it has an extensive network throughout the country. In addition, the local railway offers passengers a high quality of service and a decent speed of transportation at quite affordable prices. The slowest trains are called Osobni and stop at every available stop. Fast trains in Slovakia are called Rychlik and Express, and the fastest trains are called InterCity. Express trains from the Slovak capital go to Trencin (distance 123 km and less than 2 hours on the way), to Zilina (distance 203 km and 3 hours on the way), to Poprad (the train covers 334 km in 5 hours), to Spisska Nova -Weight (distance 370 km and 5.5 hours on the way), to Kosice (distance 445 km and 5.5 hours on the way). If a train ride around the country costs an average of 3-15 euros, then for a train trip over shorter distances, you will have to pay only 0.5-1 euros. If you want to ride the train at night and take a reclining seat, you will have to pay extra for this pleasure. On weekends, as a rule, there are discounts on tickets, and in addition, students and young people can use them on any day. It is especially convenient for tourists that railway stations in large cities are equipped with scoreboards in Slovak and English. The site where you can find out the train schedule and book a ticket:.

Bus

The bus service is no less well developed than the railway one. The only disadvantage of bus travel is that it is more expensive than travel by train. But you can always save money if you travel on weekends when there is a discount for all types of transport in Slovakia. There are several types of buses in this country: express (goes long distances abroad), local bus in Slovakia and urban transport. On international routes, you can get to Prague, Vienna, Munich, Berlin, Cologne, Paris, but a prerequisite for such a trip is the presence of a Schengen visa in your passport. If you are traveling around the country, keep in mind that local routes (especially on weekends and holidays) are often congested, so it is better to take a seat in advance so that you do not have to stand all the way later.

Water communication

In Slovakia, water transport is also represented, since the main waterway runs through the whole country - the Danube River, which connects Bratislava not only with many cities of the country, but also with Vienna and Budapest. And the Danube-Rhine-Main canal connects the Black and North Seas. You can order tickets for motor ships and ferries in Slovakia online on the website.

Urban transport

The cities have developed public transport: buses, trolleybuses and trams. To pay for travel, you need to purchase special coupons from vending machines (they are usually orange and located at bus stops). As in the old Soviet times, these coupons are composted in the passenger compartment. Since tickets are valid on the day of purchase, they must be purchased immediately before traveling by public transport. A single ticket will cost you about 15 euro cents, a travel pass for a day - about 1 euro, and for a week - from 3 to 5 euros. These passes can be purchased at underground passages, DPHMB offices and ticket offices at train stations. If you are going to visit the capital of the country, then you can read more about the transport of Bratislava.

Automobile

To rent a car in this country, a foreigner must have an international driver's license and a passport. And in the form of collateral, you may be required to have a credit card. The amount of car rent on weekends and holidays is usually more expensive. Also, you will have to pay a certain amount for car insurance against theft or accidents. Please note that in built-up areas the speed limit is 60 km / h, outside of them - 90 km / h, and on some highways - up to 130 km / h. Be sure to wear your seat belt and do not drink alcohol, because even a sip of beer can be a reason for local services to fine you. Parking in cities is allowed in parking lots, and you need to buy a parking ticket in advance by attaching it to the car window. Coupons are sold in special machines, newsagents or from a parking attendant.

Slovakian cuisine

The national cuisine of Slovakia is very diverse and includes many dishes that are prepared exclusively in this country. If you look into national restaurants with an authentic atmosphere and folk music, you will definitely be offered to try sauerkraut soup and Segedin goulash. No less tasty dishes are dumplings with feta cheese, potato dumplings and village sheep's cheese. Local wines are no worse than famous French or Spanish wines, their quality is high, while the price is quite low, so you can stock up on the best sorts of Slovak wines as gifts to family and friends.

Purchases

Shops in Slovakia are usually open from 9 am to 6 pm, Sunday is a day off. As souvenirs from Slovakia, you can bring: Easter eggs, ceramics, national handmade dolls, figures from grains, the national wind instrument "fujara" and wooden jugs. If you are interested in folk crafts as souvenirs, buy them in a single ULUV network, whose shops are in every city. You can read separately about shopping in Bratislava.

Slovakia is a long and narrow strip stretching from the fertile plains of the Danube basin to the mountain peaks of the High Tatras - an amazingly beautiful mountain range. These mountain ranges have long impeded the processes of industrialization and modernization, and therefore Slovakia is more like a rural area and has retained its pristine freshness (sometimes to the point of indecency).

Until 1918, present-day Slovakia was called Upper Hungary and for almost a millennium was under the rule of the Magyars, and Bratislava was even the Hungarian capital when it captured the rest of the country. But in 1918, the Slovaks, together with their Slavic neighbors, the Czechs, formed a single state - Czechoslovakia, which lasted for 75 years until the 1993 "Velvet Revolution". In 2004 Slovakia joined the EU. The republic has a very heterogeneous population: over half a million ethnic Hungarians live in the south of the country, along with thousands of Roma, leading a rather miserable existence, and several thousand Rusyns in the east.

The capital of the country, Bratislava, has been very unflattering in the past, but this small ancient city has been well restored over the past decade and now looks very attractive. Poprad is the location of the transport hub of the High Tatras, the most spectacular mountain range in Slovakia, where tourist routes begin in the interesting medieval towns of the Spiš region in the eastern part of the country. Further to the east is the cultural center of the Rusyns, and the second largest Slovak city boasts a beautiful Gothic cathedral, a multi-ethnic population and is strikingly different from many other places in the country.

Transport and accommodation in Slovakia

Two-thirds of the country's railways are single-track, so traffic is slow, but some trips are worth taking to admire the local scenery. Slovak railways (Zeleznice Slovenskej republiky) run fast trains (rychlik) with stops in major towns, while local trains (osobny vlak) stop everywhere. For domestic travel, tickets (listok) can be bought at the station (stanica) the day before or on the day of departure. Euro City trains, sometimes Intercity and Expres trains have to pay extra.

ZSR trains have sleeper cars (luzkovy vozen) and berths (lezadlovy vozen) at reasonable prices, which must be booked no later than six hours before departure. Inter Rail cards are valid in the country, additional charges are required for Eurail cards. The bus (autobus) service is faster and covers a larger area. In most cities, train stations and bus stations are located nearby. The state bus company is Slovenska automobilova doprava, or SAD. Usually the ticket is bought from the driver, since the ticket offices are often closed. For weekends and early flights, tickets must be booked in advance.

• Accommodation in Slovakia

In all cases, it is a good idea to book your accommodation as early as possible. Some hotels double their rates for foreigners, but for the most part a simple room for 10 euros is not difficult to find everywhere except Bratislava. Old state hotels and resort complexes on the springs are slowly being restored (rooms there are usually small and expensive). At the same time, new hotels and guesthouses are opening - especially in famous tourist areas - and often very good ones. A good option is private housing in many places, for this you need to look for the Zimmer frei sign. Prices here start at 8 euros per day.

There are no real chain hostels here, although some belong to the HI system or work as part of the SCM student travel agency. There are several private hostels in Bratislava with different levels of comfort. Everywhere, local travel agencies or SCM chapters provide information on low-cost student residences in university cities in July and August. In the High Tatras, in addition to housing in panel houses on the waters, you can find several houses (chalets or chata) scattered along the slopes of the mountains. Some of them are hotels with a bed price of about 15 euros, and much less in simpler establishments and in more secluded places. There are many campsites with simple bungalows, where prices start at 8 euros per bed.

Food and drink in Slovakia

Slovak cuisine is quite hearty, and Hungarian, Polish and Ukrainian influences can be traced in different regions of the country. In the mornings, bufets usually eat parek - a hot cutlet with mustard and horseradish in a white bun. The national dish is bryndzove halusky, or dumplings with sheep's cheese and bacon, fried in breadcrumbs, which also has a Hungarian trace. Goulash is very popular (albeit in a softer and not as thick and spicy form as in) and langose ​​- fried dumplings with different fillings. The menu for the most part starts with a soup (polievka), which is eaten both during the day and in the evening. The main dishes are based on pork or beef, usually trout and carp, you can try carp or catfish, and if you're lucky, enjoy lamb.

Most of the main courses are served with potatoes (zemiaky), but fresh salads and vegetables are still rare in local restaurants. In addition to cakes (palacinky) with chocolate, fruit and cream, Slovak desserts invariably include apple strudel, homemade cheese pie and ice cream. More and more restaurants are offering international cuisine from fast food outlets and pizzerias. Their opening hours are also extended, in remote regions these points are closed at 21.00 or 22.00, in larger settlements restaurants are open until 23.00 and later. Coffee (kava) is drunk here, black, and in big cities - espresso, although sometimes in towns and villages ground coffee is simply diluted with boiling water (although it is called "Turkish", turecka).

Patisseries (cukraren) play an important role in social life, especially on Sunday afternoon, when they are only open. Regardless of the season, Slovaks eat a daily portion of ice cream (zmrzlina). In the vineyards of the southern part of Slovakia, good white wines are produced, which are not inferior to the Hungarian and Austrian ones. The most popular local drink is plum brandy, or plum vodka, which is widespread everywhere. Having lived for almost seventy years side by side with Czechs, Slovaks are accustomed to draft beer, but still there are fewer pubs (pivnica) here than in. Slovaks are more likely to visit restaurants or wine bars (vinaren), often open late as nightclubs.

Iconic landmarks of Slovakia

1). - Small Slovak capital - a beautiful, well-restored old town full of baroque palaces, shady squares and lively street cafes;

2). - These peaks - the most beautiful mountains in Slovakia - rise above the Poprad plain;

3). - An attractive medieval walled town originally inhabited by the Saxons;

4). Spissky Grad- The large medieval castle in the east of the country impresses with its ruins on the top of the mountain.

In contact with

Slovakia is a small and very comfortable country located in Central Europe. It is quite difficult to find it on the map. In terms of population and area, Slovakia does not even fall into the first hundred countries in the world. It is a member of the European Union. Slovakia is landlocked. This is a very young state, which appeared on the political map of Europe only in 1993.

The territory of Slovakia is just over 49 thousand km², and the population is over 5.4 million people. In the north, Slovakia borders with Poland, in the east - with Ukraine, in the west - with the Czech Republic and Austria, in the south - with Hungary. The capital of Slovakia is Bratislava.

History

Slovaks have never had their own state, their history can be conditionally divided into four periods:

• Before the conquest by the Hungarians in the 10th century (Samo state, Nitran principality, Great Moravia).
• A long period of Hungarian rule, it ended only in 1918.
• Czechoslovak period, which ended in 1993.
• The period after independence.

Until the 10th century, the territory of present-day Slovakia was part of the state in which the Czechs and Slovaks lived. The distant ancestors of the Slovaks adopted Christianity from Saints Cyril and Methodius. However, in the 10th century, the Hungarian invasion began on these lands, which destroyed this state.
After that, a very long, centuries-old period of Hungarian domination began. In the 13th century, the Tatars came to the Slovak lands, bringing war and ruin. After the formation of the Kingdom of Hungary, Slovakia became part of it and played an important role in this formation. For several centuries Bratislava was the capital of the Habsburg state, and later the Slovak lands became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

In the middle of the 18th century, a national liberation movement began in the Habsburg empire. The Czechs first declared their rights to self-determination, and a little later the Slovaks also did so. After the revolution in 1848, the Hungarians began to oppress the Slovak language and national culture. Slovak patriots began to look for allies in the struggle for their rights; they found understanding and support among the Czechs, who were in about the same position. During the First World War, the ideas of the formation of a unified Czechoslovak state began to appear, which were vigorously promoted by representatives of the Slovak diaspora in the Entente countries.
At the end of 1918, the creation of Czechoslovakia was announced. Disputes and disagreements arose from time to time between Czechs and Slovaks. In 1938, the country was divided and occupied. Part of its territory went to Poland, and part was annexed to Germany. The rest was occupied by German troops.
During the German occupation, part of the Slovaks collaborated with the Nazis, the other part led an underground and partisan struggle against them. The Slovak communists had support from Moscow. After liberation from the Nazi invaders, the communists seized power in the country. Slovakia was granted broad autonomy, the rights of which were then seriously curtailed.

After the introduction of the troops of the Soviet Union, which took place in 1968, the country's constitution was changed, and it turned into a federation, a bicameral parliament was elected, and local administrations received broad rights. In 1989, the communist system changed, the creation of a new federal republic was announced, Slovaks and Czechs entered it on equal terms. However, it was not possible to completely resolve all issues related to the management of the federal state, with the distribution of finances and powers. In 1992, representatives of the Czech and Slovak communities of the country agreed to partition Czechoslovakia. This is how Slovakia appeared on the political map of Europe.
In 2004, Slovakia becomes a member of NATO and the European Union, three years later it enters the Schengen zone, and in 2009 switches to the euro.

general information

The Carpathian Mountains are located in the north of the country. To the south, there are hills, between which there are numerous valleys. A large number of rivers that originate in the Carpathians and carry their waters to the Danube. Near the capital is the Middle Danube lowland - the main agricultural region of the country.

Climate

The climate of Slovakia is continental with cold and snowy winters and very hot summers. Average annual precipitation is less than 1000 mm.

Slovak Paradise - a nature reserve in the Spiš region of Slovakia

Forests cover 40% of the country's territory. Deciduous and mixed forests prevail in the foothills of the Carpathians, and conifers in the north of Slovakia. The animal world is very rich. There are a large number of national parks and protected areas.

Population

More than 85% of the country's population are Slovaks, 11% consider themselves Hungarians, 2% are Roma. The official language is Slovak. The overwhelming majority of the population is Christians, of which 60% are Catholics. There are many Orthodox and Protestants, there are representatives of other Christian denominations. The Slovak literary language began its development in the middle of the 19th century.

Form of government

According to the form of government, Slovakia is a parliamentary republic. Political regime - democratic

Slovakia is a parliamentary republic. The head of state is formally the president, he is elected by popular vote, but the prime minister has more powers, he is elected by the parliament. 150 deputies are elected to the unicameral parliament for four years.

Economy

Agriculture is well developed in Slovakia. Actively using the latest technologies, Slovaks have made great strides in recent years. Much has been done in the development of industrial production. After joining the euro zone, large investments came to Slovakia, especially from neighboring Germany. Many minerals are mined in the country: coal, oil, gas, gold and rare metals. There is relatively little oil and gas in the country. The country's main problem is unemployment. In recent decades, the tourism industry has played an increasingly important role in the state economy. The government is doing everything to stimulate the development of tourism.

Tourism and attractions

Slovakia has a very serious tourism potential and the country's leadership is making every effort to develop this area. It is a very comfortable country with a well-developed infrastructure, beautiful nature, rich history and hospitable people. Most of all tourists are attracted by the capital of the country Bratislava, ski resorts and historical sights of the country.
The bulk of tourists come from European countries located nearby (Poland, Czech Republic and Germany). In 2006, 1.6 million tourists visited the country.

The tourist infrastructure is well developed here, you can easily find accommodation for any income and taste. The country has built hotels of the famous brands Sheraton, Hilton and Holiday Inn. You can also rent a room in one of the hostels converted into hotels. In this case, you will receive a minimum of amenities and pay the minimum price.
In mountain resorts, you can stay in a small hotel, they offer a high level of service for a reasonable price.
In summer, numerous campgrounds open here, where you can also rent affordable housing. A small house can be rented in the countryside.
Tourists very often visit Bratislava, the most beautiful ancient city, built by the Romans, which stretches on both banks of the Danube. The capital of Slovakia on the map is located on the very border with Hungary and Austria.

The city has a very large number of attractions and historical monuments. All of them are in excellent condition and are of great interest among tourists. We recommend you to visit the Old Town Hall, built in the XIII century, the Primates Palace (XVIII century), St. Martin's Cathedral (XIV century). You can just walk along the old streets of Bratislava, which have seen a lot in their history. Devin Castle is located not far from Bratislava. The city has a large number of interesting museums; many buildings are included in the list of world heritage. Kezmarok is very interesting - a castle built in the Gothic style in the 15th century. This list is far from complete.

Sights are located not only in the capital of the country, a large number of them are scattered across the territory of Slovakia. You will definitely be interested in the ancient mining town of Banska Stiavnica or the village of Vlkolinec with elements of ancient architecture. Tourists often visit the Spiš Fortress, which is considered one of the largest in Europe.

In Bojnice, you can visit a haunted castle - one of the oldest and most beautiful castles in Europe.
In Slovakia, you can not only see interesting ancient monuments, but also improve your health. This country is famous for its healing springs. They are in no way inferior to the famous Swiss resorts, but the prices are much lower here. There are more than two dozen health resorts and 1200 springs in Slovakia.
The country is famous for its ski resorts. The main ones are in the High Tatras (Tatranska Lomnica, Strbske Pleso) and in the Low Tatras (Donovaly, Jasna, Ruzomberok). The tracks here are not very difficult and are perfect for beginners. But there are excellent conditions for recreation.

Many of the ski resorts are located in national parks. There are several routes for water sports enthusiasts in Slovakia. Numerous rivers that descend from the Carpathian Mountains are perfect for kayak and canoe lovers.
The country has a huge number of caves, some of them are open to the public.
Slovakia is very suitable for Russian citizens. This is a Slavic country, with a culture and language very close and understandable to us. There is practically no feeling of a language barrier; Slovaks are very hospitable and welcoming.

Slovakia is the youngest country in Europe. The state received full independence only in the early 90s of the XX century. For a long time, being in the shadow of other powers (Austria-Hungary, Czechoslovakia, etc.), Slovakia does not seem to want to play an important role in the economy or politics of the continent. Remaining a “thing in itself”, the country has retained all the tourist infrastructure that it has cherished for over a century.

They come here for the delightful nature, miraculous mineral springs, clean mountain air, the cheerful disposition of Slovaks and excellent cuisine, which has absorbed the best traditions of several peoples at once, while maintaining its originality. Despite the fact that it is difficult to find masterpieces of architecture or painting that would be known to the whole world in Slovakia, every city, every village here is filled with a cozy and warm atmosphere, a unique European charm.

The undoubted advantages of traveling to one of the most invisible countries in Europe include very modest prices with a high level of service. Domestic travel companies most often sell winter, ski tours to Slovakia. And the country offers tourists the brightest and most memorable beauty all year round.

Budapest

The bus to get to it takes 3 hours, the ticket costs 9 euros. Sightseeing bus - 16 euros. Not everywhere there is an audio guide in Russian. Better to stock up on a printed guide - 9 euros.

Krakow

If you do not care about long bus transfers, then from Bratislava you can easily get to Krakow. The trip costs from 34 euros one way, on the way, taking into account all stops in Brno, Olomouc, Ostrava and Katowice, at least 9 hours. Better to take a night bus and start exploring the ancient capital early in the morning.

Overnight in an inexpensive hotel in Krakow - from 17 euros. Sightseeing bus with audio guide - 14 euros.

A visit to Slovakia is not only about impressing a new country, natural beauty, castles, museums and ski slopes. The location of the country guarantees you an experience of other European cities that you may not have been going to. An inconspicuous and "modest" country is fraught with vast opportunities for those who have not yet "discovered" the Old World for themselves. Forward!

Slovakia has exactly two "chips" - but what kind! Healing thermal springs with a full periodic table and a crazy number of medieval castles (of course, with ghosts). Cozy Bratislava, treatment in Smrdaki and Dudince - everything about Slovakia: tours, rest, prices and photos.

• Tours for May around the world
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According to some, not too experienced tourists, Slovakia serves as a kind of "addition" to the Czech Republic on the market. Let's face it: such an opinion is not only offensive, but also fundamentally wrong. This country with its beautiful nature, spectacular mountain peaks, numerous castles and fortresses (every first with its own ghost and every second with its own dramatic history) may well compete with the "veterans" of excursion tourism.

Time difference to Moscow

- 2 hours in summer -1 hour

• with Kaliningrad

• with Samara

• with Yekaterinburg

• with Omsk

• with Krasnoyarsk

• with Irkutsk

• with Yakutsk

• with Vladivostok

• with Severo-Kurilsk

• with Kamchatka

Climate

Moderate continental, with pronounced high-altitude zoning. Average temperatures in July are +19 ... + 21 ° C in the plains and +8 ... + 12 ° C in the mountains, in January +1 ... + 4 ° C in the plains and up to -10 ° C in the mountainous regions. The coldest month is January, the warmest are in July and August. It often rains in autumn, and it is often windy in the mountains in winter. The ski season lasts from November to March. The most comfortable time to visit the country for the purpose of treatment and broadening one's horizons is from May to September. It can be chilly in the evenings at the thermal spas, so it is advisable to bring a sweater with you.

Import and export of currency is not limited. When entering from the territory of non-EU countries, amounts over 10,000 EUR are subject to mandatory declaration. Permitted duty-free import of 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos or 50 regular cigars, or 250 grams of smoking tobacco; 1 liter of alcoholic beverages with a strength over 22 °, 2 liters of wine; 50 ml of perfume, 250 ml of eau de toilette, as well as personal items for an amount not exceeding 430 EUR. Prices on the page are for October 2018.

Medicines and medical supplies can be imported duty-free in the amount necessary to meet the minimum personal needs. Tobacco products can only be imported by persons over 16 years old, alcoholic products - over 18 years old.

The import and export of weapons, explosives, pornographic products, narcotic substances, as well as cultural and historical values ​​that do not have documentary evidence of the legality of their acquisition are prohibited.

It is forbidden to import products containing meat or milk into the territory of the EU countries, including sausage, canned food, bacon and even chocolates. If found, they will be confiscated, and the passenger will be fined. The ban does not apply to baby food and special preparations needed for people with certain diseases (in this case, the products must be carefully packed, and their weight should not exceed 2 kg).

• How to get a visa to Slovakia for traveling by car

Tax Free

In Slovakia, there is a Tax free system: having forked out from EUR 175.01 in one check, you can return up to 20% VAT. First you need to take a special form at the checkout with a list of purchased goods and enter your passport data there. At the airport, the completed form (along with a regular cashier's receipt, passport and freshly purchased items in undamaged packages) must be presented to the customs officer to obtain a stamp, and then exchanged for cash at the Global Blue pick-up point. If time is running out, you can send a stamped Tax free check to the Bratislava office (but no later than 3 weeks from the date of registration) and wait for a refund to your bank card.

How to get to Slovakia

The second largest Slovak airport is located in Kosice. From Moscow, LOT is delivered here (157 EUR one way, from 4 hours with a transfer in Warsaw), Czech Airlines (165 EUR, from 10 hours through Prague) and other carriers. Connecting flights from St. Petersburg are organized by Czech Airlines (223 EUR one way, 23 hours via Prague), Austrian Airlines (260 EUR, 21 hours 40 minutes via Vienna) and Turkish Airlines (399 EUR, 29 hours 20 minutes via Istanbul).

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Transport

The size of the country is small, most of the traffic is carried out by trains and buses. The main railway line Kosice - Bratislava runs through Spisska Nova Ves, Poprad, Zilina and Trencin. Tickets are sold at the office. the carrier's website (in English), from the capital to Trencin can be reached for 6-8 EUR, in Ruzomberok - for 11-23 EUR, in Kosice - for 13-40 EUR (morning flights are cheaper). The Slovak Expres system (official website in English) operates on popular routes: round-trip tickets for night trains cost 18-27 EUR.

There is also water transport in the country: the Danube connects Bratislava with neighboring cities and abroad (Vienna and Budapest). The cost of a sightseeing cruise in the capital's waters is 7 EUR for adults, 4.50 EUR for children (for the schedule, see the carrier's website in English).

In Slovakia, there is a system of youth and student discounts; on weekends and holidays, travel on intercity buses becomes cheaper.

Public transport within cities

Trams, buses and trolleybuses act as urban transport. Travel is paid with coupons, which are sold in orange vending machines at bus stops - they must be composted in the salon. Tickets are valid for a limited period (15, 30 or 60 minutes), so you should buy them strictly before the trip. Single tickets cost 0.7-3.1 EUR, travel passes for 3 days - 8 EUR. They can be bought at DPHMB offices, underground passages, kiosks and railway station ticket offices.

Taxis in Slovakia are inexpensive, equipped with meters and, due to the small size of cities, are not very popular. Ordering them by phone is more profitable than catching them on the street. The standard fare is EUR 1-2 for the boarding plus EUR 0.50-1 for each km.

Rent a Car

By renting a car in compact Slovakia, you can see its main attractions in a few days: medieval cities, castles, national parks. The roads are good (though some of them are paid), there are few traffic jams, the drivers are polite and tidy. There may be problems with parking: the old streets are not adapted to the abundance of modern vehicles. Most of the parking lots are paid: special coupons and cards are sold in tobacco and newsstands, an hour in a covered parking lot will cost 1-3 EUR per hour (depending on the location, it is the most expensive in the center).

Compact car rental - from EUR 30, standard model - from EUR 52, station wagon - from EUR 56 per day. The cost of gasoline is 1.44 EUR per 1 liter.

Car rental is possible with a driver's license (both international and Russian), passport and credit card. Cash is often accepted for payment, but a credit card in the form of a collateral is required. The amount of rent depends on the car and the rental period, as well as on the day of the week - on weekends (from 15:00 Friday to 9:00 Monday) and holidays, it is slightly higher (excluding distance). The driver's age must be at least 21 years old, and the driving experience must be from one year. The cost of renting Czech car brands is significantly lower than all others.

The maximum permitted speed within settlements is 50 km / h, outside them - 90 km / h, on highways - up to 130 km / h. The dipped beam must always be on, the use of seat belts is mandatory. Drinking any alcohol (even beer) and talking on a mobile while driving are prohibited. Antiradars in Slovakia are illegal. For exceeding the speed limit by 20 km / h, the driver will have to pay a fine of 100 EUR, for 70 km / h - already 650 EUR. Driving while intoxicated can cost up to 2,500 EUR.

It is worth additionally taking out accident insurance (in the region of 10 EUR per day) and against theft (for the same money). The insurance will cover any damage caused to the car only if the driver is sober.

Connectivity and Wi-Fi

There are several mobile operators in Slovakia: Orange, O2, Telekom and Swan. Orange is the leader in terms of the number of subscribers and the quality of communication. SIM cards worth 3-15 EUR are sold in company offices and supermarkets (you need a passport for registration), the balance is replenished via the Internet or using scratch cards. Orange calls to Russia cost EUR 0.47 per minute, Telekom - EUR 0.30.

There are payphones on Slovak streets that accept telephone cards with a nominal value of 5-10 EUR. You can buy them from post offices and newsagents and call both local numbers and overseas. Communication with the homeland from a public telephone booth will cost 10-15%, and from a hotel - 30% more expensive than from a payphone.

Free Wi-Fi is available in hotels, catering establishments (you will have to order something to get access) and on the central streets of Bratislava. In large cities, Internet cafes are common, offering connection for 2-4 EUR per hour. In some places, there are free internet kiosks that allow you to check email, send a message or surf the web (only the connection speed is annoyingly slow).

Slovakia Accommodation

There are few 5 * hotels in the country, most of them are located in Bratislava. The basis of the number of rooms in Slovakia are "treshki" and "four". The price / quality distribution is as follows: 5 * mainly refer to the world hotel "chains", the level is appropriate, 4 * - very expensive and very good, 3 * - from expensive and good to inexpensive and simple. Most of the leisure activities are in the hotel and not in the resort. In 90% of hotels, check-in at 14:00, check-out at 10:00.

In addition, the country has a wide selection of private apartments, campgrounds and sanatoriums, many of which, built under socialism, are now being modernized with might and main. The hostels are mostly clean, tidy, with possible drawbacks - old furniture, poor soundproofing, cramped rooms and problems with Wi-Fi.

Mains voltage - 220 V, 50 Hz, two-pin sockets with a safety plug.

Police: 158, emergency and roadside assistance: 154, ambulance: 155, fire brigade: 150, emergency services: 112.

City codes: Bratislava - 2, High Tatras resorts - 52, Low Tatras resorts (Jasna) - 44.

Stunning views of Slovakia

Diving

Near Bratislava, there are good conditions for diving - on the Senecke Lakes and Lake Gulashka, and with good visibility (in early spring and late autumn) - also on the Golden Sands and Strkovetskoe Lakes. You can also dive on the Danube Island, in the vicinity of the towns of Banska Stiavnica (lakes Rikhniavskoe, Vindshakhtskoe) and Kraliovani (Shutovo), at the Liptovska Mara reservoir, at the Dedinka and Ruzhin dams.

The best time to dive is late spring and early autumn. The water in the Slovak lakes is surprisingly clear, but almost always cool, so you have to tune in for the thrill in advance. The bottom is predominantly rocky, overgrown with all kinds of greenery; at the depths there are carps, eels, pikes and small fish. Diving equipment can be rented in schools and clubs open in Bratislava and some other cities. The average cost of a two-hour rental is 10-15 EUR, diving with an instructor will cost 55-70 EUR, two-week diving courses with theory and practice - from 350 EUR.

Skiing

Rafting

There are 63 watercourses in Slovakia suitable for boating. The local rivers are used by boats, kayaks, kayaks and canoes. In Eastern Slovakia, the most popular rivers are Poprad, Hornad, Torisa, Toplja, Ondava and Laborec, in Central - Hron, Orava and Slana, in Western - Vag, Nitra, Small Danube and Danube.

A two-hour rafting on Bela or Vagu will cost 23-30 EUR, including equipment and an instructor's accompaniment.

The most turbulent river in Slovakia is the Bela, which descend from April 15 to September 30. Rafting down the Vag river in the area from Cerveny Klastor or along the bend of this river through the Bolshaya Fatra under the ruins of Strechna castle is less difficult. Beginners and even families with children have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature during an easy descent along the Orava River (from Parnitsa in Zhashkov Brod to Kraliovan). Descent along the Dunajec in the Pieniny National Park and the mountainous sections of the Hron River, which is characterized by the alternation of calm and turbulent currents, promise vivid sensations.

Rafting in Slovakia

Treatment in Slovakia

Tourists often come to Slovakia to improve their health: there are more than 1200 thermal and mineral springs here. Most of the resorts are located in the mountains: enjoying clean air, idyllic landscapes, tranquility and silence in itself provides a healing effect. Doctors are also not far behind, creating effective health programs based on local ingredients for patients with any diagnoses and offering a European-style high level of service.

Slovakia nature

Slovakian cuisine and restaurants

Slovakian cuisine combines features of European schools and strong national ingredients. Especially popular are local sheep cheeses, "oshtepki" and "parenitsy", and vegetable soups, broths and various complex soups from meat and vegetables, dumplings with feta cheese, potato dumplings, bryndza dumplings, as well as poultry dishes are considered the hallmark of the local cuisine. ... You should definitely try the national cabbage soup (made from sauerkraut) and Segedin goulash.

In Slovakia, excellent local wines are produced, which occupy a worthy place among the best European varieties, and at the same time are very inexpensive. The most popular spirits are plum brandy (plum vodka) and borovichka (juniper vodka), as well as a variety of herbal liqueurs. The best desserts are walnut roll "walnut", steamed buns with plum jam, poppy seed cake "makovnik", strudels and "trdelniki" (spiral tubes made from yeast dough).

Most resorts have traditional salash and koliba restaurants where you can taste national dishes accompanied by authentic Slovak music.

Pivnitsa pubs also offer a rich selection of local treats: by the way, prices there are often lower than in other eateries. In large cities, establishments with French, Italian, Chinese and Indian menus are open. Confectioneries, pubs, "wineries", coffee shops - there is where to satisfy both hunger and thirst. Lunch in an inexpensive cafe will cost 10-15 EUR per person (the further from the center, the cheaper), a snack in a fast food - 5-8 EUR, dinner in a restaurant - from 35-40 EUR for two, excluding alcohol.

Guides in Slovakia

Entertainment and attractions

An excursion to the sights of Slovakia is a fascinating journey through time: the elegant architecture of the past ages is adjacent to the monuments of our time. A striking example of this is Bratislava: the eclectic Old Town Hall, the elegant Capuchin Church, the Cathedral of St. Martin crowned with a gilded crown, the solemn Presidential Palace - witnesses of a glorious past. And next to it is the imposing SNP bridge, the Slavin memorial complex in honor of the warriors of World War II, numerous museums and street sculptures - the heroes of today.

In Trencin there is not only a stately castle, churches and chapels, but also the Milos Bazovsky Gallery with an interesting collection of Czech and Slovak contemporary art.

The pride of Kosice is the magnificent St. Elizabeth Cathedral, built in the 14th century in the best Gothic traditions. The ceiling of the neo-Baroque opera house is decorated with frescoes based on the themes of Shakespeare's plays, and the streams of the singing fountain, illuminated by hundreds of bulbs, soar to a height of 17 meters. In the town of Komarno, there are preserved works of Hungarian culture, and in the village of Vlkolinets, there are traditional Carpathian farmsteads.

Castles of Slovakia

Slovakia is a magnet for fans of scary ghost stories and sentimental love stories: countless local castles carefully guard their legends. For example, from one of the towers of the Devin castle - Maiden - an inconsolable young lady, separated from her lover, once threw herself off. But on the other hand, much later, one resourceful comrade flew on a hang-glider from socialist Czechoslovakia straight to undelivered Austria.

The Bojnice Castle annually hosts the International Festival of Spirits and Ghosts: over the past 10 centuries, a lot of them have probably accumulated here.

The powerful Bratislava Castle, towering over the Danube, stood in ruins for many years: they say it was burned down by drunk Austrian soldiers in the 19th century, and it did not come to reconstruction until the end of the next century. To build the Kezmarsky castle, a small church had to be destroyed: there were not enough materials, and earthly values ​​were more important to the owner than spiritual ones.

In the Orava Castle there is a bench, sitting on which you can get rid of infertility. And in the largest Slovak castle, Spišský Hrad, the ghost of Hedwiga's nanny still wanders, grieving for the stolen pupil.

National parks

The country has 16 protected natural areas and 9 national parks. The most picturesque is the Low Tatras with karst caves full of bizarre limestone cascades, stalactites and stalagmites. Most of the park is occupied by mountain ranges: low, but very impressive. Beech and coniferous forests, alternating with lawns and alpine fields, have hiking trails of various difficulty levels.

In the Low Tatras you can meet bears, wolves and lynxes: they keep a respectful distance from people and pose no danger.

The highest point of the country is located in the Tatra National Park - Mount Gerlachovsky Shtit. There are endemic animals (for example, the Tatra chamois), many birds, several species of reptiles and amphibians; both walking and cycling routes have been created for visitors. In "Bolshaya Fatra" there is the largest yew grove in Europe, in "Malaya" - Vratnaya Dolina, beloved by skiers, the ancient village of Stefanova and the ruins of several castles. The main treasure of the Poloniny park is the virgin Carpathian forests, the Pieniny is famous for the beauty of the Dunajec river gorge, and the Slovak Paradise - for its stormy waterfalls, the highest of which is the 70-meter high Zavojovi.

The best pictures of Slovakia Adrenaline rush, Slovakia

Speleology in Slovakia

There are about 4000 registered caves of all kinds in Slovakia: stone, ice and aragonite. 12 of them are open to visitors. Of particular interest are the Dobšinska Ice Cave, the Gombasecka and Jasovka Caves, the Domica Cave and the Okhtina Cave - all of which are included in the UNESCO List.

The Freedom Cave in the Demanovska Valley is popular for its multi-colored limestone formations: "mushrooms", "trees", pillars and icicles, painted in soft pink, terracotta and other shades. The Preposti Cave in Bojnice has been turned into a Museum of Ancient Man: the artifacts found here - tools, bones, ornaments - are more than 30 thousand years old. There are as many as 250 cave systems in the Muranska Platina National Park, but all of them are dangerous and therefore closed to tourists. But the "Slovak Karst" is a space for adventure seekers: endless labyrinths of grottoes, passages and faults keep many amazing secrets.

Fishing

In the rivers and lakes of Slovakia, fish of the carp and salmon family are caught, including trout and grayling. The most popular among fishermen are the rivers Danube, Vag, Hron, Turiec, Orava, Gornad, Ondava, Latoritsa, Laborets, Nitra, Ipel, Dunajec, Liptovska Mara, Zemplinska Shirava, Oravska Dam, Veельka Domasha, Slnava, Duhonka, Ruzhin, Teply Verkhly and Dedinki.

Holidays and events

January 1 in Slovakia is not only New Year, but also Republic Day, so the fun is in full swing. The main holiday of spring is Easter with solemn divine services, warm family dinners and ancient customs like water pouring. May 1 - Labor Day (greetings from the socialist past), 8 - Day of liberation from fascism. On July 5, they honor Cyril and Methodius, who once visited Moravia on a Christian mission. August 29 - Day of the National Uprising against the dictator Tiso, September 1 - Constitution Day. On November 1, deceased relatives are commemorated, and on November 17, students who participated in the 1989 demonstrations are celebrated.

December passes under the sign of Christmas: a special, fabulous atmosphere reigns in the well-dressed cities throughout the month.

Slovakia is fond of festivals: in the capital, Jazz Days are held in the fall, and in the summer - Coronation Day with colorful theatrical processions. The local analogue of Shrovetide is Fashank with songs, dances and street fairs; they lead round dances on Ivan Kupala (St. John) and guess at the betrothed. In October, the International Peace Marathon starts in Kosice, and in December the cities pass the baton of the Febiofest film festival to each other. In Trencianske Teplice, music shows are thundering all summer, in Kezmarok a large-scale craft fair is organized in July, and in Pezinka in September, Vinoborne is held - a wine festival with competitions for the title of the best Slovak alcohol.