The Top 10 Must-Do’s in Bratislava, Slovakia
#10 - Michael’s Gate
This gate dates back to the early 1400’s in Bratislava’s Old Town. During the medieval period, there were 4 gates enclosing this area of the city. During coronations, the newly crowned kings would travel throughout the city and make their stop here at Michael’s Gate, where the king would pledge his oath to the archbishop. Due to its age, it was reconstructed in the 1700’s, which is what you will see today.
Hours: 24
Average Cost: FREE
#9 - Cumil
One of the fun ways to see Bratislava is to look out for fun statues throughout the city. And one of the best-known statues is Cumil… just be sure to look down. This is an icon in the city, as tourists and locals alike line up to take a picture with the most famous sewer worker in Slovakia! Built in 1997, this statue is one of many you will see in Bratislava.
Hours: 24
Average Cost: FREE
#8 - St Martin’s Cathedral
This Gothic-style cathedral was completed in 1452. Although this was predominately a place of worship, it was also used as the primary location for coronations. In total, 11 kings and queens as well as 8 consorts were crowned here, with notable royals such as King Emperor Ferdinand I of Habsburg, Maximillian II, and Mary Theresa of Austria. You can take in the history, the architecture, or both as you visit this elaborate cathedral in a very Christian city.
Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Average Cost: FREE
#7 - The Blue Church
We have been fortunate to see a lot of very beautiful and unusual cathedrals in Europe, but this one takes the cake on most eclectic and interesting cathedrals/churches we’ve seen on our travels. I was being literal on taking the cake because we both said that this exterior reminds us of a cake! This was constructed in the early 1900’s by Hungarian architect Ödön Lechner, who wanted to create a church that was more art nouveau style. With its pastel blue and unique shape, you’ll probably want to spend hours wandering the interior and taking in the creativity of the fun church.
Hours: 7:00 - 7:30 a.m.; 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. (exterior is 24 hours)
Average Cost: FREE
#6 - The Grassalkovich Palace
The Grassalkovich Palace is the home of the president of Slovakia. If you’re lucky enough to get a tour inside, you will have to plan that in advance. Otherwise, you can see the palace from outside the gate (like we did). It was built in 1760 for a Hungarian aristocrat. Quickly, it became one of the main locations for Baroque culture and music. Composers, such as Franz Joseph Haydn first showcased his music here. Then, from 1939 - 45, it became the presidential seat of the First Slovak Republic during the Communist regime. At the end of Communism, the building was restored and became the official presidential house of Slovakia in 1996, as it is today.
Hours: 24 hours (only access inside during the month of June)
Average Cost: FREE
#5 - Slovak National Gallery
Although we came during their renovation period, there was still a lot to see during our visit. At the Slovak National Gallery, you will get to see art ranging from the medieval period to current artwork today. This museum is very unique because it showcases mostly pieces from local/national artists. You’ll get to see Slovakian art, essentially. There are even immersive rooms for you to explore and to have your chance at artwork through their many activities… very unique and refreshing from a standard national gallery.
Hours: 12:00 - 8:00 p.m. (Thursday); 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Friday - Sunday)
Average Cost: 4 €
#4 - Primacial Palace
The Primacial Palace is the home of the mayor of Bratislava. The construction began in 1777 and was completed in 1781. Perhaps its most famous bit of history is the 1805 signing of the Fourth Peace of Pressburg, which ended the War of the Third Coalition (traditionally thought of as Napoleon’s war). Here, the House of Mirrors is a must-see (although you can’t walk through it), along with beautiful tapestries, furniture, and other items on display.
Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (closed Monday)
Average Cost: 3 €
#3 - Slavin Memorial
The Slavin Memorial is a beautiful memorial on a hill top overlooking the city of Bratislava. It is a remembrance of all those who fought as Soviets during World War II as they fought with the Allies. There is a stunning 7-meter statue of a soldier holding up a flag to show patriotism and courage. As you walk through, you will see hundreds upon hundreds of gravestones of those who had fallen, making up the only military cemetery in Slovakia.
Hours: 24
Average Cost: FREE
#2 - Old Town/Old Market Hall
Perhaps one of our favourite parts of Bratislava is just wandering the Old Town. This is what you think of when you think of Europe: cobblestone streets, cute cafes, kind locals, and rich history. With its medieval past, you’ll be sure to find some plaques around for you to read some interesting stories. Along with that is the Old Market Hall. We were unable to see it, but we heard it is a must for anybody who visits on Saturday mornings. They have several pop-up cafes and restaurants, produce, and homemade goods all in a fun indoor atmosphere.
Hours: 24 (Old Market Hall open 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. on Saturdays)
Average Cost: FREE
#1 - Bratislava Castle
And finally, the best thing to do in Bratislava is to see Bratislava Castle. You can see it from every angle, so it will be hard to miss! While technically the castle was originally built in the 9th century, what you see today is a reconstruction of the castle from the 1950’s and 1960’s. It was converted into a palace and then more recently into a museum. The museum features history of the castle as well as national treasures, such as the crown jewels, armoury, ancient artifacts, and much more. Plus as a bonus, it has a gorgeous view from one of the 4 towers. Up there, you can catch stunning views of Bratislava, Austria, and even a little bit of Hungary out in the distance. It is a must-do while on your visit to Bratislava. You will not be disappointed!
Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (closed Tuesday)
Average Cost: 6 €
