The majority of people are unaware that Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is only 50 kilometres or an hour’s drive away from Vienna.

I recently had the chance to visit Slovakia for a few weeks. I’ve compiled a list of the top 10 destinations in Slovakia, some of which came highly recommended by friends who live there.

Since Slovakia is a small nation, even a brief stay of a few days or weeks would be worthwhile to see these locations.

1. Košice
Košice exudes the appearance and allure of a modest, international city. It is visually appealing and boasts one of the best-preserved ancient town centres in the nation. There is a pleasant mediaeval sense to the buildings and architecture in the pedestrianised Old Town Centre.

Cobblestone alleys branch off in all directions, and the main street is lined with bustling cafes and restaurants. The great St. Elizabeth Gothic cathedral is illuminated with a multitude of colours throughout the evening, which is when we felt this city to be at its most attractive.

2. The Tatra Mountains
The Tatra Mountains, which form Slovakia’s border with Poland, are regarded as the country’s highest mountain range. The High Tatras are a highly well-liked skiing destination in the nation because of their altitude. Compared to France, Austria, or the Swiss Alps, the High Tatras provide a more reasonably priced alternative for a skiing vacation.

3. Levoča
Levoča is renowned for its aesthetically beautiful town centre and its old town walls.

Due to the numerous Renaissance-era buildings in the town, the majority of the Old Town is recognised as a World Heritage site. These structures have all been exquisitely maintained.

4. Čičmany
This well-preserved village with its timber-framed homes was founded in 1272.
The distinctive white patterns that are painted on the outer walls of the houses that adorn them make Čičmany stand out. The village’s traditional dances, clothes, and music have all been preserved. It was a pleasure to discover this incredibly charming village.
5. Castle Spiš
You have to see the UNESCO-listed remnants of this amazing castle, which is situated in Slovakia’s east. The castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and features an actual mediaeval dungeon, kitchen, bedroom, toilet, and armoury.

6. The Trnava
Situated on the banks of the Trnávka River, Trnava is just 50 kilometres away from Bratislava, the country’s capital. This city’s numerous churches inside its city walls have earned it the moniker “Slovak Rome.”
7. Bojnice
Bojnice, a historic town, is situated by the banks of the Nitra River. Located in Bojnice, directly below the Bojnice Castle, is the oldest zoo in the country. With good cause, this is one of Slovakia’s most popular castles.

8. Štiavnica Banská
of Slovakia’s oldest towns. Because of the enormous gold and silver reserves, it used to be among the richest. In the 16th and 17th centuries, wealthy miners constructed a great deal of exquisite architecture here.
9. Bratislava, the capital and largest city of Slovakia, is among the world’s newest cities. Additionally, the population appears to be young. The little metropolis of Bratislava appears to have both a vibrant social scene and a charming old side.
10. Velkolínec
A charming tiny village with views of the surrounding rolling meadows and mountains, located in the middle of Slovakia. This settlement was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1993. Its history extends back to 1376.