Even by European standards, Bratislava, Slovakia, is a small capital city at just under half a million residents. But don’t let that fool you — the city is packed with things to do.
Bratislava is a foodie’s paradise, a city of fairy-tale palaces and stunning architecture, and a great place to visit for those wanting an affordable European holiday.
While most visitors who stop in Bratislava are just passing by — and on their way to the country’s incredible mountains and national parks — the city has much to offer, and it’s worth exploring. Whether you’re looking for castles, unique buildings, or quirky art, Bratislava won’t disappoint. Plan your sightseeing with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Bratislava.
1. Bratislava Castle
The massive four-tower structure is hard to miss anywhere you are in Bratislava, as it sits in the middle of town, atop a rocky hill. Not only do you get a great view of Bratislava from the towers, but on a clear day, you can see all the way into Austria and parts of Hungary. The oldest of the towers, the 47-meter-tall Crown Tower, dates back to the 13th century and once housed the crown jewels.
The castle went through a number of renovations over the centuries, including a large expansion and conversion of the castle when Maria Theresa of Austria became queen in 1740. In the early 1800s, however, the castle went through a series of disasters: first, it was shot with cannons by Napoleon, then it caught fire just a few years later and was eventually abandoned and left in ruins. It wasn’t until 1953 that restoration work started.
Today, the castle is home to a branch of the Slovak National Museum, housing documents, photographs, and objects showcasing the development of the area starting in the Middle Ages. You’ll also find the remains of the 11th-century Great-Moravian basilica on the grounds of the castle.
Address: Hrad, 811 06 Bratislava, Slovakia
2. Michael’s Gate
Michael’s Gate is the only remaining city gate from the fortified walls and towers built in the 1300s.
At the time, the only way in and out of Bratislava was through one of the secured four city gates. The gate went through several reconstructions through the years, including a Baroque-inspired one in 1758 that included the addition of the current massive St. Michael and the Dragon statue on top of the gate.
Today, the tower houses an exhibition of weapons, as well as documents, photographs, and models showcasing the history of the city walls and how they influenced the city over the centuries. Visitors can also make their way up to the top of the tower to access a balcony that opens up over the Old City and offers one of the best views in town.
Address: Michalská ulica 22 806/24, 811 03 Staré Mesto, Slovakia
3. Slovak National Theatre
The Slovak National Theatre consists of two buildings: a Neo-Renaissance one in Old Town — which originally opened in 1886 as the City Theater — and a newly designed structure that opened in 2007. Although the newer theater officially holds all three ensembles (opera, ballet, and drama), both buildings are used for performances and practice.
The old theater is located right on Hviezdoslavovo Square, in an area famous for its café offerings. When it first opened, it only featured Hungarian and German theater performances, and it wasn’t until after the end of WWII that operas started to be presented in their original language (with Slovak subtitles).
The new theater sits on the banks of the Danube river, in an upscale residential area famous for its upmarket shops and restaurants.
In recent years, the theaters have focused on a mix of foreign performers and shows with traditional writers known worldwide.
Address: Pribinova 17, Staré Mesto Bratislava Slovakia
4.Hviezdoslav Square
The Hviezdoslavovo námestie town square has been around for over 1,000 years in one form or another. It was named after Pavol Országh Hviezdoslav, Slovakia’s most beloved poet — you can see a statue of him next to one of the park’s fountains. In its modern incarnation, the square is a pedestrian green zone with benches, fountains, and an outdoor podium where live music and special cultural events often take place.
The Slovak National Opera Theater and the Slovak Philharmonic sit next to the square, with cafés and restaurants lining up the streets around it. In summer, the square is a popular meeting point, while in winter it becomes the main destination for Christmas markets.
5.Grassalkovich Palace
A Rococo/Baroque building with an exquisite formal French garden, the Grassalkovich Palace is the official residence of Slovakia’s president since 1996.
The building dates back to the 1700s and was originally used for aristocratic society events and musical performances — Haydn premiered and conducted some of his most famous works here.
The gardens of the palace are open to the public, and visitors can walk around from dawn to dusk to discover the many old trees; a statue of the Empress Maria Theresa (who originally ordered the construction of the palace); a number of statues by old and modern Slovak sculptors; and the famous Fountain of Youth, a beautiful design of three naked statues playing in the water.
Address: Hodžovo námestie 2978/1, 811 06 Bratislava, Slovakia
