Why Bratislava? Well, it’s only a short train ride (about 45-50min) from Vienna. The US dollar goes very far there and you can enjoy an amazing European city in just one day. Most of the sites you can get to by walking. No taxi or bus needed. This is just a partial list. There are many more sites in and around the city.

1. Devin Castle

This is one of the oldest castles in Slovakia, with Devin dating back to 864. Getting there from the city is very easy. Take Bus 29 from “Most SNP” stop next to the UFO Bridge up to “Štrbská, Hrad Devín”, takes about 20-30 minutes. It’s a short walk down to the castle entrance. I highly recommend visiting on a quiet week day. There were only maybe eight people there when I went. The castle overlooks the Danube. Only takes about an hour to explore the entire place. The views are beautiful from the top.

2. UFO Observation Deck

This is maybe the most visible of all sights in Bratislava. The UFO Tower offers awesome panoramic views. I went during the day, but a clear night would be amazing with the lights of the city. It only costs about $10 USD to go up there and it’s worth it. The restaurant has a solid menu for food and drinks.

3. Blue Church of Saint Elizabeth

I only saw the Blue Church from the outside. Definitely worth a stop. If it’s sunny out, the colors will really show.

 

 

4. Bratislava Castle

This is a must see for sure. Bratislava Castle is quite big and much of it can be seen without an entrance fee. The Garden was incredible. I went mid week which had less visitors, and would avoid weekends if possible. Side note, it does cost a couple coins to use the clean bathrooms there.

5. Schöne Náci

There was always a line of people to get a photo with him when I walked by. Of course, I did the typical solo traveler selfie. So what about him? Wiki explains it good:

“Schöner Náci was the son of a shoemaker and grandson of a famous clown, also Ignác Lamár, and was inspired by the latter’s example to bring happiness to the streets of the city. He walked around the Old Town and in particular the stretch from Michael’s Gate to the river, in top hat and tails, greeting women with the words, “I kiss your hand” in German, Hungarian and Slovak. He received free food from several of the city’s cafes, and supported himself with occasional cleaning work.”

6. Man at Work

Not sure the whole story here. Again, there’s probably going to be a line to take a photo with him. It’s basically a bronze statue of a sewer worker in a man hole.

7. Michael’s Gate

This is a picturesque street with lots of shops and restaurants leading up to Michael’s Gate. There is also a museum there.

8. Doorways and Street Art

Like many European cities, there are numerous photo worthy doors, street art and sculptures peppered around town. This is a small sample of what you can discover exploring Bratislava.

If you have any questions about visiting Bratislava and other things to see there, I’d be happy to answer!

P.S. Be sure to pick up a traditional Slovakian corn husk doll.