We visited Bratislava in June and fell in love with this charming city. My husband and I needed a city break and decided to go somewhere not far since we were traveling by car. We also wanted to go to a place we haven’t been before. That’s how we chose Bratislava. In this blog post I will tell you what to see and do in Bratislava.
Bratislava is a capital of Slovakia and the largest city in the country although it has a population of 430,000. Metropolitan area of the city is home to more than 650,000 people. Bratislava is one of European cities that straddles the Danube river.
What to see and do in Bratislava?
The first thing we did is eat! Instead of five hours drive it took us eight and a half hours because of the traffic at the border crossing between Serbia and Hungary. We decided to go to a pub that was closest to our apartment. We enjoyed some traditional food. After that, we went to The Old town (Staré Mesto). It was already late to do some sightseeing so we had a drink and watched people go by.
BRATISLAVA OLD TOWN
The next morning we decided to walk to the center again and started exploring the lovely streets of Bratislava Old Town. Here, you can see the prettiest cobblestone streets, pretty pastel houses, historic buildings, but also the cutest coffee shops and restaurants. Strolling the streets of Bratislava OId Town will make you feel like you’re in a fairytale! I was immediately in love!
I will mention some of my favorite places located in The Old Town of Bratislava and things you really need to see.
The Main Square (Hlavné Námestie) is where you can see the Old Town Hall. You can climb up the Old Town Hall and visit Bratislava City Museum.
Throughout history The Main square was a place of gatherings, welcoming ceremonies of sovereigns and the main market place. We loved this square and took quite a lot of photos here. You can have a cup of coffee and some sweets in one of the coffee shops while admiring the architecture of the buildings surrounding the square. From here you can continue to walk the lovely streets of The Old Town.
Primate’s Palace serves as the seat of the Mayor of Bratislava, so I didn’t expect it to be – pink! Oh, yes, pale pink facade, the fountain in the atrium and such a peaceful vibe. You can visit the inside of the palace, but only a part of it.
Michael’s Gate is one of my favorite places in Bratislava Old Town.
It’s the only preserved gate of the city fortification system. it was built in the 14th century. You can climb on top of the tower and enjoy the most beautiful view of The Old Town. You can easily miss the door that leads to the top since there is no clear sign, so if you’re in The Old Town and standing in front of the gate you’ll see a wooden door on the right. That’s where you want to go! While climbing very narrow staircase you’ll be able to see the Museum of Arms as well. The entrance is 5 euro per person. Once you’re on the small terrace enjoy the view!
St Martin’s Cathedral is the largest and one of the oldest churches in Bratislava. It is located between The Old Town and Bratislava Castle and it looks very impressive. This is not the usual view of the Cathedral since I love taking photos from different points of view. You’ll find it looking much different if you search it on the internet.
There are several statues in The Old Town and my favorite is Cumil – Man at work. The legend says if you touch his head and make a wish it will come true.
BRATISLAVA CASTLE
After a nice walk in The Old Town, in the afternoon we sat to have lunch and after that went to see Bratislava Castle (Bratislavsky hrad). The first thing I want to mention is that Bratislava castle is closed on Mondays (keep that in mind when planning your trip).
Bratislava castle was built in the 9th century and it stands proudly on the hill overlooking the Danube river, about 85 meters above the water level. You can walk to the castle from St Martin’s Cathedral. It will take you about 10 minutes.
The main castle includes four towers and the tallest one is called Crown Tower. You can climb the tower through the Museum of History, which is located inside the castle. Finally, you can check out the views from the yard in front of the castle which are pretty amazing.
There’s a beautiful garden behind the castle and a lovely park where you can rest and enjoy the view as well.
After that, while going down the hill you can see the cutest streets. Be sure to stop by for some photos and have a coffee or an ice cream.
THE BLUE CHURCH
The Blue church (St Elizabeth’s Church) is a beautiful art nouveau building. It is located in Bezrucova street, about 10-15 minutes walk from The Old Town. The church has a round tower which is 38 meters high. The church was closed when we were there but we were told that even the interior is also blue. This is one of the Instagrammable spots in Bratislava.
While you’re here take a look across the street because you’ll see another art nouveau building which is actually a school. It was designed in the 20th century by the same Hungarian architect who designed the Blue Church.
WHERE TO EAT
My number one recommendation is Mondieu, a beautifu cafe-restaurant in Bratislava Old town. You can find it in several locations in The Old town. Their breakfast is the best! Croissants are so good that I think I could sit there and eat all day. They also have good coffee.
Some other places I loved in Bratislava are Urban cafe and Urban bistro which have a beautiful interior and really good food. There are many cute coffee shops and restaurants in Bratislava that you’ll have a hard time choosing where to sit.
MORE ON WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN BRATISLAVA
On the side where we entered the city by car the first thing we saw was the bridge and a UFO. Yes, there’s an observation deck and a restaurant called UFO so if you’re up for a dinner with a view go for it. There is an elevator leading to the top.
Window art near St Martin’s Cathedral. You won’t miss it and it looks beautiful!
The scary looking Neo-renaissance building across St Martin’s Cathedral. It is called Pharmacy Salvator. It was actually constructed by pharmacist Rudolf Adler in 1904. The ground floor is now abandoned and the upper floors contain flats.
I don’t know exactly why but I find this building very attractive. It looks scary but at the same time beautiful. See for yourself!
Bratislava is a lovely, quiet and very underrated European city. I can’t recommend it enough! Even if you didn’t plan a trip to Bratislava but you find yourself in Vienna or Budapest hop on a train or a bus and visit this gem! It’s only one hour train ride from Vienna and about two and a half hours from Budapest. It’s definitely worth a visit even if only for a day!
You can see more photos of Bratislava on my Instagram profile!
If you have any questions feel free to contact me!
