10 Best Things to Do in Bratislava

Bratislava Castle is the centrepiece of the city. Head up to the imposing rectangular building that overlooks the Danube from an isolated hill of the Little Carpathians to join the stream of visitors at the Slovak National Museum. Here, you’ll learn about the country’s history from the Middle Ages to now.

The real hero of this area, though, is the Treasury. Once the nation's financial heart, it's now home to gold and silver works from the region. Often missed by visitors, you can enjoy your time browsing with just a few other guests.

Drink in the tranquil atmosphere as you meander the cobblestoned pedestrian streets of the Old Town, where souvenir merchants and musicians spill onto the passages. Dip into stores selling local wares or examine the intricacy of the colourful facades.

Admire the contrasting architecture to find Gothic cathedrals sat among classicist-style facades and occasional baroque features. The city is known for the quirky statues sprinkled throughout its streets. A favourite among visitors is Man at work, the most photographed of them all.

Trimmed by lofty buildings in pastel-shaded hues, Main Square is home to Roland’s Fountain. Pop into Zeppelin Café in Hlavné námestie for a caffeine boost before circumnavigating the square to take in the sights. The Town Hall is worth a visit as it houses an exhibition on ancient torture devices at the Bratislava City Museum... if you’re into that kind of thing.

Tap into local folklore at Roland’s Fountain. A legend suggests the knight set atop the central column comes to life and bows in the direction of the old Town Hall, so keep an eye on him while you’re doing your morning people-watching.

Serving as an entryway into Bratislava’s Old Town, St Michael’s Gate is a great example of Baroque architecture. It’s the only one of the original 4 medieval gates still standing, and once protected the eastern fortifications of the city. As you pass under the gate, take note of the zero kilometre plate that lists the distance of 29 capital cities from Bratislava.

Familiarise yourself with exceptional views over the Slovakian capital from the upper terrace, which rises 51 metres above the streets below. Then head inside to explore the Museum of Arms collection of weaponry, including the documentation of the development of firearms.

Exploring Primate’s Palace is one of the best things to do in Bratislava because it's one of the best-preserved and most charming classicist buildings in the city. Mostly used for council meetings now, much of the 2nd floor is open to visitors. Showcasing a number of 17th- and 18th-century tapestries, the palace holds a rich history that shouldn’t be missed.

Be fascinated by the detail inside the Hall of Mirrors, which is dressed in gold, or plan your visit for one of the concerts. The hall has epic high ceilings, large chandeliers and tall golden mirrors.

A masterpiece of Art Nouveau design, the Church of St Elisabeth looks like it’s been pulled right from a whimsical children’s fairytale. More commonly known as the ‘Blue Church’ (for obvious reasons), even the roof is dressed in blue-glazed ceramics.

Built in the early 20th century and consecrated in October 1913, the Blue Church is smaller than most European churches. Step inside for more sapphire shades in one of the city's most notable buildings. The 36.8-metre round tower is certainly an iconic addition to the skyline.

Primate's Palace is considered one of Bratislava's most beautiful buildings. Inside this 18th-century neoclassic structure, you can visit the impressive Hall of Mirrors – where the 1805 Peace Treaty of Pressburg between Austria and France was signed. This impressive room now serves as the seat of the Mayor of Bratislava, hosting city council meetings throughout the year.

The palace also hosts a portrait gallery, ornate chandeliers, a red carpet, opulent stairways, and a collection of rare English tapestries. Primate's Palace sits in the Old Town of Bratislava, near Františkáni (Church of the Annunciation).

Pull on your hiking shoes for a relaxing journey along the 4-km Educational Nature Trail in Devinska Kobyla. Reconnect with some of Slovakia’s best nature routes, showcasing the rich history of the area and scarcity of the natural flora throughout the Little Carpathians. Be sure to check out the Sandberg area, where you can see the fossils of sea life from around 15 million years ago.

Up for something more challenging? Hit the Dubravka to Devinska Kobyla circuit for a 350-metre-elevation route through the nature reserve, all within reach of the city.

Set atop a craggy cliff overlooking the junction of the Danube and the Morava rivers, the ancient ruins of Devín Castle offer spectacular views across Austria, with the Alps in the distance. Just 10 km from Bratislava’s centre, the journey here is half of the experience. Either relax by taking it all in with a cruise along the Danube, catch local transport or enjoy a scenic bike ride.

History buffs can check out rich archaeological finds and a biography of the castle in the permanent exhibition or simply enjoy the unspoiled beauty of the surrounding area.

Take the lift 84.6 metres up to the open-air observation deck of the Bridge of the Slovak National Uprising (Most SNP) – also known as the UFO bridge – for panoramic views across Bratislava. The iconic and distinctive structure was considered an engineering marvel when it opened in 1972.

Unwind from the day’s adventures with a drink and a meal at the innovative international restaurant that floats above the pillar of the Most SNP. While there is a small fee to get to the observation deck, it's deducted from your bill if you eat in the restaurant.