Have you thought of doing something exciting while being in Kraków for the weekend, or even considering a new holiday destination? I’ve got a fantastic suggestion for you. A day trip from Krakow to Slovakia is a marvelous idea whether you’re going solo, planning a romantic escapade, or arranging a fun-packed outing with the kids.
- Before going abroad, make sure you visited all the best attraction in Krakow: The Best Attractions in Krakow – From Castles to Kayaking
Why is that, you may ask? Here are a few reasons that I am convinced will entice you for a trip from Kraków to Slovakia:
- Affordability: You can score some decent accommodations in hotspots for just about 20 EUR per person.
- Low Admission Fees: Entry fees for most tourist attractions are usually just a few EUR.
- Diversity: Just like Poland, Slovakia boasts a wide range of complexity and variety.
- Friendly Locals: Slovakians are super friendly and welcoming, especially towards foreigners.
- Communication: Speaking with the locals is a breeze; they speak English very well.
- Proximity: The trip from Kraków to Barwinek only takes about 2,0 hours by car. If you want, you can make it a day trip.
Slovakia Day Trip Ideas From Kraków
I think these are enough reasons to tempt you into considering Slovakia as your next trip from Kraków. Now, let me walk you through some interesting activities you can do in Slovakia.
The Slovak Castles
In Slovakia, three local terms represent various forms of defensive and manor buildings that you should be aware of: hrad, zamok, and kastel. To my mind, the most captvating ones are those in ruins.
↳ Make sure to read my guide to the most amazing places to stay in Kraków:
How to Find Best Place to Stay in Krakow Old Town – Your Guide
These relics ignite your imagination and whisk you away to times long past. Conversely, the restored and developed castles, filled with exhibitions and antiques, give a deeper insight into the local history and culture. I believe it’s worth visiting both types.
- By the way, if you like castles you should definitely check those nearby Krakow. You can learn more by reading this article: 10 Extraordinary Castles Near Kraków for a Perfect Day Trip
Let me introduce you to some of these enchanting places:
- Spiš Castle (Spisky hrad): The most popular castle ruin in Slovakia, and also the largest castle complex in Central Europe. I can tell you that this castle is a must-see and can be a day trip on its own, considering a visit could take half a day or more. And, if you happen to visit during a special event, like a knight tournament, you might want to stay even longer.
Google Maps Location: Here - Strecno Castle: This one’s perfect if you’re into hiking the trails of the Little Fatra. But even if you’re not planning a trekking trip, it’s worth making the journey to see this property. A beautiful museum is housed within the castle, and there are other attractions nearby like the painted village of Cicmany or the Sulovskie Skaly walking reserve.
Google maps Location: Here
Exploring the Hidden Charms of Slovak Castles
Continuing our castle adventure, Kežmarok Castle is another spot I’d like you to discover. This well-maintained fortress hosts an enthralling museum that I can tell you is worth every minute of your time.
The exhibits are neatly arranged into themes, allowing you to dive into a variety of topics – from the history of the region and court life, to customs, law, and defense mechanisms. Trust me, the 3 Euros spent on a ticket to this castle will be among the best investments of your trip.
Next on the list is the Lietava Castle ruins. Being one of the most visited ruins in Slovakia, these remnants from the past surely deserve a spot on your itinerary. During the Middle Ages, the Lietava fortress was deemed impregnable. Today, in addition to the remains of the castle, you’ll also enjoy splendid views of the surrounding area. Plus, guess what? Admission to this monument is free!
Should you consider staying close, here are some recomended accommodations based on different budgets:
- Luxurious stay: Hotel Encian, Rajecke Teplice, from EUR 70 /person
- Budget-friendly stay: Penzion Vila Milica, Rajecke Teplice, from EUR 20 /person
- Moderate stay: Vila Viktoria, Rajecke Teplice, from EUR 45 /person
Next up is Orava Castle, one of the most popular attractions in Slovakia. If you want to avoid my mistake of not being able to enter due to closing hours, be sure to check the opening hours and the last admission time before your visit.
Mountains in Slovakia – Nature’s Wonder
Now, let’s take a detour from castle exploration. I think it’s worth to say that Slovakia’s mountains and breathtaking hiking trails are some of the country’s best attractions. I’ve selected a few locations for you to enjoy a light several-hour walk, whether you’re with a group of friends or on a fun-filled weekend with your kids.
- If you’re interested in visiting Tatra Mountains, make sure you read this article: Tatra Mountains – An Insider’s Guide to All Attractions and Info
Súľovské Skaly is the perfect place for a recreational hike of a few hours, offering views that’ll surely leave you spellbound. The distinctive rock formations created by conglomerate erosion are a sight to behold. Moreover, you’ll find a bonus attraction in the form of castle ruins nestled into the rock at the route’s highest point.
- Here is the Súľovské Skaly Google Maps location.
Once again, here are some accommodation options in case you want to stay close:
- Luxurious stay: Hotel Encian, Rajecke Teplice, from EUR 80/person
- Budget-friendly stay: Penzion Vila Milica, Rajecke Teplice, from EUR 20/person
- Moderate stay: Vila Viktoria, Rajecke Teplice, from EUR 45 /person
Finally, let’s check out Janosikove Diery. It’s a unique ravine complex, carved by mountain streams and sprinkled with waterfalls, located at the base of Veľký Rozsutec (Little Fatra). If you like climbing ladders, walking on platforms, and don’t mind getting a little wet, then this is the place for you. The Janosikove Diery trail forms a loop, starting and ending in Stefanova. Just remember to pack a waterproof jacket!
- Before visiting this place, make sure you read this article too: Janosikove Diery (Mala Fatra) – A Hiker’s Guide to Parking, Map and Trail
Ride High Above the Tatra Mountains at Lomnica
Ever dreamt of experiencing the majestic Tatra Mountains from a bird’s eye view, but without the sweat-inducing climb? If that’s a yes, then I invite you to Lomnica. Towering at 2634 meters, it’s the second highest peak of the Tatra Mountains after Gerlach, even higher than Rysy!
What’s even better, you can reach the top with a simple gondola lift ride. At the summit, you’ll find a cozy café, a mini-hotel, an astronomical observatory, and a network of platforms where you can safely marvel at the stunning peaks surrounding you.
Looking for a place to stay nearby? Here are some recommendations:
- Quaint stay: Villa Buky, Tatranská Lomnica, from EUR 35 /person
- Budget-friendly stay: Vila Mala Marta, Tatranská Lomnica, from EUR 18 /person
- Mid-range stay: Penzion Lesna, Tatranská Lomnica, from EUR 25 /person
Slovak Paradise – Little Thrill
The Slovak Paradise is a karst plateau, sliced by ravines with countless streams and waterfalls. Its tourist trail is a one-way loop chock-full of ladders, platforms, chains, and ropes. Need an adrenaline fix? I am convinced this is your place!
- You can read more about Slovak Paradise in the other article I wrote here: Slovak Paradise Trip – Trail Routes, Accommodation and Parking
The Magic of Unique Villages in Slovakia
Stepping into a painted village feels like you’re walking into a live fairy tale. I was deeply enchanted by the sight of nearly identical houses adorned with floral motifs. I don’t know who came up with this ingenious idea, but they deserve a standing ovation.
Next up, we have Cicmany – a must-visit while hiking in Little Fatra. This village is filled with dark brown and black wooden buildings, ornamented with white repeating patterns. While it might seem odd, it’s actually a brilliant strategy to attract tourists. And you’ve got to admit, it’s quite charming and creative.
Considering staying nearby? Check these options:
- Luxurious stay: Hotel Encian, Rajecke Teplice, from EUR 45 /person
- Budget-friendly stay: Penzion Vila Milica, Rajecke Teplice, from EUR 21 /person
- Mid-range stay: Vila Viktoria, Rajecke Teplice, from EUR 34 /person
Last but not least, we have Vlkolinec – a living museum showcasing original, unchanged 18th-century buildings. This village is so impeccably preserved, it’s earned a spot on the UNESCO list and has been hailed as the best preserved village settlement in the Carpathian arc. If you need more reasons to visit, I think these accolades speak for themselves.
- Here is the place on the Google Maps.
Slovak Caves – Underground Wonders
Regardless of the season, a cave tour is always an amazing option. Whether you’re seeking to cool down in the summer or warm up in the winter, caves provide a comfortable respite. Plus, you get to witness the awe-inspiring limestone marvels formed over millions of years.
Located beneath the Low Tatras, the Demänovská Cave of Freedom is recognized as one of the most stunning caves in Europe. Stretching almost 8.5 km long, tourists can explore just over 2 km of this underground beauty during a roughly 100-minute tour.
- You can read more about caves in Tatra Mountains in this article I wrote.
In case you’re wondering where to stay:
- Mid-range stay: Pricat Voyage, Liptovsky Mikulas, from EUR 10 /person
- Budget-friendly stay: Vilka Bucek, Liptovsky Mikulas, from EUR 23 /person
- Mid-range stay: Privat Greenland, Liptovsky Mikulas, from EUR 15 /person
The Belianska Cave might not be as grand as the Demänovská Cave, but it is equally worth your time. It holds the distinction of being the only tourist-accessible cave in the High Tatras. The tour stretches about 1.4 km. And here’s a fun fact for you: in the 18th century, this cave was a hotspot for gold prospectors.
Other Places Steeped in History
Finally, let’s delve into some history-filled locations that have been significant to both Poland and Slovakia, where the histories of these two nations intertwine.
The Slovak Valley of Death is the site of one of the most intense armored battles of the Dukla-Prešov operation, fought between the Red Army and the Wehrmacht during World War II. An open-air museum now occupies this area, spreading across a 20 km² terrain adorned with original tanks, guns, and planes.
- This is Google Map location of Valley of Death in Slovakia.
It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in military history and also makes for a fascinating trip for school-aged kids. To get there, look for a monument depicting a Soviet T-34 tank ramming a German tank off the main Barwinek – Świdnik road, and just head straight from there.
The Red Monastery, one of Slovakia’s most visited sacred buildings, dates back to the 14th century. Today, it houses a museum within its impressive monastery complex. If you’ve ever wondered about monastic life—what the brothers did daily, how they managed—you’ll find your answers there.
So, if you want to step back in time and feel like monks for a moment, be sure to check it out during your trip to the Pieniny Mountains, whether you’re hiking to Trzy Korony or Sokolica, or rafting on the Dunajec River.
- You can read more about rafting on Dunajec River here.
Slovakia’s Thermal Baths
Slovakia is teeming with thermal baths, each offering a unique experience. Some are typical aqua parks teeming with attractions for children, while others are relaxation and health centers where you can indulge in passive leisure in warm, highly mineralized water.
- I cover everything about thermal baths in Tatra Mountains in several other articles but I suggest you read this one: Tatra Mountains Thermal Pools – Which Ones Should You Visit?
Tatralandia holds the title for the largest aqua park in Slovakia. Whether you’re visiting with kids or a group of friends, this park is unrivaled in terms of the sheer fun it offers. You could spend an entire day here and still have plenty left to explore.
Winter is the most enchanting season to visit Tatralandia, where you can plunge into the hot water and then step out onto the snow right beside the pool for a refreshing cooldown. During summer, the park buzzes with even more attractions.
As a modern alternative to Tatralandia, AquaCity Poprad is situated in the eastern part of Slovakia, closer to Rzeszów. This vast leisure and entertainment complex offers an abundance of attractions, with the swimming pools being just one of them.
Thermal Park Vrbov is a recent discovery of mine and a departure from your typical aqua park. Its primary function is to provide rest and therapy. The natural, highly mineralized thermal waters that fill the facility’s pools are particularly beneficial for rheumatism and skin conditions.
- Thermal pots are great forever well-being, you can read more here in my other article: Discover the Healing Powers of Hot Springs in Zakopane, Poland
In my personal experience, they had a profoundly positive impact on my wellbeing. Surprisingly, even the cold rain falling on my head didn’t dampen my enjoyment.
The photographs used in this list are derived from our personal collection, as well as the Slovak Tourist Organization’s website: slovakia.travel.
Get ready to dip into these soothing thermal waters on your next trip to Slovakia. Whether you’re seeking a fun-filled day at the aqua park or some quiet healing time in nature’s own spa, Slovakia’s thermal baths promise a rejuvenating exprience.
References:
- https://slovakia.travel/en/national-park-of-high-tatras
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High_Tatras
- https://www.vt.sk
