Posted by Slovakia quickly sought independence after the end of socialism. The two-state union of Czechoslovakia was peacefully dissolved. The two independent states of Czech Republic and Slovakia were founded. This made Slovakia difficult to manage economically. It was only late that the leadership decided on reforms and leaning towards the West. In the final sprint, the country achieved EU membership together with its neighboring states Czech Republic, Poland and Hungary.
Excursion to Bratislava (from Vienna by train or boat)
Arrival / connections in the country
The transport connections to the old brother Czech Republic are by far the best. The roads and railways from Bratislava to nearby Vienna were only expanded in the 1990s. Since then there has been a direct train connection between the two Danube cities. You can quickly reach the Czech Republic, Hungary and Austria by train.
Anyone coming from Germany usually changes trains in Prague. The shortest and cheapest route from Germany to Ukraine leads through Slovakia. There are many trains and buses in the large eastern part of the country. The prices for public transport in Slovakia are rather cheap. Other goods and restaurants are also cheaper than in neighboring states. Many Viennese come across the nearby border to shop. Cigarettes and gasoline in particular are purchased.
At the beginning of 2009, Slovakia introduced the euro as a means of payment. The country was one of the first countries in Eastern Europe to introduce the euro. The economy has not developed any worse because of this, prices in the country are still relatively cheap. Slovakia is a good example of a country that benefited from the euro.
Video Top Sights in Slovakia (YouTube. English)
Sights in Slovakia
Bratislava (German: Pressburg)
Many tourists come to the capital of Slovakia because of the beautiful old town and the castle, which is over 1000 years old. The rest of the city isn’t particularly interesting, however. Prefabricated buildings and busy streets determine the cityscape. The capital of Slovakia is only 60 km away from the Austrian capital Vienna.
High Tatras: The High Tatras are the smallest high mountains in the world. It is 30 kilometers long and 20 km wide. Sometimes you feel like you’ve been transported to the Alps. However, the landscape is much more pristine. In the High Tatras, there are large numbers of storks, golden eagles, bears and lynxes. The most beautiful vacation spot is Stare Smokovec. The village, which is located at a height, can be reached by rack railway. A cable car from Stare Smokovec takes hikers to the summit regions every day in summer. As in the Alps, there are well-maintained hiking trails and catered huts with reasonable prices. The High Tatras are also known as an inexpensive ski resort. In Smokovec there is everything a tourist needs: restaurants, hotels, cheap guest houses, even mini golf, etc. The sights are the mountains, nature and animals.
Low Tatras: At around 2000 meters high, this by no means low mountain range is located not far from the High Tatras in the north of Slovakia. The area is known for caves. Demanovska Ice Cave and Demanovska Freedom Cave are the top attractions in this region of Slovakia.
Spis Castle:
Explore the magnificent Spis Castle, one of the largest castles in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the expansive courtyard, climb the tower for panoramic views, and immerse yourself in the medieval history of this architectural marvel.
Bojnice Castle:
A trip to Vojnice Castle, considered the most romantic castle in Slovakia. Admire fairytale architecture, stroll through beautiful English-style parks and experience the unique Vojnice Castle Festival, a fantastic annual event.
Slovak Paradise National Park:
Nature lovers will find solace in the Slovak Paradise National Park. Walk trails through gorges, traverse wooden ladders over waterfalls, and marvel at the beauty of natural wonders like Sucha Bela. This park offers a comprehensive experience of untouched nature.
Banská Štiavnica:
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage town of Banská Štiavnica, known for its mining history and well-preserved medieval architecture. Visit the old castle, stroll through the charming squares of the old town and discover the unique Calvary complex with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Orava Castle:
Perched on a high rock overlooking the Orava River, Orava Castle is a Gothic gem with a rich history. Stroll through the extensive grounds, visit the Orava Museum and admire the beautiful surroundings.
Bardejov:
Explore the well-preserved medieval town of Bardejov, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the historic squares, admire the wooden churches of the Carpathians and experience the charm of this atmosphere
London travel guide Dresden Travel Guide
Slovakia info |
|
| Residents of Slovakia | 5.5 million |
| Area of Slovakia | 49.000 km² |
| Inhabitants / km² | 112 (fairly dense population) |
| Capital of Slovakia | Bratislava (Pressburg) |
| Language | Slovak |
| religion | Roman Catholic (70%), Protestant (12%) |
| currency | Euro |
| gross domestic product | 21,000 US dollars / inhabitant in 2023 (one of the economically best states in Eastern Europe) |
| Visas | No, just ID card, Slovakia is in the EU |
| Area code of Germany | 00421 |
| Internet addresses | .sk |
| Vehicle license plate | SK |
