Bratislava: 5 Things To Do During Your First Visit!

Bratislava Attractions

I was not quite sure what to expect from Bratislava. Located in Slovakia (which is an easy trip from Vienna or Budapest), the city is small, but it runs deep with culture. As much as there is a deep sense of history, that ideology appears to bump heads with modern sensibilities that favor nightclubs and inexpensive bars. Medieval with historical architecture that is as impressive as it is gothic, this city is on the rise. Here are 5 things to do Bratislava.

5. Bratislava Castle

Located across the Danube River from the old town, the fortress is a pretty quick walk up some impressive stairs. Wander around the fortifications and lose yourself in a bit of daydreaming about what it must have been like to be royalty in the stone or bronze age. Check out the view of the city from the different levels. It is impressive!

Pro Tip: Not as grand as other castles in Europe, touring the inside is not necessary to get a sense of this place. Save yourself a few euros and walk around the different courtyards and gates. 

4. Cafe Culture

The pastry shops and cafes in the heart of the old town have surprisingly good java. This city takes coffee seriously and lingering in a café while people watching is a great way to spend the afternoon.

Pro Tip: There is no line for leaving a tip, so make sure to tell your server before your card is swiped through the machine. If you forget, just round up and leave cash.

3. St. Martin’s Cathedral

Gorgeous, gothic, and from the 13^thcentury, this place is old. Dripping in grandeur, royal coronations were held here. Not quite as dramatic as other churches throughout Europe, there is something that feels welcoming about this space. Drop in and marvel at the stately arches.

Pro Tip: With no entrance fees, this place is easy to drop in for a few minutes. Bonus, it’s pretty much never crowded.

2. Cumil, a legend in Bratislava

Old town is brimming with statues that you can accidentally bump into or trip over. Cumil, perhaps a throwback to the KGB, is known as the watcher. Locals told me that he is taking it easy after spending his days scouring the sewer system. But, others insisted that he is a peeping tom. You decide what you think he is doing. Just be sure to look down, because he is literally popping out of a manhole cover.

Pro Tip: Local legends say that he will grant you a wish if you touch his hat and keep your desires a secret. It is worth a shot…

1. UFO Bratislava

It is funny, I thought I would have read more about this place, because it is amazing. The view from the observation deck provides a 360-degree view of the city. With Bratislava Castle and the Danube as the star attractions of your gaze, UFO is not to be missed. If you can only do one thing in Bratislava, do this! You will not regret it.

The elevator moves so quickly that it feels like it might go flying. Don’t worry, you will be fine. Also, disregard the entrance that looks a little, umm, suggestive. All of that stuff is superfluous, because UFO (Watch. Taste. Groove) is awesome. And, I’m still unclear how Watch. Taste. Groove translates into UFO. But, honestly, it doesn’t matter.

Pro Tip: After you have taken selfies on top of the observation deck, pop back downstairs for a cocktail (they have some serious mixology going on here). Or, go at night, and have a fancy dinner with the bright lights of Bratislava as your backdrop. Just be sure to make a reservation if you go in the evening.