One of the best things to do when you’re visiting Vienna is taking a day trip to Bratislava. The city has beautiful corners and much more to offer than one might think. Bratislava is a rather small city, which is still worth visiting, even if you only have limited time. In this article you will find out what sights you should not miss in Bratislava.
For a city trip, I would choose Bratislava in combination with Vienna. Moreover, the highlights of the city can easily be visited in one day.
One day in Bratislava - Day Trip from Vienna
How much time should I plan for Bratislava?
From Vienna, Bratislava is the ultimate day trip. And a few hours are enough to explore the highlights of Bratislava. The capital of Slovakia has a compact city center and most of the sights and attractions can be easily reached on foot.
How to get to Bratislava
Visiting Bratislava from Vienna makes a perfect combination. From Vienna there are several possibilities to travel to Bratislava, however I recommend traveling by train from Vienna. Bratislava city center can be reached from Vienna within an hour by train, thus the two cities can be ideally combined. This makes Bratislava an ideal destination for a short vacation or a weekend getaway. You can find more information and buy your ticket on Austria's official public transportation website.
A special way to travel to Bratislava from Vienna is by ship. The most popular way is to take the catamaran called Twin City Liner. It starts in the center of Vienna and reaches Bratislava after about 75 minutes. The trip operates up to 4 times a day depending on the season and costs 38€ one way. You can find more information and buy your ticket here.
THINGS TO DO ON A DAY TRIP IN Bratislava
Bratislava Castle
The castle is located on a proximity overlooking the city. Therefore, it is great for getting an overview of the city center. It takes about a quarter of an hour to walk to the top. Stroll around the castle garden and enjoy the view of the city from the castle wall. Moreover, you don't have to pay an entrance fee to enter the castle premises. If you are interested, there is a historical museum in the castle for 10€.
The old town of Bratislava and the Main Square
To get to know the city and its atmosphere from its best side, you should take a stroll through the old town. Just let yourself wander - you certainly won't get lost.
The Main Square is the historical center of Bratislava.
Funny and worth seeing are the bronze statues in the city center of Bratislava. Marvel at the most famous figure, the curious Cumil - Man at Work, as he looks out of the canal. You can find him at the corner of Fishermen's gate and Panská.
The Old Town Hall - The most beautiful view of the old town of Bratislava
Located at the Main Square, you should definitely visit the Old Town Hall. To admire the old town from above, I would recommend climbing up the 45 meter high tower in the Old Town Hall. Once at the top, you have a great panoramic view.
The Blue Church
Known for its blue color, the Art Nouveau Church of St. Elizabeth is one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city. It is located 15 minutes from the Old Town's Main Square, however I totally recommend walking there!
The UFO Observation Deck
At the top of the Slovak National Revolt Bridge, officially called Most SNP, the so-called UFO hovers at a height of about 85 meters. This peculiar construction houses a viewing platform as well as a restaurant.
Information about the observation deck:
Entry: 7,40€
Opening hours: Daily 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Palais Grassalkovich
Grassalkovich Palace is also known as the Presidential Palace and the official seat of the president of Slovakia. When traveling by train to Bratislava, you will pass it on your way from the main train station to the Old Town. The Presidential Gardens, which are located behind the palace are open to the public.
St. Martin's Cathedral
St. Martin's Cathedral is the second most popular tourist attraction of Bratislava and is located below Bratislava Castle. You can enter St. Martin's Cathedral for free, however if you want to tour the underground catacombs, you have to pay a small fee. You can find more information and the opening hours here.
St. Michael's Gate
Palais des Primas
One of the best places to see in Bratislava is the Primate's Palace. It located right next to the Main Square and thanks to its pink color a perfect photo spot. To enter the beautiful building you have to pay only 3€.
The Old Slovak National Theater
The 'Old' Slovak National Theater has been restored and there was a new modern building added behind the old one. It is located by the Hviezdoslav Square
CONCLUSION
I think this list of the best things to do in Bratislava will help you create the perfect day trip! Bratislava is not a big city but nonetheless has tons of interesting sights and districts. Bratislava makes the perfect day trip from Vienna.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to write them in the comment section below. ⇣
xx
Nina
ENJOYED THIS BLOGPOST? PIN THIS POST TO YOUR PINTEREST BOARD!
