Bratislava Airport is located just 10 minutes outside of the city of Bratislava in Slovakia. The capital city is a relaxed place to visit and does not have the metropolitan feel of other major European capitals. Make sure you pre-book your rental vehicle so you can make the most of your time here.
Sightseeing in Bratislava
Bratislava itself is bisected by the prominent Danube River, which contributes to the warm atmosphere in this historic city. The river also adds a diversity to the activities on offer, as there are many river cruises available. You can take a relaxing river barge to view the city at a calming pace or take the speedy hydrofoil all the way to nearby Vienna.
The river also provides the perfect backdrop for many cafés and restaurants in the city. These are the perfect place to sit back with a drink and a light lunch while you watch the world float by.
A popular tourist attraction in the city is Bratislava Castle. The castle sits on the top of a hill in the centre of the city, overlooking the old town. It is an iconic image in Bratislava’s skyline and a must-see whilst you are in the city. The castle has been rebuilt numerous times over its history. You get the best views over the city and the Danube from here and take in the fortifications of this ancient building.
After soaking up the friendly and welcoming atmosphere in the city you should take some time to visit one of the numerous art galleries on offer. Bratislava City Gallery at the Mirbach Palace and Pallfy Palace is one of the most popular galleries in the city. It has a range of exhibitions, including traditional Slovakian pieces and contemporary art, such as the Passage installation, so there should be something of interest to all visitors.
You can also visit some of the more obscure museums in the city, such as the Museum of Clocks and the Museum of Pharmacy. Both are very interesting and a great place to spend half a day.
Day Trips From Bratislava
Bratislava is a perfect place to base yourself whilst exploring the surrounding area. It is on the international borders with both Austria and Hungary so there are a huge variety of excursions that you can choose from. Within driving distance you can reach the major European cities of Vienna, Budapest and Prague where you can experience the big city atmosphere.
However, closer to Bratislava there are some fantastic attractions that will keep you busy for your time here. Just a 15 minute drive northwest of the city centre is the dramatic Devin Castle. The castle is officially in ruins, but this does not do justice to the amount of existing structures inside the castle.
There is a maze of stairways, courtyards and gardens that are still impressive today, and the outer walls of the castle still dominate the landscape. The castle is situated on a strategic point of the Danube and the views it provides are spectacular. There are other beautiful castles in the region, such as Pajstun Castle and Cerveny Kamen, which also make for fantastic visits.
Around 30 minutes’ drive away from the city centre is the small town of Senec. The town is a popular destination and it is a great day trip. You can take in the sites of the town and wander round the streets before taking a seat in the central square to have a refreshing drink. The town is situated on the shores of two lakes and they provide some scenic views. You can also visit the most popular attraction in town, the Aquapark, which is a fantastic family day trip.
The region to the northeast of Bratislava is perfect for those of you who like the outdoors. The Small Carpathian Mountains are only a short drive away and it has some brilliant walking routes. Additionally, there are lots of charming alpine villages, which are a great place to grab some food after a long hike.
