Top 12 Things To Do And See In Bratislava

The cobblestone streets and pretty pastel houses of Bratislava’s Old Town exude old-world charm and invite visitors to linger a bit longer, enjoying the tiny details of the historic buildings and exploring the delicious smells wafting from the many restaurants and bars. There are many things to do and see in Bratislava, but here are the very best 12 to introduce you to the sights, history, buildings, and museums of Slovakia’s capital city.

Visit in September to see the Old Town Illuminated for the Festival of Light

September is a great month to visit, because you’ll beat the huge crowds during July and August. Temperatures are more moderate and you can enjoy an evening stroll to see the historical buildings of the Old Town lit up for the Festival of Light. A green laser beam reflects from the UFO Tower to the St. Michael’s Gate to the Cumil statue and back, drawing a path for visitors to follow through the Old Town. In 2017, the festival dates are September 21-23.

The green laser beam from the UFO Tower is a highlight of September’s Festival of Lights!

Partake in cafe culture in the Old Town

In the early 20th century, Bratislava was considered a suburb of nearby Vienna, so the city often followed Vienna’s lead. Atmospheric coffee houses were no exception. At the turn of the 20th century, several stylish cafes lined the main square and the surrounding streets in the Old Town. Bratislava’s cafe culture suffered a huge setback under the communist regime – when the only kind of coffee available was described as a strong and dark Turkish-style brew. But today cafes are back with flair, you can once again sit, sip, and see and be seen in a Bratislava’s Old Town. Some great coffees can be found at Cafe Mondeiu, Urban House, Fach, and Stur Cafe.

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1. Step back in time to the World War period at Museum B-S 4

Museum

Also known as the Czechoslovak Fortification Museum, this museum is housed in an underground bunker just outside of the city. In addition to seeing how a bunker would have been set up for soldiers during the Second World War, you can also view weapons used during the past century. From November to March the bunker is closed, but from April to October, you shouldn’t miss experiencing this interesting piece of history.

Go shopping for traditional Slovak products

In the Old Town, you’ll find a tricky combination of tourist trap shops and shops which sell high-quality locally made products. If you’re looking for a unique Slovak souvenir to take home for yourself or a friend, the friendly staff at Zeppelin Cafe & Souvenirs are happy to explain all of the products in their store. First, enjoy a freshly baked slice of cake with coffee, then browse their selection of embroidery, folk clothing, jewelry, and home decor, all made nearby. Honey is also a popular souvenir from Slovakia and you can find an amazing selection of honey products at Ceramel; the Honey Shop. They have flavored honeys (strawberry is great), honey wine (called medovina), and honey-based bath and body products.

Zeppelin Cafe & Souvenirs, Sedlárska 364/10, 851 01 Staré Mesto, Slovakia

Ceramel; the Honey Shop, Biela 418/4, 811 01 Bratislava, Slovakia

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2. Attend an Opera at the Old Building of the Slovak National Theatre

Building, Theatre, Theater, Historical Landmark

The historic Old Building of the Slovak National Theatre

Put on your best clothes to attend an evening opera at the Old Building of the Slovak National Theatre, conveniently located in the center of the Old Town. The building exudes old-fashioned charm in a Neo-Renaissance building which dates to 1886. There are many different operas held here throughout the year, so check the schedule to see what’s on and buy your ticket in advance for the best seats!