Beyond Bratislava: A Guide to the Best Day Trips
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Bratislava is a beautiful and historic destination that is often overlooked by tourists. But this charming city has so much to offer and is the perfect starting point for a variety of exciting day trips!
Whether you're interested in exploring the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding region, or you want to delve into the rich cultural and historical heritage of nearby cities, there are plenty of options to choose from.
What makes me the expert? I’ve lived in Bratislava for nearly two years as a digital nomad, always itching to explore the nearby sights. In this blog post, I will be sharing some of the BEST day trips from Bratislava, based on my own personal experiences, that you won't want to miss.
From medieval castles and picturesque villages to lush forests and rolling hills, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty and culture of Slovakia, Austria, Hungary, and the Czech Republic with these amazing day trips from Bratislava.
IN THIS GUIDE
Discover the Best Day Trips from Bratislava
Why You Should Visit Bratislava
Bratislava is a charming, affordable, and culturally rich destination that is worth a spot on any European itinerary. Besides being a great base for day trips, here are 5 reasons why you should visit Bratislava:
It's a beautiful and historic city: Bratislava is filled with stunning architecture, including a castle overlooking the city, charming old town squares, and charming streets lined with colorful houses.
It's a great value destination: Slovakia is generally a very affordable country to visit, and Bratislava is no exception. You can find great deals on accommodation, food, and activities, making it a budget-friendly destination.
It's easy to get around: Bratislava is a small city, so it's easy to explore on foot or by public transportation.
It has a thriving cultural scene: Bratislava is home to a number of museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues, making it a great destination for culture lovers.
It's a foodie paradise: Slovakia is known for its delicious cuisine, and Bratislava is a great place to try traditional dishes like halusky and fried cheese.
For more information about the capital of Slovakia, check out my Ultimate Bratislava City Guide which includes over 50 insider tips & tricks for first-time visitors.
11 Day Trips from Bratislava
If you're planning a visit to Bratislava and want to take some day trips to explore the surrounding area, you're in luck! There are many beautiful and interesting destinations within a short distance of the city. In fact, all of the destinations mentioned in this blog post are less than 2 hours away by public transportation.
Devin Castle
Devin Castle, located just 15km from Bratislava, is arguably the most popular day trip from Bratislava and a must-see destination for history buffs and castle enthusiasts alike.
This ancient castle, perched on a cliff overlooking the Danube River, has a rich history dating back to the 9th century. It’s one of the oldest and most important castles in Slovakia. It played a role in a number of important historical events, having served as a military fortification, a royal palace, and a center of cultural and political life over the centuries. The castle has been the site of a number of battles and sieges and has played a role in the histories of Slovakia, Hungary, and the Czech Republic.
Today, Devin Castle is a popular tourist attraction, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into the past. Visitors can explore the castle's ramparts, towers, and underground tunnels, and learn about its history through interactive exhibits.
Below the castle, you can find the Gate of Freedom Memorial, which is a tribute to the victims of the Velvet Revolution, which took place in 1989 and marked the end of communist rule in Czechoslovakia.
How to get there: Take bus #29 from the Most SNP (UFO Bridge) to Strbska, which is about a 5-minute walk from the castle. It leaves often and takes around 20 minutes. You need a Zone 2 ticket, which can be purchased on the Bratislava public transport app or the yellow machines at the bus stop.
Hainburg an der Donau
Hainburg an der Donau is a small town located on the border between Austria and Slovakia and has a long and interesting history of cross-border trade and cultural exchange between the two countries. It is situated on the banks of the Danube River and is known for its beautiful natural setting, rich history, and charming Old Town area.
One of the must-see attractions in Hainburg is the stunning medieval castle, which dates back to the 12th century and is now home to a museum exploring the town's history. The castle is located on a hill overlooking the town and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
It’s home to the oldest permanent bridge over the Danube River. The bridge, which was built in the 13th century, is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and is a popular spot for tourists to take photos.
Other notable sights in Hainburg include the charming Old Town area with its narrow streets and colorful houses, and the beautiful Danube Promenade, which is a popular spot for walking and picnicking.
Hainburg is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a number of hiking and cycling trails in the surrounding area. The town is also located just a short distance from the Danube-Auen National Park, which is home to a number of rare plant and animal species and is a great place to explore the region's natural beauty.
Hainburg is a charming and peaceful town that is well worth an afternoon visit. It’s also home to the Hotel Altes Kloster — a modern hotel built into a 17th-century monastery that offers spa access and very reasonable rates.
How to get there: Take bus #901 from the Most SNP (UFO Bridge) to Ungartor or Wienter Tor. It leaves every hour and takes around 20 minutes. You’ll need a special “Hainburg” ticket, which can be purchased on the Bratislava public transport app or the yellow machines at the bus stop.
Vienna
Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria and is known for its rich cultural history, stunning architecture, and vibrant arts scene. It’s located about an hour away from Bratislava, with a number of convenient transportation options, making it easy to visit as a day trip!
Some of the must-see attractions in Vienna include the stunning Schönbrunn Palace, the historic St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the beautiful Belvedere Palace. The city is also home to a number of world-class museums, including the Austrian National Library, the Sisi Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts, which house some of the finest collections of art in the world.
There are a number of world-class concert halls and opera houses in Vienna as the city was home to a number of famous composers, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Johann Strauss II. Consider attending one of the Mozart concerts at the Golden Hall.
It’s worth mentioning the Vienna Pass, which includes admission to over 70 attractions (including skip-the-line privileges) and unlimited travel on the hop-on-hop-off bus. This offers up great value if you’re wanting to visit more than 3 attractions, like the palaces or giant ferris wheel.
Vienna is also home to a number of world-class eateries offering up delicious Austrian dishes like Wiener Schnitzel and Sachertorte. Be sure to visit Figlmuller, which is arguably the best place for schnitzel in Vienna — I’ve been here a handful of times and can attest to the fact that the portions are both gigantic and delicious.
The city is known for its coffee culture. The city is home to a number of famous coffee houses, which have played an important role in the city's cultural life for centuries. In fact, Vienna has the highest number of coffee houses per capita of any city in the world! I have yet to find one that offers a balance between affordability and ambiance, so if you have any recommendations, please leave them in the comment section.
Vienna is a vibrant and exciting destination that is well worth a visit as a day trip from Bratislava. In the past, I’ve stayed at the 25hours Hotel MuseumsQuartier, which is a modern circus-inspired hotel with a rooftop bar. It’s a unique concept in the best location.
How to get there: Take the train from the main railway station (Hlavna Stanica) to Hauptbahnhof. It leaves every hour and takes around an hour. I prefer this option as the prices are fixed (unlike the bus) and if you book a roundtrip ticket, you get a discount. When you’re going through the checkout process on the Slovak Rail website, change the ticket type to “Wien Ticket” and the page before payment.
Stupava
Stupava is a small town located in western Slovakia, about 20km from Bratislava. It is known for its beautiful natural setting, with a number of parks and green spaces in the surrounding area.
One of the best things to do in Stupava is to visit the ruins of the Pajstún Castle, which dates back to the 14th century. The castle can be found in the nearby woods and make for an interesting hike from town. From the top, you will be greeted with an impressive view of the region — on a clear day in the summer, you can see the Austrian Alps!
Other notable sights in Stupava include the Stefana Church and the Palffy Manor, which is currently used as a retirement home. The manor backs onto a beautiful park, where you can find walking paths and a small pond. At the end of the park, you can find quite possibly the best restaurant in Stupava, the Bistro u Rybičky (Fish Bistro), which is run by the Rybárstvo Stupava, a fish farm with roots dating back to the 17th century.
Whether you’re craving fresh fish or want to explore some castle ruins, Stupava makes for an easy day trip from Bratislava and is perfect for those who want to explore more of Slovakia.
How to get there: Take bus #249 or #250 from the main bus station (Autobusova Stanica) and get off at Stupava Centrum. For the castle, take bus #219, which will drop off just a few steps away from the trailhead. Buses leave often and take about 20 minutes. You’ll need to buy a Zone 4 ticket, which can be purchased on the Bratislava public transport app or at the main bus station.
Brno
Brno, the second largest city in the Czech Republic, is just a short trip from Bratislava and makes for a great day trip. Located in the heart of Europe, Brno is known for its rich cultural history, stunning architecture, and delicious food.
One of the best things to do in Brno is to visit the medieval Spilberk Castle, which sits atop a hill overlooking the city and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The castle is now home to a museum that explores the city's history, as well as a number of cultural events and exhibitions.
Brno is home to the largest ossuary in Europe. The ossuary, which is located beneath the Church of St. James, contains the remains of more than 50,000 people and is fascinating, yet a somewhat eerie place to visit. Other notable sights in Brno include the Baroque-style St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, the Museum of Romani Culture, and the beautiful Capuchin Monastery.
The city is also the birthplace of Gregor Mendel, the father of modern genetics. Mendel is best known for his pioneering work on the laws of inheritance, which laid the foundation for modern genetics. His work has had a major impact on the fields of biology and agriculture.
Brno is a great destination for foodies, with a number of excellent restaurants serving traditional Czech dishes like goulash and roast pork with dumplings. You can also find a number of cozy cafes to relax and enjoy a drink or snack.
Overall, Brno is a charming and vibrant city that is well worth a visit. If you’re only visiting for a few hours, consider taking a walking tour with a local guide, You can learn the fascinating history of the city and catch all of the main highlights.
You may want to stay overnight, as there are a number of historic hotels in Brno. Some offer very unique amenities, like the 10-Z Bunker, which as the name would suggest, is a hotel inside of an old military bunker from the communist era. All stays include breakfast and a private tour of the bunker.
How to get there: Take a Flixbus from the main bus station (Autobusova Stanica) to Brno. The bus leaves every 2 hours and takes around 1 hour 45 minutes each way. You can book your ticket on the Flixbus website or at the station directly.
Svaty Jur
Svaty Jur is a small town in western Slovakia, just 15 minutes from Bratislava, in the Little Carpathians region, which is known for its beautiful natural setting and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This region is home to a number of hiking and cycling trails, as well as a number of rare plant and animal species.
The town is best known for its wine production and is located on the “wine route” of Slovakia. Svaty Jur is home to the oldest grapevine in Slovakia. The grapevine, located in the courtyard Renesancný Vinohradnícky Dom, is over 400 years old. You can come here to soak up the ambiance, and a glass or two of homemade wine.
One of the must-see attractions in Svaty Jur is the beautiful Church of St. George, which dates back to the 13th century and is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It’s located just a few steps away from the above-mentioned winery.
Other notable sights in Svaty Jur include the Palffy Manor, where you can enjoy fine dining in the Habsburg Salon, and the ruins of the White Stone Castle (Hrad Biely Kamen), which you can find tucked away in the woods, about a 20-minute walk from the church.
The castle was built in the 13th century and has a long and fascinating history. It has served as a royal palace, a military fortification, and a center of cultural and political life over the centuries. The castle has also been the site of a number of battles and sieges and has played a role in the history of Slovakia.
Whether you fancy trying some Slovakian wine or hunting for castle ruins in the forest, Svaty Jur has something for everyone and is one of the best day trips from Bratislava. You can also take part in this organic wine-tasting experience with a local guide, who will take you to five different wineries, where you can sample drinks and traditional snacks.
How to get there: Take the S50 commuter train from the main railway station (Hlavna Stanica) to Svaty Jur. It leaves every hour and takes around 15 minutes. You need a Zone 4 ticket, which can be purchased on the Bratislava public transport app, at the railway station, or on the Slovak rail website.
Pezinok
Pezinok is a small town in western Slovakia, about 20 minutes from Bratislava. Just like Svaty Jur, it’s in the Little Carpathians Region and on the Slovakian Wine Route!
In addition to a number of family wineries (many of which produce a special sparkling wine using the same methods as the Champagne region of France), you can visit the Small Carpathians Museum, where you can learn about the history of the region and taste wines in complete darkness to heighten your senses.
Other must-see attractions in Pezinok are the beautiful Trinity Church, which dates back to the 13th century (a stunning example of Baroque architecture), and the Pezinok Castle, where you can spend the night in the Palace Art Hotel. Be sure to visit the Castle Gardens, where you can find free-roaming peacocks!
I have yet to eat a meal in Pezinok (if you have any recommendations, please let me know) but I can recommend a great cafe, Mlsna Emma, which doubles as a chocolate shop! In the summer, they have a great patio on the main street of town.
You can easily combine Svaty Jur and Pezinok as a day trip from Bratislava, as they are both easy to reach via the local commuter train.
How to get there: Take the S50 commuter train from the main railway station (Hlavna Stanica) to Pezinok. It leaves every hour and takes around 20 minutes. You need a Zone 5 ticket, which can be purchased on the Bratislava public transport app, at the railway station, or on the Slovak rail website.
Trnava
Trnava is a city located in western Slovakia, about 50km from Bratislava. Known as the "Little Rome" of Slovakia, Trnava is home to a number of beautiful churches and monasteries, as well as a charming old town with narrow streets, colorful houses, and a number of excellent restaurants and cafes. It makes for the perfect half-day trip from Bratislava.
One of the most notable attractions in Trnava is the stunning St. Nicholas Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that dominates the city's skyline. The cathedral is home to a number of important works of art, including a painting by famous Slovakian painter Peter Paul Rubens.
Trnava is also home to the largest medieval town square in Slovakia. The square is surrounded by a number of beautiful buildings from the 13th to 18th centuries.
Other must-see sights in Trnava include the Baroque-style Town Hall (you can climb up the tower for a panoramic view of the city), the Trnava City Museum, and the Trnava University, which is the oldest university in Slovakia — founded in 1635!
Beyond cultural attractions, the city is home to a few notable restaurants and cafes. Stop by Ina Halusky where you can try halusky, arguably Slovakia’s most traditional dish, and create your own spin on it. For an afternoon coffee, check out the Synagogue Café, which is housed in an old synagogue and has a jaw-dropping interior.
Consider turning your day trip into an overnight getaway by booking a night at the Penzion Elements — the most unique hotel in Trnava. It’s a modern guesthouse built right beside the old fortification walls of the city, which lead you into the historical old town.
How to get there: Take the S50 commuter train from the main railway station (Hlavna Stanica) to Trnava. It leaves every hour and takes around 45 minutes. You need a Zone 9 ticket, which can be purchased on the Bratislava public transport app, at the railway station, or on the Slovak rail website.
Piestany
Piestany is a city located in western Slovakia, known for its beautiful parks, thermal baths, and cultural offerings. As the largest spa town in Slovakia, it is a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
One of the must-see attractions in Piestany is the picturesque Spa Island, home to several thermal baths and wellness centers, often incorporated into hotels, including Slovakia’s first 5-star hotel, the Esana Thermal Palace. This Art-Nouveau beauty opened in 1912 and is home to over 60 treatments (specializing in musculoskeletal problems) and a historic mud pool. It’s worth the splurge.
Even if you’re not staying at a hotel, be sure to visit the island, as it’s home to the Piestany Promenade, which is the longest spa promenade in Europe! The promenade runs along the river bank and is a popular spot for walking — it offers up some stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Be sure to drink some of the sulphuric healing waters from the public fountains.
Set aside some time to meander through the charming Old Town streets, admiring the colorful houses. An interesting fact is that Piestany is the birthplace of the famous writer Vaclav Havel, who served as the first president of the Czech Republic after the Velvet Revolution. His childhood home is now a museum dedicated to his life and work.
You’ll find a number of restaurants and cafes scattered through Piestany. I highly recommend trying Organila Food & Drink, which serves up delicious vegan eats and cocktails with a gorgeous view of the river.
Piestany is a charming and relaxing destination that is well worth a visit as a day trip from Bratislava. If you’re driving, consider booking a night at the Chateau Krakovany just outside of town, which is a winery hotel housed inside of an old castle from 1736 — the Gothic interiors are really something to see!
How to get there: Take the train from the main railway station (Hlavna Stanica) to Piestany. There are trains leaving every hour and it takes around 55 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at the railway station, or on the Slovak rail website.
Rusovce
Rusovce is actually a borough of Bratisalva, located south of the city, near the border with Hungary. It’s known for its historical sights and beautiful natural setting, with a number of parks and green spaces in the surrounding area.
The top attraction in Rusovce is the Ancient Gerulata, a UNESCO-protected archaeological site of the remains of a Roman military camp, which was built in the 2nd century AD. It is one of the best-preserved Roman military camps in Europe and is an important example of Roman military architecture. The site includes a number of well-preserved buildings and structures, including a military hospital, a bathhouse, and a number of barracks.
Another one of the best things to do in Rusovce is to visit the beautiful Rusovce Manor, which dates back to the 18th century and is now home to a museum exploring the village's history. The manor is surrounded by a stunning park and garden, which is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the area.
Rusovce is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as it backs into a large nature preserve along the Danube, where you can find trails, observation decks, and rare species of birds.
Be sure to grab a coffee at Sankt Vitus Kaffee, which is housed inside of an old church that was abandoned after World War II. It’s a very unique spot, with delicious coffee and cakes.
Although technically a part of Bratislava, Rusovce is rarely visited by tourists and is definitely worth at least a half-day trip!
How to get there: Take bus #91 from Most SNP (UFO Bridge) to Kastiel Rusovce (right in front of the coffee shop). The bus leaves every 20 minutes and it takes around 20 minutes. You need a Zone 2 ticket, which can be purchased on the Bratislava public transport app or the yellow machines at the bus stop.
Gyor
Gyor is a city located in northwest Hungary, near the border with Austria and Slovakia. I recently took a day trip to Gyor with my dad while he was visiting from Canada and highly recommend it! The city is inexpensive and full of charming old buildings and great restaurants. Click here to read my guide: One Day in Gyor.
One of the must-see attractions in Gyor is the stunning medieval castle grounds, which sit atop a hill overlooking the city and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The castle is now home to a museum that explores the city's history, as well as a number of cultural events and exhibitions.
Other notable sights in Gyor include the beautiful Basilica, the charming Old Town area with its narrow streets and colorful houses, and the synagogue - which is the oldest synagogue in Hungary! Built in the 18th century, the Gyor Synagogue is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture and is now home to a museum that explores the city's Jewish history.
Gyor is the birthplace of the famous composer Franz Liszt and is home to a number of museums and cultural institutions dedicated to his life and work, including the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music, which is one of the most prestigious music schools in Hungary.
You can also find a number of delicious restaurants serving Hungarian dishes, like goulash and strudel. My tip? Visit Szalai Vendéglo for lunch — it’s a traditional-style restaurant serving local dishes for a fair price. And don’t forget to stop at one of the many strudel bakeries to bring a snack back to Bratislava with you!
Extend your stay by booking a night at the Hotel Klastrom, which is housed in a former monastery from 1714 and has an on-site Gothic library.
How to get there: Take a Flixbus from the main bus station (Autobusova Stanica) to Gyor. The bus leaves several times per day and takes around 75 minutes. You can book your ticket on the Flixbus website or at the station directly.
Resources to Plan Your Trip
In conclusion, there are many exciting day trips to take from Bratislava. From exploring the beautiful castles and vineyards of Slovakia's Small Carpathian Mountains to discovering the history and culture of Vienna and Gyor, there is something for every type of traveler.
To plan your trip, be sure to use the following resources:
Visit the official tourism websites for the city you’re planning to visit to find information on attractions, events, and transportation options.
Browse online tour companies like getyourguide.com to find travel experiences and day trips from Bratislava, or consider hiring a private guide for a more personalized experience.
Check out social media to get recommendations and insider tips from other travelers. Search your destination by location or hashtags.
Use hotel booking tools like booking.com to find accommodation in the cities you'll be visiting. You can easily find options in your budget — most come with free cancellation.
With careful planning and a sense of adventure, you can make the most of your day trip from Bratislava and create unforgettable memories.
If you have any tips or questions about day trips from Bratislava, please leave a comment below.
Thanks for reading. Happy travels!
