A typical first trip here runs about $550 to $750 per person for 7 days at a mid-range style, before flights. Get your own number from the Budget Calculator.
- Bryndzové halušky, potato dumplings with sheep's bryndza cheese and bacon
- Kapustnica, sauerkraut soup with sausage, mushrooms, and plum jam
- Lokše, thin potato pancakes, popular street food
- Slovak wines from the Small Carpathians are underrated gems
- Borovička, juniper-flavored spirit, a national favorite
- Folklore festivals celebrating traditional costumes and folk music
- Jánošík legend, Slovakia's Robin Hood hero celebrated in culture
- Easter traditions: boys splash girls with water or whip them with willow twigs
- Christmas (Vianoce), very traditional with carp on Christmas Eve
Slovak is close to Czech, speakers can largely understand each other. English is common in Bratislava and tourist areas.
Germans and Austrians also understand some Slovak. Locals appreciate any attempt at Slovak phrases.
- Slovaks are friendly but reserved initially, don't be put off
- Remove shoes when entering homes
- Tipping 10% is standard in restaurants
- Slovakia's natural beauty (High Tatras) deserves proper respect
Latest for Slovakia
Updates for Slovakia will appear here as they are published. Every update cites official sources, so you can plan on it.