Bratislava is not a stop, see n’ go one-day destination, as many think so. Bratislava is a complete destination that combines beautiful attractions, activities, innovations, vivid night life and great food. Apart from the main attractions and monuments, there are 10 more things to do in Bratislava. The city offers options for artistic … (Nedbalka Gallery-National Theater), shopping in the Eurovea & Central shopping centers and alternative activities such as attending an Ice Hockey match. Of course, a walk around history is not missing, through the medieval walls, the Museum of Arms and the Tower of St. Michael. Suggested stay in the city: 3 days.

Meet more Attractions of Bratislava…

The Nedbalka Gallery became known more for its spiral view from the 4th floor and less for its exhibits. The national gallery of modern arts houses paintings and sculptures of the contemporary Slovak art, many of which excite strong feelings. Guided by a latest technology tablet you can get informed about the exhibits and learn while playing! The four-story establishment of the gallery houses four permanent exhibitions. Before you go, visit the first floor lounge area to have some coffee or tea (free with the general entrance ticket) and relax while reading about the history and exhibits of Bratislava’s gallery.

Suggested visit time: 1-1.5 hours
Open: Tuesday-Sunday 13:00-19:00. Closed: Monday.
Cost: General entrance 4€ (free coffee or tea), Students-Children-Retirees 1€, Temporary exhibition 1€.

 The know-it-all says: The exhibition includes more than 1,000 artworks!

The modern and stunning Eurovea mall is located along the bank of the Danube and is constructed mainly out of glass. Its interior is bright, clean and well-maintained allowing the visitor to shop (180 stores), have coffee or food (40 coffee bar/ restaurants) and enjoy happy moments with his or her family (five playgrounds and free wifi). The Central Shopping Center on the other hand is located outside of high tourist attraction areas, so it is mostly visited by locals. It covers a large area and houses more than 150 businesses. It is safe, clean and includes the most renowned brands of clothing and footwear, while the modern fitness and wellness center makes for its most prominent feature.

Suggested visit time: 1.5-2.5 hours (for every mall).
Open: Every day 10:00-21:00 (for both).
Cost: Free

 The know-it-all says: The Eurovea shopping center covers an area of 59,000m²!

The years do not exactly identify with its name, as it is a 45-year-old bridge, which connects the Old Town with the Petrzalka district. The SNP, as it is originally called, is the best way to get to the UFO Tower. Do not worry, you are in no danger of being hit by some vehicle. The reason? The New bridge has a special passage for pedestrians, built one level under the highway. This way, you will be able to cross its 431 meters in safety, having Danube as your only company. And as for the shaking you might feel, do not let it scare you. The bridge is totally safe.

Suggested visit time: 20-30 minutes.
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know-it-all says: It is the second bridge in the world that crosses a river and is supported only by steel ropes (without columns)!

Two important gates are our next choice for the picturesque city of Bratislava. The Laurinc Gate has been hanging in the same spot for eight centuries, since it was set to protect the old town. It is located close to the Nedbalka Gallery and it is an impressive “suspended” attraction that deserves a little of your time. The other gate is located on the south-east side of the castle and dates back to the 15th century. The Sigismund Gate, due to its sterling construction and volume (seven meters wide) was considered as the safest passage to the castle. Nowadays, it decorates the hill with its imposing presence and adds something to the trip.

Suggested visit time: 20-30 minutes.
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know-it-all says: In front of the Laurinc Gate there used to be a…trench!

If you want to have an extraordinary experience in Bratislava, then an Ice Hockey match is an ideal opportunity. The sport may not be as widespread and popular in other countries, but in Slovakia it is a way of life, as it is their national sport. The championship and European responsibilities of the local team, HC SLOVAN Bratislava, start in August and may last until late February. The rink is located one block over the Central Shopping Center and it can be accessed by bus (39, 53, 61, 63, 74, 78, 204, 205). So, if you wish to indulge in the culture of the locals, all you have to do is attend an Ice Hockey match.

Suggested visit time: 2 hours
Open: August-February
Cost: Ticket prices range from 12€ to 25€ depending on the seat.

 The know-it-all says: The stadium can accommodate up to 10,000 spectators!

The medieval walls used to be the most important defensive mechanism and protect Bratislava from invasions. Now reconstructed, they work as an outdoor museum, to remind of the significant role they played in the security of the city. Walking along the last part of the wall (200 meters long) you have the chance to get to know the history of the city through posted information and photographs. You can access the location either through the entrance of St. Martin, or via the bridge that connects the old town with the castle. Finally, it is worth mentioning that, during the summer months, exhibitions and various events are being held in the small square (inside the walls).

Suggested visit time: 30-40 minutes
Open: Tuesday-Sunday 12:00-20:00 Closed: Monday
Cost: Free

 The know-it-all says: The stone walls are up to 160cm thick!

The Primatial Palace is nowadays the Mayor’s base, and it is located in the center of the old town. The stern line of the exterior space is not aligned with the interior grandeur and aristocratic decoration. Clad in a soft pink color, the Primatial Palace in Bratislava has high-ceilinged halls with beautiful furniture, wooden floors with warm carpets, gold-plated details and lots of mirrors. The halls are decorated with huge chandeliers, portraits of Hungarian governors and paintings of the Habsburgs dynasty. But the features that steal the show are the historically valuable Hall of Mirrors and the English tapestries of the 17th century. In the inner courtyard you will find the famous fountain with the stone statue of St. George killing the dragon.

Suggested visit time: 40 minutes-1 hour
Open: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-17:00 Closed: Monday
Cost: General entrance 3€, Uni. tudents-Children-School students Free

 The know-it-all says: Every year (on St. George’s day), it is said that the statue comes alive and wanders the streets of the city!

The historical building of the National Theater adorns the city center for more than two centuries. It is built in neo-renaissance style, following the patterns of the Viennese theaters and can host up to 1,000 people. The National Theater decorates the Hviezdoslav’s square with its imposing façade, while inside it hosts important shows to date. Its acoustics and prestige are undoubtedly better than at the New Theater, which you can discover only if you watch one of the shows being performed daily. The types of shows are ballet, drama and opera and ticket costs range between 5 and 65€/person, making it an excellent choice to spend one of your evenings in Bratislava.

Suggested visit time: 2-3.5 hours
Open: Depending on the show.
Cost: 5€ to 65€ (depending on the category).

 The know-it-all says: In front of the building there is a hole, through which you can see medieval ruins!

The Museum of Arms in Bratislava is housed in the seven-story Michael’s Tower. It is a small museum, which exhibits armors, swords, weapons, shields and uniforms. It is true that the content does not excite visitors, who prefer the amazing panoramic view from the narrow balcony of the top floor. Over there, at a height of 51 meters, you have the chance to gaze at people passing by Michalska street, wonder at the countless red roofs and admire important attractions, such as the Castle, the UFO and St. Martin’s Cathedral.

Suggested visit time: 20-40 minutes
Open: Tuesday-Friday 10:00-17:00, Saturday 11:00-18:00. Closed: Monday
Cost: General entrance 4.3€, Students-Children-Retirees 2.5€, Family ticket 8.60€.

 The know-it-all says: Right next to the tower you will find the only part of the wall that has remained intact!

The Sad Janka Krala park, a space of insouciance and rest, could not possibly be missing from our suggestions. The oldest public park in central Europe is located in the Petržalka district and offers many hours of relaxation, with a view of the UFO Tower and the Danube. Many trails, dozens of families and endless greenery compose a beautiful landscape that forms the largest green area in Bratislava. Exercise, take your walk, read a book or have a romantic picnic! Combine your walk around the park with some shopping at the Aupark Shopping Centre.

Suggested visit time: 1.5-2.5 hours
Open: Always
Cost: Free

 The know-it-all says: Petržalka is the most densely-populated area of central Europe!

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