slovakia safe for travel

Update April 12, 2024

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Slovakia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, slovakia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Slovakia.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Slovakia.

If you decide to travel to Slovakia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Slovakia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Is Slovakia Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Slovakia : Safety by City

Slovakia or sometimes called the Slovak Republic is a country located in Central Europe, squeezed in between Austria to the west, the Czech Republic to the northwest, Hungary to the south, Poland to the north, and Ukraine to the east.

More than two decades after splitting up of Czechoslovakia, Slovakia grew into an independent nation with a stable country and an abundance of things to see and do.

Though its capital city, Bratislava, is the one getting all the attention because of its unique nightlife, there is much to enjoy in Slovakia’s gingerbread-style villages, which serve as proof of Slovakia’s loyalty to its folk traditions.

Lovers of the outdoors are the ones most attracted to Slovakia.

The High Tatras are made for hiking or winter sports, and castles look even more magical when covered in heavy snow.

Then there are quaint churches in the east of the country, around a friendly city named Košice.

Don’t forget cellar restaurants to sip on some wine and round up your perfect trip in this country at the very heart of Europe.

• Warnings & Dangers in Slovakia

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Overall, Slovakia is very safe to travel to. Its crime rates are very low, and pickpockets are the biggest concern you'll have to deal with while on a holiday there. Have your wits with you and be vigilant at all times.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Road safety is a concern for some tourists traveling to Slovakia, since Slovakia has the eighth-most dangerous roads in Europe, according to the European road safety chart. Be careful when driving, especially after dark. Be wary of taxi drivers trying to overcharge for their services with cheap tricks. Don't fall for them and insist on the meter.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpockets are common, but not as much as in other European countries. You should be careful when it comes to your valuables, keep them safe in your accommodation or at least don't carry them all in one place. Be especially cautious in Bratislava's Old Town, the Christmas markets in December, and on public buses, trams, or trains.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

There are no severe threats of natural disasters in Slovakia, apart from occasional flooding.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

When it comes to mugging, it is not common, though you should avoid empty, deserted or poorly lit streets, and in such an occasion, hand over your possessions immediately and never resist

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Although there haven't been any terrorist attacks in Slovakia's recent history, they shouldn't be ruled out, so be aware of your surroundings at all times.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

As in any tourist destination, there is a heightened risk of getting scammed. Check every change twice, negotiate everything beforehand and never give your money before you receive the service you're paying for. In taxis, always insist on the meter and only pay what the meter shows.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Slovakia is, in general, very safe for women traveling solo. Apart from a few precaution rules you should apply in order to minimize your chances of something going wrong, if you avoid poorly lit and deserted streets and follow your common sense, your trip should go smoothly.

• So... How Safe Is Slovakia Really?

Slovakia is a safe country to visit.

Crime rates are low, even by European standards and violent crime is almost non-existent.

Pickpockets are definitely a problem, though much less so than in other European countries and top destinations.

Still, bear in mind that they tend to roam around the city and tourist-frequented areas.

Be careful with your valuables and keep them in a safe place.

The most usual places where they operate are crowded train stations, airports and shopping areas.

There will also be scammers waiting to trick you, so be wary of taxi drivers adding an imaginary surcharge to the metered value, or not running the meter at all and then delivering and astronomical fee at the end.

Always insist on the meter before entering the vehicle.

Also common are car break-ins and you can expect thieves to smash your windows whether or not valuables are in plain sight.

This is why it is always better to keep your valuables at your accommodation or safely by your side.

Always bear in mind that going out at night has its own dangers.

There have been reports of people getting spiked drinks from locals and then waking up a few hours later with empty pockets.

Don’t be paranoid, but try to avoid accepting drinks from strange people or simply insist on going with them to the bar and watching the drinks being made.

• How Does Slovakia Compare?
• Useful Information

For up to 90 days of stay, visas are not required for US citizens, Australians, Canadians or UK citizens. Make sure your passport is valid for at least three months longer than the expected validity of the visa. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Euro is the official currency in Slovakia and most of Europe. ATMs are available in most tourist destinations, and credit cards accepted in major hotels - for other establishments it is best to ask upfront.

Slovakia has the typical European continental influenced climate characterized by warm, dry summers and somewhat cold winters. Daytime temperatures during summer are usually somewhere around 20-25°C, but sometimes they rise up to 30°C or more.

M. R. Štefánik Airport also referred to as Bratislava Airport is the busiest international airport in Slovakia. It is located about 9 km northeast of Bratislava city center.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Slovakia, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Slovakia Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Slovakia - Safety by City

Explore slovakia.

• 12 Most Beautiful Castles in Slovakia
• Where to Next?

6 Reviews on Slovakia

I went to slovakia and it was much warmer than these stats show. Also be prepared for people to stare if your person of color. Im black and a friend that i met there told me that someone of color isnt something usual in their country. So they dont judge you bc of your color, theyre just interested. Also they really are a bit racist towards brown people, but with brown people in slovakia its reasonable. For exmple this homeless brown lady stole my money. Its was only 50 cents so i let it go but it for sure upset me. There was also this kid (he was brown too) and he just harrased us (he was like 10). So yeah, 4/5 .

As stated before by other user – Stated Temperatures in summer months are far from the truth as they are average. In summer you can expect temperatures around 30-35 and sometimes it can get close to 40. Slovakia is not racist against people of color from other countries but they are definitely racist to one of their own minority.

If you visiting capital city, I would definitely recommend old town or restaurant in their UFO restaurant on Novy Most (New Bridge). Hight Tatras are beautiful no matter what time a year you visiting. I would also recommend Tomasovsky Vyhlad (Tomasovsky View) if you are on East side of Slovakia.

Will visit again in future

I spent 11 years in Sk living in BA..Was attacked twice by Skinhead types..both times in BA…Was all over the country many many times..and met wonderful people…some are still my best friends today albeit from afar..Try Fried cheese or chicken pr pork fried…and Briza Cheese..dishes..And a large population of beautiful girls and women live in SK..I actually married one and have been for 30 years..

Slovakia is great

I was born in Slovakia and lived here my entire life. I have a wife and 2 kids and we all live in my hometown of Brezno. very safe to live here, quiet and happy.

The best advice I can give for anyone coming to Slovakia is to pack warm clothes, in January it can be as cold as -3 celsius.

You have one thing wrong Czechia has much more pickpockets than Slovakia. And scammers as Czechia has much more tourists. But I think you’ll get beaten up more easily in Slovakia than in Czechia but the percentage is still low.

Great little gem of a country

Love Slovakia. I’m Canadian, but my parents are immigrants from Slovakia so our whole extended fam lives there and we would visit frequently. I now bring my Canadian husband and children there. Cities are safe (relatively), just be aware of pick pockets and distractions created by teams of pick pockets (example: woman trips and pretends to twist ankle. Her child cries and is in distress. While you are helping her and comforting child, your valuables get snatched). They will target tourists specifically for this bc locals are wise to it. But other than that there is nothing I would be afraid of. I mean…don’t go walking around in sketchy areas late at night, but the same applies for anywhere right? Great night life, shopping, entertainment, but also nature/hiking etc. Summers can get blistering dry hot – I’m talking up to 40, so get ready to feel the heat. The racism that people are mentioning towards brown people are not particularly indicating all brown people as a rule. They’re biased against the Roma people, or “Cigani – Gypsies” as they call them. I’m not condoning this, just trying to explain the POV. Many locals are infuriated at the tax payer money that gets funneled into programs and welfare for those who are a marginalized minority. But those resources often times get squandered/misused & the majority of groups pick pocketing are still Roma. So it’s just a vicious cycle.

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Article Contents

• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Slovakia Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Slovakia is a Central European country known for its dramatic mountainous landscapes, medieval history, and stunning architecture. As a land-locked country, it’s been part of numerous empires and governments throughout its history, all of which have left their own unique influence on the region.

I’ve visited Slovakia several times over the years and I’m always amazed at how much is packed into such a small country (as well as how few people visit beyond the capital). While Bratislava gets plenty of attention, the country as a whole sees a fraction of the crowds compared to its neighbors.

But their loss is your gain!

Slovakia is filled with beautiful rivers, lakes, national parks, tiny towns, and castle ruins. And compared to its neighbors it’s also quite affordable. It’s the perfect place to hike, road trip, and escape Europe’s summer crowds — all while on a budget!

This travel guide to Slovakia can help you save money, plan your visit, and make the most of your trip to this underrated gem!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Slovakia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Slovakia

1. Explore Bratislava

Bratislava is Slovakia’s capital and largest city. Bordering both Austria and Hungary, its position on the banks of the Danube make it an obvious point of entry for most travelers. Don’t miss the city’s Old Town and Bratislava Castle. There’s also an eclectic music scene here.

2. Visit Košice

Košice is the second-largest city in Slovakia, dating back to the 13th century. The city center encompasses the historic part of town and has the largest number of historical monuments in the country. Be sure to visit the 13th-century St. Elisabeth Cathedral.

3. See Banská Štiavnica

This well-preserved UNESCO medieval town sits in a valley formed after an ancient volcano collapsed. Be sure to visit the open-air mining museum, where you can walk more than a kilometer underground (10 EUR, an additional 15 EUR for a tour in English).

4. Hike Slovak Paradise National Park

Slovak Paradise National Park boasts over 100 kilometers (62-miles) of hiking trails, passing through canyons, meadows, and more waterfalls than you can count. The hiking isn’t difficult, but you must navigate narrow passages, climb steep ladders, and use chains above ravines.

5. Take a wine tour

Not far from Bratislava lies Modra, which is the place to go for wine tours and tastings. Look out for the annual Modra Wine Cellars Day, when many of the wine cellars in the area organize a day-long tasting for visitors. Expect to pay at least 40 EUR for a tour.

Other Things to See and Do in Slovakia

1. visit the slovak karst caves.

There are almost 2,500 caves in Slovakia — and only 400 of them have been explored. In the southern Slovak Karst region, there are plenty of options but if you want a truly unique experience, visit a section of Domica Cave where you can take an underground boat ride on the River Styx (trip to Hades not included). Admission including the boat ride is 9 EUR. Other caves worth checking out are Dobšinská Ice Cave, Harmanecka, and Gombasecka.

2. Go rock climbing

Head to the mountains around Terchová in the north or Slovenský Raj in the east for some world-class rock climbing. You’ll find beautiful gorges that you can climb for free thanks to the ropes and ladders already in place. If you’re new to rock climbing and would rather do a guided trip, expect to pay around 80 EUR per person.

3. Run the oldest marathon in Europe

The Košice Peace Marathon is the oldest marathon in Europe (and the second oldest marathon in the world). Held in Košice each year since 1924, the city is completely overtaken by the event as thousands come to take part, watch, and celebrate. The marathon happens on the first Sunday in October. If you want to run the race yourself, registration is 37 EUR. Be sure to book your accommodation far in advance as the entire city fills up.

4. Relax in a thermal cave bath

For a uniquely Slovakian experience, visit the Parenica cave bath at the Sklené Teplice spa. Located in Central Slovakia, these natural hot springs have been in use for centuries. The water is a constant 42°C (107°F) and is perfect for relaxing (especially if you’re visiting in the winter). Bath visits last 20 minutes and are included in your stay at the spa, which costs around 70 EUR per night.

5. Tour the Nedbalka Gallery

The Nedbalka Gallery in Bratislava has a spectacular award-winning design that resembles the Guggenheim Museum in New York City and is a stark contrast to the more traditional medieval buildings that make up the city’s Old Town. The gallery, which was heavily remodeled in 2012, spans five floors and is home to over 1,000 works depicting Slovak culture. Admission is 5 EUR and includes a coffee or tea at the gallery’s café.

6. Hike the smallest alpine mountain range in Europe

The most famous national park in Slovakia, High Tatras is located in the north of the country along the border with Poland . Stretching 53 kilometers (33 miles), it’s the smallest alpine mountain range in Europe. If you want to reach the peak of the High Tatras, Gerlachovsky Stit, you need to hire a mountain guide as the ascent is extremely challenging and not to be attempted alone. If you don’t want to hike (or want an easier option), Lomnicky Stit is slightly lower and far more accessible thanks to the cable car to the top. During the winter, there are several ski resorts here. Round-trip cable car tickets are expensive at 59 EUR, however, you can hike up part way and then take the cable car for half price.

7. Explore an ice cave

One of the most popular caves in the country is Dobšinská, an ice cave located near Dobšiná in Central Slovakia. Discovered in 1870, the caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first caves in Europe to be lit by electricity. The cave spans over 1,500 acres and is full of all kinds of stunning natural ice formations. Admission is 9 EUR for a 30-minute visit.

8. Visit the Old Market Hall (Stará tržnica)

Each Saturday between 9am-3pm the Old Market Hall in Bratislava hosts its weekly market where you can buy food and goods from regional farmers and producers. There’s also a children’s theater performance and book fair every Saturday. The current building dates to 1910, however, there were medieval fortifications here dating back to the 16th century. In addition to foods and produce, the market also hosts cultural events, music performances, two cafes, a brewery, and a cooking school. The Old Market Hall also hosts an annual beer festival (called Salón Piva) where you can sample the locally produced beer.

9. Go hiking

Slovakia is one of the best countries in Europe for hiking. There are hundreds of trails, including dozens of long-distance routes as well as easy, moderate, and challenging day hikes. Some hikes to check out are Rysy Mountain, near the border of Poland (20km, 10 hours); Kriván, considered Slovakia’s most beautiful mountain (6km, 4 hours); and Popradske Pleso, a picturesque alpine hike (4km, 2 hours). If you’re going hiking in the mountains, be sure to check the weather in advance as conditions can change rapidly. Always make sure you have the proper gear and plenty of water too.

10. Hit the slopes

The Tatra mountain range rivals the Alps when it comes to beauty. However, when it comes to skiing, there are fewer skiers and cheaper prices in Slovakia (lift tickets are upwards of 75% cheaper than in neighboring Austria). Some ski resorts to visit are Jasná Nízke Tatry (Liptovský Mikuláš), Relax Center Plejsy (Krompachy), Tale (Bystra), and Malinô Brdo (Ružomberok). Expect to pay around 49 EUR for a lift pass, however, you can find passes for as little as 8-16 EUR in places like Moštenica, Zliechov, and Skorušina.

Slovakia Travel Costs

Outside of Bratislava, budget hotel rooms start around 25-40 EUR per night. In Bratislava, expect to pay closer to double that.

Airbnb is a budget-friendly option available around the country with private rooms starting at 25 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 50 EUR per night.

For anyone traveling with a tent, camping is available around the country. Wild camping is legal but be sure to double-check as it is illegal in certain protected areas (no camping in the High Tatras or national parks, for example). You’re also not allowed to camp in forested areas and should use caution when lighting fires as this is generally prohibited. Official campgrounds are scattered around the country with basic plots for two without electricity costing 14-16 EUR per night.

Food – Slovakian cuisine is based on three main staples: pork, cabbage, and potatoes (much like many of its neighbors). Polish and Hungarian influences abound, so expect lots of soups, sauerkraut, breaded meats, and dumplings. Lunch is the main meal of the day, with soup being the most common main course. A popular local delicacy is jaternica , a blood sausage made with pig’s blood and buckwheat. Halušky (soft ptato dumplings) and schnitzel are two other popular traditional choices.

For an inexpensive meal of traditional cuisine, expect to pay around 7-12 EUR. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 5-7 EUR for a combo meal. Thai and Indian food can be found in a couple of the larger cities in the country, costing 8-13 EUR for a main dish.

If you want to splash out, a three-course meal of traditional cuisine costs around 20 EUR, including a drink.

Expect to pay between 1.50-2.50 EUR for a beer and about the same for a latte or cappuccino (if you buy beer at the grocery store it’s just 1-1.50 EUR). A glass of wine generally costs around 2.50-4 EUR.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 20-35 EUR for basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat. A medium-sized bag of pasta is less than 1 EUR, fresh buns (like croissants) are around .50 EUR while a loaf of bread is around 2 EUR. Cereal is around 1.50 EUR while a large bag of potato chips is 1.50-2 EUR.

If you’re vegan or vegetarian, Bratislava has tons of options. Beyond the large supermarkets (which have things like soy meat and alternative kinds of milk), there are a handful of vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants around the city, including Šmak (vegan sushi), Vegan Kiosk (vegan burgers and wraps), and La Donuteria (vegan and non-vegan donuts).

Other suggested places to eat in Bratislava include U Sedliaka (traditional Slovakian food), Mezcalli (Mexican food), and Next Apache (a small cafe that sells used books).

Backpacking Slovakia Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking Slovakia, my suggested budget is 45 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, doing free activities like walking tours and hiking, limiting your drinking, visiting some cheap attractions like museums or galleries, and using public transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of 105 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb apartment, eat out for most of your meals at budget-friendly restaurants serving traditional cuisine, go out for some drinks, take some guided tours, visit more paid attractions like the caves, and take the occasional taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 200 EUR, you can stay in a hotel, eat out at any restaurant you want, rent a car, drink as much as you want, and see as many castles and museums as you can handle! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Slovakia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Slovakia is one of the cheaper Central European countries and it’s easy here to travel on a budget. That said, if you’re looking for ways to trim your expenses, here are my favorite ways to save money in the country:

• Take a free walking tour – Bratislava offers a handful of free walking tours which are a great way to get familiar with the city and its culture on a budget. Be Free Tours is the most popular tour company. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Ride Flixbus – Flixbus is a budget-friendly way to get around the country (as well as the region). They have Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and decent enough seats for overnight and long-haul bus journeys.
• Cook your own meals – Book accommodation with a kitchen so you can cook your own meals. Buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as going out to eat, but it does save money.
• Get outdoors – The easiest way to keep active and save money is to get outdoors and explore Slovakia’s national parks. Most don’t charge an entry fee. Nature fills your days and avoids slimming your wallet!
• Wild camp – If you really want to save money in Slovakia, bring your tent as wild camping is legal. You can pitch your tent on almost all public land throughout Slovakia. Just avoid national parks and forests.
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing is a great way to not only save money, but you’ll also connect with a knowledgeable local who can help you better understand the country and its people.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water in Slovakia is safe so bring a reusable water bottle to avoid single-use plastic. A filtered bottle like LifeStraw ensures your water is safe and clean. It’s perfect for anyone planning to hike or explore the country’s national parks.

Where to Stay in Slovakia

The hostel scene in Slovakia does not disappoint. Most have reliable Wi-Fi, kitchens, and are clean and modern. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Slovakia:

• Hostel Folks (Bratislava)
• Wild Elephants Hostel (Bratislava)
• The Ginger Monkey (High Tatras)
• Happy Bull (Kosice)
• Nitra Glycerin Hostel (Nitra)

How to Get Around Slovakia

Public transportation – For public transportation around cities, the fare is generally proportional to the duration of the journey. For example, in Bratislava, a 30-minute ride costs 0.90 EUR while a 60-minute ride costs 1.20 EUR. Day passes are available in most of the cities for around 4.50 EUR.

Bus – Flixbus is the most budget-friendly option to explore the country. The bus from Bratislava to Košice costs 22 EUR for the 6.5-hour journey. For Bratislava to Budapest, Hungary, the 2.5-hour bus ride ranges from 12-26 EUR while the one-hour trip from Bratislava to Vienna, Austria can be done for 9 EUR.

Trains – Trains are more expensive than buses and don’t reach as many destinations in the country. However, they’re a lot quicker. Bratislava to Poprad takes around 4 hours and costs 15 EUR. The 5.5-hour journey to Košice costs 18 EUR. The 2.5-hour trip to Budapest, Hungary costs 10 EUR while the 90-minute ride to Vienna, Austria costs 5 EUR.

Budget Airlines – There are no domestic flights around Slovakia.

Car Rental – Car rentals can be as low as 25 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. You need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to rent a vehicle.

When to Go to Slovakia

Slovakia has four distinct seasons. The summers are sunny and hot and see the biggest influx of visitors. July-August is the most popular time to visit, with daily highs around 27°C (81°F).

During the shoulder seasons, you avoid both the heat and the crowds. The best months to visit are between May-June or September-October, especially if you’re hiking. There are cooler temperatures and, in the fall, you get to see the leaves change. Expect temperatures around 20°C (68°F).

Winter is cold and snowy with temperatures dropping below freezing so I’d only visit if you plan on doing some winter sports, such as skiing.

How to Stay Safe in Slovakia

Slovakia is a very safe country to visit; it’s the 19th safest country in the world. Violent crime against tourists is virtually nonexistent. Pickpocketing can occur, however, especially in high-traffic areas such as Bratislava’s Old Town. Keep your valuables safely tucked away when in public just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If someone strikes up a conversation with you trying to sell something or if young children approach you, be on alert — their friend may be reaching for your wallet while you’re distracted.

If you’re worried about getting scammed, read this post on common travel scams to avoid.

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it while you’re hiking or overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you’re hiking here (especially doing alpine hiking in the mountains), make sure you let your hostel/hotel staff know just in case. Always bring a first aid kit as well as basic gear like a flashlight, raincoat, and extra food just in case.

If you experience an emergency, dial 158 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Slovakia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Slovakia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

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Exercise normal safety precautions in Slovakia.

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Exercise normal safety precautions in Slovakia.

• Do not travel from Slovakia to Ukraine. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. The security situation continues to be volatile.
• Petty crime, theft from vehicles and highway robberies can happen. Be careful on public transport, in tourist areas, petrol stations and highway parking areas. Use secure parking facilities.
• Bars and restaurants can overcharge travellers. Disputes about overcharging can lead to violence. Always check menu prices before ordering.
• Weather in mountain regions is unpredictable and can change suddenly. Don't ski outside prepared ski areas. 

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Take care in forests and rural areas where ticks carry encephalitis. Ticks are active from spring to autumn. Check your body for ticks and remove them as soon as possible.
• Medical treatment standards are reasonable, but facilities may be limited in rural areas. Hospitals and doctors may require payment upfront before they will treat you. 

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties include heavy fines and prison sentences. 
• Always carry your ID.
• Taking photos of military and police personnel, buildings, vehicles, or equipment is illegal.
• Penalties for driving offences are severe. Pay fines on the spot.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Slovakia is a part of the  Schengen area , meaning you can enter the country without a visa in some situations.
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact Slovakia's nearest  embassy or  consulate  for details.
• Register with the police if you plan to stay longer than 3 days in Slovakia.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Slovakia.

• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy in Vienna, Austria .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Border with ukraine.

Do not travel from Slovakia to Ukraine. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. Heavy fighting is occurring in parts of eastern and southern Ukraine. The security situation continues to be volatile. Take care while travelling in the regions bordering Ukraine. 

A fatal shooting outside a Bratislava bar on 12 October 2022 was deemed a terrorist act. Before this attack, there was no recent history of terrorism in Slovakia. Further attacks can't be ruled out. Potential targets include:

• public transport, including train stations
• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• public areas that attract large groups of people, such as sporting venues, shopping centres and tourist attractions.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• always be aware of your surroundings
• take care near places known to be possible terrorist targets
• report suspicious behaviour 
• alert police to unattended bags
• monitor the media for updates
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the affected area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. 

More information:

• Slovak police on  Facebook

Petty crime

Petty crime happens, especially around:

• railway stations
• public transport
• markets and bars
• other popular tourist spots, including Bratislava's Old Town area

Pickpockets often:

• work in teams
• include children
• use distraction techniques 
• target foreigners

To protect yourself from crime:

• watch your belongings on trains, buses and taxis, especially at night
• don't go out alone after dark or to isolated places, especially on foot
• always keep your vehicle and accommodation locked
• be alert to suspicious behaviour
• leave a situation if you think there may be danger
• monitor local media for new safety risks
• keep your passport separate from your other ID

Thefts and break-ins happen, including theft from cars.

Criminals sometimes slash tyres so they can offer to help. After distracting their victim, they then steal items.

To protect yourself from theft:

• pay attention to your belongings, especially on public transport and at tourist spots
• use secure parking if it's available
• on overnight trains, lock your door from the inside
• be wary of direct offers of help from strangers
• don't leave valuables in the car

Overcharging

Bars and restaurants sometimes overcharge travellers. Disputes about overcharging can lead to violence.

Always check the price of food and drinks before ordering. Be wary of invites to restaurants and bars from people you don't know. 

Drink spiking

Drink spiking can occur at popular nightclubs, often leading to  sexual assault .

To protect yourself from drink spiking:

• don't accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks alone
• stick with people you trust in bars and nightclubs

More information

• Party safely

Fake police officers

If you suspect someone is posing as a police officer, don't hand over your personal belongings. Offer to go to the nearest police station or call 112 to check their identity.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and events that draw large groups of people are generally peaceful but can turn violent.  

They can also disrupt traffic and public transport. 

To stay safe:

• avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings
• monitor local media
• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Climate and natural disasters

Slovakia experiences  severe weather  events and  natural disasters , such as:

• flash flooding
• mudslides (in mountain regions)

Weather in mountain regions is unpredictable and can change suddenly.

If you're visiting an area recently affected by severe weather:

• confirm your plans and activities with your tour operator or travel provider
• check the condition of roads, transport and facilities with local tour operators and hotels
• don't ski outside marked trails (off-piste). This is highly dangerous.

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers (especially if you plan to do adventure sports or winter sports)
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away (including if stopovers on the way to your destination are covered)
• If you plan to undertake high-risk activities, such as mountaineering or skiing, make sure your travel insurance covers you in an emergency.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Slovakia. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Tick-borne encephalitis  is a risk in forest areas.

Ticks are common in country areas and active from spring to autumn.

To protect yourself from illness: 

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• check your body for ticks during and after visiting forests
• remove ticks as soon as possible, making sure to remove the whole tick
• monitor the tick site for signs of infection

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical treatment standards are reasonable. Hospitals and other medical facilities are improving but vary in quality.

In rural and border regions, facilities can be limited.

Some doctors speak English, but other hospital staff rarely do.

Doctors and public hospitals usually expect you to pay cash up-front.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter , but we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

• Arrested or Jailed

Don't use or carry illegal drugs.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. Possessing even small amounts of illegal drugs can lead to prison sentences. This includes marijuana.

• Carrying or using drugs

Proof of identification

Local authorities can ask to see identity documents at any time.

Always carry your passport with you.

Alcohol laws

It's illegal to drink alcohol in the street in Bratislava Old Town. Doing so can result in a fine.

There may be exceptions for:

• seasonal markets
• outdoor seating at restaurants and bars

Photography

It's illegal to take photos of:

• military areas
• military vehicles
• other security-related subjects

Driving offences

Fines for minor driving infringements are heavy.

You need to pay these fines on the spot. If you don't, officials may take your licence.

Penalties for serious driving offences can include prison sentences.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Slovakia recognises dual nationality.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal but aren't widely accepted. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention.   

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Slovakia is part of the  Schengen area , meaning you can enter the country without a visa in some cases.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or  consulate  of Slovakia for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. If you don't, the Australian Government can't help you.

Other formalities

Make sure you:

• check that the entry stamp in your passport is readable when you enter the  Schengen  area for the first time. Border officials may ask you to show them an onward or return ticket.
• carry your passport when crossing borders, including within the  Schengen area .
• The Schengen Area
• Visa information (Department of Foreign And European Affairs of the Slovak Republic)
• information on borders (Department of Interior of the Slovak Republic

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, you must notify the Australian Government as soon as possible.

• In Australia, contact  the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact your nearest  Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

Slovakia's official currency is the Euro.

Declare more than 10,000 euros or equivalent funds if you're travelling between Slovakia and a non-EU country. This covers all forms of currency, not just cash. Failure to do so will result in fines.

You don't need to declare cash if you're travelling to or from another EU country.

ATMs may be rare in mountain areas or small villages.

Local travel

Driving permit.

You can drive in Slovakia for up to 90 days with both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence, and
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Driving without an IDP could void your travel and vehicle insurance. 

Get your IDP before departing Australia.

Road travel

Roads in Slovakia are generally safe.

Driving in poor weather, particularly on rural roads, may be dangerous.

When driving in Slovakia, you must:

• have winter tyres in snow or icy conditions
• keep your headlights on at all times (even during the daytime)
• carry a warning triangle and first aid kit in your vehicle 

Check your rental car is fitted with the required equipment.

The blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0%.

You must purchase an  electronic permit (vignette)  to drive on motorways. You can buy these online or at petrol stations, post offices and border stations. 

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check whether your travel insurance policy covers you when using a motorcycle, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Use only clearly marked taxis. Check that the meter is running at the beginning of your trip to avoid being overcharged. 

Public transport

Slovakia has a well-developed and reliable public transportation system. This includes trains that run to all major towns. Take care of your personal belongings, particularly on trains and in major transport hubs. Don't leave bags unattended on trains, even briefly.

• Transport and getting around safely

River cruises

If you plan to join a Danube river cruise, read the  health  and  travelling by boat  pages.

Make sure you consider border crossings and travel with your passport.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check the  Slovakia air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

For non-urgent criminal issues, contact the nearest police station.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Austria.

Australian Embassy, Vienna

The Icon, Gertrude-Fröhlich-Sandner-Str. 2 1100 Vienna Phone: +43 1 506 740

Email: [email protected]  Website:  austria.embassy.gov.au X:  @AusAmbVIE

Facebook: @ AusEmbassyVie

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Slovakia?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

Slovakia Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Slovakia

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Slovakia entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Slovakia from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Slovakia.

Can I travel to Slovakia if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Slovakia without restrictions.

Can I travel to Slovakia without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Slovakia without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Slovakia?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Slovakia.

Can I travel to Slovakia without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Slovakia?

Mask usage in Slovakia is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Slovakia?

Restaurants in Slovakia are open. Bars in Slovakia are .

Is It Safe To Travel To Slovakia? Everything You Need To Know

Is it safe to travel to slovakia.

Pickpockets and Petty Crimes

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Road Safety

Safety in bratislava.

Is it Safe to Travel to Slovakia Right Now With Ukraine?

Why travel to slovakia.

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Adventure

Historic castles and towns.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Affordability

Advice for a safe trip.

Stay Up to Date

Health, safety, and emergency numbers.

Be Prepared for the Weather

Consider a guided tour.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Slovakia travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: April 2, 2024 10:26 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, slovakia - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Slovakia

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Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, especially in crowded areas and particularly during summer months. Foreigners are often targeted.

Pickpockets often work in teams, sometimes including children, and target people on trains and at railway stations and airports. Their methods include distracting a victim who is boarding or exiting a train or surrounding a victim in line-ups or at check-out counters.

Always be suspicious if someone offers to help you with a flat tire. These individuals may have punctured the tire themselves and seize the opportunity to steal a bag or other valuable objects while you are distracted.

Individuals have also been harassed for reasons of race or foreign-looking appearance.

• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Do not show signs of affluence
• Avoid public parks in city centres and railway stations after dark

Be vigilant in:

• shopping centres
• public transportation stations
• major tourist attractions, including Bratislava’s Old Town area

Car thefts and break-ins occur, particularly in major cities. Car thieves target foreign luxury vehicles more than other models.

Avoid leaving luggage or valuables in the vehicle; use secure parking facilities.

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities. There is a potential for other violent incidents.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Individuals posing as plainclothes police officers may ask to see your foreign currency and passport. If approached, decline to hand over personal belongings. Offer instead to go to the nearest police station or seek assistance from a local contact.

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as these items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. Driving conditions may be hazardous during winter.

Drivers do not respect traffic laws. They often drive at excessive speeds and use reckless manoeuvring.

Avoid travelling after dark in remote areas.

Public transportation

Public transportation is well developed and reliable.

Officially marked taxis are generally reliable, safe and economical. Beware of taxi drivers who try to overcharge by not switching on the meter. Pre-negotiate the fare.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Slovak authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

Slovakia is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days* Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Student visa: not required for stays up to 90 days

* The 90-day period begins upon initial entry into any country of the Schengen area. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country within any 180-day period.

Canadians who intend to work or plan to remain in Slovakia for more than 90 days must obtain a temporary residence permit. Failure to obtain a residence permit for stays of over 90 days could result in deportation. Deportation from Slovakia will also mean expulsion from the greater Schengen area.

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds for your stay.

Health insurance

Customs officials may ask you to show proof of health insurance.

Registration

If you intend to stay in private accommodations for a visit lasting more than 30 days, you must register with the nearest police station within three days of arrival. Hotel guests are registered by hotel staff.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Medical facilities are adequate.

Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Slovakia are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Slovakia to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Slovakia authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences.

Public intoxication and disorderly conduct is illegal. Offenders could be severely fined or detained.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Slovakia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Slovakia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Slovakia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Slovakia, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Slovak court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Slovakia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Identification

You must carry photo identification, such as a passport as local authorities can ask you to prove your identity. Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it’s lost or confiscated.

Photography

Avoid taking pictures of military installations and personnel, as this activity is prohibited locally.

You should carry an international driving permit.

There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol. Penalties are strict.

Vehicles must be equipped with the following items for emergency situations:

• a first aid kit
• warning triangle
• functional spare tire
• high-visibility vests for all passengers

A vignette (toll sticker) is required to travel on highways. You can buy them at border crossings, gas stations and post offices.

Fines for traffic violations must be paid on the spot.

• Driving in Slovakia  - European Commission
• More about the International Driving Permit

The currency of Slovakia is the euro (EUR).

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Heavy rains and thunderstorms during spring and summer may result in flooding, generate localized landslides and cause significant damage to roads.

If you decide to travel to Slovakia during these seasons:

• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Slovakia, in Bratislava, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

• Quarantine and conditions of return to the Slovak Republic

Entry of Foreigners during the Extraordinary Situation

The information on conditions of entry of foreigners during the extraordinary situation is published on the  website of the Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic . If you have questions concerning the border regime, please contact the  Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic  or the Bureau of Border and Foreign Police of the Presidium of the Police Force of the Slovak Republic ( [email protected] ).

Requests for information on issuance of visas for entry to the Slovak Republic should be addressed directly to the respective embassy or consulate general of the Slovak Republic.

From 6 April 2022, the Decree of the Public Health Authority of the Slovak Republic No. 28/2022 regulating the regime at the borders (quarantine, registration on eHranica) was repealed. Other conditions of entry to the Slovak Republic  through the external or internal border, as published on the  website of the Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic , remain in force.

Additional measures adopted to contain spreading of the COVID-19 disease

For information on additional restrictive measures adopted by the Public Health Authority (limitations on free movement of persons in public without face protective equipment, etc.) see the  website of the Public Health Authority.

Basic protective measures against the new coronavirus

Coronavirus disease (COVID-2019) situation reports

European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• +421 2 5978 5978
• Consular info center from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• [email protected]
• +421 2 5978 5959
• Business info center
• [email protected]

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Slovakia Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Slovakia. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Carnival and Mardi Gras June 30, 2021 This notice has been removed. Destination List: Lithuania, Malta, North Macedonia, Norway, Slovakia, Slovenia, United States

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Slovakia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Slovakia. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Slovakia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Slovakia is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Tick-borne Encephalitis

For travelers moving or traveling to TBE-endemic areas

TBE vaccine is recommended for persons who will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary.

TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas ticks are likely to be found. 

Tick-borne Encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Airborne & droplet.

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Counsel your patients on actions they can take on their trip to stay healthy and safe.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Slovakia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Slovakia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Slovakia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Slovakia may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Slovakia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Remind your patients to pack health and safety items. Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Slovakia for a list of health-related items they should consider packing.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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• Tour Account ›
• Travel Forum ›
• Travel Forum

Is Slovakia safe?

We plan on traveling throughout Slovakia (and Hungary) by car in the Fall for two months, and we are now second guessing how safe it is there, especially places outside of the major cities of Bratislava (and Budapest). We just came back from a two month driving adventure through Slovenia and Croatia, and discovered that parts of Croatia weren’t that great, although Slovenia was fantastic in every way! Locals mentioned to us that Slovakia is just okay as far as safety is concerned (although not as bad as Bosnia). We travelled through Bosnia for a little bit, and it was very uncomfortable and the roads were a mess.

So have any of you traveled through Slovakia via car recently? If so, what was your impression?

Thank you in advance for your replies. I really appreciate it! Lisa

just wondering, with the multiple 2 month trips, are you running up against the 90 days in 180 Schengen limits?

Sorry not to have personal Slovakia recent knowledge

Are you referring solely to road infrastructure/ driving conditions, or anything else?

Here is what the US Embassy thinks about Slovakia (hint, it is Level 1, low risk) - https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/slovakia-travel-advisory.html

Your post is unclear about what you mean by "safe," "weren't great," and "very uncomfortable." As you likely know, Slovakia is a developed country in the heart of the European Union.

Perhaps you want to ask your question as well on the Trip Advisor forum for Slovakia.

I picked Presov because its sort of centrally located and maybe more typical than Bratislava. Compared it to Kansas City, MO; but you can input your home town.

https://www.numbeo.com/crime/compare_cities.jsp?country1=United+States&country2=Slovakia&city1=Kansas+City%2C+MO&city2=Presov&tracking=getDispatchComparison

And yes, I have driven through Slovakia a few times and nothing botheres me. Of course nothing much bothered me in Bosnia or Croatia either; Albania, just a tiny bit of discomfort. But its all about personal tolerances so no answer is right or wrong.

You do know that Slovakia shares a border with Ukraine, right?

Thanks for your responses. As far as what I meant by safety, as an example in Karlovac, Croatia, we were very surprised to see that most of the buildings were left in a bombed-out state due to the war in the 1990’s. There was also more poverty there compared to other parts of Croatia. Bosnia’s roads were horrendous with potholes and roads in total disrepair. The villages we saw in Bosnia were very run down and dilapidated, and as I had mentioned previously, locals that we had spoken to about Bosnia’s situation agreed with us that they drive all the way around Bosnia rather than through it even though it takes more driving time to do it that way.

We have driven extensively throughout Europe for years including living there back in the ‘90’s. Yes, I know Slovakia borders Ukraine - but so does Poland which is a wonderful country to explore. I’m also aware of the Level 1 status of Slovakia which was one of the reasons we wanted to go there, but after speaking to some of the locals about Slovakia’s safety issues, we have been second guessing our travel plans. That’s why I posted my original question here to see what others have experienced.

Thanks for suggesting to ask the question through TripAdvisor. We’ll definitely give that a try!

So to you unsafe = buildings in disrepair as a result of a still fairly recent war, "poverty," potholes.

I am sorry that these things make you uncomfortable and that you equate these things with personal safety. Perhaps Sweden or Switzerland is a better choice for you.

I don’t think you are going to feel “safe” in Slovakia. You might think about Austria instead.

I would say you aren’t going to be happy with the roads. I won’t try and classify them as safe or dangerous as that’s way too subjective; will just say that they are pretty much consistent with Eastern Europe in general. I have maybe 10 hours experience on Slovakian roads (almost the full width of the country and a lot of smaller roads looking for fishing spots), and close to equal that experience on roads in each Bosnia, Croatia and Montenegro.

You won’t find any bombed out buildings in Slovakia (like you will in Budapest), but you will find many condemned (or should be condemned buildings).

The poverty rate in Slovakia is on par with Hungary, slightly better than Croatia and Bosnia and like Croatia and Bosnia lower by nearly half that of Poland.

As for crime, you will have trouble finding any place in any of these countries that is not statistically less crime ridden than any location in the United States (unfortunately). I posted a link for you to search.

Well, I started to say I would be interested in your perceptions if you do this trip, since one of my two early October options is a 2 week solo drive through Slovakia. But I don’t think you’ll be early enough.

I understand that your use of “safe” might refer to damage to your car due to bad roads, as opposed to physical safety for yourself. Having just come from Albania and now with a car in northern Greece, I have seen a variety of roads and can see that to be valid sometimes. I suspect Slovakia might be the same. But with only 2 weeks, I won’t have time to get TOO far off the mainstream.

I don’t have much experience in Bosnia yet, for comparison, but I will be there for 2 weeks in September. My limited experience there so far is driving Dubrovnik to Mostar to Zadar - roads were just fine. I will learn more soon.

I guess I am a little odd, in that I typically tend to feel “safer” regarding my physical safety (as in theft, not assault - I have yet to worry about that) in smaller places than bigger cities. Some day I may encounter something to prove me wrong but not yet.

With your experiences, you should post a trip report of the “off the beaten track” places you have driven to!

TexasMom, I think it's reasonable to think you're safer from pickpockets in smaller cities. I think the larger more touristed cities would definitely be a magnet for pickpockets.

If you have that fear it willl cloud your trip. You should not go. That said. I would go. I went to Mostar and Sarajevo recently on public transport. Never once thought about safe or not. Sure, there are some dilapidated buildings. Heck, Italy is full of that. Now that you mentioned Slovakia, maybe it is the place and time to go, before the tour buses start rolling on a regular basis.

treemoss2, Slovakia (other than Bratislava which is barely in Slovakia) is one of the greatest undiscovered destinations in Europe. The nature, the castles the old towns and the unique cultures. Hard to beat. Also like a lot of Eastern Europe not convenient to navigate like countries in the West are.

But you are 100% correct, you gotta feel comfortable to enjoy.

I hope the OP realizes that much of Hungary looks like Croatia and Slovakia? Budapest (and every village and town) has bombed out or abandoned buildings, (this is a few blocks from where I stay: https://bigseventravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/mazel.jpg and is not uncommon at all), You can not take a walk through the tourist zone of Budapest or any village center without seeing homeless sleeping in doorways (the poorest country in the EU I believe). I've been on some pretty dicey roads in Hungary too and there are a few streets in Budapest that are paved by defination but not by function.

As safe as anywhere else, but the country was a bit boring - shoulda listened to the elderly front desk guy at my Vienna hotel and used my day more wisely.

Mister É, Slovakia is one of the greatest undiscovered destinations in Europe. This is what you told me about Albania, too….. Although you weren’t wrong.

country was a bit boring - shoulda listened to the elderly front desk guy at my Vienna hotel and used my day more wisely. This seems to be where I am any time I spend only a day or part of a day somewhere large. I have almost quit. A whole country in one day is a lot.

@cala, thanks. :) Maybe I am not so odd. Lol.

I am really excited about a circle around Slovakia. I guess I should go ahead and rent my car…..

A whole country in one day is a lot.

Yeah, that one day reconnaissance paid huge dividends - saved me from investing more time in a less than desirable country.

T.T.Mom, I hate posting this, because Slovakia has been a great secret. But here you go T.T.M. https://www.slovakia.com/castles/

When are you going? If I am in Budapest, maybe I will run up and visit you for a day.

Thanks for all your replies! We were actually very disappointed of the possibility of us not going to Slovakia, especially with all the research I’ve done - but now, we’ve decided to go! I’ll share our experiences with you all after we come back. Thanks again!

Sorry I am only seeing this now. I have been traveling in Slovakia since 2001. More than a dozen trips. I have never had a issue where we have felt uncomfortable. As a matter of fact we have found Slovaks to be most welcoming. More so than the US. I think you will find the country and the people to be some of the friendliest. The country has some of the most beautiful landscapes and castles in Europe. On my early trips english in the villages and smaller cities was a problem but now most young people speak very good english. It is taught in the school systems. If you learn a few words or sentence's in Slovak it will make your experience even better. Joining the EU also helped build up the infrastructure. Most roads are very good. They are slowly building autobahns through the country, but you really want to get off the beaten path and enjoy the ride. The food is also a good reason to visit. We love it. You can order great guide books and maps thru...The Slovak Spectator [email protected] Communications is also not a problem there. I use T Mobile and is free. other voice call. Typically we rent a car at the Bratislava airport because its half the cost of Vienna. You can take the train from Vienna to Bratislava and then Uber to the airport. about 27e for 2 people. You can also fly into Krakow and rent a car. ....another great small city to visit. Slovakia is our goto country.

I hope you made the trip. For anyone that wants suggestions on where to go and what to see please email me [email protected] Happy travels.

Jesus. Bosnia is one of the safest countries I've been to. I feel safer there than I do in any big city in Western Europe.

Its been a few years, but to answer your question, which cities, which neighborhood in those cities? Or in general, yes, pretty safe.

As for Bosnia, now, yes safe. Once war breaks out, maybe not.

Well, we just got back from our 2-month adventure to Slovakia and Hungary, and I must say that it was absolutely wonderful! We had the greatest time and felt as if we were transported in time. Loved all the historical sites which were further enhanced by having fewer crowds as compared to many Western European countries. Luckily we kept a daily journal because otherwise I probably couldn’t remember everywhere we visited because we saw so much. Definitely recommend these two countries and we can’t wait to go back again!

P.S. One thing I have to mention is that we were staying in a hotel on the 6th floor in Humenne, Slovakia (which was the epicenter) during a 5.3 earthquake! We heard that this type of occurrence never happened in Slovakia before - but believe me, this is an experience that we will never forget!

Good that you enjoyed the visit in Slovakia. A day trip from Vienna either by train or the boat dep. from Schwedenplatz is what interests me. Did you visit Bratislava too?

In Bratislava aside from exploring the Zentrum , I 'm interested in seeing the chateau (connected to Napoleonic history), known historically as "Schloß Preßburg" whether a guided tour is available and all that.

Glad you made the trip. When you get a chance please share your where you visited.

Glad you made it and had a great trip! Any chance you will post a trip report? I didn’t make it to Slovakia this fall but would still love to.

Congrats on your trip. You have slayed the dragon in your mind.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Slovakia

Quick navigation, about slovakia.

• Best Places to visit

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Great adventure trips, slovakia’s outdoors, travel costs, travel safety, best time to visit, how to get around slovakia, best places to stay, useful travel tools, visa requirements when travelling to slovakia, interesting facts about slovakia.

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Take our Slovakia travel trips and plan your unforgettable expedition into this underrated country punctuated by mountains, castles, and historic cities.

Europe is one of the most-visited continents in the world, housing countless must-see destinations. Not into bumping shoulders with tourists every step just to get from A to B? Find far lighter crowds and standout destinations in Slovakia, an underrated gem right in the heart of Europe. This little country boasts mountainous expanses that rival any other outdoor destination and towns and cities rich with history. Rock climb, hike, sightsee, bike, ski, and swim off the beaten path while you travel Slovakia!

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Bratislava Castle The Clouds Slovakia Danube River

Slovakia is a self-assured nation born of the 1993 split of Czechoslovakia. Peacefully parting ways with the Czech Republic, each country embraced their own cultures and traditions to better define the two regions as separate entities. As a country that packs enticing topography, deep history, and distinct culture into one little package, it won’t take a long trip to get a feel for why other travellers are missing out by missing Slovakia.

Travellers to Slovakia often come to explore the splendid Old Town of Bratislava, the war-scarred fortresses, the impressive mountains, and the stately castles. For a trip that mixes outdoor adventure with cultural discovery, this is the place to be! While Bratislava will be most traveller’s jumping-off point, the far-north High Tatras mountain range cannot be left off the adventure traveller’s list. Košice provides a charming break en route to the Tokaj wine region in Slovakia’s sparsely-populated east. There’s lots to see, but this travel guide to Slovakia will show you how easy it is to see it all.

Best Places to Visit

When you step out of the plane, train, or automobile that brought you to Slovakia, odds are high that you’ll find yourself in Bratislava. This city of around 425,000 has been the capital since Slovakia became independent, and it’s a colourful blend of styles. Expect to find Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture all in one walk as you explore each castle and palace. Communist influence contrasts starkly with the ornate styles of earlier periods, with blocky apartment buildings harking back to the influence of the Communist Party of Slovakia.

While you’ll be cruising the gorgeous Old Town and perusing cafes and shops during the day, it’s impossible to ignore the raucous nightlife once the sun goes down. Bachelor parties from Vienna often target Bratislava to take advantage of the ever-flowing taps and rowdy bars. If you’re keen to be social, Bratislava will deliver.

Bratislava was also mentioned on The Broke Backpacker as one of the best places to visit when  backpacking in Eastern Europe .

High Tatras

We’ve talked about the High Tatras mountain range in detail, but you simply can’t plan an adventure travel trip to Slovakia without visiting these peaks. The High Tatras range is actually known as the smallest alpine mountain range in the world, but don’t let that deter you. The highest point of the range, Gerlachovský štít, reaches 2,655 m high. Mount Kriváň, Slovakia’s most iconic and recognizable peak, reaches 2,495 m high.

The High Tatras range is part of the larger Carpathian range that sprawls over the border between Slovakia and Poland. This region is home to ski resorts, over 600km of marked hiking trails, and cozy mountain towns to enjoy. Long-distance hikers love the 72.0 km Tatranská Magistrála trail that connects the mountains from east to west. Mountain bikers and snowshoers flock to the trails. Rock climbers can try their hands at unique routes. All that to say, this is where the action’s at if you’re looking to get outdoors!

Those visiting the High Tatras can make Štrbské Pleso, Starý Smokovec, or Tatranská Lomnica their home base.

Gerlachovsky stit hishest point in the High Tatras

Slovak Karst Caves

Get on top of the world, and then get below it! Some of Slovakia’s most incredible natural attractions are the karst caves tucked along the border with Hungary. These caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for their otherworldly scenery. Seriously, it feels like you’re in a movie down here.

There are seven components to the entire site, four of which are in Slovakia. While all of the designated cave areas are worth seeing, we definitely recommend heading down into Dominica Cave to take an underground boat ride on the River Styx. Don’t worry, you won’t be headed to Hades.

Designated as the 2013 European Capital of Culture, Košice is the second-largest city in Slovakia and the hub of the eastern side of the country. While only populated by some 240,000 people, Košice is packed with museums, galleries, exhibitions, and theatres. The architecture around the city is to die for, especially the dramatic St. Elisabeth Cathedral. Take a stroll down the pedestrian-only main street, where churches, aristocratic palaces, and modern boutiques line the sidewalk.

Košice also provides a great home base for those looking to explore the quiet eastern end of Slovakia. Most visitors to the idyllic Tokaj wine region will use this city as their gateway.

Slovakia boasts plenty to do for the adventure traveller and the casual tourist alike. To start building out an itinerary, here are some of our favourite things to do in Slovakia.

Get into those mountains! While we’ve covered the High Tatras, there are also great hiking routes in the Mala Fatra Mountains, which are conveniently just a couple of hours outside of Bratislava. While we’ve got a collection of route guides to help you find your way in Slovakia, some of our favourite hikes in the country include Mlynická Dolina to Furkotská Dolina Loop, Zelené Pleso, and Mount Rysy.

If you’re not looking to gain major elevation, a casual walk to explore the Garden of Janko Kráľ in Bratislava is lovely. Since 40% of the country is forested, you’ll find plenty of spots for a nice nature walk out in the woods without needing to scale a mountain. One of the top outdoor destinations in the country is Slovak Paradise, a national park that combines 19 different nature reserves, over 350 caves, and countless canyons and gorges to explore.

Halic Castle Galicia Lucenec Slovakia

So we’ve got mountains, we’ve got snowy winters… All we need is skis! Slovakia has a smattering of ski resorts, the most popular being Jasná Nízke Tatry–Chopok (perfect for advanced skiers and freeriders), Tatranská Lomnica (great for beginners), and Park Snow Donovaly (ideal for families with children). If you prefer cross-country to downhill, try Ski Mlynky. One of the most popular snow sports in Slovakia right now is “uphill skiing,” which is essentially the same as alpine touring. Skiers will use skins and detachable heel boots to climb up the hill, then shed their skins and lock in to descend.

Of course, snowboarders are more than welcome at the resorts of Slovakia. Most resorts open in December and remain open through the end of April.

Mountain Biking

There’s a thriving mountain biking scene in Slovakia, so those looking to explore on two wheels should feel right at home. Trails range from beginner to advanced and you’ll be able to find trailheads quite close to Bratislava. Some of the top-rated trails in the country include the Včelín Biely Kríž – Malý Slavín Bratislava Loop from Bratislava hlavná stanica (a mouthful), the Sandberg – Rozhladna Devinska kobyla Loop from Devínska Nová Ves, and the Forest Path Loop from Košice.

If you’re wanting to travel light, you can rent mountain bikes at shops throughout the country.

Cultural and Historical Exploration

Once you’ve tired yourself out on the trails, come back to the cities and towns of Slovakia to experience what makes this little country so special. Castles both pristine and in ruin are a true highlight here, and a day or two spent castle-spotting is a must. There are over 100 castles dotting the hills of Slovakia, the lovely 12th-century Bojnice Castle being one of the most visited castles in Europe. The neo-Gothic Orava Castle is one of the most beautiful in Slovakia and was used as a filming location for the 1992 silent film Nosferatu .

Once you’ve had your fill of castles (if that’s ever possible), pop into local museums to catch glimpses of Slovakia’s rich history. Our favourites are the Bratislava City Museum, the Museum of Clocks, the Slovak National Art Gallery, and the Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum in Bratislava.

Planning your perfect Slovakia trip? Booking a guided or self-guided tour can take the stress off, allowing you to soak up the scenery while your accommodations, transport, meals, and activities are looked after. We add more adventure tours all the time, so check back soon to see what incredible trips we’ve added in Slovakia!

Hiking Slovakia

Slovakia is a small, landlocked country in central Europe. It’s bordered by Poland to the north, Austria to the southwest, Ukraine to the east, and the Czech Republic to the northwest. Much of the northern reaches of the country are covered with forested mountains. The central regions see a transition from the Ore Mountains to the lowlands of the Danube. Rural countryside dominates the east, where wine regions intertwine.

Carpathian Mountains

You’ve probably got it down by now that if you’re looking for adventure in Slovakia, you’re going to head north to the mountains. Slovakia’s mountain ranges are more impressive the further north you go, and this is where you’ll find the best hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and snowshoeing in the country. The Carpathian Mountains actually reach down into central Slovakia before giving way to flatter grounds.

The popular High Tatra range, where one of Slovakia’s most popular national parks lies, is part of the Central Western Carpathians. The Ore Mountains lie farther south, an important economic feature (judging by the name, you can probably guess why).

Outside of the mountains, most of Slovakia is lowland that leads towards the Danube River along the southern border. All of Slovakia’s smaller rivers drain south towards the Danube, which is a vital connector through Central Europe (and a fun spot for a river cruise!).

Bratislava dominates the western lowlands, and the eastern, while sparsely populated, host a wine region that sprawls into Hungary.

Good news! Slovakia won’t break the bank for travellers. While other, more well-known European destinations require some serious splurging (looking at you, Scandinavia, France, and Switzerland), Slovakia retains a factor of affordability due to its underrated travel status. While it’s not on par with known budget destinations, it’s a great way to experience the charm of Europe without draining your savings. We’ll talk about costs in USD for consistency.

Accessible to those in Europe but overseas for many travellers, flights to Slovakia vary greatly in cost depending on where they’re departing from. Travellers from North America should budget anywhere from $700-$1000 for flights depending on where they’re flying out of. Travellers in Europe could enjoy flights as cheap as $100 or less!

Popradske pleso. High Tatras Slovakia

Accommodation

Where you rest your head each night can be one of your best budgeting tools. Expect to spend about $50 per night for a midrange single-occupancy hotel (more like $80 or $90 for two people) or about $40 per night for a budget hotel or hostel. High-end hotel rooms can be booked for north of $300 per night.

Daily Expenses

While the cost of your day-to-day in Slovakia can be highly variable, expect to budget anywhere between $40 and $90 per day for food, travel, and sightseeing. If you’re planning a special excursion, we recommend choosing a provider beforehand and budgeting according to their costs.

Restaurant meals start at about $10, with lunch often being cheaper. Beer is exceptionally cheap here, with pints flowing for as little as $1.50. Expect fast food meals to come in around $6 and a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant to run about $35.

Tips and Gratuities

Travellers from heavy-tipping countries, take note! Tipping in Slovakia typically happens at a much smaller percentage than you may be used to. 10 percent of the bill at a sit-down restaurant is plenty. When you pay, tell the server how much you want to pay, not how much change you want back. Take care not to say “thank you” until you’ve received your change back or the server may take it as a sign that you don’t want change.

Tipping hotel staff is not expected, but it’s nice if they went above and beyond for you. In taxis or shuttles, rounding up to the nearest euro is sufficient.

Slovakia is a considerably safe destination, with little for travellers to worry about beyond basic safety practices. You’ll likely find people to be generally courteous and polite.

There are a few local scams that specifically target tourists. First of all, although it might sound like a good time, beware of good-looking strangers inviting you to a specific bar. This is a common scam where foreigners are charged for overpriced drinks all night. While you might still enjoy your evening, your wallet will take a bigger hit than necessary.

Additionally, some taxi drivers will attempt to overcharge tourists, especially in Bratislava. Ensure you’re in an official cab (have the bar or hotel call a cab for you if you’re unsure), and insist on paying what the meter reads.

Another common scam involves strangers slashing your tires and then offering you help when you notice. If you see you have a flat tire and someone offers help, be suspicious. Keep an eye on your belongings, as theft is nearly always an objective in these situations.

Besides those specific scams, simply practice the same vigilance you would anywhere else. Keep your wallet and purse secure, especially in crowded areas, take care at ATMs, don’t travel in flashy jewelry, be wary of assertive or aggressive strangers, take care when travelling at night, and keep an eye on your drinks at the bar.

Travellers heading into the mountains should consider hiring a guide. If not, ensure you’re well-prepared with maps, GPS routes, proper clothing and footwear, and contacts off the trail who know where you’re going and when to expect you back.

Skiing Slovakia Jasna Nizke Tatry Chopok

Most travelling to Slovakia come between June and August when the warm summer weather is at its best. If you’re keen to explore the cities, hike, swim, or bike, summer is the perfect time to make the trip. If you’re more interested in skiing, December through February are ideal.

The busiest season in Slovakia is July and August, so be prepared for potentially heavier crowds around tourist attractions should you choose to visit during the summer.

In line with much of the rest of Europe, Slovakia boasts a well-connected public transport system that makes getting from A to B quite easy. In addition, other modes of transport and the small size of the country make it easy to navigate.

Not many travellers will fly across Slovakia. While you certainly could book a flight, taking the train is generally the more popular option. Most domestic flights serve to cover the ground between Bratislava and Košice. This route is run by Czech Airlines.

Trains are the easiest (and most scenic!) way to travel through Slovakia. The route between Bratislava and Košice is the most popular in the country, but you can also take the train to the north or south ends of the country.

We recommend buying tickets online in advance, as navigating the train system on the fly without any knowledge of Slovak can be hit or miss. The most popular train lines are Intercity (IC), or Eurocity (EC). You can purchase tickets online through Slovak Railways .

Slovak Karst Caves Slovak Karst Caves

With an impressive network of bus lines spidering through the country, it’s impressively easy to reach even seemingly remote towns by bus in Slovakia. We recommend paying close attention to timetables , as weekends, evenings, holidays, and the size of the town served all affect how often buses run.

If you prefer total control over your travel plans and the flexibility to move around without a schedule, renting a car might be the best way to get around Slovakia. Rental cars can be arranged in Bratislava, Košice, and Poprad. You may need an International Driving Permit to drive in Slovakia, so we recommend touching base with a rental car company in advance to check.

Highways in Slovakia are kept in good shape, but you may find potholes, cobblestone streets, and narrow lanes in cities and towns. Take care. Additionally, know that winter tires may be mandatory in the snow, and you’ll not be permitted to drive with any alcohol in your system. Speed limits in Slovakia may feel fast to drivers from some countries- you’ll see drivers easily exceeding 130km/hr on the highway. Keep out of the passing lane unless passing and note seasonal reductions in speed limits.

When you travel to Slovakia, you’ll have a few choices of where to rest your head each night.

For those on a budget, hostels are available. Check out Hostel World for locations throughout the country.

Camping isn’t as popular or easy in Slovakia as it is in some other European destinations, as wild camping or random camping is prohibited. You’ll need to book a designated campsite , some of which offer nice facilities and spaces for campers or other larger vehicles.

Most travellers to Slovakia will stay in hotels, which are safe bets across the country. You’ll be able to find a hotel room in most places you end up.

St.Elisabeth Cathedral Kosice Slovakia

Booking Accommodation

These are some of our most-used websites to book hotels on: Booking.com , Hotels.com , Expedia.com , and Agoda.com . For long-term rentals or more unique listings, check with Vrbo.com .

Booking Flights

Trying to snag the best price possible? Check out Skyscanner or CheapOair . Those waiting for the cheapest time to book flights should download the Hopper app.

Train Tickets and Car Rentals

Book train tickets with Slovak Railways .

To score a deal on your car rental, check Economy Bookings . Leaving your car at the terminal? Try using Airport Parking Reservations to save some cash on airport parking.

Planning on getting out and about? Of course you are. For warm winter threads suitable for the hill or trail, some of our favourites are Arc’teryx , Patagonia , and Helly Hansen . For those needing trail running and hiking gear, check Salomon and the Running Room . And if you plan on doing some hiking and backpacking, gear up through MEC or MSR .

We recommend choosing your gear ahead of time and bringing it with you, as quality outdoor gear is not very widely available in Slovakia.

Slovakia is part of the Schengen zone, a group of countries in Europe with standardized visa requirements. You can find a list of countries whose nationals are required to apply for a visa prior to travelling to Slovakia on the Schengen Visa Info website , but always check with your local travel authority to confirm. Depending on your country of origin, you may need to apply for a visa just to change planes in the Schengen area. For quick reference, citizens of Canada and the United States do not require visas. Tourist visas are normally valid for 90 days.

No matter where you fall in terms of your visa, you’ll always need a valid passport issued within the last 10 years and valid until 3 months after your departure date. Certain criminal convictions can prevent your entry to Slovakia, so it’s good to check ahead to make sure you’re eligible for entry.

Tokaj wine region vineyards

Want some fun facts to share with your newfound Slovak friends? Here are some interesting claims to fame for Slovakia.

• Slovakia boasts the highest number of castles per capita in the world. There are 180 castles and 450 chateaux within its borders.
• Even more impressive than the number of castles is the number of caves in Slovakia: 6000 of them!
• Bratislava is the only capital city in the world that borders two other countries (Hungary and Austria).
• The geographical middle of Europe is in Slovakia, close to a village called Kremnické Bane.
• You can stand in awe of the tallest Gothic wooden altar in the world here. It’s the altar of St. Jakub.
• The oldest toy ever discovered was dug up near Košice: a 3000-year old wheeled pushcart.

Frequently Asked Questions about Slovakia

Nobody hops on a plane without a few questions first! Hopefully these answers to frequently asked questions about travelling to Slovakia help you plan your perfect trip.

What language do Slovaks speak?

Well, Slovaks speak Slovak. Slovak is similar to literary Czech, but the two languages are distinct. You’ll likely also come across German, Hungarian, and Czech speakers while travelling through Slovakia. Many Slovaks know some English, especially younger generations, but it’s not as reliably spoken as in some other European countries.

How should I travel around Slovakia?

Trains and buses are the best way to travel within Slovakia. They’re well-connected, affordable, and allow you to appreciate the fantastic scenery.

Is Slovakia cold?

Sometimes, yes! Slovakia enjoys pleasant summers and chillier winters. If visiting between November and March, expect some occasional below-freezing temperatures and snow, especially closer to the mountains.

Vysoke Tatry Strba Tarn Lake

Is Slovakia dangerous?

Slovakia is not especially dangerous for travellers. Exercise the same common-sense safety practices you would anywhere else.

Does Slovakia use the euro?

Yes. You can pay using the euro in Slovakia, which was adopted as their currency in 2009.

What is the food like in Slovakia?

Slovakian cuisine is similar to other Central European nations, focusing on meat and dairy. Slovakian food was born of a need for high-energy, affordable, quick meals for peasants, herders, and labourers. Lovers of leafy greens should prepare themselves: vegetables are not as plentiful or diverse in Slovakian food.

Expect dishes like pork dumplings, pierogies, cabbage soup, bread with meats or jam, and goulash soup. While in Bratislava, you’ll be able to find more popular chain restaurants and fast food if you look for it.

20th anniversary of EU’s biggest enlargement: nine out of the ten countries that joined are now in Schengen

On 1 May, 20 years ago, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia joined the European Union. Today, nine out of these ten Member States, are part of the Schengen area, guaranteeing free movement and promoting safe travel within Europe.  

The Schengen area has evolved into the world's largest free travel area, guaranteeing smooth and secure travel to a population of almost 450 million people and bolstering the EU's competitiveness. Free movement of persons enables every EU citizen to travel, work and live in any EU country of their choice without special formalities. Today, the Schengen Area encompasses most EU countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland. Bulgaria and Romania became the newest Member States to join the Schengen area as of 31 March 2024. As a result, any person crossing the internal air and sea borders will no longer be subject to checks.  

The EU enlargement of 2004 has also strengthened European security, spanning from greater police cooperation to external border controls. It has enhanced peace, stability, and expanded the area of liberty, security and the rule of law, enabling EU to better combat cross-border crime, including drug trafficking, money laundering and online criminality.  

Find out more

Schengen Area  

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Slovakia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Slovak Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Slovakia.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Slovakia, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements .

To enter Slovakia (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to .

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document, or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

You could get a fine of 1600 euros if you stay longer than legally allowed.

Checks at border control

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

If you’re a visitor, your passport must be stamped when you enter or leave the Schengen area (which includes Slovakia). Border guards will use passport stamps to check you haven’t overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for stays in the Schengen area. If your passport was not stamped, border guards will presume you have overstayed the visa-free limit.

If your passport was not stamped, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.

Read about passport stamping if you live in Slovakia .

At border control in Slovakia, you may also need to:

• show a return or onward ticket
• show you have enough money for your stay
• show proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel booking confirmation or proof of address for a second home

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area (including Slovakia) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

as a tourist

to visit family or friends

to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events

for short-term studies or training

If you’re travelling to Slovakia and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

To stay longer (for example, to work, study or for business), you must meet the Slovak government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Slovak Embassy in the UK .

If you stay in Slovakia with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Applying for a visa

Fill in the visa application form and book an appointment to attend the embassy in person using the online visa application service for Slovakia .

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Slovakia guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Slovakia. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Registering with the police

Foreign nationals visiting Slovakia must report where they’re staying in Slovakia at their nearest Foreigners Police Department. If you are staying at a hotel, the hotel will do this for you. If you are in private accommodation, you must notify the police by letter, email or in person within 3 working days of your arrival.

If you plan to stay in Slovakia for a longer period, you must register formally. Visit the website of the Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic (in Slovak) for more information.

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U.S. reissues Level 2 travel warning for Germany. Here’s what you need to know before your next trip

• Updated: May. 04, 2024, 10:10 a.m. |
• Published: May. 04, 2024, 10:00 a.m.

The U.S. State Department has reissued a Level 2 travel advisory for Germany due to fears of terrorism. AP

• Katherine Rodriguez | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

The U.S. State Department has reissued a Level 2 travel advisory for Germany due to fears of terrorism.

The State Department issued the advisory on Wednesday, ranking the travel advisory on a scale of two out of four. This means that those traveling to an area must “exercise increased caution.”

“Terrorists may attack with little or no warning,” the State Department noted.

The agency added that terrorists could target tourism and transportation hubs, as well as shopping destinations, hotels, clubs, restaurants, local government facilities and major events.

The State Department noted on its website that for those who do decide to travel to Germany, travelers should pay attention to their surroundings , follow the instructions of local authorities, be aware of the latest breaking news in the area and adjust your plans, if necessary. The organization also urges travelers to Germany to create a contingency plan for emergency situations as well as sign up for the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive alerts and make it easier for the State Department to locate you in case of an emergency.

The U.S. Department of State has issued several travel warnings this year with those most recently centered around the Caribbean.

One was a Level 4 “do not travel” warning against traveling to the country of Haiti due to kidnappings and gang violence.

Another warning from the State Department cautioned travelers to “reconsider travel” to the country of Jamaica after 65 people were murdered in one month.

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Safety tips from the US government for Americans traveling to Mexico

A travel advisory for the country has been in effect since late august 2023, by dana williams • published may 4, 2024 • updated on may 4, 2024 at 5:24 pm.

The U.S. Department of State has been cautioning Americans to reconsider travel to Baja California, the region of Mexico, where four bodies were recently found .

The warning is part of a travel advisory for the country that has been in effect since late August 2023. According to the department’s website, “violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico.”

It also adds that because U.S. government employees are restricted or prohibited from going to certain areas in Mexico, it makes it difficult for them to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens who might need it.

However, they shared tips for Americans who travel to the region against their warning:

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• Keep friends and family informed of your travel plans. 
• If separating from a group, share your GPS location with a friend. 
• If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi’s number and/or plate and send it to a friend. 
• Use toll roads when you can and do not drive alone or at night. 
• Be extra cautious when visiting local bars, nightclubs or casinos. 
• Do not show any signs of wealth (i.e. jewelry, etc.)
• Be vigilant around banks and ATMs.

The department also suggests enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program .

For more information on the travel advisory, click here .

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They said her husband drowned snorkeling, but she saw him walk to shore. What happened?

A Michigan woman and her family are suing a Maui resort , the Hawaiian Tourism Authority, and the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau after her husband died while snorkeling . She doesn’t believe it was a drowning. 

Patricia and Ray Johnson, along with four friends, arrived at the Fairmont Kea Lani on Maui on the evening of Feb. 23, 2022, with plans to visit multiple islands over the course of several weeks. This was the couple’s sixth time in Hawaii, and they had snorkeled the Hawaiian waters many times in the past, Patricia told USA TODAY. 

On the morning of Feb. 25, some of the travelers, including Ray, went snorkeling around Wailea Beach, which fronts the resort, while Patricia opted to walk a trail that overlooks the beach. “I looked out, and I saw my husband and my friends or people out there,” she told USA TODAY. “I’m waving at him, and it hits me.” Patricia saw what looked like other snorkelers helping Ray. 

She hurried down to the beach, but “things deteriorated quickly.” At first, Ray had his head above water and was returning to the beach, but then the 64-year-old fell onto his back with his head “snapped back at one point” and had to be pulled in. “I knew he was gone,” she said. 9-1-1 was called, but medical professionals failed to resuscitate Ray. 

The autopsy report called Ray’s death an accidental drowning, which Patricia doesn’t believe. 

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“I was watching him come in, how could he be drowning?” According to her friends who were snorkeling with him, Ray was talking and also diving down under the water. At one point, he came up and said, “You gotta help me, I’m having trouble breathing,” and that’s when he decided to head back to shore. “I don’t think when people are drowning in a conditional manner, you’re going to be conversing,” she said.

What to do in Hawaii? Locals weigh in on if these popular spots are worth the hype

By a landslide, the leading cause of death for Hawaii tourists is drowning. And of ocean drownings for residents and visitors, the majority occur when snorkeling. While the ocean is powerful and unpredictable, some advocates, including the Johnsons, are trying to bring attention to a lesser-known medical condition that specifically poses risks to snorkelers and hasn’t gotten much attention over the years: Rapid Onset Pulmonary Edema (ROPE). 

The Johnson family believes ROPE is the real cause of Ray’s death, and the lawsuit alleges that Hawaii travel entities have failed to educate the public on ROPE, resulting in “an important public health concern,” according to the complaint filed in the Circuit Court of the First Circuit in the State of Hawaii in February 2024. The case should begin the fact-discovery process this week.

The Hawaiian Tourism Authority, Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau and Fairmont Kea Lani declined to comment on the lawsuit. 

“I would like to see warnings out there,” Patricia told USA TODAY. “I truly believe my husband would still be here if we’d been warned.” 

How is snorkeling dangerous?

Breathing through a snorkel tube is similar to pinching your nose and breathing in through your mouth. The resistance is immediate. ROPE occurs when the negative pressure on the lungs ends up sucking bodily fluids out of the capillaries and into the airways, according to Dr. Raj Dasgupta , a California-based pulmonologist. 

“That snorkel resistance to airflow,” he said. “They want to breathe in but they have to breathe through that straw.”

Once fluid is in the lungs, it becomes difficult to breathe and people can experience hypoxia, or a lack of sufficient oxygen. “You slowly become weak then into a loss of consciousness,” Dr. Dasgupta said. Underlying health conditions such as heart and lung disease also increase someone’s predisposed risk for ROPE, he said.

If a person begins to feel shortness of breath, they may panic, causing more exertion, which can be life-threatening if they’re already suffering from a lack of oxygen, Dr. Dasgupta said. 

Drowning by ROPE is “fundamentally different” than typical drowning when people are aspirating water or submerged and often showing signs of distress, the complaint said.

A lack of public awareness

In October 2017, after California woman – and avid swimmer and snorkeler – Nancy Peacock died while snorkeling in calm waters off the coast of Hawaii Island in a full-face mask and no signs of struggle, the Hawaii State Department created the Snorkeling Safety Sub-Committee to “address public concern about snorkel-related drownings.”

In a Snorkeling Safety Study led by the sub-committee, 50 different snorkels were tested, and the experts examined non-fatal and fatal drownings. The interim report released in July 2020 concluded that “ROPE-induced hypoxia is a factor in fatal and non-fatal snorkel drownings.” The study also had a survey conducted at Oahu’s most popular snorkeling spot, Hanauma Bay, but only 36 participants – mostly locals – were interviewed due to the islands being closed to travel during the pandemic. 

The high altitude from air travel impacting someone’s lungs may be a contributing factor, but there wasn’t enough evidence in the study to confirm this. Since getting to Hawaii requires at least a five-hour flight, it’s possible that fatigue and stress from flying could play a role in someone’s risk of drowning by ROPE. 

The Hawaiian Tourism Authority funded the study to “develop appropriate safety messages.” However, as of April 2024, there have not been any public-facing messages on any of the official Hawaii tourism websites. Information cards have been passed out to most Kauai and Oahu tour boat operators, the subcommittee said. Although the study is preliminary and not robust in terms of participants and even calls for further investigation, it is the only one to explore ROPE in snorkelers so far.

“Why aren’t we in Hawaii letting people know?” said Jay Stuemke, an Oahu-based attorney who filed the complaint on the Johnsons’ behalf. “Pamphlets in rooms, apps, websites, in-room videos, all types of mechanisms to warn people. It’s an easy enough thing to do. We believe had they done that, Ray would still be alive today as well as many other people.” 

Snorkeling safety tips

• Always snorkel with a buddy, and if you can’t swim, don’t snorkel
• Choose a snorkel with a wide opening and no constrictions in the mouthpiece
• Learn to use the snorkel device before venturing out into water that’s too deep to stand in
• If you feel shortness of breath, stay calm, remove the snorkel and get out of the water immediately, said Dr. Dasgupta

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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House and Senate negotiate bill to help FAA add more air traffic controllers and safety inspectors

FILE - A Federal Aviation Administration sign hangs in the tower at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, March 16, 2017. Congressional negotiators have agreed on a $105 billion bill designed to improve the safety of air travel after a series of close calls between planes at the nation’s airports. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)

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Congressional negotiators have agreed on a $105 billion bill designed to improve the safety of air travel after a series of close calls between planes at the nation’s airports.

House and Senate lawmakers said Monday that the bill will increase the number of air traffic controllers and require the Federal Aviation Administration to use new technology designed to prevent collisions between planes on runways.

Lawmakers agreed to prohibit airlines from charging extra for families to sit together, and they tripled maximum fines for airlines that violate consumer laws. However, they left out other consumer protections proposed by the Biden administration.

The bill was negotiated by Republicans and Democrats who lead the House and Senate committees overseeing the FAA, which has been under scrutiny since it approved Boeing jets that were quickly involved in two deadly crashes in 2018 and 2019. The legislation will govern FAA operations for the next five years.

The Senate could vote on the 1,069-page measure as early as next week, but it could be delayed if senators try to attach unrelated bills. FAA is operating under a temporary authorization that expires May 10, and Congress might need to pass another extension.

The House approved its version of the bill last year, but a Senate committee approved a different version in February after fights over several provisions, including ones dealing with the training and retirement age of pilots.

In the end, negotiators dropped a House provision raising the mandatory retirement age for airline pilots to 67; it will remain at 65. Both chambers had already sidestepped a highly charged issue by narrowly rejecting a proposal backed by small airlines to let aspiring pilots count more time spent in simulators instead of flying planes toward reaching minimum experience standards.

The FAA has a shortage of about 3,000 air traffic controllers nationwide. Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., chair of the Senate Commerce Committee and one of the negotiators, said the final bill shows “that aviation safety and stronger consumer standards are a big priority .... It is also the first major upgrade to air traffic controller hiring in decades.”

One of the most contentious issues in the bill turns out to be a provision that would allow an additional 10 flights per day longer than 1,250 miles to and from Reagan Washington National Airport, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. Delta Air Lines and some Western lawmakers wanted to add 56 flights. The House said no, but a Senate committee approved 10 flights, or five round trips — and that made it into the final bill.

“We were pushing for more, but if we get five, we’ll take five,” Delta CEO Ed Bastian said in an interview this month.

United Airlines — which dominates less-convenient Dulles Airport, 25 miles west of the nation’s capital — opposed the idea. Lawmakers from Virginia and Maryland said Monday they were “deeply frustrated” at the provision, arguing that National is already too busy. They pointed to a close call there between two planes earlier in April, calling it a “flashing red warning light.”

Lawmakers in both chambers rejected a proposal from consumer groups to give state officials power to regulate airlines, but the administration separately cut a deal letting 15 mostly Democratic states help the U.S. Transportation Department enforce federal consumer-protection rules.

Some other provisions in the bill:

— The Transportation Department will create a “dashboard” so consumers can compare seat sizes on all the airlines, but lawmakers stopped short of setting a minimum size.

— The bill would write into law that airlines must pay a refund to customers for flight delays – at three hours for a domestic flight and six for an international one. The Transportation Department issued a similar regulation last week, but laws are harder for future administrations to change.

— When airlines offer travel credits instead of a refund, the credits must be valid for least five years.

— Maximum civil penalties against airlines that violate consumer-protection laws would triple, from $25,000 to $75,000.

— Starting next year, new airline planes must have cockpit voice recorders capable of saving 25 hours of audio, up from the current two hours, to help investigators. This won’t apply retroactively to planes already in use.

— Requires the FAA to increase oversight of aircraft repair shops in other countries, a key demand in recent years by U.S. airline unions, which claim the foreign shops aren’t as safe.

— Requires the FAA to create a new system for tracking and locating high-altitude balloons. This became an issue in February 2023 when a Chinese balloon drifted across the entire U.S. The military shot it down off South Carolina, but not before Secretary of State Antony Blinken canceled a high-level visit to China in response to the incident.

Mary Clare Jalonick in Washington contributed to this report. Koenig reported from Dallas.

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10 TikTok-approved Packing Essentials That Flight Attendants Won’t Travel Without — From $10

Best of all, everything is under $50.

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Flight attendants, by nature, are highly seasoned travelers, and are therefore brimming with untapped knowledge on how to make your time in the sky (and on the road) all the more enjoyable. Thankfully, many of them have taken to TikTok to share their treasure trove of tips and tricks for optimized packing — and we took notes.

We dove into flight attendant TikTok to discover exactly what they bring along when prioritizing comfort, functionality, and safety, and many of their top picks are available at Amazon. From supportive travel pillows and cushions , to portable door locks and even a compact humidifier for dry nights, these are the 10 products airline workers won’t travel without — all under $50.

Clarks Calla Ease Loafer Flat

Comfy shoes are pivotal for long travel days, and nobody knows this to be true more than flight attendants. If you’re looking for a slightly more stylish option than your favorite pair of running sneakers, take it from one airline worker on TikTok that these cushy loafers from Clarks are a top-notch selection for spending extended time on your feet thanks to the foam-cushioned insoles, a long-lasting 100 percent leather exterior, and thick, sturdy outsoles. Plus, right now you can score these shoes for up to 58 percent off in one of the four neutral colors.

Zzrui Upgraded Portable Door Stopper Wedge Alarm

Whether you’re staying in a hotel alone or with a group of friends, it never hurts to come prepared with additional safety measures, and flight attendants swear that this portable door wedge alarm is exactly what you need to feel secure. Simply turn it on and place the device against the door before you head to sleep, and if any pressure is applied it will emit a blaring noise to scare away intruders. One flight attendant shared that they prefer to use one for the primary door of their room and another for any potential adjoining rooms.

HotLogic Mini Portable Electric Lunch Box

It’s no secret that the food in airports isn’t necessarily top notch. To avoid paying for overpriced food, flight attendants on TikTok rave about the HotLogic lunch box, a portable oven that heats up pre-packed meals or dinner. You can easily stow it in your carry-on or hotel room without having to turn to a cheap microwave that won’t evenly heat your food. And not only has it earned a stamp of approval from countless airline workers, but it has also racked up more than 32,800 five-star ratings at Amazon after travelers revealed that it “changed” their “layover eating life.”

AceMining Portable Door Lock

This best-selling safety device has made it into numerous TikToks from flight attendants who swear by the added protection it provides to hotel room doors, and for just $15, it’s a no-brainer addition to your carry-on the next time you travel. The compact lock is easy to use: Just close your door around the metal attachment and insert the second piece into the frame once the door is closed. Not only does this act as additional security, but it also stops housekeeping from entering if you’re hoping to get some extra shut eye in the morning. It’s durable, packable, and well-suited for a wide range of doors — so long as they open inwards.

Jisulife Mini Portable Humidifier

Air travel can be incredibly drying to the skin (especially during long-haul flights), but this portable humidifier is here to transform your next hotel stay — and flight attendants swear by it . The slim and packable device offers up to seven hours of use thanks to its rechargeable battery, and it instantly adds moisture to the air when placed into any cup of water. It’s quiet, easy to use, and a game-changer for both your skin and sinuses.

Twelve South AirFly SE Bluetooth Wireless Transmitter

Gone are the days of using airline-issued earbuds with the help of the flight attendant-approved AirFly Bluetooth Wireless Transmitter. This pocket-sized device can be plugged into your plane seat and connects to up to two pairs of wireless headphones at once, eliminating the unnecessary tangle of cords while allowing you to watch a movie with your seatmate. You can easily control the volume directly from the device, and it even boasts more than 20 hours of battery life on a single charge. It’s really no wonder that flight attendants love it for longer flights when they’re off duty.

Tessan Power Strip 

There’s generally a finite number of outlets available in any given hotel room, so one flight attendant on TikTok recommended this compact power strip as a simple solution to ensure that every device has access to a charge. They shared that they love being able to “plug everything in in one spot” so they don’t have to “worry about finding plugs all over the room.” And with three outlets and three USB ports, everything from your laptop to your e-reader can stay fully charged at all times. Plus, the extension cord provides easy access to hard-to-reach plugs.

J Pillow Travel Pillow

Nothing makes sleeping on a flight more difficult than your head continuously lolling around, which is why flight attendants point to the thoughtfully designed J-Pillow as their favorite hack for restful sleep. This pillow gets tucked around the back of your neck much like a traditional travel pillow, while under-chin support adds another layer of comfort and security for longer trips. It keeps your head, neck, and chin well-cushioned so you won’t awaken with discomfort or stiffness once you touch down. Plus, it comes with a convenient case that can be snapped onto your luggage or tucked into your carry-on bag. 

Ergonomic Innovations Donut Pillow

Sitting for long hours during an international flight is never going to be truly comfortable, but one flight attendant promises that this memory foam donut pillow is the best way to upgrade your experience without splurging on a first class ticket. This best-selling cushion is designed to alleviate pressure from your tailbone and back, resulting in a significantly more pleasant travel day. The donut shape evenly distributes body weight, leading to less need for adjustment throughout your flight, and it’s so lightweight that you’ll hardly notice it in your carry-on. You may not be able to use it during take off, but when you’re high in the sky, this pillow will make even the firmest airplane seats feel cushy. 

Gasince Handheld Mini Fan

gasince-handheld-fan-mini-fan-90cfa4a3c28546159f8077d79775e571.jpg

https://www.amazon.com/Gasince-Handheld-Personal-Rechargeable-8-13hours/dp/B08TGZPD4C  

No matter what time of year it is, you should always be prepared for the possibility that your airplane cabin is much warmer than you’d prefer. Because of this, flight attendants suggest always packing a small handheld fan for your travels — in particular, this rechargeable option that’s fitted with a stable base that sits right on your tray table. The portable device boasts up to 13 hours of running time on a single charge so you can even use it overnight in toasty hotel rooms. Plus, you can choose from three speeds to keep you comfortable on the go. 

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