Where to go on a trip in Bratislava? If you feel like running into the woods around Bratislava, we bring you tips for the trips, where you can combine hiking with visiting an abandoned rocket base, or where you will be crossing the Danube river on foot, or to camp directly next to the historical watermills. Bratislava and its surroundings offer plenty of excursions into nature and unique corners. But if you just feel like taking a quiet walk in Bratislava, here are some tips on where to go for a stroll right in Bratislava. You’ll enjoy the beautiful views, nature, fresh air and atmosphere of Bratislava’s hiking trails.
1. Missile base on the top of Devínska Kobyla
2. Železná studienka – most popular city park in Slovakia
3. Dunajské luhy – very special face of Danube river
4. Little Danube river – rafting for all
5. Červený kameň fortress – unique exhibitions
6. Pajštún
7. Lookout tower on Velká Homola
8. Záruby
9. Vysoká
10. Vápenná
11. Sandberg
12. Rača Vineyards
13. Dvořák’s Embankment
14. Horský Park
15. Bratislava Castle
Tips on Where to go on a trip in the area:
16. M.R. Štefánik Memorial
Definitely one of the most interesting trips around Bratislava. Whether it’s pleasant walks in any season, cycling or running, there is something for everyone. The border stones that separated the first Slovak state from the Third Reich and an abandoned missile base from the Cold War are a specialty of Devínska Kobyla. At the highest point of Devínská Kobyla there is also a newly opened observation tower where you can find amazing views, besides Slovakia, also to Austria, Hungary and the Czech Republic.
The most visited park in Bratislava conveniently accessible by car, public transport, bicycle or on foot. Around the 15th century, a system of mills was situated near the local ponds. Today, Železná studnička is an ideal place for walking, jogging, cycling, simple hiking, spending free time with friends at a barbecue, or sports activities on landscaped playgrounds. Železná studnička is also the starting point of many hiking and cycling tours to the forests of the Little Carpathians.
The Protected Landscape Area Dunajské Luhy is a place you will never forget for its uniqueness and character. It can be found along the main course of the Danube and is characterised by a number of dead branches, marshes and peat bogs. From our own experience, we recommend the route from the village of Bodíky along the tourist trail to the Gabčíkovo dam, which leads directly through some of the Danube’s arms that you literally have to wade through. Sounds fun, does not it?
The Little Danube river is nowadays the most popular rafting destination in Slovakia. It forms the largest river island in Europe, and the surroundings of the Little Danube river are mostly meadows and fields, which are, however, separated from the stream itself by a few tens of meters wide strip of floodplain forest. The most interesting section for the rafting is considered to be from the village of Zálesie to the confluence with the near village of Topoľníky. Also, there is a possibility to sail from Bratislava crossing the whole stream, as multi-day rafting, during which it is possible to camp near the unique wooden water mills in Jelka and Tomášikovo.
The fortress from the 13th century is unique for its preservation and number of unique exhibitions. Road and marked hiking trails to the fortress start from the villages of Častá and Píla. In interiors, there is a unique exposition, focused on the development of the residential culture of the nobility and burghers, so you will find beautiful aristocratic salons, luxury bedrooms, a huge dining room and also a knight’s hall. Extensive castle cellars are built in ancient underground spaces. Červený Kameň Castle is known by many because of many movies filmed there. For example Dragonheart (1996), Fantaghirò (1991) or the famous Czech movie The Incredibly Sad Princess (1968).
Photo: matejkovac_photo
A trip to the ruins of the 13th-century Pajštún Castle is a must for all Bratislava residents and at the same time a relaxing walk suitable for families with children. We recommend starting at the church in the village of Borinka (235 m), where you can park your car, and continue north along the red tourist trail. Longer and perhaps slightly more interesting routes to the castle lead directly from Bratislava.
Photo:@naspohladnasvet
The modern, newly opened lookout tower on the top of Veľká Homola is a very pleasant and easy trip. The comfortable route leads from the Zochova chata stop along the red sign and takes about an hour. We definitely recommend combining it with a visit to Modra and its legendary wine cellars.
The highest peak of the Little Carpathians with a height of 768 m.n.m. from which you can enjoy a magnificent view of the surroundings. You can safely take this trip even in winter when the peak has a truly extraordinary atmosphere. It is possible to ascend the mountain by the yellow tourist route from the Smolenice train station, the blue one from the centre of Smolenice, or along the ridge by the red trail, which leads from the ruins of the Ostrý Kameň castle, along the Buková water reservoir.
Due to its relatively remote location, this peak is less visited, which can be a great advantage for many. At the top, after a hike of about two hours, you will be surprised by a magnificent view. The starting point is either Zochova Chata or the village of Kuchyňa. Please note that the last kilometres lead up a rather steep hill.
Vápenná is considered by many (including us) to be the most beautiful peak of the Little Carpathians, which is specific for its small 5m high lookout tower and magnificent view. The most popular route leads from Plavecký Podhradie along the yellow trail. The shorter but quite challenging route is the red trail from the Solosnicka valley. If you have to choose only one peak of the Little Carpathians to visit, it should be Vápenná.
And finally, we have some tips for you where to go for a walk right in Bratislava:
Interested in history? If you like geology, discovering natural beauty 🦎 or would like to test your orientation in a stone maze, 🪨 Sandberg is the right place for you. Besides, it’s a great place to walk and discover fossils. Sandberg is a unique palaeontological site, famous for its fossils and sandstone formations that were formed millions of years ago. The landscape is full of sandstone cliffs and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
How about a walk around the vineyards in Rača? We think it’s an excellent way to spend a weekend. You can reach Rača on foot from Koliba via Ahoj. Or you can also take a 5-minute train ride to the Bratislavské Vinohrady stop or tram number 3, which leaves directly from the city. You shouldn’t get lost, but if you’re new to the city, you’d better make sure your Google maps work properly beforehand.
If you prefer to stroll right in the city, try the walk from the New SNP Bridge (or even from the Old Bridge, if you’re in good shape) to Lafranconi. You will enjoy the views of the Danube, Bratislava Castle and River Park. If you feel tired, stop by the RIVERBANK restaurant, where Jaroslav Žídek, one of the best chefs in Slovakia and the Czech Republic, will prepare some specialties to your taste.
The Horský park is a place where you can come and take a break from the busy city life and recharge your batteries in nature. It is located just a few minutes from the city centre, which can be reached by trolleybus 207 from Hodžovo Square in the direction of Železná studienka. We promise you’ll love it there.
One of the places you should not avoid at any time of the year is Bratislava Castle. You can walk around the Old Town, enjoy its atmosphere and chat with friends. Bratislava Castle can be reached by taking the stairs that lead from the SNP Bridge to the top of the castle, past the historic buildings. If you happen to get out of breath in the middle of the “climb” , or if you just want to enjoy the moment and the view with a glass of wine in your hand, you might consider stopping at one of the bars along the way with a beautiful view and an intimate atmosphere.
The M.R. Štefánik Memorial is not located in Bratislava, but it is definitely worth a trip. Not only will you teach your little ones something about the history of Slovakia, but you will also enjoy a nice trip full of fun and adventure!
The Milan Rastislav Štefánik Memorial is located on the Bradlo hill at an altitude of 543 metres above sea level between the town of Brezová pod Bradlom and the village of Košariská and is the final resting place of General Dr. Milan Rastislav Štefánik – scientist, soldier, diplomat, one of the key political figures of Slovakia.
🚴♀️🚵♂️ It is a perfect place for cyclists, picnics in the open air, but also for those who love watching planes directly overhead.
Whatever trip you decide to take, we hope you enjoy it. Have a nice trip!
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