After enjoying the vibrant cultural scene and historical landmarks that make up the things to do in Košice, day trips from Košice open the door to Slovakia’s rich tapestry of natural beauty and heritage sites. Venturing beyond the city’s Gothic cathedrals and colorful streets, you’ll find castles, national parks, and traditional villages, each telling its own story of Slovakia’s past and present.
Exploring further from Košice, you encounter the diverse array of things to do in Slovakia, from hiking in the Slovak Paradise National Park to discovering the underground wonders of the Ochtinská Aragonite Cave. Each journey outside the city not only broadens your appreciation for the country’s natural landscapes but also deepens your understanding of its cultural richness.
Choosing where to stay in Košice can greatly influence your experience, providing a comfortable base from which to explore the city’s historic charm and the surrounding region’s attractions. A well-located accommodation ensures that the best of Košice and its day trip destinations are within easy reach, blending urban exploration with natural adventure.
Discover Best Day Trips from Košice, Slovakia
1. Spiš Castle, Slovakia
Spiš Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe, offers a rich history dating back to the 12th century. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and provides a fascinating glimpse into medieval life.
Distance: Approximately 80 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 10 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: One of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe, UNESCO World Heritage site
Best Time to Visit: April to October
Entrance Fees:
- Spiš Castle: $8
- Museum Exhibits: Included with Castle Admission
- Parking: $2
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Castle ruins, surrounding countryside, panoramic views
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle ruins and the surrounding area, and don’t forget to bring a camera for the stunning panoramic views.
2. Bardejov, Slovakia
Bardejov, a well-preserved medieval town, is known for its historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town boasts Gothic architecture, a beautiful town square, and the ancient St. Egidius Church.
Distance: Approximately 80 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Medieval town, UNESCO World Heritage site, St. Egidius Church
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- St. Egidius Church: $4
- Bardejov Museum: $5
- Bardejov Spa: $10 (Spa entry)
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Town Square, Basilica of St. Egidius, Bardejov Spa
Travel Tip: Visit the Bardejov Spa, just a few kilometers outside the town, known for its healing waters and beautiful parks.
3. Tokaj Wine Region, Slovakia
The Tokaj Wine Region, famous for its sweet Tokaji Aszú wine, offers vineyard tours and wine tastings. The region is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is perfect for wine enthusiasts.
Distance: Approximately 70 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Vineyards, wine tastings, UNESCO World Heritage site
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Entrance Fees:
- Vineyard Tours: $15-$25
- Wine Tastings: $10-$20 (varies by winery)
- Wine Museum: $6
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Vineyards, Tokaj Wine Cellars, Bodrog River
Travel Tip: Plan to visit multiple vineyards and try the unique Tokaji wine varieties, but remember to arrange transportation or a designated driver.
4. Slovak Paradise National Park, Slovakia
Slovak Paradise National Park, known for its extraordinary natural beauty, offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking through gorges and climbing ladders next to waterfalls. The park is famous for its trails like Suchá Belá and Hornád Canyon.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Hiking, gorges, waterfalls, Suchá Belá trail
Best Time to Visit: April to October
Entrance Fees:
- Park Entrance: $2
- Suchá Belá Trail: $3
- Parking: $3
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Hornád Canyon, Tomášovský Výhľad, Suchá Belá Gorge
Travel Tip: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots and bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to tackle the more challenging trails.
5. High Tatras, Slovakia
The High Tatras, the highest range in the Carpathian Mountains, provide excellent opportunities for hiking, skiing, and mountain climbing. The area is known for its picturesque landscapes and alpine lakes.
Distance: Approximately 120 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Hiking, skiing, alpine lakes, Popradské Pleso
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- National Park Entrance: Free
- Cable Car to Lomnický Štít: $30
- Parking: $4
Budget: Approximately $30-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Popradské Pleso, Lomnický Štít, Štrbské Pleso
Travel Tip: Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before your trip, especially if you’re planning to hike in higher elevations.
6. Levoca, Slovakia
Levoca is a historic town recognized for its Renaissance architecture, fortifications, and the St. James Church, which houses the tallest wooden altar in the world. The town’s center is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Distance: Approximately 90 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Renaissance architecture, St. James Church, UNESCO World Heritage site
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- St. James Church: $4
- Levoca Museum: $5
- Town Hall: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Town Square, Renaissance Houses, Levoca City Walls
Travel Tip: Visit the Levoca Museum, located in the old town hall, to learn more about the town’s rich history.
7. Zemplinska Sirava, Slovakia
Zemplinska Sirava, a large water reservoir, is known as the “Slovak Sea” and is a popular spot for water sports, sunbathing, and fishing. The area has several resorts, camping sites, and beaches.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Water sports, beaches, fishing, resorts
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Entrance Fees:
- Beach Access: Free
- Boat Rental: $10-$20
- Parking: $2
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Lakeside Beaches, Vinianske Lake, Kamenec Beach
Travel Tip: Try local fish dishes at the lakeside restaurants and consider a boat tour to fully enjoy the scenic views of the lake.
8. Miskolc and Lillafured, Hungary
Miskolc and the nearby Lillafured in Hungary offer a mix of cultural and natural attractions, including the Lillafured Palace Hotel, Hanging Gardens, and the Miskolc Cave Bath, a thermal spa within a natural cave.
Distance: Approximately 90 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Lillafured Palace Hotel, Hanging Gardens, Miskolc Cave Bath
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Miskolc Cave Bath: $15
- Palace Hotel Gardens: Free
- Forest Railway: $8
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Hanging Gardens, Lake Hámori, Szinva Waterfall
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to relax in the unique thermal waters of the Miskolc Cave Bath, and bring a swimsuit and towel.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Košice, Slovakia
What are some recommended day trips from Košice?
Recommended day trips from Košice include the Spiš Castle, Slovak Paradise National Park, Tokaj Wine Region, and the historical town of Bardejov.
Is visiting Spiš Castle worth it?
Absolutely! Spiš Castle is one of Central Europe’s largest castle complexes, offering breathtaking views and a deep dive into medieval history. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit.
Can I explore Slovak Paradise National Park in a day?
Yes, Slovak Paradise National Park offers a variety of trails for all levels, including scenic walks and challenging hikes featuring ladders and bridges. It’s an excellent destination for nature lovers.
Are there guided tours to the Tokaj Wine Region from Košice?
Yes, there are guided tours available to the Tokaj Wine Region, famous for its sweet wines. These tours typically include visits to several wineries with tastings and insights into the wine-making process.
What historical sights can I see near Košice?
The area around Košice is rich in history, with sights like the Gothic St. Elisabeth Cathedral in Košice itself, the historic town of Bardejov, and the ruins of Čičva Castle.
Is a trip to Bardejov recommended?
Definitely! Bardejov is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved medieval town center, historic churches, and a unique old town hall. It’s a fascinating day trip from Košice.
Can I visit the High Tatras from Košice?
While it’s a bit further, the High Tatras are accessible for a longer day trip or overnight stay. The region offers stunning mountain landscapes, hiking trails, and the opportunity to visit traditional Slovak villages.
Are there any cultural experiences unique to the Košice region?
The Košice region offers unique cultural experiences like traditional folk festivals, craft workshops, and the opportunity to explore the rich heritage of the Carpathian Germans and Ruthenians in the area.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/kosice-l148934/
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