After soaking in all the things to do in Poprad, from exploring the historical Spišská Sobota to relaxing in the geothermal Aquacity, consider taking day trips from Poprad to discover the enchanting surroundings of the High Tatras. These excursions allow you to experience Slovakia’s pristine natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, extending your adventure beyond the city’s limits.
Beyond Poprad, the vast array of things to do in Slovakia becomes your playground, from hiking in the majestic High Tatras to exploring medieval castles and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Each journey from Poprad is an invitation to delve deeper into the country’s diverse attractions, blending breathtaking natural beauty with historical exploration.
Deciding where to stay in Poprad is crucial for travelers wishing to maximize their exploration of the Tatras and beyond. A strategic location offers not only convenience for local attractions but also ease of access to the best day trips, ensuring a memorable Slovakian adventure from a comfortable and inviting home base.
Discover Best Day Trips from Poprad, Slovakia
1. Spiš Castle, Slovakia
Spiš Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe, offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval history with its vast ruins and museum. Perched on a rocky hilltop, it provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Distance: Approximately 45 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: One of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe, medieval ruins, museum exhibits
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Spiš Castle: $8
- Museum: $5
- Castle Guided Tour: $10
Budget: Approximately $25-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Castle Hill, Spišská Kapitula, Žehra Church
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain around the castle can be uneven and hilly.
2. High Tatras, Slovakia
The High Tatras, Slovakia’s premier mountain range, offer breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and winter sports. The town of Štrbské Pleso, with its iconic mountain lake, is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Distance: Approximately 30 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Štrbské Pleso, hiking trails, cable cars, winter sports
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Štrbské Pleso: Free
- Cable Car to Lomnický štít: $30
- Tatra National Park: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Popradské Pleso, Lomnický štít, Gerlachovský štít
Travel Tip: Check the weather forecast and cable car operation schedules before you go, especially if you plan to hike.
3. Levoča, Slovakia
Levoča is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved Gothic architecture, including the St. James Church with the world’s highest wooden altar. The town’s historic center is a delight to explore.
Distance: Approximately 28 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: St. James Church, historic town center, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- St. James Church: $7
- Town Museum: $4
- Levoča City Walls: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Levoča Main Square, Church of the Holy Spirit, Levoča Hills
Travel Tip: Visit during the annual “Levoča Pilgrimage” or the “Levoča Indian Summer Festival” for a unique cultural experience.
4. Slovak Paradise National Park, Slovakia
Slovak Paradise National Park, known for its lush forests, waterfalls, and unique wooden ladders and walkways, offers some of the most adventurous hiking trails in Slovakia. The park’s highlights include the Suchá Belá gorge and the Dobšinská Ice Cave.
Distance: Approximately 45 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Hiking trails, waterfalls, Suchá Belá gorge, Dobšinská Ice Cave
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- National Park Entrance: $5
- Dobšinská Ice Cave: $10
- Suchá Belá Gorge: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Suchá Belá, Hornád Canyon, Kláštorisko
Travel Tip: Wear waterproof hiking boots, as some trails require walking through streams or wet conditions.
5. Kežmarok, Slovakia
Kežmarok, a charming town with a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, offers attractions like the Kežmarok Castle and the Wooden Articular Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Distance: Approximately 15 km
Travel Time: About 15 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Kežmarok Castle, Wooden Articular Church (UNESCO), historic town square
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Kežmarok Castle: $6
- Wooden Articular Church: Free (Donations welcome)
- Museum Entrance: $4
Budget: Approximately $15-$30 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Castle Park, Town Square, Kežmarok City Walls
Travel Tip: Try to visit on a market day to experience the local culture and crafts.
6. Banská Štiavnica, Slovakia
Banská Štiavnica, a UNESCO-listed town, is nestled within an ancient volcanic landscape and known for its historically significant mining industry. The Old Castle and New Castle offer insights into the town’s rich history.
Distance: Approximately 155 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Old Castle, New Castle, Calvary, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Old Castle: $6
- New Castle: $6
- Calvary: Free
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Calvary Hill, Botanical Garden, Holy Trinity Square
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the “Calvary,” a remarkable Baroque monument complex with chapels dotted on the hillside.
7. Zakopane, Poland
Zakopane, located in Poland, is known for its wooden villas in the Zakopane style, vibrant local culture, and as a gateway to the Tatra Mountains. The bustling Krupówki Street and the Gubałówka Hill Funicular are popular attractions.
Distance: Approximately 90 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Krupówki Street, Gubałówka Hill, Tatra Mountains
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Gubałówka Funicular: $6
- Tatra National Park: $4
- Zakopane Museum: $5
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Morskie Oko, Gubałówka Hill, Krupówki Street
Travel Tip: Enjoy the local highland cheese, Oscypek, and if you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss the opportunity to ski.
8. Liptovský Mikuláš, Slovakia
Liptovský Mikuláš, a gateway to the Low Tatras and Western Tatras, offers a mix of outdoor activities, including the Aquapark Tatralandia and the Demänová Ice Cave.
Distance: Approximately 55 km
Travel Time: About 40 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Aquapark Tatralandia, Demänová Ice Cave, Liptov Village Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Aquapark Tatralandia: $20
- Demänová Ice Cave: $9
- Liptov Village Museum: $7
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Liptovská Mara, Low Tatras, Demänovská Valley
Travel Tip: If you’re interested in Slovak folklore, visit the Liptov Village Museum in Pribylina, near Liptovský Mikuláš.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Poprad, Slovakia
What are some recommended day trips from Poprad?
Recommended day trips from Poprad include the High Tatras with destinations like Štrbské Pleso, Starý Smokovec, and Tatranská Lomnica, as well as the historic town of Kežmarok, the Spiš Castle, and the Slovak Paradise National Park.
Is a visit to the High Tatras worth it from Poprad?
Definitely! The High Tatras offer breathtaking mountain scenery, numerous hiking trails, and the opportunity to visit Slovakias highest peaks and beautiful mountain lakes. It’s a must-see for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Can I explore Spiš Castle from Poprad?
Yes, Spiš Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe, is easily accessible from Poprad. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval history.
Are there guided tours to Slovak Paradise National Park?
Yes, there are guided tours available to Slovak Paradise National Park, known for its stunning gorges, waterfalls, and hiking trails. These tours often include gear and expert guidance through some of the park’s most beautiful and challenging terrains.
What cultural experiences can I have near Poprad?
Near Poprad, you can explore traditional Slovak villages, experience local cuisine, and visit historic churches and castles. The town of Kežmarok and the outdoor museum in Pribylina offer rich cultural experiences and insight into Slovak history.
Is a day trip to the thermal parks near Poprad recommended?
Absolutely! The region around Poprad is famous for its thermal parks like Aquacity Poprad and the Thermal Park Vrbov. These offer relaxing spa experiences, thermal pools, and wellness centers, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Can I visit the Belianska Cave from Poprad?
Yes, the Belianska Cave, located in the Tatra Mountains, is accessible for a day trip from Poprad. It’s one of Slovakia’s most beautiful and most visited caves, known for its impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations.
Are wine tasting tours available in the region around Poprad?
While Poprad itself is more known for its mountainous landscapes than vineyards, the wider region offers opportunities for wine tasting, especially in the Tokaj wine region, which is a bit further but feasible for an ambitious day trip.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/poprad-l32594/
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