After immersing yourself in the things to do in Prešov, from its historic architecture to the vibrant cultural scene, day trips from Prešov present a wonderful opportunity to explore Eastern Slovakia’s rich heritage and natural beauty. These excursions take you through the heart of the Carpathian Mountains, to ancient castles, and into the traditions of Slovakian villages, offering a fuller picture of the region’s charm.
Venturing beyond Prešov, you discover the extensive array of things to do in Slovakia, where the High Tatras beckon with their majestic peaks, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Spiš Castle unfold their historical narratives. Each journey from Prešov is a gateway to experiencing Slovakia’s diverse landscapes and deep-rooted culture.
Choosing where to stay in Prešov is crucial for travelers aiming to experience both the city’s lively atmosphere and the tranquility of its surrounding countryside. The right accommodation serves as a comfortable base for exploring Prešov’s sights and the adventures that lie beyond, ensuring a memorable visit to this captivating part of Slovakia.
Discover Best Day Trips from Prešov, Slovakia
1. Bardejov, Slovakia
Bardejov, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval town center and historic buildings like the Basilica of St. Egidius. This charming town offers a journey back in time with its Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
Distance: Approximately 45 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: UNESCO World Heritage Site, Basilica of St. Egidius, medieval town center
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Basilica of St. Egidius: $5
- Bardejov Spa: $10
- Town Museum: $4
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Bardejov Town Square, City Walls, Bardejov Spa
Travel Tip: Visit the Bardejov Spa, a few kilometers outside the town, for a relaxing experience in thermal waters.
2. High Tatras, Slovakia
The High Tatras, Slovakia’s premier mountain range, offer breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and ski resorts. Whether it’s for mountaineering in summer or skiing in winter, this destination is a nature lover’s paradise.
Distance: Approximately 110 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Štrbské Pleso, hiking trails, Lomnický štít cable car
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Cable Car to Lomnický štít: $30
- Tatra National Park: Free
- Štrbské Pleso: Free
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Popradské Pleso, Lomnický štít, Gerlachovský štít
Travel Tip: Try the cable car ride to Lomnický štít for spectacular views of the Tatra landscape.
3. Kosice, Slovakia
Kosice, the second-largest city in Slovakia, is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, including the stunning St. Elisabeth Cathedral and the historic city center. The city offers a blend of historical attractions, cafes, and art galleries.
Distance: Approximately 35 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: St. Elisabeth Cathedral, historical city center, Košice Mikluš Prison
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- St. Elisabeth Cathedral: $5
- Košice Mikluš Prison: $6
- East Slovak Museum: $7
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Hlavná Street, St. Elisabeth Cathedral, Urban Tower
Travel Tip: Explore the Košice Mikluš Prison for a unique glimpse into medieval punishment and torture methods.
4. Levoča, Slovakia
Levoča is a historic town famous for its beautiful old town square, Renaissance buildings, and the highest wooden altar in the world, located in St. James Church. It’s a picturesque town steeped in history.
Distance: Approximately 60 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: St. James Church, historic town square, Renaissance architecture
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 the nearby Spiš Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe.
5. Slovak Paradise National Park, Slovakia
Slovak Paradise National Park is known for its incredible landscapes, featuring canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It’s an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy Slovakia’s natural beauty.
Distance: Approximately 65 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Hiking trails, waterfalls, Suchá Belá gorge
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- National Park Entrance: $5
- Suchá Belá Gorge: Free
- Dobšinská Ice Cave: $10
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Suchá Belá, Hornád Canyon, Kláštorisko
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the hike through the Suchá Belá gorge, but be prepared for ladders and chains along the route.
6. Štrbské Pleso, Slovakia
Štrbské Pleso is a picturesque mountain lake in the High Tatras, popular for walking trails around the lake and opportunities for high-altitude hiking. In winter, it’s a sought-after destination for cross-country skiing.
Distance: Approximately 120 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Mountain lake, high-altitude hiking, cross-country skiing
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Štrbské Pleso: Free
- Ski Pass: $25 (winter season)
- Tatra National Park: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Štrbské Pleso, High Tatras, Tatra Mountains
Travel Tip: Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake for stunning mountain reflections on a clear day.
7. Spišský Hrad (Spiš Castle), Slovakia
Spiš Castle, one of the largest in Central Europe, offers a majestic view of the surrounding area. Its ruins provide a glimpse into medieval life, and the castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Distance: Approximately 70 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour 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: 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: Visit the nearby Spišská Kapitula, often referred to as the “Slovak Vatican,” for its religious significance and architecture.
8. Zlata Idka, Slovakia
Zlata Idka, a quaint village surrounded by nature, is known for its peaceful environment and the nearby Kojšovská Hoľa peak, which provides excellent hiking and skiing opportunities. It’s a great spot for those seeking tranquility and outdoor activities.
Distance: Approximately 40 km
Travel Time: About 40 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Quaint village, Kojšovská Hoľa peak, hiking and skiing
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Kojšovská Hoľa: Free
- Ski Pass: $20 (winter season)
- Hiking Trails: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Kojšovská Hoľa, Village Views, Local Ski Slopes
Travel Tip: In the winter, try the local ski slopes, which are less crowded and offer a more intimate skiing experience compared to larger resorts.
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Sources:
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